AART

Every career has a beginning, and every creative journey is shaped by moments of curiosity, courage, and unexpected opportunity. 

In this episode of AART host Chris Stafford sits down with American cinematographer Sharra Romany for a thoughtful conversation about the experiences that led her behind the camera and the people, places, and moments that have influenced her career. Rather than focusing on the technical side of filmmaking, Chris explores the personal story behind the artist. Sharra reflects on her early interests, the decisions that shaped her professional path, the challenges she has fa...

On this episode of AART,  Chris welcomes Australian-born classical realist painter Hannah Sutton, whose artistic journey has taken her from her family's farm near Melbourne to the heart of Florence, Italy—the birthplace of the Renaissance. Working in one of the world's most influential artistic cities, Hannah has immersed herself in the centuries-old traditions of drawing and painting, embracing the discipline, craftsmanship, and technical excellence that define Classical Realism.  In this engaging conversation, Hannah shares why she chose to dedicate her career to mastering traditional painting techniques in an age dominated by contemporary art. 

Chris and Hannah explore what...

On this episode,  Chris welcomes acclaimed American abstract artist Galen Cheney for an insightful conversation about creativity, artistic exploration, and the evolving language of contemporary abstract painting. Known for her vibrant, expressive works and fearless approach to experimentation, Galen Cheney has built a distinguished career creating paintings that balance intuition, movement, color, and emotion. Her work invites viewers into a visual dialogue where meaning emerges through process, gesture, and personal interpretation rather than representation alone.
In this engaging discussion, Galen shares her artistic journey, the experiences that shaped her creative voice, and how abstraction allows her to explore ideas t...

In this episode of AART, host Chris Stafford sits down with National Geographic Explorer photographer Mackenzie Calle to discuss the powerful intersection of art and storytelling. Through her lens, Mackenzie captures extraordinary images that not only reveal the beauty of the natural world but also help raise awareness about critical conservation challenges facing our ecosystems. 
Mackenzie shares her journey into photography, the experiences that shaped her career, and how visual storytelling can influence public understanding of our world.  

Throughout the conversation, Chris and Mackenzie explore the responsibility of photographers working in fragile environments, the importance of authentic st...

June Stratton is an American representational figurative painter known for her work capturing the human form with clarity, discipline, and emotional depth.  In this episode of the AART Podcast,  Chris speaks with June Stratton about her career in figurative painting, her studio practice, and how she approaches realism in contemporary art.

This conversation covers:
How June Stratton became a figurative artistHer approach to painting the human figure and working from observationThe role of light, composition, and gesture in representational artBalancing technical precision with intuition in paintingWhat it takes to sustain a career as a contemporary realist painterChris’ sign...

In this episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with renowned American digital collage artist Maggie Taylor, whose dreamlike, surreal imagery has redefined the boundaries between photography, technology, and fine art.

Known for her pioneering work in digital collage, Maggie Taylor creates richly layered visual narratives that blend 19th-century photographic elements with contemporary digital tools. Her work invites viewers into imaginative, often whimsical worlds—where memory, symbolism, and storytelling converge in unexpected ways. In this intimate and insightful conversation, Maggie shares how she discovered her distinctive artistic voice, her tra...

In this compelling episode, host Chris Stafford welcomes German cinematographer Bebe Dierken for an intimate and revealing conversation about the art and emotional power of visual storytelling. 
Known for Dangerous Truth, Sexy Beast, Midas Man, Bridgerton with her distinctive visual language and ability to translate narrative into striking imagery, Bebe Dierken has built a career behind the camera shaping stories through light, composition, and movement. In this episode, she shares her journey into cinematography, the creative influences that shaped her eye, and the challenges and rewards of working in a field where technical precision meets ar...

In this fascinating episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with British illuminator Thea Gould to explore the intricate and fascinating world of illumination—an ancient art form that continues to inspire modern creativity. Known for her meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to preserving traditional techniques, Thea Gould shares the story behind her artistic journey, from discovering her passion for illuminated manuscripts to building a career rooted in patience, precision, and storytelling through gold, pigment, and light. 

