Women Unscripted

Chris & Nancy are back with a recap of the FIFA Women’s World Cup—a round up of the highs and lows of a tournament that broke records for number of nations competing and global audience. It was a festival of football, a feast for footie fans and a boost for women’s sport around the world. There were plenty of surprises with some of the giants of the sport among them favorites to lift the trophy who fell by the wayside in the group stages. Ultimately our predictions did not hold up and a new champion was crowned in Stadium Australia when Spain deservedly lifted the trophy after conquering England 1-0 in the final. Nancy was there to watch it all unfold and Chris endured some very early morning starts to watch the games from the US. So what were their takeaways and tournament favorites. Take a listen and relive some of the highlights of the tournament.

Hosts: Chris Stafford & Nancy Gillen
Email: [email protected]
@WiSPSports

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Dive into the vibrant world of contemporary figurative painting with Michele Byrne in this inspiring episode of AART the Podcast. Michele, an acclaimed figurative Plein Air painter, shares her artistic journey, from her early inspirations to the techniques that bring her captivating outdoor scenes to life. Listeners will discover Michele’s unique approach to capturing light, atmosphere, and emotion directly from nature, as she explores the intersection of realism and expression in her art. In this biographical interview, Michele discusses her creative process, challenges, and breakthroughs, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a professional painter devoted to the Plein Air tradition. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, emerging painter, or simply curious about the stories behind the brush, this episode is a rich exploration of artistry, passion, and dedication. Tune in to hear Michele Byrne’s insights on figurative painting, landscape art, outdoor painting techniques, and the inspiration behind her evocative Plein Air works. This episode is perfect for those who love contemporary art, Plein Air painting, and the journey of artists turning vision into vibrant canvas reality.

Keywords:
Michele Byrne, figurative Plein Air painting, Plein Air artist, contemporary figurative painting, landscape painting, outdoor painting, art podcast, AART the Podcast, professional painter interview, artistic process, painting inspiration, plein air techniques, modern landscape art, painting stories.

BIO
Michele Byrne is a figurative Plein Air painter known for her social scenes and palette knife work. Michele is originally an East Coast girl, born in 1959 in Reading, PA, she spent her childhood growing up in the countryside. She was, she says, a tomboy enjoying the outdoors, but her real passion began as a small child drawing and painting, showing an early talent that was recognized by her teachers. Her parents, Sam and Fay, encouraged her artistic leaning and as the third of three children she was encouraged with art classes and given the freedom to follow her passion. At the tender age of eight, Michele decided she loved art so much that she wanted to become an artist. From 1977-1981 she attended Kutztown University in Pennsylvania from where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Communication Design, and Minor in Illustration/Painting. While she only took one class in mechanical drawing it was to prove invaluable in learning perspective, which has helped her with painting buildings. As a graphic designer, Michele made her way to New York but it wasn’t long before she realized she wanted to be her own boss. While marriage and raising a family would take over her life, once she divorced she discovered a freedom to pursue her career as an artist. Michele has held numerous exhibitions and solo shows, winning awards around the U.S. She is also a sought-after instructor offering plein-air workshops both online and in person across the United States, Mexico and Europe. Michele is also the author of two books entitled The Art of Conversation. In 2020, Michele moved to Sante Fe, New Mexico and is an active member of its flourishing art community. She has two sons, Colin and Seamus who have inherited her artistic gene.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]

Michele's website:
https://www.michelebyrne.com/
Instagram @michelebyrneart

Women artists whose work Michele admires:
Ann Gale
Aimee Erickson
Zoe Frank
Mary Cassatt
Berte Morisot
Gene Kloss
Georgia O’Keefe
Elaine De Kooning
Frida Kahlo

