Born to Create

I’m super excited to bring you this episode with the incredible Electroblaze, aka Michael Bleser! 🎧 Electroblaze has been steeped in music since birth, thanks to his musical family. Starting out as a hip-hop artist under the alias “Mr. Blazer,” he soon took his passion for music on the road, mixing beats and cocktails as he traveled the world. 🌍 From freestyle rap sessions to discovering electronic music in Mallorca, and then diving deep into Hamburg’s underground scene, Electroblaze’s journey is as dynamic as his sound. We chat about how Berlin’s iconic club culture, including nights at Club Der Visionäre and Griessmühle, fueled his creativity and led him to fully immerse himself in music production with Ableton. Now the founder of his own label, Nesh Recordings, Electroblaze continues to push boundaries, collaborating with artists across the globe. 🎶 In this episode, we explore how simplicity, thinking outside the box, and embracing constant change have shaped his music and life. Whether you’re an artist or just love an inspiring story, this conversation will leave you ready to follow your creative passions. Don’t miss it! 🚀 https://linktr.ee/electroblaze https://www.beatport.com/artist/electroblaze/864005

In this episode, I sat down with the legendary Timo Maas, an influential DJ, producer, and Grammy nominee, to dive deep into his incredible journey through the world of music. Timo opens up about his early struggles, from growing up feeling like an outsider to discovering that music was his true language of expression. We talk about how music became not only his emotional outlet but also the driving force behind his success. Timo shares powerful insights into how he stayed true to his artistic vision, even when it meant going against trends or overcoming personal and professional obstacles. He also takes us behind the scenes of his Grammy-nominated project, explaining how setting big goals and then letting go of them allowed the creative process to flourish naturally. From his early influences to his passion for remixing, and from working with global artists to mentoring new talent, this conversation is full of wisdom for any aspiring artist or music lover. Whether you're looking for inspiration to push through your own challenges or want to understand how a true artist masters his craft, this episode is packed with the kind of stories and insights that can change the way you think about creativity. Don't miss out on hearing Timo's candid thoughts about how to overcome the odds, follow your passion, and transform your life through the language of music. Tune in for a conversation that will leave you inspired and ready to take your next bold step in your creative journey!

In this episode, I sit down with Rich Spicer, a multifaceted artist, writer, and self-described "creative survivalist." We delve into his journey of self-discovery, including his late diagnosis of autism, and how it transformed his understanding of his life and work. Rich shares the profound impact of this diagnosis on his art and personal narrative, exploring themes of masking, vulnerability, and the struggle to present authentic work to the world. We also discuss his experiences during the pandemic, how he used art as a means of survival, and his ongoing projects, including a book titled *The Treasure Within the Ruins*. Rich opens up about the challenges of translating deeply personal experiences into art, the tension between artistic expression and commercialization, and his views on the role of imperfection in art. This conversation is a deep dive into the creative process, identity, and the pursuit of authenticity.

In this captivating episode, join Maria Richters as she delves into a profound conversation with Elizabeth Mikellides, a distinguished fine art digital artist renowned for her unique fusion of music and visual art. Discover how Elizabeth translates complex musical scores into vibrant, original artworks, offering listeners a glimpse into her innovative process. As they explore the intricate relationship between music, creativity, and personal expression, Elizabeth shares insights into her journey as an artist and the profound impact of creativity on mental health and healing. Uncover the challenges and triumphs of balancing artistic authenticity with the demands of social media, as Elizabeth reflects on the evolving landscape of creativity in the digital age. From her experiences curating exhibitions to upcoming projects that promise to revolutionize the art scene, this episode offers a captivating insight into the mind of a visionary artist pushing the boundaries of artistic innovation. Tune in for an enriching conversation that celebrates the transformative power of creativity in all its forms. Details https://linkin.bio/elizabethmikellides/ @elizabethmikellides

