Art Ladders: The Creative Climb
By Valerie Allen and Armin Mersmann
Art Ladders: The Creative ClimbFeb 01, 2022
Episode 72: The Audaciously Creative Amy Keever
I met Amy Keever at the wonderful ADC Fine Art Gallery in Cincinnati. We were both attending the 2023 Art Summit led by our past podcast guest Litsa Spanos and her sister, Sylvia Rombis. She walked in with the most wonderful hot pink pom-pom earrings and white artist smock and I, of course had to comment. That's all it took for us to hang out for 3 days before the Art Comes Alive Gala. Amy ended up winning Best of Show for that exhibit with her unique style. What a night.
Here is more about Amy in her own words:
"As long as I can remember I have had a passion for artistic expression and love the idea of challenging mediums in ways they aren't exactly created to be used- I love the play of hard and soft , like choosing to manipulate concrete to have a tenderness and elegance, painting in oils to give a work translucency and welding my sculptures that are actually quite strong to have a sense of delicacy. Somehow intuitively, I have chosen to embrace the road less traveled in both the way I think and the creative choices I make on a daily basis. I love to educate young artists on how I work as I don't think its typically a process they've seen before and have mentored young adults for many years now through teaching them an artform or giving them a chance to exhibit in a professional setting and experiencing all parts of being an artist."
Amy is launching a new podcast called "Creatively Audacious" in May with the mission to spread kindness and happiness. She is definitely an #artistshelpingartists person.
She also has a feature in the international "Where Women Create" magazine releasing on April 30th. Be sure to check it out.
Enjoy Episode 72 and our time with Amy!
Show Notes
Episode 71: The Ebb and Flow of Passion in Your Art Life.
Passion can be elusive and it is always a good thing to consider how you can find your muse when times seem rough or even dull. Armin and Val approach art making as a relationship that needs to be cultivated and held in esteem. Let us know how you keep passion alive in the studio.
Show Notes:
Workshops for the Summer:
Armin at Atelier in April now 20% off until April 12.
Valerie at Grosse Pointe Artists Association for a two-day Print-a-thon.
Creative 360 Experimental Drawing Workshop with Val and Armin
Episode 70: Jeannette MacDougall and Living Life as an Artist. Travel, Teaching, Creating
We met Jeannette MacDougall during an exhibition at Calvin College's (106) Gallery at ArtPrize 2015. In this exhibit "Weighing the Landscape", installed by curator Joel Zwart, Jeanette, Armin and I were hanging next to each other. Our friendship began during that time as we all felt our artwork had a very cohesive aesthetic and professionalism.
Jeannette now resides in Texas and continues her travels and artist residencies across the nation and internationally.
Her background in being the director in France for the art residency program of the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts has given her the expertise to not only pursue her own residency goals but also advise artist who are looking to pursue that lifestyle in their art practice. She also hosts teaching workshops in the countryside of the south of France and in Scotland.
"I am an Artist-Painter on a gypsy sojourn. I seek the solitude of the landscape; content to travel the distance through my work to capture what I long for; a sanctuary in nature. I come away with what I can carry in memory and inspiration." states Jeannette.
I am a contemporary artist who works in a multitude of mixed paint mediums. My process culminates in the studio but the joyful inspiration comes from seeking out a piece of the landscape that stops me in my tracks. Like a hunter I observe what is hidden. It is in the underbrush and the dark beauty in nature that appeals to me. Dead limbs, fallen trees are evidence of our impermanence. Perfection is unreal but the imperfect is perfectly beautiful. I build fresco-like paintings in plaster on birch wood panels which can handle the distress of marred surfaces. The application of various layers and removal of pigment is not unlike an excavation. I search for the undiscovered strata beneath the surface only to leave it be and carefully move on to new ground.
Southwest School of Art, San Antonio Texas / Graduate of Parsons School of Art NYC / Trinity University SA Texas
Jeannette's Plein Air Workshop in Roane, France is June 11 - 18. You can email her for all the details.
Show Notes:
Res Artis: Worldwide network of Arts Residencies
Artist Communities Alliance for artist residencies.
Episode 69: Revisit our Number One episode with Artist Sally Hirst.
We've been creating this podcast over two years and it's fun to check out the rankings. Here we have a replay of our #1 episode to date with UK artist Sally Hirst while we are installing a new exhibition.
Sally has boundless energy and you can't help but get fired up for your own art as you listen to this replay. She is an artist, teacher, and mentor. She works in painting, collage, printmaking and mixed media. Her use of texture and pattern in her work gives it a global aesthetic that is timely and universal.
Sally Hirst is currently based at her studio in Norwich, UK – where she also co-coordinates an exhibition space called oneuppergoat. She is a Certified Golden Artist Educator and teaches online courses titled Pushing Paint, Urban Explorations , Discover Collagraphy, and Approaches to Abstraction to students worldwide.
Click here to read more on Sally's website.
Visit Sally's Instagram Account by clicking here.
Facebook Page for Sally Hirst Artist and Tutor
Here are links to artists mentioned by Sally in the podcast.
Instagram for artist Daryl Burtnett
Instagram for Nicholas Wilton
Instagram for Louise Fletcher
Instagram for Alice Sheridan
Episode 21: Conversation with artist Sally Hirst
As well as being a professional artist educated to Masters level, Sally is also a qualified teacher with many years of teaching experience. She currently teaches a range of online courses that enable her to reach students at all stages of their creative journey, worldwide from her studio in the UK.
Sally Hirst is currently based at her studio in Norwich, UK – where she also co-coordinates an exhibition space called oneuppergoat. She is a Certified Golden Artist Educator and teaches online courses titled Pushing Paint, Urban Explorations , Discover Collagraphy, and Approaches to Abstraction to students worldwide.
Click here to read more on Sally's website.
Visit Sally's Instagram Account by clicking here.
Facebook Page for Sally Hirst Artist and Tutor
Here are links to artists mentioned by Sally in the podcast.
Instagram for artist Daryl Burtnett
Instagram for JFK Turner
Instagram for Karen Stamper
Instagram for Nicholas Wilton
Instagram for Louise Fletcher
Instagram for Alice Sheridan
Instagram for David Mankin
Instagram for Jane Davies
Episode 68: Time in Real Time
Finding time to create artwork can be a real challenge just for one artist in the family. This becomes even more challenging when others depend on you as a family member, studio group or community. Events appear, marketing needs to be processed, household chores get in the way and the never-ending pick up and drop off of artwork to exhibits. In themselves these are all worthy and even celebratory activities but when your intent is to wake up and get in the studio as fast as you can, well, then you experience the rub.
In this episode, Armin and Val discuss ways to handle the stress and offer coping skills to make the extracurricular activities that artists participate in joyful. It's not always sunshine and lollipops but we are finding ways to not turn positives into negatives. We hope you enjoy this episode.
Episode 67: Conversation with artist Kenneth Hershenson
Artist Kenneth Hershenson found his muse in a set of ball and jacks that qualifies him to say, he does know Jack! So much so that he feels he has enough conceptual ideas to keep him painting for another 20 paintings or so.
In this episode we hear the many twists and turns he took in his career. Those bends taught him lots about the business of art as well as honed a work ethic that values clean and concise professionalism combined with a communication style that is natural to teach other artists. He will be announcing summer workshops in painting with acrylics, in particular, slow drying acrylics.
Kenneth Hershenson is a contemporary fine artist who creates photorealistic acrylic paintings. He has been painting and drawing for over 50 years. The majority of those years were spent teaching himself how to paint and draw and taking workshops from some notable West Coast artists: Eric Weigardt and Lee Wexler (watercolor), Butch Krieger (life drawing), Ned Mueller (portraiture and gouache), and Ann Kullberg and Gary Greene (colored pencil). Kenneth’s artistic approach is rooted in the twin disciplines of realism and illustration. Architectural design and illustration are the basis of much of his professional life, which included serving as an architectural designer with Disneyland and designing Japan stores for Starbucks while living in Seattle. His art influences include 17th century Flemish realists, the creativity and surrealistic styles of Dali and Magritte as well as the craftsmanship and humor of early Donald Roller Wilson.
Kenneth has participated in many juried art shows and has won a number of awards in watercolor, drawing and painting. His acrylic painting A Pair of Jacks has won several People’s Choice Awards and a Best in Show Award. It also won an Honorable Mention in the December 2015 issue of The Artist’s Magazine. His most recent painting, Pepper Jack Cheese, won the People's Choice Award in the 2023 Richeson75 International Still Life & Floral Competition. The first 5 paintings in the “I DO Know Jack!” series was in the final Top 25 Public Vote (out of nearly 1,000 entries) in ArtPrize 7, the largest international art competition and exhibition.
