This is How We Create: Recent Episodes
Martine Severin
A show that digs deeper into the creative life of contemporary artists of color. Discover what feeds their creativity and how they found (or are finding) their artistic voice. Through these intimate and candid conversations, you will gain insights into the lives of creative professionals of color that are hard to find anywhere else.
What does it take to keep creating, even after dozens of false starts? In this deeply insightful encore episode, I’m sharing my conversation with the legendary author Edwidge Danticat.
Edwidge shares how she found her own voice as a writer and offers a candid look into her artistic practice today. We talk about the "dance with fear", and the "20 notebooks of false starts" for her current novel, and the practical mindset it takes to push through creative blocks.
This is a powerful and reassuring conversation for any creator who has ever felt stalled by perfectionism or self-doubt.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Edwidge Danticat
02:30 - The Oral Storytellers of a Haitian Childhood
04:30 - From Listening to Writing: Discovering the Power of Books
06:55 - Finding a Voice and First Publications
09:20 - Choosing Art Over a Prescribed Path
11:30 - The Dance with Fear: Navigating Self-Doubt and Perfectionism
14:50 - The 20 Notebooks: A Look into the Creative Process
18:10 - Learning to Trust Your Own Process
20:10 - A Message to Her Younger Self
Connect with Edwidge: Edwidge’s Website: https://edwidgedanticat.com/
Support the Show Website: http://www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: http://www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever felt the pull to leave a secure, conventional career for a more exciting path of as an artist?
In this encore episode, I’m revisiting my conversation with photographer Nolis Anderson, whose journey is a powerful lesson in following your creative intuition.
Nolis shares the incredible story of how he pivoted from pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree to building a full-time photography career, not with a grand plan, but through organic growth and the power of community.
This conversation is a must-listen for anyone wondering if their 'hobby' could be something more.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Nolis Anderson
01:06 - From Kenwood Academy to a Creative Path
02:40 - The Surprising Leap: From Pharmacy to Photography
06:30 - Finding a Voice: From Parties to Portraits
11:50 - The Art of Capturing Ephemeral Moments
14:10 - The "Clean" Aesthetic: Editing and Process
17:15 - The Power of Mentorship and Community
19:20 - Navigating the Business of Creativity
25:50 - Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
Connect with Nolis: Follow Nolis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nolis
Nolis’s Website: https://www.nolisanderson.com/
Support the Show Website: http://www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: http://www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
When was the last time your creative energy faded away like mist? One season you’re overflowing with ideas, and the next, you feel like you’re trying to draw water from a dry well.
In this personal solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my own creative rhythms. Tune in to hear how to use your natural creative lulls to your advantage. This episode is a gentle reminder that your river of creativity is always flowing, even when it goes underground for a while.
Chapters 00:00 - My Not-So-Secret Creative Cycle 02:21 - The Dry Spell: When the Well Runs Empty 04:49 - The Return of the River: Embracing the Flow 07:15 - Beyond Hustle: Challenging the Myth of Constant Creation 09:33 - What to Do When the Ideas Aren't Flowing 11:46 - Mapping Your Own Creative Seasons 14:10 - Your River is Always Flowing
Support the Show Website: https://www.martineseverin.com/
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/ | https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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Have you ever wondered how to turn a lifelong passion for art into a real, thriving career? In this episode, I'm delighted to sit down with Alex Craig, a self-taught artist, painter, and illustrator who embodies the spirit of creative determination. Alex shares her journey, from a childhood surrounded by artists to launching her first clothing line to eventually showcasing her work at prestigious events such as the Black Girl Art Show.
This conversation explores perseverance and authenticity that transform passion into purpose. We dig into:
- The practical steps of building an art business,
- We talk about how to digest critique,
- How to open an Etsy shop and
- Tips to find the right printer and pricing for your work.
Alex’s story is a reminder that with a strong support system and an unwavering belief in your own voice, you can build the creative life you've always envisioned.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alex Craig
01:21 Growing Up Creative: A Family of Artists
03:40 The College Hustle: From Custom Jackets to a Clothing Line
07:25 Taught by Experience: Lessons from a College Art Class
11:11 The Art of Critique: Learning to Let Go of Ego
19:23 Finding Your Voice with a Little Push from Family
22:05 The Practical Hustle: Starting and Growing an Etsy Shop
28:27 Bridging Worlds: How Digital Sketches Inform Physical Paintings
33:20 The Art of Pricing: On Accessibility and Value
36:54 The Signature Palette: A Love Story with the Color Blue
40:13 What Sets Her Heart Ablaze: The Drive to Keep Creating
Connect with Alexandra: Follow Alexandra on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artviaalex
Alexandra’s Website: https://artviaalex.etsy.com/
Support the Show Website: http://www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: http://www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
Think back to your younger self. What advice would you give to that version of yourself?
In today’s episode, I'm sharing a powerful compilation of advice from three artists who have learned to quiet their chatty minds to be their best selves.
We'll hear from Murielle Banackissa, celebrated food photographer, stylist, and author of the cookbook Savoring. Nana Oduro, a visual artist. And from, Tiffany Brooks, a leading figure in the interior design world.
This episode is an intimate collection of insights on trusting the process, embracing your voice, and finding the courage to create authentically.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction: A Conversation with Our Younger Selves
02:23 Murielle Banackissa on Trusting the Process
05:28 Nana Oduro on Why Fear is the Mind-Killer
07:36 Tiffany Brooks on the Power of Following Your Gut
10:45 What Advice Would You Give?
Support the Show Website: https://www.martineseverin.com/
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/ | https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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How do you move from showing your art in group exhibitions to building a loyal circle of collectors who not only buy your work but champion it? In this conversation, we dive deep into the lived experience of an artist who has done exactly that.
From humble beginnings in group shows to being invited into exhibitions in New York, Japan, and Europe, our guest shares how community, consistency, and serendipity shaped a career sustained not by social media clicks but by human connection.
We explore:
- Building Collectors: How early supporters became long-term champions who now buy new work before it’s public.
- Real-Life vs. Social Media: Why genuine conversations and showing up in person often outperform online likes.
- Printing Philosophy: Why Moab Luster paper brings photography to life like a “window into reality.”
- Archiving & Editing: A practical system in Lightroom to organize decades of work while leaving space for rediscovery.
- Film Revival: How DSLR scanning revolutionized archiving film—fast, precise, and surprisingly affordable.
- Creative Tools: From smart collections to Google Earth, the surprising ways digital tools fuel analog creativity.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Accidental Photographer
05:10 From Marine Biology to a High School Darkroom
07:29 Finding a Focus in Skate Photography
14:59 The Evolution of a Creative Eye
17:10 Photography as a Way to Preserve the Present
21:37 A Deep Dive into Landscape and Nature
27:28 The Process: Planning, Gear, and Google Earth
33:41 The Creative Dance of Fatherhood
39:28 Building a Collector Base for Your Art
43:33 The Art of the Archive: Lightroom, Keywords, and DSLR Scanning
52:39 Final Thoughts on a Winding Journey
Connect with Darnell: Follow Darnell on Instagram:https://darnell-scott.com/
Darnell’s Website: https://www.instagram.com/_darnellscott_/?hl=en
Support the Show Website: http://www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: http://www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
What's your relationship with money? Is it your friend, your enemy, or something much more complicated? In this episode, I discuss a topic we all think about but rarely talk about: money.
We'll explore the science of how money stress affects our creative brains and unpack the family stories that shape our financial habits. We’ll guide you through actionable steps and a few mindset shifts, including the powerful "Honey Money" concept, that have helped me build a healthier, more abundant relationship with my finances.
This episode is for any creative who's ready to rewrite their money story and build a life that feels not just creatively fulfilling, but financially safe and expansive.
Chapters 00:00 - My Money Story: From Haiti to a Scarcity Mindset
03:05 - The Science of Money Stress: How Scarcity Affects Your Brain
05:15 - Unpacking Your Family's Money History
07:00 - The Five-Step Journey to a New Mindset
11:10 - Books That Will Change Your Relationship with Money
15:30 - Meet 'Honey Money': A Simple Practice for Abundance
18:18 - A Gentle Warning and Where to Find Help
Here is the list of books and resources to help you reframe your relationship with money:
- Lower Ed by Tressie McMillan Cottom https://www.amazon.com/Lower-Ed-For-Profit-Education-Ruin-of-the-American-Dream/dp/1620974497
- The Color of Money by Mehrsa Baradaran ttps://www.amazon.com/Color-Money-Banking-Racial-Wealth/dp/0674237477
- Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond https://www.amazon.com/Poverty-America-Matthew-Desmond/dp/0593239912
- Get Rich, Lucky Bitch! by Denise Duffield-Thomas https://www.amazon.com/Get-Rich-Lucky-Bitch-Manifesting/dp/1788172101
- The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Money-Timeless-lessons-happiness/dp/0857197681
- Overcoming Underearning by Barbara Stanny https://www.amazon.com/Overcoming-Underearning-Five-Steps-Richer/dp/0062842455
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D. https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
- Happy Money by Ken Honda https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Money-Japanese-Making-Peace/dp/1501188372
Mental Health & Crisis Resources Please remember, your well-being matters more than any amount of money. If you are struggling, please reach out to these resources for support.
- Crisis Text Line: For immediate support, text HOME to 741741.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: You can call or text 988 to connect with the prevention line.
- Psychology Today: A resource to help you find a therapist in your area.
Support the Show Website: https://www.martineseverin.com/
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/ | https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
How do you find your creative voice when the world tries to quiet it? In this powerful episode, I sit down with artist Diana Hendrix, who shares her journey from Chicago's foster care system to carving a vibrant creative career. Diana reveals how to use your work to reshape a challenging world into something beautiful.
We explore her path through a detour into law and how an unexpected health diagnosis ultimately forced a profound return to her artistic roots. This is an intimate story about resourcefulness, the power of encouragement, and how the most challenging course corrections can lead us directly to who we were always meant to be.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Diana’s Journey
01:51 - Art as a First Language in the Foster Care System
04:49 - A Mother’s Encouragement and How it Shaped an Artist
06:51 - Discovering Basquiat, Alma Thomas, and an Artistic Lineage
11:21 - The Pressure to "Course Correct" to a Traditional Career
13:43 - The Unapologetic Joy of the "Don't Care Bears"
18:19 - Fueling the Next Generation of Artists
Connect with Diana: Follow Diana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumbblebeedesigns/
Support the Show Website: https://www.martineseverin.com/
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/ | https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
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Have you ever found yourself frustrated with a client who wants top-tier, champagne-level results on a beer budget? We've all been there. But what happens when you realize you do the exact same thing in your own life?
We are digging into the messy, human psychology of why we all want more than we can sometimes afford. I explore the powerful "first impression effect" that sets our expectations and the tricky mental shortcuts we use that equate price with quality. I will share actionable steps for managing expectations, setting your "non-resentment rate," and protecting your creative energy, especially when you really need the money.
Chapters 00:00 - The Contractor Story: Champagne Taste on a Beer Budget
02:18 - The Psychology of Why We Want Expensive Things for Cheap
04:45 - More Than a Budget: The Human Need for Quality and Joy
07:04 - For Service Providers: 4 Ways to Manage Client Expectations
10:11 - For Clients: How to Get Better Results on Any Budget
11:54 - The Hardest Part: How to Set Boundaries When Money is Tight
15:37 - Your "Non-Resentment Rate" and Why It’s a Game-Changer
19:06 - Breaking the Race to the Bottom & Final Recap
Check out the full Video Podcast on our YouTube Channel!
https://youtu.be/YR449TnmbrI
Support the Show Website: https://www.martineseverin.com/
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/ | https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
Resources to Support This Topic Here are a few resources that dig deeper into the concepts discussed in the episode:
-
"Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman: This book is a masterclass in understanding the cognitive biases that shape our decisions, including the "anchoring effect" or "first impression effect" I discussed. It’s a fantastic read for anyone who wants to understand the "why" behind our choices.
-
"Pricing Design" by Dan Mall: While focused on design, the principles in this book are invaluable for any creative professional. Dan breaks down how to price your work based on value, not just time, helping you build a more sustainable and profitable business.
- "Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself" by Nedra Glover Tawwab: Setting boundaries is crucial for protecting your creative energy, especially when dealing with pricing and client expectations. This book offers practical advice on how to establish healthy boundaries in your professional and personal life, which is essential for long-term creative health.
How do the roles we observe as children shape the art we create as adults? In this conversation, I connect with painter and curator Yannie Gu, whose creative vision was formed by the women in her life in Shanghai.
Tune in to hear how Yannie leveraged the power of community to create an experimental pop-up gallery. Yannie offers a beautiful perspective on her use of color and the symbolism of flames in her work, creating a world where her characters are protected and powerful. This episode explores how our past, our passions, and our communities can intertwine to create a voice that is uniquely our own.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Yannie Gu
00:51 - Growing Up in Shanghai
03:03 - From Professional Ballet to Visual Art
05:20 - Finding Her Voice and Community at SVA
07:10 - The Genesis of Museum 54: A Platform for Peers
12:20 - The Gaze in the Age of Technology
17:30 - Painting with Fire: The Symbolism of Flames and Color
23:45 - Balancing a Studio Practice with Commercial Work
30:40 - Capturing Ideas in the Notes App
32:00 - Final Reflections on the Creative Journey
Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel!
https://youtu.be/fgH4xiLL0v0
Connect with Yannie: Follow Yannie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yanixgu/?hl=en
Yannie’s Website: https://yannieyiyanggu.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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In this solo episode, I'm sharing a tough-love truth that might sting a little. It all started during a recent hiring process, where I was struck by how many candidates showed up unprepared for a life-changing opportunity. It got me thinking: how often do we, as creatives, fail to do the basic work our dreams require?
I’m digging into the idea of "permission to play" as the baseline preparation and knowledge that’s your ticket into the game. We’re not talking about perfection; rather, we’re focusing on honoring your future self with the simple act of showing up ready. We'll explore why talent without preparation is just potential and how over-preparing is one of the most profound acts of self-love you can practice.
If you're ready to stop abandoning your future and start building earned confidence, this one's for you.
Chapters 00:00 - The Interview Story That Stung
01:43 - What Is Your 'Permission to Play?'
02:30 - The Real Cost of Being Unprepared
03:25 - Sending a Love Letter to Your Future Self
04:25 - How Preparation Changes Your Identity
05:15 - What People Say When You're Not in the Room
06:20 - A Final Word: Your Future Self is Counting on You
Check out the full Video Podcast on our YouTube Channel!
https://youtu.be/YR449TnmbrI
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever given yourself a deadline to make a dream come true? For singer and actress Rashada Dawan, that deadline was one year. After being laid off and with bills piling up, she made a 12-month commitment to pursue her art full-time before turning to a more “practical” career. Just days before she was set to take an exam to become a police offer, she received a life-altering phone call.
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Rashada Dawan to talk about her journey from Chicago church choirs to national stages. This is a story about faith, resilience, and the courage to bet on yourself, even when the clock is ticking.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Multifaceted Rashada Dawan 02:22 - Saturday Mornings and Church Choirs: Early Musical Memories 06:06 - "Singing Doesn't Pay the Bills": The Advice That Shaped a Career 10:07 - Finding Her Voice: Lessons from Mimicking the Greats 17:28 - The One-Year Challenge and a Life-Changing Bathroom Call 21:21 - A Family Affair: Passing the Torch to the Next Generation 31:02 - The Swinging Pendulum: Finding Contentment in the Dance of Life 37:05 - More Than an Artist: The Freedom of Creating Without Pressure
Connect with Rashada: Rashada’s Website: https://rashadadawan.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
Have you ever been at a crossroads, wishing for that one piece of timely advice to light the way?
Recently, a conversation with my nieces got me thinking about the incredible wisdom our guests have shared on this podcast. In this special episode, I'm doing things a little differently. I’ve gathered insights from three amazing creators: bestselling author Jasmine Guillory, photographer Amanda J. Cain, and muralist Dorian Sylvain who share the advice they wish they could give their younger selves.
Get ready to hear hear tried-and-true tips on the writing process, the power of mentorship, and how to reframe so-called mistakes into opportunities for growth.
Chapters 00:00 - The Power of Timely Advice 03:26 - Jasmine Guillory on Finding Your Voice as a Writer 05:14 - Amanda J. Cain on Mentorship and the Gift of Authenticity 09:27 - Dorian Sylvain on Embracing "Mistakes" and Lifelong Learning 13:46 - A Final Word on Making Advice Stick
Tune in to Jasmine Guillory’s episode 50.
Tune in to Amanda J Cain’s episode 70.
Tune in to Dorian Sylvain’s episode 77.
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
What happens when your creative process becomes a mirror, reflecting back the deepest parts of your identity? I sit down with abstract artist Gina Tyquiengco to discuss her winding creative path, from teaching herself graphic design to finding her voice as a painter.
Gina explains how her signature black, white, and gold palette is a deliberate reflection of her Guamanian and African American heritage, duality, and spirituality. This is a powerful conversation about trusting the process and the joy of making art alongside your children.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Gina Tyquiengco
01:50 - A Multicultural Upbringing Fueled by Creativity
04:00 - The Clever Kid Who Drew Inside the Cabinets
05:20 - How Bob Ross Sparked a Lifelong Passion for Painting
07:25 - The Winding Road from Graphic Design to Fine Art
10:00 - Painting for a Paycheck vs. Painting for Self-Discovery
14:10 - The Meaning Behind a Black, White, and Gold Palette
18:00 - Exploring and Mastering a Signature Style
21:00 - Knowing When a Painting is Truly Finished
27:00 - The Beautiful Collaboration of Painting with Her Daughter
31:30 - Advice for Aspiring Artists on Mastering Your Craft
35:30 - The Key to Getting Your Work Seen by the Right People
Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel!
https://youtu.be/kMS6hWeBtPI Connect with Gina: Follow Gina on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ginatyquiengco/
Gina’s Website: https://www.ginatyquiengco.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
Have you ever felt like artist grants are just mysterious pots of money reserved for a select few? It’s a feeling so many of us in the creative world know all too well. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the world of grant funding to show you that it’s not about luck or secret connections.
Being awarded a grant has everything to do with understanding the system. I’ll walk you through the essentials: what grants are, where to find the right opportunities for you, and how to strategically prepare yourself for success.
If you're ready to stop throwing applications into the void and start intentionally building a path to fund your creative practice, this conversation is your first step.
Chapters 00:00 - Welcome to the World of Artist Grants. 01:03 - What Exactly Is an Artist Grant? 02:47 - From Local Councils to "Genius" Grants: Understanding the Money 04:22 - Where to Find the Right Grants for You 05:40 - The Strategy That Works: Why Starting Local Matters. 06:37 - The Most Important Work: Figuring Out What You Truly Need. 07:50 - How to Move from a Vague Wish to a Specific Plan. 09:05 - The Power of Tracking and Timing. 09:47 - Don't Overlook This Funding Gem: Residencies. 10:20 - A Little Homework to Get You Started.
Check out the full Video Podcast on our YouTube Channel!
https://youtu.be/HiigpPmF7oQ
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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Have you ever felt a divine nudge? Or maybe a full-on nudge that pushed you toward a life you didn’t plan for? In this episode, I’m talking with the incredible interior designer Beth Diana Smith, who made the courageous leap from a successful career in corporate finance to founding her own celebrated design firm.
Beth shares the story of how she went from being the kid who organized her toybox and dreamed of becoming an accountant to a leading voice in contemporary design, known for her bold, eclectic, and maximalist style. We get into the pivotal moment of peace that led her to leave her stressful corporate job and how the skills she honed with spreadsheets and budgets became the secret weapon for her creative business. This is a candid conversation about listening to the signs, redefining your path, and the magic that happens when a client points out your signature style before you’ve even seen it yourself.
Chapters 00:00 - From Aspiring Accountant to Acclaimed Designer
06:56 - Juggling Two Worlds: The Hustle of Corporate Life and Design School
12:50 - The Divine Slap: Finding Peace and the Courage to Quit
18:40 - Building a Business: First Clients and Finding Momentum
22:15 - Discovering a Signature Style by Accident
28:08 - The Psychology of Design: Creating for a Client’s Future Self
34:20 - How Corporate Skills Shape a Creative Business
38:30 - On Pride, Passion, and Finding the Right Collaborators
Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel! https://youtu.be/JJ9aqXU1J74?si=2bPo8ZEwIQTFpEcv
Connect with Beth: Follow Beth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethdianasmith
Beth’s Website: https://www.bethdianasmith.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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- Share with fellow creatives
Have you ever considered how success might change you? That as you grow, you might lose the very essence of what makes you, you?
In this solo episode, I share a story of a startling comment that made me confront my own evolution. We’ll explore the balance between evolving and losing yourself, between growing your craft and abandoning your voice. Join me for a conversation about change, authenticity, and embracing the magnificent artist you are destined to become.
Check out the full video on our YouTube channel! https://youtu.be/DhHOizsG9Pw Chapters 00:00 - A Story About Becoming 01:10 - A Car Ride and a Startling Question 03:00 - The Pressure to Change as an Artist 04:00 - The Real Question: Who Will You Become? 04:42 - Staying True Isn't Staying Still 05:30 - Your Roots Are Your Foundation 06:10 - Change is Natural, Like a River 06:30 - A Call to Your Own Magnificent Self 07:07 - Final Thoughts on My Own Evolution
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
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What does it take to leap into the unknown for the sake of your creative calling? In this episode, I talk with Lori Tharps, a writer, educator, and creative catalyst who did just that.
Lori shares the powerful story behind her decision to leave a tenured professorship at Temple University to start a new life in Southern Spain.
We explore her journey to create The Sanctuary, a vital community for BIPOC women writers, and dig into her profound belief that storytelling is a tool with the power to change the world. This conversation is a moving testament to the magic that unfolds when you have the courage to build the life you've always imagined.
Chapters 00:00 - Introducing Lori L. Tharps 02:52 - The Childhood Friendship That Sparked a Creative Life 07:25 - From "Lying" to Storytelling: The Gift of a Typewriter 09:47 - What Truly Makes a Good Story? 16:04 - "Watch Me": Defying the Myth That Motherhood and Writing Don't Mix 17:47 - The Physical Feeling of Purpose: Flow vs. Frustration 21:17 - The Leap of Faith: Why She Left a Tenured Professorship for Spain 28:28 - Making Time to Create, Inspired by Our Literary Ancestors 32:53 - The Birth of The Sanctuary for BIPOC Women Writers 37:04 - The Myth of the Solitary Writer and the Power of Community 47:17 - What Does a Real Writing Practice Look Like? (It's More Than Just Writing) 53:34 - The Gospel of Storytelling: How New Narratives Can Save the World
Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel!
https://youtu.be/2mwUOzh-wGk
Connect with Lori: Follow Lori on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loriltharps/?hl=en
Lori’s Website: https://www.loriltharps.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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Ever wonder what a full week in the life of a professional photographer really looks like? I'm pulling back the curtain and taking you with me through a jam-packed week of creative hustle and real-life moments. From juggling four different photoshoots centered on Black Joy to managing client proposals and sneaking in family time, this episode is a raw, honest look at the daily dance of a working artist.
