Artists Talk Movies
By Erin Stafford and Heyd Fontenot
Explore the movies that caused a chain reaction of creativity by influencing artists of the 21st century.
Artists Talk MoviesOct 31, 2022
Enter the Dragon (1973)
Get ready dear listeners to enter the dragon as Heyd and Erin discuss the action-packed Bruce Lee’s film with Dallas-based Adnan Razvi, who is drawn to the explosive energy and the philosophical mantras sprinkled throughout the film. This blockbuster sensation was influential to many creatives and set the stage for Kung-Fu as a cultural juggernaut for many generations. Listen in as we punch, kick and chop into topics such as colonialism, cultural displacement and exoticism, but don’t worry, podcasters “don’t kick back”!
Tangents: gesture drawing, white-washing, Jeffrey Epstein, Tea, 4th of July, sound effects, food photography, cannabis, art critics, dangerous children’s toys
For more information about Adnan's studio practice, check out his website www.mr-rzv.com and Instagram @mr_rzv
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Hours (2002)
Heyd, I think I'll get the flowers myself!
Three artists from different backgrounds, each watching a movie that features three women from different time periods. This beautiful, yet gut-wrenching movie has visual elements of contrast and contradiction that directly relates to guest artist Sookoon Ang's artistic expression. Join us and find out how Erin, Heyd and Sookoon's lives overlap in this episode about The Hours as they discuss various topics including creative lifestyles, social relevance, and artistic jealousy.
Warning: This episode mentions suicide. Please take care and seek help if needed.
Tangents: Fight Club, Harvey Weinstein, Cake Fail, The Awakening, OceanGate, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, The Duggars, Damien Hirst, 30 Rock
For more information about Sookoon's studio practice, check out her website www.sookoonang.com and Instagram @sookoonang
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Qala (2022) with Nida Bangash
Get ready dear listeners to discover this stunning psychological drama film Qala, directed by Anvita Dutt through the insightful lens of guest artist Nida Bangash. With the protagonist Qala, a talented singer who often struggles with a demanding mother with internalized misogyny, we discuss frustrations as a creative whilst surrounded by a world of inequality and double standards. One part horror, one part dream and one part beauty, this film sheds soft light on the fragility of the artistic voice and the price of breaking the creative spirit.
Warning: This episode mentions suicide. Please take care and seek help if needed.
Tangents: black sheep, plagues, family traditions, transgender debate, therapy, colonial propaganda, paternity/maternity leave, cheerleading
For more information about Nida's studio practice, check out her website www.nidabangash.com and Instagram @nidabangash
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Gattaca (1997) with Juan Escobedo
Hey there listeners!!! We are back with artist Juan Escobedo as we wade through this sci-fi movie Gattaca, written and directed by Andrew Niccol, questioning the morality of DNA manipulation starring VERY pretty people. This dystopian futurist vision with Valid and In-Vaid members of society predetermined by their genetic make-up provides a springboard to current issues of discrimination, institutional hierarchies, and tokenism. So won't you provide us with a sample of your DNA so that we can have it...Oh...I'm sorry, the wind caught it...
Tangents: Berlin Zoo, gay coding, Bechtel AND DuVernay test, CRISPR, Rand Paul, Maya Rudolph, Discount Tire, Maurizio Cattelan
For more information about Juan's studio practice, check out his website www.jce-art.com and Instagram @x_j.esc
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Solaris (1972) with Denise Prince
Have you ever wondered what makes someone "real"? Well, we ponder that very existential question with artist Denise Prince with her influential movie choice Solaris from 1972. This Soviet science fiction drama presents alien life in the form of an ocean that seeps into our subconsciousness to artificially reveal people from our past, as the protagonist Kris is presented with his former wife who died from suicide. With Denise's interest in the organization of reality by our fantasies, we submerge into deep thoughts regarding human connections, the meaning of life and of course sex dolls!
Tangents: artificial intelligence, Elon Musk, The Seven Year Itch, aging, Bechtel Test, mirrors in art, gravity, babies
For more information about Denise's studio practice, check out her website www.deniseprince.com and Instagram @denise.prince.x
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Fellini Satyricon (1969) with Richard Saja
Heyd and Erin couldn't resist PROBING this pre-Christian, ancient Roman text adapted by Federico Fellini with Richard Saja, an artist who's whimsical alterations of French toile patterns reveal subversions of an alternative reality that feeds into the Felliniesque style. Originally written during the time of Nero, its no surprise that Satyricon embraces chaos, lust and debauchery, with dream-like erotically charged imagery that follows scantily clad "blonde hottie" and brunette hottie" through a chaotic story. We loved every juicy, outrageous minute!
Tangents: Lauren Boebert, Marylin Minter, Jeff Goldblum, Fight Club, Wari funerals, Mad Cow Disease, Goya, war on drag
For more information about Noah's practice, check out his Instagram @richardsaja
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Here and Elsewhere (1972) with Noah Simblist
Are you ready dear listeners to earn an honorary PhD with Erin and Heyd??? Well, get ready as we discuss this French "documentary" film that explores the very nature of images and reality with curator and writer Noah Simblist. We talk about capitalism. We talk about politics. We talk about bread? Its a lively conversation about how media can manipulate the viewer and even find them complicit. C'est complicated!