Michele’s Playlist
Pink Floyd,
Neil Young and Reggae Music Buddha Bar
Healthy living podcasts
Jay Shetty,
Chase Jarvis,
Eckhart Tolle (newest Fav is Dr. Joe Dispenza on meditation and manifesting what you want into your life)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Join us on AART the Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Vinnie Bagwell, a renowned sculptor and representational-figurative artist. In this biographical interview, Vinnie shares her journey as an accomplished sculptor, exploring the intersections of storytelling, history, and the human form through her remarkable figurative art. Discover how she captures emotion, movement, and cultural narratives in her sculptures, bringing history and identity to life in three dimensions. From her early inspirations to her professional milestones, Vinnie discusses the challenges and triumphs of creating representational sculpture in today’s art world. She offers insights into her creative process, the importance of public art, and her mission to preserve African-American heritage and stories through figurative art. This episode is a must-listen for art enthusiasts, sculptors, collectors, and anyone interested in the transformative power of art. Dive deep into Vinnie Bagwell’s world and learn how sculpture can convey stories that words alone cannot.

Keywords for SEO:
Vinnie Bagwell, sculptor, figurative sculpture, representational art, contemporary sculpture, public art, African-American artist, sculpture interview, art podcast, biographical artist interview, storytelling in art, figurative artist, art inspiration, AART the Podcast.

BIO
American Vinnie Bagwell is a sculptor and representational-figurative artist who has become a pioneer for African American women in her field. Her works of public art have become her raison d’etre as she strives to give a voice to underrepresented and enslaved Africans. Vinnie was born in Yonkers, NY in 1956 and grew up in the Town of Greenburgh with her sister. Her parents, Edward and Viola Bagwell were both artists in their spare time. As a child she showed a gift for drawing and developed a passion for painting in high school. She graduated from Morgan State University in Maryland with a BS in Psychology. Vinnie spent some time in car sales, which she said taught her communications skills. In 1993, she began sculpting completely self taught and with ambition and purpose it wasn’t long before she was making a name for herself. Vinnie’s first public artwork, “The First Lady of Jazz Ella Fitzgerald,” located at the Yonkers Metro-North/Amtrak train station was commissioned in 1996. She has since won numerous public-art commissions and awards around the United States. Connecticut commissioned a seven-foot bronze of Hartford educator Walter “Doc” Hurley, which is the first public artwork of a contemporary African American in the state. In 2012, Vinnie created a 24” bronze, “Liberté,” for the inaugural exhibition at the Freedom Rides Museum in Montgomery, Alabama. She is also a journalist and co-authored the book: “A Study of African-American Life in Yonkers From the Turn of the Century”. Vinnie is the Co-founder, vice president, and executive director of the Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden whose mission is to honor, dignify, and restore the humanity of enslaved Africans in America by transforming them from objects to subjects through art in a public garden in Yonkers. Vinnie lives in Yonkers with her miniature French Bulldog Rio. She has a daughter, Pierre, who is a mid-wife and artist. It was seeing her magnificent 7 foot statue of the abolitionist Sojourner Truth at the entrance to the Walkway Over the Hudson that introduced me to her work.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]

vinniebagwell.com
@vinniebagwell


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Join us on AART the Podcast for an inspiring biographical interview with Ingrid Christensen, the renowned Canadian still life and figurative oil painter. In this episode, Ingrid shares her artistic journey, exploring her passion for oil painting, her techniques in still life and figurative art, and the stories behind her most captivating works. Listeners will gain a rare insight into her creative process, from early influences to her evolution as a contemporary painter. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an aspiring painter, or simply curious about the mind of a dedicated artist, this episode offers an intimate look into Ingrid’s world of Canadian fine art, oil painting techniques, and figurative expression. Discover how she balances tradition with modern influences and how her work resonates with collectors and galleries worldwide. Tune in to learn about Ingrid Christensen’s artistic philosophy, her approach to composition, color, and light, and the inspiring lessons she has learned along her creative path. Perfect for fans of contemporary painting, art interviews, and artist biographies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the visual arts.