Kenneth is a member of the National Oil & Acrylic Painters' Society and the International Guild of Realism. He also teaches acrylic painting at the Atelier School of Art in Royal Oak, Michigan.
Follow Kenneth on Instagram to learn the latest news on his classes, workshops, exhibits, and awards.
Show notes:
Kenneth Hershenson's Instagram
International Guild of Realism
National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society
Thank you to our sponsor: Golden Apple Studio and Residency
Episode 66: Working the Room for Artists
Get ready for a java-sipping chat with Val and Armin in Episode 66! These two art aficionados spill the beans on networking for artists - from schmoozing the room to FaceTiming with fellow creatives. We all know that feeling of stage fright and self-doubt that can hit when we enter a room full of art-world movers and shakers. But fear not! It's all about how we show up and make the most of opportunities. Val and Armin share some great tips on how to ace events, whether they're in-person or virtual. Plus, they discuss how to build a community of like-minded artists. Let's keep the conversation brewing - tell us your networking secrets.
Here is the collection of online classes that Val and Armin are teaching starting in February. The Art Ladders Online Class Collection
Episode 65: Secrets of the Art World with Litsa Spanos
Driven by a passion for art and the desire to bring beauty into as many homes, healthcare facilities, and corporate offices as possible, Litsa Spanos opened the doors of Art Design Consultants, Inc. (ADC) thirty years ago. With just two clients and limited space, her ultimate goal was to create exquisite and inspiring environments. Litsa has an uncanny ability to select beautiful artwork and discover talented artists for her clients. This success has lead her to amass a desirable collection of fine art for a wide range of clientele.
Her vision continues to grow even bigger, opening a 13,000 square foot mega-gallery and framing facility in the West End of Cincinnati.
As the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, ADC currently ranks in the top 2% of all women-owned business in the nation. Thanks to her company’s continued success, Litsa is uniquely positioned to support many nonprofit organizations that she cares passionately about.
Valerie and Armin brought their questions to Litsa in this episode on the business of art. As an industry expert, she has answers that only someone in the field would have. This is valuable information for Art Ladders' listening audience of artists and art lovers.
Thank you, Litsa, for sharing your knowledge and time with us for Episode 65. Here's to a prosperous 2024!
Show Notes:
ADC Fine Art in Cincinnati, Ohio Website
Secrets of the Art World by Litsa Spanos
SmartSell Artists led by Litsa Spanos
Episode 64: Word of the Year for 2024
Art Ladders is excited to announce that 2024 will be guided by the word, prosper. We intend to flourish and thrive by creating new habits that will benefit our art, finances and health.
In this episode a review of habits to help us prosper will be examined. We talk about the importance of planning ahead and dreaming big. A practical list of doable habits is attributed to, Ruben Chavez, who maintains the Instagram page, @thinkgrowprosper. There will be a Pinterest link to the list in our show notes.
Well, it's a brand new year and we are looking forward to sharing our journey with you all. Our studio is expanding and by springtime there will be a gallery space that will be open by appointment. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for announcements regarding this progress.
Let us know your plans for 2024. We can keep each other accountable while showing support. It's going to be a great year!
Show Notes
Book by Litsa Spano: Secrets of the Art World
Pinterest link of "Habits to Help You Prosper" List by Ruben Chavez
Valerie's Second Sunday of the Month Mentoring Group
Armin's First Tuesday of the Month Mentoring Group
Episode 63: A Bucket Full of Questions with Val and Armin
With over 30 questions collected over that past years of the podcast, Val and Armin draw five specific questions from their sunflower bowl to answer in this end-of-the-year episode.
Diving in to teaching and communication styles of artists to keeping a budget, you will learn areas that artists need to know for success. Val and Armin are very honest in what they do best and what they need to work on.....think budget.
By showing vulnerability, they are honest about imposter syndrome appearing during tough times and how they handle advice that may not be welcomed at the time but prove to be correct in the future.
Enjoy this episode and Art Ladders with Val and Armin wish you all a very happy holiday and peaceful New Year for 2024. Thank you for all your support of Art Ladders and our art careers.
Here is our Linktree Bio with more information.
Episode 62: Chasing the Deadline
We have spent the last few days working on the exhibit, Contemporary Realism with artists Frits Hoendervanger, Robert Shefman, Todd Burroughs and curated by Armin for Buckham Gallery in Flint. Armin and I work as a team for these major events in our lives. There is framing, marketing, delivery and just overall hard work involved in reaching the deadline. Being under pressure and maintaining a sane and cordial married life can be challenging. During this podcast we work through some of the emotions we go thru during the rush to complete the tasks. Deadlines are a fact of life for artists working toward goals and hopefully you will get some tips on how to go with flow.
Armin's exhibit opens Friday, December 8 from 6-9pm at Buckham Gallery in Flint. There is an Artwork that will be happening the same evening. Hope to see you there.
Show Notes:
December Artwork Downtown Flint
Episode 61: Conversation with Michele Leclaire of Buckham Gallery
Here is contact information for Buckham Gallery.
121 W Second StreetFlint, MI 48502(810) 239-6233info@buckhamgallery.org
Show notes
Buckham Gallery Website
Episode 60: Being Personal with Your Creative Process
Looking within and revealing the personal reasons you create art can be a meaningful way to connect with your collectors, audience and yourself. Art is influenced by so many subtle interactions in our day to day life and it is worth making note of those experiences and weaving them into your story.
Armin and I were recently inspired by an Instagram reel we viewed from @SAB.GalleryCollection. It featured producer and author, Rick Rubin. He is the author of the 2023 release titled "The Creative Way: A Way of Being". In the video, Rick explains (and I'm paraphrasing), "If you want to live in a creative way, which will benefit everything in your life, you need to make it great by being personal. Being personal in all its imperfections and all its quirkiness, makes it great and how you see the world". This theme resonated with us both.
By taking a cue from this riff by Rick Rubin, we discussed how being more personal has made an appearance in our own art. Were there opportunities we missed by not revealing ourselves, of course there have been some. But when we made the leap to follow our hearts, be authentic, and have the courage to reveal the real reasons, we made ground in our art making.
We are hoping this episode that artists will be conscious of when they are making their art with their personality, tastes and backgrounds in the forefront. Stronger art will come out of those sessions and courage will lead to rewards.
Some show notes from the episode:
Rick Rubin: "The Creative Act: A Way of Being"
Armin's Mastrius Mentor Group Open to Join
Valerie's mastrius Mentor Group Open to Join
Art Ladders Patreon Page for Podcast Membership Support
Give us a cup of symbolic coffee if this episode resonates with you! :)
Episode 59: Conversation with Art Writer and Storyteller John Seed
On Tuesday, October 17, 2023, we had the honor and pleasure to interview author, John Seed via Zoom from his home base on the Central California Coast. He defines himself as an art writer and we would add storyteller with rich experiences in the world of art that tell all the sides of the art coin. From taking the path of an art student, to MFA, to gallery driver, collector, curator, installation team member, art professor, to author, he has done it all and uses all the facets to his advantage in his writings.
He has written for the art section of Huffington Post, Hyperallergic, a round the clock online art newsletter, Arts of Asia and other fine publications. His books include My Art World: Recollections and Other Writings, Disrupted Realism: Paintings for a Distracted World, and his most recent book More Disruption: Representational Art in Flux. He was the recipient of a Society of Professional Journalist's award in art and entertainment writing.
For over three decades John Seed taught Studio Art and Art History at Mount San Jacinto College. He also taught Modernism at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena and Theory and Criticism for the MFA program at Laguna College of Art and Design. Since 2013 John has served on the board of the Sam Francis Foundation and am currently serving as the President of Greenspace: The Cambria Land Trust.
Here is a video interview with John Seed titled "My Non-Tragic Backstory".
John is also teaching an online class called Art Criticism for Artists through the Penn Studio School of Art. Val will be taking this class starting in January and is looking forward to hearing more from John. Check out the link above to learn more about this class.
Thank you, John for spending time with us and sharing your knowledge and stories. By the way, he invites our audience to email him at johnseed@gmail.com with questions and comments on any of his books. He is generous and kind with his correspondence and you will be richer by sharing an email with him. Enjoy this episode!
Episode 58: Making a Living as an Artist
Val and Armin's experience highlights an important issue for artists looking for work that allows them to pursue their creative passions. While jobs in art-related professions can provide valuable experience and insights into the art world, they can also be demanding and time-consuming, leaving little time and energy for personal artistic pursuits.
Here are some additional points to consider when seeking employment as an artist:
- Consider part-time or freelance work: If you're looking for a job that will allow you to continue creating art, consider part-time or freelance work that can be done on a flexible schedule. This can give you the time and space you need to focus on your artistic practice.