Tangents: Freedom Fries, Instagram filters, A Clockwork Orange, Alex Jones, Zionism, Fox News, Leni Riefenstahl, Heyd's mom, Oklahoma (the musical),
For more information about Noah's practice, check out his website www.noahsimblist.com and Instagram @noahsimblist
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Fly (1986) with Matthew Ronay
There was a young man who became a fly
I don’t know why he became a fly – Perhaps he’ll die!
Who doesn't love a gruesome body horror movie staring an Adonis such as Jeff Goldbloom??? Heyd and Erin invited New York-based artist Matthew Ronay who was influenced by The Fly from 1986 at an early age. Matthew's biomorphic sculptures shift between abstraction and representation, much like Brundlefly's transformation with connections to disease, aging, pregnancy, and puberty. Won't you teleport with us through this story of decay and loss that exposes our most basic human fear of losing control of our own bodies? Be afraid. Be very afraid!
Tangents: AIDS crisis, 9/11, Joseph Cornell, anxious/avoidant attachment style, toxic masculinity, bathrooms, trypophobia, cybernetics, EO, American Ivy style, Grand-Guignol
For more information about Matthew's studio practice, follow him on Instagram @mysteriousfog
Warning: talks of suicide in this episode. Please take care of yourself www.suicidepreventionlife.org
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Special Episode! Gray Gardens (1976)
Pack your bags darling listeners as Heyd and Erin journey to East Hampton to explore a guilty pleasure film called Gray Gardens, a documentary featuring Big and Little Edie, a mother-daughter duo who represent a riches-to-rags story. As outsiders in their community, the Beales have cemented themselves as camp icons with a penchant for performing their musical talents whilst swimming in the ocean of nostalgic reverie. As we dig into themes of arrested development, the aesthetics of decay, and exhibitionism, you too can have your cake and eat, chew and masticate it too!
Tangents: cat lady trope, empathy, avant-garde fashion, Michael Jackson, the Kardashians, Abstract Expressionism, Madonna, Criterion Collection, feminism, match-making, portraiture
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Ben-Hur (1959) with Celia Eberle
God grant me vengeance. I pray that you listen to this amazingly EPIC episode with artist Celia Eberle, who watched this Biblical fan fiction film Ben-Hur at the tender age of 9, which made a great impression on her. We vow with every stroke of our oar you will enjoy this discussion which includes homoerotic undertones, world building and propaganda. So hang onto your suggestively shaped spear as we navigate these waters before we have to take if from your "cold, dead hands!".
Tangents: White Christian Nationalist, Tom Cruise, Titanic, Saint Teresa, Chinese cinema, censorship, The Simpson, white washing, Maintenance Phase podcast, The Whale
For more information about Celia' studio practice, check out his website www.celiaeberle.com and Instagram @eberlecelia
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Silence of the Lambs (1991) with Chris Castillo
Hello dear listeners...we have invited artist/photographer/librarian Chris Castillo to discuss the award-winning horror movie The Silence of the Lambs and all of its complexities that tap into our collective fears. Inspired by real life serial killers, this film addresses transgressive subjects such as cannibalism, queerness, and Nazi sympathizers, but don't worry, Chris has promised us a Buffalo Bill Spotify playlist to soothe us like the lambs to the slaughter.
Tangents: queer coding, trama bonding, Hays Code, Xipe Totec, Venus of Willendorf, stranger danger, lab grown meat, Black Dalia, cold readings
Jame Gumb (aka Buffalo Bill) Spotify Playlist!
For more information about Chris' studio practice, check out his website www.thatchriscastillo.com and Instagram @chrisclean
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Happening (2008) with Ricardo iamuuri Robinson
IN A WORLD, WHERE NO ONE KNOWS WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON...Ricardo iamuuri Robinson, a multi-faceted artist from Pittsburg, has selected M. Night Shymalan's tale of chaos and confusion called The Happening. Though this movie has not been seen favorably by most critics, Ricardo discusses the reasons why he is drawn to this epically terrible film as a way to understand the struggles of humanity, with an invisible villain who might just be that ficus tree in your corner. Heyd and Erin dig deep with Ricardo into this "satirical" movie with themes of loss, fear and tiramisu!
Tangents: Trump's NFTs, George Floyd, glory holes, Zardoz, propaganda, Artificial Intelligence, predictive programing
For more information about Ricardos's studio practice, check out her website www.sonarcheology.com and Instagram @lavenderfreddy
Video for “Working Thought” exhibition at CMOA https://cmoa.org/exhibition/working-thought/
BLACKBODY, White Noise https://wavefarm.org/wf/archive/wf2bp2
Radio Gulf https://wavefarm.org/wf/archive/qhcaxj
Checkpoint C https://traf.trustarts.org/events/4739
SPF 22 https://radioart.zone/friday-16-september
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The NeverEnding Story (1985) with Miranda Brandon
We invite you on this quest dear listeners to save Fantasia from the Nothing...or we will make you an egg and orange juice smoothie! Either way, we know you will enjoy this episode with artist Miranda Brandon as we explore the philosophical, psychological, historical aspects of this movie, along with the inherit creepiness of Falkor. This nostalgic inducing film provided us with many interpretations, allowing us to conquer our own fears as we reflect on themes of trauma and escape as we scream into the sky MOONCHILD!!!!