Keywords:
Ingrid Christensen, Canadian painter, oil painting, still life painting, figurative art, contemporary Canadian artist, painting techniques, art interview, artist biography, fine art, visual arts, art podcast, AART the Podcast

BIO
Ingrid Christensen is a Canadian still life and figurative oil painter. Ingrid was born in 1964 in Golden, British Columbia—a small town in the mountains in western Canada. She is the third of four children with an older sister and between two brothers. Ingrid’s parents, John and Ella Anderson, were German immigrants who arrived in Canada after WWII and eventually made their way to running a motel. As a child, Ingrid was not exposed to the art world but she was keen on drawing, and is self taught as an artist. After high school, further education took her away from growing up in a small town to Vancouver where she earned a BA at the University of British Columbia (UBC). This was followed by a BEd from Queens University in Kingston, Ontario. Upon graduating, Ingrid spent a few years in teaching but eventually realized that this was not her calling. Once she married, she set off on bigger adventures; to Australia and New Zealand, and later to Japan, and Thailand where she learned the art of silversmithing. Upon returning to Calgary the couple started a family. It was then that Ingrid began her journey in painting; first in watercolors then later in oils, which is her preferred medium. Her art has won both national and international awards and has been highlighted in International Artist, Avenues, and Arabella magazines. Ingrid has written articles about art and creativity for Artsy online magazine. She says she is, first and foremost, a painter of light. Her work is an ongoing exploring of light's ability to elevate even the most mundane object into the glowing subject of a painting. When she is not painting, Ingrid is teaching either online or with in-person workshops. Ingrid has two sons, Zac and Ben, and is married to film producer David Christensen. She lives in Calgary, Alberta. 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]

Ingrid’s website: ingridchristensen.com
Ingrid on Instagram: @ingridchristensenartist

Ingrid’s favorite female artists:
Cecily Brown
Zoe Frank
Jennifer Pochinski
Erika Seguin
Joanna Logue
Claudia Rilling
Lisa Golightly
Amy Dury
Amy Brakeman Livezey
Lucy Stopford
Cathy Chin (@realandplastic)
Mary Beth Mckenzie
Karen Silve Natalia
Tomas Segovia

Ingrid’s Playlist:
Aruna Chandra/Mashti, Deep Dive Corp.
Kidz of Tibet/Kleintierschaukel, Badau
It’s a Beautiful Day (Reprise)/The Kiffness, Rushawn, Jermaine Edwards
Cassiopeia/Dan Bay
Poseidon/Dan Bay La Rubrique
September Fields/Frazey Ford
Heart of Glass/Lily Moore
Righteously/Anna Ash
Chaise Longue/Wet Leg
Downtown Train/Tom Waite
Never Going Back/Fleetwood Mac
Adriatica/Opez
Hallelijah (I’m a Dreamer)/Luther Dickinson, Amy LaVere
Sweet Dark-Haired Man/Joan Shelley
Walking on Broken Glass/Annie Lennox
Not Fair/Lily Allen
You Know I’m No Good/Amy Winehouse
Hello (feat. Dragonette)/Martin Solveig, Dragonette


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Step into the enchanting world of costume artistry with this biographical podcast interview featuring Christiane Joy, an acclaimed costumier, designer, and creative visionary known for her innovative approach to character, texture, and identity. In this episode, Christiane shares her creative evolution—from her early artistic influences to her rise as a sought-after designer whose work bridges theater, film, performance, and fashion. Listeners will discover how Christiane transforms imagination into material form—crafting garments that move beyond clothing into expressive storytelling. She discusses the power of intuition, the significance of materials, and how collaboration shapes her process. Together, we explore her most notable creative partnerships, the emotional dimension behind her pieces, how costumes help performers access truth, and what fuels her continued curiosity for the craft. Whether you're a costume designer, filmmaker, performer, fashion lover, or simply curious about how visual language shapes narrative, this conversation offers an intimate look into the creative life of a designer committed to authenticity and artistic risk-taking. Christiane shares insights on sourcing inspiration, managing the demands of production, navigating artistic vulnerability, and balancing practical function with conceptual vision. Tune in to hear how Christiane Joy continues to evolve her storytelling practice, connect with audiences through fabric and form, and create worlds where character and costume become inseparable.