Embark on a fascinating journey with Miguel and Iyvone as they share their profound insights into eco-art and sustainability in this captivating podcast episode. From their humble beginnings studying set design to their remarkable collaborations creating art from recycled materials, Miguel and Iyvone's passion for environmental stewardship shines through. Dive into their discovery of mycelium as an eco-friendly material, ignited by their experiences at Burning Man and driven by a commitment to finding sustainable alternatives to toxic substances. Explore their adventures in crafting intricate sculptures and immersive installations, seamlessly blending artistry with environmental consciousness.  Delve into the world of bioluminescence as Iyvone recounts her pioneering collaboration with scientists to capture the ethereal glow of plankton. Journey alongside them through the highs and lows of experimentation, learning invaluable lessons from failures and setbacks that ultimately fuel their creative process.  Discover their unwavering dedication to promoting environmental stewardship and mindfulness in all aspects of their art and lives. From advocating for sustainability to empowering others through workshops and education, Miguel and Iyvone are catalysts for change in the art world and beyond.  As they share their future plans, including an ambitious Burning Man piece that bridges cultures through mycelium, listeners are invited to ponder the profound intersections between art, nature, and humanity. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that celebrates creativity, sustainability, and the transformative power of art to shape a brighter, more conscious future. Tune in and be inspired to explore your own journey towards a more sustainable and artful existence. Details: https://www.iyvonekhoo.co.uk/linktree.com/wishingtotem @wishingtotem @iyvone_khoo

Meet Charlie Frances, the visionary behind Akta Photography. Through his lens, he's not just capturing headshots; he's capturing aspirations. Charlie created Akta Photography during the pandemic from his own London flat, realizing that some of his actor friends needed headshots. Little did he know that word of mouth alone would turn his side gig into a fully-fledged business including two studios in London and more talented photographers joining him to shoot over 1200 actors in 2 years! Driven by a thirst for understanding, Charlie spent two years engaging with industry leaders, refining Akta Photography's approach with insights from figures like Kharmel Cochrane and Amy Hubbard. He has also worked with big names such as RADA or Theatre Peckham. Charlie's mission is to help actors break into the elusive world of acting and support their journey every step of the way. In this podcast episode, host and founder of Akta Photography, Charlie, shares his inspiring journey from being an actor to establishing a successful photography company. Joined by the excitement of creativity, Charlie discusses the unique approach of Akta Photography, working with talented individuals in the theater and film industry. The episode delves into the essence of portrait photography, emphasizing the importance of capturing the depth and authenticity of the artist rather than simply showcasing their skills. Charlie narrates the unexpected beginnings of Akta Photography, including a transformative encounter with filmmaker J.J. Abrams. The discussion unfolds the company's Pay What You Can initiative, highlighting the commitment to making professional photography accessible to all, while also exploring the challenges and lessons learned along the way. Join the conversation on the significance of comfort and commitment in the creative process, offering valuable insights for both artists and entrepreneurs.

In this captivating episode, join Maria and Indy as they delve into the world of surreal art with the talented artist and psychiatric nurse, Indy Chung. Discover the intersection of spirituality and mental wellness in Indy's artwork as he shares his unique perspective on creativity. Uncover the inspiration behind his iconic "Faceless Man" series and learn how his journey in art intertwines with his experiences in the field of mental health. From creating thought-provoking pieces to the profound impact of gifting art to musicians like Black Coffee, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of art, introspection, and the human experience.

Dive into the world of art advisory with Guy Maximo, based in London, as he shares insights into his role and the nuances of working with private collectors. From decoding the distinctions among art buyers to exploring the factors influencing an artwork's future value, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the multifaceted realm of art curation and collecting. Join us for a conversation filled with valuable gems for both aspiring artists and art enthusiasts Gui Maximino is an Art Advisor with over 15 years of experience in the art market. Prior to founding his own business Minerva Art Advisory, Gui had a gallery in Brazil and moved to London where he worked for established galleries and briefly with provenance research and recovery of Stolen art.  He specialises in Modern and Contemporary Art and developed an international business with clients all over the world, offering a range of services that includes buying/selling, valuations, collection management and anything related to the arts.

