Just Make Art

Three artists. One exhibition. A decade of friendship that turned into fuel for making braver work. Ty sits down with Vy Ngo and Eric Breish to explore how creative community shapes everything—from the courage to apply, to the way we process rejection, to the rituals that help us recover after the lights go down. We start with origin stories and the rush of seeing our pieces hang together at Art Center Waco’s Amplified show. Then we dig into the practical spine of a thriving art practice: how to pick the right opportunities, why research beats volume, and how strong documentation (clear, well-lit photos and short videos) becomes your first studio visit. We talk about building a cohesive submission that tells a story instead of tossing in disconnected “greatest hits,” and we unpack the difference between galleries that simply move product and those that invest in your evolution. The conversation gets honest around critique and growth. Safe feedback from trusted artist friends can be uncomfortable and necessary—pushing you to clarify intent, separate your voice from influence, and keep evolving. When no arrives, confidence returns to the work itself. One pivotal story turns a painful rejection into a better fit with a smaller gallery that encouraged risk and led to the most personal show of a career. The lesson: alignment and patience create momentum. We also name the quiet crash after big openings—what we call post‑artum depression—and offer tools to navigate it: nature days, spiritual or wellness practices, journaling, and time with people who truly understand. Finally, we celebrate DIY paths and authentic networking. Show up for spaces you love without treating every hello like an angle. Be interested before trying to be interesting; your people will find you. If this resonates, follow, share with an artist who needs it, and leave a review so more creatives can find the show. Your support helps us keep bringing real conversations—and practical tools—to the studio. Vy Ngo: @vjngo_art Eric Breish: @eric_breish_art Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast

What if the hardest days in the studio are not detours, but the path itself? We open up about the real fight behind the work—those sessions where flow vanishes, doubt gets loud, and the canvas refuses to cooperate—and why that tension can become your most reliable teacher. Drawing from Rashid Johnson’s candid reflection with Carrie Scott on battling the work, we unpack the difference between inspiration and perspiration and why chasing “perfect” kills momentum. Along the way, we trade tools and stories: turning fight-or-flight into practical choices, switching pieces to redirect energy, and using rituals like Morning Pages, breath work, and device-free sessions to clear mental noise. Sun Tzu helps us name the real enemy—resistance expressed through fear and comparison—while Julia Cameron and Nick Cave remind us to cooperate with process, loosen our grip on control, and operate under the “cloud of artistic unknowing.” We talk about repainting, scrapping, and starting over, not as failure but as fidelity to the work’s evolving voice. The thread tying it all together is permission. You don’t need a bigger studio, pricier materials, or the perfect plan to make authentic art. You need consent to be where you are, to use what you have, and to let mystery lead when the plan breaks. If you’ve asked yourself, “Have I lost it?” you’re in good company—and you’re exactly where growth happens. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a review telling us how you keep the conversation with your work alive. The Episode from Carrie Scott with Rashid Johnson. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c41I_sre-Uk Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast

What if paint could hold fear, wonder, and the cosmos all at once? That question runs through this conversation with guest host Jamele Wright Sr., where we explore Jack Whitten’s radical break from gesture and the relentless search to make painting enough on its own terms. From turning acrylic into “glass” to trapping forms on a truly flat plane, we trace how Whitten rebuilt painting through mechanics, experiment, and time in the studio. We get candid about gimmicks—when devices clarify and when they distract—and why one stunning passage can sabotage an entire canvas. A spontaneous pilgrimage to see a 10-by-10 Clifford Still became a turning point: white walls, no tricks, just a square that redefined what the work needed. That experience sets up a bigger argument for seeing art in person, where edges, drape, and surface detail can’t hide behind the glow of a screen. Along the way, we connect Rothko’s vertical bars, Twombly’s relentless repetitions, and the sheer grind that makes a monumental gesture land with authority. Whitten’s language of the spiritual, magical, and cosmic opens the door to the era’s space-age curiosity and Black futurist soundtracks—Sun Ra, Funkadelic, and Earth, Wind & Fire—and to the ambition of putting “the fear of God” in paintings. We talk practice as training: ten-painting cycles, breaking boredom at eight, honest tests of scale, and letting assistants’ “mistakes” become creative constraints. Color mixing from scratch, documenting stages, and cooling down after a studio crescendo all feed a process that values interiority and invites slow looking. Abstraction here isn’t an absence; it’s the artist’s inner weather made visible. One hundred people can read the same canvas a hundred different ways, and that plurality is the point. If you’re hungry to make work that holds up off-screen and in real space, this one will nudge you back to the studio and into the museum with fresh eyes. If it resonates, subscribe, share with a friend who loves painting, and leave a review to tell us what artwork last made you stop and stay. Follow Jamele at https://www.instagram.com/artthenewreligion/ Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast

What if paint is the vehicle and you are the medium? We dive deep into Jack Whitten’s Notes from the Woodshed with guest host Jamel Wright Sr., tracing how a life shaped by the Jim Crow South, pre-med rigor, and carpentry precision produced a studio practice built on invention. From the famed developer tool to a crow’s nest for high vantage points, Whitten redesigned the act of making—choosing systems over spontaneity and treating process like a living experiment. Jamel brings a rich perspective as an Atlanta-based artist and professor whose work spans Georgia red clay, Dutch wax cloth, and large-scale textiles. Together we map the long road to abstraction—Turner’s atmospheres, Monet’s shadows, Cézanne’s form, and the New York School’s debates—while centering the Black artists too often written out of the frame. We talk Norman Lewis, Joe Overstreet, Sam Gilliam, and the way community quietly powers discovery, even as art remains a solitary grind. The result is a candid look at research, journaling, and “recipes” that transform failed trials into the first real painting, then the next ten that lock in the language. Along the way, we wrestle with Whitten’s audacity—“May the history of Western painting die within me”—and why abstraction can be activism: engineering new tools, removing gesture, and insisting on thought as freedom. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance materials, memory, and ambition without losing your voice, this conversation offers a field guide. Press play, then tell us what rule you’re ready to break. If the episode resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—your support helps more artists find their way. Follow Jamele Wright, Sr. at https://www.instagram.com/artthenewreligion Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast

What if the most exciting art materials aren’t on a shelf, but in a scrap bin behind the shop? We dig into the joy and rigor of working with nontraditional sources—HVAC steel, coroplast misprints, billboard tarps, even feedbags—and how renewable streams of “improper” materials unlock fearless experimentation. That freedom matters because it fuels the process-first mindset we lean on when the work gets messy, slow, or confusing. We also get practical about longevity. If you’re early in your practice, we suggest a different priority: make more work. Let volume accelerate learning, then invest in archival strategies as your voice takes shape. Along the way, we unpack myths around “creative block,” share simple momentum builders, and explain why deadlines—real or self-imposed—can short-circuit perfectionism. The mental game takes center stage too. We talk about protecting focus in dark news cycles, limiting social media’s pull, and treating the studio as a sanctuary for play. On criticism, we separate opinion from fact, consider the source, and extract usable truth without losing our footing. And we explore deeper currents—gratitude as a creative reset, the spiritual feel of making, and the honest cost of time traded for a few rare breakthroughs that make years of work feel worth it. If you’re curious about unconventional materials, archival finishing, handling fear and doubt, and building a resilient creative practice, this conversation will meet you where you are and nudge you forward. Listen, share with a friend who needs momentum, and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast

We are excited to answer your art questions! In this episode we will discuss: how do you keep your practice thriving while navigating space, money, and access? We dig in with honest, field-tested advice and personal stories from two working artists who’ve built momentum in imperfect conditions. We start with the studio question everyone wrestles with: home vs separate space. You’ll hear why a “setup” beats square footage, how to protect focus if interruptions tank your flow, and scrappy ways to work larger without taking on a lease you can’t sustain. From there, we lay out a gallery game plan: what a strong approach package looks like (10–15 works with depth behind them), what “consistency” really means, and how to get on the radar through open calls, smart social presence, and showing up at the right level. International showing gets a reality check. Culture changes the conversation, but logistics can make or break it. We walk through shipping options, customs surprises, and how to avoid vanity traps with contracts that shift costs onto artists. We also talk residencies, including why many invite-only programs pull from boards and alumni, and how relationships can open doors when applications can’t. Collectors and sustainability round out the heart of the episode. We share favorite delivery stories, why early-stage artists should sell to keep making, and how ideal collectors help build careers over time. For anyone staring down a short financial runway, we offer practical steps: emergency grant resources, low-cost materials that keep you prolific, and the mindset shift that treats bridge income as a patron rather than a detour. If you found value here, follow the show, share it with an artist friend, and leave a review so more creatives can find these conversations. Got a question for part two? Send it our way—your prompts shape the next round. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast

A single question can power a lifetime of work: Why do I make art? Ty and Nathan sit with Ursula Von Rydingsvard’s stark and generous answers—woven from anxiety, labor, faith in process, and the stubborn hope that making can heal—and use it as a mirror for our own practices. From the first splinter to the last pass of the saw, we look at how big work invites big stakes, why the best days feel like discovery, and how the studio becomes a container strong enough to hold whatever we bring into it. We dig into the creative toggle between object and process: when materials feel right but the method frays, and when the method sings but the object won’t land. That friction is feedback, not failure. Ursula’s line about having confidence in the possibility of seeing the work through reframes ambition without guarantees—an artist’s version of resilience. We also talk about self-doubt as a companion rather than an enemy, and how studying our heroes deeply—films, books, museum visits—feeds our own artistic DNA without imitation. There’s a human infrastructure behind monumental art. Ursula’s assistants form another kind of family, proof that leadership in the studio is its own craft. We reflect on daily rhythm, showing up without perfect conditions, and making pieces that may outlive us—which is how work reaches into the future. The conversation edges into generational pain and the unanswerable questions art dares to hold. Answers are rare; presence is everything. If you’ve ever needed permission to trust the process and keep going, consider this your sign. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a creative nudge, and leave a quick review—tell us your “why” so we can feature it in a future Q&A. Make sure to check out "Art from the Outside" and the amazing interview they had with Ursula: Spotify Apple Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg Watch the Video Episode on Youtube or Spotify, https://www.youtube.com/@JustMakeArtPodcast

Coffee, rain, and a table full of half-built ideas set the stage for a candid deep dive into how artists actually move work forward in our second conversation at Poolhaus studio. We trade the comfort of endless polishing for a stubborn rule—get to the next step sooner—and unpack how that one shift stops overworking, preserves strong moments, and helps a real body of work take shape. Along the way, we turn useful decisions into mantras, write them on the wall, and repeat them when stamina dips. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s momentum with intention. We also open the door on critique: how to build a trusted brain trust, weight feedback from mentors versus peers, and curate with clear eyes when your favorite new experiment ranks dead last. Likes are not the art world, and honest notes from people who know your context can be the difference between a scattered show and a resonant one. Confidence matters too—not as posturing, but as fluency in your own language. We talk about answering tough questions from curators, claiming simple choices with conviction, and studying both your work and the person making it. Life intrudes. A recent loss in the recovery community brings the conversation to grief, meaning, and the privilege of making anyway. Borrowing strength from Nick Cave’s reflections on grief as an exalted, remaking state, we choose boldness over hesitation and practice that isn’t conditional on perfect circumstances. Stock your studio with wisdom like winter coats: books, notes, mentors, and sentences that steady you when the weather turns. Then finish the damn thing, explore the dancing sparks, and move to the next with courage and care. If this resonates, follow the show, share it with an artist who needs a nudge, and leave a quick review so more makers can find it. What mantra keeps you moving? Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Artistic breakthroughs don't happen by accident. They emerge from dedicated practice, willingness to fail, and persistence through periods of frustration and doubt. But how do you recognize when you're on the cusp of something transformative versus simply taking another step in your creative journey? Recorded face-to-face at Poolhaus Art Studio in Waco, Texas, this intimate conversation dives deep into the psychology of creative evolution. Both artists share candidly about their current struggles and triumphs, with one revealing a year-long process of private experimentation that's finally beginning to bear fruit. They discuss the delicate balance between methodically refining established techniques and daringly exploring new territories – what one describes as "exploiting the known while exploring the unknown." The discussion reveals powerful strategies for navigating creative uncertainty, including developing systematic approaches to idea management, embracing the cyclical nature of creative development, and maintaining belief in the process even when progress seems elusive. Both artists emphasize the importance of the mantra "the work is taking me somewhere" as a touchstone during difficult periods. Today's artists face unique challenges in the social media age, where the pressure to maintain visibility conflicts with the traditional approach of developing work privately before revealing a cohesive body. The conversation explores finding personal balance, using platforms like Instagram as a "visual journal" without feeling obligated to share finished work prematurely. As Simon de Pury noted, "Instagram will have the same impact on the art market as YouTube had on the music industry" – removing gatekeepers and creating direct connections between artists and audiences. Whether you're struggling to find direction in your practice or contemplating a bold new direction, this episode offers a raw, honest look at the breakthrough process from artists who continue to push their own boundaries. Schedule a studio visit with a fellow artist this week – virtual or in-person – and see where the conversation takes your work. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Have you ever looked at your work-in-progress and thought it was absolutely hideous? According to acclaimed sculptor Arlene Shechet, that's exactly where the magic happens. In this eye-opening exploration of artistic process, we dive deep into Shechet,'s philosophy of creation, where listening to your work becomes just as important as making it. The American sculptor, whose gravity-defying arrangements have earned places in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Whitney, reveals how embracing the "ugly" phases of creation leads to unexpected beauty. "I have to have a real appetite for ugly," Shechet, confesses about her creative process. "There are so many points where this thing is just hideous and yet I have to believe in it." This sentiment resonates profoundly with our own artistic journeys—recognizing that every meaningful piece goes through an awkward adolescence before reaching maturity. What truly sets Shechet, apart is her approach to artistic control. After carefully crafting her ceramic sculptures, she surrenders them to a 2,000-degree kiln where "all bets are off." This balance between meticulous creation and acceptance of unpredictability forms the heart of her practice. She meticulously documents every experiment in notebooks, creating a scientific approach to artistic discovery that allows her work to continually evolve. We're particularly struck by Shechet,'s description of her studio as "both a farm and a factory"—a place that cultivates growth while producing tangible objects. Her commitment to pushing boundaries by creating open systems rather than settling into comfortable patterns mirrors our own philosophy of artistic development. When she declares, "I want to make something more than an idea," she articulates the ultimate challenge facing every serious artist: creating work that resists easy description and demands deeper engagement. Join us in this fascinating conversation about embracing discomfort, fighting against creative stagnation, and finding joy in the uncertain journey of making art that matters. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just beginning your artistic path, Shechet,'s wisdom offers valuable perspective on sustaining growth through perpetual discovery. Please visit: https://art21.org/watch/art-in-the-twenty-first-century/s7/arlene-shechet-in-secrets-segment/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dh_lDHY0ZO4 https://www.frieze.com/video/arlene-shechet-and-sheena-wagstaff-frieze-masters-podcast Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

What separates artists who give up from those who thrive despite rejection? In this fourth installment exploring Jerry Saltz's "How to Be an Artist," Ty and Nathan tackle the emotional armor required to navigate the art world's toughest challenges. When a Pulitzer Prize-winning critic featured Nathan's early work as an example of what not to do, he was devastated. "I was mourning the loss of an art career that didn't even exist," he confesses. This vulnerable moment becomes a masterclass in transforming criticism into creative fuel—a skill every artist must develop. The conversation weaves through the phases of artistic development: wanting it, doing it, and living it. They explore how Instagram has weaponized envy, why self-imposed deadlines create surprising breakthroughs, and the myth of overnight success that derails so many promising careers. "Art gives up its secrets very slowly," they remind us, encouraging patience and persistence. Perhaps most powerful is their discussion of "radical vulnerability"—following your work into uncomfortable psychological territory that reveals your truest voice. As Ty shares stories of gallery disasters and damaged artwork, a portrait emerges of the resilience required to survive the inevitable setbacks of creative life. The episode concludes with Jerry's most memorable advice: after the demons of doubt have spoken, simply tell yourself "I'm a fucking genius" and get back to work. It's strategic delusion as artistic superpower—and it just might be the difference between giving up and breaking through. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Part 3. Diving deep into Jerry Saltz's "How to Be an Artist," we explore the transformative journey of learning to think like an artist. This episode unpacks the beautiful paradox that while art remains unchanged physically, it's never the same when we experience it – as Saltz writes, "an unchanging thing that is never the same." We discuss how becoming a "seeing machine" develops your artistic eye, examining artwork up close, questioning materials and processes, and truly noticing rather than merely looking. One of the most powerful concepts we explore is embracing artistic inconsistency. When Saltz writes, "Don't resist something if you're afraid it's taking you far afield from your usual direction. That's the wild animal in you feeding," he reminds us that creative evolution requires following our instincts even when they lead us into unfamiliar territory. This is how artists avoid becoming creatively caged – by allowing ourselves to experiment freely. The conversation takes a particularly meaningful turn when discussing courage as "a desperate gamble that will place you in the arms of creative angels." We examine how artists throughout history, from Alice Neel to Ellsworth Kelly, displayed remarkable bravery by pursuing their unique visions despite working against prevailing movements of their time. Their courage to follow their intuitive logic ultimately led to extraordinary contributions to art history. Perhaps most reassuringly, we break down Saltz's practical insight that an artist's career can be sustained by surprisingly few supporters – just one dedicated dealer, a handful of collectors, and a few critics or curators who understand the work. The challenge lies in putting yourself out there consistently, showing up at exhibitions, and actively participating in the art community. What will you discover about your own creative process by training yourself to see differently? How might embracing your artistic inconsistencies lead to unexpected breakthroughs? Join us as we continue our exploration of what it truly means to be an artist in today's world. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

What transforms raw materials into meaningful art? How do artists develop their unique voice while standing on the shoulders of those who came before them? In this thought-provoking second part exploration of Jerry Saltz's "How to Be an Artist," we unpack the practical realities of the creative journey and the mindsets that sustain artistic growth. The conversation begins with the critical practice of capturing ideas—through sketchbooks, journals, voice memos—creating an ever-expanding archive of inspiration that artists can mine for future work. We share personal systems for documenting fleeting thoughts and how this practice often reveals what's truly happening in our minds. These captured moments become the seeds from which our most authentic work grows. We tackle the intimidating challenge of finding one's artistic voice, challenging the myth that great artists spring forth with fully-formed originality. All masters begin as students—imitating, copying, and gradually infusing their personal perspective into established forms. The studio becomes the sacred space for this transformation—a sanctuary where imitation evolves into innovation without judgment or shame. Whether your workspace resembles the pristine order of Agnes Martin or the chaotic energy of Francis Bacon, it should serve as your laboratory for experimentation. Perhaps most profound is the discussion of embedding thought and emotion into physical materials—creating work that communicates even when you're not present to explain it. This alchemical process requires deep listening to both your materials and your inner voice. Great art puts out more energy than went into its making, resonating with viewers on levels beyond literal understanding. We close with an essential reminder: there are no wasted days in the studio. Even apparent failures move your practice forward. The struggle itself is valuable—often taking you further than easy successes ever could. Learn to finish work and move forward rather than getting trapped in perfectionism. Your next piece will benefit from everything you've discovered in creating this one. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just beginning your creative journey, this episode offers practical wisdom and permission to embrace both the struggle and joy of making meaningful work that's distinctly yours. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