Keywords:
Christiane Joy, an acclaimed costumier and costume designer known for her inventive approach to performance design, character design, and textile artistry. Through this artist interview, listeners gain insight into her creative process, costume construction, and storytelling techniques. The conversation spans the worlds of film costume design, theatrical costume design, fashion and performance, and artisan costume, offering a rich look at how costumes shape character and narrative. Perfect for listeners interested in creative storytelling, artist storytelling, and the world of costume and performance art.

BIO
Costumiére Christiane Joy Hultquist first established her name when she collaborated with Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ lead singer, Karen O to design her stage costumes, and she has never looked back. Christiane was born in Marion, Iowa in 1973, the second oldest of six children to Connie and Jim Hultquist. Her parents had their own challenges raising a family while each spending time in the prison system. Her mother became a ‘born again Christian’ and so instilled a religious upbringing to her children. She was creative, teaching them to be resourceful using DIY—a skill Christiane would later adopt in her craft. Connie was also a writer, and her father a singer. Coming from a poor background, Christiane soon learned that she needed to make her own way and, while she excelled at sport in school, she had no academic ambitions. Instead she decided to make her own way and is entirely self taught—aside from one year studying photography, she had no training to become an artist or costume designer. Once she left Iowa and headed east to Chicago, her world began to open up and she spent time in Europe before, at the age of 24, realizing her future was destined to be in New York.  It was there that she worked in retail and made the most of networking, which paid off, and it wasn’t long before she met Karen O, herself a burgeoning artist.  Thus began a partnership that would showcase her work on stage, and give her the name recognition she needed to establish herself in the industry.  Consequently, international success followed.  Christiane’s work has been exhibited in The Victoria & Albert Museum in London, the Mode Museum in Hasselt, Belgium and The Museum of Art and Design in New York City.  She has also held her first solo show at the AVA Gallery in New York.  Christiane’s work has been featured across all major publications, including The New York Times, Time Magazine, Vogue, Vanity Fair, The Guardian, Billboard, Spin and Rolling Stone. Christiane lives in New York with her husband, the actor and artist, Jason Grisell.
 
Some of Christiane’s favorite female artists:
Melissa Godoy Nieto
Alex Murray-Leslie
@ioulex
Mariangela Lopez
Caroline McAuliffe
Janelle Rabbott
Naomi Sarah Clark
Rachel Nelson
Michell Im
Camilla Carper
Cammi Climaco 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @thecalltimepodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

In this episode of AART the Podcast, we sit down with Kathryn Andrews, a leading American conceptual artist known for her provocative installations that blur the lines between sculpture, politics, and pop culture. Andrews’ work challenges viewers to question how images, materials, and cultural symbols shape our understanding of identity, value, and power. Through an engaging and revealing conversation, Kathryn shares her creative journey—from her early inspirations and MFA years to her critically acclaimed exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, David Kordansky Gallery, and the High Line in New York. She discusses the conceptual framework behind her use of Hollywood props, reflective surfaces, and performative elements that invite audiences to confront the art object—and themselves—with fresh eyes. Listeners will gain insight into Kathryn’s artistic process, her views on the relationship between art and consumerism, and how she explores themes of gender, celebrity, and control through her unique visual language. This intimate interview captures not only the depth of her ideas but also the humor, rigor, and play that define her practice. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, collector, student, or curator, this episode offers a rare look into the mind of one of the most compelling contemporary artists working today. 🔗 Tune in to learn how Kathryn Andrews continues to redefine conceptual art in the 21st century — only on AART the Podcast.