Listeners will gain insight into what it truly means to be an illuminator in today’s art landscape, how histo...

In this compelling episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed American author and art historian Donna Seaman to explore her extraordinary life and career at the intersection of visual art and literature. Known for her deeply insightful writing and influential voice in the art world, Donna shares her journey from an early passion for books and storytelling to becoming a respected critic, editor, and advocate for artists. The conversation delves into her work as a longtime contributor to Booklist, her role in shaping conversations around contemporary art, and her celebrated books that illuminate the emotional...

In this episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed American trompe l’oeil painter Natalie Featherston, a Charlotte, North Carolina–based artist known for her extraordinary ability to create hyper-realistic paintings that challenge the viewer’s perception of reality. Natalie specializes in the centuries-old technique of trompe l’oeil, a style of painting designed to “deceive the eye” by creating the illusion of three-dimensional objects on a flat surface. Through meticulous observation, careful composition, and masterful control of light, texture, and detail, her work blurs the boundary between painting and reality.

During this in-depth con...

In this episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with Canadian hyperrealism artist Erin Rothstein for an in-depth conversation about her artistic journey, creative process, and the discipline behind creating incredibly lifelike works of art. Known for her strikingly detailed paintings that blur the line between photography and painting, Rothstein has built a reputation as a leading voice in contemporary hyperrealism.

Erin Rothstein’s work captures everyday subjects with extraordinary precision, transforming ordinary moments into visually powerful pieces that challenge viewers to reconsider how they see the world. Through car...

In this fascinating episode host Chris explores a very different art form when she meets American concrete artist Liz Nichols for a biographical conversation that explores her life, her career in the trades, and creative evolution. From transforming one of the most industrial materials in the world into expressive, tactile works of art, Liz Nichols has carved out a unique space within contemporary American art. From her early influences and formative years to the pivotal moments that shaped her artistic voice, Liz shares how she found her medium in concrete — a material traditionally associated with construction, strength, and permanence — and reima...

In this powerful and intimate episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with Austrian contemporary artist Katherina Olschbaur for a biographical conversation about her life, creative evolution, and the emotional force behind her large-scale figurative paintings. Known for her psychologically charged works that blur the boundaries between vulnerability and strength, Olschbaur has established herself as a compelling voice in contemporary European painting. Born in Austria, living in New York and now exhibiting internationally, Katherina Olschbaur creates raw, dreamlike compositions that explore identity, human connection, power, intimacy, and the subconscious. Her paintings often depict intertwined figures suspended in a...

In this episode of the AART, host Chris Stafford sits down with American film and television professional Nica Fazio for an honest, wide-ranging biographical conversation about her life, career, and personal journey working behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. Rather than focusing on technical details, this episode explores the human story behind a career spent on set—how Nica found her way into film and television, what drew her to the work, and how years in the industry shaped her identity, resilience, and outlook on life.Nica shares reflections on growing up, discovering cre...

In this intimate and reflective episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with American color pencil artist Megan Seiter for a deeply personal conversation about life, creativity, and the quiet dedication behind her work. Known for her richly layered drawings and extraordinary attention to detail, Seiter shares the story of how she found her voice as an artist—and why patience, persistence, and curiosity continue to shape her practice. Rather than focusing on technique, this biographical episode explores who Megan Seiter is as an artist and a person. She talks openly about her early influences, the moments th...

In this deeply personal episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed American film editor Jazzy Kettenacker for an intimate conversation about life, identity, and a career shaped by storytelling. Rather than focusing on technical process, this episode explores the human journey behind the edit — the experiences, values, and turning points that have defined Jazzy’s path in film and beyond. Jazzy Kettenacker reflects on growing up with a creative instinct, discovering film as a way to make sense of the world, and how editing became not just a profession but a way of thinking and livi...