Tangents: Titanic, Scientology, Nihilism, John Oliver, Art & Fear, AI art, Sol LeWitt and Yoko Ono, Benin Bronzes, Imposter Syndrome, Xanax, "usefulness"
Here is the website for the Greyhound Pets of America
For more information about Tabatha's studio practice, check out her website www.mirandabrandon.com and Instagram @ordinarylastname
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
My Cousin Vinny (1992) with Tabatha Trolli
What's a yute, you ask dear listener? FInd out as Heyd and Erin converse with artist Tabatha Trolli, an artist originally from Pennsylvania, who has a fondness for the 1992 hit movie My Cousin Vinny. This courtroom comedy digs into some pretty intense habeas corpus with some surprising feminist undertones that might surprise you. We might only have circumstantial evidence, but don't worry we promise it won't end with a hung jury.
Tangents: Buns of Steel, Madonna, Slums of Beverly Hills, art commission, Home Alone, the Amish, Escape from New York, Rudy Giuliani, happy accidents
For more information about Tabatha's studio practice, check out her website www.tabathatrolli.com and Instagram @tabathatrolli
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Hunger (1983) with Kendall Morgan
Any cravings out there??? Heyd and Erin can help with this Halloween episode featuring culture writer Kendall Morgan who has selected The Hunger, an artsy film that is a quintessential 80's erotic horror movie with the legendary David Bowie. This movie features vampires with deep feelings who fear aging and loneliness, playing classical music to soothe their aching hearts. Join us as we pull back the sheer curtains and shoo the white doves as we dig into this film that has "the most elegantly shot lesbian scene ever committed to film."
Tangents: Starck Club, botox and fillers, vampire facials, Death Becomes Her, Instagram filters, alien abductions, faux finishes, Jery Saltz, Top Gun
For more information about Kendall's writing, check out follow her on Instagram @an_uncommon_alchemy.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Jojo Rabbit (2019) with Jeffry Mitchell
Ever wonder what would happen if Wes Anderson and Mel Brooks had a baby??? Look no further as we invite you to our conversation with artist Jeffry Mitchell, a gay folk artist from Portland, who was captivated with this episode's movie Jojo Rabbit whilst working in his studio. Even though this film is a tad controversial, we hope you enjoy this deep dive on the comedic interpretation of Nazi Germany as we try not to let a hand grenade blow up in our faces!
Tangents: USA Freedom Kids, Catholic Church, Mary Kelly's Post-Partum Document, Dan Savage, Inglorious Bastards, vampire sex, Nom Chomsky, Wes Anderson, Up with People
For more information about Jeffry's studio practice, check out follow him on Instagram @jeffrymitchell.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Little Mermaid (1976 and 1989) with Jessica Harvey
Are you ready dear listeners to explore the underwater tale (no pun intended) of Hans Christian Andersen's legend about a girl who doesn't fit in? This double-feature episode with Jessica Harvey takes on a Czech iteration titled Malá mořská víla from 1976 with its mesmerizing music and dreamy visuals as well as the 1989 adaptation produced by Disney. We explore the subliminal messages of this beloved fairytale with its themes of sadistic torture, patriarchal structures, and religious indoctrination. We know that you will be amused by this discussion because as Heyd stated "I'm talking to two 6 year olds about an animal movie!".
Tangents: Little Shop of Horrors, Beanie Babies, Catholicism, guilty pleasures, sex education, queer villains
For more information about Jessica's studio practice, check out follow her website thejessicaharvey.com and Instagram @thejessicaharvey.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Forrest Gump (1994) with Gary Sweeney
Get ready to throw away those rose-colored glasses as we look at this gluttonous "apolitical" film Forrest Gump with artist Gary Sweeney, our guest artist who is known for his re-examination of the past with a sharply pointed feather that will tickle your funny bone. Erin and Heyd get critical with this Academy award-winning film that did not age well, knowing full well that their observation might suffer the same fate in the future. Cuddle up as we embrace this cloyingly sweet film that melts like cotton candy with an artist who will have you wondering who the movie is actually for.
Tangents: deep fakes, public art committees, Texas textbooks, blindcasting, rap music, Woodstock '99, Gary's grandmother, patriotism
For more information about Gary's studio practice, check out follow his Instagram @garysweeneyart.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
Rear Window (1954) with Patty Carroll
Who doesn't love a good whodunit??? Settle in as Heyd and Erin nestle into this classic Alfred Hitchcock film Rear Window with Patty Carroll, a photographer based in Chicago who captures the constraints of society in wonderfully composed domestic spaces. As a lover of bygone eras, Patty is enamored by this films portrayal of various types of women and how they are seen from the POV of the protagonists. We invite you to follow us as we decipher the clues of Rear Window, perhaps questioning where you see yourself within the "race of Peeping Toms".