- Look for jobs with creative flexibility: While some art-related jobs can be restrictive in terms of creative freedom, there are others that offer more flexibility. For example, working as a graphic designer or illustrator can allow you to exercise your creative skills while also earning a steady income.
- Don't be afraid to explore non-art related jobs: As Armin mentioned, sometimes it can be easier to have a job that is completely unrelated to art, in order to leave time and energy for your personal artistic pursuits. Don't be afraid to explore non-art related jobs that offer a steady income and a reasonable work-life balance.
- Network with other artists: Building relationships with other artists can be a great way to learn about job opportunities and get advice on how to balance work and art. Attend local art events, join online communities, and participate in workshops and classes to meet other artists and expand your network.
- Prioritize self-care: No matter what kind of job you have, it's important to prioritize self-care in order to maintain your energy and creativity. Make time for rest and relaxation, and don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals when needed.
Val and Armin enjoy using a casual "coffee talk" style in this episode that includes spontaneous and personal segments. They invite their audience to share their job experiences, which can benefit aspiring artists and provide interesting stories for those already in the field.
Thank you for listening!
Show Notes:
Join Valerie's Mentor Group (Second Sunday of Every Month 4pm Eastern.)
Join Armin's Mentor Group (First Tuesday of the Every Month 6pm Eastern.)
Here Is Fong Choo's website. He is an award winning potter who does beautiful clay work. Val was thrilled to help pick up his work for an exhibit at Midland Center for the Arts.
Episode 57: Conversation with artist Kristen Palana
Lilongwe, Malawi in Southeastern Africa is indeed a long, long way away and we are happy to travel over the Zoom waves to visit with artist, designer, educator and mentor, Kristen Palana. Valerie met Kristen virtually a few months ago as a student in Kristen's Web Presence and Social Media Marketing class through Mastrius.com. Through Mastius, Kristen, Armin and Val are now colleague mentors with many other artists across the globe. It's a great opportunity to bring collective art knowledge to our podcast.
Kristen's artist statement is rich with optimism and positivity contrasted with bringing awareness to the reality of our planet.
“I draw the world not as it is but how I wish it could be. Inspired by the lofty mission statements and development goals used by the world's top organizations, my images can be used to imagine better outcomes for our lives, communities, and the planet. I'm currently developing a body of drawings that move beyond making creative visualizations at the individual level to expand to include the larger global community.
I use symbols, icons, and patterns with cross-cultural significance combined with color psychology to help soothe, heal, and reinvigorate weary idealists. My backgrounds are not always content to remain quietly in the background. Through highly charged color choices, energetic lines, and regional and global textile patterns commonly made by and for women, these backgrounds sometimes ask nicely and other times demand with exasperation to be seen, heard, accepted, and appreciated.” - Kristen Palana
You will hear Kristen describe how this is a "move year" for their family. It is the year where they find out the next adventurous location they will live and make home. That process can be daunting and exhilarating but always unpredictable. She and her husband are providing a lifestyle for their sons that will send them into adult life well prepared to adapt and excel. Very exciting times ahead for Kristen! We wish her all the very best.
Here are show notes to learn even more about Kristen Palana and her art and life.
Kristen's Mastrius Information
Al-Tiba9 Contemporary Art Interview with Kristen Palana
Episode 56: Comparing Yourself to Others
Comparing yourself to other artists means that you are evaluating your own abilities, qualities, or achievements in relation to those of artists. This can involve looking at someone who you perceive as better than you in some way, or someone who you believe is worse off than you in some aspect. This type of comparison can have both positive and negative effects on your self-esteem and personal growth. On one hand, it can motivate you as an artist to work harder and strive for self-improvement. On the other hand, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and low self-esteem if you constantly feel like you're falling short in comparison to others. It's important to remember that everyone is on their own journey and has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it's not always helpful to compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on your own progress and growth, and celebrate your successes along the way.
Show Notes
Upcoming Mentorship Group with Val starting October 8th
Join Armin's Mentorship Group here.
Val's Abstraction Now! Class starts October 4th. Register here
Episode 55: Conversation with Larry Butcher
On a beautiful August afternoon we had the pleasure to talk with artist and mentor, Larry Butcher. This conversation proceeds to tell a story of a young man coming to age on a rural Michigan farm with a father who expected his children to be navigators of inventive thinking and a mother who encouraged her young ones to be makers. Creative thinking and hard work was the norm and from that Larry became a visual artist and art educator, who to this day believes in the sharing of artistic knowledge.
Larry Butcher has a Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Education from Central Michigan University and continued art studies at Cranbrook Academy of Art in Detroit. His background includes sign painting, teaching art in the Mount Pleasant School System as well as a long career as professor of art at Delta College. In the episode you will hear Larry speak of his amazing connections to artists Charles Breed and Russell Thayer, who both shaped Larry's position at Delta College which went for a 39 year run.
He is well-known as a prolific painter who developed unique shaped canvas paintings as well as wonderful drawings as an amazing draughtsman. He has work in many corporate and private collections. We will be posting images on our Art Ladders: The Creative Climb Facebook Page.
Episode 54: It's Showtime! How to Navigate Show Proposals
We are nearing the time when galleries and art centers announce their exhibition line up for 2023-2024. This process involves not only reviewing proposals sent by artists but also planning logistics such as funding, delivery and installation. Artists can choose different ways to seek out exhibitions but the most common are submitting online proposals, word of mouth, or starting a relationship with the venues. Val and Armin have done all those different approaches and in this episode they share stories that relate to the ins and outs of obtaining solo or groups shows. It takes perseverance and a bit of courage to make those connections. Once a show is granted then comes all the elements of planning a delivery and framing budget, timing, marketing, and creation of events related to the show. Solo and group shows can be excellent exposure for artists that leads to sales and recognition. However it is important not to become discouraged if the reward doesn't come immediately. It can ofter take months for some contacts to be made.
Valerie and Armin will be showing together at Van Singel Fine Arts Center in Byron Center, Michigan from September 5-October 12 with a reception on Saturday, September 23 from 12:30pm - 2:30pm. Valerie will be exhibiting with Tim Ricketts and Todd Burroughs at the new Jefferson Road location of Creative 360 in Midland from September 8 - October 15. The opening reception will be September 8, 7-8:30pm.
Here are a few links to venues and art schedules ahead.
Van Singel Fine Arts Center where Val and Armin will have a two-person exhibit.
Creative 360 in Midland, Michigan where Val will be exhibiting.
Information on upcoming Abstraction Workshop at Creative 360 with Valerie Allen.
Episode 53: The Story of Mastrius
Creativity, community and mastery are the trio of words that best describe the online community for artists that Mike and Julie deBoer founded along with Victor Lee in Canada. Mastrius is now serving artists in 29 countries through an online mentor program that connects aspiring, emerging and accomplished artists with masters who provide feedback, motivation, and encouragement through online sessions.
As mentors with Mastrius, Val and Armin were anxious to share a conversation with Julie and Mike. This is a chance to hear the origin story of the company and learn more about Mastrius' exciting growth and future. The unique model of providing artists across the globe the chance to learn face to face with art mentors via Zoom encourages a community that is dedicated to mastering artistic competence in a supportive, noncompetitive atmosphere. It truly provides a niche for artists looking to hone their skills in the comfort of their studios and home and along the way the artists become part of a connected community of like-minded creatives.
Here is information on Mike and Julie through their bios posted on the Leadership Team page of the Mastrius website.
Julie deBoer
Julie is a professional artist, instructor, and business owner with intuitive skills in branding, marketing, and messaging. She has successfully built a career as an artist, achieving professional status and gallery representation with over 6 galleries in her first 10 years as an artist. She has worked with a variety of charitable and non-profit organizations, creating and leading many grassroots teams over the past 20 years. She has also had the unique opportunity to spend over a decade establishing and growing a new church in inner city Calgary.
Julie’s belief that each of us has a responsibility (and privilege) to give a leg-up to those around us, is at the heart of Mastrius. She is pleased to ensure it is knit into the company’s very DNA. Julie serves as Chief Messaging Officer and Co-Founder of Mastrius.
Mike deBoer
Years of seeing people struggle with inexperience and isolation caused by our technology-saturated culture sparked Mike’s passion for changing the world one person at a time. After successfully leading teams of 100+ people, executing projects worth $250M+, leading several organizational mergers, Mike left behind his career in oil & gas executive-level management to pursue his vision to restore an ethos of people-helping people.
