Show Up or Shut Up with Wendy Solganik

Host Wendy Solganik interviews quilting instructor Heather Kojan, a modern quilter with traditional roots, founder of the Baltimore Modern Quilt Guild, and Willa Workshops instructor behind Threaded and Sewn, The Modern Improv Pillow, and the upcoming in-person retreat Fodder School Live (sold out; August 2026). Heather recounts growing up crafty (crochet, sewing), studying business, working in radio, restaurants, and a small catering business, then making her first quilt in late-80s colors and quilting casually while raising kids. She describes discovering modern quilting through blogs/Flickr, starting a guild to build community in Baltimore, and “faking it till you make it” into lecturing and national teaching, patterns, publications, and retreats (including a large Lancaster retreat). Heather explains her income streams, extensive travel, and plans to reduce travel while creating more Willa Workshops content that merges mixed media and textiles, including future collaborations and a planned co-taught Fodder School 7 lesson. 00:00 Meet Heather Kojan 02:05 Podcast Premise and Intro 03:39 Why Heather Now 04:44 From New York to Virginia 10:02 Early Craft Obsessions 12:46 College and Career Detours 16:26 Radio Restaurants and Catering 19:48 First Quilt and Family Life 23:03 Modern Quilting Awakening 25:06 Starting a Quilt Guild 28:23 First Lectures to Full Time 30:56 Income Streams and Recognition 33:35 How She Booked Teaching Gigs 34:32 Cold Email Breakthrough 35:53 Applying and Getting Noticed 37:04 Taking Over the Retreat 38:55 What Happens at Retreats 41:14 Finding Fodder School 46:13 From Student to Collaborator 50:57 Building Online Courses 59:08 Planning the Next Chapter 01:01:38 Travel Burnout and Ego 01:06:15 Slowing Down and New Hybrids 01:11:34 Recruiting Teachers and FS7 01:14:24 Wrap Up and Thanks

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, Wendy interviews artist Jane Chipp, who is returning to Fodder School 5 as a teacher. They delve into Jane's artistic journey, from her early fascination with handmade crafts influenced by her family's Baltic heritage to her evolution into a mixed media artist specializing in collage, assemblage art, journaling, and textiles. Jane shares pivotal moments, including her participation in a three-year textile art program, her transformative experience with a found collection of personal artifacts, and her prolific work during the COVID-19 lockdown. Together, they discuss the benefits and challenges of teaching art online, the joy of crafting with found photos, and the intricate, layered techniques that define Jane's unique artistic style. Jane also offers a sneak peek into her upcoming lessons inspired by vintage lace for Fodder School 5.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:21 Meet Jane Chipp: Artist and Teacher04:03 Jane's Early Life and Creative Beginnings05:07 Family Influence and Childhood Creativity08:59 Career Path and Creative Pursuits15:35 Discovering Textile Art and Mixed Media33:46 The Turning Point: Honoring a Stranger's Life47:54 Struggles with Large-Scale Art48:38 Exciting New Project in Fodder School50:09 The Importance of Artistic Community52:07 Impact of COVID-19 on Artistic Journey52:23 The 100-Day Project and Instagram Journey53:42 Writing and Publishing a Book01:00:46 Meeting Lori Canner and the Collage Community01:03:51 The Role of Instagram in Artistic Growth01:09:35 Teaching and Creating Online Courses01:13:04 Artistic Preferences and Techniques01:15:56 Signature Colors and Artistic Style01:29:55 Upcoming Fodder School Project01:31:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Show Up or Shut Up Podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews mixed media artist Roxanne Evans Stout. Wendy announces that Roxanne will be joining Fodder School 5 as a first-time instructor. The conversation delves into Roxanne's artistic journey which began in her childhood in Santa Monica and evolved through various stages, including her experiences growing up in different places due to her father's Air Force career, her education in the sciences at Humboldt State, and her eventual shift to a more free-form, mixed media art style. Roxanne talks about her teaching career, her close relationship with her mother who was also an artist, and how her mother’s passing intensified her commitment to art. The episode also explores Roxanne’s teaching experiences in locations like Santa Fe and her upcoming workshop in Italy. Wendy and Roxanne discuss the unique elements of Roxanne's art, including her use of neutral colors, texture, and inspiration from nature. Roxanne shares her excitement for the new projects in Fodder School 5 and drops hints about her plans for the artistic journey ahead.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest02:37 Roxanne's Early Life and Artistic Beginnings04:04 Life in Santa Monica and Artistic Influences07:48 College Years and Meeting Her Husband13:23 Life in Northern California and Early Art Career20:43 Teaching Career and Artistic Evolution22:46 Developing a Unique Artistic Style25:35 The Influence of Blogging and Artist Books29:15 Collections and Inspirations35:27 The Story Behind the Work Table36:38 Challenges of Building a Custom Table37:49 Creating an Inspiring Studio Space39:35 The Evolution of My Art Journey40:15 Teaching and Workshops43:13 Artist Residencies and Their Impact46:38 Upcoming Workshops and Inspirations52:58 Exploring My Color Palette58:31 Influence of My Mother's Art01:06:03 Conclusion and Future Plans

