Artists Mean Business

Advice to millennials, emerging artists, and so much more on Podcast #25 with the irreverent, and always gregarious Don Hall.  The best and worst thing a parent can do is tell a child their "special". Words to live by from director of live events at WBEZ, Don Hall. Saved by the universe at a young age - at least according to his mother - Don Hall has worn a variety of hats helping to sow together the quilted ecosystem that is Chicago's performance underbelly.  A man who continues to play his part sculpting the city's storytelling scene, talks about how doing what no one else wants to do is where you can find your sweet spot!  "Once in a while you get a "Blue Man Group", says Hall, "but most successful people in the arts are not doing anything innovative or new."  Hear this, and more from the provocative Mr. Don Hall on Episode 25.  Quoting fellow producer and podcaster, Shannon Cason, Don Hall feels "I've hit a point where I no longer want to be successful, I just want to be significant. (Shannon Kasig)     Advice to millennials, emerging artists, and so much more on Podcast #25 with the irreverent, and always gregarious Don Hall.    The best and worst thing a parent can do is tell a child their "special". Words to live by from director of live events at WBEZ, Don Hall. Saved by the universe at a young age - at least according to his mother - Don Hall has worn a variety of hats helping to sow together the quilted ecosystem that is Chicago's performance underbelly.    A man who continues to play his part sculpting the city's storytelling scene, talks about how doing what no one else wants to do is where you can find your sweet spot!   "Once in a while you get a "Blue Man Group", says Hall, "but most successful people in the arts are not doing anything innovative or new." Hear this, and more from the provocative Mr. Don Hall on Episode 25.     Quoting fellow producer and podcaster, Shannon Cason, Don Hall feels "I've hit a point where I no longer want to be successful, I just want to be signifigant. -Shannon Kasig   --  All the best, Jess Kaswiner @JessinAction 201.650.5851   Drawing Connections

In Episode 24 I sit down Faheem Majeed, educator, builder, and community engaged artist.  Majeed's work does more than explore the material world through the built environment; it challenges our relationships to it. Yet, were it not for his varied - and admittedly, circuitous career path - his work might lack the interdisciplinarity that critic Patrica Phillips suggests "is not simply an indiscriminate amalgamation of conventions from different fields, but a faceted way of looking at the formation of knowledge and the public realm". In this deep-dive conversation, Faheem revisits some of his "sweetest mistakes" and how sometimes, letting the thing fall apart, just might be part of the process. Here, he offers his own take on failing-forward, "Read the biographies of those who have not simply been plucked".  In this statement, Majeed suggests that we not simply look at how far an artist has come, but rather, the many destinations he or she has been. The interview ends on a rather prolific note, quoting fellow Chicagoan and artist-mentor, Kerry James Marshall, "Your actions need to speak to your goals". Marinate on that!3 chances to see Faheem Majeed's work1) Visit the MCA Chicago to experience Faheem's  first solo museum exhibition, "Works" (through August 16, 2015).2) MCA Studio: Thēarē Group (Fri, Jun 12, 2015, 10am–5 pm)3) MCA Talk: LaShana Jackson and Faheem Majeed (Sun, Aug 16, 2015, 3–4pm)

The improv stylings of Jazz musician Andy Baker influenced our conversation in many ways and informed my understanding of how a veteran trombonist, composer and arranger was able to find success by "goin' with the flow". In this episode we take a trip down memory lane. We revisit life lessons learned - perhaps the hard way - but how, in effect, these lessons taught a once novice Professor Baker the importance of empathy in classroom.

Have you ever asked yourself, "How am I ever going to make this work in today's economy?" Do you incessantly rant about how Pandora and Spotify are ruining the music industry? If the answer is yes, then you'll most definitely find this week's podcast inspiring. Listen to DJ, Music Producer and Musician Jesse Hoz as he reflects on his 20 year career and the numerous paths he has taken to become one of Chicago's most sought after DJ's, a prolific music producer, and the reason why my Wednesday night indoor cycling class is always full! Yes, DJ Jesse Hoz gives new meaning to the word "spinning". Tune in to hear how Jesse Hoz has overcome the odds in a truly artistic, adaptable and entrepreneurial spirit.

Sitting down with Chicago-based sculptor and art educator Sabina Ott, I learned the do's, dont's and everything in between. Sitting together in her home/studio/art space (a.k.a Terrain) Sabina offers earnest advice to emerging artists. Reflecting on 20+ years of working and making, Sabina admits that it is the relationships she's built and her unwavering commitment to saying "YES!" that has made it possible for her current success. See her solo exhibition, "here and there pink melon joy" at the Chicago Cultural Center, on view 8/30/2014-1/4/2014. Reception: Friday, September 12 @ 5:30pm Gallery Talk: Thursday, October 9 @ 12:15pm

WE'VE MADE IT! The long-awaited 20th episode of Artists Mean Business is here. In advance of Thanksgiving, I've take time this month to feature New York based photographer, Ben Ritter - an artist who shares his gratitude for an early internship opportunity that opened the floodgates to a prolific career as an arts entrepreneur and freelance photographer. His work is featured in such nationally recognized publications as GQ, Rolling Stone, SPIN and MAXIM. From an interview with VICE Magazine, Ben "lives in the moment and he lets his images stand as iconic memories of some wild experiences instead of trying to reshape the past. He's got a keen eye for telling a story in a single image, skilled enough to capture and present any image he can imagine and savvy enough to have made it his job" This behind-the-lens look at what it takes to be successful in today's competitive freelance photo field will no doubt put burgeoning arts entrepreneurs ahead of the curb... For more information on Ben Ritter visit www.benritter.com

Welcome to Episode 19 of Artists Mean Business. This month we recognize an award winning artist, educator, and activist, Sophia Nahli Allison. Her upcoming installation and photo essay will be featured in Fall, 2013 at Columbia College Chicago (details at www.chicagograduation.tumblr.com). Her work explores the lives of Chicago's youth and how they have been affected by the violence epidemic here in the city. Photographing every school attended by a victim of violence beginning in 2006 with the death of 14-year-old honor roll student Starkeisa Reed, these images will be presented in a grid of more than 100 schools creating an overwhelming and haunting realization that hundreds of youth have lost their lives to violence. Accompanying the piece will be audio and text commentary from youth creating a platform for their stories, opinions and voices to be heard. With a background in teaching artistry, youth mentorship, and photo journalism, my interview with Sophia highlights some of the hot-button issues affecting the "slashers": creatives who live on both sides of the artist/educator line.

Welcome to Episode 18 of Artists Mean Business. This February we celebrate a heroine of the Chicago visual arts scene: Stephanie Dawn Burke. As an artist, her photography shows audiences unseen, although sometimes disturbing, moments in time. However, in this episode I talk with Stephanie about what it takes to be both artist and arts blogger. For those involved in Chicago's "art scene", Stephanie's blog "The Gallery Crawl and so much more..." has become a staple in our cultural diet. If you have yet to experience The Gallery Crawl, I suggest you get familiar... www.chicagonow.com/art-talk-chicago

This month I sat down with world renown photographer, educator, and multimedia artist Matt Siber. Getting his start as a commercial artist, Siber has explored a variety of media and worn more hats than he can count. What does Matt say is the one thing every artist entrepreneur needs to sustain their professional practice? Listen in and find out. There are no mistakes, asserts Siber, only serendipitous discoveries! To learn more or contact Matt Siber visit www.siberart.com

Welcome to Episode 16 of Artists Mean Business. This week I met with artist, entrepreneur, and designer extraordinaire Mattie Vandersteen, founder of MattieMade. Mattie has been hitting the Chicago craft fair scene hard, making a splash with her ecofelt onsies. She shares her experiences as a craft artist and what she wishes she had done differently. Listen in to hear best practices and how Mattie is stepping up her game after learning lessons learned the hard way. To see Mattie's designs for yourself visit, www.mattiemade.com

Welcome to Episode 14 of Artists Mean Business. This week I sat down with young entrepreneur and networking maven Rachel Cherny of Rachel Street Press. You know what they say, big things come in small packages! I'm referring to her business cards of course! Rachel is my go-to when I need anything print-related, so its only natural I have her on the show. This self-started has some great times for anyone in a creative industry job who has always dreamed to start their own business. She has one,very simply piece of advice. Network with a purpose. What does that mean? Listen to the podcast and find out. Mention you heard Rachel on the Artist Mean Business podcast and get a discount on your first set of business cards or fliers. www.Rachelstreet.com

Welcome to Episode 13 of Artists Mean Business. This week, rather than focusing on an individual artist, I have instead focused on one organization in particular, LINKS HALL. Dance and performing artists listen up...this one is for you. In this episode I speak with Shawn Lent and Debra Giunta - members of Links Hall's Associates Board. We discuss what it means to be involved in a junior or auxiliary board. Its not just about what you can do for the organization, but also what that organization can do for you. Listen in to hear why volunteering might be the next best thing for your own professional development as an artist or arts administrator. Also, don't miss your chance to attend THAW - a night of burlesque and wild performances. Proceeds from this event go toward supporting contemporary works at Links Hall. Be sure to get your ticket before this event sells out. March 22nd @ Dank House 4740 N. Western Ave Chicago, IL http://linkshallthaw2012.eventbrite.com/

Welcome to Episode 11 of "Artists Mean Business" with Jess Kaswiner. The talented Nat Soti Joined me for this nutrient rich podcast. Listen in for a truly entrepreneurial artist who started his own business and art gallery. Now in its 10th year, Chicago Art Department is the foundation of Pilsen art scene, and a formidable collective of artists. What Nat believes to be the key "tool" for upcoming artists is not a skill or degree, but the ability to learn new practices. Listen as he shares lessons learned on his road to success. Make sure to check out his business Zero One Projects, and the Chicago Art Department websites for upcoming events, openings, and news! http://www.01projects.com/ http://www.chicagoartdepartment.org

Welcome to Episode 10 of "Artists Mean Business" with Jess Kaswiner. After many months of scheduling snafus, we finally found time to connect. Tom's career as a painter and artist shows that talent and dedication truly do trump all. As the creative hand behind one of my all time favorite political satire blogs, The Daily Punch, Tom takes cartooning to a whole new level. His cartoons make you think but his paintings make you look. Ever humble, Tom offers invaluable advice for new comers to the Chicago arts scene. "Do the work", its simple as that, he says, "Be where you want to show". Listen to the full podcast to hear more, and remember to check out his lively blog, The Daily Punch at tomtorluemke.blogspot.com.

Welcome to Episode 9 of "Artists Mean Business" with Jess Kaswiner. I'm here after hours with Nicole Garneau, the creative mind behind the Uprising Series! We discuss what it means to live multiple lives, as artist, cultural worker, bread winner, etc. Nicole's incites offer a "this-is-how-it-is" approach, if you want to make successful art. For Nicole, success is not about how many people her works impacts, as much as its about the impact impact itself. Her words of wisdom are invaluable for anyone trying to "make it" as an artist and struggling with the age old notion of wearing multiple hats. Nicole Garneau was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1970. She has a background in theater and is currently a performance artist based in Chicago. Nicole’s work is informed by feminism; struggle against white supremacy; the politics of the female body; sexuality; spirituality; violence against women and children; the prison-industrial complex; the death penalty; her experiences living and working in Moscow, Russia; and the 1995 Chicago heat wave disaster. She is interested in creating performance and visual art work that is directly political, critically conscious, and community building. She works in the Center for Community Arts Partnerships and is adjunct faculty at Columbia College Chicago. Check her out this Wednesday, October 20th at Chicago Parlor on Clark at 11pm for Uprising #34, "Come As You Are". For more information on The Uprising series, visit, http://www.nicolegarneau.com or email Nicole directly at nicolegarneau13@sbcglobal.com.