A life-long student of leadership best practices, Mike is known as a leader who is empowering, effective, engaged, and possessing the highest integrity. He’s worked hard to earn the title of Alberta’s Strongest Man on numerous occasions and was 2016 Western Canada’s Strongest Natural Man. Mike has grown into a tenacious and visionary entrepreneur who believes the path to growth, to mastery of great skills, is never more successful than when journeying alongside a seasoned traveller. Mike serves as Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Mastrius.
Programs through Mastrius include mentorships available with master artists, opportunities to exhibit and sell art in Mastrius online exhibitions, attend art events online, access an online library of instructional events, and be part of an extensive chat community via messaging and online face to face conversations.
Show Notes
Video with Julie on How Mastrius Started
The Mastrius Experience Video
Episode 52: Gallery Talk with Jane and Kelly Littlefield
Visiting Littlefield Gallery is a highlight in any artist or art lover's time in Maine. It is located in Winter Harbor, a small fishing town on the Schoodic National Scenic Byway. Armin and Valerie had the pleasure of visiting Littlefield Gallery while attending a Golden Apple Residency less than an hour away from the gallery. On the very first visit, they struck up a friendship with Kelly and Jane Littlefield. Now, that can sound like a far-fetched thought that artists just walk into a gallery and have an instant rapport with the owners, but if you ever meet Kelly and Jane, you will understand that relationship building is a way of life for them both.
They live and breathe promoting art as they literally live in their gallery. This combination of live and work space has always been appealing to both Val and Armin. It is not unusual to hear the washer and dryer running as you view the art or smelling delicious aromas from the kitchen of the Main House Gallery as you explore the different levels of the main house built in 1891 . You'll hear stories in this episode about how they offered an exhibiting artist a chance to do their laundry on the spot! But it does not have a homespun aesthetic in either the main house or the detached exhibition space, the vibe is contemporary, museum-like with wonderful lighting and open space between paintings as well as a very tasteful collection of sculptures inside and out.
This adventure started thirteen years ago for Kelly and Jane, who came into the gallery world with their background in education combined with a passion for collecting art. That passion is contagious and they represent artists with connections to Maine in particular. The beauty for those artists is that Kelly and Jane use their relationship building skills and finesse to treat each of them like family and friends. It's a beautiful moment to hear Jane talk about a particular artist with love and fondness. Collectors can't help but want to purchase the art and learn as much as they can about the chosen artist.
The exhibition space, which is detached from the historical New England style house, was custom designed to feature two-person shows. Kelly talks about curating two artists that encourage a compare and contrast conversation with the viewers. By displaying about a dozen works of art from each artist, you can see the complete exhibit in the long gallery as you enter the door or turn to each wall to study the individual artists closely. This narrow layout is a very engaging way to experience the exhibits.
Currently on display is the featured exhibit with Shelley N. Stevens and Barbara J. Zucker. This landscape-based show is a celebration of the power of the land and sea and how many times these paintings tell stories of life in a particular part of the country. Barbara J. Zucker is an artist, gallery director and art consultant who lives and works in Maine and Pennsylvania. Shelley N. Stevens is familiar to our audience as the artist and director from Golden Apple Studio and Residency in Harrington, Maine. Shelley divides her time between Maine and Michigan. You will hear from her as well in this episode.
We want to thank Jane, Kelly, and Shelley for their precious time recording this episode. Artists, please learn and take to heart, the words of wisdom from Kelly and Jane regarding approaching galleries. These insights from the gallery owners align with Art Ladders mission to provide best practice tips for artists in our audience.
Enjoy this conversation!
Show Notes
Exhibition feature Barbara J. Zucker and Shelley N. Stevens
Episode 51: Hold the Vision, Trust the Process
"Hold the Vision, Trust the Process" Author Unknown...Artists bring artwork into existence with determination, perseverance, and courage. Their original vision can go through many edits and transformation during the process. The day to day studio practice can be fulfilling and stressful all during the same project. Val and Armin discuss their own struggles and joys in being artists. Everyone's life is enriched by the many ways artists categorized as visual, performing and/or literary contribute original concepts that bring awareness, beauty, and life quality to the world.
Motivation for artists to continue this important work often begins early in an artist's life. This drive is made stronger as the artist studies, and bonds with other artists. Finding their artist community is important to keep the momentum alive and well. Artists also discover their "why" later in life when their schedules allow time for personal passions. This time period can be very fulfilling and rewarding for those artists.
If you are an artist, treaure your journey and be proud of your accomplishments. For friends, fans and family of artists, be thankful you have them in your lives and let them know you admire their imagination. The world needs art more than ever to help us process emotions and improve mental health.
Show notes:
Acrylic Painting Lecture at Golden Apple Residency, Downeast Maine, Wednesday, July 12, 2:30pm
Drawing in Detail Workshop, Studio 23, Bay City, MI with Armin Mersmann
Contour Drawing Workshop, Studio 23, Bay City, MI with Armin Mersmann
Episode 50: The Healing Power of Art with artist Audrey Phillips
Episode 50 is a conversation with artist Audrey Phillips. We learn more about Audrey and her beautiful acrylic paintings and her incredible journey through life that included both dark and light, tragedy and triumph.
Audrey received her Bachelor of Fine Art from the University of Florida. Audrey has exhibited in solo and group shows in Florida, where she currently lives, Georgia, North Carolina, Minnesota, Michigan, California, Texas, New Mexico and New York. Her work is can be found in corporate and private collection in the United States and internationally. In 2019, 54 of her paintings were acquired by the University of Tampa for permanent installation in their newly renovated Southard Family Building.
Audrey states, "My art practice started quite by accident—a collision of tragedy and creative healing. In 2000, I started painting faces that were somewhat representational but mostly raw, darkly expressive and strangely abstracted. This work sprang forth from a deep loss. In my search to heal, my newly formed art practice became a visual healing process. After this ten-year journey, I started painting abstractly. This abstract work allowed me to tap into the internal energy I had learned to access through my yoga and meditation practice that also started in the year 2000," in an interview for Arts on Douglas.
Audrey's paintings are expressive, bold and large, with beautiful colors and gestural mark making. Nature is her primary springboard and she often works in diptychs or two panels that symbolize the duality of life, the yin and yang, the light and dark. Her influences of artists are Joan Mitchell, Cecily Brown, and Willem de Kooning.
Audrey teaches week-long workshops throughout the country. Her teaching style includes sharing her lifestyle with students. This includes the practice of meditation combined with full sessions of painting. The students work large in spacious studios in venues that have those types of facilities. This year she is teaching at Beverly Todd's Santa Fe Artist Getaway (you can hear more about this venue in our episode 46 with Beverly) and Paint Space NOLA in New Orleans. She accepts students after doing a portfolio review to make sure it is a good fit for intermediate to advanced painters. Check out the show notes for information on enrolling.
Many thanks to Audrey for sharing her story with us. This episode is a powerful testament to the power of art in regards to healing and uplifting your life.
Here are links with more information on Audrey.
Interview with Audrey by Arts on Douglas, a gallery in New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Article in Growing Bolder on Audrey Phillips (page 30)
Audrey's workshop at Santa Fe Getaway Dates: September 25-30.
Audrey's workshop at Paint Space NOLA Dates: November 6-11.
Episode 49: An Artful Summer
Join Val and Armin as they discuss setting intentions to keep your art practice engaged throughout the summer. Setting a few intentions of what you want to accomplish will help you stay focused but still have time to just relax and daydream. The trick is to keep your plans flexible and give yourself a lot of room for improvisation for some spontaneous experiences. These experiences can then pop up many years later and supply narratives for works of art or topics for ongoing series.
Summertime recommendations to keep in your radar!
Pack a travel set of art supplies. Could be as simple as a sketchbook and a pencil. Val likes to take a sketchbook, Sharpie pen, some charcoal, and oil pastels. Armin is a light packer with sketchbook and mechanical pencil. Some travels such as month-long stays or artist residencies can have a much bigger supply list, especially if you are driving.
Take time to daydream and/or just look at the clouds. Those quiet times yields future ideas.
While driving, be sure to leave time open to stop for photographs along the way. Great way to collect reference photos.
If staying home, spend some time making your studio just the way you want. This could mean organizing and cleaning or adding new equipment to your studio.
Continue your journals, if that is one of your rituals.
When going to museums and galleries, pace yourself. Smaller time periods in museums allows more retention of the memories.
Keep flexible. It's more important to collect experiences than sketches so be easy on yourself.