Tangents: Technicolor, stereotypes and gender roles, social media, reality TV, Edith Head, pandemic art, thrifting, MurderCon, origins of "throwing shade"
For more information about Patty's studio practice, check out follow her website pattycarroll.com and Instagram @pattyphotosnaps.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Big Lebowski (1998) with Nic Nicosia
In the parlance of our time, Heyd and Erin chat with artist Nic Nicosia who shares with us his affection for this stoner noir classic, The Big Lebowski, which was lovingly directed by the Cohen brothers. We explore the paradoxical nature of his dudeness, duder, or el dudorino as well as other memorable characters that has been a catalyst for Nic in the studio. So if you’re not into the whole brevity thing, join us as we meander our way through this film like tumbleweed, but please be careful, man, there’s a beverage here!
Tangents: Pulp Fiction, Nicolas Cage, Stanley Kubrick, Hollywood industry, Church of the SubGenius, 9/11 conspiracy, sexual positions
For more information about Nic's studio practice, check out follow is website nicnicosia.com and Instagram @nicnicosa.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!! https://artists-talk-movies.storenvy.com/
Paisan (1946) with Celia Álvarez Muñoz
No sugar coating here dear listeners. We dive into this Italian neorealism film Paisan with artist/activist Celia Álvarez Muñoz, an octogenarian who is inspired by the commonality of the characters, who despite not being able to speak the same language, make meaningful connections. This six episodic film carefully crafts stories about the humanity of war from the perspective of ordinary people, allowing us to see a range of conflicts and emotions. Join us as we attempt to tie a rope around Roberto Rosselini's film with an artist who is deeply invested in personal and historical experiences.
Tangents: white telephone movies, Hollywood props, silent films, German Expressionism, Netflix by mail, Wes Anderson, The Night Porter
For more information about Celia's studio practice, check out follow her Facebook page.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Help support the podcast by purchasing t-shirts, totes, mugs, hats, etc!!!!
The Motel (2005) with Taro Waggoner
Artist and graphic designer Taro Waggoner has selected the award-winning Indie film The Motel, which features an impressionable 13-year-old boy who's Chinese-American family owns a seedy hourly-rate motel. Taro is drawn to the awkward adolescence of Ernest who is struggling with bullies, a neighborhood crush, and a family who doesn't understand him. This tender glimpse into the plight of this misunderstood boy reveals the inner child in all of us who dare to open the mysterious if not terrifying box of fried chicken!
Tangents: Norman Rockwell, Awkwafina, Ocean Vuong, Jackie Chan, folk art, magical thinking, Pen15
For more information about Taro's studio practice, check out his website www.taro-kun.com and Instagram @fantasyboytaro and @strangepowerspress Here is a link to Dallas Zine Fest with details on the application process.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Special Episode! Rosemary's Baby (1968)
To celebrate our 30th episode, Heyd has selected a movie to discuss that has greatly influenced him, which is chock-full full of salacious themes such as motherhood, the Occult, traditional gender roles and feminism. Rosemary's Baby explores the gestation period of the titular character's womb, which has been "pimped out" (Heyd's words) by her husband, who is appropriately named Guy. Originally a novel by Ira Levin, this movie has captured the imagination of its audience with conspiracy theories focused on satanic horror not to mention a trendy new haircut by Vidal Sassoon!
Tangents: placenta, Boogie Nights, dick pics, ethical pornography, Balthus, Mother!, Sackler family, Stepford Wives
For more information about Heyd's studio practice, check out his website www.heydfontenot.com and Instagram @heydf
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Jurassic Park (1993) with Sarah Welch
Hold on to your butts listeners as Heyd and Erin dive deep into this 90's blockbuster hit Jurassic Park with artist Sarah Welch. We spared no expensive as well tunnel though themes such as feminism, attempts at controlling nature, Marxism and villains vs. heroes. With limited access to movies, Jurassic Park was one that resonated with Sarah with her fascination with humans relationships to flora and fauna in many variations such as zines, prints and installations. Buckle your seatbelts as we dig though the folly of humans with this nostalgic horror/sci-fi classic.
Tangents: author Sady Doyle, FurnGully, animal husbandry, Roe vs. Wade, women in STEM, Freudian slips, fat-phobia, Spice Girls, Guernica
For more information about Sarah's studio practice, check out her website www.sarahwelch.info and Instagram @welch_wich You can find Sarah's work to purchase on Mystic Multiples and Etsy
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Waiting for Guffman (1996) with Cody Ledvina
Have you ever wanted to visit the "stool capital of the world"??? If so, join Heyd and Erin as they discuss this epic saga of Waiting for Guffman with artist Cody Ledvina, who is drawn to this mockumentary format with a satirical edge that created classics such as the Missouri compromise...of whatever Corky's haircut is! This "big fish in a small pond" story allows director/actor Christopher Guest to fabricate the delicious tale of a small town theater director who is tasked with recounting the town's history via a musical production, including alien abductions with quintessential probing. We have reserved a front row ticket for you as we giggle our way through this quest for fame and noterietay in the Americana hellscape we call home.
Tangents: city council meetings, Total Recall, Matthew McConaughey, gay face, Rand Paul, work families, artist cemetery
For more information about Cody's studio practice, check out his website www.codyledvina.com and Instagram @codyledvina
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Bringing out the Dead (1999) with Xxavier Edward Carter
Happy Easter/Jesus Zombie Day everyone!!! Heyd and Erin have invited transdisiplinary artist XXxavier Edward Carter to talk about this anxiety inducing movie Bringing Out the Dead, directed by Martin Scorsese about a manic NYC paramedic who struggles with insomnia as he attempts to save lives throughout the night shift. Much like this film, Xxavier is inspired by stories of survival with biblical references approached with a rawness and sincere vulnerability that achieves a level of transcendence. We promise that this episode will answer all of your questions about death, free will and how to break a metal baseball bat!