🔑 SEO Keywords:
Kathryn Andrews interview, Kathryn Andrews artist, Kathryn Andrews conceptual artist, American conceptual artist, AART the Podcast, contemporary art podcast, conceptual art interview, modern sculpture, installation art, art and pop culture, art and politics, women in contemporary art, art podcast 2025, artist biography podcast, conceptual art discussion, Kathryn Andrews exhibitions, art and consumerism, Los Angeles artist, modern American artists

BIO
American conceptual artist Kathryn Andrews was born in Mobile, Alabama in 1973. The only child of Judy, an entrepreneur, and Lamar, a salesman and erstwhile poet, Kathryn’s early days were transient because her family’s business determined where they lived. Kathryn’s childhood influences in terms of culture, politics and religion would form the backdrop to her emergence as an artist. Her formal art education began with a BFA from Duke University and an MFA from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. She also studied photography at the Rochester Institute of Technology, NY prior to becoming interested in sculpture. She says that initially she did not consider being an artist—working in mixed media came later. Kathryn spent time traveling through Europe and working a range of jobs, including with Bosnian refugees in Slovenia. She then spent five years in Manhattan as a researcher and working for the fine art photographer, Rosalind Solomon. Kathryn then moved to LA in 2000 and began exhibiting her work in 2002. She has exhibited in numerous shows both shared and solo as well as holding performances at institutions including the Broad Art Museum, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI (2017), the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago, (2015), The High Line, New York, (2016), and the Museum Ludwig, Cologne, Germany (2013). Kathryn is the founder of The Judith Center, which seeks to engage women artists, activists and thought leaders in conversation around the topic of gender equality. It will launch in the spring of 2024 with 50 artists featured in 30 museums over the next five years. Meanwhile, Kathryn’s work will be featured in a new exhibition at Kunstmuseum Thun in September 2023, called Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys. Kathryn lives in Los Angeles with her two Bedlington terriers, Coco and Cooper.

Kathryn’s favorite female artists:
Agnes Denes Marisol
Alison Knowles
Barbara T Smith
Barbara Jones-Hogu (d)
Lutz Bacher (d)
Gae Aulenti (d)
Cini Boeri (d)

Kathryn’s Playlist (but not when she’s working)
Bill Frissell
Pauline Oliveros
Leo Kottke
Dizzy Gillespie

Kathryn’s website: https://kathrynandrews.net/
Instagram: @crib_z

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Instagram: @theaartpodcast
Email:[email protected]


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Join us on AART the Podcast for an exclusive biographical interview with Akiko Stehrenberger, a celebrated movie poster illustrator and designer known for her captivating, cinematic artwork that brings films to life. In this episode, Akiko shares her journey from aspiring artist to professional illustrator, offering insights into the creative process behind iconic movie posters and the art of visual storytelling. Discover how Akiko combines traditional illustration techniques with modern design sensibilities, creating artwork that resonates with audiences worldwide. She opens up about her inspirations, challenges in the competitive world of film and design, and tips for aspiring illustrators looking to make their mark in the industry. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, graphic designer, illustrator, or film lover, this episode is packed with inspiration, creative wisdom, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most innovative minds in movie poster design. Don’t miss this deep dive into the intersection of illustration, design, and cinematic storytelling.

Keywords:
Akiko Stehrenberger, movie poster illustrator, film poster designer, illustration podcast, art interview, AART the Podcast, creative process, visual storytelling, cinematic illustration, graphic design inspiration, artist biography.

