Artifice

Amber Dunford is a former mental health clinician turned interior designer and one of only a handful of “design psychologists” with expertise in the connection between space design and mental health. She spent years in private practice as a therapist before merging her passions for design and psychology by developing a college course on the relationship between the two. She believes there is a powerful, and often underrated, correlation between our mental wellbeing and the spaces we inhabit. Today, Amber is a co-founder and interior designer at B&A Creative, a Salt Lake City based design firm. She also offers design psychology sessions to anyone looking for ways to enhance their emotional wellbeing through design. https://www.amberdunforddesigns.com/

Robert Monroe graduated with a B.A. in Theater Arts from the State University of New York/Oswego. For twelve years, he worked as a New York casting director and talent executive. His credits include projects with the Walt Disney Company, the John Houseman Theater, the Annual MDA Telethon, and the now-defunct United Paramount Network. At the beginning of the millennium, he moved to Portland, Maine, to pursue a career as a photographer. His exhibitions include the Biennial at the Portland Museum of Art, Photographing Maine: Ten Years Later at the Center for Maine Contemporary Art, and Return to Peyton Place: Photographs by Robert Monroe at the Mohawk Valley Center for the Arts. He is a founding member of the Bakery Photographic Collective.

Pat Partridge writes across genres. He is the author of the mystery Fragile Memories, the sequel Buried at Bears Ears, and the humorous road-trip novel Fast on Fifty. His book of political humor, now in its third edition, has sold over 70,000 copies. Partridge’s short stories span a wide range of styles, characters, ages, and themes. All were written in the past 3+ years. Two humorous ones—The Buddy Saga and The Porch Thief—and several ones with more serious themes—If You Could Forget One Thing, Visiting Helen, The New Dress, and The Break Out—have been published in Remington Review, The Haven, Ariel Chart, Fabula Argentea, and Litro, as well as anthologies. Over the past three years, Partridge has won eleven awards in the League of Utah Writers annual contests—seven awards for short fiction and four for novel first chapters, with four stories included in the League’s “Best Of” anthologies. In 2024 his short story The New Dress won the Emerald Award for best short work across all formats. Partridge still has trouble understanding why he writes, but he is pleased others enjoy his writing.

Callie Crofts is the founder, songwriter and front-human for SLC’s edgy electropop phenom Die Shiny. A small-town Idaho native, Crofts has spent the last decade making ripples in Utah’s underground music scene - becoming established in recent years as a local ex-mormon, queer and feminist icon. Known for unwavering authenticity and lyrical activism, the experienced artist boasts a diverse songwriting career - complete with top-ten billboard charting tracks, film festival wins, and a huge catalog spanning multiple genres. Links: https://dieshiny.com https://youtube.com/dieshiny https://instagram.com/dieshiny https://facebook.com/dieshiny Streaming: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/067vD9pRfJHbjnlwSSwexw?si=FX4vvPflSGioj55ennJOdg Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/die-shiny/1476018766

Callie Crofts is the founder, songwriter and front-human for SLC’s edgy electropop phenom Die Shiny. A small-town Idaho native, Crofts has spent the last decade making ripples in Utah’s underground music scene - becoming established in recent years as a local ex-mormon, queer and feminist icon. Known for unwavering authenticity and lyrical activism, the experienced artist boasts a diverse songwriting career - complete with top-ten billboard charting tracks, film festival wins, and a huge catalog spanning multiple genres. Links: https://dieshiny.com https://youtube.com/dieshiny https://instagram.com/dieshiny https://facebook.com/dieshiny Streaming: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/067vD9pRfJHbjnlwSSwexw?si=FX4vvPflSGioj55ennJOdg Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/die-shiny/1476018766