Tangents include: Pieta, cell phones, co-dependent relationships, death doula, sexy grandmas, nudity in art, sexy toys, Jerry Saltz, pornography
For more information about Xxavier's studio practice, check out his website www.xxavierismyname.com and Instagram @bambliatigre
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Lolita (1962) with Sophia Longoria
How did they ever make a movie of Lolita??? We attempt to answer that question with our guest Sophia Longoria, who is a Galveston-based artist that explores her personal experiences with inherited trauma and mental illness through figurative painting. As we discuss this movie directed by Stanley Kubrick, Sophia examines the repetitive use of the term "normal", allowing the viewer to see the inherit fallacy in this concept as it is used to describe predators. By cloaking the villains with the flavor of banality, this dark comedy shows us how humor can make us feel uncomfortable when it is sprinkled on top of a monster.
See Link Below For An Explanation Of A Therapy Called Cognitive Behavior Therapy That Has Helped Sophia To Be Well!
Also If You Feel You Need Some Help Out Of A Dark Place Please Seek It Out!! Here's A Number Below To Reach Out.
Tangents include: Woody Allen, Jorden Peterson, NIMBY, 2022 Oscars, Alfred Hitchcock, Shelly Duvall, Dan Savage
For more information about Sophia's studio practice, check out her work on Instagram @seriesofdots and website www.seriesofdots.onfabrik.com
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Rollerball (1975) with Chris Schanck
Well listeners, it's time lace up your roller skates for this dystopian movie ripe with biting social commentary called Rollerball, which was introduced to us by Detroit-based artist Chris Schanck. As someone who blends futuristic sculpture and furniture, Chris is often drawn to parallels between the ornate and the dilapidated, which can be seen thematically in this film with the use of violent sport as a metaphor to represent societal degradation. We invite you to explore the poetic side of this science-fiction sports movie that accurately predicted the future, with the exception of sport heroes in roller skates!
Tangents include: artistic moms, Tom Brady, mega churches, Nietzche, gentrification, Idiocracy, James Abbott McNeill Whistler
For more information about Chris's studio practice, check out his work on Instagram @chrisschanck
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Aimee and Jaguar (1999) with Edgar Fabián Frías
Heyd and Erin dig into this Romeo and Juliet style love story with artist/healer Edgar Fabián Frías, who engages with historical legacies while operating outside of the traditional structures of the art work. Since their youth, Edgar has felt connected to the two protagonists, Lily and Felice, who embody characteristics such as resilience, underground activism and gender fluidity, which play directly into Edgar's artwork. We hope you enjoy this dynamic conversation as we weave in and out of the past and present, questioning the status quo whilst trying not making it a "trembling contest".
Tangents include: femme-phobia, Ukraine, Easter, The Celluloid Closet, The Power of the Dog, fetus food cravings, inherited trauma
For more information about Edgars's studio practice, check out their website www.edgarfabianfrias.org and Instagram @edgarfabianfrias
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Predator (1987) with Emily Peacock
Knock-knock. Who's there? Arnold Schwarzenegger. Arnold Schwarzenegger who? Arnold Schwarzenegger making a knock-knock joke in this episode's feature movie Predator! Artist/photographer/comedian Emily Peacock has hand-selected this classic action-packed movie because of the unique bond that she shares with it and her dad growing up in rural Texas. With elements of humor and absurdity, this heart pumping deep-dive allowed us to explore Emily's artwork on multiple levels, but don't worry, we didn't push TOO many pencils!
Tangents include: competitive weightlifting, Cheetos in any form or color, James Abbott McNeill Whistler, homoeroticism, Ana Mendieta, crooked teeth, Jurassic Park, Eddie Murphy, censorship
For more information about Emily's studio practice, check out her website www.emilyannpeacock.com and Instagram @epeacock
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Harold and Maude (1971) with Margret Meehan
Tangents include: grandmother's scents, sex shaming, WITCH (Women's International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell), manic pixie dream girl trope, Arlington National Cemetery, Wes Anderson, cardinals, extreme embalming
For more information about Margrets's studio practice, check out his website www.margaretmeehan.net and Instagram @margaretmmeehan
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Joker (2019) with Joe Harjo
Have you ever been told to smile and put on a happy face? Well, get out your face-paint and join us as we speak with Joe Harjo, an artist who is drawn to this origin story of a killer comedian who takes vengeance on a community of villains. With inspiration regarding Joker's transformation, Joe makes multi-faceted work about his lived experiences and his Native American heritage, often confronting mainstream misrepresentation and single-mindedness. We invite you to hop on this rollercoaster of reality verses fantasy as we delve into dark questions such as "DId you pick Joker or did Joker pick you?".