What if the path to becoming an artist wasn't shrouded in mystery but illuminated by practical wisdom? In this deep dive into Jerry Saltz's transformative book "How to Be an Artist," we explore the Pulitzer Prize-winning critic's generous, accessible, and remarkably grounded advice for creative souls at any stage of their journey. "Art is for everyone," Saltz declares, immediately dismantling the barriers that keep so many from pursuing their creative calling. Whether you're wondering if you can be an artist without formal education, while working full-time, or while wrestling with crippling self-doubt, his answer rings clear: "Of course you can." Through our conversation, we unpack how Saltz's decades of observing artists have yielded insights that speak directly to the heart of the creative struggle. The book's wisdom resonates powerfully throughout our discussion – from embracing the uncomfortable vulnerability of making art to recognizing that "the faster your work makes sense, the faster people will lose interest." We explore why certainty kills curiosity, how imagination forms the very essence of human existence, and why getting productively lost might be the most direct path to finding your voice. Saltz's practical advice – "cast your nets into the waters" of inspiration and "work, work, work" – offers a refreshing antidote to creative paralysis. Perhaps most encouraging is Saltz's insistence that it's never too late to begin. Through stories of artists who found success later in life (including Saltz himself who didn't become serious about his calling until age 40), we confront the myth that artistic accomplishment requires early specialization. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to deepen your existing practice, this episode offers a roadmap filled with practical wisdom, compassionate encouragement, and the liberating reminder that "nothing happens if you're not working, but anything can happen when you are." Buy "How to be an Artist" by Jerry Saltz Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Have you ever felt like your artwork knows more than you do? In this intimate, unplanned conversation recorded during a Montana retreat, Ty and Nathan explore the vital yet often overlooked practice of soul care for artists. Surrounded by the sounds of birdsong and nestled in Montana's rolling landscape, we dive into what happens when artists intentionally step away from their studios. More than just a luxury, these moments of pause—whether through travel, immersion in nature, or simple daily rituals—fundamentally transform our creative practice and the work that emerges from it. Drawing wisdom from Mary Oliver's poetry collection "Redbird" and Jack Whitten's studio journals, we unpack what it means to create "not for the sake of winning, but for sheer delight and gratitude." Oliver's observation that "it is a serious thing just to be alive on this fresh morning in this broken world" reminds us that pausing to notice our surroundings isn't just pleasant—it's essential to developing our artistic voice. We share our personal soul care practices, from morning reading rituals and mindful walks to the transformative power of travel and trying uncomfortable new experiences. The conversation explores how these moments help us break free from achievement-oriented creation and return to our work with renewed vision. As Whitten noted, "Nature does not think"—it simply exists. There's profound creative wisdom in learning to sometimes just be rather than constantly do. Whether you're struggling with burnout or simply seeking to deepen your creative practice, this conversation offers practical inspiration for incorporating soul care into your artistic journey. Take a moment with us, slow down, and discover how the small pauses might actually hold everything you need. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Leonardo Drew invites us into the physical, philosophical, and sometimes painful world of material transformation. Unlike artists who work with found objects carrying built-in histories, Drew deliberately purchases new materials that he must personally weather and transform. "I need to become the weather," he explains, describing a process where he subjects materials to rigorous physical manipulation that often results in literal bloodshed. This physical commitment reflects Drew's deeper philosophy about creation. He describes himself as "the crack addict of art," chasing the highs of creative breakthrough through persistent experimentation and a willingness to fail. His practice demands patience—it took seven years from his initial decision to create what would become his signature style before producing what he considered his first successful piece (which he numbered "8," acknowledging the previous attempts). Drew conceptualizes artists as antennas receiving creative energy from the universe. He purposefully travels to "cradles of civilization" like China and Machu Picchu, absorbing experiences that later emerge organically in his work. "You don't have to say I'm making work about this specifically," he notes, "because that would cage and imprison the whole idea." This philosophy requires "getting out of the way" of one's own creative process—removing ego and preconceptions to allow authentic creation to happen. By refusing to title his monumental works beyond simple numbering, Drew extends his transformation-based practice to the viewing experience itself. Each piece continues to transform through viewers' unique interpretations, creating an endless