I’m sharing it all—the early morning meditations, the last-minute changes, the on-set surprises, and the quiet moments of reflection that keep everything grounded. This isn’t about a picture-perfect schedule; it’s about the messy, beautiful reality of building a creative career, one day at a time. Join me for a different kind of episode where you’ll hear what it truly takes to get the work done while keeping your creative soul nourished.
Chapters 00:00 - A Week in the Life of a Creative
03:55 - Monday Morning: Prepping for a Day of Shoots
06:17 - Monday Evening: A Full Day's Recap
08:59 - Tuesday Morning: Finding the Shot in a South Side Church
11:29 - Tuesday Evening: Unpacking an Inspirational Day
16:13 - Wednesday Morning: Best-Laid Plans
20:43 - Wednesday Evening: When the Day Goes Sideways
22:49 - Thursday Morning: An Easier Day
25:05 - Thursday Evening: Admin, Selects, and a Surprise Race
29:25 - Friday Morning: Getting It All Done
34:07 - Friday Evening: The Week’s Wrap-Up
Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel!
https://youtu.be/GrtjD7ZZ_AQ
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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How do we find the courage to build a creative career on our own terms? I'm so excited to share my conversation with Ashley Buttercup, a Brooklyn-based painter whose work beautifully captures the quiet, unguarded moments of life. From a childhood nurtured by creative parents to finding her own way through the bustling worlds of fashion and advertising, Ashley's journey is a masterclass in resilience and self-discovery.
In this episode, Ashley shares how she navigated the corporate world while keeping her artistic flame alive, launching her own print art magazine, and eventually taking the leap to pursue painting full-time. We talk about the messy, beautiful reality of balancing motherhood with a demanding creative practice and how a single, high-stakes project of painting 30 portraits in a month became a transformative experience. This conversation is a testament to the power of community, the importance of planting seeds for the future, and the profound beauty found in everyday moments.
Chapters 01:53 - A Creative Foundation: Growing Up with an Architect Father and Fashion-Focused Mother
04:27 - The Road to Temple University and Finding Her Own Path
07:45 - Life After College: From Fashion Internships to Ad Agencies
10:11 - Creating "Snacks Magazine" and Rekindling a Love for Fine Art
12:16 - The Leap of Faith: Quitting the Day Job and the Power of Community
16:08 - The Balancing Act: A Creative's Routine as a Mother and Artist
17:44 - The Harlem's Fashion Row Challenge: Painting 30 Portraits in a Month
28:01 - Evolving a Creative Voice: From Abstract to Documentary Figurative Art
30:25 - The Art of Observation: Capturing Tender Moments in Brooklyn
39:49 - The Traveling Shirt: A Project of History and Connection
Check out the full video interview on our YouTube channel! https://youtu.be/cue7WkqbMPo
Connect with Ashley: Follow Ashley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley_buttercup3000/?hl=en
Ashley’s website: https://www.ashleybuttercup.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever sat down to create, only to find yourself endlessly scrolling for inspiration and losing your voice in the noise?
In this episode, I introduce a concept for clearing out mental buildup to make space for your authentic ideas to emerge.
We'll explore the surprising science behind why our best ideas often emerge during moments of rest, and I'll offer you a few simple, actionable ways to incorporate creative thinking into your own life.
This conversation is an invitation to give your creative voice the room it needs to breathe and to discover the brilliant work that wants to emerge through you.
Chapters 00:00 - A Lesson from the Dentist’s Chair 02:20 - The Buildup of Creative Plaque 04:10 - The Science of Mental Rest and “Attention Residue” 05:32 - When Do You Need a Creative Floss? 06:18 - Three Ways to Practice Creative Floss 08:00 - Why Your Best Work Requires Space, Not More Input 09:23 - A Loving Call to Action
Find our Creative Floss Quiz on Instagram: @thisishowwecreate_
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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Sometimes the job you’ve worked hard for breaks your spirit. In this episode, I chat with interior designer Courtney Robinson.
Courtney shares her winding journey from a childhood dream of acting to studying design at Howard University to navigating the harsh realities of the New York design world.
Courtney opens up about the pivotal moments that urged her to leave the corporate path and to create her studio. Today, Materials and Methods Design is an inclusive space built on mentorship and authentic collaboration.
Courtney’s journey is a powerful story about resilience, redefining success, and about the courage it takes to build a creative life that truly aligns with your soul.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Journey
02:57 From Acting to Interior Design: A Shift in Passion
06:05 The Role of Family in Creative Pursuits
08:54 Navigating the Early Career Landscape
11:44 Experiences of Racism and Gatekeeping in the Industry
23:29 Founding Materials and Methods Design
30:43 Defining Success: A Personal Evolution
Connect with Courtney: Follow Courtney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/materialsmethodsdesign
Courtney’s website: https://www.materialsmethodsdesign.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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Hey friend, for today's mini episode, I'm sharing a poem I wrote in June called "Simple ain't easy." You know how it is when you're explaining your creative dreams to someone and they give you that look? That "well, why don't you just do it then?" look. As if picking up a brush or opening a laptop was the hard part.
I've been thinking a lot lately about this gap between what looks simple from the outside and what actually unfolds when you're living the creative life. Because yes, the act itself (of putting paint to canvas, fingers to keys, voice to microphone) that part really is simple. But everything that happens around that moment? The voices, the bills, the doubt, the way the world tries to convince you that your art doesn't matter? That's where it gets complicated.
This poem came to me after a particularly frustrating week where I kept catching myself making excuses for not creating. And I realized I was treating "simple" and "easy" like they were the same thing. They're not.
So here's "Simple ain't easy," a reminder for all of us who know exactly what we want to create but somehow keep finding ourselves standing still.
Take a breath. Do the simple things. Even if Simple Ain’t Easy.
Chapters 00:00 - A Vulnerable Share From My Journal
01:36 - The Simple Dream and The World's Noise
02:28 - Remembering Your Destination
03:10 - A Call to Tell Your Story
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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A single moment changed everything for Ghanaian visual artist Nana Frimpong Oduro. It began with a quiet walk, a dying tree, and a gifted camera from a stranger. That moment led him away from architecture and toward a new life in photography.
In this episode, I sit down with Nana to explore how he built a career rooted in emotion, storytelling, and self-discovery. He shares how he creates powerful images without technical equipment. Instead, he relies on instinct, connection, and the people closest to him. His work is raw, painterly, and deeply human.
This conversation is for artists seeking clarity on their path. Nana’s story offers insight, encouragement, and a reminder that your creative voice is worth following. Listen in and reconnect with the reason you started creating in the first place.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Nana Frimpong Oduro
02:15 - Early Creative Influences in Ghana
03:48 - The Path to Architecture
05:12 - The Dying Tree: A Journey into Photography Begins
07:34 - Finding a Subject: The Power of Self-Portraiture
08:45 - From Idea to Image: Inside the Creative Process
12:20 - A Sign from the Universe: The Adobe Rising Star Award
14:35 - Finding a Visual Style: Light, Tone, and Emotion
16:30 - Family, Support, and Blossoming as an Artist
18:40 - The Myth of Originality and Unexpected Lessons
20:00 - Describing the Indescribable: Emotions Brought to Life
22:00 - Redefining Success and What's Next
Connect with Nana: Follow Nana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frizzlemadeit/
Nana’s Portfolio: http://bit.ly/3ZRZKYN
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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How do we build a world that truly reflects who we are? In this profound conversation, I sit down with architect and design tastemaker Obiora Nwazota, a powerful voice reshaping our understanding of culture, identity, and design. Obi shares his journey from a childhood in Nigeria, dreaming beyond the prescribed path, to becoming a cultural force in Chicago.
We explore how he challenges the singular narrative of design by asking a simple yet powerful question: If someone walked into your home, would they know an Igbo person lives there? This question opens up a deep dialogue about the importance of ritual, the stories our spaces tell, and the critical mission of his venture, Okpara House, to reclaim and elevate Igbo cultural assets for contemporary life. This episode is a call to all creatives to look deeper into our own heritage and harness our gifts to build a richer, more inclusive world.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Obiora 'Obi' Nwazota
02:50 - Growing Up Igbo: A Childhood of Daydreams
05:05 - The Surprising Link Between Igbo Culture and Haiti
09:12 - Finding Freedom Through Architecture in a New Land
14:42 - Redefining Architecture as the Architecture of Life
20:12 - The Genesis of Okpara House: Filling the Cultural Void
29:59 - The Power of Rituals in Defining Who We Are
34:16 - Reclaiming the African Image: The Story Behind the Book 'Nkemdiche'
44:53 - The Collaborative Process of Creating a Visual Narrative
48:00 - A Final Word on Being a Light for Culture
Connect with Obi: Follow Obi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obiora_nwazota/?hl=en
Obi’s Website: https://www.okparahouse.com/about
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever considered a dramatic career change, a leap from a structured path into the wide-open world of creative expression? Our guest, Ronald Jackson, embodies this very journey. Growing up in the rural Arkansas Delta as the youngest of eleven children, Ronald's early life was steeped in a family legacy of challenging norms. After a distinguished 21-year career in the U.S. Army, a profound "aha moment" set him on an entirely new course.
Join us for an intimate conversation with Ronald as we explore his incredible transition from military life to a celebrated self-taught artist. Discover the story behind the spiritual epiphany that reshaped his path as an artist, how he "partnered with time" to develop his craft without formal training, and the deeply personal inspiration behind his striking mask paintings. If you’re looking for inspiration and action steps to redefine your life's purpose, this episode is for you.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Ronald Jackson
03:15 - A Creative Childhood in the Rural South
05:00 - The Power of Play and Imagination
07:00 - An Unexpected Welcome to the Art World
10:30 - The Epiphany: A Spiritual Awakening
18:50 - The Decision to Partner with Time
24:40 - From Behind the Scenes to Best in Show
27:30 - The Story Behind the Masks
33:00 - Finding Your Artistic Voice Through Self-Discovery
36:15 - Redefining Success: From Being an Artist to Being Authentic
38:15 - Conclusion
Connect With Ronald: Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronald_jackson_artworks
Ronald’s Website: https://www.ronaldjacksonartworks.com/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever considered that the most profound creative education might not happen in a classroom? What if it unfolds in the buzz of a print shop or behind the lens at a world-changing cultural event?
In this episode, I sit down with legendary photographer Roy Lewis, whose journey is a powerful testament to learning by doing. Roy shares how his early days in a Mississippi print shop ignited his creative spark, leading to an unconventional path where Ebony and Jet magazines became his university. He offers a firsthand account of documenting FESTAC '77, the monumental gathering of Black artists and intellectuals in Lagos, Nigeria, and explains how these experiences shaped his iconic eye.
This conversation is an intimate look into a life spent capturing our stories, reminding us that the richest lessons often come from the journey itself, not a predetermined map.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Roy Lewis and His Journey
02:53 Early Influences and First Steps in Photography
06:03 Building Relationships in the Photography World
08:59 Finding His Voice as a Photographer
11:37 The Significance of Festac 1977
14:46 Experiences and Memories from Festac
18:00 Reflections on Cultural Impact and Legacy
Learn more about Roy: https://www.thehistorymakers.org/biography/roy-lewis-40
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.comFollow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_ Subscribe to the Newsletter: www.martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever wondered how to turn a lifelong passion for food into a celebrated career? In this episode, I sit down with the wonderfully creative food photographer, stylist, and cookbook author, Murielle Banackissa. Murielle shares the story of her creative journey, from her childhood memories in the Republic of Congo to her family's move to Montreal.
Join us as we explore how Murielle masterfully blends her Congolese and Russian-Ukrainian heritage into mouth-watering vegan recipes that might just have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about vegan food. We'll dig into how she organically merged her love for cooking and photography, turning a social media trend into a thriving business and eventually, a beautiful cookbook. This conversation is a heartfelt exploration of identity, the courage to follow your own path, and the magic that happens when you slow down and savor the process.
Chapters 00:00 - From Pointe Noire to Montreal: A Creative Childhood
02:49 - Early Food Memories and Creative Pursuits
06:02 - Merging Passion for Food and Photography
09:38 - The Comfort Foods of Home: A Taste of Heritage
11:30 - The Art and Science of Recipe Development
13:59 - A Cookbook Dream Come True
16:34 - Conceptualizing "Savoring": Memories on a Plate
19:19 - The Four-Year Journey to "Savoring"
21:15 - Finding Joy in Slowing Down the Cooking Process
25:06 - Cultivating an Authentic and Unfussy Style
27:24 - Trusting the Process: Advice to Her Younger Self
Connect With Murielle: Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muriellebanackissa/?hl=en
Murielle’s Website: https://muriellebanackissa.com/
Buy Murielle’s Cookbook: https://muriellebanackissa.com/savoring/
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever wished you could write your happy ending? In this solo episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on a personal practice that has been a game-changer for me over the last decade: the quarterly review.
I share how a simple, strategic process, born from my days in program management, can help you track your progress and design a life and career that lights you up.
If you're ready to move from simply having goals to living them, this one's for you.
Chapters 00:00 A Look Back: On Growth
02:50 You Don't Have to Be Perfect to Be Valuable
05:22 The Power of a Quarterly Review
08:08 Writing Your Own Happy Ending
11:05 The Quarterly Check-In: A How-To Guide
12:15 The 7 Questions for Self-Reflection
15:10 Action, Obstacles, and Accountability
16:25 The Magic of a Supportive Partner
17:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
To follow along and to create your own Quarterly Review be sure to download the PDF handout her:
http://bit.ly/45Dkh73
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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How do you find the courage to leave a stable career and chase a creative dream?
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible photographer Mark Clennon, who did exactly that. Mark shares the real story of his leap from a 9-to-5 into the world of full-time commercial photography. We talk about the initial struggles, the community's pivotal role in his journey, and how he built a new life and career after moving to Los Angeles.
I’m excited for you to listen to this conversation. I wish I had had this episode when I first started out as a commercial photographer. Mark shares the challenges and triumphs of defining your artistic voice and building a sustainable creative life on your own terms. Mark’s journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest risks lead to the most rewarding destinations.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Clennon and His Journey
01:59 Early Creative Influences and Curiosity
04:14 The Gift of Photography and Initial Struggles
05:54 Building Community and Transitioning to Full-Time Photography
10:12 Taking the Leap: Quitting the Day Job
12:10 Navigating the Early Days of Freelancing
15:00 First Major Commercial Success and Learning the Trade
17:00 Relocating to Los Angeles: A New Chapter
19:03 Defining Artistic Identity and Signature Style
22:57 Creative Voice and Decision Making
30:26 Building Community in a New City
36:22 Learning from Challenges and Problem Solving
42:31 The Importance of Creative Play and Reflection
Connect With Mark: Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark.c/?hl=en
Mark’s Website: https://www.markclennon.com
Listen to Mark’s TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/mark_clennon_finding_your_point_of_view
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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Step back in time with me to 1977, to a cultural event so monumental it was dubbed the "Black World's Fair." In this episode, we journey to Lagos, Nigeria, for FESTAC '77, the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture.
What made this month-long celebration a landmark of Black pride and unity, and why does its legacy still echo nearly fifty years later? I'll share insights from my conversation with Roy Lewis, the official photographer for the North American zone, who was there to capture it all. Join me as we explore the story of this incredible gathering of artists, thinkers, and performers from across the African diaspora and uncover a piece of our history that continues to inspire.
Chapters (0:00) - Intro
(1:29) - A Journey Back to FESTAC '77
(6:15) - The Rigorous Road to Lagos
(7:05) - Inside the Festival: A Cultural Feast
(9:08) - The Lasting Legacy of FESTAC
(11:53) - A Juneteenth Reflection and a Call to Imagine
Learn About Roy Lewis Festac 77 Documentary on YouTube: http://bit.ly/449xUIB
Ebony Magazine Festac Edition: http://bit.ly/3T3WGoy
Support the Show Website: www.martineseverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martine.severin | @thisishowwecreate_
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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What happens when a child prodigy channels divine inspiration into groundbreaking storytelling?
I sit down with Sophia Stewart, a prolific writer who began writing professionally at just 11 years old. From navigating the complex world of what it means to own your work, Sophia shares powerful insights about trusting your creative vision and the role of faith in artistic success.
We explore the importance of how spiritual guidance shapes artistic decisions and what it takes to stand firm in your creative truth. Whether you're seeking inspiration for your own artistic journey or curious about the intersection of creativity and faith, this conversation offers profound wisdom about following your calling and never giving up on your dreams.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creativity and Artistic Voice
03:06 Sophia Stewart's Early Inspirations and Writing Journey
06:01 The Birth of Iconic Stories: The Matrix and Terminator
08:49 The Evolution of Writing Skills and Techniques
12:07 The Impact of Early Exposure to Creativity
15:11 The Role of Faith and Spiritual Guidance in Success
18:10 Reflections on Life Lessons and Personal Growth
21:01 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations
Connect With Sophia: Email: sophiastewart10@yahoo.com
Purchase Sophia’s books: https://truthaboutmatrix.com/book-store/
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
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Are you searching for stories that feed your creative spirit? In this solo episode, I share four incredible books by women of color essential to your summer reading list.
These books feature narratives of immigration, identity, and magical realism. These reads have resonated deeply with me. I hope they may fuel your artistic journey.
Join me as we explore these powerful voices in contemporary literature that promise to transport, challenge, and inspire you long after turning the last page.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Voices
00:28 Essential Summer Reads by Artists of Color
04:12 Encouragement for Support and Engagement
Books Mentioned on the Episode Everything Inside by Edwidge Danticat
Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
Ghostroots by Pemi Aguda
When We Were Birds by Ayanna Lloyd Banwo
Support the Show Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa.
What happens when hip-hop methodology meets ancient glassblowing traditions?
In this captivating conversation, I sit down with Leo Tecosky, a glass artist who's redefining what it means to honor craft traditions while pushing creative boundaries. From his childhood memories of watching a goldsmith neighbor work to discovering the mesmerizing world of molten glass in art school, Leo shares how early exposure to hip-hop culture became the driving force behind his unique approach to fine art.
We explore how travel, cultural investigation, and an insatiable hunger for knowledge fuel his creative process. Leo opens up about the challenges of bridging technical mastery with artistic vision, and how he uses what he calls "hip-hop methodology" to remix centuries-old techniques for contemporary expression. This is a conversation about finding your creative voice when it exists at the intersection of multiple worlds.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Journeys
03:08 Childhood Influences and Early Artistic Exposure
06:01 Education and the Path to Art School
08:54 Discovering Glassblowing and Artistic Techniques
12:02 Creative Process and Finding Artistic Voice
15:14 The Influence of Hip-Hop on Art
17:57 Exploring Graffiti and Material Aesthetics
21:07 Personal Passions and Lifelong Learning
Featured Video Footage: Corning Museum of Glass (CMoG). (2021, December 2). Leo Tecosky, 36th Rakow Commission Recipient [Video].
YouTube. Leo Tecosky, 36th Rakow Commission Recipient
Connect With Leo: Website: Leo’s Website
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Daniel Espinosa.
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Have you ever woken up feeling inexplicably frustrated for no apparent reason?
This morning, I found myself battling some serious irritation. Through this raw, relatable moment, I discovered something important about what happens when our deepest values start pulling us in opposite directions.
In this mini-episode, I share a simple but powerful approach to navigating those moments when you feel torn between what you want and need to do. Sometimes the most profound insights come from the most ordinary moments.
Chapters 00:00 - Welcome to This is How We Create
00:30 - The Unexplained Frustration: A Morning Quiche Story
01:45 - Discovering Two Warring Values
02:20 - The Framework: Pause, Identify, and Plan Ahead
03:30 - Honoring Both Values While Moving Forward
04:15 - Call to Action and Closing
Support the Show Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa.
Have you ever had a moment when everything you thought you knew about your path suddenly shifted?
In today's episode, I sit down with textile artist Qualeasha Wood, whose innovative work bridges digital imagery with traditional craft techniques. She reveals the unexpected moments that led her from a completely different path into textile art. Qualeasha also shares the profound encounter that changed the trajectory of her art practice.
Through stories about family, creativity, and finding her authentic voice, Qualeasha offers powerful insights for any artist navigating their creative journey.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Qualeasha Wood and Her Art Journey
02:57 The Impact of Family and Community on Creativity
06:06 Early Influences and the Search for Representation in Art
08:53 Navigating the Art World: From Discouragement to Discovery
11:47 Finding a Medium: The Shift from Illustration to Printmaking
15:02 The Role of Textiles in Qualeasha's Artistic Expression
18:08 The Influence of Faith Ringgold and Career Shifts
21:09 Exploring Printmaking and the Intersection of Art and Identity
24:35 The Journey into Textile
27:50 Exploring Identity through Art
32:08 The Evolution of Artistic Mediums
37:12 Navigating Graduate School Decisions
41:00 Redefining Success in Art
47:35 Legacy and Impact through Textiles
Connect With Qualeasha: Website: Qualeasha’s Website
Instagram: Qualeasha Wood
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin. This episode was edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
- Follow us on social media
- Share with fellow creatives
If you’ve ever needed to get your bum into gear but couldn’t find motivation, this episode is for you. In this mini-episode, I share my personal toolkit for getting things done. Listen in for the tools and leave knowing that next time your brain tries to lure you with procrastination, you’ll be able to resist temptation.
Chapters 00:00 The Struggle with Procrastination
02:44 Understanding the Cognitive Behavioral Triangle
04:08 The Power of Accountability
06:46 Finding the Right Accountability Partner
07:44 Creative Accountability Techniques
09:33 Tools for Enhanced Focus and Productivity
Resources Mentioned: The platform that connects you with work partners worldwide: Focusmate
Pomodoro timer app/website for task management: Pomofocus
My favorite work with me videos: Celine and why not work with Marie Forleo
Support the Show Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa.
Have you wondered how artists manage to capture the essence of their subjects?
In today’s episode, I sit down with portrait artist Tafy LaPlanche, whose cultural background shapes her distinctive artistic approach. She shares why certain creative detours—including a complete break from art ultimately strengthened her artistic voice.
Through personal stories and artistic insights, Tafy offers powerful inspiration for anyone navigating their own creative path while searching for authentic connection in their work.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tafy LaPlanche
02:54 The Journey of an Afro-Latina Artist
06:11 Finding Artistic Voice Through Diverse Experiences
09:02 The Influence of Cultural Background on Art
11:51 Rediscovering Passion During a Pandemic
14:58 The Impact of Fashion Photography on Portraiture
17:47 Creating Authentic Connections Through Portraits
21:07 The Process of Capturing Subjects
23:54 Dreams of Mural Art and Community Engagement
27:02 Balancing Flight Attendant Life with Art
30:01 The Importance of Focus in Artistic Creation
33:04 Advice to Younger Self and Conclusion
CONNECT WITH TAFY: Website: https://lepouf-art.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lepouf_art/
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
- Follow us on social media
- Share with fellow creatives
Are you struggling to maintain creative momentum when motivation disappears?