BIO
Movie poster illustrator and designer Akiko Stehrenberger was born in South Lake Tahoe, California in 1978. A first generation American, she is the second youngest of four children with one sister and two brothers. Akiko’s father, designer Mark Stehrenberger is Swiss German and her mother Aichu Yeh from Taiwan—which, until she was eight years old was under Japanese rule— and they met when they emigrated to Los Angeles in the 60’s. Akiko’s mother spoke both Japanese and Mandarin but fostered more of a Japanese culture. Although she was not a professional artist, she encouraged Akiko to take up drawing and apply for art school; that being the preferred option to her enlisting for the army, which came close to being a reality. And so, in 1997 Akiko began studying illustration and design at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. She also worked a variety of jobs to get through college and after she graduated in order to pursue her career and pay off student loans. New York beckoned and she moved from Southern California to learn the trade of becoming a designer and illustrator. When her mother became ill, Akiko moved back to LA. It was also coincidentally at the time when magazines were moving online that she fell into the movie poster industry, which changed the course of her life. In 2004, she officially began her career as a movie poster artist. It would be the film Funny Games, for which her poster was chosen, that put creative directors and the film industry on notice that here was an artist making her mark. Akiko is now a 23-time CLIO Award winner who was deemed the “Poster Girl” by Interview Magazine. Vanity Fair included her Funny Games and Kiss of the Damned posters in their “Best Movie Posters of All Time” list. Her "Da 5 Bloods" is on view at the Academy Motion Pictures Museum. Akiko’s portfolio includes Portrait of a Lady on Fire, TÁR, Dune, Beef and Everything, Everywhere All at Once, to name just a few. Akiko combines traditional illustration techniques and modern graphic design to create textural elements with fearless experimentation showcasing her crafty intuition and versatility by capturing the essence of a film in a single image. New Life director John Rosman said: “Akiko is simply one of the best poster artists of all time.” Her first book, Akikomatic: The Work of Akiko Stehrenberger, published in 2020 will be updated with more recent posters later this year for its second edition. Akiko lives in Los Angeles with her son Barrington.

Akiko on Instagram: @doyrivative
https://akikomatic.com/

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
@theaartpodcast on Instagram


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Discover the delicate beauty of botanical art in this inspiring episode of AART the Podcast, featuring celebrated botanical artist Carol Woodin. Known for her meticulous and vibrant plant illustrations, Carol takes us behind the scenes of her creative journey—from her early fascination with nature to her acclaimed works that bridge art and science. In this in-depth interview, Carol shares her insights into botanical illustration techniques, the process of translating plants into detailed artworks, and the balance between accuracy and artistic expression. She also discusses her experiences exhibiting her work, collaborating with botanical institutions, and the role of contemporary botanical art in today’s art world. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, aspiring botanical illustrator, or simply captivated by the natural world, this episode offers a rich exploration of creativity, observation, and the timeless beauty of plants. Tune in for a blend of personal anecdotes, professional tips, and inspiring stories from a leading voice in botanical art.

Keywords:
botanical artist, botanical illustration, Carol Woodin, AART the Podcast, plant art, contemporary botanical art, art interview, nature-inspired art, art techniques, artist journey, fine art, creative process, botanical illustration tips.

Botanical Artist, teacher and exhibition organizer, Carol Woodin was born in 1956 in Salamanca, Upstate New York inside the Allegany Indian Reservation, one of two governed by the Seneca Nation of New York. Her father James was a construction worker and her mother June, a library clerk who also enjoyed oil painting and playing the piano. Carol is the middle of six children with four brothers and one sister. Her childhood was one of making her own fun outdoors and with sketchbook in hand she pursued an early interest for art. At first this would be still life and landscape paintings until an introduction to orchids became a passion and one that developed into a level of expertise she did not plan on. In fact, she never wanted to be a botanical artist; her foundation for illustration started in high school and then at the Williamsport Area Community College (now known as the Pennsylvania College of Technology) as a technical illustrator where she was one woman amongst 50 men. But before she could make art her career, Carol spent time as a draftsman, surveyor’s cartographer, UPS manager and for three years a tractor-trailer driver. In 2016, she married Paul Harwood who is also a painter and gardener. For the past 30 years Carol has focused exclusively on botanical art; as a painter, teacher and exhibition organizer. Most recently her work has been shown at Jonathan Cooper Gallery, London; Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC; Shirley Sherwood Gallery, Kew, UK: UBS Galleries and Newhouse Galleries in New York; Museum de Zwarte Tulp, in the Netherlands; and the Marciana Library, in Venice, Italy. Her work is also in numerous private and corporate collections throughout the Americas and Europe. Carol was recently invited to contribute to the Grootbos Florilegium, a project to document and raise awareness of the Cape Floral Kingdom in South Africa. In 1995 Carol received a Gold Medal from the Royal Horticultural Society for her watercolors of Paphiopedilum orchids, and was the recipient of the 1998 “Bouchier ASBA Award for Excellence” from the American Society of Botanical Artists. In 2013 she received the first Lankester Award for Orchid Art in Cartago, Costa Rica and in 2016, the Orchid Digest Medal of Honor. Carol lives in Catskill, New York where she also cultivates her own flora and fauna.