Tangents include: dickful thinking, billionaires as politicians, caveman diets, QAnon Shaman, The Master, toxic positivity, Theaster Gates, Mark Hamill's Joker, staircases in art, Gray Gardens, Sarah Silverman, Edger Heap of Birds
For more information about Joe's studio practice, check out his website www.joeharjo.com and Instagram @ndnstagram
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
The Witches of Eastwick (1987) with Angela Fraleigh
Are you ready to conjure another spell with us dear listeners? For this episode, we are joined with figurative painter Angela Fraleigh to talk about another occult classic movie called The Witches of Eastwick, a film that explores female empowerment with a dash of misogyny. Our three heroines conjure their "perfect" man during a coven-style girls night, who unfortunately ends up manifesting into the "horny little devil", bringing about both sinful pleasure and questionable behavior. It's time to bring out the junk food and stir that martini for a magical conversation that will have you thinking twice before you eat another cherry.
Tangents include: John Currin, The Exorcist, slut shamming, Phyllis Schlafly, Kiki Smith, Frozen, narcissist relationships, SATC, Cone sisters
Reading: The Heronine with 1001 Faces by Maria Tatar
For more information about Angela's studio practice, check out her website www.angelafraleigh.com and Instagram @angelafraleigh
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Pan's Labyrinth (2006) with Sarah Fox
Are you in the mood for a epically rebellious fairytale? Then join Heyd and Erin as they converse with multi-media Sarah Fox who has been inspired by Mexican film director Guillermo del Toro to discuss his masterpiece Pan's Labyrinth. In the spirit of this movie, Sarah creates dark personal narratives with hybrid creatures while also revealing themes of love, loss and toxic masculinity. Join us as we wander through Fascist Spain of 1944 with the protagonist Ofelia who opens our eyes to the mysterious underworld that reveals both a happy and melancholic ending.
Tangents include: lobsters, mom's as artists, Krampus, Goya, eggs, NFTs again!, Nora Robert's books, hunting, McNay Art Museum
For more information about Sarah's studio practice, check out her website www.sarahfoxart/home.html and Instagram @foxsar
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Querelle (1982) with Brian Scott
Listeners, are you ready to roll the dice and take a chance with us as we explore the erotically charged film Querelle from 1982 with Dallas-based artist Brian Scott? Directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, this film follows the seductively deviant path of the titular character. Querelle is a sexy sailor that navigates a French brothel with various characters who want to love him AND kill him. Join us in our discussion as we ponder why men want to "kill the thing he loves". Tangents include: phallic architecture, Dungeons and Dragons, gay panic, masochism, Michelangelo, Village People, weddings, open relationships, Logan's Run For more information about Brians's studio practice, check out his website www.chuckandgeorge.net and Instagram @andgeorge and @junkmale1o1 Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Basquiat (1996) with Lance Letscher
So how long does it take to get famous??? Four years?? Six to get rich??? For this episode, Heyd and Erin discuss TWO films: Julian Schnabel’s biographical movie Basquiat and a documentary about our guest artist, The Secret Life of Lance Letscher. This double-feature episode explores representations of artists, including stereotypes, insecurities and the tortured genius with discussions centered around notions of celebrity, consumerism, and racism in the art world. Join us as we attempt to get at the heart of a movie about a painter made by a painter with a collage artist from Texas. Tangents include: artist stereotypes, insecurities, Vincent van Gogh, Basquiat purses, art world horror movies, Nancy Whitenack, NFTs, 3D movies For more information about Lances's studio practice, check out his website www.lanceletscher.com and facebook Lance Letscher Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
The Witch (2015) with Margaux Crump
Did ye make some unholy bond with that goat? The answer is most definitely YES!
With themes such as original sin, isolation, and infant sacrifice, how could we say no to our guest artist Margaux Crump with the psychological horror movie The Witch, directed by Robert Eggers in 2015. Both Heyd and Erin watched as the Puritan family battle the forces of evil that manifested into the iconic goat named Black Philip as well as mysterious witches in the woods. Even though this isn’t considered a feminist text, Margaux discusses her connection to the titular character who occupies a liminal space that allows for kindred connections between us and the worlds that we haven’t quite yet figured out.
Tangents include: refugee camps for witches, Blue Fugates family, Goya paintings, school dress code, Spiritualism, Erin's ghost story
For more information about Margaux's studio practice, check out her website www.margauxcrump.com and instagram @margauxcrump
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Sankofa (1993) with Dr. Fahamu Pecou
Erin and Heyd have invited Dr. Fahamu Pecou to ponder the Netflix re-released film Sankofa, directed by Haile Gerima, which was made possible by the innovator Ava DuVernay, director, writer and producer. Fahamu shares personal stories of his childhood and insights as a Black artist and father, connecting his experiences and practice to the philosophy of Sankofa, which translates to "go back, look for, and gain wisdom, power and hope". We know that you will be inspired from this nuanced conversation with Fahamu who's artwork pushes beyond trauma with images of empowerment and strength.
Tangents include: Ted Cruz, Fred Wilson, public art, Kanye West, Nina Simone, "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe
For more information about Fahamu's studio practice, check out his website www.fahamupecouart.com and instagram @fahamupecou
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) with Patrick Turk
Buckle up listeners as Heyd and Erin discuss the both loved AND hated psychedelically nauseating film Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas with Houston-based artist Patrick Turk. The dizzying aesthetics of the film relates directly to the sculptural collages made by Patrick with trippy repetition and radial designs while using anachronistic imagery sourced from science-fiction novels, encyclopedias, history, and scientific diagrams that seem to morph both time and space. With every drug induced stupor, we explore themes related to patriotism and moral panics that melt our perceptions of reality and make us question if we should continue to hump the American Dream.
Tangents include: D.A.R.E., Half-Priced Books, art school (again!), GOOP, Liberace, 14th wax medical models, Heyd and Erin’s Colorado “trip”
For more information about Patricks's studio practice, check out his website www.patrickturk.net and instagram @patrickturk76
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
A Clockwork Orange (1971) with H Schenck
Welly, welly, welly, welly, welly, welly, well. Heyd and Erin have invited Chicago-based artist H Schenck to discuss Stanley Kubrick’s futuristically squishy film A Clockwork Orange, which resonated with H as a teenage youth due to its subversive themes of masculinity and the “ultra-violence”. This movie explores the story of Alex, the gang leader of the “droogs” who go about terrorizing their victims whilst singing ironically upbeat toons such as “Singing in the Rain”, taunting them mercifully. After being charged with murder, Alex is brainwashed by the Minister to feel a deep aversion to violence and crime. We invite thou to play the old Ludwig van and pour a glass of “milk-plus” as we ponder the concepts of free will and societal moral panics. Viddy well listeners.
Tangents include: baby talk in the bedroom, moral panic à la Marilyn Manson and video games, artists as sponges, police brutality, sexy Bible verses, queer composer Wendy Carlos, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teaching of Plants
More suggested reading from H: A Better Man: A (Mostly Serious) Letter to My Son, Pass with Care: Memoirs, The Misunderstanding of the American Boy
For more information about H's studio practice, check out his website http://www.hschenck.com/ and instagram @hschenck_reclaim_space
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
The Wizard of Oz (1939) with Brian Jones
Erin and Heyd have invited Brian Jones, also part of an artistic duo called Chuck and George, to discuss the movie The Wizard of Oz...ever heard of it??? This technicolor dream enchanted Brian from an early age with its magical storytelling, vivid characters, and memorable tunes. This episode explores the myths of The Wizard of Oz, including dark undertones of manipulation, political coup d’état, PTSD and extreme dieting of cigarettes/coffee. Join us as we meander down the yellow brick road, sharing childhood memories that will have you too feeling Young in Heart.
Tangents include: poop paintings, Rumspringa, art school, John Waters' movies, Brian's childhood nickname, pet-able beasts
For more information about Brians's studio practice, check out his website http://www.chuckandgeorge.net/Brian%20K%20Jones/ and Instagram @chuckandgeorge
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Marie Antoninette (2006) with Ann Wood
Heyd and Erin converse with sculptor/installation artist Ann Wood as they enter into a world of decadence and decay with Sophie Coppola's historical drama film about the complex life of French queen Marie Antoninette. Ann's fondness for this movie stems from her Rococo aesthetic with squishy textures, floral motifs and frothy imagery that allow her to frolic in her inner impulses related to "cute aggression". In the spirit of the titular protagonist, Ann provocatively embraces the effeminate with a rebellious edge that will having you saying "Sacre bleu!".
Tangents include: pastry fetishes, royal sex ed., Brittney Spears, Monet's water lilies, hedonic treadmill, Art Basel
For more information about Ann's studio practice, check out his website https://annwoodartist.com/section/179556.html/ and Instagram @woodannc
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001) with Christie Blizard
"Put on some makeup and turn on the deck tape" as Heyd and Erin explore this groundbreaking musical comedy-drama Hedwig and the Angry Inch with San Antonio-based artist Christie Blizard. With a botched sex change surgery that was forced upon him, Hansel becomes Hedwig, the fabulous transgender singer who expresses her trauma through iconic ballads. Christie also connects to the idea of transformation by tapping into ancient spiritual text that has informed their studio practice through experimental performance while exploring the process of being trans species. We promise you won't have to give up part of yourself for love, but please remember that bras do NOT go in the dryer!
Tangents include: bad art schools, Farrah Fawcett, Blues Traveler's song Hook, Hedwig perfume, Octopi or Octolpuses, plant memories, regional art
For more information about Christie's studio practice, check out his website https://www.christieblizard.com/ and Instagram @christieblizard
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Blazing Saddles (1974) with Naima Lowe
It's time to polish your Gucci boots for this satirical Black, Western comedy as Heyd and Erin discuss Blazing Saddles with Naima Lowe, a Tulsa-based artist who embraced this movie with her dad as one of her childhood favorites. Naima offers her insightful reflections as an artists who is able to see the film as a Black, queer, womanish person with insights into topics such as miscegenation, cowboys of color and masculinity tropes. In the spirit of Mel Brooks and Richard Pryer, this episode will leave your head spinning as we lasso the history of Western films, squeezing them into a schnitzengruben!
