Michael deMeng's Strange Tales of Myth and Magic: Recent Episodes
Michael deMeng
Assemblage artist Michael deMeng takes listeners on a journey through ancient legends and lore. He explores how these tales evolved, how they affected culture and how they influenced him as an artist.
In this episode of Junk and Disorderly, we’re taking a peek at some of the stranger holiday traditions—like the mysterious pickle hidden in the Christmas tree and a certain festive log with an… unexpected talent. And, of course, I’ll touch on a quirky tradition in my own home involving Krampus-themed pranks that add just the right touch of mischief to the season. It’s all about celebrating the weird and wonderful ways we keep the holidays memorable!
Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:
• Instagram: @michael_demeng_art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng
• TikTok: @michaeldemeng
In this episode, Michael recounts a late-night cab ride in Mexico City that turned out to be anything but ordinary. From an unexpected decision to a ride full of surprises, he explores how even the smallest details can transform a simple journey into a story worth remembering. Tune in for a tale about risk, observation, and the unexpected beauty of the road less traveled.
Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:
• Instagram: @michael_demeng_art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng
• TikTok: @michaeldemeng
In this episode of Junk and Disorderly, I reflect on the early days after my first book was published and how I made the mistake of obsessing over reviews. One particular one-star review stood out—not for its kindness, let’s just say. But what started as a harsh critique took a hilariously unexpected turn thanks to some snooping, a mysterious five-star rating, and an even stranger twist.
Let’s just say it’s a story of despair, revenge, and macaroni art.
Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:
• Instagram: @michael_demeng_art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng
• TikTok: @michaeldemeng
In this thought-provoking episode, join Michael deMeng and Gary Warren Niebuhr as they dive into the age-old debate: what’s the real difference between craft and art? Is it the intention, the process, or something else entirely? Whether you’re an artist, a crafter, or just curious, this episode promises to challenge your perceptions and spark your creativity. Tune in for a lively discussion that blurs the lines between craft and art and celebrates the beauty of both.
Thank you for tuning in to Mischief and Masterpieces and Strange Tales of Myth and Magic.
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Come back soon for another exciting episode where we continue to explore the fascinating world of creativity and expression. Keep on arting.
Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:
• Instagram: @michael_demeng_art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng
• TikTok: @michaeldemeng
In this episode of Mischief and Masterpieces, we're taking a stroll down memory lane through the colorful history of art. Join Michael deMeng and Gary Warren Niebuhr as we ponder the age-old question: why do we make art anyway? From ancient doodles to modern masterpieces, let's uncover the reasons behind humanity's creative obsession.
Sit back and join the conversation.
For the Holidays I decided to share a strange tradition from my childhood, that involves a 5 foot tall Tyrannosaurus Rex. A very strange Christmas tradition, indeed.
In this episode Michael takes a gander at the creatures that lurk in your slumber. Explore the Alebrijes creations from Mexico learn how they were inspired by a fever dream. Also travel to Greece and Japan and find out about their nighttime beasties.
In this episode Michael be taking a look at the classic and influential 1922 film, Nosferatu. He will chat about the production as well a some of the myths and legends that influenced it.
In this episode Michael explores the legends of the cyclops. The come from all over the world in all shapes and sizes...even as umbrellas. Find out more about the one eyed guys and why they are so important to Michael's artwork.
In this episode Michael explores the legends of the Xmas devil, Krampus. He also takes a look at other the other devils of December and there ring leader...Frau Perchta. He winds up with a chat about a nasty Christmas orgress of Iceland, her blood thirsty kitty, and her mischievous sons...the Yule Lads.
In this episode Michael explores the myths and legends surrounding beer. Beer godesses, never empty goblets, the invention of straws, the strange life and demise of Lord Barleycorn and the King of Beer sells his soul to the Devil.
In this episode Michael explores doppelgängers, changelings and other unusual duplicates. Are they warnings, protectors, or do they have something more nefarious in mind?
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
In this episode Michael explores the snake haired villain Medusa...but, the question is, was she really so bad?
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
In this episode Michael explores strange plants of fable and lore, including the hungry grass of Ireland, the man-eating Madagascar tree and vampire pumpkins.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
In this episode Michael explores the legends of Davy Jones, the Flying Dutchmen and the Chilean Ghost Ship the Calueche.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
In this episode Michael deMeng explores the Danse Macabre and other stories of Death, ditties and dancing. He will examine everything from the Death shimmying folks to the afterworld, the boney Inuit dancer, dances to ward off tarantula bites, and more.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
In this episode Michael deMeng explores the Loup Garou and the werewolf legends of French Canada.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
In this episode Michael deMeng explores the vampires of Ireland and how some of these legends may have come to influence Bram Stoker's novel Dracula.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
Michael deMeng explores the legends of the woodland creatures called Pixies. Little magical folk who spend most of there time dancing by moonlight and playing pranks on humans
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
Michael deMeng explores Jewish legends surrounding a clay monster called the Golem; a mystical servant and protector to the Jewish people...but sometimes things go a little haywire. Learn about the legend that inspired Mary Shelley's Frankenstein along with some of the strange variations of the tale.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
Michael deMeng explores the Buso devils of Mohacs. A strange Hungarian festival where devils run amok...but don't fear...they're not all bad. In fact when you hear about them you'll be wanting to throw a few spiced wines back with them.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
Michael deMeng explores the legends and stories about La Llorona, the Weeping Woman. Discover her sad tragic tale and how other ghost stories might relate. You'll also take a trip to the very haunting Isla de las Munencas, Doll Island, and find out how this place might relate to the legends of la Llorona.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog
Michael deMeng explores the legends and stories about the mysterious witch of Russia and Slavic lore, Baba Yaga. Learn about her strange house that hops around on chicken legs and how this tale influenced Michael's artwork.
Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog