CANDYcolored studio podcast episode #251:

micah clasper-torch is one of the most warm, caring and genuine people i've had the pleasure of spending time with. we quickly went deep in this interview and you'll not only be smitten by her gracious desire to teach all that she's learned, but you'll go away from this interview filled with wise thoughts and the courage to continue pursuing your creative path. micah's cv is extensive as are her experiences in the design capitals of the US and the world (milano). her book: punch needle fashion is the bridge between the time-loved craft of needle rug hooking and the seemingly intimidating world of fashion. she effortlessly shares how her love to learn and celebrate the craft & its evolution has taken a lovely creative journey discovering how to construct fashion pieces using this timeless art of punch needle. join her in her community: punch needle world. learn, create and be inspired via her book (it's truly like nothing i've seen) and by joining her email list. enjoy! (and thank you micah!!)

megan schaugaard lives in southern utah, is a mother of 3, art faculty at Utah Tech, an oil painter, mfa grad from the new york academy of art, former employee of "fine art connoisseur" and "pleinair" magazines and has a strong desire to support and lift artists in their business. in this episode you'll hear about her brave choice to attend the new york academy of art during the height of covid. she give beautiful examples of pursuing your passion while keeping family as your highest priority. hear a bit about megan's mfa experience, including meeting and selling a painting to brooke shields. megan and her husband have been working on software to keep all things art biz in one place for artists. yes, there are art organization software programs out there, but "art easely" goes well beyond an organization tool. megan and her husband are actively adding and implementing new aspects to make it the best tool for artists and their collectors. megan says, "i built this for myself. but i thought i would share. built to help you stay organized, save time, and focus on what you do best---creating." 

CANDYcolored studio podcast episode 249:

join jessica libor of the creative heroines podcast and myself as we talk about investing in your business. we discuss and share some wise investments you can make into your business as well as unregrettable investments we’ve personally made. when i began my art business, every bit of profit went right back into my business. there were grids to buy for art shows and fairs, paint to replenish and money to use to build and keep up a website. sometimes they were simple investments like books or medium sized investments like online courses. eventually, i could be more strategic as my income increased, i bought a nice camera, a car lol and now i’m building a studio in our front yard. there’s also the time and energy that you invest in your business and the priorities you keep. while jessica went to art school and i went to architecture school, we both agree that it’s important to follow your heart and find the path that’s best for you. even more important is to find gratitude within your unique path and to support other artists on their path. we all will have different goals and dreams for our art and it’s crucial to stay positive with other artists (and ourselves), to remember that there is room for all creatives and that the world needs your work and creativity.