In this deeply personal and wide-ranging episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed South African production designer Sabrina Linder for an intimate biographical conversation about life, creativity, and the winding path that leads to a career in film. Rather than focusing on technical process, this episode explores the human story behind the work. Sabrina Linder reflects on growing up in South Africa, the formative experiences that shaped her artistic sensibility, and how curiosity, resilience, and observation guided her toward a life in visual storytelling. From early influences and cultural identity to the emotional intelligence required...

On this inspiring episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed painter and author Kami Mendlik, whose work is celebrated for its vivid portrayal of nature, her masterful study of color, and her ability to capture the ever-shifting qualities of light and movement. Known for her immersive landscapes and her deeply intuitive approach to plein air painting, Kami shares how a lifelong connection to the outdoors has shaped her artistic vision and creative process. She dives into how color theory, environmental observation, and emotional resonance come together in her paintings—an...

Step behind the camera with Mia Cioffi Henry, a visionary cinematographer and filmmaker whose work explores the art of visual storytelling with depth, emotion, and purpose. In this episode, Mia shares her journey through the world of independent cinema, her creative process on set, and how she uses light, movement, and perspective to bring powerful stories to life. Discover insights on cinematography, directing, collaboration, visual language, and the future of filmmaking — straight from one of today’s most thoughtful visual artists. Whether you’re a filmmaker, creative professional, film student, or movie lover, this conversation will inspire you to see storyt...

Step inside the creative universe of Lorrie Minicozzi, an award-winning multi-media installation artist known for transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary, sensory experiences. In this episode, we explore how Lorrie blends sound, light, sculpture, video, and storytelling to create immersive art installations that challenge perception and invite deep emotional connection. Discover the inspiration behind her most ambitious projects, her creative process from concept to completion, and how technology and emotion intersect in her evolving body of work. Whether you’re an artist, curator, art collector, or creative dreamer, this conversation will leave you inspired to see art — and the world — in a new...

Step behind the camera with Ellen Kuras, the award-winning director and cinematographer whose visual storytelling has defined a generation of modern cinema. From her groundbreaking cinematography in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) to her powerful directorial work in Lee (2024), Ellen has redefined what it means to tell stories through light, emotion, and movement. In this in-depth conversation, Ellen shares her creative process, challenges as one of the first women in major cinematography, and her approach to capturing the soul of a story on screen. Whether you’re a filmmaker, cinephile, or curious creative, this episode delivers rare insights into th...

Discover the captivating world of Anna Carll, a celebrated contemporary mixed-media artist whose work transcends the boundaries of paint, paper, and emotion. In this episode, we explore how Anna transforms layers of texture, collage, and color into thought-provoking visual narratives that connect deeply with modern audiences. From her early inspirations to her evolving creative process, Anna shares insights into the techniques behind her abstract art, the emotional language of materials, and the stories hidden within every layer of her compositions. Whether you’re an art collector, creative professional, or simply passionate about contemporary art, this conversation offers inspiration and a be...

Step into the vibrant world of Sophie Kipner, acclaimed figurative abstract painter and writer, whose bold creativity challenges the boundaries between art and storytelling. In this exclusive interview, Sophie shares her journey from canvas to page—exploring how emotion, intuition, and curiosity shape her artistic process. We talk about how she developed her distinctive style, the intersection of visual art and writing, and what it means to truly see beyond the surface. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or simply a lover of creative expression, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your own imagination and break the rules that hold...

Step behind the camera with Ghitta Larsen, an accomplished cinematographer and Steadicam operator, as she shares her journey through the world of film, movement, and storytelling. In this exclusive interview, Ghitta opens up about her path into cinematography, the craft of Steadicam operation, and what it takes to create visually powerful, emotionally resonant images on screen.

🎥 From on-set challenges to creative breakthroughs, Ghitta discusses:
Her evolution as a female cinematographer in a fast-paced industryHow Steadicam techniques bring energy and emotion to every frameThe collaboration between directors, DPs, and camera crewsHer insights on visual storytelling, lighting, and camera mov...