In this mini-episode, we chat about the neuroscience behind keeping promises to yourself. Through a battle with temptation at the grocery store, I share how small decisions rewire your brain and build creative resilience.
Tune in for practical strategies that may help you overcome seemingly impossible deadlines. This episode provides both scientific understanding and actionable wisdom for artists facing creative blocks, showing why each choice matters more than you realize.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Importance of Representation
01:26 Neuroscience of Keeping Promises to Yourself
03:15 The Battle of Impulses and Commitment
06:32 Building Neural Pathways Through Consistency
09:19 The Power of External Accountability
12:40 Creating a Supportive Community
14:10 Making Choices for Your Future Self
Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate
Subscribe to our newsletter, Creative Matters: Martine's Substack
Production Credits
This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa.
What drives you to translate your innermost thoughts into visual expression?
Visual artist Lana Abraham-Murawski shares her creative journey and how her unique cultural heritage shaped her artistic style.
In this intimate conversation, Lana reveals the transformative power of mentorship in her development and her thoughtful approach to balancing artistic ambitions with family life.
She takes us behind the scenes of her striking piece 'Meeting of the Mind,' exploring how she weaves themes of nature, society, and human connection into her work.
Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Lana illustrates how art becomes not just a form of self-expression but a powerful bridge between identity, community, and the natural world.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Lana Abraham Moravsky
03:03 Lana's Artistic Journey and Background
06:10 Exploring Identity Through Art
08:52 The Evolution of Artistic Style
11:56 Transitioning from College to Professional Art
15:02 Balancing Art and Life
17:50 Deep Dive into Specific Art Pieces
20:48 The Concept Behind 'Meeting of the Mind'
26:41 Exploring Imagination Through Art
27:47 The Evolution of Artistic Expression
29:30 Symbolism in Art: The Peregrine Orbs
35:20 Nature and Identity in Artistic Creation
40:25 Cultural Roots and Artistic Influence
45:04 Finding Community and Collectors
47:26 Advice for Aspiring Artists
Connect with Our Guest: Lana’s Website: Lana Abraham
Follow Lana on Instagram: Lana Abraham-Murawski on Instagram
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
Production Credits This episode was produced by Martine Severin. This episode has been edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinosa.
In this mini episode, I’m sharing something that’s been on my heart lately: that uncomfortable place where our creative ideas get stuck. You know the one — where you’re holding onto something beautiful, but fear, perfectionism, or just plain old procrastination keeps it tucked away.
This reflection was sparked by a recent conversation with my sister. She has an amazing idea she’s been sitting on since the pandemic, and it got me thinking… How often do we do this to ourselves? How often do we protect our ideas so much that we stop them from growing?
In this episode, I talk about the power of small steps — the kind that might seem insignificant at first, but that slowly, steadily builds momentum. If you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed about where to start, this one’s for you. No pressure, just a gentle nudge to begin. Even the tiniest action matters.
Let’s walk through it together.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Life
02:58 The Dangers of Limbo and Resistance
06:14 Navigating Procrastination and Community Support
09:04 Taking Small Steps Towards Momentum
11:54 Embracing Your Creative Journey
Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
Production Credits This podcast episode is produced and written by Martine Severin and edited by Daniel Espinosa
Have you ever wondered how childhood obsessions evolve into creative careers? Fiction writer Pemi Aguda takes us on her journey from creating mini-magazines as a six-year-old in Lagos, Nigeria to publishing internationally acclaimed fiction.
In today's chat, Pemi reveals how her "lonesome" childhood with books transformed into a writing career that explores Nigerian women's experiences and the weight of ancestry.
Stay for Pemi's tips on how to become a better writer and on how to find your artistic voice as a author.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide as part of a fictional narrative. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know you are not alone. Resources for support are listed below. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:56 Pemi Aguda's Journey from Lagos to Writing 05:50 The Evolution of Pemi's Writing Process 08:55 Understanding Creative Voice and Teaching 12:01 The Art of Revision and Storytelling 14:52 Exploring Themes in Pemi's Work 17:59 The Influence of Ancestry on Writing 21:12 Literary Influences and Inspirations 24:11 Writing Habits and Routines 27:06 Life Beyond Writing: Hobbies and Interests 29:55 Conclusion and Future Works
Connect with Pemi Aguda * Website: pemiaguda.com * Instagram: @pemi.i * Order "Ghost Roots" : Penguin Random House
Connect with Your Host * Website: martineseverin.com * Instagram:Instagram * Newsletter:Creative Matters
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona and Daniel Espinoza.
Suicide Prevention Resources American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/
24/7 Crisis Hotline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988lifeline.org If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. Veterans, press 1 when calling.
Crisis Text Line Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7
Are you self-sabotaging your creative success? In this mini-episode, we explore the psychology behind why we often set ourselves up for failure just when opportunities arise. Drawing from personal observations and psychological research, Martine Severin examine the "upper limit problem" - our internal thermostat for success - and offer practical strategies to break through these self-imposed barriers.
Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to This Is How We Create * 02:24 Understanding the Upper Limit Problem * 04:38 The Grief of Transformation * 06:52 How Social Media Amplifies Our Limits * 09:10 Strategies to Overcome Upper Limit Problems * 11:36 Invitation to Connect and Subscribe
Connect With Us * Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
Support the Show * Leave a review to help other creators of color discover the show * Subscribe to the Creative Matters newsletter for weekly inspiration
Production Credits Podcast produced and edited by Martine Severin.
What happens when a pediatric nurse turned wedding planner discovers her ultimate calling in champagne? Join our conversation with Samantha Danielle, founder of LoveLuvv a sparkling wine brand. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about career pivots, entrepreneurial tenacity, and building a purpose-driven luxury brand.
Samantha shares her remarkable journey from nursing to wedding planning to creating a social impact champagne brand that donates 10% of proceeds to domestic violence causes, proving that when vision meets determination, extraordinary things happen.
Chapters * 00:00 - The Journey of Samantha Danielle * 23:25 - Building a Social Impact Brand * 20:11 - Navigating the Champagne Industry * 25:28 - Sales and Marketing: A Dual Approach * 27:11 - Translating Skills: From Nursing to Business * 29:15 - Creativity in Branding: Telling Love Stories * 32:42 - Future Plans: Education and Non-Alcoholic Options * 35:41 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Lessons Learned * 41:27 - Living Life: Balancing Work and Leisure
Connect with Samantha * https://www.instagram.com/loveluvv_sparkling/ * LoveLuvv Experience * Samantha Danielle
Connect with Martine * Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
Production Credits This episode was produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
Have you ever reached for a glass of wine after a stressful day, only to realize you're avoiding something important? In this intimate mini-episode, we talk about alcohol and anxiety, revealing how our emotions serve as powerful messengers in our creative lives. S
Chapters/Timestamps:
- 00:00 - Introduction to Emotions as Messengers
- 02:52 - Personal Journey with Alcohol and Emotions
- 05:45 - Understanding Emotions in the Creative Process
Resources Mentioned:
- Huberman Lab podcast: What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain and Health
- The Triangle Method (as featured in Creative Matters)
Support the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Santiago Cardona.
Discover how Violeta Encarnación balances freelancing, illustration, and creative evolution. She reflects on her journey from growing up in Cuba to becoming a book illustrator, her experience at SVA, and her shift into tattooing. Violeta opens up about the realities of freelancing, managing carpal tunnel syndrome, and honing her distinctive color palette. She also shares how nature inspires her work, the significance of personal connections in art, and her upcoming projects.
Show Notes:
We talk with Violeta Encarnación, a freelance illustrator, about her creative journey and experiences in book illustration. She shares memories of growing up in Cuba, the impact of her artistic family, and her transition to life in the U.S. Violeta reflects on her time at SVA, her path into tattooing, and the lessons she has learned as a freelancer. She opens up about managing an unpredictable schedule, coping with carpal tunnel syndrome, and staying authentic in her work. Violeta also discusses her distinctive color palette, nature’s influence on her art, and the role of personal connections in creative careers.
Episode Highlights * Childhood experiences and cultural background. * Learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. * Book illustration involves collaboration, patience, and the ability to convey complex emotions through images. * Developing a unique color palette takes time and experimentation, and it can be influenced by nature and personal experiences. * Finding one's voice in art and maintaining personal connections are essential for success.
Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to Violeta Encarnacion * 02:55 Cultural Influences on Creativity * 05:50 Journey from Cuba to the U.S. * 08:48 Navigating Language Barriers * 11:54 Artistic Development and Education * 15:05 Tattooing and Its Impact on Art * 17:50 Freelance Career and Illustration Work * 21:01 Illustrating Children's Books * 24:31 Navigating Relationships in Publishing * 25:43 Surprising Lessons in Illustration * 27:16 The Journey to Illustrating a Book * 32:30 Understanding Project Timelines * 36:14 Managing Cash Flow as a Freelancer * 39:54 Developing a Unique Color Palette * 46:28 Exciting Future Projects
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Website: Violeta Encarnacion
Instagram: Violeta
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
- Follow us on social media
- Share with fellow creatives
Do you feel uncomfortable with the sales process as a creative?
In this candid mini-episode, Martine Severin tackles the topic many creatives dread: sales. Martine breaks down practical strategies for artists to sell their work authentically without feeling like "used car salesperson."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creative Life
00:23 The Visibility to Sales Paradox
03:16 Understanding Sales for Artists
10:19 Building Community and Networking
14:00 Cultivating an Audience and Collectors
20:07 The Sales Process Explained
27:35 Transforming Sales Mindset
Perfect for: Artists, photographers, designers, and creatives who feel uncomfortable with the sales process but want to improve their results.
Danielle Chutinthranond: E28
Maria Bayer: https://members.mariabayer.com/2025-is/
Maria on Instagram
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
#CreativeBusiness #ArtSales #CreativeEntrepreneurship #SalesForArtists
Have you ever wondered how a movie gets made? Or better yet, where do the ideas from movies come from? And if you have your sight on making a short film, wouldn't it be great if someone helped you buff your idea and make the end product simply spectacular?
Shannan E. Johnson is that someone! As a former creative executive at NBCU/The Syfy Channel, Shannan left her full-time gig to become a storytelling expert who develops creatives and their ideas for the screen. As a script consultant, teacher, and therapist, she uses her innate understanding of storytelling to make compelling TV and movies.
In today's podcast, Shannan walks us through her wide-ranging career and shares what it's like to work in Hollywood. She offers invaluable tips on how to write and tell a great story. I walked away from our conversation with a framework on how to approach fear and how to position my vision to achieve my desired outcomes!
As you listen to the interview, the conversation will skip forward here and there - this is because Shannan's audio cut off at certain points, but the insights remain powerful throughout.
Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to Shannan E. Johnson * 02:09 The Journey into Storytelling * 07:14 Understanding the Craft of Screenwriting * 12:23 The Differences in Storytelling Mediums * 18:19 Transitioning to Executive Roles in Hollywood * 24:15 Navigating the Business of Hollywood * 26:48 The Evolution of Storytelling in TV * 35:03 Navigating the Transition from Executive to Entrepreneur * 41:08 Building Confidence and Leadership Skills * 47:09 The Professional Pen: Empowering Screenwriters * 51:03 Introducing Truffle Sauce: A New Film Experience
Connect with Shannan: * Website: http://www.shannanejohnson.com/ * The Professional Pen: https://www.awriterforyourwriter.com/bio.html * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannanejohnson/ * The Professional Pen IG: https://www.instagram.com/theprofessionalpen/
Connect with your host: * Website: Martine Severin * Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create * Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie.
In this mini-episode, we explore the unexpected parallel between toe yoga and creative practice. Through her personal experience with a daily exercises, our host, Martine Severin, reveals how small, consistent efforts lead to remarkable changes over time – both in physical flexibility and creative mastery.
Martine challenges the myth of natural talent, showing how persistence and consistent practice often triumph over innate ability. This episode serves as your permission slip to begin that creative project you've been postponing – no matter how small your daily commitment might be.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Creative Journeys
00:27 Understanding Toe Yoga
04:22 The Metaphor of Toe Yoga in Creativity
08:10 Taking Action and Consistency in Practice
Key Takeaways:
- The benefits of toe yoga extend beyond foot health to our entire physical structure
- Just 1-5 minutes of daily practice can lead to significant improvements in any skill
- Consistent practice often trumps natural talent in creative pursuits
- You don't need expensive equipment or extensive training to begin your creative journey
- Stop waiting for permission and start with small, manageable commitments
Stay in touch:
Website: MartineSeverin.com
Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack - Creative Matters
We welcome fine art painter Rhonda K Brown, whose artistic story is deeply intertwined with a remarkable family legacy in the art world. Join us as Rhonda pulls back the curtain on her creative journey - from the influential gallery environment of her youth to her eventual return to painting after exploring other paths. How did growing up surrounded by prominent artists shape her artistic vision? What drew her back to the canvas after time away? And what inspired her to create a new platform supporting fellow artists? Tune in for an intimate conversation about art, inspiration, and the mission to elevate diverse creative voices.
WHAT YOU'LL HEAR: * Rhonda's personal journey as a fine art painter and how she developed her unique style * The remarkable legacy of the Malcolm Brown Gallery and its influence on her work * Her approach to selecting color palettes and how she trained her artistic eye * A treasure trove of recommendations for both historical and contemporary artists worth following * The story behind Critique House, a new venture co-founded with her son to support BIPOC artists
CHAPTERS: * 00:00 Introduction to Rhonda Brown's Creative Journey * 01:31 The Malcolm Brown Gallery: A Family Legacy * 10:59 Influences and Inspirations in Art * 17:22 Honoring Everyday People Through Art * 21:12 Navigating Artistic Challenges and Community Support * 24:01 The Evolution of Rhonda's Color Palette * 29:05 Sources of Inspiration and Artistic Growth * 34:02 The Journey Back to Art and Critique House * 38:57 Critique House: Supporting BIPOC Artists
KEY MOMENTS: * Discover how Rhonda approaches her creative practice and what fuels her artistic vision * Learn about the influential Malcolm Brown Gallery and its place in art history * Hear how Rhonda celebrates everyday people through her artistic expression * Explore the development of her distinctive color palette and artistic eye
ABOUT RHONDA K BROWN: Rhonda K Brown is an accomplished fine art painter whose work has garnered recognition for its distinctive style. Beyond her personal artistic practice, she's committed to creating opportunities for other artists.
CONNECT & FOLLOW: * Rhonda K Brown: @rhondabrownfineart * Rhonda’s Website: https://www.rkbfineart.com * Martine Séverin: martineseverin.com | @martine.sev
This episode has been edited by Casandra Voltolina
In this essential episode, host Martine Severin draws from her experience creating an artist statement for Scope Miami to provide a practical roadmap for artists struggling with this crucial professional document. From understanding your audience to finding your authentic voice, this episode breaks down the process into manageable steps that will help your work connect with galleries, collectors, and grant committees.
Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to Artist Statements * 03:13 Understanding Your Audience and Purpose * 06:04 Essential Elements of an Artist Statement * 09:09 Approaches to Writing Your Artist Statement * 11:58 Common Pitfalls to Avoid * 14:47 Refining Your Artist Statement
What You'll Learn: * How to tailor your statement for different contexts and audiences * The five key components that make your statement effective * Practical structural approaches to organize your thoughts * Common mistakes that undermine your professional presentation * Techniques to overcome writer's block and find your authentic voice
Free Download: Get the Artist Statement Development Worksheet mentioned in this episode! This step-by-step guide walks you through targeted exercises that help you generate a compelling statement.
Key Insights from Martine: "Despite having AI at our disposal, writing an artist statement isn't a breeze. You still need to create a statement that helps collectors and curators understand the context of your work, creates a bridge between your artistic intentions and the viewer's experience, and distinguishes you in a competitive field."
"Your statement should sound like you, not an academic journal, not a marketing brochure, not what you think a 'serious artist' should sound like."
"The best artist statements aren't written in a single sitting. Give yourself permission to explore, experiment, and refine, just as you would with any creative project."
Support the Show: * Website: MartineSeverin.com * Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate * Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack - Creative Matters
This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
This week on This Is How We Create: Award-winning photographer Tobi Shinobi reveals his fascinating journey from courtroom to camera lens. Discover the unique productivity framework that transformed his creative process and catapulted his career to global recognition.
Episode Highlights * The Name: How a playground nickname evolved into one of photography's most recognizable brands * The Pivot: Why Tobi abandoned a successful legal career to pursue photography * The Symmetry Connection: How childhood Lego obsessions influenced his distinctive visual style * The Game-Changer: Tobi's intriguing "7 out of 10 principle" that revolutionized his workflow * The Success Story: From Instagram experiments to Sony ambassador and TikTok creative strategist
Sneak Peek: The 7 Out of 10 Principle Tobi introduces his enigmatic productivity framework that helped him post 3-4 quality images daily while maintaining his signature high standards. What are the ten elements he considers, and why is hitting just seven of them the sweet spot? Tune in to find out how this approach might transform your creative practice.
Professional Insights * Why photographing buildings became Tobi's specialty (hint: they're never late to photoshoots) * The small details that separate amateurs from professionals in client relationships * How self-taught photographers can bridge the knowledge gap when transitioning to professional work
Quotable Moments "The worst piece of advice I've ever received was 'don't become a photographer'... I've been able to travel the world, make long-term friendships, change my life... all because I believed in myself."
Connect With This Is How We Create Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Braila West, Alexis Sanchez and Martine Severin.
Connect With Tobi Shinobi Follow Tobi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobishinobi
Website: https://www.tobishinobi.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Tobishinobi
Have you ever committed to creating even when you didn't believe in yourself?
In this mini-episode of 'This Is How We Create,' Martine Severin explores the quiet yet persistent power that drives artists to create even when faced with doubt, external pressures, and self-criticism. She shares a profound revelation from a cinematographer who admitted there were times in her successful career when she simply didn't believe in herself - yet continued moving forward.
Episode Highlights
- There's a gap between creative dreams and current reality that can feel like failure
- Creative resilience isn't flashy - it's about honoring the contract you made with yourself to be an artist
- The difference between orchestrating success versus influencing it
- How separating actions from fluctuations in self-perception can liberate your creative process
- What if the next level of your art requires stillness rather than hustle?
- Embracing your unique way of being and seeing the world
- How generosity and genuine connection can help navigate the "valley of doubt"
Key Takeaways
- Creative resilience is essential for navigating the natural ebbs and flows of artistic life
- External metrics shouldn't overshadow the simple joy of creating
- Stillness and quiet can lead to deeper creative insights than forced productivity
- Community support makes navigating doubt easier - we're not meant to walk this path alone
- Your creativity is defined by commitment, not belief in yourself
Your Creative Assignment
- Reconnect with the original contract you made with yourself about making art
- Carve out time for deliberative practice - 15 minutes of just being
- Ask yourself: "How might I be if I believed in myself every moment of the day?"
- Reach out to someone in your community with genuine curiosity - not to get something, but to give your full attention
Sound Bites
"What if the next level to your art requires something that's counterintuitive? What if it requires stillness?"
"Generosity turns out is a secret passcode and a password that opens doors, especially for those of us who find traditional networking exhausting."
"Your creativity isn't defined by beliefs or doubts, it's defined by your commitment."
Episode Chapters
00:00 The Creative Journey Begins 02:45 Navigating Doubt and Resilience 06:12 The Power of Stillness 09:01 Community and Connection in Creativity 11:54 Commitment Over Belief
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
Struggling to get your art in front of the right people? Then this episode is your roadmap.
Join multidisciplinary artist Courtney Minor on "This Is How We Create" as she unveils the emotional underpinnings of her creative journey—from finding fresh inspiration in Vietnam to transforming personal therapy into powerful art. Courtney doesn't just inspire; she delivers actionable strategies for marketing your work, building a devoted email list, experimenting with unexpected materials, and connecting with collectors who truly value your vision.
This isn't just about making art—it's about making making a place for your art in the world
Here's what we discuss:
- Courtney Minor is a multidisciplinary artist specializing in collage, photography, and film.
- Her trip to Vietnam was a pivotal moment that reignited her creative spark.
- Art serves as a therapeutic outlet for Courtney, helping her express emotions she struggles to verbalize.
- She combines various mediums, including collage and graffiti, to convey her messages.
- Courtney's journey reflects the importance of embracing one's identity and creative voice. Courtney creates prototypes in her head before starting.
- She collects artifacts and photographs for inspiration.
- Plexiglass allows viewers to see their reflection in her work.
- Prototyping is essential for her larger art pieces.
- Sourcing materials often involves unconventional places like Home Depot.
- Understanding her audience has been crucial for her sales.
- Building an email list is vital for artist outreach.
- Social media algorithms reward video content over static images.
- Connecting all platforms is important for artist visibility.
- Artwork Archive simplifies the inventory process for artists.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Courtney Minor and Her Art Journey
02:04 The Turning Point: Vietnam Trip and Creative Rebirth
12:08 Childhood Influences and Early Artistic Aspirations
16:57 Emotional Expression Through Art: The Therapeutic Process
20:06 Navigating Personal Loss and Its Impact on Creativity
30:03 The Artistic Process: From Emotion to Creation
31:07 The Art of Prototyping
36:47 From Ideas to Canvas
40:01 Sourcing Materials for Art
43:13 Marketing and Selling Art
55:26 Exploring New Mediums and Techniques
Get to know Courtney: https://thecmdstudio.com/pages/copy-of-about-courtney-minor
Courtney’s Instagram: heyitscourtneyminor
Buy Courtney’s Art: https://thecmdstudio.com/collections
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Ever find yourself stuck in decision limbo, saying "maybe" to opportunities that deep down you know aren't right for you?
In this episode of "This is How We Create," Martine Severin unpacks her game-changing "Waffle Rule," a powerful framework that will transform how you make decisions in your creative career and beyond.
You'll discover:
- Why indecision is actually a form of decision-making (and what your brain is trying to tell you)
- How to interpret that "static" feeling when you're waffling between choices
- The surprising connection between hesitation and your true values
- A practical 5-step plan to build your "no muscle" and reclaim precious creative energy
- Real-world examples from creatives like photographer Anastassia Withey and web designer Elsa Omri who made tough choices to honor their creative voices
- Download the workbook that goes along with this episode: Waffle Rule Workbook
This episode grew from one of our most popular Creative Matters newsletter pieces, proving that decision paralysis is something so many of us struggle with as creative professionals of color. Whether you're considering a career pivot, evaluating collaboration opportunities, or simply trying to protect your creative time, the Waffle Rule offers the clarity you've been searching for.