Join Maria Richters in a soulful and insightful conversation with Dennis Bauer, also known as ButchVoyage, as they embark on a journey through the realms of music, mindfulness, and self-discovery. From Dennis's early encounters with music on stage to his profound experiences in Zen meditation, the duo delves into the essence of performing, the subtleties of feelings, and the intricate connection between music and mindfulness. Unpacking the layers of consciousness, they explore the concept of being present, the role of thoughts in shaping identity, and the transformative power of music. As Dennis shares his transition from a DJ duo to a solo artist, the conversation unfolds into a deep exploration of authenticity, aligning with one's true self, and the continuous evolution that defines our individual journeys. This episode is a captivating exploration of the rhythms that connect us to our authentic selves and the harmonies that resonate within the intricate tapestry of life.

With an unwavering mission to help others, Mark Sephton has broken into global markets assisting entrepreneurs from startups to million dollar company owners worldwide. When not working with clients, Mark’s love and knowledge for entrepreneurship is expressed and shared publicly as the Podcast Host for Brainz Magazine. When not on the mic, Mark is also a regular Contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine and a speaker for corporate events, entrepreneurship summits, and major conferences nationally and internationally. His personal and professional development expertise has positioned him as an expert in the industry, resulting in transformational experiences for audiences, clients, and businesses alike. Drawing from personal experiences, Mark has taken the essence of what he has experienced and built a business that helps draw out the magnificent self leadership potential that every person beholds. His unique GPS system helps identify blind spots, efficiencies, and deficiencies, and his personalized support helps individuals achieve their life and business goals. He is also the author of three personal development books, “Inside Job,” “Plot Twist,” and “Mark of a Man.” https://marksephton.com IG septhonmark

Valentine Svihalek is a Belgian and American abstract painter, international educator, podcast host, author, and mother of two. Passionate about education, connecting people and opportunities, Valentine founded the Art Connect Women's Collective and the Art Connect Society. After the birth of her first child in a Czech village surrounded by people who spoke a different language, she felt isolated. Supported by the Artist Residency In Motherhood Program, she developed a process of artmaking that liberates expressive energy and establishes connection. Graduate studies in philosophy and postgraduate studies in teaching, literacy, and culture in San Diego and mentorship with Multimedia Artist, Isadora Stowe provided the foundation for her work. Passionate about education and connecting people with opportunities, Valentine founded the Art Connect Women’s Collective (formerly Art Mums Europe) and the Art Connect Society. Inspired by her community work, she published Mama Meditations: The Imperfect Artist Mother Journey, Mindful Mantras, and The Bright Side: Affirmations For Overcoming as reflections on postpartum experience. She founded the Bella Valentina Artist Residency Program. Valentine has exhibited her abstract paintings and poetry in galleries in Europe, with the Jewish Museum Prague, Canadian BHA Gallery, curated solo and group exhibits. She’s been published in The Huts and Women United international art magazines. In 2022, she published Painting Our World, US: An Artist Diary, and was longlisted for the Women United Art Prize. She hosts the Art Sisters Podcasts and is a member of Spilt Milk Gallery, The Art Queens Society, Create Magazine, Artist-Mother Network, ARIM, Victory Art Gallery. https://bellavalentina.art https://linktr.ee/bellavalentinaart IG @bellavalentinaart

Kasia is a Polish-American artist creating intuitive, abstract artwork. In her work, she aims to create a space for others to connect with their feminine side beyond the ordinary experience. In honor of that connection, she founded Call2Love - ‘Fashion From the Heart’- a wearable art clothing line. Thy mission is to empower others from within by enhancing the connection with their own hearts. Kasia believes that clothes carry an energetic expression of oneself to the world. Being a symbolic choice of what we wear daily, they should remind us of our true nature and purpose. Call2Love Clothing embraces true feminine power by being present and receiving yourself first. That creates a direct connection to Beauty and a reminder for women of who they are. Kasia’s work is shared and exhibited in USA and Europe, and her art is in private collections in the US, Canada, the UK, Italy, and Poland. Web: www.call2love.com www.kasiamuzyka.com Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/call.2.love/ https://www.instagram.com/kasiamuzyka/