As a multi-generational artist, Sara was immersed in the culture of fine art since her birth in West Jordan, Utah. Sara is a dedicated and tireless mother to seven children, six boys and one girl. While studying for her MFA at the Academy of Art University Sara gave birth to four children. Sara’s approach to art is best described in her own words: STOP … and Smell the Flowers Living life to the fullest is really about enjoying each moment and it is the simple things that make life wonderful. We live in such a fast-paced, technological world and our days are so filled with endless busy-ness, that it is hard to really stop what we are doing and have meaningful experiences. One thing that I have loved, is being able to take time out of my hectic life to create art. I have also found a great personal connection to the idea of stopping. We have to stop to see or smell a flower, to look at the clouds, to pray, and think about a higher power, to be in tune with the desires of our hearts and the inspiration we are receiving. My paintings represent beautiful, colorful moments. Through them I have been able to share my happiness and zest for life. ~ ~ ~ I realized that the way I painted was almost exactly the way I live life - especially my parenting style: Jump right in without much of a plan but great expectations, make it as colorful and as interesting as possible, make a few mistakes along the way, and end up with something that’s a little messy and rough, but full of color and character. Sara’s art is held by private collectors around the nation. Sara has grown roots in Kingman, Arizona, initiating several culturally progressive projects for the benefit of local families, including Kingman Center for the Arts and Beale Street Theater. Sara Peterson Gallery has been designated as a "Trusted Art Seller" with The Art Storefronts Organization, which means you can shop with confidence, and know that I stand behind the quality and value of my products. https://www.sarapetersongallery.com/

William D. Higginson: A Canadian Surrealist Visionary William D. Higginson is a Canadian surrealist painter whose evocative works have captivated audiences worldwide. A professional artist since 2007, Higginson explores a vast array of mediums and genres, creating pieces that resonate on both emotional and intellectual levels. His art is held in private collections across the globe and has been featured in numerous prestigious solo exhibitions. Notable showcases include sellout shows at The Space An Art Gallery (2023 and 2017), The Chali Rosso Art Gallery (2019, alongside works by Salvador Dalí), and The Vancouver Club (2016). Higginson’s accolades highlight his exceptional talent: he claimed 1st place in the Surrealize International Art Competition (2022), two consecutive Golden Brush First Place awards (2011 and 2012), and an Award of Excellence from the Canadian Federation of Artists (2011). These accomplishments are a testament to his skill, vision, and dedication to his craft. His life story is as compelling as his art. Diagnosed with life-threatening liver failure and leukemia at age 11, Higginson spent three years confronting his mortality. During his hospital stay, a request for pencils and paper marked the beginning of a profound artistic journey. “Living with such conditions changes your perspective on life,” Higginson reflects. This early brush with mortality informs much of his work, often blending humor, surrealism, and deeply personal revelations. Beyond his individual achievements, Higginson has made a significant impact on the art community. As the owner of Impressions Live Art since 2007, he pioneered live painting performances, bringing art to audiences in dynamic and interactive ways. He co-founded Direct2Artist, a global initiative supporting thousands of artists in over 80 countries, and served as its Community Director (2013–2019). His roles as Membership Chair for the Federation of Canadian Artists (2013–2016) and Owner/Operator of Art Battle Vancouver (2013–2014) underscore his commitment to fostering artistic talent and community. Higginson’s artistic philosophy centers on emotional engagement and introspection. “My dreams and imagination conjure imagery that I forever strive to render as clear on canvas as in my mind,” he says. This relentless pursuit of creative excellence has made his work a source of inspiration for collectors, art enthusiasts, and aspiring artists alike. Whether mentoring young talents or refining his own craft, Higginson’s passion for art remains unyielding. His journey from hospital bed to international acclaim is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and perseverance. Discover more at: www.williamhigginson.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/william.d.higginson/

The final little treat in this celebration week! It's a walk down the Artifice memory lane with "love notes" from a bunch of my fabulous guests, and some present-day reflection (plus a mild helping of tears) from me. <3 This is the best Valentine's Day gift of my 36 years of life. My heart is fully bursting. Happy Valentine's Day to this heartful little project, to all 200 artists who've changed my life over these past 5 years, and to all of the listeners. I love ya!