Hit play to reclaim your decision-making power and discover why sometimes your most powerful creative tool is simply saying "no.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creative Life
00:25 Understanding Indecision
05:12 The Waffle Rule Explained
07:42 Applying the Waffle Rule
09:09 Conclusion and Call to Action
Support the Show
Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
What happens when a medical student abandons her stethoscope for a camera, moves to a foreign country where she knows no one, and transforms an abandoned garage into a thriving art collective?
In this episode, we explore the multifaceted world of communication designer and photographer Ankita Das, whose work transcends traditional medium boundaries to create powerful narratives around identity, health, and community.
Ankita shares how being the daughter of academics (a mathematician mother and surgeon father) initially set her on a medical path before discovering her artistic talents. She discusses her unique professional identity, describing herself as "juggling between a designer who photographs and a photographer who designs."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ankita Das and Her Creative Journey
02:56 The Duality of Identity in Creativity
05:56 Artistic Influences from Childhood
09:07 Exploring Dating Culture Through Art
11:55 The Intersection of Performance and Design
15:14 Navigating PCOS Through Artistic Expression
18:02 Creating Community Through Espace Tricote
21:01 Understanding Space and Communication Design
24:05 Collective Chimera: Building a Supportive Community
27:01 Funding and Sustainability of Artistic Spaces
29:55 The Impact of Community on Creativity
32:52 Sharing Work Beyond the Community
36:05 Balancing Work and Personal Life
38:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Website: https://ankitadas.com/
Instagram: Herecomesthepotato
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
In this mini-episode, we dive into something we ALL struggle with as creatives - the hidden cost of context switching. Ever feel like you've run a mental marathon without actually finishing anything substantial? Turns out there's a name for that overwhelmed feeling: attention residue.
Martine shares her personal struggles with toggling between creator, marketer, and business manager modes - and how neuroscience shows our brains simply aren't designed for these rapid-fire transitions. (Did you know it takes an average of 23 minutes to fully regain focus after an interruption? Whew!)
But don't worry! This isn't just about naming the problem - we’ve got practical solutions in her context switching survival kit:
- Time-blocking with buffers (separate your maker days from your manager days!)
- The two-minute reset ritual for those unavoidable transitions
- The threshold technique that creates clean breaks between work sessions
If you're a creative entrepreneur feeling stretched in a million directions, this episode is your nudge to protect your creative focus.
Support the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This episode of This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
THIS IS HOW WE CREATE
PODCAST WORKFLOW
Episode Number: 121
Guest Name: Kianne Patrice Hutchinson
Title: 121. How to Develop a Unique Artistic Voice - Kianne Patrice Hutchinson
Description:
Learn how digital artist Kianne Patrice Hutchinson balances pharmacy and art, blending vibrant textures, augmented reality, and AI. She reflects on her journey from Jamaica, creative themes, and future projects in licensing and collaborations.
Show Notes:
We chat with Kianne Patrice Hutchinson, a digital artist balancing a career in pharmacy with her passion for art. She shares her journey from Jamaica, where early exposure to photography and painting sparked her creative path. In this conversation, we explore how to incorporate augmented reality, AI, and unique textures into your vibrant work. Don’t miss the part of our conversation where Kianne talks about how an opportunity to license her work came about.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kianne Patrice Hutchinson
02:39 The Duality of Art and Science
05:41 Early Influences and Artistic Beginnings
09:02 Navigating Career Paths: Pharmacy and Art
12:19 The Early Days of Artistic Pursuits
15:18 Developing a Unique Artistic Voice
19:30 Building a Client Base and Gaining Recognition
23:53 Incorporating Augmented Reality in Art
26:33 Exploring Themes in 'The Church Bells Toll'
38:15 Advice to My Younger Self
41:03 Passions Beyond Art
43:05 Future Projects and Collaborations
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:
Instagram: https://www.kiannepatrice.com/
Website: kianne.patrice
Support the Show
Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
In this episode, we pulls back the curtain on our creative process, revealing the digital ecosystem that brings the podcast interviews to life. If you've ever felt intimidated by the technical side of podcasting, tune in to discover a your new favorite tool.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Creative Journey
00:27 Behind the Scenes of Podcasting
02:53 Tools of the Trade
05:46 Visual and Interactive Elements
09:10 Editing and Publishing Process
11:59 The Courage to Create
Support the Show Website: Martine Severin Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine's Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
Tools mentioned
Riverside.fm
Lately.ai
Napkin.ai
Canva.com
Veed.io
Audacity.com
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
- Follow us on social media
- Share with fellow creatives
We chat with Kyra Wells, a graphic designer and advocate for creative community and mentorship. She reflects on her path from a young artist to her role at American Greetings and leadership at AIGA Cleveland.
Kyra explores the role of playfulness in design, supporting emerging creatives, and her course, You Are Not an Imposter, which helps designers gain confidence in their careers.
Episode Highlights * Kyra's journey reflects the value of mentorship. * She started her own business during the pandemic. * Injecting fun into work is a core value at American Greetings. * Kyra emphasizes the importance of community in design. * Sustainability in design is a growing focus for AIGA Cleveland. * The course 'You Are Not an Imposter' addresses common struggles * Balancing personal projects with professional responsibilities is essential.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kyra Wells and Her Creative Journey
05:12 Kyra's Early Inspirations and Path to Graphic Design
12:23 Navigating the Job Market and Building a Career
18:34 The Importance of Community and Mentorship
23:03 Finding Creative Voice Through Client Work
26:33 Creating Fun and Engaging Content at American Greetings
29:11 AIGA Cleveland: Building Community and Opportunities
32:21 Inspiration from Local Designers and Educators
34:10 Creating the Course: You Are Not an Imposter
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Kyra's website: https://kyrajwells.com/
Connect with Kyra on Instagram: @kyrajwells
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
- Follow us on social media
- Share with fellow creatives
In this mini episode, we reflect on our progress with the creative goals you set at the beginning of the year. We discuss the common challenges of procrastination and hesitation while offering practical strategies to overcome these barriers and reconnect with creative intentions.
Key Points * Take time to honestly assess your progress on goals set earlier in the year * Recognize that people approach their creative journeys differently - some change directions like rivers, others face procrastination * Transform obligation into joy by infusing your creative journey with playfulness * Consider seeking accountability partners to witness your struggles and celebrate victories * Remember that these challenges are universal - even the host creates these episodes based on her own struggles
Quote "We are not our delays, nor are we our detours. Some of us manifest our intentions with natural grace, and other people they discover that certain goals like jumping from great heights don't really align with their inner, their deeper wisdom."
Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on Goals and Progress
02:52 Overcoming Procrastination and Hesitation
06:08 Embracing Accountability and Personal Growth
Closing Message "Whatever approach you choose, let it resonate with your spirit and with your gut. You have full permission to embrace whatever you choose... Please stay creative and above all, be tender with your magnificent self."
Connect With Us: * Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack * Watch the Youtube Version of this video * This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
Production Credits: Martine Severin produced and edited this episode of This is How We Create.
Previous Episodes in This Series: * Episode 112: Roy de Carava * Episode 114: Margaret Burroughs
In this illuminating episode of "This is How We Create," host Martine Severin sits down with Ube Urban, a multifaceted creative leader who brings his Pacific Islander heritage to the forefront of his design practice and mentorship approach.
Born in Hawaii with Japanese, Black, Native American, and Filipino roots, Ube shares his journey from island life to becoming a head of customer experience in corporate America. Through candid conversation, he reveals the challenges of maintaining cultural identity while navigating mainland expectations and professional environments where he is often "the only one."
In this episode, you'll discover: * How Ube's upbringing in Hawaii shaped his approach to organization, presentation, and identity * The concept of "invisible work" in both design and cultural navigation * Ube's framework for mentorship helps others discover and maintain authentic personal brands * The struggles of cultural displacement and the pressure to compartmentalize identity in professional settings * Why "authenticity" can be a complicated concept for those with multicultural backgrounds
Ube offers valuable insights for creatives navigating multicultural identities, providing a compelling perspective on maintaining cultural roots while forging new professional paths. His story reminds us that true decolonization of design means embracing the full intersectionality of our experiences.
Quotes from the episode: "When I came to the mainland, I was essentially this person kind of holding this gem... and then I had battle balloons over time and my shiny diamond turned into this rough rock."
"Being in Hawaii, you're just like, 'This is who I am, this is who we all are.' I don't have to prove to you my existence or my family or pride. We all share that."
"How can you control something that a corporation, an agency, or a company cannot control? That is the hardest part."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ube Urban and His Work
03:31 Ube's Background and Identity
10:07 Navigating Cultural Identity and Professional Spaces
16:49 The Journey of Self-Discovery
23:24 Transitioning from Hawaii to the Mainland
26:21 Ube's Framework for Authentic Branding
31:17 Questions for Self-Discovery
38:10 The Challenge of Individuality in a Conformist Society
46:08 Reflections on Growth and Future Generations
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Website: https://www.ubeurban.com/
Linkedin: ubeurban
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
What if the biggest creative breakthroughs come from breaking your own rules? In this Black History Month mini-episode, we explore the remarkable artistic journey of 97-year-old sculptor and painter Lillian Thomas Burwell, whose creative evolution spans nearly a century of American history.
Episode Highlights: * Growing up during the Great Depression, Burwell learned transformative creativity from watching her mother turn silk shipping sacks into elegant curtains * Her artistic journey from realism to bold abstract expressionism during the Civil Rights era * Her innovative techniques combining canvas, wood, and heated plexiglass * Burwell's intuitive creative process: "I don't know what the second step is until the first step is completed"
Key Quote: "I've always believed in taking chances and going into unexplored territory." - Lillian Thomas Burwell
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Artistic Resilience
01:27 Lillian Thomas Burwell: A Journey Through Time
03:54 The Evolution of Artistic Expression
06:30 Transformation and Creative Courage
About the Artist: Lillian Thomas Burwell's work represents a lifetime of artistic innovation, from her early influences during the Depression to her current sculptural pieces that seem to grow from walls "like living things." Her art demonstrates the power of transformation and creative courage.
Connect With Us: * Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack * Watch the Youtube Version of this video * This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
Production Credits: Martine Severin produced and edited this episode of This is How We Create.
Previous Episodes in This Series: * Episode 112: Roy de Carava * Episode 114: Margaret Burroughs
Ever wonder how top creatives land those dream campaigns with GEICO, Target, and Old Navy? In this episode, art director Ashley Bozeman pulls back the curtain on the art of the perfect pitch.
In this episode of This Is How We Create, host Martine Severin sits down with art director Ashley Bozeman for an intimate conversation about creative collaboration, client presentations, and the art of the pitch. Ashley shares invaluable insights from her journey through major agencies including Martin Agency, Mother New York, and currently Mullen Lowe Los Angeles, where she's worked with brands like GEICO, DoorDash, Old Navy, and Target.
Key Highlights:
- How the Creative Circus transformed Ashley's approach to collaboration by replacing "I" with "We"
- The essential elements of a winning client deck: simplicity, clear hierarchy, and purposeful design
- Bringing personal stories into professional work, including featuring her activist mother in an Old Navy campaign
- Practical tips for creating impactful presentations and mood boards
- Applying creative direction skills to personal projects, including wedding planning
Memorable Quote: "Let's just try it out. I never want to be a person that's already knocking stuff down before we even get to present it. If somebody feels very passionate about an idea and they have a lot of excitement behind it, a lot of love - okay, great. How can I help you better it?"
Connect with Ashley Bozeman:
- Website: https://ashleybozeman.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleycierraa/
Support the Show:
- Follow Host Martine Severin on Instagram: @martineseverin | @thisishowwecreate
- Subscribe to Martine's Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com/
- Visit our Website: https://martineseverin.com/
Credits: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help other creative professionals find our community.
Next Episode: Tune in next week as we continue our conversation with creative professionals who are reshaping the industry.
This week on our Mini Episode of This Is How We Create, we unpack the revolutionary story of Dr. Margaret Burroughs, who transformed her first-floor living room into the DuSable Museum—one of America's most significant institutions of African American history. This episode explores how creating the spaces we need can spark cultural movements that ripple through generations.
In This Episode
-
The power of starting where you are - even if it's your living room
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How Dr. Burroughs built cultural institutions without waiting for permission
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The journey from home museum to Smithsonian-affiliated institution
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Why representation matters in preserving and sharing Black history
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The lasting impact of creating spaces for community art and culture
Key Moments
00:00 - Introduction and setting the scene
-
Welcome to "This Is How We Create"
-
Introduction to Dr. Margaret Burroughs (formerly Victoria Margaret Taylor)
02:30 - Early Years
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Born in Louisiana
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Migration to Chicago
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Marriage to Charles Burroughs in 1949
05:00 - Building Cultural Spaces
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Co-founding the Southside Community Art Center at age 22
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Hosting artists like Langston Hughes
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Eleanor Roosevelt's dedication of the center
08:00 - The Living Room Revolution
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Converting their first floor into a museum in 1961
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Growth into the DuSable Museum
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Current collection of over 13,000 artifacts
Notable Quotes
"I just couldn't see myself standing in front of a group of eager-eyed young Black people and not being able to tell them something very positive about themselves." - Dr. Margaret Burroughs
Resources Mentioned
-
Southside Community Art Center (Still active today)
-
DuSable Museum
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Dr. Burroughs' linocuts and paintings
Episode Takeaways
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Don't wait for perfect conditions - start where you are
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Community spaces can grow from humble beginnings
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Personal spaces can become cultural institutions
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Art and history preservation are acts of revolution
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Creating space for others is a form of legacy building
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
Want to know the real secret to turning your biggest fear into your greatest success?
Today's episode covers the intersection of faith, fear, and artistry. In our conversation, Mojo shared something that stopped me in my tracks – his relationship with heights, a fear he hasn't so much conquered as befriended.
IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN:
- A counterintuitive approach to fear helped Mojo scale buildings (despite his fear of heights!)
- The simple door technique that revolutionized his work-life balance
- Why setting boundaries increases your creative output
- The surprising connection between faith and artistic innovation
- How to know when your fear is pointing you toward your next big breakthrough
🎯 QUICK QUOTES: "The percentage of artists shrinks the higher you go up" - Mojo Reed "Taking a break is a part of work" - Mojo Reed
🔥 RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- The Bear (TV Series)
-
- How to Incorporate Storytelling in Your Artistic Practice - Part 1 - Mojo Reed II
-
- How to Incorporate Storytelling in Your Artistic Practice - Part 2 - Mojo Reed II
CONNECT WITH MOJO: Website: https://gotthemojo.com/bio Instagram: @gotthemojo Commission Art: https://gotthemojo.com/commissions
CONNECT WITH MARTINE: Instagram: @martine.severin Show Instagram: @thisishowwecreate_
ABOUT MOJO REED: Anthony "Mojo" Reed II is a Miami-based artist whose work has captured the attention of major brands like Nike and initiatives led by Michelle Obama. His murals at Wynwood Walls have become cultural landmarks, and his unique approach to storytelling through art has established him as a leading voice in contemporary Black American culture.
ABOUT THIS IS HOW WE CREATE: Join host Martine Severin as she explores the creative journeys of contemporary artists of color, uncovering the hidden stories and strategies behind their success. Produced and edited by Martine Severin.
🎧 New episodes drop every Wednesday! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review.
#CreativeSuccess #ArtistInterview #Creativity #PersonalDevelopment #FearlessBranding #ArtistLife #CreativeBusiness #ThisIsHowWeCreate #MojoReed #MartineSeverin
Did you get value from this episode? Screenshot & share it on Instagram - tag @thisishowwecreate_ and @martine.severin so we can thank you!
In this special mini-episode, we explore the extraordinary legacy of Roy DeCarava (1919-2009), one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century. From the streets of Harlem to the stages where jazz giants performed, DeCarava revolutionized how we see through photography, especially in his groundbreaking representation of Black life and culture. Listen in to hear how you can apply some of his lessons to your own work.
Roy DeCarava
Roy DeCarava Fresh Air NPR
Roy DeCarava Charlie Rose
A Radical Vision: Roy DeCarava’s "The Sweet Flypaper Of Life KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
This week's episode reminds us why authenticity is essential to artistic vision. Martine sits down with Adrian Octavius Walker, a mixed-media artist and photographer whose journey from St. Louis to the Smithsonian will inspire you to think differently about your creative path.
A note from the content team: In this episode, we discuss grief and the loss of a parent.
Episode Highlights
- Collaboration and networking are essential in the creative industry.
- Taking care of oneself physically and mentally is crucial for success.
- Balancing work and family requires prioritization and setting boundaries.
- Music can be a powerful source of inspiration and motivation for artists.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Adrian Octavius Walker
03:02 Childhood and Early Influences
05:56 Navigating Grief and Loss
09:13 The Role of Photography in Healing
12:04 Transitioning to College and Career
14:57 The Journey of a Mixed Media Artist
17:46 Touring with Lupe Fiasco
21:09 Becoming a Photo Editor and Beyond
24:56 The Journey Begins: From Editing App to Career
29:20 Building a Community: The Power of Connections
34:37 Artistic Growth: Discovering My Voice
39:41 Collaboration and Self-Care: Balancing Life and Art
46:27 Advice to My Younger Self: Financial Wisdom and Mental Health
48:50 The Role of Music: A Creative Lifeline
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QUOTABLE GEMS: "I wouldn't necessarily say I'm giving up anything. What I am doing is giving in and giving grace to life itself." - Adrian Walker
-
CREATOR'S TOOLKIT: Adrian shares his secret weapon for staying creative and centered: music! Stay tuned for his curated playlist dropping soon.
-
REAL TALK MOMENT: When Adrian talks about scheduling his long runs before family time [42:30], he drops some serious wisdom about how to show up for your art AND your family. This conversation is a must-listen for any creator trying to balance it all.
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MARTINE'S TAKEAWAY: "What struck me most about Adrian's journey is how he's turned every experience – even the painful ones – into fuel for his artistic vision. His work reminds us that there's beauty everywhere, even in unexpected places."
-
JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What resonated most with you from Adrian's story? Share your thoughts with us using #ThisIsHowWeCreate
-
Photography #ArtistJourney #CreativeLife #MixedMediaArt #ThisIsHowWeCreate
- PS: Like what you heard? Share this episode with a fellow creator who needs to hear it! 🎨✨
Get to know Adrian Octavius Walker
Website: Adrian Octavius Walker
Follow on Instagram: Adrian
Support the Show
Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
- Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
- Leave a review
- Follow us on social media
- Share with fellow creatives
Tags
#Photography #MixedMediaArt #BlackCreativity #Storytelling #ArtisticJourney #CreativeEntrepreneur #VSCO #WorkLifeBalance #MusicInspiration #Collaboration #FreelanceLife #ArtistInterview #BlackArtists #VisualStorytelling #CreativeProcess
This episode unpacks a powerful truth about creativity: your path isn't linear, and that's exactly how it should be. Host Martine Severin breaks down how three groundbreaking artists navigated multiple streams of life while building their creative practice.
Elizabeth Catlett: Merged modernist training with accessibility
Charles White: Combined Chicago labor movement work with mastering his craft
Mary Sully: Dakota artist who challenged Western conventions
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creative Journeys
01:52 Exploring the Lives of Influential Artists
06:11 The Importance of Technical Skills and Commitment
08:09 Conclusion and Call to Action
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
In this episode, photographer and U.S. Army veteran Chris Charles shares his remarkable journey from military service to creative entrepreneurship. His story is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and the unexpected ways our past experiences shape our future success.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
- How military discipline can transform your creative business
- The power of systems and automation in preventing burnout
- Why diversifying income streams is crucial for creative entrepreneurs
- The importance of establishing clear boundaries and rest days
- How to transition from service provider to strategic business owner
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- Acuity Scheduling
- Square Payment Systems
- Model Mayhem
- Flickr
Episode Timeline 00:00 Introduction to Chris Charles' Journey 02:55 From Military to Creative Entrepreneur 06:10 Childhood Influences and Early Artistic Exposure 08:48 Transitioning from Military to Photography 11:45 Experiences as a Paratrooper 14:58 Rediscovering Photography in Iraq 17:53 Building a Creative Career 20:54 The Role of Education in Chris' Career 24:04 Combining Graphic Design and Photography 27:08 Military Precision in Creative Business 28:59 Establishing a Seamless Booking Process 34:29 Navigating Burnout and Work-Life Balance 39:30 The Importance of Delegation and Support 45:00 Rethinking Business Models and Income Streams
Connect With Chris Website: Chris Charles
Follow on Instagram: Chris Charles
Support the Show Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
"Trust Your Art in Troubled Times" - When democracy makes you uncertain, should you create or doom-scroll?
Host Martine Severin draws wisdom from Black artists who've turned constitutional tension into enduring work - from Baldwin to Amy Sherald.
Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success.
#CreativeStrategy #ArtistsOfColor #CreativeBusiness #PersonalDevelopment
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
Want to hear an honest conversation about what it really takes to build a creative career while staying true to your roots? Today's guest, Kieron Lewis, shares his remarkable journey from a kid in South London to becoming one of the most sought-after editorial designers in publishing. His story will inspire you to embrace change, trust your instincts, and build success on your own terms.
You'll learn:
- Why listening to your gut (and your mom!) might lead to your true calling
- The REAL breakdown of freelance life: 85% business, 15% creativity
- How becoming a parent transformed Kieron's approach to work and success
- A powerful framework for handling client feedback with confidence
- The unexpected way Kieron uses humor to build stronger professional relationships
During the pandemic, while planning a wedding AND buying a house, Kieron took the leap into freelancing. That same week, he landed two major opportunities: a publication with HarperCollins and a hosting role with Adobe. Sometimes the universe has your back when you trust your instincts!
Think you need to have it all figured out? Kieron's story proves that embracing the unknown – whether in your career or as a new parent – can be surprisingly liberating. It's not about controlling everything; it's about being open to where life takes you.
✍️ The Culture Code by Clotaire Rapaille - Game-changing insights on cross-cultural communication 🎨 Strategic project organization tips that will save your sanity 💪 The confidence to say no to weekend work when family time matters more.
Success isn't about having everything perfectly planned – it's about being brave enough to pivot when something doesn't feel right, and confident enough to bring your authentic self to every opportunity.
In This EpisodeEpisode Timeline
[00:00] - Introduction and show premise
[01:49] - Growing up in Brixton and early creative influences
[04:02] - Educational journey and transition to graphic design
[06:20] - First job experience in advertising
[08:43] - "Still Breathing" book project with HarperCollins
[13:21] - Teaching experience and freelance insights
[20:24] - Advanced freelancing strategies
[25:05] - Tools of the trade and Adobe expertise
[27:29] - Balancing parenthood and creative work
[31:59] - Personal life and creative inspiration
Connect With Kieron
Website: Kieron Lewis
Follow on Instagram: Kieron
Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
In this episode, host Martine Severin shares her proven 10-year framework for creative reflection that treats your artistic journey with the gentleness it deserves.