Step behind the camera in this intimate and inspiring interview with Barbara Nitke, acclaimed photographer and visual storyteller celebrated for her raw, emotional, and boundary-pushing work. In this episode, we explore Barbara’s creative journey—from her early days as a set photographer on film productions to becoming one of the most influential voices in fine art and human connection photography. Barbara opens up about her artistic process, the stories behind her most powerful images, and how she’s used her lens to challenge taboos and celebrate authenticity. Listeners will discover:How Barbara Nitke captures intimacy, vulnerability, and truth through photog...

Step inside the creative world of Hannah Polskin, the multidisciplinary artist known for her iconic abstract curves, fluid line work, and a design philosophy that blurs the boundaries between fine art, furniture, and form. In this intimate interview, Hannah opens up about her artistic evolution, the energy behind her shapes, and how she’s built a thriving career that bridges painting, sculpture, and interior design. From her early influences to her bold leap into large-scale commissions and collaborations, Hannah shares the personal stories, struggles, and inspirations that shape her creative practice. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or creative thinker, this...

Step inside the mind and heart of Jana Ireijo, a celebrated muralist, painter, and public artist whose large-scale works transform walls into stories of resilience, community, and identity. In this intimate and introspective interview, Jana opens up about her creative process, the emotional layers behind her murals, and how she finds purpose through art that lives beyond the gallery. From her early inspirations to the challenges of creating in public spaces, Jana shares insights on creativity, self-expression, and the courage it takes to make art that speaks to others. Whether you’re an artist, creative thinker, or simply someone seeking in...

Step behind the camera and into the creative heart of acclaimed cinematographer Annemarie Lean-Vercoe in this introspective and inspiring interview. Known for her evocative storytelling and striking visual style, Annemarie opens up about the emotional depth behind her work, her path into cinematography, and how she captures human stories through light, movement, and perspective. In this personal conversation, we explore the craft, the challenges, and the quiet power of visual storytelling. Annemarie shares insights from her journey across film and television, the moments that shaped her artistic vision, and how intuition and collaboration guide her on set. Whether you’re a...

Jana Ireijo is an Hawaii born muralist whose passion as a conservation artist is born out of a love of art that started at a very young age. Jana creates vanishing murals using charcoal gathered from areas recently affected by wildfires.  This material, formed by the heat of the flames, carries the story of destruction and renewal that is intrinsic to the natural world.  She says her art is a reflection of the transience and impermanence of life and nature. Born in Honolulu in 1968, Jana has spent most of her life in transit leaving the island for California, before attending gr...

Step inside the mind and creative world of Catalina Gómez Beuth, an internationally recognized fine artist whose evocative works explore emotion, memory, and the human experience. In this introspective interview, Catalina opens up about her artistic journey, her connection to color, form, and intuition, and how her personal evolution shapes the way she sees and creates. 🎧 Join us as we talk about:
The emotional layers behind Catalina’s most powerful worksHow she finds meaning and mindfulness in the creative processThe intersection of culture, identity, and artHer path from early inspiration to international exhibitionsHow art can become a tool for he...

Step behind the lights and into the heart of Hollywood with Farah Bunch, one of the industry’s most sought-after celebrity makeup artists. In this intimate and introspective interview, Farah opens up about her creative journey, the art of transformation, and what it really means to bring characters — and people — to life on and off camera. From red carpet secrets to the emotional side of beauty, this episode dives deep into Farah’s early inspirations, career-defining moments, and the lessons she’s learned working behind the scenes in film, television, and fashion. Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast, aspiring artist, or simply so...

In this inspiring and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Leanne Johnson — an award-winning actor, filmmaker, and creative visionary — to explore the heart and hustle behind a life in storytelling. From her early beginnings in acting to her bold transition behind the camera, Leanne opens up about the realities of the film industry, the creative process, and what it truly means to find your voice through art. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, filmmaker, or simply someone chasing your own creative dreams, this honest and introspective conversation will leave you feeling motivated, grounded, and creatively recharged.

🎧 Tune in to hea...