Another little bonus track during our CELEBRATE 200 week! This time, it's one of my Deep Dive Essays (featuring wisdom from January's guests), read aloud. Listen friends, joy is a serious subject...

Bestie and chosen sister Olivia Custodio helps me **CELEBRATE 200** in the second of three special episodes this week. After you finish this, check out Episode 15 to hear me interviewing Olivia (the first time we met)! Enjoy!

One-true-fan Jaron Davis helps me **CELEBRATE 200** in the first of three special episodes coming this week. Enjoy!

Hello, I am Anna and I love Pottery I always loved being creative and enjoy trying out various styles and craft making, yet over the years I developed a special relationship to clay. My love of pottery emerged from producing sculptures and about four years ago I also started with ceramics. I just love working and experimenting with this material with seemingly endless applications. In short I don't mind to get my hands dirty sometimes! As a trained architect and architectural historian, I understand structure and materials influencing my creations and inspiring an exploration of new forms with a special fondness for decorations. Originally from Germany I grew up on a small island in the baltic sea close to Denmark but I always felt the call of the big city and so I moved to London in 2015. Even so, a love for the beauty of nature is deep within me, and can be seen within my practice. https://annalovespottery.com/ @annalovespottery

Michael Staum was born in New Jersey in the early sixties. He has been a creator for most of his life. On Michael’s 5th birthday he received art supplies in abundance. Oils, canvases, watercolors and paper, different grades of graphite and pen & ink sets…everything an inquisitive creator needed to start a journey into the world of artistry. At the age of 19 Michael joined The United States Navy and was shipped out to the Pacific Northwest. The state of Washington blew his mind! The sheer beauty and the chill vibe kept him there. Not much goes hand in hand better than the Navy and Tattoos. Michael’s art turned to the tattoo industry. He tattooed his custom artwork for nearly 4 decades. A wonderful career of loyal customers, some famous, most not, filling his days and keeping him smiling. That life was abruptly cut short by the Covid pandemic and a neck surgery that left him with a severe loss of dexterity. Once a creator always a creator. Michael now works in creative one-off leather pieces, hand-sculpted leather décor, leather aprons, bags, and much more along with fine art acrylic on canvas in large format. He sells his wares at the word renowned Pike Place Market in Seattle. You can see him creating and shop his beautiful work at his Arts Studio No. 102 on the Marketfront at the top of Seattle’s Overlook Walk Park. Reach him at bandana@me.com

Zack Davisson is an award-winning translator, writer, and folklorist. He is the author of The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Yokai, Kaibyo The Supernatural Cats of Japan, Yurei the Japanese Ghost, The Art of Star Wars Visions, and Manga: A Visual Guide. He co-writes Ultimate X-Men with Peach Momoko for Marvel Comics. His works have been translated into multiple languages. Zack has translated globally renowned manga such as Go Nagai's Devilman and Cutie Honey, Leiji Matsumoto's Space Battleship Yamato and Captain Harlock, and Satoshi Kon's Opus. He translates Shigeru Mizuki's work such as Kitaro and Showa: A History of Japan, and currently translates Gou Tanabe's Lovecraft adaptations and Nadatani Wataru's Cat + Gamer. Zack lectured on manga, folklore, and translation at Duke University, Annapolis Naval Academy, Università Ca' Foscari Venezia, UCLA, and the University of Washington and contributed to exhibitions at the Museum of International Folkart, Wereldmuseum Rotterdan, Världskulturmuseerna Stockholm, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Zack lives in Seattle, WA with his wife Miyuki, dog Mochi, cat Shere Khan, and several ghosts. Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/zackdavisson.com Website www.zackdavisson.com

Kate Schroeder is a ceramicist and full time professional artist residing in Kansas City, Missouri. She earned a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Sculpture and Ceramics from the University of Central Missouri and a Masters of Fine Arts also emphasizing Sculpture and Ceramics from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Kate has exhibited nationally and has work in collections around the globe. In fact, it can be found on all 7 continents! Before transitioning to a full-time artist, Kate also spent nearly a decade as an educator. She has worked for universities, art institutes, and community colleges. She also spent several years dedicated to the non-profit sector. During this time she managed EPIC Clay Studio, a 501-C3 ceramics studio and Accessible Arts, a Not-For-Profit arts organization, which specialized in teaching art to people with disabilities. She also lived in Tanzania for a summer, where she started a small ceramics program for Walk in Love International.