In this episode, Wendy Solganik interviews Cheiron Brandon, a mixed media artist specializing in greeting cards. Cheiron shares her journey from discovering a local stamp store to becoming a prolific maker with a deep expertise in Tim Holtz's distress line. The discussion covers her evolving art style, teaching workshops, and participating in design teams. She also talks about her recent personal transitions and how she integrates her creative life into her new surroundings. The episode delves into the intricacies of using various mixed media products and offers insights into the world of card making and mixed media art.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest02:20 Meet Cheiron Brandon: A Journey from New Jersey03:40 Cheiron's Artistic Beginnings and Inspirations08:17 Discovering Rubber Stamping and Card Making16:08 From Hobby to Passion: Teaching and Creating18:41 Exploring Mixed Media and Tim Holtz Products22:24 The Evolution of Sharon's Art Style28:44 Collaborations and Design Teams37:30 Teaching and Online Classes39:09 Joining Fodder School and Continuous Learning39:39 Learning from Different Artists40:56 Balancing Art and Life Changes41:47 Becoming a Fodder School Teacher42:49 Exploring Alcohol Inks43:09 The Evolution of Alcohol Inks45:19 Crafting with Alcohol Inks50:48 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge55:11 Relocating and Creating a New Routine59:16 Crafting Community and Retreats01:07:24 The Joy of Card Making01:08:27 Looking Forward: Future Projects

In Season Five, Episode 3 of the Show Up or Shut Up podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews artist Arlyna Blanchard. Arlyna, who resides in Singapore and runs her own design firm, will be joining Fodder School 5 as a teacher for the first time. The episode explores Arlyna's artistic journey, from her early influences in the Philippines to her expansive career in graphic design in Taiwan and now in Shanghai. They discuss her experiences with urban sketching, digital scrapbooking, and the challenges of teaching online art courses. Arlyna shares personal anecdotes about balancing a demanding career while raising twins, and how her art practice evolved post-divorce. The episode offers insight into her creative process and her love for vibrant colors, particularly neon pink. This inspiring conversation highlights Arlyna's dedication to continuous learning and artistic expression.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:21 Meet Arlyna Blanchard: Artist and Teacher00:48 Wendy and Arlyna's Artistic Connection01:55 Podcast Overview and Host Introduction03:23 Arlyna's Background and Journey05:43 Growing Up in the Philippines07:23 Cultural and Linguistic Influences13:22 Artistic Beginnings and Influences21:29 Education and Career Path22:52 Life in Taiwan and Move to Shanghai33:47 Family Life and Artistic Exploration36:11 Scrapbooking and Early Art Journaling42:07 Struggles with Art Journaling43:17 Finding Personal Style in Art45:34 Balancing Art and Life46:47 The Impact of Divorce on Creativity48:40 Work-Life Balance and Art54:09 Embracing Favorite Colors01:02:19 The Joy of Learning and Teaching01:10:25 Exploring Urban Sketching and Illustration01:19:23 The Therapeutic Power of Art01:21:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, Wendy Solganik interviews mixed media artist Kate McCurrach. Kate, who has been an inspiring participant and leader in previous Fodder School years, will now join as a teacher for Fodder School 5. Wendy and Kate delve into Kate's harrowing life story, which includes a pioneering family history, a battle with multiple chronic illnesses including lupus, and a radical career shift from science to art. Kate shares her experiences of crafting scientific-themed creations, running a successful Etsy shop, and participating in high-end craft shows. She talks about her creative process, the therapeutic role of art in her life, and her journey into art journaling. This episode is a deep dive into the resilience and creativity of an artist who finds joy and solace in making, against all odds.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:37 Meet Kate McCurrach: Artist and Fodder School Teacher03:09 Kate's Background and Early Life04:17 Growing Up in British Columbia05:12 Family History and Heritage15:30 Crafting and Creativity in Kate's Family19:20 Kate's Artistic Journey in School28:33 University Life and Science Studies35:17 Health Challenges and Life Changes41:58 Starting a Craft Business on Etsy49:45 Starting a Button Business50:55 Expanding the Product Line51:34 Personal Life and Health Challenges54:05 Craft Shows and Market Experiences57:07 Living with Chronic Illness01:05:30 Pregnancy and Motherhood01:20:55 Rediscovering Art and Joining Fodder School01:26:39 Reflections and Future Plans