Tangents include: dick jokes, Hollywood queerness, Gene Wilder's hair, Hays Code, Obamacare, Black rodeos, combining humor and melancholy
For more information about Naima's studio practice, check out his website https://www.naimalowe.net/ and Instagram @trial_and_error_dot_art
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
The Watermelon Woman (1996) with Julia Land Barbosa
Join Erin and Heyd as we explore an influential film of artist Julia Land Barbosa called The Watermelon Woman, first seen as a disgruntled teenager at her local shopping mall in San Antonio and would later impact her as a performance artist. With director, writer and editor Cheryl Dunye, we follow a journey of self-discovery as the protagonist researches the long-lost history of a black queer female actor from the 1940s in an attempt to reclaim the narrative. With one foot in the present and one foot in the past, this rom-com drama will have have you longing for the days of romance in the video rental stores while wondering if you should rent Aliens OR Carrie! And as always... be kind, rewind!
Tangents include: embarrassing Goggle searches, Camille Paglia, NEA censorship, feminist film group break ups, Georgia O'Keeffe's "vagina" paintings, witchyness of art making
For more information about Julia's studio practice, check out his website https://julialandois.com/ and Instagram @jblandois
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
The Birdcage (1996) with Anthony Sonnenberg
Is it Goldman or Coleman??? Find out as we explore Anthony Sonnenberg's favorite movie The Birdcage, starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane. While an impressionable youth, Anthony watched this film for first time on a family road trip, allowing him to see a gay couple represented as something aspirational, with body positivity, bubbly personalities and a passion for "heat". While talking with Anthony about his interest in functionally decedent sculptures, we promise that you too will giggle all the way through this quote by quote examination of this beloved movie that will have you screaming, "Fuck the shrimp!".
Tangents include: family road trips, Phyllis Schlafly, conservative comedians, Matt Gaetz, thongs in South Beach, la petite mort, Nancy Whitenack at Conduit Gallery in Dallas, cannibalism
For more information about Anthony's studio practice, check out his website http://www.anthonysonnenberg.com/ and Instagram @anthonysonnenberg.
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Orlando (1992) with Keer Tanchak
Defy aging and death with Heyd and Erin as they discuss this gender bending movie Orlando with Keer Tanchak, a Dallas-based artist who uses historical references in her delicately textured paintings on chunky aluminum surfaces. In this film, we discuss symbolism, colonization and gendered expectations with Orlando's transition from male to female halfway through the story that spans from 1600-present day. With every wink and nod, this delicious film captured a fresh perspective on sexual ambiguity and social hierarchies and we know you will enjoy every drop from the sexually suggestive tea kettle!
Tangents include: butterfly metamorphosis, Freaky Friday, Cottagecore, G.W. Bush paintings, art school critiques, bourgeoisie ennui, gender reveal parties, orgasms and painting, Billy Zane celebrity encounter!
For more information about Keers's studio practice, check out his website http://www.keertanchak.com/news_1.html and Instagram @keertanchak
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Conan the Barbarian (1982) with Joshua Goode
Its time to dust off your bear skin rugs and listen to our guest Joshua Goode as we bulk up for our discussion about this action-packed film Conan the Barbarian. This cult classic has inspired Joshua to interrogate historical artifacts through on-site performances whereby his sculptures are unearthed to questions our understanding of historical reality. Be prepared for a deep dive into a treasure trove of cinematic artifices that will leave you feeling like you too can start a snake cult and punch a slutty camel in the face.
Tangents include: Joseph Beuys, Arnold Schwarzenegger getting attacked by dogs, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Atkins diets, Oliver and Roger Stone mix-up, Texas pyramids in Germany, shit talking Jeff Koons
For more information about Joshua's studio practice, check out his website https://www.joshuagoode.com/ and Instagram @joshua_goode
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
Angel Heart (1987) with Andrea Tosten
Light some candles and join hands with Heyd and Erin was we descend to the the depths of Angel Heart with Dallas-based artist Andrea Tosten. Angel Heart explores taboo themes such as Voodooism and Satanism to uncover the mystery of a missing person named Johnny Favorite. With the discovery of several heinous murders in New Orleans, the detective Harry Angel gets wrapped up in the dark arts, blood rituals and frankly more deviled egg than he can chew.
Tangents include: epistolary novels, Satanic Panic, Jinco jeans, high school devil possession, artificial fingernails, Pee-wee Herman, Black Venus, Lisa Bonet Interviews
For more information about Andrea's studio practice, check out her website http://a-scribe.squarespace.com/ and Instagram @ascribe1.
Here is a list of books that Andrea references in the episode: Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart, Dracula by Bram Stoker, The Screwtape Letters by Bram Stoker, The Color Purple by Alice Walker, Tell My Horse and Mules and Men by Zora Neale Hurston
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies
The Andromeda Strain (1971) with Christopher Blay
Heyd and Erin spiral down a plastic sealed laboratory with Christopher Blay to explore a movie that has inspired many of his experimental exhibitions. The Andromeda Strain is a film based on a Michael Crichton book that reveals the world as intensely vulnerable with an outbreak of an extraterrestrial microorganism, forcing scientists to thoroughly decontaminate before they begin their quest to discover the antidote.
Tangents include: Heyd's dream job as FLOTUS, Leonardo di Vinci, beautiful failure, Christopher's job as a photo-booth technician, shit talking Tom Sachs For more information about
Christopher's studio practice, check out his website https://www.christopherblay.com/ and Instagram @artist_c_blay
Follow us on Instagram @artists.talk.movies