Through the lens of "creative archaeology," discover how to uncover patterns, celebrate progress, and set meaningful intentions for your creative practice. This episode is part 3 of our three-part series on reflections and gaining clarity.
Quick Links
📋 Download the Companion Workbook 📮 Subscribe to Creative Matters Newsletter 🎧 Listen to Part 2 (Episode 104) 🎧 Listen to Related Episodes (102) Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Reflection and Goal Setting
01:32 The Gentle Art of Looking Back
02:27 Creative Archaeology: Digging into Your Year
05:14 The Three Crossings: Mapping Your Journey
08:52 Money and Meaning in Creative Practice
11:57 Final Thoughts and Creative Commitments
Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success.
#CreativeStrategy #ArtistsOfColor #CreativeBusiness #PersonalDevelopment
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
We sit down with Alex Cabal, a Los Angeles-based illustrator whose vibrant work celebrates cultural identity and diverse representation. From movie posters to YA book covers, Alex shares her journey of finding authentic artistic expression and building a sustainable creative career.
Episode Highlights
Growing up in a strict household and using art as an escape
Transition from movie poster concept artist to independent illustrator
How embracing Filipino heritage transformed her artistic practice
The journey of overcoming colorism and celebrating darker skin tones
Building a successful illustration career without traditional networking
Managing multiple income streams as a creative professional
Chapters
00:00 Finding Artistic Voice
03:06 Journey of Self-Discovery
12:06 Breaking Free from Constraints
20:40 Embracing Cultural Heritage
30:16 The Art of Portrait Illustration
37:27 Navigating Income Streams
Key Insights for Illustrators
Create work that's true to your voice, even if it doesn't fit current trends
Don't underestimate the power of online platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, Behance)
Consider multiple revenue streams: client work, art markets, online shops
Build strong foundational skills in traditional art techniques
Know when to ask for help and build a support system
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:
https://www.alex-cabal.com/
Instagram @acaballz
Support the Show
Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
Latest Episode: Building Bridges to Your Future Creative Self (Part 2 of 3) Transform your creative practice through this theatrical three-act exploration.
Using insights from "Wicked" and conversations with seasoned artists, learn to identify and bridge the gaps holding you back. This episode offers gentle yet practical guidance for your creative journey.
Chapters
00:00 New Beginnings: Podcast Updates and Series Introduction
03:05 Act One: The Mirror Moment
10:55 Act Three: Minding the Gap
FREE RESOURCE: Download our companion workbook to guide your transformation.
Perfect for: Artists, writers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to deepen their creative practice while building sustainable success.
New episodes drop every Wednesday and Thursday. Follow now to join our creative community!
#CreativeStrategy #ArtistsOfColor #CreativeBusiness #PersonalDevelopment
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
How do you make a living as an artist while building long-term financial security?
Today we're talking with James Hoston, a painter and educator who's taken an unconventional approach to the traditionally unpredictable world of fine art.
After working in Jeff Koons' studio and teaching at prestigious institutions, Hoston is charting a path to become his own artistic benefactor through a surprising combination of methods.
His story challenges the 'starving artist' stereotype and offers practical insights into sustaining a creative career for the long haul.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Creative Life of Artists of Color
02:09 Navigating the Art World: Insights from Jim Hoston
08:08 Diversifying Income Streams as an Artist
11:06 Becoming Your Own Benefactor: Financial Strategies for Artists
20:47 The Journey of an Artist: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Voice
30:03 The Philosophy of Art: Influences and Inspirations
32:59 Artistic Philosophy and Mantras
36:19 Color Theory and Palette Choices
40:05 The Evolution of Painting Techniques
42:02 Experiences in Paris and Art Appreciation
45:21 Building Wealth and Financial Freedom
49:03 Life Lessons from Farm Life
52:18 Quality Over Quantity in Art
56:02 Ambition and the Artist's Journey
01:00:53 Monetizing Art and Future Aspirations
Learn more about Jim Hoston: Website
Website: Martine Severin
Follow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We Create
Subscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
In this episode of 'This Is How We Create', Martine Severin reflects on the creative lives of contemporary artists of color, emphasizing the importance of planning and self-reflection as the new year approaches. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey, the significance of understanding one's purpose, and the need for deep self-exploration to bridge the gap between who you are and who you aspire to be. The conversation encourages you to think beyond mere resolutions and focus on the stories you choose to live.
This post originally appeared in our Newsletter Creative Matters under the title: The Why Within: A Story of Post-its, Purpose, and the Paths We Choose
Raw truth about survival, ambition, and why your 2024 goals are worth revisiting.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creative Life
02:55 End of Year Reflections and Planning
06:10 The Importance of Purpose and Goals
12:06 Deep Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
18:00 Living with Intention and Clarity
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: Martine SeverinFollow on Instagram: Martine | This Is How We CreateSubscribe to the Newsletter: Martine’s Substack
This episode has been produced and edited by Martine Severin.
In cased you missed it, we're replaying our most popular episode of 2024 with Candace Tavares.
Candace joins us to talk about how can you unleash your creativity and defy limitations.
Candice embraces the rich textures of wood to create powerful works that celebrate Black beauty and shatter negative stereotypes. Her art is a warm embrace, reminding viewers of their inherent value and strength.
Tune in for a dose of inspiration! ✨
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Candice’s work: https://www.noellerx.com/
See Candice’s work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noellerx
Welcome to our 100th Episode! Cue the confetti! Thank you for being part of our community.
In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Andrea Pippins—illustrator, author, and creative powerhouse—as she shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery, growth, and artistic transformation. Andrea opens up about the defining moments that shaped her career and creative voice from her early influences to her bold decision to move to Sweden.
Through candid reflections and actionable advice, Andrea explores the challenges and rewards of building a freelance business abroad, navigating cultural differences, and staying connected in a virtual world. Whether you're a seasoned creative or just starting out, Andrea’s will story inspire you to embrace curiosity, prioritize your goals, and create with intention.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:
- How curiosity fuels creativity and opens doors to unexpected opportunities.
- Why networking and mentorship are key to professional and personal growth.
- The importance of adapting to cultural differences when building connections in a new country.
- Tips for staying productive and setting meaningful goals in your creative practice.
- How Andrea balances freelancing with motherhood while living abroad.
- The value of keeping a physical idea book to track and organize your projects.
- Insights into financial transparency, including how Andrea shares her income breakdown.
- Why travel and cultural immersion are essential for expanding artistic perspectives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Creative Journey
04:57 Andrea Pippins: A Life in Art
19:06 Cultural Transition and Community Building
30:38 From Corporate to Freelance: A Transformative Leap
44:06 Navigating Income and Financial Transparency
48:16 Advice for Aspiring Artists
Get to know Andrea Pippins: https://www.andreapippins.com/aboutFollow Andrea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapippins/
Get to know Martine Severin
Website: https://martineseverin.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Follow This Is How We Create: https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Book Mentioned: Building a Second Brain by Tiago Forte
Income pie: Lola Akinmade https://www.instagram.com/lolaakinmade/?hl=en
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
- How to Trust Your Creative Evolution: Holly McWhorter on Moving Between Art Forms
In this conversation, Holly McWhorter shares her journey as an artist, writer, and entrepreneur, discussing her childhood influences, her experiences living between Copenhagen and Brooklyn, and her transition from running a skincare business to rediscovering her passion for painting during the pandemic. She reflects on her creative process, the importance of color theory, and offers advice to her younger self about focusing on her passions without spreading herself too thin.
GET TO KNOW HOLLY:
Website: https://hollymcwhorterart.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollymcwhorterart
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:Website: martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severinFollow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack
CREDITS:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
On today's episode, we sit down with Sherrod Faulks, founder of Deep Black Ceramics. From tech screens to pottery wheels, Faulks shares his remarkable transition from UX design to establishing his ceramics brand. We explore how authenticity shapes his creative process, from custom glaze formulation to collection development.
Faulks discusses finding creative courage through his partner's support and how his background in user experience informs his artistic vision. Through our conversation, he reveals how each ceramic piece becomes part of a larger narrative, creating distinct eras within his work.
Join us for an intimate look at reinvention, artistic integrity, and the transformative power of following your passion.
Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
Key Takeaways:
- Authenticity is the secret to standing out in a crowded creative landscape.
- Centering oneself is crucial for producing your best, most meaningful work.
- Building a cohesive brand identity and infusing personal emotions into your creations can leave a lasting impact.
- Embrace your unique vision and don’t be afraid to be bold and take creative risks.
- Conceptualizing collections and eras can be powerful for creative projects.
- Create work that brings joy and pleasure to yourself and others.
- Understand the deeper "why" behind your creations to align with your values.
- Custom design and formulate glazes to produce unique, beautiful pieces.
- Discover your passion and create meaningful work that reflects who you are.
Chapters:
- 00:00 Introduction to Sherrod Faulks and His Journey
- 04:45 The Influence of Cooking on Sherrod's Life
- 10:20 The Evolution of Slice and Tort
- 13:11 The Birth of Deep Black
- 16:59 The Connection Between Clay and Self-Discovery
- 21:45 Creating a Centered Environment for Creativity
- 25:01 The Art of Collections in Clay
- 32:37 Finding Authenticity and Inspiration
- 39:14 Designing with Purpose and Emotion
- 45:51 Future Endeavors and Creative Visibility
- 52:47 - Conclusion and Sherrod's Parting Thoughts
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:Discover more of Sherrod Faulk’s work: deepblack.shopShop Deep Black: https://deepblack.shop/
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:Website: martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severinFollow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack
CREDITS:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
If you’ve ever considered dipping your toes into a creative field, tune in to hear the journey of Ayanah George, a digital and film photographer who masterfully bridges the worlds of engineering and photography.
From mastering double exposure techniques to embracing the beautiful imperfections of film photography, she shares intimate insights into her creative evolution. Ayanah discusses how she built a thriving side business while staying true to her artistic voice.
This episode offers a glimpse into how technical precision and artistic vision can merge to create something extraordinary while highlighting the transformative power of self-belief in pursuing creative passions.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- How Ayanah transitioned from engineering to photography while juggling her day job.
- The inspiration she draws from Kehinde Wiley’s powerful depictions of people of color.
- Techniques for experimenting with double exposure and the minimal editing required for film photography.
- The evolution of her photography style and how she captures intentional and elevated portraits.
- The importance of self-confidence and exposure to art in fueling creative growth.
- Ayanah’s approach to travel photography, selling prints, and exploring new opportunities for assignments.
- The value of community, collaboration, and continuous learning in the creative field.
Episode Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction to Ayanna George's Creative Journey
- 01:53 Early Influences and Exposure to Photography
- 04:12 Building a Photography Career While Balancing Engineering
- 08:27 Developing a Personal Style in Portraiture
- 11:48 Travel Photography: Capturing the Essence of Places
- 17:11 Transitioning from Weddings to Portraits
- 19:05 Inspiration from Kehinde Wiley and Double Exposure Techniques
- 23:48 Evolving Style and Intentionality in Photography
- 27:09 Confidence and Creative Growth
- 28:35 Conclusion and Future Aspirations
Stay Connected with Our Guest: 🔗 Follow Ayanah George on Instagram: @ayanahgeorge
Keep Up With Martine:
Website:martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severin
Follow This Is How We Create: @thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Credits:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
In this episode of This Is How We Create, we sit down with the talented photographer Kelly Marshall to explore the journey of turning passion into purpose.
Throughout our conversation, Kelly emphasizes the power of building strong networks and lifting up other creatives, especially within the Black community. She reveals practical strategies for balancing personal projects with commercial work, managing client expectations, and creating multiple income streams.
But it’s not all about business—Kelly opens up about the importance of prioritizing self-care, taking risks, and believing in yourself to navigate the highs and lows of a creative career.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
- Why cultivating a strong network is crucial for creatives, particularly artists of color.
- How can you bring your personal passions into your commercial work for a fulfilling career
- Strategies for setting boundaries, managing client expectations, and maintaining your well-being.
- The value of supporting fellow creatives and how referrals can open new doors.
- Why taking risks and betting on yourself can lead to unexpected opportunities.
CHAPTERS
- 00:00 Introduction to Kelly Marshall's Creative Journey
- 02:50 Growing Up Mixed-Race in Philadelphia
- 06:07 The Impact of Racial Identity on Art
- 09:04 Exploring 'Birthing of a Nation' Project
- 11:57 The Evolution of Kelly's Photography Career
- 14:53 Navigating the Commercial Photography Landscape
- 18:12 Building a Supportive Network in New York
- 21:06 Finding Your Unique Style in Photography
- 24:04 Balancing Client Expectations and Creative Vision
- 27:04 Financial Insights and Revenue Streams
- 29:56 Advice for Young Creatives
- 32:46 Final Thoughts and Reflections
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:Discover more of Kelly Marshall’s work :sans.mursExplore Kelly’s portfolio: https://www.kellymarshallphoto.com/
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:Website: martineseverin.comInstagram: @martine.severinFollow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- Kelly's documentary BIRTH
CREDITS:This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
In this soul-stirring episode, Sheffield-based artist Rashna Hackett shares her extraordinary journey from a 35-year career in psychiatric nursing to discovering her calling as an artist at age 50.
Born in Tanzania with memories of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Indian Ocean, Rashna reveals how art became her sanctuary during a period of workplace bullying and depression.
Through her uniquely intuitive approach to large-scale abstract paintings and her joyfully chaotic studio practice, she explores themes of mixed-race identity, cultural heritage, and creative liberation. A testament to the healing power of art and the fact that it's never too late to discover your passion.
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:
- How childhood experiences shape an artist’s unique style and voice.
- The beauty of intuitive painting and the unexpected discoveries it can spark.
- Strategies for marketing your art and leveraging social media for visibility.
- The power of embracing chaos and accidents in the studio for creative breakthroughs.
- Why art is more than just a craft—it's a journey of self-discovery and joy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rashna Hackett
00:54 Childhood Influences and Early Memories
04:15 The Journey to Painting
10:03 Artistic Process and Intuition
14:59 Exploring Identity Through Art
19:49 Marketing and Selling Art
24:11 Future Projects and Exciting Ventures
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:
Get to know Rashna Hackett: rashnahackettExplore Rashna’s portfolio: https://www.artbyrashna.com/about
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website: martineseverin.com
Instagram: @martine.severin
Follow This Is How We Create: thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to our Newsletter: Martine's Substack
CREDITS: This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona. Episode research by Braila West.
Have you ever considered using Augmented Reality in your work? Meet creator, writer, and Augmented Reality developer Steven Christian as he shares his journey from a love for cartoons and video games.
Steven shares how he came to find Iltopia Studios, where he blends storytelling with cutting-edge augmented reality (AR). He recounts how a pivotal Adobe Max conference ignited his interest in using AR to create immersive tech-forward experiences.
During our time together, Steven discusses his productivity strategies, including the Pomodoro Technique, and emphasizes the importance of resourcefulness and self-motivation in the creative industry. With a unique approach to being a generalist, he talks about navigating the diverse AR landscape and shaping his career by staying adaptable and curious.
IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN:
-
How to turn a passion for cartoons and video games into a career in animation and AR
-
Tips on starting a creative business and building an impactful portfolio
-
How the Pomodoro Technique can improve focus and overcome creative blocks
-
The advantages of being a generalist in the tech-creative field
-
Tools and resources for anyone interested in learning AR, from YouTube tutorials to Unity and Skillshare
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:
Explore Iltopia Studios: https://iltopiastudios.com/
Follow Steven on Instagram: stuckonaneyelnd
View more of Stevens work: https://stuckonaneyeland.com/projects
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE:
Website:https://martineseverin.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Follow This Is How We Create: https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_
Subscribe to Our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
-
Adobe Max Conference
-
Unity Learn
-
Skillshare and Udemy for AR tutorials
CREDITS:
This Is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Join us for a transformative conversation with multidisciplinary artist Malene Barnett, who shares her evolution from commercial textile designer to ceramicist, researcher, and cultural preservationist.
In this episode, Barnett reveals how embracing her authentic artistic voice led to founding the Black Artists and Designers Guild (BADG), securing a Fulbright grant to research African-Caribbean pottery traditions, and authoring Crafted Kinship, a groundbreaking book featuring 60+ makers across the diaspora.
Through personal anecdotes and practical wisdom, she offers invaluable insights on building a sustainable creative practice while honoring cultural heritage.
IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN:
- How to transition from commercial design to fine art while maintaining financial stability
- Why rest is a non-negotiable part of the creative process, not a reward
- The importance of building multiple income streams through licensing and collaboration
- How to use research to deepen your artistic practice and cultural connections
- Strategic approaches to property ownership and financial planning for artists
- The power of documenting and preserving cultural traditions through art
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Get to know Malene Barnett: https://www.malenebarnett.com/ Follow Malene on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malene.barnett/ Pre-order "Crafted Kinship" (Coming October 29, 2024)
KEEP UP WITH MARTINE: Website: https://martineseverin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/ Follow This Is How We Create: https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/ Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- Black Artists and Designers Guild (BADG)
- Ruggable Collection by Malene Barnett
- Tyler School of Art and Architecture
- Fulbright Research Grant
- Hambidge Residency
CREDITS: This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin Episode research was conducted by Braila West
In this soul-stirring episode of This Is How We Create, Townsend takes us behind the lens, sharing how she went from shooting personal projects in Chicago to commanding commercial sets – all while staying true to her roots. Through her surrealist-inspired imagery, Akilah isn't just making pictures; she's rewriting narratives and reclaiming Black stories.
"Photography is my form of resistance," Townsend says. Through her work, she crafts visual love letters to Black culture that challenge mainstream perspectives and celebrate authentic experiences. Whether you're a budding photographer or simply dream of turning your side hustle into your main stage, this conversation will inspire you to pick up that camera and tell BIPOC stories, your way.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Akilah :https://www.killls.com/contact
Akilah’s Instagram: killls
Book Akilah: https://www.killls.com/contact
Some people wait to be chosen, hired, or validated. But others don't wait. They make their own path with determination. They use different tools, like guerrilla marketing, to get noticed. Dr. Fahamu Pecou is one of those people. Today on the podcast, you'll hear his inspiring journey from dreams of working as an animator to becoming an award-winning artist.
Dr. Pecou studied painting, when he secured a job as a graphic designer, his artistic career changed course. In our talk, Dr Pecou shares how his hip-hop influenced his work and how his work came to challenge societal views of Black identity and more specifically, Black masculinity.
Graphic design student Ruby Lee reflects on her creative journey from childhood influences to balancing personal style with commercial design. She shares her dream of creating experiential events, the importance of mentorship, and how tackling untold stories fuel her creativity.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Ruby: https://rubyleeroobin.com/contact/
Ruby’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roobindog/#
Work with Ruby: https://rubyleeroobin.com/contact/
Join us for an exclusive conversation with Byron Risdon, the interior design sensation taking the industry by storm. In this episode, Byron pulls back the curtain on his remarkable journey:
- From childhood dreams to design stardom: Discover the roots of Byron's passion
- Crafting a signature style: Learn how he developed his unique aesthetic
- Client whisperer: Uncover Byron's foolproof formula for decoding client desires
- Pushing boundaries: Why calculated risks are the secret sauce in Byron's designs
- The 'wow' factor: Get a glimpse into Byron's innovative techniques for leaving clients speechless
Don't miss this inspiring deep dive into the mind of one of today's most exciting interior designers.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Byron: https://www.byronrisdon.com/about
Byrons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byronrisdon#
Book Byron: https://www.byronrisdon.com/how-we-work
In this episode of This Is How We Create, multidisciplinary artist Courtney Minor reveals how her emotions fuel her artistic process. From reigniting her creative spark in Vietnam to using art as therapy, Courtney also shares practical tips on how to market your artwork, how to use unconventional materials in your creative work and how to find your target collectors.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Courtney: https://thecmdstudio.com/pages/copy-of-about-courtney-minor
Courtney’s Instagram: heyitscourtneyminor
Buy Courtney’s Art: https://thecmdstudio.com/collections
In our latest episode of 'This is How We Create,' we dive deep into the world of Joshua Leonard, the creator of Team Supreme. From his early days as a military kid sketching Garfield to pitching groundbreaking inclusive animated series to major networks, Joshua's journey is as inspiring as it is instructive.
This episode unpacks:
- The impact of diverse life experiences on creativity
- How to create authentic, inclusive characters
- The realities of pitching diverse content to major studios
- Balancing a day job with creative pursuits
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Joshua: https://www.leonardstudios.com/about
Joshua's Instagram: imjoshualeonard
Buy Leonards merch: https://www.leonardstudios.com/shop
Art director and graphic designer Kendell Burton shares his creative journey, from early influences to building a career at VaynerMedia—Discover the key questions to ask yourself to communicate better with your audience. Hear Kendell’s habits for success and his insights on fostering meaningful connections. Finally, if you love the horror film genre, stay for recommendations from Kendell’s podcast, TerrorNova.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Kendell: https://www.kendellburton.com/about/
Kendell’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekendellb/
Work with Kendell: https://www.kendellburton.com/contact/
Listen to Kendell’s podcast: Terror Nova
Welcome back. On today's episode, theater producer, photographer and model, Chandra Lynch chats with us about how she turned her childhood passion for arts into a thriving production company.
Dive into her world of emotion-driven creativity, from photography to theater. Learn the power of meditation in art and gain insider tips on pricing and branding your work.
Chandra also shares her journey of mastering production skills while battling perfectionism.
Get ready for a dose of inspiration, practical advice, and life-changing book recommendations. This episode is your backstage pass to turning artistic dreams into reality.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Chandra: https://www.ankhproductions.org/welcome2
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ankhproductions
Book with Chandra: https://linkin.bio/ankhproductions/
Calling all creatives and aspiring illustrators! Tune in to hear the incredible journey of Morgan Bissant, a New Orleans artist who's turning her childhood passion into a thriving career.
Discover:
• How Morgan's early love for cartoons blossomed into a full-fledged illustration and graphic design career
• The power of education in honing your craft (psst... Morgan's got a degree in illustration and graphic design!)
• Why representation matters and how Morgan's bringing diversity to life through her characters
• The secret sauce behind reimagining beloved anime and cartoons with cultural flair
• Morgan's latest triumph: illustrating 'The Epic Ellisons'
Whether you dream of illustrating your children's book or looking to infuse more diversity into your art, Morgan's story will leave you feeling fired up and ready to create.