Show notes:
Your Brain on Art Written by: Susan Magsamen & Ivy Ross
Urban Sketchers: A Global Community of Artists
Travel supply ideas from My Modern Met
Littlefield Gallery with Jane and Kelly Littlefield
Intermediate and Advanced Online Drawing Class with Armin Starts Wed. May 24
Abstraction Now! Summer Session with Val Starts Wednesday, May 31
Episode 48: Conversation with Kelly Anne Powers of the Learn to Paint Podcast
It is our pleasure to introduce our audience to Kelly Anne Powers. We have listened and enjoyed her Learn to Paint Podcast throughout the year. Val connected with Kelly via Instagram and invited her to interview with us and she accepted! In the meantime, we learned that several of our listeners were already taking full advantage of Kelly's in-depth and practical painting episodes after we had shared her posts on our social media outlets. Now is our chance to get to know Kelly even better!
More about Kelly that we learned from her website which we will list in show notes below.
Kelly is a third generation artist. Her grandmother, Jan Kunz, taught watercolor workshops across the country and has written a half dozen books on the subject.
Her mother, artist Lynn Powers, started a business with her Dad, Jim, called Creative Catalyst Productions that brought live workshops to video format. Youtube wasn’t around yet. Growing up in that atmosphere of artistic process and marketing inspired Kelly to learn to paint and become an entrepreneur in the business of art.
She started the podcast with the goal of helping artists become better painters. By interviewing artists, primarily painters, she asks the questions we all want to know. How do painters work? How did they learn to paint? What advice do they have for other artists? Her interviews are formatted and produced with attention to details and leave listeners with lots of food for thought to ponder as they continue their journey in art. She also has a wonderful Art Club through Patreon with extra content and art challenges to reach for even higher heights as an artist. All of her projects have the stamp of quality and professionalism that attracted us to her podcast from the very beginning.
We encourage you to follow and subscribe to Kelly's Learn to Paint Podcast. You will be happy you did!
Learn to Paint Podcast Most Recent Episode
Learn to Paint Blog Post with Artist Mark Eanes on The Importance of Drawing
#20for20ArtChallenge Information here
Family background links:
Kelly's Grandmother, Jan Kunz Bio
Kelly's Mother, Lynn Powers website
Episode 47: Homage to My Father
In this episode, Armin and Val discuss the close relationship Armin had with his artist and author father. Their bond helped make Armin the artist he is today Stories about art lessons, studio practices and big dreams of art round out this episode and encourage us all to honor the pivotal guides and mentors we've had in our lives.
Fritz Mersmann came to this country in August of 1962. He was commissioned to create paintings for Zehnder's in Frankenmuth. Fritz was a professional visual artist until he was in his mid-fifties. He went on to write 5 manuscripts as an author. These manuscripts were never published but are valued by the family nonetheless.
Fritz's teachings to Armin have become an integral part of Armin's classes and he often breaks into a heavy German accent as Armin tells "Fritz Stories". Val's memories of an older Fritz and his wife Carolyn are told with a fondness for the couple's daily drives and lunches. She remembers Fritz as a huge personality full of charm and wit.
We hope you enjoy this homage to Armin's father or as Armin calls him even as a child, "Fritz".
Episode 46: Conversation with Beverly Todd of Santa Fe Artist Getaway
What a wonderful conversation we had with the effervescent artist and creative entrepreneur, Beverly Todd. It's always remarkable how much we find in common with other artists who are connecting all the dots with artists. Bev connects artists with workshop leaders and/or space to create their work either during a class setting or a totally independent on-site residency. And what better place to do that than the magical and artistically rich city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Put this on your bucket list and we will, too. We will lists links so you can see the details on connecting with Bev. In the meantime, here is short bio on this working artist, Beverly Todd!
Through large-scale abstract painting, Beverly interprets nature. Connects with ideas. And explores emotion. Her painting process is physical, using hardware-store brushes. Broken sticks. Rags. And hands. To move paint. To add layers. To pull back layers. To drip. To scrape and wipe. And to pull the paint across the surface.
Beverly grew up in rural American near Union, Nebraska. Often happily lost for hours in the open prairie landscape that inspires her work. Today, she paints in her Santa Fe, New Mexico, studio and takes cues from the high desert landscape. Wanting to give other creatives the same experience, Beverly opened Santa Fe Artist Getaway in 2019 - a place for all artists to stay, play, and create.
A former non-profit executive, now a creative entrepreneur, Beverly is a workshop leader and creativity coach, sharing her passion for exploration, adventure, and creativity. Blending her two passions – art and personal development – she founded TeamPaint , an innovative team-building workshop that uses arts-based learning. As teams paint together, they think strategically, build bonds and open communications.
Santa Fe Artist Getaway Website
Hans Hoffman: Color Creates Light
Episode 45: Art Mentors in Our Lives
Have you ever had a mentor or a coach who brought out the best in you and propelled you forward just from their belief in you? It is a wonderful transfer of energy that can be helpful in all works of life but especially so for artists as they navigate the creative process with emotional stamina. The definition of a mentor is an experienced and trusted advisor. Top qualities for an art mentor are great listening skills, amazing critique technique, and the mentor is passionate about art. Both Valerie and Armin have had mentors during their art careers. Armin speaks of his dad and artists Larry Butcher and Todd Burroughs. Larry was Armin's college prof who pushed him forward with strong critiques and work ethic influence and Todd was influential in developing positive people interactions by being a friend he could model his life after. Valerie was connected to her high school art teacher, Mrs. Morris way back in the day. Mrs. Morris believed in Val and stressed to her that anything was possible. Very empowering to hear as a teenager. Later in life while Val was going thru life changes and divorce she connected with art coach, Ghislaine Mahler. She introduced Val to Julia Cameron's Artist Way and Morning Pages that she still practices. This podcast topic came about to share a very special announcement that Valerie and Armin were selected to be mentors for Mastrius, an online global community for artists. It is full circle for them both and they are excited to start small groups soon online. This is where all the art skills and knowledge they have accumulated through the years can help other artists. Here are some show notes to study.
Armin's Mastrius Mentor Group starting May 2. Limited to 8 artists
Valerie's Mastrius Mentor Group starting May 2. Limited to 8 artists
Valerie's Art Coach Ghislaine Mahler
Ghislaine Mahler's Facebook Group: My Journey to Self-Mastery
Armin's friend and mentor Todd Burrough's Atelier School of Art
Episode 44: Conversation with painter Lewis Noble
Painter Lewis Noble shared an afternoon conversation with us and describes his working methods, his teaching philosophy and outlook on the art world. HIs motivational attitude truly guides him through his successful career as a full-time artist. As you listen, you will discover many of Lewis' thought processes to add to your own creative practice. He has strong opinions on painting what you want-- not what you think others want. This honest and authentic approach to art making serves him well and leads to paintings that are truly personal and expressive. Lewis teaches both online and in-person classes. He also leads a membership group that includes monthly prompts and spotlights for artists around the world. Many thanks to Lewis Noble for joining us for this podcast episode! Please share with other artists,
Episode 43: Start to Finish
So many questions reveal themselves as a painting or drawing comes to life. Val and Armin share a lively conversation on a snowy day in Michigan asking each other questions like how do you start and how do you know when you are finished? They each have predictably contrasting answers but there are definitely some overlaps and common thoughts. The tempo of creation has a different rhythm for each. Inspiration can come out of nowhere and the ending can also happen at any point of the journey. Deadlines can drive the completion but more often it is that knowing feeling an artist picks up when entering the studio from a good night's rest and saying, that's it!
Show Notes
Online Workshop with Valerie: Concept to Creation in Abstract Painting
Episode 42: Conversation with painter Jacqueline Sullivan
Meet painter, calligrapher, and teaching artist, Jaqueline Sullivan during an engaging conversation where we learn more about her art, travels, and classes.
Jacqueline Sullivan has been a teaching artist for 30 years and she loves to teach! She has had the honor to be invited to teach for Art Centers and Studios across North America as well as having been chosen as a faculty member for several International Calligraphy Conferences. Seeing the joy in a student’s face when they create something that pleases them brings Jacqueline much joy.
Mixed media, acrylic paints, calligraphy, bookbinding, and fiber arts - She has loved them all since she first discovered each medium. She has a degree in graphic design and worked for many years as a publication, marketing and advertising designer. But her passion has always been with color and paint, no matter what the surface.
Personal artistic development has been a lifeline as Jacqueline worked her way through the challenges life brought. Her mixed media, book art, calligraphic and acrylic work has been shown in galleries and top juried art fairs nationwide. She believes that asking “what if?” and keeping a spirit of adventure and discovery is important as she follows her creative path and attempts to create something original. Jacqueline experiments with texture, layers, marks, paint, and dyes as part of her process. She is a Certified Artist Educator for Golden Paints, an Ambassador for Ampersand, and she is on the education teams for Silver Brush and Marabu Creative.
This summer, Jacquline will be leading to painting workshops in Europe. The May workshop will be to France and the September workshop will be in Italy. You can learn more about the workshops in the show notes below.