cycle of meaning-making that transcends the artist's original intent. As Drew profoundly states, "As I'm moving closer and closer to answering questions, at the same time I'm moving further away from the answers." Want to experience this transformative approach in your own creative practice? Keep your channels open by constantly introducing new ideas and techniques. When feeling stuck, switch things up dramatically—if you're a painter, try sculpture; if you work abstractly, attempt representation. The discomfort of new approaches often leads to the most significant breakthroughs. Leonardo Drew in "Investigation" - Season 7 - "Art in the Twenty-First Century" | Art21 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymMGgOCoK8k&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR&index=5 An Interview with Leonardo Drew | Wadsworth Antheneum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-75fm_UzhYg&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR&index=4 Woodcuts: Leonardo Drew | useum of Arts and Design (MAD) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4N3S2nvDcvU&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR&index=3 Artist Talk: Leonardo Drew | Amon Carter Museum of American Art Fort Worth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtsqaHfEYxc&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR Carrie Scott, SEEN Podcast | Leonardo Drew Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

The journey from discarded material to transcendent art forms the foundation of our conversation about Leonardo Drew, one of contemporary art's most physically committed and philosophically profound creators. Drew's remarkable journey began in the most unlikely of places—playing in a dump as a child in Tallahassee, Florida—a formative experience that would later inform his artistic sensibility and material relationship. What strikes you immediately about Drew is the joyful contradiction between his ebullient personality and the weighted gravity of his installations. His work appears weathered, aged, and discovered rather than created, yet as we learn, this is a carefully orchestrated illusion. "I don't work with found objects," Drew reveals. "Most of my material I actually create in the studio... I become the weather." This transformation process, where new materials are methodically distressed until they appear to carry centuries of history, speaks to Drew's profound understanding of time, memory, and physical transformation. Perhaps most compelling is Drew's pivotal turning point at age fifteen, when a black-and-white reproduction of a Jackson Pollock painting changed everything. Despite being courted by Marvel and DC Comics for his extraordinary illustrative talents, Drew abandoned this promising commercial path to pursue fine art—a decision requiring remarkable courage. "I decided it was time for me to stop using what I did well," he explains, essentially tying his hands to discover what existed beyond his comfort zone. This willingness to abandon mastery in pursuit of deeper questions characterizes his entire approach. Drew's extraordinary work ethic—rotating between seven projects simultaneously like "crying babies" needing attention—and his seven-year disappearance into the studio to develop his voice demonstrate a commitment few artists match. His perspective on creative struggle as "the most beautiful part of the journey" reminds us that art-making thrives on questions rather than answers. Experience Drew's transformative installations in person to understand why his work commands such reverence among artists and audiences alike. Sources: Leonardo Drew in "Investigation" - Season 7 - "Art in the Twenty-First Century" | Art21 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymMGgOCoK8k&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR&index=5 An Interview with Leonardo Drew | Wadsworth Antheneum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-75fm_UzhYg&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR&index=4 Woodcuts: Leonardo Drew | useum of Arts and Design (MAD) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4N3S2nvDcvU&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR&index=3 Artist Talk: Leonardo Drew | Amon Carter Museum of American Art Fort Worth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtsqaHfEYxc&list=PLfV5vsCYQApkupBnzNY3YxKpFJeNb7HqR Carrie Scott, SEEN Podcast | Leonardo Drew https://open.spotify.com/episode/1a54U1cidMrWratJewuyFy?si=27cd5abd710f4439 Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