In this captivating episode, we sit down with Sarah Hickey, one of Australia’s most introspective and emotionally resonant painters. Known for her luminous portraits and dreamlike compositions, Sarah takes us behind the brush to share her creative process, artistic philosophy, and how intuition guides her every stroke. From exploring themes of feminine energy, memory, and emotional truth, to balancing art, family, and purpose, this heartfelt conversation reveals the layers of an artist who paints not just what she sees — but what she feels.

✨ Listen if you love:Art, creativity, and storytellingDeep, meaningful conversations with artistsContemporary Australian art and cu...

In this episode, we sit down with Kim Casebeer, an acclaimed American landscape painter celebrated for her luminous portrayals of the Great Plains, open skies, and natural light. Kim shares her personal journey from growing up in Kansas to becoming one of the leading voices in contemporary American landscape art. We explore how she captures the quiet beauty of the land, the emotional connection between artist and environment, and the meditative process behind her plein air and studio paintings. This is more than a conversation about art — it’s an introspective look at creativity, simplicity, and finding meaning in nature. Whet...

Step behind the camera and into the creative mind of Theresa Vitale — Director of Photography, Cinematographer, and camera operator — as she opens up about the art, emotion, and technical mastery behind visual storytelling. In this in-depth interview, Theresa shares her journey from discovering her passion for cinematography to working on set, shaping light and shadow to bring stories to life. We explore what it means to lead a camera team, the challenges of breaking into the film industry, and the balance between creativity and precision in filmmaking. Whether you're a filmmaker, student, or cinephile, this episode offers rare insight into the...

Step into the vibrant, textured world of Alison Holt, one of Britain’s most celebrated textile artists, whose breathtaking embroidered landscapes blur the line between painting and stitchwork. In this deeply introspective interview, Alison opens up about her creative process, her lifelong connection to nature and color, and how she transforms threads into emotion and movement. We explore her artistic journey, from early inspirations and challenges to the meditative rhythm of stitching that defines her signature style. Listeners will discover how Alison uses free-motion embroidery to capture the essence of light, water, and landscape, and why textile art continues to in...

The English textile artist Alison Holt uses her imagination to capture landscapes and nature and then weave them into colorful canvases that are often taken for paintings. Alison says: 'Each piece is a combination of silk painting and freehand machine stitching. The painting creates depth, perspective and richness to the work and combines effectively with stitch to give detail and texture.’ Her work can be found in private collections around the world and in galleries from London to Sydney.  Alison was born in Oswestry, Shropshire in 1956, the youngest of two girls, to Cyril and Brenda Holt who were garage proprietors. Her...

Step behind the scenes of food and beverage magic with Chriscilla Browning, one of today’s most innovative Food & Beverage Stylists. In this intimate and inspiring interview, Chriscilla opens up about her creative process, career journey, and the artistic balance between food, photography, and storytelling. Whether she’s crafting mouthwatering visuals for global brands or elevating the ordinary into edible art, Chriscilla shares how she transforms simple ingredients into stunning imagery that captures both flavor and emotion.

Join us as we explore:
🍽️ How food styling bridges art, culture, and emotion
🎨 The creative techniques behind irresistible visuals
💡 Chris...

Step inside the world of Frances Featherstone, an acclaimed figurative fine artist whose evocative paintings capture the emotional depth and beauty of the human form. In this intimate interview, Frances opens up about her creative journey, the stories behind her art, and the transformative power of painting emotion onto canvas. We explore how she translates feeling into form, the inspiration behind her most powerful works, and the challenges of staying authentic in today’s art world. Whether you’re an art lover, a creative soul, or simply someone seeking insight into the mind of an artist, this episode will leave you...

Step into the frozen silence of the Arctic through the lens of Esther Horvath, award-winning polar photographer and visual storyteller for National Geographic and the Alfred Wegener Institute. In this deeply introspective interview, Esther shares the emotional and physical challenges of documenting life at the ends of the Earth — from the fragility of polar ecosystems to the resilience of the scientists who study them. We explore what drives her to capture some of the most remote and hauntingly beautiful places on the planet, how her work raises awareness about climate change, and what it means to find purpose in extreme is...