Ekaterina Popova is an award-winning artist born in Russia, known mostly for her original oil paintings of interiors. Ekaterina received a Bachelor's in Fine Art from Kutztown University in 2011 and, since then, has been exhibiting her work internationally. She is interested in expressive work exploring mood and emotion and is influenced by post-impressionism, fauvism, and magical realism, which has enabled her to examine the subject of home, place, belonging, and identity over the past decade. Her work has been exhibited internationally, including at Cohle Gallery in Paris and Menorca, The Painting Center in New York, James Oliver Gallery, Decorazon Gallery, Affordable Art Fair, Art Miami Fairs, The Trenton City Museum, Paradigm Gallery, Delaware Contemporary, The Boxheart Gallery, A.I.R. Gallery, and more. Popova has been featured in multiple blogs and publications, including Colossal, Beautiful Bizarre, American Art Collector, The Jealous Curator, DPI Magazine, Friend of The Artist, Iceview, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Ekaterina attended several residencies, including at Centre Pompadour in Abbeville, France, NES Residency in Iceland, the Skopelos Foundation for the Arts in Greece. She works out of her rustic factory studio at 1241 Carpenter Street Studios in Philadelphia. 'For the past few years, I have been exploring interiors in my work. The interest started as a way for me to reflect on my upbringing in Russia, but eventually progressed to exploring the overall idea of “home” and what it means me now. The work has slowly evolved from being reflective and sentimental to being mindful and present in my current environment. I repeatedly paint my own bedroom, visit other people’s houses, and use reference photos submitted to me by others online. My paintings include messy rooms, intimate items, and objects that refer to human presence without including the figure. I pick up on the subtle tones, lighting, and mood of each location to capture the emotion I associate with the space and then exaggerate the color to create a dream-like image.' https://linktr.ee/katerinaspopova IG @katerinaspopova IG @createmagazine https://www.katerinapopova.com

Artist and educator from Smoketown, Louisville, Kentucky. She is the Cofounder of @calliopearts studio and a teacher at @kcdschool Susanna Crum conducts research-led projects that investigate maps and printed ephemera as social artifacts at the intersection of the past, present, and future. With cyanotype, lithography, video, and sculpture, she merges digital and analog technologies and emphasizes print media’s roles in maintaining relationships – and erasures – between people and place. Her multilayered images combine community-based research with archival materials like letters, maps, newspapers, and oral histories and propose an interpretation of a place in which past and present are concurrent and vital. Susanna received her MFA and MA in Printmaking with minors in Sculpture and Intermedia from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, and her BFA from the College of Architecture, Art and Planning at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY. Her work has been featured in international and national exhibitions at venues such as Museu do Douro in Portugal, Nicole Longnecker Gallery in Houston, 1078 Gallery in Chico, Manifest Creative Research Gallery and Drawing Center in Cincinnati, the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft in Louisville, and the Liu Haisu Art Museum in Shanghai, China. Recent artist residencies include Frontera: Together Apart, Proyecto'ace, Buenos Aires, Argentina (remote residency); Kunstnarhuset Messen, Ålvik, Norway; Mildred's Lane, Beach Lake, PA; Edinburgh Printmakers, Edinburgh, Scotland; and Kala Art Institute, Berkeley, CA. Susanna is cofounder and Associate Director of Calliope Arts, a a shared workspace that supports artists working in print media. She and fellow artist Rodolfo Salgado manage an urban live/work property built in 1885 that includes their residence, Calliope's studio, a wet plate collodion photography studio, and a large kitchen garden. Susanna teaches visual art at Kentucky Country Day and leads workshops at universities and arts organizations across the US. In recent years, she was President of Mid America Print Council and Associate Professor at Indiana University Southeast, New Albany, IN. https://www.susanna-crum.com @susannacrum@calliopearts  @kcdschool