Working at the intersection of horticulture, art and architecture, David has applied his passion for plants to a growing list of innovative projects, building a broad variety of modern, human-centric spaces with abundant plant life at their heart. David is a pioneer in the field of vertical gardens. He holds a degree in Environmental Horticulture Sciences and Psychology from California Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo. He credits his time spent apprenticing at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, London, with setting him on the path to living wall design. It was at Kew that he came to appreciate the beauty of epiphytic plants—those which have naturally evolved to grow vertically on trees. David sees his work as an integral part of a public shift in consciousness towards a renewed desire for closeness with nature and an appreciation of the restorative effect of plants, especially in urban environments. For David, designing living walls affords the chance not only to promote awareness of native and endangered plant species but also to have a direct impact on quality of life. You can link back to the habitat horticulture site: www.habitathorticulture.com

If you’re curious about the secrets of fulfilled creative living, then ask Lauren Spangler. As a creativity coach she helps artists bridge the gap between their boldest visions and their everyday reality. A painter, writer, and musician herself, as well as a wife and mom of two, Lauren’s mission is to empower artists to enjoy the creative freedom they crave without giving up their other roles and priorities. She has helped hundreds of professionals set and achieve their goals, and now she’s here to help you unblock your inner artist and take big steps toward your biggest dreams. Take the free "Spark or Sputter?" Self-Assessment at www.laurenspangler.com/spark and connect with Lauren on Instagram at @laurenspangler.

KARA BUSSEY, FOUNDER, INSTRUCTOR AND MAKER (CALGARY) Meet Kara, a stained glass artist from Calgary, Canada. She creates unique 3D glass floral sculptures using stained glass, copper wire, and found objects. Leveraging her over 15 years of experience in communications and public relations, Kara uses social media to bring modern stained glass to the masses, bringing the fun with entertaining stained glass process videos and supporting the next generation of budding artists with her in-person and online classes in stained glass. When she's not creating, Kara loves to travel, be outdoors, and spend time with her two daughters and cats. You can find Kara's work on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok @glimpseglass or glimpseglass.ca

Eriksen Dickens is an award winning filmmaker, actor, and business owner based in California. In 2016, Eriksen co-founded Platinum Peek Inc., with his brother, Soren, while in college. Platinum Peek is a video agency that specializes in creating story-driven video solutions for marketing, sales, and operations teams for clients around the country. In 2017, Eriksen directed his first documentary, His Legacy— a 2 hour film based on the life of his late father. Since then, Eriksen has directed numerous “legacy documentaries” for clients from all walks of life. These are films for accomplished people/businesses looking to preserve their story for future generations. His short documentary, Two Magic Drops, was featured in nine film festivals, winning best documentary at two. These legacy documentaries are formulated through a specific 7 step storytelling curriculum developed by the Dickens Brothers. Aside from filmmaking, Eriksen enjoys writing, having published his novel, The Orchard’s Offspring in 2018. He also has acted in numerous projects. Eriksen received his BA in Philosophy in 2017 and his MA in Clinical Psychology in 2021. Links: IG- @eriksenwdickens

I’m Abby, the owner and creator of WoodSolStone studio located in Cincinnati, Ohio. My passion for plants and all things green has always been a part of my dna, so the organic way that this art came to be only made sense for me. I’ve always been a creative person and love the process of moss art. I use every bit of nature I find to create a magical like-living art to infuse the wonderful beauty of the outside world to your special spaces. Woodsolstonestudio.com Follow me on Instagram at @woodsolstone_studio And Facebook at @woodsolstonestudio