Morgan reminds us that passion + persistence + purpose = unstoppable success.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com
Get in touch with Morgan Bissant
https://www.morganbissant.com/
https://www.instagram.com/morg_city/
Happily Ever After Fairy Tales for Every Child
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
In this episode of This Is How We Create, Anastassia Whitty, a talented creative, shares her journey from discovering photography to developing her own unique, cinematic style. Stassi shares how she captures raw emotions in her photography. She discusses the challenges of freelancing and offers advice on staying true to oneself in a creative career.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saywordstaz/#
View Staz’s Photos: https://saywordstaz.wixsite.com/saywordstazimages
Book with Staz: https://saywordstaz.wixsite.com/saywordstazimages/contact
Other content by Staz:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrl8XNACwG7qMRuaCcFF92w?view_as=subscriber
We’ve all had some interactions with websites that were simple, easy to use and sometimes even fun. On the flipside, we’ve all visited websites that made things hard to read, hard to find, or even tabs that were frustratingly hard to reach. Elsa Amri, founder of AM Design Studio, managed to craft a creative career in which she lives in her Zone of Genius.
In this episode, Elsa shares her journey into Webflow design and the impact of design on user experiences. As she breaks down what the design industry is like for her, she also highlights the power of saying "yes" to new opportunities, and always striving for personal growth. Tune in to explore her path and hear future plans with us.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Elsa: https://www.elsaamri.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elsaedwardamri/#
Work with Elsa: https://www.elsaamri.com/contact
If you’ve ever wanted to start a podcast and want tips on how to interview your guests, tune in! In this episode, our show host Martine Severin shares her journey of becoming a better interviewer on her podcast.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Subscribe to our Substack Newsletter: https://martineseverin.substack.com/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
How great is it to receive life-changing advice when you need it the most.?
On today’s episode, we invite three guests to share the advice they wish they could have given to their younger selves.
Jasmine Guillory, a writer, shares advice for aspiring writers.
Amanda J. Cain, a photographer, talks about the value of mentorship.
Dorian Sylvain, a muralist and activist, challenges us to rethink how we challenge ourselves as artists.
Tune in to Jasmine Guillory’s episode 50.
Tune in to Amanda J Cain’s episode 70.
Tune in to Dorian Sylvain’s episode 77.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Show Notes: How can you cultivate an artistic practice that allows you to create from a place of wonder? Join us on "This Is How We Create" as Dana Robinson shares her how she balances a career in graphic design and how she nurtures her creativity through her growing body of collage work. What’s more, Dana walks us through her creative routines, and shares the importance of creating space for curiosity and play in your creative process
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alphabet_party/
View Dana's art: https://danarobinsonstudio.com/
What does it look like to be passionate about preserving and healing Black and Indigenous communities? On this week's episode we sit down with documentary adventure photographer, filmmaker, and conservationist, Chad Brown.
Join us as Chad shares the story of how he transitioned from the Navy, to creative director and founder of two non-profit organizations.
Chad also helps us discover the healing power of nature and the importance of documenting BIPOC communities in the outdoors. If you've ever wondered how to protect your creative headspace, Chad shares the elements of creative survival.
Trigger Warning: As Chad shares his story with us, he touches on the hard parts of his journey as well. Some of these moments do include depression and suicidal thoughts. If you are uncomfortable hearing about these topics in detail, please do skip this episode.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Chad: https://chadocreative.com/about/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_chadbrown_
Book a photoshoot with Chad: https://chadocreative.com/photography/
Have you ever thought about working with communities to create public art? Artist Dorian Sylvain shares her journey from working as a set designer in the theater to her transition as a muralist. Hear how Dorian emphasizes community engagement and inclusivity in her work. Stay to find out the significance color and patterns play in her work.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Dorian: https://doriansylvain.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doriansylvain
Show Notes:
In this solo episode, our host Martine Severin shares five lessons she has learned since starting the podcast. The lessons include the importance of listening to your own voice and following your intuition, the concept that discipline is freedom, understanding the cost of creation, the idea of starting before you're ready, and tips for reducing filler words in conversations.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
If you ever wondered what it takes to write a gripping and engaging story, this episode with writer, Sherry Thomas is the one for you. Sherry’s personal story starts from being a stay-at-home mom to best- selling author. In this episode of “This Is How We Create” Sherry shares her writing and editing process as well as how she created the Lady Sherlock book series.
Sherry’s newest book, A Ruse Of Shadows, was released on June 25th, 2024.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Sherry: https://www.ladysherlockbooks.com/about/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/writersherrythomas/
Buy Sherry’s books: https://www.sherrythomas.com/bookshelf.php
In Part 2 of our conversation with Mojo Reed, contemporary artist Mojo Reed, II explains how creativity formed a path to healing when the worst happened to him as a child.
Mojo guides us through how to make work that is meaningful to you and through the key questions to ask the client before taking on a job. Don't forget to listen to Part 1 of our conversation with Mojo in episode 73.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Mojo: https://gotthemojo.com/bio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotthemojo/
Buy Mojo’s Art: https://gotthemojo.com/commissions
Have you ever wondered how muralists conceptualize and create large murals? In addition to answering this question, contemporary artist Mojo Reed, II explains how creativity formed a path to healing when the worst happened to him as a child.
Mojo guides us through how to choose the right art school, how to negotiate art contracts and much more.
Tune in to hear Mojo tell us about the power of storytelling in his murals, the importance of faith, and how he manages self-care. Don't forget to listen to Part 2 of our conversation with Mojo.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Mojo: https://gotthemojo.com/bio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotthemojo/
Buy Mojo’s Art: https://gotthemojo.com/commissions
Have you ever wanted to be a sports photographer for the NBA or for the NHL? Join us as Amanda J. Cain, team photographer for the Detroit Pistons, shares her inspiring journey to redefining visual storytelling.
Amanda shares tips on which equipment she uses to capture her signature shots and expands on how to develop your artistic voice. Whether or not you’re into sports, this episode is perfect for sharpening your photography skills and honing in on your niche.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Amanda: https://amandajcain.photoshelter.com/about
Amanda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandajcain/
View Amanda's Art: https://amandajcain.photoshelter.com/index
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
We’re often told to be original. We’re told to create work that no one else has ever created. In a world where information travels fast, where thoughts and ideas are generated by AI, where people create echoes of what someone else has done, what is originality?
In this episode of This Is How We Create, multimedia artist Stephanie J. Woods shares her unique approach to creating original collaborative visual art. Stephanie shares how she brings together sounds, poems, images, and sculptures to tell the stories from her life experiences.
Tune in to hear Stephanie's philosophy to remain creating meaningful work.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Stephanie: https://www.stephaniejwoods.com/about-cv
Instagram: stephaniej.woods
Show Notes: Have you thought about how you may include activism in your work? On today’s episode, painter Genevieve Ramos shares her journey as a disability advocate and surrealist artist.
We explore Genevieve’s early artistic exposure, her creative process, and delve into how she came to use surrealism in her work. Lastly, Genevieve opens up about managing pain and her mental health after tragedy.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Genevieve: https://genevieveramos.art/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genevieveramos.art/#
Buy Gevevieve’s Art: https://genevieveramos.art/contact
In this solo episode, host Martine Severin shares with us the power of the "Micro Sprint" - a 72-hour framework to kickstart your productivity and gain career momentum.
If you are struggling with inertia and can’t seem to finish the projects you know will spark your career, turns out that dedicating a specific timeframe to complete your work can supercharge your projects as an artist, entrepreneur, or professional.
Blocking off just 3 days can unlock incredible achievements and growth opportunities you've been putting off.
Listen now to learn:
- What a 72-hour micro sprint is and why it works
- How to prepare and set yourself up for a productive sprint
- Tips for staying motivated and avoiding burnout
- Examples of what you can realistically accomplish in 72 hours
- And more strategies to finally get things done!
Whether you're an artist needing motivation and inspiration, or a professional aiming for that next promotion - don't miss these micro sprint secrets! Hit play and learn how 72 hours can change your life.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Download the Micro-Sprint Worksheet: https://bit.ly/3yFWd59
This episode of This How We Create is written, produced, and edited by Martine Severin.
Is it possible to create art works that earns you well? Kamar Thomas, a passionate fine art painter and professor, joins us to speak about how to earn a living through your creative work. Kamar knows the ins and outs of moving beyond the myth of the struggling artist.
Tune in to hear the secrets to making a living as a creative and stay to learn how to create impactful work that resonates with your audience.
Don’t forget to check out Kamar’s book, The Artist's Creative Vision: How to Create Art that Makes Change and Earns a Living.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Kamar : https://kamarthomas.com/who-is-kamar#/about/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohkamar/#
Buy Kamar’s Art/Book : https://kamarthomas.com/book / https://kamarthomas.com/store
Show Notes: Have you ever thought about making your own artistic prints? Visual artist, Katrina Andry, shares her journey from growing up in New Orleans to discovering the world of printmaking. Katrina answers how to stand out as an artist and how to create work that resonates with the soul. If you’ve ever struggled or thought about how to weave symbolism in your work, this episode is for you.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Katrina: https://www.katrina-andry.com/about
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k_andry/#
Buy Katrina’s Art: https://www.katrina-andry.com/get-in-touch
If you've ever been interested in filmmaking, you will love learning how writer and filmmaker Téa Lynor brings her scripts to life. Téa writes vibrant narratives that spring from her values and personal life.
In this episode, Téa shares her insights on how to make ethical films, how to prioritize diversity in your work and how to build well-developed characters in the next story you're writing.
Lastly, don't forget to check out her award-winning film, The Graveyard Shift: https://youtu.be/EDR5JTerVk8?si=MtZA1Xu2Fei-7kcs
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG.
https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Téa : https://tealynor.wixsite.com/tealynor/about
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/teatay04
Watch Téa’s Films :https://tealynor.wixsite.com/tealynor/films
Have you ever thought about building a creative business? Sit in to hear how guest Carmelle Kendall, is a creative director, illustrator, and co-founded the stationery brand Neighborly Paper.
Carmelle and her business partner swiftly grew Neighborly Paper in a 100+ stores. Listening to hear how Carmelle is living her creative life. 🔥✨
Our younger creators can enjoy Carmelle's illustrations in the book Your Freedom, Your Power: A Kid’s Guide to the First Amendment by Authors Allison Matulli and Clelia Castro-Malaspina.
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Carmelle Kendall: https://Carmellelekendall.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmellecreates
Stock up on stationery: http://www.neighborlypaper.com/
Have you thought about writing your memoir? Or better yet, how about an illustrative memoir?
Jonell Joshua, author and illustrator, joins us to discuss her creative journey and the process of writing her memoir.
Jonell walks us through the process of writing her memoir and the specific tactics she used to accomplish her goal while holding down a full-time job.
You’ll walk away enthralled with Jonell’s story, and who knows, you might be inspired to write your memoir as well.
If you’re listening to this message, we’ll give away 3 books of Jonell via Instagram. Follow us on @thisishowwecreate_ for more.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Jonell Joshua: https://www.jonelljoshua.com/illustrations
Instagram: jonell.joshua
Buy Jonell’s Book: https://www.jonelljoshua.com/pre-order-my-debut-memoir
How can you unleash your creativity and defy limitations? Candice Tavares, is a palliative care pharmacist by day and artist off-the clock.
Candice embraces the rich textures of wood to create powerful works that celebrate Black beauty and shatter negative stereotypes. Her art is a warm embrace, reminding viewers of their inherent value and strength.
Tune in for a dose of inspiration! ✨
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Candice’s work:https://www.noellerx.com/
See Candice’s work on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/noellerx
Ready to unleash your creative potential? Are you curious about how to exhibit your work at major art shows?
Join us as we chat with the incredible artist Tasanee Durrett about her journey of healing, resilience, and finding her artistic voice after a life-changing experience.
Tasanee participates in Chicago EXPO (April 11 - 14, 2024).
Check out her piece "Have Some Faith" is showcased at the EXPO’s Artist Replete.
Tune in for a dose of inspiration! ✨
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced with by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina. Episode research conducted by Braila West.
Get to know Tasanee Durrett: https://www.tasaneeart.com/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tasaneeart
Buy Tasanee’s art: https://www.tasaneeartprints.com/
Ever dreamed of ditching your 9-5 for a life fuelled by passion? This week, meet our guest Tomesha Faxio – lawyer turned photographer – who did just that. Her book Wash Day is a love letter to Black hair, a story of reinvention and fearless creativity.
Tomesha spills the beans on book deals, agents, and the winding path to finding your purpose. Discover how Wash Day went from concept to reality, amplifying Black voices and shattering stereotypes.
Get ready for a dose of hustle, as Tomesha reveals her plans for Wash Day on the big screen and her mission to combat texturism and colorism. This is for the dreamers and the doers!
Episode Overview:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Braila West and Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Get to know Tomesha Faxio: https://www.meshaphotography.com/about
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomeshafaxio/
Buy Tamesha’s book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/715807/wash-day-by-tomesha-faxio/
Want to turn your creative passion into a thriving business? Meet Jeanetta Gonzales, a master of surface design and illustration who's done just that!
Hear how Jeanetta left corporate work to become a sought-after freelancer. Jeanetta shares the intricacies of licensing, the art of negotiation, and the joy of mentoring upcoming talent. Join us as we explore what it means to live a life dedicated to design and legacy building.
Jeanetta has a new course up on Skillshare called: Rise to Your Artistic Potential: Boost Confidence and Conquer Negative Beliefs. Check out the link below:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Get to know Jeanetta Gonzales https://www.jeanettagonzales.com/
Learn from Jeanetta Gonzales https://www.skillshare.com/en/classes/rise-to-your-artistic-potential-boost-confidence-and-conquer-negative-beliefs/373810287?via=search-layout-grid
Touch base with Jeanetta on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nettdesigns
Zoe Si, a talented cartoonist and illustrator with a unique journey from law to art, shares her story on "This is How We Create." Starting as a self-taught artist who used drawing as a stress reliever, Zoe transitioned from her career in law to pursue her passion for art full-time. She opens up about securing her first book deal, contributing to The New Yorker, and her nomination for a Pulitzer Prize.
Zoe provides insight into her daily routines and habits that fuel her creativity, including the significance of consistent drawing practice and a structured schedule. She also gives a sneak peek into her future projects, such as a picture book and a graphic memoir, highlighting her ongoing journey in the art world.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is edited by Casandra Voltolina and produced by Martine Severin.
Keep up with Zoe Si and become a collector by visiting the sites below:
Website: http://www.zoe-si.com/
Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/zoesees/
Substack: https://zoesi.substack.com/
Show Notes
Danielle Scruggs, a photo editor and founder of Black Women Directors, shares her journey from growing up in Rogers Park to becoming a successful photo editor and photographer. She discusses the role of a photo editor, the qualities that make a photographer successful, and how she approaches her own assignments. Danielle also talks about her love for film and the inspiration she draws from it. She shares the story behind Black Women Directors and her plans for the future. Finally, she discusses a profound lesson she learned about embracing failure as a learning experience.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Stay in touch with Danielle Scruggs:
https://daniellescruggs.com/
Black Women Directors: https://www.blackwomendirectors.co/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Production assistance was provided by Braila West.
Join us as Jennifer Turner reveals how she turned her artistic dreams into reality, blending traditional methods with cutting-edge AI. Learn about her inspirations, the evolution of her unique style, and how a background in graphic design paved the way for success. Jennifer's story is a treasure trove of insights and advice for anyone eager to push the boundaries of their creativity and share their art with the world. Jennifer will exhibit her work at the Venice Biennale in April 2024. Please check out her site for more information.
Join us as Jennifer Turner reveals how she turned her artistic dreams into reality, blending traditional methods with cutting-edge AI. Learn about her inspirations, the evolution of her unique style, and how a background in graphic design paved the way for success. Jenn story is a treasure trove of insights and advice for anyone eager to push the boundaries of their creativity and share their art with the world. Jenn will exhibit her work at the Venice Biennale in April 2024. Please check out her site for more information.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Braila West, Alexis Sanchez and Martine Severin.
Keep up with Jennifer Turner and become a collector by visiting the sites below:
Website: https://fineartofjenn.com/
Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/fineartofjenn/
Summary
On this week’s episode of This is How We Create, Tobi Shinobi shares his journey from being a lawyer to becoming a successful photographer.
He shares with us how discovered his passion for photography, and the challenges he faced in finding his style in that genre. Tobi emphasizes the importance of maintaining relationships with gateholders and sponsors as a freelancer. He also shares his seven out of ten principle for creating impactful and consistent work.
Overall, Tobi's story highlights the power of self-belief, perseverance, and attention to detail in pursuing a creative career. Podcast Producer.
Takeaways
- Building a network of talented and like-minded individuals is crucial for success in the photography industry.
- Balancing higher-profile shoots can be stressful, so it's important to find a balance and prioritize self-care.
- How to select your best work using the 7 out of 10 principle.
- Collaborating with other creatives, such as stylists and models, can enhance the quality and creativity of photography projects.
- The Sony Alpha program provides opportunities for recognition and support for photographers.
- Connecting with other photographers and creatives can lead to valuable collaborations and networking opportunities.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Braila West, Alexis Sanchez and Martine Severin.
Get to know Tobi Shinobi better:
Follow Tobi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobishinobi
Website: https://www.tobishinobi.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Tobishinobi
In this episode we remember and celebrate creative life of Lisa Hunt. Lisa was a graphic artist and designer. She shares her creative journey and the influences that sparked her interest in art.
From her childhood experiences with her mother and aunt, to studying graphic design at Pratt Institute, to working in magazine publishing, Lisa's career was been a series of explorations and reinventions.
She eventually embraced her identity as an artist and began creating screen prints and collages. Lisa's story highlights the importance of following one's interests and allowing oneself to stumble and define their own path.
00:55 Early Influences and Interest in Art
07:25 Art School and Pursuing Graphic Design
09:45 Career in Graphic Design and Magazine Publishing
13:05 Transition to Freelancing and Exploring Different Creative Paths
24:23 Transition to Full-Time Artist
28:00 Exploring Printmaking and Pattern
37:25 Promoting Artistic Work and Collaboration
Nicole Crowder is a Furniture Designer + Upholsterer. As a so-called army brat, Nicole lived around the world, an experience that fostered her appreciation for design and how design is represented around the world.
Prior to finding upholstery, Nicole worked as photo editor an experience that taught her the skills of art direction and love of creating vignettes for her finished upholstery pieces so the customer can imagine the products in their home.
During our talk, Nicole talks of how to find and maintain your artistic voice. More importantly she gives great advice on how to maintain your voice and vision particularly when negotiating brand partnerships. Nicole also hints at her upcoming project in textile design, promising even more exciting creations to come.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Martine Severin.
Get to know Nicole Crowder
https://www.nicolecrowderupholstery.com/
https://www.instagram.com/nicolemcrowder/
Let's create a personal strategic plan! Do you ever think about what your life is like in 5 years? Or even in 3 years? Are you feeling lost in a sea of big dreams and grand plans for your future? Do you find yourself constantly jotting down ideas for new projects, but unsure of how to make them a reality?
What if you learned a system to create a personal strategic plan that helps you identify and create an action plan to achieve your dreams.
In this episode, I’m happy to share a workshop that I created for American Photographic Artist, the Chicago. This lighthearted exercise helps you think about how you can craft a strategic plan for the next five years.
During the 1.5-hour session, we'll explore ways to turn those big aspirations into actionable steps. Now is the time to turn those dreams into reality, together!
In this talk I discuss:
- The importance of creating a roadmap and embracing the journey
- We discuss SMART goals, and how to use them to advance your career
- I also share Tools and techniques for staying on the path you've created
Before we begin, let’s talk about what a goal actually is. What is a goal? A goal is an end toward which you make strides.
A long-term goal that’s going to take you years to accomplish. In this context, the goal should be aligned with your personal values and long-term vision. It should contribute to your overall well-being and personal growth. A good goal should be specific and measurable, enabling you to track progress and assess success. It should have a clear deadline or timeframe, which adds a sense of urgency and helps you stay focused.
For example, 10x your income in 5 years.
Or apply to and graduate from a grad school program
Or perhaps it’s find a cure for cancer.
When doing a strategic plan, your goal should be big enough that you can make strides towards it everyday or every week. If you find that your goal can be achieved in a few days or months, ask yourself if your goal is a short-term one or a long-term one. Is your goal part of a larger theme of tasks/goals? As you’ll see, in an example, someone talks about finding an agent. Perhaps finding an agent is part of a larger goal?
Download Gaining Clarity Document: https://mailchi.mp/018dcb3c354a/fw02eausih
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Martine Severin.
Some people wait to be chosen, hired, or validated. But others don't wait. They make their own path with determination. They use different tools, like guerrilla marketing, to get noticed. Dr. Fahamu Pecou is one of those people. Today on the podcast, you'll hear his inspiring journey from dreams of working as an animator to becoming an award-winning artist.
Dr. Pecou studied painting, when he secured a job as a graphic designer, his artistic career changed course. In our talk, Dr Pecou shares how his hip-hop influenced his work and how his work came to challenge societal views of Black identity and more specifically, Black masculinity.
Get to Know Dr Fahamu Pecou:
https://www.instagram.com/fahamupecou/
https://www.fahamupecouart.com/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Martine Severin.
I’m so excited to welcome famed member of the group Kassav Jocelyne Beroard, to the podcast today! We truly never know what the future holds for us. The same can be said for Jocelyne who grew up on the island of Martinique in the 1950s and 60s. Though she played piano as a child, Jocelyne never had a career in music in mind as she grew up. As you’ll hear, Jocelyne attempted a career in medicine and in fine-art before finding singing. Tuck in, to hear how Jocelyne navigated more than 30 years as a musician. Jocelyne talks about how she came to cultivate and love her voice as a musician. Most recently she wrote her memoir in French, Jocelyne Bernard, Loin de L’amer.
Get in touch with Jocelyne
https://www.instagram.com/jenbewa/
https://www.instagram.com/kassav_official/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by and edited by Martine Severin.
I’m happy to host Jasmine Guillory in the guest chair. Jasmine started her career out as a lawyer, but fell into writing books after participating in a National Novel Writing Month Challenge. Since then she has written over 8 books. Her most page turning and delightful book, Drunk On Love is widely available.
During our time together, Jasmine and I talk about how she came to find her voice as a writer and we discuss her writing process. Lastly, Jasmine talks about how she manages to maintains boundaries whether she’s collaborating with Amazon or with Hello Sunshine. It was a treat to chat with one of my favorite contemporary authors. Please enjoy this conversation with Jasmine Guillory.
Get in touch with Jasmine
https://www.jasmineguillory.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jasminepics/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Have you ever wondered how a movie gets made? Or better yet, where do the ideas from movies come from? And if you’re like me, a person who has her eyes set on making a short film, wouldn’t it be great if there were someone there to help you buff up your idea and make the end product simply spectacular?
Shannan E. Johnson, is a former creative executive at NBCU/The Syfy Channel. She left her full-time give to become a storytelling expert who develops creatives and their ideas for the screen.
As a script consultant, teacher + therapist. She uses her innate understanding of story telling to make compelling TV and movies as well.
In today’s podcast, Shannan walks us through her wide-ranging career and shares what it’s like to work in Hollywood. Oh, and there are also the great tips, she shared on how to write and tell a story. I walked away from our conversation with a framework on how to approach fear and how to position my vision so that I can achieve my desirable outcomes!