Cindy is a Coach and Creator of the Art and Self Podcast, an Art Class Curator & founder of the Art Connection Circle. Cindy Ingram is on a mission to bring the power of art connections to the masses. With more than 20 years of experience in art museums and classrooms, Cindy started Art Class Curator in 2014. Then she launched the Curated Connections Library to share how to creatively teach art education in a way that supports critical learning skills and sparks lifelong art connections. Cindy is passionate about taking art out of dark, stuffy lecture halls and out of the pretentious gatekeeping of “fine art” and into the hearts, minds, and lives of everyone. Cindy delights in all things science, philosophy, art, and psychology and in being unironically excited about thoughts, ideas, and feelings. In Art and Self, Cindy combines her art and teaching expertise with her obsession with philosophy, personal development, and coaching to create a unique take on both how to engage with art and how to use art as a tool for self-discovery, clarity and action. Connect with Cindy Ingram https://linktr.ee/artandself https://www.instagram.com/cindyneedsart/

Camille Myles is a French-Canadian multi-disciplinary contemporary artist and conservation activist exploring imagery that is grounded in our identity and reflects our impacts on the environment. Working in public art, painting, sculpture and installation, she creates art that tells a story linked to community connection, self-reflection, and the restorative effects of nature.   She received her BFA in Sculpture & Installation at Ottawa University and her MA in Heritage Conservation at Carleton University. Marrying her passion for conservation and art, she has worked as an archaeologist in artist-run centres, the National Art Gallery in Ottawa, ICCROM in Rome, Canada’s National Trust and was a Park Superintendent at Parks Canada. Myles has exhibited extensively including Quest Art Gallery, Ottawa Art Gallery, BHA Gallery, Arts Mums United, Visionary Art Collective, Arts to Hearts Project, PxP Contemporary, Ottawa Art Gallery, Gallery 115, among others. In 2022, she was invited in 2022 to join the International Broken Forests Art Collective. She was awarded an art residency in June 2022 at Studio H Canada in Victoria BC where she developed her new painting collection of “Crying Landscapes” - a plea for change as well as “I Stand Alone” an interactive drawing installation which has been exhibited at Quest Art Gallery in August-Sept 2022.   Being drawn to the power of public art as a social community conversation, the artist has been creating murals and large-scale public art sculptures in Midland and in Penetanguishene. Her work has been featured by the Art Seen Magazine, Jealous Curator, Toronto Star, Create! Magazine, Visionary Art Collective, Arts to Hearts Project, Women United in Art Magazine and podcasts, including Arts Mums United, Hot Mess to Awesomeness & CFRH. She won the Diamond Jubilee Medal and was a Canadian RBC New Painting Competition finalist. She’s a founding artist member of the Art Queens and The Works by Erika B Hess from I like your Work. Originally from Gatineau, Quebec, she now lives along the shores of Georgian Bay, in Tiny Ontario with her husband and three young children. https://linktr.ee/camillemylesart Camillemylesart

Olga Permiakova is a Ukrainian-Dutch visual artist based in Amsterdam who graduated from Gerrit Rietveld academy in 2018. Her work is characterized by a multi-layered approach, which deconstructs reality and reframes it in new and unexpected ways. Using digital manipulation and collage techniques, Olga creates visual illusions that challenge viewers' perceptions and expectations. Her creative process starts with theoretical and material research, leading her to explore themes such as war, national identity, sustainability, memory, and mental health. Olga uses her work to explore and comment on these ideas, ranging from personal experiences to broader social issues. With a background in physical science, Olga incorporates experimental materials and techniques into her work, playing with different forms and textures to create pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and conceptually engaging. Her use of color and playfulness invites viewers into a deeper exploration of serious topics, ultimately hoping to resonate with viewers on a personal level while addressing broader themes and issues. Olga Permiakova has participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions. She also was selected as Photographer in Residence at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA). Her work has been recognized with several awards, including The Reclaim Award and GUP New 2020 Award, and has been featured in publications such as Het Parool, NZZ am Sonntag, and Das Magazin. In this interview we talk about the message her art is bringing to the world, especially based on the war in the Ukraine. She has already educated people around the world before February 2022, when her art and message finally received the attention which made her be confronted with mixed emotions. She gives insight into ukrainian women soldiers and shares some untalked about insights she has received from interviewing women at war in ukraine for the research of her art to make bigger impact and education to the world on this topic. http://www.olgapermiakova.com/index.php/biography/ @olga_permiakova