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, Wendy Solganik interviews Carrie Smith, an artist and new instructor in Fodder School 4. Carrie reflects on her 12-year teaching career, her evolution into a collage artist inspired by her daughter, and her global travels that deeply influence her art. The discussion covers Carrie's experiences with adult ADHD, its late diagnosis, and its impact on her life and family's dynamics. They explore her journey of teaching world culture art classes to children, and the significant role that Fodder School played in her artistic development. The episode emphasizes the blend of creative freedom and structured guidance, highlighting Carrie's excitement about joining as a Fodder School teacher. This heartfelt conversation showcases the inspiring interplay of art and teaching. 00:37 Carrie's Background and Artistic Journey 04:30 Carrie's Childhood and Family Life 06:52 Growing Up Near the Mexican Border 13:48 College Years and Early Career 16:26 The Life-Changing World Trip 25:53 Teaching Around the World Art Classes 34:06 Homeschooling and Creative Education 52:10 ADHD Diagnosis and Personal Insights 54:08 A Lifetime of Business Ideas 55:01 The Importance of Focus 56:07 ADHD as a Superpower 57:01 Family Dynamics with ADHD 58:05 Challenges in Education 01:02:14 Understanding ADHD 01:13:15 The Journey into Art 01:21:10 Joining Fodder School 01:24:07 The Value of Fodder School 01:36:24 Teaching and Learning 01:41:01 Conclusion and Gratitude

In Season 4, Episode 7 of the Show Up or Shut Up Podcast, host Wendy Solganik sits down with mixed media artist and former teacher Tracey Wozniak. They explore Tracey's extensive background in art, her role as a homeschooling mother, and her re-engagement with Fodder School as an instructor. The discussion covers Tracey’s creative evolution towards mixed media and textile art, her dynamics with social media, home renovation projects, and the intersection of her personal and professional life. Wendy and Tracey also share their insights on blending art with business, managing creative shifts, and the importance of community support in the digital art world. The episode provides valuable perspectives on balancing artistic pursuits with family duties and the continuous journey of personal and professional growth. 03:08 Tracey's Instagram Journey 05:23 Life in Florida and Home Renovation 14:07 Tracey's Artistic Beginnings 31:34 Homeschooling and Family Life 39:43 Discovering Instagram and Building Community 54:49 Exploring the World of Color 55:27 Navigating the Shift to Video 56:02 The Fragile Thread of Community 56:27 The Evolution of Instagram 57:29 The Role of Video in Art 01:13:03 Creative Shifts and Personal Growth 01:22:02 The Challenges of Running an Art Business 01:31:42 The Importance of Staying Connected 01:32:09 Home Renovation and Creative Projects 01:40:48 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode of the 'Show Up or Shut Up' podcast, host Wendy Solganik interviews artist Sally Hirst. They discuss Sally's upcoming role as an instructor in Fodder School 4, and explore her unique artistic journey. Sally shares insights into her life, from her chaotic childhood and self-education in London’s museums, to her late arrival at Cambridge University and her prolific career as an art teacher and artist. The conversation delves into her innovative techniques using modeling clay in printmaking, her teaching experiences, and the challenges of balancing art creation with marketing. Sally also reflects on her various living experiences, including renovating a 300-year-old house in Spain. The episode wraps up with an exciting preview of Sally's projects for Fodder School, highlighting her expertise in creating collage papers and artistic coasters. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:08 Meet Sally Hirst: A New Instructor at Fodder School 01:03 Wendy's Artistic Journey and Podcast Mission 02:27 Interview with Sally Hirst Begins 04:19 Sally's Early Life and Artistic Beginnings 07:42 Navigating School and Self-Education 11:07 Teenage Years and Early Adulthood 14:50 Balancing Art, Family, and Career 18:02 Teaching and Continuing Artistic Pursuits 22:19 The Business of Being an Artist 29:29 The Vulnerability of Seeking Gallery Representation 30:14 The Evolution of Art Marketing 30:49 Exciting Projects in Fodder School 32:03 Innovative Collage Techniques 33:04 The Significance of Found Objects 36:59 A Nomadic Life and Artistic Inspiration 38:55 Spanish Adventures and Renovations 43:56 Navigating Brexit and Relocation 48:01 Current Studio Setup and Teaching 54:04 Balancing Art Creation and Teaching 55:46 Upcoming Shows and Online Presence 56:50 Conclusion and Gratitude

This episode features Jack Ravi, a Mixed Media Artist and Co-author of the book Artful Memories, who shares his personal journey from Northern Italy to living in Scotland and embracing a life of creativity. Jack reminisces about studying the history of art at the University of Milan, transitioning to London for work, and finally moving to Scotland where they found peace and a deeper connection to art amidst the pandemic. The discussion delves into the challenges and realizations about pursuing art, the contrasting dynamics between being a mathematician and a creative, and the pivotal moment during the lockdown that reignited Jack's passion for collage art using vintage photographs and postcards. Through their story, Jack articulates the meaningfulness of connecting with one's ancestry through art and the evolving concept of artistry that includes embracing marketing as a creative endeavor. The episode further explores the impact of sharing one's creativity on platforms like Instagram, the tangible connection with history through vintage photos, and the deeper philosophical contemplation of life's brevity and memory. 01:26 The Journey of Jack: From Italy to Scotland03:08 Embracing Creativity and Overcoming Insecurities09:51 Transitioning to London and Finding a Path in Art11:53 Exploring Mixed Media Art and Its Challenges22:14 The Power of Vintage Photos in Art30:00 Connecting with Ancestral Memories Through Art34:46 The Impact of Art on Viewers and Personal Reflections