As you listen to the interview the conversation will skip forward, this is because Shannan’s audio cut off at certain points.
Get in touch with Shannan: http://www.shannanejohnson.com/
Join The Professional Pen https://www.awriterforyourwriter.com/bio.html
https://www.instagram.com/shannanejohnson/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/theprofessionalpen/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie.
Have you ever wondered what an artist’s week looks like? In this episode, photographer and This is How We Create Host walks her through a week in her work life.
How do your weeks go? Please share your favorite moment from this past week by sending us an email hello@martineseverin.com.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This episode of This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin.
Welcome back to This is How We Create. My name is Martine Severin your host. I’m excited to welcome Lisa Hunt is artist and designer.
Lisa has had a wide-ranging career as a creative, from doing work as a graphic designer, to becoming a magazine editor credits her aunts and mom in sparking her interests in art and in creating.
In art school she sharpened her interests and while there took screen printing as an elective. Lisa says that during that time in her life, “I allowed myself to stumble and find what I was interested in.” Later that screen printing class would influence the work she would create as an artist waay down the line.
Boy, did I love hearing about Lisa’s life and about why she made the decisions she made to get to where she is today. I could have talked to her for ages. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I do!
Get in touch with Lisa: https://www.lisahuntcreative.com/
https://www.instagram.com/creativehunt/?hl=en
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie.
In this episode of the This Is How We Create podcast we talk with interior designer, Gail M Davis.
Gail Davis Designs is renowned for crafting elegant interiors that feel soulful, livable, and personal. For 15 years, celebrated designer Gail M. Davis has applied her formal design training to homes across the country, transforming houses into her clients’ forever homes.
With a background in the fashion industry, Gail is passionate about using color and textiles throughout her projects. Though her spaces are steeped in classical decorating principles, she is passionate about crafting interiors that are comfortable, functional living spaces. Each client is different, and each space must consider the reality of their lives, not just serve as a beautiful room.
Gail studied at New York School of Interior Design and honed her craft interning at two of New York City’s most prestigious firms—Bunny Williams Inc. and David Kleinberg Design Associates. Her projects have been published in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, AD Pro, Domino, and more.
Get in touch with Gail: https://www.gaildavisdesignsllc.com/portfolio
https://www.instagram.com/gaildavisdesigns/
Listen to Gail's podcast: https://www.gaildavisdesignsllc.com/podcast
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie.
Today on the This is How We Create Podcast, international master photographer and Sony Artisan Scott Robert Lim joins us to talk about how he learned to spot and create a catalog of opportunities as an artist even when the unthinkable happens and income streams dry up.
Scott Robert Lim is a certified educator and has over 70 international awards to his name.
For the last decade, he has dedicated his career to developing world-class photographers and loves teaching photographers of all levels. As you’ll be able to tell, Scott has an energetic and charismatic speaking style and is an industry leader in photography education.
Scott shares how he’s managed to create a life and career on his terms. Furthermore, he shares the thinking processes he uses to create a runway to success!
Get to Know Scott Robert Lim: https://www.thisiscolossal.com/
IG https://www.instagram.com/scottrobertlim/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/ Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie
This Is Colossal https://www.thisiscolossal.com/
Hey there. Welcome back to This is How We Create, I’m your host, Martine Severin, In this episode I not only talk with a delightful person but a talented one at that. Hailey Losselyong is a Chicago based multidisciplinary artist. Hailey when growing up didn’t always know that she would become an artist. She sewed as her grandmother did, and would make friendship bracelets to sell to her classmates.
She went to school thinking she would focus on business, but she turned to visual arts instead .
During out time together, Hailey shares her journey to becoming and artist, talks about her dreams for her and the directions she wants to take with her work in the future.
Just a heads up, there’ll be a long pause around midway through the episode. I’ve left that pause in the show on purpose. Stay with it!
Stay in touch with Hailey: https://hml-design.myshopify.com/
And follow Hailey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hml.design/
Vault Gallery in Pilsen
In this episode we mentioned the work of Hebru Brantley: https://www.hebrubrantley.com/ and Joy Cho: https://ohjoy.com/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create and edited and produced by Martine Severin
Welcome back to This is How We Create! In this episode, our host, Martine Severin will walk us through how she aims to live a purposeful life through the creation of a strategic plan and quarterly reviews. Martine will walk us through the ins-and-outs of creating a review so that you can reflect on your goals thus far in the year and forge a path forward to success.
To follow along and to create your own Quarterly Review be sure to download the PDF handout here.
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Follow Martine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create and edited and produced by Martine Severin
My guest Susan J Chen is an award-winning photographer whose work bridges the commercial and fine art world. She uses a conceptual approach to fashion, portraits, things, and motion.
Her work has been described as cinematic, moody and emotionally charged with color and dark humor.
Susan was chosen by Saatchi Art as one of top 100 women artists in the world. Her work has been shown in NY, LA, SF, Minneapolis, Tokyo, Miami, and Cataluna, Spain.
Movies:
Keep up with Susan J Chen https://www.susanjchen.com/
https://www.instagram.com/susanjchen/
In the Mood for Love - Wong kar Wai
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown by Pedro Almodovar
https://www.saatchiart.com/all?query=susan%20j%20chen#
Hey friends, Martine Severin. Welcome back to This is How We Create.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about what it means to live in your art—that place where you produce work that pushes you, the place where you create work that thrills you and work that allows you to be the creative you want to be?
Today in the chair, we’re chatting with someone who proposes a different way of moving towards that goal. Our guest, Dr Charmain Jackman is a therapist and founder of InnoPsych, an organization on amission to change the face of therapy and to promote wellness & healing for people of color.
Through this episode, Dr Jackman challenges us on how to we can begin to or continue to steward our mental health to improve our overall well-being and the way in which we create.
Enjoy!
Charmain F. Jackman, Ph.D., is a Harvard-trained, licensed psychologist with over 23 years in the mental health field. Dr. Jackman is the founder + CEO of InnoPsych, Inc., an organization on a mission to change the face of therapy and to promote wellness & healing for people of color. InnoPsych, Inc., is an award-winning organization focused on increasing access to therapy through its online therapist of color directory and thought-provoking emotional wellness programming.
As a change-maker, Dr. Jackman is passionate about the intersection of psychology, mental health, and diversity, equity, and inclusion and has created social impact initiatives that support community members and mental health professionals. She has used her expertise to shape how organizations respond to and support their employees during the COVID-19 and racial violence crises. Dr. Jackman is the recipient of the City of Boston’s 2021 Innovator of the Year Award.
In 2020, Dr. Jackman was the recipient of the American Psychological Association’s 2020 PLC Diversity Award, and was named one of the 50 Most Influential Business People of Color by the Newton-Needham Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Jackman LOVES talking about mental health and is a national spokesperson for mental health and emotional wellness. She has also been featured in both print and TV media outlets locally and nationally.
Learn more about Dr Jackman: www.InnoPsych.com | www.DrCharmainJackman.com.
Follow: @InnoPsych | @AskDrCharmain
Check out our episode on: How to gain clarity when you’re feeling uncertain: https://anchor.fm/martine-severin/episodes/Solo-Episode-How-to-gain-clarity-when-youre-feeling-uncertain-ei4bcn
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
We have Chicago-based artist Myron Laban in the guest chair. As a self-described multi-hyphenate artist, Myron dabbles in painting, in creating music and in his full-time job as a pharmacist.
Myron has one of the best bios I’ve come across, which I’ll read to you just now:
Myron is:
A Young man
Goofy is understated
Pyramids and Sahara skinned
Finger pricks, syringes, and vials full of insulin
CTA rider, Art maker
Converse con strangers with a smile
Makes paint flow like canoes down rivers
Cheerios for breakfast, pushups for dinner
Pill Counting, neon green New Balance
Baby blue scrubs. [As a trained pharmacists he says}
Ask me about your drugs
Our conversation focuses on how to create a positive mindset and to use that mindset to do good work, to be a good person and to use art as a way of healing others.
Get to know Myron Laban
https://myronlaban.com/
https://www.instagram.com/myronlaban/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie.
How do you keep yourself motivated with each project you’re taking on? What patterns or processes do you have to launch you into creating new work? How do you motivate yourself past by one, five, 10, 15 and even 20 false starts? How do you motivate yourself to get it done after those failed beginnings?
Today, one of my favorite writer, Edwidge Danticat joins on the show to talk about how she became a writer. As an aside as a young Haitian girl, reading Edwidge’s book inspired me to start thinking that I could be a creator.
Edwidge will share her artistic process-I know! I’m excited for you to listen as well!
Edwidge Danticat is the author of several books, including Breath, Eyes, Memory, The Farming of Bones, Claire of the Sea Light, as well as The Art of Death, and Brother, I'm Dying, a National Books Critics Circle winner.
She is a two time winner of The Story Prize and a 2009 MacArthur Fellow, and a 2020 winner of the Vilceck Prize.
Her most recent book, Everything Inside: Stories, is a 2020 winner of the Bocas Fiction Prize, The Story Prize, and the National Books Critics Circle Fiction Prize. She is a Member of The American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Stay in touch with Edwidge Danticat: http://www.edwidgedanticatsociety.org/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
This is How We Create is produced and edited by Martine Severin
What convictions that you have? How do you want to live your life and how you want to—if you consider yourself a creator, craft your art. It’s a tender thing to have the courage of your conviction and to know when to be buck convention in order to give birth to something truly novel.
For me, I love rules. Mainly to learn the rules of whatever genre I’m studying so that I can break them and attempt something new. In today’s episode, Nastassja talks to us about her journey to becoming a fiber artist. She’ll share with us how her art helps her to understand Black girlhood in the US. Nastassja’s work will surprise and delight you. Mostly her approach to her work, may give you new perspectives in your own life.
Nastassja Swift is sculptural fiber artist redefining her use of portraiture through wool to create
work that speaks to spirituality, history and place in relation to the body.
Nastassja was recently invited to Penland School of Craft’s Winter Residency as a Distinguished Fellow.
She is the recipient of a 2022 -23 VMFA Fellowship, the 2021 Dr. Doris Derby Award, the Art Matters 2021 Artist2Artist Award, the Black Box Press Foundation 2021 Art as Activism Grant, and the 2020 Virginia Commission of the Arts Fellowship.
Her work has been acquired into the Grace Linton Battle Memorial Fund for the Arts Collection, as well as Quirk Hotel in Charlottesville.
Nastassja Swift is currently living and working in Virginia.
Get to know more about Nastassja:
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/ Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
This is How We Create and edited and produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie
Welcome back to the This is How We Create podcast. I’m your host, Martine Severin.
A few months ago, I hosted a talk with Portland Maine Photographer, Sean Alonzo Harris where he shared his images from past exhibitions.
Today I’m sharing an episode of American Photographic’s Artists’ Series called Scope with you. While this conversation will be slightly different than our general This is How We Create shows, I hope you’ll learn about How you as an artist can create personal work and find a gallery or a space to exhibit this work.
During this conversation, Sean Alonzo Harris will talk about his journey as a photographer and will shed a light on his artistic practice.
View Sean Alonzo Harris's Scope interview: https://youtu.be/ARYtwpGObww
Check out Sean's Work: https://www.seanalonzoharris.com/
Visit Sean on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/seanalonzoharris/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/ Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
This episode of How We Create and edited and produced and edited by Martine Severin.
Today, our guest Farissa Knox, who is a Chicago-based author, producer and entrepreneur.
Farissa is Founder and CEO of RLM Media, an integrated marketing and communications advertising
agency, and WhatRUWearing (WRUW) Productions. As will become evident through our conversation, Farissa is a visionary creative executive, passionate storyteller and tastemaker. She shares the insider journey of creating her own agency, how she set up her business and the surprises she learned along the way!
Get to know Farissa Knox:
https://www.instagram.com/farissaknox/
RLM Media: https://rlm-media.net/
Purchase Farissa’s book: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3AFarissa+Knox&s=relevancerank&text=Farissa+Knox&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/ Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
This is How We Create and edited and produced by Martine Severin and edited by Ray Abercrombie
How you wondered how some people manage to craft a path towards their dreams and goals even when they haven’t a roadmap to get to where they want to go? They don’t quite know how things will go, but they take one step at at time towards their true North.
This episode details Nathalie Gordon’s story. Much like many of the artists we’ve featured on This is How We Create, Nathalie possesses the conviction of purpose.
My main take away from our conversation is how much Nathalie understands and trust herself. That trust allows her to be courageous in life, to follow her gut, to create the work that is unique to her and even to move from one country to another.
I’ve admired Nathalie’s work for years and am honored to talk with her about what drives her work and her creativity.
Born and raised in London but now based in LA, Nathalie is known as photographer for her hyper realistic style. Her work is packed with high sheen and edge, yet she is able to maintain a realistic and believable representation of her subjects.
Her use of high flash and big gloss, keep you on the edge they keep you wanting more as her work incorporates human feelings and emotion in a photorealistic way.
Get to know Nathalie Gordon
https://www.nathaliegordon.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photonathalie/
Keep up with your host Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/ Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
This is How We Create and edited and produced by Martine Severin
On the podcast today, we’re chatting with photographer Thalia Gochez. When I first came across Thalia work, I gasped. She creates portraits of the womxn in her neighborhood in a tender yet commanding way. She arrests your attention to convey her love and respect for her subjects.
A print of Thalia’s work hangs proudly in my home. Each time I pass this image of two young women sitting on a stoop, I settle more securely into myself. I see more beauty in the world.
During our conversation, we talk about how Thalia centers herself in order to create work. We cover what she demands when taking a commission in order to create her special brand of magic. This episode is a masterclass in how to step into your power.
Book recommendation: All About Love: New Visions by Bell Hooks
Stay in touch with Thalia Gochez: https://www.instagram.com/thaliagochez/
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.
I’m excited to welcome architect and design tastemaker Obiora Nwazota to the show!
Obiara will talk to us about how his experience in design and architecture and understanding of Igbo culture aided him in writing a successful children’s book. Through his writing and work, Obiora normalizes stories that celebrates Igbo culture and provides us with a different lens through which to view Black culture.
Obi moved to the US from Nigeria to study architecture. Upon his graduation he went on to work at the most innovative design firms in Chicago. From there, he would found his own firm, ONA formation, where he created several acclaimed projects influencing various scenes and cultures throughout Chicago before becoming the owner of the Orange Skin Showroom and Minotti-Chicago MonoBrand Showroom.
In 2020 Obi launched ỌKPARA HOUSE©, whose mission is to harness the power of good design, dialogue, and academic research as powerful agents to stimulate, reactivate, elevate, and reimagine Igbo culture. Through this, he reclaims and asserts Igbo culture's relevance to contemporary lifestyles within and beyond the Igbo community.
In April 2021, Okpara House Publishing released their first book, “Nkemdiche, Why We Do Not Grow Beards," an all-ages illustrated storybook.
During our conversation with Obi, we will discuss how he came to architecture and how growing up Igbo influences everything he does.
We talk about what culture means and what it means to be of African Descent in these modern times and how to think about imbuing rituals in our every day routines.
We close the discussion with the story of how he came to write his book, "Nkemdiche, Why We Do Not Grow Beards.”
Get to know Obiara Nwazota
https://www.okparahouse.com/shop
https://www.instagram.com/okparahouse/
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create has been edited by Martine Severin.
Episode 32 How Ayana Ross Became a Figurative Painter
Ayana Ross is an American figurative artist based in Atlanta, Georgia. She holds an MA degree in Painting from Savannah College of Art and Design, a MA in Liberal Art from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro and a BS in Design and Merchandising from Georgia Southern University.
She has exhibited in several group shows, including The Bennett Prize II, Rising Voices group exhibition that will exhibit throughout the United States until 2023.
In addition, her work is held in a number of prominent collections worldwide. In 2020, Ross was named a recipient of the National Black Art Forward Artist Grant.
In 2021 Ross was named the winner of The Bennett Prize II, the largest prize offered solely to women figurative painters.
Get to know Ayana Ross:
https://www.ayanaross.com/
https://www.instagram.com/ayanarossart/
Keep up with Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Thanks for listening. This is How We Create is produced and edited by me, Martine Severin. Production help has been provided by Ray Abercrombie!
I’m so happy to welcome Joy Dolo to the podcast today.
Joy Dolo is an Actor, Writer, Educator, and Podcast Host based in Minneapolis, Minnesota!
She is an avid comedienne and is the co-creator of Blackout Improv, the first all black Improv troupe in Minnesota.
Joy also Hosts for American Public Media Kids podcasts "Forever Ago" - a fun podcast that explores the history of objects. By the way, Forever Ago is back it’s hilarious so give it a listen if you have kiddos. And even give it a listen without kids. You’ll have fun!
During our time together Joy and I discuss her journey to improv and comedy as well as how vulnerability can be a conduit to creativity. She even shares an exercise you can use to ground yourself so that you can guarantee your success in what you achieve.
As you’ll be able to tell, Joy and I had a great time together. I hope you enjoy your conversation as well.
Listen to Forever Ago: https://www.brainson.org/collection/forever-ago-podcast
Contact at joydolo.org
Keep up with Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Thanks for listening. This is How We Create is produced and edited by me, Martine Severin. Production help has been provided by Ray Abercrombie!
Episode: 30
We’ll start Season 3 talking about a dirty word that starts with the letter F!
No, not that F, silly! We’re going to talk about that other F that has us cringing, second guessing ourselves and dealing with the consequences of our actions and inactions. We’re going to talk about Failure!
We've invited two past guests and one guest from Season 3 to talk with you about Failure. Each person will share a memory of when things didn’t quite worked out as expected and in turn share what they learned from that episode of their life.
First up is Kristyn Ivey (Episode 23) who shares a financial failure with credit cards that would end up changing her relationship with money.
Priya Shah (Episode 26) shares what happens when a partnership fails and why it’s important to outline out shared values when entering into partnerships.
As a sneak peek into Season, 3, you’ll get to meet Farissa Knox from a coming episode. Farissa shares 3 failures she encountered while running her media company. One such fumble includes when to seek out financing necessary to keep her business afloat, another is on the power of persistence, and lastly she tackles perfection!
I hope you’ll enjoy the show. Send us a voice memo to martine@martineseverin.com to share your dances with “failure!” I’d love to feature you on the next Failure round up!
Here’s to welcoming more F bombs in your life.
Keep up with Martine Severin https://martineseverin.com/
Follow This Is How We Create on IG. https://www.instagram.com/thisishowwecreate_/
Thanks for listening. This is How We Create is produced and edited by me, Martine Severin. Production help has been provided by Ray Abercrombie!
Hello! Martine Severin here.
The best artists create work that seems simply effortless. As an illustrator and fine artist, Raymond Bonilla’s work captures beautiful fleeting moments.
During our time together Ray tells us how he came to fall in love with illustration and with fine art. We spend some time talking about how you don’t have to born an artist. You can acquire the skills and later turn those skills into your own style. Lastly, we turn our attention to the art of process and how Raymond’s teachers have influenced and guided him along his journey!
Enjoy!
Learn more about Raymond Bonilla:https://www.raymondbonilla.com/ https://www.instagram.com/raybonillapainter/
Live Brush - Twitch link: https://www.twitch.tv/livebrush
Live Brush - YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoA3RO9a683hh4eWP3PiHVA
Meibohm Fine Arts: https://www.meibohmfinearts.com/artists/details/1465
Abend Gallery:https://abendgallery.com/artist/raymond-bonilla
Arcadia Contemporary: http://www.arcadiacontemporary.com/catalogs/2020/five-and-under-revised.php/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by Henry Edwards
In Case You Missed It (ICYMI), take a listen to one of my favorite conversations with Chicago-based ceramicist, Danielle Chutinthranond of Monsoon Pottery.
Essentialism and minimalism are always on Danielle's mind when creating. To that end, she believes that the objects in our homes should be useful, durable, and beautiful. In service to these beliefs, all of her work is microwave, dishwasher, and even oven safe. Beautiful doesn’t have to be precious. Useful can still be romantic. Danielle specializes in ceramic dinnerware and housewares. She credits her inspiration to nature, classic Asian motifs, Chinatown, and—over everything else—restaurant and food culture.
She grew up in a Thai/Pacific rim restaurant in upstate New York and learned from a very young age that food is special, personal, and becomes even more meaningful when presented with care and attention to detail. Each piece Danielle makes is focused on enhancing the beauty and ritual of your table.
Monsoon Pottery: https://monsoonpottery.com/
Connect with Danielle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/monsoonpottery/
Book Recommendation: The Secret History by Donna Tartt
How to be an AntiRacist by Ibram X. Kendi
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
Brent Lewis is a Photo Editor based out of New York City, co-founder of Diversify.Photo. He hails from the greatest city in the world Chicago, South Side to be exact.
Brent is a photo editor at The New York Times working on the Express Desk, assigning visual coverage of breaking and viral news across the globe.
Brent was a Photo Editor at The Washington Post. Formerly, he was the Senior Photo Editor of ESPN’s The Undefeated, where he drove the visual language of the website that is based around the intersection of sports, race, and culture.
Before turning his life over to photo editing, he was a staff photojournalist with stints at The Denver Post, The Rockford Register Star, and the Chillicothe Gazette.
“Until lions find their storytellers stories about hunting will always glorify the hunters.”
-African proverb
Get to know Brent Lewis
http://www.blewisphoto.com/
https://diversify.photo/
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
Well hello there, Welcome back to This is How We Create. In the guest chair, we are welcoming Priya Shah.
Priya Shah is a Chicago creative and entrepreneur, she has built a network of artists and collaborators dedicated to igniting social awareness and change through art and imagination.
During our time together, Priya shares her wide-ranging career about how she has come to create her organization, Simple Good.
This conversation with Priya picks up where our talk with Dr Charmaine Jackman left off—we focus on social-emotional learning, on negative self-talk and on what it means to focus on the simple good in life.
Ok, here’s more about Priya.
Priya Shah began volunteering in developing countries at a young age, which inspired her to fill the gap between business and the social sector. Shah's passion for art and travel has fueled her purpose to help better communities in Chicago and around the world. Through her experience, Shah has developed a unique perspective on humanity and believes it is her responsibility to engage communities in need.
Her purpose took shape when she founded The Simple Good, a non-profit with the mission to connect the meaning of good from around the world, empowering youth to become positive activists through art and discussion.
By uniting communities under a universal truth, Shah hopes to bridge understanding across all walks of life in order to bring down obstacles separating us in working towards improving the lives of our children and in turn, our future.
She is the co-author of the latest children’s book focused on representative literature called, ‘Sheroes of COVID-19’ and also the producer on the upcoming documentary, Project: Building Hope, documenting the journey of spreading art and resilience from Chicago to East Africa.
Get to know Priya Shah
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/priyashah16/
http://www.iampriyashah.com/
http://www.thesimplegood.org/
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
Hey friends, Martine Severin. Welcome back to This is How We Create.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about what it means to live in your art—that place where you produce work that pushes you, the place where you create work that thrills you and work that allows you to be the creative you want to be?