Upcoming Workshops both online and in-person
Episode 41: Word of the Year: Courage
We are excited to announce our word of the year for 2023, and it is courage!
Last year our word of the year was discover and wow, we did just that. We made many discoveries in ways to up our game in producing art as well as increase our reach through our podcast and online classes. 2022 was a wonderful year of growth and we look forward to 2023.
We took some time to land on our new word for this coming year. We both agreed on the word "courage" to be our focus. Courage for artists is found in many ways. Everything from taking a chance on a new medium to taking on a speaking engagement as a juror or curator all require a confident attitude and a bit of courage to put yourself out there.
We discuss having the courage to make mistakes, join a new class, or introduce yourself to the world as an artist and really believe it.
The Creative Climb takes courage step by step to reveal personal stories in artwork and present them to the audience without knowing in advance the reactions that will be voiced. We encourage all artists to embrace taking chances and pushing their comfort zones to the max. We also encourage artists to come up with their own Word of the Year.
Show Notes:
Art Ladders: The Creative Climb Facebook Page
Online Exhibit "Sanctuary" Grosse Pointe Artist Association. Armin Mersmann: Best of Show with Aggregate.
Valerie Allen's New Workshop Just Announced! Register here for two-day Concept to Creation Workshop.
Episode 40: Residency 2023
We are joined by fellow artists, Barb Hranilovich, Sal Strom along with a clip from James Steigenga. Sal is a multi-media artist from the coast of Oregon, Barb has worked as a commercial artist, illustrator and now an exhibiting artist, and James is an accomplished photographer who has the patience and timing to capture images that through the lens achieve the intent without filters or manipulation for the most part. These talented people were our studio mates during the August residency at Golden Apple. We shared many a meal with great art-themed conversations directed by Shelley Stevens the director of Golden Apple Residency. Our two weeks also included a day trip to take in the artistic locations in Downeast Maine that we will never forget.
If you have ever thought of participating in an artist residency, this episode along with episode 6 and 7 would be time well spent for a listen.
Show Notes:
Artist in Residence: Friends of the Porkies
Barb's representation at Nelson Gallery
Sal Strom's project "Connecting US 20"
Artist Communities Alliance to search for residencies.
Sitka Center for Art and Ecology
Sal's residency group at I-Park video
Virginia Center for the Creative Arts
New Residency Opportunity in South Carolina: South Porch Art Residency
Episode 39: What Makes a Good Painting and Happy New Year!
Here we are at 2023! Happy New Year and thank you to everyone who helped make 2022 a wonderful year for Art Ladders. Thanks to guests, our podcast producer Taylor Cramer of Cold Shower Media and our listeners! We appreciate you!
In this episode we reveal our resolutions for 2023 and discuss our top painting picks that have influenced us on our creative journeys.
Armin choose Le Gros by Franz Kline, Winter 1946 by Andrew Wyeth, and The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch.
Valerie choose Rouen Cathedral Series by Claude Monet, Paris Street-Rainy Day by Gustave Caillebotte, and Veil Series by Robert Rauschenberg.
Episode 38: The Artistic and Spiritual Journey of Pastor Jolin Wilks McElroy.
What a blessing to be with our friend, Jolin Wilks McElroy for a holiday conversation on art and spirituality. Jolin and Armin first met in the 1990s while working together at the art materials and frame store of Good's of Evanston. During her time working at Good's led Jolin to rethink her calling as a artist and pursue another path to attend a theological seminary for a Masters in Divinity.
Here is her bio in more detail:
Jolin Wilks McElroy has been Pastor at First Christian Church in Charlotte since July of 2000. During her tenure there, she has watched the congregation grow into presence in the Charlotte and Dilworth communities–branching out into service through the Dilworth Soup Kitchen, supporting many missions and outreach groups, and providing a meeting place for classes and events. She has also rejoiced as this church has been transformed by other cultural groups joining the congregation.
With a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Colorado State University in 1990, Jolin Wilks intended to paint for a living. The call to ministry challenged her to consider a new direction for her life. In 1995 she enrolled at Lexington Theological Seminary and received her Masters in Divinity in 1999. Rev. McElroy still finds some time to draw and paint while also serving the church in more traditional ways. In addition to gallery shows and auctions, First Christian Church has a display of her pastel portraits of church members lining the walls of the education building. Another exhibit, Holy Communion, a series of watercolor portraits of Disciples of Christ members and leaders, began traveling the denomination since the Fall of 2004.
Because of her dual vocations of art and ministry, she has been a desired speaker on the topic of creativity and spirituality for retreats and workshops. One significant endeavor was sketching portraits of 33 children of two Head Start programs for the benefit of their families, sponsored by The Craddock Center in Cherry Log, Georgia.
Prior to accepting the call to her current position, Rev. McElroy served as: Associate Minister to First Christian Church, Falls Church, VA (1998-2000); Chaplain Intern at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC (summer of 1998); and Pastor of First Christian Church, Carlisle KY (1995-1998). In addition to her work at First Christian, Rev. McElroy has been active in the life of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) at the regional level, and was the recipient of a Clergy Renewal Grant from The Lilly Endowment in 2004. Other organizations in which Rev. McElroy has been active include: Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice (CCCJ) 2014 – present, Crisis Assistance Ministry (2002-present); United Family Services (2001-2006); General Board of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in North Carolina (2001-05); North Carolina Regional Commission on Faith and Understanding (2001-02).
Born in Iowa City, IA, Jolin Wilks McElroy was raised in Mt. Prospect, IL, where her parents Alan and Irvana Wilks still reside. Rev. McElroy currently lives in Charlotte, NC, with her husband Tom and their young son.
We are honored that Jolin joined us for episode 39 of our podcast. During the interview you will hear her quote Frederick Buechner: “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet.” Art and ministry fulfill that for her.
Thank you very much, Jolin!
First Christian Church of Charlotte, North Carolina
Art + Faith by Makoto Fujimura
Registration is open for Art Ladders Virtual Winter term classes being taught by Val and Armin.
Episode 37: The Role of a Teaching Artist and Announcement of 2023 Teaching Schedule
Val and Armin have been teaching artists for over 30 years each. The role of the teaching artist is to ignite and inspire students, as well as to encourage them to explore their own creativity. Both feel that teaching has added dimension to their own art making through the research they study to create a class plan and the curiosity to explore new techniques and materials. Why does teaching art matter? It's in our DNA. Everyone is an artist. We all use art to express ourselves and the world around us. Artists teach others to understand the process of creation, and that makes them better problem solvers and communicators. Plus, it's fun!
We are excited to announce our new online art class schedule starting in January or 2023. These virtual classes will allow you to learn at a time and place that is convenient for you. We also have several in-person workshops scheduled around the state of Michigan and we would love to see you there! Listed below are links for registration.
Valerie's Online Class: Introduction to Abstraction (Three hour workshop)
Valerie's Online Abstraction Now! Class (Five Weeks)
Valerie's Free Facebook Group: Abstraction Now! Community
Armin's Online iPhoneography Experiments in Creativity
Armin's Online Intermediate and Advanced Drawing Class
Valerie's In-Person One Day Workshop: Acrylic Painting thru Thick and Thin
Valerie's In-Person Two Day Workshop: The Process Project at Atelier School of Art
Valerie's In-Person Two Day Workshop: Exploration in Abstraction at Grosse Pointe Art Center
Armin's Virtual Intermediate Drawing Weekly Class with Atelier School of Art
Episode 36: Connections at Wave Pool with Co-Founder and Executive Director Cal Cullen
This conversation with Cal Cullen, the co-founder and executive director of Wave Pool Art Center in Cincinnati was a reunion of sorts to catch up on the happenings of an art center near and dear to the hearts of Art Ladders. Since 2016, we have been following the fast growth of positivity that radiates from Cal and the team and we are always amazed about the creative programming that is a huge asset to this venue.
Take a look at this uplifting mission statement!
Wave Pool Creates Community Fulfillment Through Artistic Opportunities. With exhibitions, creative engagements, and collaborations we:
LISTENWave Pool is community driven, exploring the stories and needs of the diverse communities we serve.
ACTIVATEWave Pool is artist led, reflecting the concerns and interests of contemporary creatives.
SHAREWave Pool uses our platform to amplify the ideas, expressions, and work, through which the world is made more joyous and equitable.
In the neighborhood of Camp Washington, just a few minutes from downtown Cincinnati, co-founders Cal and Skip Cullen have turned a historic fire station and storefront across the street into a hub of activity for artists, neighbors and art collectors. Since their launch, other businesses have located to Camp Washington where there is no shortage of interesting architecture and studio-worthy space available.
