This is How We Create

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 passionCrafting a signature style: Learn how he developed his unique aestheticClient whisperer: Uncover Byron's foolproof formula for decoding client desiresPushing boundaries: Why calculated risks are the secret sauce in Byron's designsThe '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 creativityHow to create authentic, inclusive charactersThe realities of pitching diverse content to major studiosBalancing 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: imjoshualeonardBuy 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/