Louise Fletcher is an Abstract landscape artist with a passion for Yorkshire Moors; she is also the co-host for Art Juice and the Founder of the ‘Find Your Joy’ program, and the host and founder of the artist community ‘Art Tribe.’For Louise, ‘self-expression means allowing her hands to translate emotions into marks on a surface...building up the layers until the painting becomes a portal where you and I connect on a soulful and intimate level.’ Apart from being a practicing artist with much visible success, Lousie is on a mission to help you explore your rich inner world through fearless art. ‘Growing up in Yorkshire, my time was split between exploring the great outdoors and making art. Early on, I knew I wanted to continue pursuing my passion, leading me to study art in college. In my 20s, I moved from England to North America and left art behind. At the time, I thought I'd “grown up,” but now I understand that leaving my home somehow disconnected me from myself as I struggled to adapt and fit into new cultures first Canada and then US In our conversation, Louise and I dove into the expression of her work, letting the process lead the way and re-align to oneself and one’s own way of working, as well as much more about how she has found her way to her art again after a while of ‘losing’ the connection to it, and then, how she created her business and really found her voice with her work. Check her out on her socials, here are all her links: https://www.louisefletcherart.com/linkslouisefletcher_art

Marine is an advocate for artists since a young age; Marine Tanguy managed her first gallery at age 21 under Steve Lazarides, who discovered Banksy and JR and opened her first art gallery in Los Angeles at age 23 where she was lucky to be mentored by Michael Ovitz himself. After seeing the restrictiveness of the traditional gallery model, Marine launched MTArt Agency in 2015 to build the reputations of the most incredible artists and to inspire everyone with their art. She felt that the art world was too traditional in managing its talents and that the visual sector - that is, the urban realm, advertising sector and digital world - were poorly leveraged by visual arts professionals. MTArt Agency was born. Fast forward to today – MTArt Agency is a certified B Corp® award-winning talent agency is worth £35 million and is the art sector's leading talent agency representing some of the most talented, forward-thinking artists in the world, working with global organisations and cities, and nurturing its international community of art-lovers and collectors. Marine was awarded Forbes 2018 30 under 30 Europe: Art & Culture, UK entrepreneur of the year for the 2019 NatWest Awards and Woman of the Year 2021 by the magazine WOTC. She is a writer and keynote speaker on contemporary art and art investment. Her talks include two TEDx Talks on how to transform cities with art and how social media visuals affect our minds. Marine believes that art should be accessible to everyone, everywhere “art is not a luxury but an essential, and that is why you are passionate about democratizing art. “ Instagram marinetanguyart Website https://mtart.agency/ LN https://www.linkedin.com/in/marine-tanguy-303b4a103/ FB https://www.facebook.com/mtartagency/ Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKaoMNR4638cTAsEXAs0T3Q

Jillian is an AUSTRALIAN ARTIST in London, a PODCASTER @artfictionspodcast an occasional ART WRITER. Her art practice brings stillness to the fractured process of perceiving what is present: a circumstance constantly in flux. Stretching from stories and landscape to philosophy and biology, she directs her research toward historical and contemporary ideas of origins, lineage, and place, as well as the connections between these. She attempts to describe the paradoxical relationship between rationality, memory, body, context, and experimentation. This is underscored by the complicated familial history she experienced growing up in Australia. Jillian mostly creates minimal, abstract paintings, which convey an interplay between foreground and background to confuse where the image began, its process of development, and the location of its final brushstrokes. The work is derived by layering one production method over another so that the resulting image mimics layers in editing software as if they could be separated and reconfigured. Taking their cue from the structures of modernist language,  compositions often conflate a formalist approach with its direct opposite, such as minute detail, patterning, or mark-making governed by body movements. The result asserts and undermines the painting’s otherwise idealistic, singular simplicity. These artistic inquiries extend to art writing and podcast discussions to explore imagery's complex fluidity. Instagram jillianknipestudio Website http://www.jillianknipe.com/ Podcast https://linktr.ee/artfictionspodcast