It is satisfying to hear Cal explain the deep meanings of the work being accomplished at Wave Pool. You cannot help but be moved emotionally when all the dots connect to create a world where artist fulfillment benefits community. Congratulations on your creative journey, Cal and Skip. Happy Thanksgiving!
Please review the links to learn more about Wave Pool and The Cincinnati Art Scene
Cincinnati Magazine article Cal Cullen Making Waves
Women of Cincy: Cal Cullen Changing the Current
Episode 35: Ways to Get the Most Out of an Art Class and More.
Valerie and Armin started out as students of art and now are teaching artists. Along the way, they discovered ways to enhance the learning process to get the most out of the class and their instructors. In this episode they share those ideas with their listeners. Topics include joining the community of an art class and learn from both the other students and the instructor, asking questions all along the path, and the importance of timely attendance. Passion and perseverance are the hallmarks to achieving success in the learning process of art.
Episode 34: A conversation with Nancy and Russell Thayer on art, life, and love.
We had the pleasure to spend an enjoyable hour with our artist friends, Nancy and Russell Thayer from their home and studios in Detroit via Zoom as we recorded this podcast. We couldn't help but compare and contrast our lives as artists and partners with them. We talked about sharing studio space, what a typical day would be and how each artist maintains their unique identity. As the conversation went on the secret to their successes as artists and spouses boils down to an unfailing respect for each other and unconditional love. You can hear it in their tone of voices and see it on Zoom in their expressions. Armin and I came away from this interview feeling as if we were given a key to unlock the doors that sometimes slam but can be opened with respect for each other blended with lots of love.
The work of Nancy Thayer is included in numerous museum collections including the Detroit Institute of Arts, Muzeum Papiernictwa, Duszniki Zdroj, Poland, Foundation MINT ALAPITVANY, Budapest, Hungary, and in over 200 private and corporate collections throughout Europe and the U.S. She was commissioned to create nine major sculptural paintings for the city of Detroit, and 3 for major health care facilities in Michigan. Her work has been shown extensively throughout the U.S and in Italy, Germany, Hungary, Poland, The Netherlands and Korea.
“While the visual content refers to and suggests forms of nature, they are not meant to be photographic or site-specific. My intention is always to communicate the spiritual essence and impact of the environment. In one series of paintings, I focused on sacred grottos, caves, and stalactites to express a private place for contemplation and a sense of solitude deep within what has been formed by nature over long periods of time.” Nancy Thayer
Russell Thayer is an artist who creates sculpture in cast bronze, brass, aluminum and steel. Each piece, whether personal or a public collaboration, showcases his love of architecture, sculpture, dance, poetry and history. His long career as an artist and educator is distinguished by numerous works in public and private collections. An educator for 48 years, Thayer served as Professor of Art History, Sculpture and Drawing at Delta College, followed by 15 years as a Professor of Art at the University of Michigan. Thayer received his M.F.A. from the Instituto Allende, San Miguel d’Allende, Mexico, an M.A. in sculpture and a B.S. in Design from the University of Michigan, and a C.C. in Industrial Design from the Royal College of Art in London.
"My love of architecture, sculpture, dance, poetry and history has influenced and informed my work from my student days at the University of Michigan to my most recent sculptural work. I find pleasure and purpose in creating works that are personal as well as works that are collaborations with various private and public clients." Russell Thayer
Links:
Nancy Thayer website: https://nancythayerpaintings.com
Heading West: Thayer + Thayer Exhibit at Westward Gallery, Denver, Colorado: https://stamps.umich.edu/news/nancy-and-russell-thayer-exhibit-at-westward-gallery
Nancy Thayer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancythayer/
Russell Thayer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-thayer-618b1922/
Episode 33: The Mystery of Art
There are many ways that art is mysterious both in the making and the meaning. Val and Armin discuss the categories in this episode that include symbolism, titles, history, content, elements and personality. Here are some show notes of topics discussed in this podcast.
Robert Rauschenberg erases a De Kooning drawing
The Shock of the New: The Hundred-Year History of Modern Art
Link to Robert Schefman's website
Crooked Tree-Traverse City Small Worlds exhibit
Episode 32: Conversation with mixed media artist, Bibby Gignilliat
After following California artist, Bibby Gignilliat on Instagram, Val reached out to her for a possible interview. We were thrilled when she agreed! During the afternoon conversation-morning for her- we had a complete discussion of her creative art process, her studio in the ICB Building in Sausalito, California and her mentors. Bibby (rhymes with Libby) Gignilliat (sounds like Gin a lot!) is a thoughtful enthusiastic artist who is generous with her knowledge and sources. Bibby is fun loving in spirit and all business when it comes to her art. Her background in marketing is a gift and we learned a lot from her in this taping. She teaches mixed media workshops in her studio and also online. Go to her instagram page at @bibbygart to see her wonderful abstract artworks.
About Bibby
Turning her adult creative talents toward cooking, Bibby became a marketing manager for Williams-Sonoma, and then decided to go to culinary school. From there she offered interactive cooking classes which evolved into the company, Parties That Cook, with satellite office in Chicago, Seattle and Portland. The business was successful, but Bibby had an epiphany when, as a panelist at the Sloan School of Management at MIT. She heard her company described as a “lifestyle business.” I realized I had been pushing so hard, that I had left my own lifestyle behind. And I had forgotten what I liked to do.” And what she liked to do was paint.
Coming full circle, Bibby sold the business and shifted her focus to becoming a full-time mixed media artist, living and working in Sausalito, CA. She is unconstrained by the formal training of art school and has studied with Nicholas Wilton, Michael Cutlip, Michael Shemchuk, Mark Eanes, Heather Wilcoxon, Leslie Allen, Louise Victor and Carl Heyward.
Artist Statement
Each day as I step into my studio, I am entering a playground – a workout for taking risks, letting go of attachments, and experimenting with new ideas. The materials are guiding me. A letter to the tooth fairy, a One Way road sign, or a billboard scrap foraged in San Francisco all make their way into the work and are a reflection of my interior life. My spirit laughs out loud at the freedom of breaking the rules and drawing outside of the lines. I’m not sure who is in charge – my art or me. The process is alchemical, magical, and joyful. The maverick/rebel is encouraged while the perfectionist is given a time-out. The result is a pure reflection of my heart. In 2021, my work was chosen for the DeYoung Open at the DeYoung Museum. It is available through my studio, Sloan Miyasato Fine Art, through Slate Contemporary in Oakland and through the Portland Art Gallery in Portland, Maine.
Here are some links for you to explore:
Bibby Gignilliat Website: Bibbyart.com
ICB Building in Sausalito, California
Bibby has attended artist residencies and mentorships with the following artists:
Gallery in Maine that recently added Bibby to their group of artists. Portland Art Gallery
Thank you, Bibby, for sharing your art journey with us on Art Ladders Podcast.
Episode 31: Magical Moments in Maine
We recently returned from an unforgettable three weeks at Golden Apple Studio and Residency. It is a joy to relive this experience with our listeners. We cover six topics during this podcast.
1. Flow of the Day with the other participating artists.
2. Gallery Trips in Down East, Maine
3. Influences of the Environment
4. Trials and Tribulations
5. Workshops
6. Magical Moments while traveling.
Our hosts, artist Shelley and Greg Stevens, are passionate in their commitment to provide artists everything they need to immerse themselves into this nurturing time to create art. They provide an environment that is both restful and invigorating. We highly recommend for artists to consider applying for a two-week session in 2023. We return to our studios with a new perspective and appreciation for being artists. Thank you, Shelley and Greg!
Show Notes
Other residents who participated during session three. Barbara Hranilovich , James Steigengo , Sal Strom
Daniel Anselmi ( https://www.danielanselmi.com )
Robert Pollien ( https://pollien.com )
Philip Barter (https://thebarterarthouse.com/philip-barter )
Philip and Priscilla's pianist and composer son, Jack Barter has a Spotify Account HERE. ( https://open.spotify.com/artist/3pR0mi7xkFeVgKuWVOPYHa?si=XMnIY3bkRa6qL5w7QIBizA )
Matt Barter is Philip and Priscilla's visual artist son and here is a YouTube link to an interview with Matt about his art in Maine. VIDEO ( https://vimeo.com/655910103 )
A retro motel in Kittery, Maine we stayed on the way to residency. We loved it!
The ride home: Sunset Harbor Bar and Grill on Lake Erie PS: After we had a late lunch a there, the Grill closed due to stormy and high waves on the patio. Crazy!
Val's Abstraction Now! virtual online class "Last Minute" registration. The five-week class begins Wednesday, September 14, 2022 from 6-8pm.