From Jan 2024. Dive into the provocative world of artistic "theft" as Ty and Nathan explore how creative innovation truly emerges from our influences. This conversation challenges the myth of pure originality, arguing instead that the greatest artists throughout history have been masterful collectors and transformers of ideas. Beginning with Japanese fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto's transformative quote—"Start copying what you love... at the end of the copy you will find yourself"—the duo examines how creative development flourishes through strategic borrowing. From Quentin Tarantino's open acknowledgment of film references to David Bowie's musical influences, the most distinctive voices often emerge from those who've absorbed the most diverse inspirations. They unpack wisdom from creative legends including Jim Jarmusch, Paul Schrader, and Jean-Luc Godard, who all emphasize that true originality lies not in where you take ideas from, but where you take them to. Art movements throughout history—from Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism—evolved through artists stealing ideas from each other while working side by side, proving that innovation rarely emerges in isolation. What distinguishes mere imitation from transformative theft? When does copying become finding your voice? The conversation offers practical advice for artists at every stage: diversify your influences, document what moves you and why, maintain an "omnivorous" approach to inspiration, and create systems to capture ideas when they strike. Ultimately, the episode makes a compelling case that the most authentic artistic expression comes not from avoiding influence, but from embracing it wholeheartedly. Follow us on Instagram @ty_nathan_clark and @nathanturborg to continue exploring how creative influences shape artistic development. Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Have you ever wondered what exactly an artist residency is and whether it might be the missing piece in your creative journey? In this comprehensive guide, Ty Nathan Clark takes you through everything you need to know about these transformative opportunities. Artist residencies aren't just retreats—they're powerful creative accelerators that provide dedicated time, space, and freedom to focus exclusively on your work. From rural sanctuaries nestled in nature to dynamic urban studios, these programs offer artists the chance to step away from daily distractions and immerse themselves in their practice. The benefits extend far beyond a change of scenery. Residencies foster creative growth through uninterrupted studio time, expose you to new perspectives in unfamiliar environments, build valuable professional networks, provide access to specialized equipment and mentorship, and can significantly enhance your artistic credibility. As one resident reflected, "I left with the certainty that I'm an artist with a commitment to the creative life that I've never since questioned." Finding the right residency requires understanding what you need. Do you crave rural peace or urban energy? Are you seeking community or solitude? Can you self-fund, or do you need financial support? From fully-funded career-makers like Skowhegan and MacDowell to self-directed retreats, there's something for every artist at every career stage—you just need to know where to look and how to successfully apply. Ty shares insider tips for crafting winning applications: be specific about your plans, showcase your strongest recent work, explain why this moment and this particular residency are right for you, and always follow application guidelines meticulously. For those who secure a residency, he offers practical advice on preparing materials, absorbing your surroundings before diving into work, and documenting your experience. Whether you're considering your first residency application or looking to elevate your approach, this episode provides the knowledge and inspiration to take this meaningful step in your artistic journey. Ready to transform your practice through new experiences, connections, and creative freedom? Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg

Doubt isn't the enemy of artistic greatness—it's the catalyst. Reuniting after two months apart, Ty and Nathan dive into the profound relationship between artistic excellence and uncertainty through Robert Hughes' provocative quote: "The greater the artist, the greater the doubt." Ty shares his exciting news about being accepted to the Marfa Invitational after years of persistent applications, exemplifying how perseverance through doubt eventually bears fruit. We explore Charles Bukowski's observation that intelligence breeds uncertainty while ignorance fosters unearned confidence, and how this paradox shapes the creative journey. The conversation weaves through profound insights from Anton Chekhov on asking questions rather than providing answers, Francis Bacon's challenge to "deepen the mystery," and Kurt Vonnegut's call to "jump off cliffs and develop wings on the way down." Drawing parallels between artistic exploration and literal mapmaking, we discuss how venturing into unknown creative territory requires tolerating discomfort while expanding our artistic capabilities. Whether you're feeling stuck in your creative practice or questioning your direction, this episode offers a refreshing perspective: interesting failures lead to interesting successes. By redefining what success means and embracing experimentation as part of the journey, artists can transform doubt from a burden into a powerful tool for growth. Ready to make your most interesting work? Join us for a conversation that might just change how you view uncertainty in your creative practice. As Van Gogh wisely advised, "I am always doing what I cannot do yet in order to learn how to do it." Send us a message - we would love to hear from you! Make sure to follow us on Instagram here: @justmakeartpodcast @tynathanclark @nathanterborg