Carol’s favorite contemporary artists:
Tanya Marcuse (contemporary photographer)
Rosie Sanders (botanical artist)
Jean Emmons (botanical artist)
Asuka Hishiki (botanical artist)
Mieko Ishikawa (botanical artist)
Katie Whipple (oil painter)
Andrea Kowch (oil painter)

Playlist:
Bill Staines- Travelling Shoes Les Paul and his Trio – It’s only a Paper Moon (That Crazy Rhythm) instrumental Lorraine Hunt Lieberson Bach: Contatas BMV 82 and 199 Mike and Ruthy The Farmer (Bright as You Can) Dianne Reeves – Nine

Podcast: In Defense of Plants

Books: Anne Cleeves’ Vera series Mick Herron’s Slow Horses series Ron Chernow’s historical biographies (Hamilton, J.D. Rockefeller, J.P Morgan, Washington, just started Grant) Geraldine Brooks—historical/contemporary novels—People of the Book, Horse, The Secret Chord, Caleb’s Crossing


Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Dive into the vibrant world of textile artistry with Carmen Mardonez in this inspiring episode of AART the Podcast. Carmen, an acclaimed textile artist, shares her creative journey, exploring how her passion for fabric, color, and texture transforms into stunning works of art. From her early inspirations to the intricate techniques she uses in weaving, embroidery, and mixed-media textiles, Carmen gives listeners an intimate look at the artistry and dedication behind her craft. In this biographical interview, discover how Carmen merges traditional textile methods with contemporary design, creating pieces that tell compelling stories and evoke emotion. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a fellow textile artist, or someone curious about the creative process, this episode offers valuable insights, practical tips, and a glimpse into the life of a modern-day textile artist shaping the future of fiber art.

Keywords: Carmen Mardonez, textile artist, fiber art, contemporary textile design, embroidery, weaving, mixed-media art, AART the Podcast, artist interview, creative journey, biographical podcast, art inspiration

BIO
Textile artist Carmen Mardonez was born in Santiago, Chile in 1988. She is the oldest of nine children with seven sisters and one brother. Her father Joaquim is an engineer and her mother, also Carmen, was a psychologist until raising her family took over. As a child, Carmen was into crafts and soon learned to sew, knit, and embroider. She studied History and Arts at the University of Chile, and earned a master’s degree in Community Psychology, also at the University of Chile. Whilst in school, Carmen volunteered at the local women’s prison and studied art therapy as a way of helping the prisoners. In 2017, she moved with her husband Paulo to Los Angeles where her dreams and aspirations to becoming a textile artist aligned with her passion for social justice. Carmen’s vibrant artwork using vivid colors seeks to radically reimagine intimate spaces of memories, dreams, and discovery. She transforms discarded textile waster such as bed sheets, pillow covers, and pillows through her labor-intensive freestyle embroidery to create provocative fabric sculptures and installations. She says: “I seek to connect with these radically intimate spaces that store memories of exploration, discovery, and suffering.” Carmen has held exhibitions across LA, at the Jackson Dinsdale Art Center, JKR Gallery, Provo, Utah, Stay at Home Gallery, Paris, TN, Oranj Studio Gallery, Portland, OR, and the Friend of a Friend Gallery, Denver, CO. Her work has also been shown in “Building Bridges Art Exchange” and “Craft Contemporary”, and has received the support of several grants, scholarships, and art residencies. Later this summer, Carmen will be relocating to Oxford, England with her husband and their six year old son Juan.