Welcome to Episode 8 of "Artists Mean Business" with Jess Kaswiner. Taking time away from our busy schedule at the One State in the Arts Conference in Bloomington, I sat down with Kevin Coval, Spoken Word artist and co-founder of Louder Than a Bomb. We chatted about what it takes to start an art education program in this city and what it means to stay 'fresh' with your pedagogy. Download the podcast to hear Kevin's take on how Chicago schools can start improving arts education today to build successful artists for the future. Kevin Coval's work inspires youth where they live and meets them on their turf; often juxtaposing historical poets with contemporary hip-hop artists. His work as a poet and author have earned him national recognition, serving as poet-in-residence at The Jane Addams’ Hull House Museum at The University of Illinois-Chicago and poet-in-residence at The University of Chicago’s Newberger Hillel Center. Check out the film 'Louder Than a Bomb' or be on the look out for his upcoming book, "L-vis Lives: Racemusic Poems"

Welcome to Episode 6 of "Artists Mean Business" with Jess Kaswiner. This week I met with the founders of Sixty Inches from Center, Nicolette Caldwell and Tempestt Hazel. We discuss what it takes to start a bold new project in the contemporary art world, regardless of the skepticism that may surround us. These women are a powerhouse to be reckoned with when it comes to grassroots and underground art happenings in Chicago; there is no doubt we will be seeing more of them in the not to distant future. To learn more about Sixty Inches from Center, visit www.sixtyinchesfromcenter.org and be sure to follow them all summer long for the WBEZ off-air series, "What is your Art" which kicks off on June 4th at the Chicago Cultural Center. Questions about SIFC? Want to participate, collaborate, and engage...contact info@sixtyinchesfromcenter.org or on Twitter @fromthecenter. Thank you to Vladimir Zaytsev for photographing our interview, for Greenhouse Theater Center for the space to conduct the recording, and for all of my dedicated listeners... PLEASE CONTINUE SHARING THE LINK... I'd love your feedback! Contact me at jkaswiner@gmail.com with any questions, comments, or suggestions!

Welcome to Jess Kaswiner's "Artists Mean Business" Podcast Episode 5. This week I meet with Janice Bond of SAVANT/SAVANT, sitting in the fabulous space at Creative Lounge in Wicker Park: the location for this Saturday's MO:Global POPs event (2-8pm). Listen in as I grill this entrepreneurial maven about how she started her own business as artist representative and branding consultant. If you want to meet someone who walks the walk and talks the talk, I'd suggest you attend one of her events to get a glimpse of what she is all about. There is nothing half ass about this woman, she is truly a SAVANT when it comes to arts entrepreneurship. Don't forget to check out her website at www.SAVANTSAVANT.com and visit us this Saturday for MO:Global POPs at the Creative Lounge (1564 N. Damen Ave. 3rd floor) from 2-8... LIVE music, Dj's Art, fashion...AND MORE!

Welcome to Jess Kaswiner's "Artists Mean Business" Podcast Episode 4. This week I interview Paul Klein, Founder of Klein Artist Works here in Chicago. In this episode Paul has subtly suggested a more organic format for our interview. So listen in as we get into the nitty gritty of what it takes to "make it" in the visual arts community. Also, don't forget to check out Klein Artists Works at www.kleinartistsworks.com and www.artletter.com to gain an inside track to the Chicago arts 'scene' with Paul Klein.

Welcome to Jess Kaswiner's "Artists Mean Business" Podcast Episode 3. This week I interview Abra Johnson and Meida McNeal, Co-Curators for the upcoming "To Art and Profit" festival. In this episode I chatted with these two inspiring women who saw a need in the arts community and made their vision a reality. I am looking forward to their kickoff performance March 18th at Links hall, followed by the opening celebration, March 25th at the Defibrillator. This PARTY is not to be missed; we will be celebrating the opening of To Art and Profit and fundraising for the artists participating in the festival. Check it out at: http://toartandprofit.wordpress.com/ Continue to tune in each episode to learn from those who have made successful careers in the arts and who can offer valuable advice. This free podcast is sponsored by The Institute for Arts Entrepreneurship.

Welcome to Jess Kaswiner's "Artists Mean Business" podcast Episode 2. This week we interview Meg Duguid, interdisciplinary artist and curator. We've got a new look with the same great taste! Learn from our veteran artist as she shares her experiences with emerging artists, Listen in to learn from those who have made successful careers in the arts and who can offer valuable advice. For more info about Meg and her practice visit: http://megduguid.com/home.html

Welcome to Jess Kaswiner's podcast, where she interviews veteran arts entrepreneurs in the Chicagoland area! Listen in to learn from those who have made successful careers in the arts and who can offer valuable advice to emerging arts leaders. For more information about Nancy Plummer and her fashion consulting services check out: www.finethreadschicago.com