Complete list of fall season virtual online classes
Episode 30: Summertime Travels and September Start-Ups!
In this episode Val and Armin discuss getting ready for their residencies at Golden Apple Studio in Harrington, Maine. Packing for a trip like this involves lots of thinking, lists and reminders. Not only do they need to anticipate the process they will land on when in Maine but they are also teaching workshops which adds another layer of supplies. To keep it not so overwhelming, they have devised ways to make it fun, lighten the stress and be detailed-oriented as well.
While in Maine, they will be posting on Instagram and Facebook to keep you up-to-date on what a residency in Maine could be like. Golden Apple Studio and Residency is the sponsor this year for Art Ladders and we are happy that our missions are compatible. We encourage connections with artists and between artists through podcasts that include discussion and interviews. Golden Apple encourages time for artists to create, think and connect. They are now accepting applications for the selection of residents for 2023. Email Shelley Stevens at snstevens@goldenapplestudio.com.
In September, when Val and Armin return, they will begin their virtual teaching schedule in mid-September. The link to their current collection of classes is available here. LINK FOR CLASSES These classes all have limited spots so it is best to sign up earlier rather than later. If you have any questions please contact us.
Episode 29: Conversation with Artist and Author, Tesia Blackburn, The Acrylic Diva!
This episode features the talented and generous artist and author, Tesia Blackburn. She is a true believer of abundance and shares her wealth of knowledge with artists all over the world. Val recently took a class with Tesia earlier this year and as a result launched her own Abstraction Now! online class. Tesia is Val's mentor during the further development of an online presence for Art Ladders and treasures Tesia's good humor and passion during this tech journey. You can listen to this podcast episode and "catch the wave" of this San Francisco based artist and tech professional. Tesia is known as the Acrylic Diva in the art world and her brand has grown to include online classes in visual art, multiple books, mentoring for artists, digital art and more. She has been a working artist in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 25 years. She received her BFA from the Academy of Art, studied lithography at the San Francisco Art Institute and received her Master's of Art from John F. Kennedy in Orinda, California. Tesia has three books available on Amazon listed in the show notes. If you have questions for Tesia, she asked us here at Art Ladders to forward those on to her! Thank you, Tesia! We had such a great party talking with you!!
Show Notes:
Tesia's Facebook Page: Acrylic Diva
Acrylic Diva's Amazon Storefront
Books by Tesia:
It's Only Painting: Essays On Creativity From A Veteran Artist, It's Only Painting: The Maker's Book, and Acrylic Painting with Passion: Explorations for Creating Art that Nourishes the Soul.
Episode 28: Why Draw? Val and Armin discuss how they use drawing in their practice.
Whether you are a painter, draughtsman, sculptor or potter, you most likely have used drawing to begin, refine or examine your finished work. In this hour, Val and Armin discuss the many ways drawing has played important roles in their art journeys. Sketching can be the spark of an idea that will ultimately become a detailed graphite drawing in Armin's world, while a gestural charcoal mark-making session can be an active underpainting for a future abstraction in Val's. Each of them use drawings to solve problems, record details, journal thoughts, and just dream. They encourage you to look for ways you can develop your drawings skills to express yourselves in ways that can be as simple as sketching on cocktail napkins to committing many hours to a finished large-scale artwork.
Tools of the Trade:
Armin's Mounted Paper on Board Supplier, Art Board
Val's Charcoal for Underpainting
Cocktail Napkin Architectural Drawing Competitions
Manifest Gallery and Drawing Center
Armin's August Drawing Boot Camp at Flint Institute of Art Registration Page
Episode 27: Conversation with Plein Air Artist Alan Maciag
Alan Maciag's rural landscapes are a balance between form, distance, color and content. This balance creates a sense of calm and bucolic reverence for the rural heritage of Michigan, for the wonderland of it's vacation lakes, or for the sanctuary within a garden or public space. It is as though you have been given a gift - to simply "step in" for a moment and be surrounded by the spirit captured on that canvas.
“Plein air painters paint from life with a passion like no other in the world of painters. By placing myself among these magnificent gifts of light and nature, my visions are propelled from my head to my hand to my canvas,” writes Maciag.
In our conversation with Alan, we will discuss not only his creative process for painting but also his teaching career at the high school level. You will learn more about two of his students' success stories that stand out in the crowd.
Alan's Midland studio and gardens are open by appointment. If you would like to visit him, please call his studio number at (989) 245-5584.
Thank you, Alan, for inviting us both to your home and studio over the 4th of July weekend. It is always worthwhile to visit artist friends. So happy you are on our podcast for episode 27.
Show notes:
Alan's gallery representation:
Twisted Fish Gallery in Elk Rapids, MI
Hudson Gallery in Sylvania, Ohio
Former Students Who Made it Big!
Episode 26: What are your lightbulb moments? A conversation with Valerie and Armin
Valerie and Armin recreate one of their weekend art talks and explore the topic of developing ideas. You can think of it as the aha moments or the lightbulb moments that can motivate artists to push forward new plans. Not every lightbulb flash is destined to be the next big deal but the point is to recognize it and examine to see if it has lasting power.
After a series of successful interviews with other artists, Val and Armin enjoyed recording and talking with each other during this interview. You will hear them discuss the topics of developing innovations in art making, art teaching and the development of art business. Armin will ask Val to discuss her recent Great Lakes Bay Region Art Award that she received from the Saginaw Art and Enrichment Commission on June 9, 2022. They both will discuss their teaching philosophies and their classes.
Episode 25: Interview with Cynthia Patrick and William Mayes from the Port Austin Artist Residency Program
Val and Armin spent an enjoyable afternoon with Cindy Patrick and William Mays of the Port Austin Artist Residency Program. Val is spending two weeks in the residency program and staying at the history Bee Barn, the headquarters for the program. Port Austin is very much an artist-centric community with projects ranging from architecturally converted barns, to sculpture gardens, residency programs and symphonic concerts. This small village of 700 is encouraging artists to visit and for art collectors to think about visiting this beautiful spot on Lake Huron. Economic growth for rural America can learn a lot from Port Austin as art increases economic growth when it has a viable and vibrant presence in communities. Here are a few links:
https://portaustinair.org for Port Austin Residency Program
http://www.thumbartsguild.org Link for Thumb Arts Guild
https://www.facebook.com/mermaidscove.portaustin The Cove Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/whitechurchgallery. White Church Gallery
https://portaustinmusic.com/porch-fest Link to Porch Fest on June 25, 2022
Episode 24: Conversation with Todd Burroughs, Founding Director of Atelier School of Art
Valerie and Armin are joined by friend and colleague, Todd Burroughs of Atelier School of Art in Royal Oak, Michigan, USA. Todd conceptualized the Atelier School of Art from dream to reality with a passion that coincides with his immense enthusiasm for visual art. Just read this mission of the school to further understand Atelier School of Art's philosophy. "We are committed to helping people pursue their natural inclination to create. We have created an environment to nurture, educate and encourage individuals to achieve the highest level of success."
Todd Burroughs is the founding director of Atelier School of Art in Royal Oak, Michigan. He is best known for his realist drawings, oil paintings and passion for teaching. He has received numerous awards and honorifics for his paintings and teaching accomplishments. His art work is widely collected by personal and corporate collectors.
While attending Columbia College in Chicago, Todd had his first art exhibition. Shortly after he embarked on a 6-month trip to India to study art and culture. While in India his artistic interest shifted from Abstract Expressionism to Classical Painting methods. After returning to Chicago, Todd began a five-year program of study in oil painting at the Atelier Alternative in Chicago. He holds a Cum Laude degree in Historic Preservation and Fine Art from Eastern Michigan University.
While studying in Chicago he began his life-long research in to art-making processes. In 2000 Todd Burroughs returned to Michigan, and began teaching painting and drawing. His teaching experience includes teaching at museums, art centers and The College for Creative Studies. Additionally, he has always taught from his studio as part of his own art making process. The rational being that if you care for an idea, you are obligated to pass it on. Todd’s advocacy for education in the arts, and accessible studio practices for all led to him founding the Atelier School of Art in 2018. He regularly shares his knowledge through lectures, workshops, and teaching from the studio.
His art making primarily focuses on oil painting and drawing. His work also includes photography, digital art and NFTs. His pieces range from the monumental, eight feet by twenty feet, to the intimate, 1.5 inch by two inches, and embrace a broad range of drawing and painting methodologies.
Link to Atelier School of Art located in downtown Royal Oak, Michigan.
Link to Summer Workshops at Atelier School of Art There are workshops taught by Todd Burrough, Valerie Allen, and Armin Mersmann this summer.
International Painting Annual 5 exhibition-in-print, Manifest Gallery, Todd Burroughs Statement