Carmen’s favorite women artists:
Sarah Plamodon
Sarah Detweiler
Amy J. Dyck
Nagu
Ash Woodworth
Bushra Gill
Tara Centybear

What does Carmen do while she’s working with fabric?
“Usually I work in silence or talking with one of my sisters/grandmas/friends by phone. Or watching something on Netflix to keep practice my English.”


Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]

Join us on AART the Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Rebecca Youssef, a visionary mixed media artist whose work bridges painting, collage, and experimental techniques. In this episode, Rebecca shares her artistic journey, the stories behind her most captivating pieces, and the creative processes that fuel her unique style. From early inspirations to her current explorations in contemporary mixed media art, Rebecca provides an intimate look at how she transforms materials into expressive, thought-provoking works of art. Whether you’re an art lover, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the world of contemporary art, this episode offers invaluable insights into the mind of a modern mixed media artist, including tips on overcoming creative blocks, finding your artistic voice, and navigating the art world. Tune in for a conversation full of creativity, passion, and the power of artistic expression.

Keywords:
Rebecca Youssef, mixed media artist, contemporary art, art podcast, creative process, AART the Podcast, painting and collage, artist interview, modern art techniques, art inspiration, biographical artist interview

BIO
Mixed media artist Rebecca Youssef was born in Lebanon, PA in 1973. The daughter of teachers Chic & Linda Hess, she was the middle of three children; she has an older brother and younger sister. Art runs in her family in different mediums; her sister and a cousin are graphic artists, an aunt was a fashion designer, and her paternal grandmother was a hobby painter. At the age of 9, her family moved to Hawaii where Rebecca began to appreciate the connection between nature and nurture. She developed her interest in gardening and arboriculture, which established the foundation for her focus on eco-culture. Her love of trees and nature is reflected in her work as she strives to bring awareness to the importance of sustainable art. She says: “I’ve been an avid gardener since the age of ten. Even then, I recall understanding the importance of growing and nurturing native plants. I was already in awe of California’s lush topography, and knew that a balanced ecosystem was key to survival for all its members.” Rebecca graduated from the University of Arizona in Tucson with a Bachelor in Fine Arts and a Masters in Art Education from Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles. After college she worked as a graphic artist and in fashion before teaching art. She met her husband Ike in LA where they live with their three children; Andrew, Caroline and Margaret. Rebecca returned to art seven years ago and after initially finding it a challenge once she found how her art belonged in her soul and with her eco-friendly values, she settled into what has become her niche; using natural materials and sustainable practices for eco-conscious mixed media art. She says: ‘Beautiful things can be made by working with the planet, not taking from it.” As the saying goes: one man’s trash is another man’s treasure and Rebecca has proved how waste can be transformed into beauty. A cultivator of native California oak trees, her family’s acorn project has seen over 25,000 acorns planted in the Santa Monica Mountains over the past ten years. Rebecca is currently an artist-in-residence at the 18th Street @ The Airport art complex in Santa Monica, CA. 


Rebecca’s favorite female artists: "Jaclyn Gordyan, who uses objects found in nature in her work Laurey Bennett-Levy, who is a printmaker using cyanotype Joan Wulf, who uses smoke and fire to create marks Julie Mehretu, who creates layered, abstracted landscapes Mickalene Thomas, whose collages incorporate glitter, rhinestones and enamel."

Rebecca’s playlist:
"Podcasts: I Like Your Work, Art Problems, The Flying Fruitbowl, Arts To Hearts, Armchair Expert, Pivot Music: Hip Hop only Audiobooks: Everything from fiction to self help. I just started Finding The Mother Tree and am loving it."

Rebecca's website: https://www.rebeccayoussef.com/
Instagram: rebecca.youssef_studio


Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected]


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/women-unscripted--4769409/support.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Website: https://hollowellstudios.com/podcasts
Instagram: @twomenunscriptedpodcasts
Email: [email protected]