Today in the chair, we’re chatting with someone who proposes a different way of moving towards that goal. Our guest, Dr Charmain Jackman is a therapist and founder of InnoPsych, an organization on amission to change the face of therapy and to promote wellness & healing for people of color.
Through this episode, Dr Jackman challenges us on how to we can begin to or continue to steward our mental health to improve our overall well-being and the way in which we create.
Enjoy!
Charmain F. Jackman, Ph.D., is a Harvard-trained, licensed psychologist with over 23 years in the mental health field. Dr. Jackman is the founder + CEO of InnoPsych, Inc., an organization on a mission to change the face of therapy and to promote wellness & healing for people of color. InnoPsych, Inc., is an award-winning organization focused on increasing access to therapy through its online therapist of color directory and thought-provoking emotional wellness programming.
As a change-maker, Dr. Jackman is passionate about the intersection of psychology, mental health, and diversity, equity, and inclusion and has created social impact initiatives that support community members and mental health professionals. She has used her expertise to shape how organizations respond to and support their employees during the COVID-19 and racial violence crises. Dr. Jackman is the recipient of the City of Boston’s 2021 Innovator of the Year Award.
In 2020, Dr. Jackman was the recipient of the American Psychological Association’s 2020 PLC Diversity Award, and was named one of the 50 Most Influential Business People of Color by the Newton-Needham Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Jackman LOVES talking about mental health and is a national spokesperson for mental health and emotional wellness. She has also been featured in both print and TV media outlets locally and nationally.
Learn more about Dr Jackman: www.InnoPsych.com | www.DrCharmainJackman.com.
Follow: @InnoPsych | @AskDrCharmain
Check out our episode on: How to gain clarity when you’re feeling uncertain: https://anchor.fm/martine-severin/episodes/Solo-Episode-How-to-gain-clarity-when-youre-feeling-uncertain-ei4bcn
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
Hi, It’s Martine Severin here. Welcome back.
We have social justice artist, Tonika Lewis Johnson on the show to talk about how you can use your art to spark compassion, good citizenship and to improve the lives of the people in your neighborhood.
The first part of our conversation focuses on Tonika’s early life and the second part focuses on how her twenties and her upbringing brought her to create Folded Map as a way to disrupt systemic racism and historic segregation in Chicago. I can’t wait for you to dig into to this episode and to get to know the Powerhouse that is Tonika!
Tonika Johnson is a photographer/social justice artist and life-long resident of Chicago’s South Side neighborhood of Englewood. She is also co-founder of two community-based organizations, Englewood Arts Collective and Resident Association of Greater Englewood, that mobilize people and resources for positive change. She turned the Folded Map project into a non-profit organization where she serves as Executive Director. She was named one of Field Foundation’s Leaders for a New Chicago and most recently, she was appointed as a member of the Cultural Advisory Council of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events by the Chicago City Council.
Stay Connected with Tonika Lewis Johnson
https://www.foldedmapproject.com/interactive-maps
IG: https://www.instagram.com/tonikaj/
Personal Site: https://www.tonijphotography.com/
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Welcome back to Season 2 of This is How We Create.
Today, we welcome Kristyn Ivey to the chair.
Kristyn Ivey, is Chicago’s first platinum-certified KonMari Consultant and founder of For the Love of Tidy.
She’s dedicated to teaching busy families, professionals, and creative entrepreneurs how to let go of “stuff” and attract a truly abundant life. Educated in both engineering and interior design, Kristyn applies her project management background and innate creativity to transform homes with order and style — all in harmony with the KonMari Method™.
Dedicated to Marie Kondo’s mission to inspire the world to choose joy, Kristyn helps clients declutter their way to becoming Graduates of Tidy and masters of life.
Stay Connected with Kristyn Ivey
https://fortheloveoftidy.com/
https://www.instagram.com/fortheloveoftidy/?hl=en
The Spark Joy Podcast https://www.sparkjoypodcast.com/
Kristyn's TED Talk: Confronting Your Online Order History is the New Self-Care: https://youtu.be/SbgT9Q8_xzs
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
When was the last time someone delighted you? And when was the last time you practiced the art of hostmanship. For me, this happened twice in the last few weeks when I interviewed Tamy Tiongson, hospitality and restaurant expert who uses cooking and baking as a way to express her creativity.
During this episode, Tamy shares her journey from culinary school to working in the hospitality industry and restaurants. For years she baked as a stress release. When the pandemic hit, she refocused her energy to open her bakeshop, Tamarella’s Kitchen.
Tamy delighted me a second time by sending a basket of goodies from Tamarella’s Kitchen while I was editing this episode! Let us mark this as the first time that I’ve had to rewrite an intro!
Enjoy my time with Tamy! And Don’t forget to check out Tamarella’s Kitchen.
Get to know Tamy Tiongson Tosca better
https://www.instagram.com/terribletamy/
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
We know that branding is a way to use symbols, colors, shapes, and words to create a deliberate association between a company’s or a product’s promise.
When creatives present their work we are expected to go beyond just presenting the work. We must also share what we stand for and use the personal to communicate our offerings to help us stand out in the crowd.
In my conversation with Darnell Scott a visual brand manager at Apostrophe Reps, we discuss the subtitles of how creatives can craft a visual brand to create an instant association with our work.
Darnell shares some key tips on how to present yourself and your work in such a way to help you stand out.
Darnell shares information on the best way to show your work online, the best programs to use to create your promos, and how to organize your archive.
Enjoy the show and I’ll check you later.
Get to know Darnell Scott better:
Apostrophe Reps: https://www.apostrophereps.com/
https://www.instagram.com/_darnellscott_/
Favorite place for camping: Big Sur, Gallatin National Forest
Harriman State Park: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/145/details.aspx
Book: The Artist’s Way: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-artists-way-julia-cameron/1123638709?ean=9780143129257
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
When was the last time you had a conversation with someone who delighted you?
Where chatting with that person is like going on a walk in a new neighborhood where with every turn, you discover something new.
My conversation with Pulitzer Prize-Winning Photographer Essdras M Suarez, felt like such a walk.
Essdras shares stories of how he first stumbled on photography and the journey he went on to develop his eye and his skill as a visual storyteller.
During our conversation, Essdras takes us to Panama, to the jungles of Central America, to Florida, and the Middle East!
Essdras also goes on to share tips that any artist, whether you’re a fine artist, you work with mixed materials, there’s something in this episode for you.
Learn more about Essdras:
essdras.com
https://www.instagram.com/essdrasmsuarez/
Vis Yoga: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4d07NhzHOg9VuYW82vdkdA/videos
Portfolio Review:
https://essdras.teachable.com/p/portfolio-reviews
Photo Mechanic: https://home.camerabits.com/
Catch up with your host, Martine Séverin
www.martineseverin.com
Today’s episode of This is How We Create features yours truly, Martine Séverin.
I am so pleased to share with you an interview in which Sony Artisan Tony Gale invited me to his podcast Sony Alpha Photographers Podcast.
Tony and I talk about my work as a photographer, to share what’s in my bag and the tools I use to create stories. During my talk with Tony, I’ll share more information about how my experience with the program. Tony also asks me some questions about dream assignments, so you’ll have to take a listen to know more!
Last year, I was welcomed to join the Sony family as a Sony Alpha Female. The Sony Alpha Female supports the growth of under-represented voices in photography, videography, and filmmaking, and provide a platform.
You will have 12 opportunities to win, with the final opportunity ending on February 15, 2021. Check out the link below for more information on the Sony Alpha Female program.
Tony Gale https://www.tonygale.com/index/G0000H.m9wKKQIJI
Sony Alpha Photographers Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sony-alpha-photographers/id1504933102
Sony Alpha Female https://alphauniverse.com/alpha-female/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
Today we're changing things up a bit. I've invited my best friend, sister and my PIC aka partner in Crime. Jenny Severin to the podcast.
Jenny and I are will chat about the art of travel and the art of escape.
Jennys has been traveling since the age o 8 and has been to over 40 countries to date. With friends, with family but mostly by herself.
I thought it would be cool to hear about her fave places and about unexpected corners of the world we can consider when we are no longer in the clutches of a pandemic.
Scotts Cheap Flights: https://scottscheapflights.com/
SkyScanner: https://www.skyscanner.com/
Girls Gone International: https://www.girlgoneinternational.com/
Tripit: https://www.tripit.com/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
Think about the things you do in life that make you happy. The things that keep you centered, such as journaling or writing. Imagine creating a living out of those interests. Today, we welcome Alisha Sommer to the podcast. Alisha is a photographer, marketer, and writer based out of Napa Valley.
She is known for her moody photography, her writing, and great knowledge of wine. During our conversation, Alisha shares her morning routine, how she developed her eye, and how to articulate your boundaries to your loved ones. Enjoy!
Learn more about Alisha Sommer
Website https://www.alishasommer.com/
Blog https://www.sommersalt.com/
IG https://www.instagram.com/alisha_sommer/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
Hello! Martine Severin here.
The best artists create work that seems simply effortless. As an illustrator and fine artist, Raymond Bonilla’s work captures beautiful fleeting moments.
During our time together Ray tells us how he came to fall in love with illustration and with fine art. We spend some time talking about how you don’t have to born an artist. You can acquire the skills and later turn those skills into your own style. Lastly, we turn our attention to the art of process and how Raymond’s teachers have influenced and guided him along his journey!
Enjoy!
Learn more about Raymon Bonilla:https://www.raymondbonilla.com/https://www.instagram.com/raybonillapainter/
Live Brush - Twitch link: https://www.twitch.tv/livebrush
Live Brush - YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoA3RO9a683hh4eWP3PiHVA
Meibohm Fine Arts: https://www.meibohmfinearts.com/artists/details/1465
Abend Gallery:https://abendgallery.com/artist/raymond-bonilla
Arcadia Contemporary: http://www.arcadiacontemporary.com/catalogs/2020/five-and-under-revised.php/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
For today’s episode, the tables have turned! Amy V Cooper is interviewing me! Nope, I'm not talking with THAT Amy.
Amy V Cooper is a photography business consultant and coach, and founder of the artist representation agency, Trove Artist Management.
We chatted in May 2020 while most of the US was still in quarantine. Amy and I talk about some of the best advice I’ve ever been given. We revisit my experience with the Sony Alpha Female Creator in Residence program.
And towards the end of our convo, I share with Amy my favorite images I’ve made over the years.
To see the actual images we mention, Amy posted my interview with her on her YouTube Channel and I’ve included that episode in the show notes for you.
Martine x Amy Conversation
https://youtu.be/AmsEpFM-nXY
Amy V Cooper's Commercial Masterclass https://www.udemy.com/course/commercial-photography-masterclass/
Amy V Cooper https://www.instagram.com/amyvcooper/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by the lovely Casandra Voltolina
We welcome, fine art painter, Rhonda K Brown, to the podcast today. Rhonda retells her journey and shares what inspires her as an artist. She reveals how she knows when an art piece is done, how to chooses her color pallette, and how she trained her eye.
If you love art and want to discover new artists, Rhonda offers a trove of information on the best artists of yesteryear and of today.
Rhonda has also started a new venture with her son called Critique House, an organisation that helps BIPOC artists continue to thrive as they pursue their creative practice.
Learn more about Rhonda K Brown and connect with Rhonda on IG https://www.instagram.com/rhondabrownfineart/
Critique House: https://critiquehouse.com/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina
Today on the podcast we welcome, Fares Micue, a Spanish self-taught fine art/conceptual photographer.
Fares started photography back in 2009 after she discovered the photography site Flickr.
At first, she treated her exploration of photography as a way to have nice pictures to share in her profile without putting much thought into the photography process.
Six 6 years later, she realized that photography was the perfect medium to share her thoughts, ideas, and perception of reality with others.
From that moment on, she took a different approach to the way she created her images. She put extra attention to all the key elements ——location, colors, props, feeling, story, and meaning, to create a final image that alignment with her original vision.
Micue shares, "As a self-portrait artist, I use the observation of my surroundings, human interactions, and my own feelings to create beautiful conceptual images. My work is full of symbolism, every element in my compositions has a purpose, from the colors to the props to the body language, and the combination of all these elements creates the final conceptual image."
Fares continues, "I am a highly positive person and this positivity often reflects on my work delivering images with a. strong message on personal growth, reflection, self-worth, and overcoming obstacles. The key elements of my art are simple backgrounds, saturated colors and strong conceptual theme loaded with an aesthetic charm. I want my work to be viewed as a whole story condensed in one frame.”
Fares loves books by Agatha Christie.
Learn more about Fares Micue
https://www.instagram.com/faresmicuephotography/
https://www.saatchiart.com/faresmicue
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina
I’m Martine Severin and This is How We Create
Los Angeles and Nashville based photographer Diana King sits in the guest chair today. We talk about how her career in film and how that experience eventually led her to photography.
We wrap up the show by chatting about her latest personal project, Almost Asian, Almost American—a project in which Asian American Women share their experiences about being Asian in America.
Stay in touch with Diana King
https://www.instagram.com/dianawking/
https://www.diana-king.com/
https://kevinandking.com/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina
Welcome to our first solo episode! And in this episode, our host, Martine Séverin talks of how much she’s grown since the beginning of year and since launching the podcast.
She shares a few tips and tools on how to gain clarity when wrestling with change and uncertainty. Plus, she shares lessons learned from our last 10 episodes 10! Cue the confetti, y’all!
Keep up with our host Martine Severin
IG @martine.severin
https://martineseverin.com/
Welcome back to to part 2 of our conversation with Danny Dunson. If you missed part 1, check out Episode 9.
Danny Dunson is an art historian, art advisor, curator and writer, Founder of the famed IG account LegacyBros and most recently co-founder and editor-in-chief of ArtX. Dunson graduated from The University of Illinois at Chicago, earning a B.A. in art history from the School of Art & Art History.
He is a 2016 Fulbright Grant recipient and Gilman Scholarship fellow. His research as an art historian has been primarily focused on figurative representations within African and African Diasporic Art. Dunson’s academic writing is situated within an interdisciplinary dialogue, engaging with intersections of critical and social theory, colonial and post colonial studies, gender and women's studies, and queer studies.
His writing has been published in exhibition catalogues, magazines and online journals. In June, 2017-18, Dunson presented, “In Memoriam: Portraits of the Middle Passage, in Situ,” a large scaled exhibition in the dungeons of Ghana’s Cape Coast Castle Museum, featuring art of the Ancestor Project, a visual art collective with Ghanaian artist, Kwame Akoto-Bamfo at the helm.
Dunson is currently conducting research that interrogates portraiture and figurative compositions aligned with space, place, memory, and the Middle Passage.
As editor-in-chief of ArtX, Dunson helps shine a light on a multitude of diverse voices in the world of art, especially those typically unheard.
Legacy Bros https://www.instagram.com/legacybros/
My grandaddy’s closet https://www.instagram.com/mygranddaddyscloset/
ArtX. https://artx.net/who-we-are/
Artists mentioned:
Toyin Ojih Odutola
Lynette Yiadom-Boakye
Michael Armitage
Kwame Akato Bamfo
Books: Art, Slavery, and the site of Blackness in Multicultural America by Huey Copeland
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Sula by Toni Morrison
Danny Dunson is an art historian, art advisor, curator and writer, Founder of the famed IG account LegacyBros and most recently co-founder and editor-in-chief of ArtX. Dunson graduated from The University of Illinois at Chicago, earning a B.A. in art history from the School of Art & Art History.
He is a 2016 Fulbright Grant recipient and Gilman Scholarship fellow. His research as an art historian has been primarily focused on figurative representations within African and African Diasporic Art. Dunson’s academic writing is situated within an interdisciplinary dialogue, engaging with intersections of critical and social theory, colonial and post-colonial studies, gender and women's studies, and queer studies.
His writing has been published in exhibition catalogs, magazines and online journals. In June, 2017-18, Dunson presented, “In Memoriam: Portraits of the Middle Passage, in Situ,” a large-scaled exhibition in the dungeons of Ghana’s Cape Coast Castle Museum, featuring art of the Ancestor Project, a visual art collective with Ghanaian artist, Kwame Akoto-Bamfo at the helm.
Dunson is currently conducting research that interrogates portraiture and figurative compositions aligned with space, place, memory, and the Middle Passage.
As editor-in-chief of ArtX, Dunson helps shine a light on a multitude of diverse voices in the world of art, especially those typically unheard.
Legacy Bros https://www.instagram.com/legacybros/
My grandaddy’s closet https://www.instagram.com/mygranddaddyscloset/
ArtX. https://artx.net/who-we-are/
Artists mentioned:
Toyin Ojih Odutola
Lynette Yiadom-Boakye
Michael Armitage
Kwame Akato Bamfo
Books: Art, Slavery, and the site of Blackness in Multicultural America by Huey Copeland
Sula by Toni Morrison
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Francely Plaza is a freelance makeup artist born and raised in Chicago. An artist at heart, she made the decision over 15 years ago to make the human face her canvas. Since then, working with makeup has become her expertise, and beauty her passion. Francely worked at Sephora for over 9 years as a Senior Makeup Artist where she was in charge of Sephora’s makeup artist team development. In that role, she taught and certified new makeup artists at a Sephora stores.
If you ever get the pleasure of working with Francely she is grace under fire. She has a calming quality that reinforces her mastery and knowledge of all things makeup and beauty products.
Books: Classic Beauty: The History of Makeup
https://www.amazon.com/Classic-Beauty-History-Gabriela-Hernandez/dp/0764353004
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/francely_makeup/
Website: https://www.francelymakeup.com/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina
My guest Susan J Chen is an award-winning photographer whose work bridges the commercial and fine art world. She uses a conceptual approach to fashion, portraits, things, and motion.
Her work has been described as cinematic, moody and emotionally charged with color and dark humor.
Susan was chosen by Saatchi Art as one of top 100 women artists in the world. Her work has been shown in NY, LA, SF, Minneapolis, Tokyo, Miami, and Cataluna, Spain.
Movies:
Keep up with Susan J Chen https://www.susanjchen.com/
https://www.instagram.com/susanjchen/
In the Mood for Love - Wong kar Wai
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown by Pedro Almodovar
https://www.saatchiart.com/all?query=susan%20j%20chen#
Andreas Endregaard is a photographer, videographer, digital marketer brand owner, and Korean bbq enthusiast.
Andreas went to Michigan State University for Marketing, before moving to Chicago to start his professional career.
A lover of all things fashion and sneaker-related, he wouldn’t be the creator he is now if it wasn’t for the dream of running a successful clothing brand.
Over his life, he’s tried several creative endeavors (DJing, sewing custom hats, making beats, and hosting events).
These endeavors led him to create films and photography. This sense of creation and the camera gave him a sense of purpose he didn’t know he was looking for.
Eventually, Dre would leave his corporate job to pursue photography and film full-time.
Book recommendations: Hey, Whipple, Squeeze This: The Classic Guide to Creating Great Ads Paperback – February 1, 2016
by Luke Sullivan & Edward Boches
Stay connected with Andreas:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/andreasendregaard/
Forever Grateful: https://www.forevergr4teful.com/
https://www.andreasendregaard.com/
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
https://www.instagram.com/martine.sev...
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Today on the show we have Chicago based potter, Danielle Chutinthranond of Monsoon Pottery.
Essentialism and minimalism are always on her mind when creating. To that end, she believes that the objects in our homes should be useful, durable, and beautiful. In service to these beliefs, all of her work is microwave, dishwasher, and even oven safe. Beautiful doesn’t have to be precious. Useful can still be romantic. Danielle specializes in ceramic dinnerware and housewares. She credits her inspiration to nature, classic Asian motifs, Chinatown, and—over everything else—restaurant and food culture.
She grew up in a Thai/Pacific rim restaurant in upstate New York and learned from a very young age that food is special, personal, and becomes even more meaningful when presented with care and attention to detail. Each piece Danielle makes is focused on enhancing the beauty and ritual of your table.
Monsoon Pottery: https://monsoonpottery.com/
Connect with Danielle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/monsoonpottery/
Book Recommendation: The Secret History by Donna Tartt
How to be an AntiRacist by Ibram X. Kendi
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Stay connected with Martine Séverin:
https://martineseverin.com/
On the podcast today, we’re chatting with photographer Thalia Gochez. When I first came across Thalia work, I gasped. She creates portraits of the womxn in her neighborhood in a tender yet commanding way. She arrests your attention to convey her love and respect for her subjects.
A print of Thalia’s work hangs proudly in my home. Each time I pass this image of two young women sitting on a stoop, I settle more securely into myself. I see more beauty in the world.
During our conversation, we talk about how Thalia centers herself in order to create work. We cover what she demands when taking a commission in order to create her special brand of magic. This episode is a masterclass in how to step into your power.
Book recommendation: All About Love: New Visions by Bell Hooks
Stay in touch with Thalia Gochez: https://www.instagram.com/thaliagochez/
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.
On today’s show, I’m pleased to welcome Nolis Anderson a Chicago-based portrait photographer.
I talk with Nolis about his journey from pharmacy school to becoming a successful photographer. We talk about how to navigate a new career, about learning how to learn and about how to stay top of mind clients in a low-key way. Enjoy!
Marc Laroche: https://larochemarc.com/
The Photographer’s Playbook: https://aperture.org/shop/the-photographer-s-playbook-books/
Profit First: https://www.amazon.com/Profit-First-Transform-Cash-Eating-Money-Making/dp/B06X15WW79/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=profit+first&qid=1586972891&rnid=2941120011&s=books&sr=1-2
South Facing Windows: https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/5cf49641e83cc6000fe2ba57
The Simple Good: http://www.thesimplegood.org/
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.
I'm excited to welcome writer, Roxanne Fequiere to the show. Roxanne's writing is witty, introspective and simply delightful. If she were a TV character, she definitely would be Rhoda of The Mary Tyler Moore Show! During our conversation, we discuss crafting relationships and a life of our choosing.
You can learn more about Roxanne and about her work here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxannefequiere/
Roxanne’s Website: https://roxannefequiere.com/
Roxanne’s wedding in Domino Magazine: https://www.domino.com/content/roxanne-fequiere-wedding/
Golly Magazine: https://www.instagram.com/gollymagazine/
Girls at Library: https://www.girlsatlibrary.com/interviews/roxanne-fequiere
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.
Welcome to This is How We Create!
My name is Martine Séverin, a commercial and lifestyle photographer based in Chicago IL. I’m so excited to record this intro episode to the This is How We Create show.
This is How We Create digs deeper into the creative life of contemporary artists of color. Discover what feeds their creativity and how they found (or are finding) their artistic voice. Through these intimate and candid conversations, you will gain insights into the lives of creative professionals that are hard to find anywhere else.
You can learn more about us at http://www.howwecreatepodcast.com/ or at https://www.instagram.com/martine.severin/
This is How We Create has been edited by Casandra Voltolina.