AART

In this episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with acclaimed American trompe l’oeil painter Natalie Featherston, a Charlotte, North Carolina–based artist known for her extraordinary ability to create hyper-realistic paintings that challenge the viewer’s perception of reality. Natalie specializes in the centuries-old technique of trompe l’oeil, a style of painting designed to “deceive the eye” by creating the illusion of three-dimensional objects on a flat surface. Through meticulous observation, careful composition, and masterful control of light, texture, and detail, her work blurs the boundary between painting and reality.

During this in-depth conversation, Natalie shares the story behind her artistic journey, from discovering her passion for realism to developing the highly disciplined skills required to paint convincing visual illusions. From the world of classical music as an accomplished cellist performing in Carnegie Hall and across Europe as a soloist and chamber musician to an accomplished artist.
Listeners will learn how she approaches composition, builds layered textures, and captures subtle details that make everyday objects appear tangible on canvas. The discussion also explores the influence of classical realism, and how contemporary artists like Natalie are keeping this fascinating art form alive in the modern art world.

Chris and Natalie also talk about the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in fine art, including building a professional reputation, exhibiting work, and connecting with collectors who appreciate the technical mastery and conceptual playfulness of illusionistic painting. Natalie reflects on the patience, precision, and curiosity required to sustain a creative life and explains why trompe l’oeil continues to captivate audiences centuries after its origins.

Whether you are an artist, art student, collector, or simply someone fascinated by hyper-realistic painting and visual perception, this episode offers a compelling look into the creative process behind one of the most technically demanding forms of representational art. Discover how Natalie Featherston transforms ordinary objects into extraordinary works of illusion and learn what it takes to master the timeless craft of trompe l’oeil painting.

Tune in to the AART Podcast with Chris Stafford to explore the artistry, dedication, and imagination behind Natalie’s fascinating career and the enduring power of painting to trick the eye and stimulate curiosity.

Natalie’s links:
Website link: https://nataliefeatherston.com/
Instagram link: nfeatherston_fine_art 

Favorite female artists: 
Frida Kahlo
Rachel Ruysch
Audrey Flack
Maggie Taylor 

Natalie’s dinner party guests:
Stephen King
Michelle Obama
Frida Khalo
Mozart
Amy Poehler
Bu Scherf 

Keywords:
Natalie Featherston, trompe l’oeil artist, trompe l’oeil painting, hyperrealism painting, realistic painting techniques, illusionistic painting, contemporary realism artist, Charlotte North Carolina artist, trompe l’oeil art history, hyperrealistic art, American realist painters, fine art podcast, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford podcast, contemporary still life painting, art technique podcast, realism painting methods, visual illusion art, professional artist interview, painting process and technique. 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
AART on Facebook
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

A Hollowell Studios Production
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

In this episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with Canadian hyperrealism artist Erin Rothstein for an in-depth conversation about her artistic journey, creative process, and the discipline behind creating incredibly lifelike works of art. Known for her strikingly detailed paintings that blur the line between photography and painting, Rothstein has built a reputation as a leading voice in contemporary hyperrealism.

Erin Rothstein’s work captures everyday subjects with extraordinary precision, transforming ordinary moments into visually powerful pieces that challenge viewers to reconsider how they see the world. Through careful observation, technical mastery, and a deep understanding of light, texture, and form, Rothstein creates paintings that appear almost indistinguishable from photographs while still retaining the emotional depth of traditional fine art. During this conversation, Rothstein shares insights into how she first discovered her passion for art and the influences that shaped her career as a professional artist in Canada. She discusses the dedication and patience required to produce hyperrealistic paintings, the tools and techniques she relies on, and the challenges that come with pursuing such a meticulous style. From sketching and reference photography to layering paint and refining the smallest details, Rothstein explains the process behind bringing her subjects to life on canvas. Erin also explains the broader world of hyperrealism, including how the movement has evolved in modern contemporary art, the differences between photorealism and hyperrealism, and why audiences continue to be captivated by artwork that pushes the boundaries of visual realism. Rothstein reflects on the role of social media, galleries, and collectors in helping artists build sustainable careers today, as well as the importance of persistence and authenticity in the creative journey. 

Whether you are an artist, art student, collector, or simply someone fascinated by the intersection of technical skill and creative vision, this episode offers a fascinating look into the life and work of one of Canada’s most compelling hyperrealism painters. Erin Rothstein’s story highlights the dedication behind mastering a demanding artistic style and the passion that drives artists to create work that resonates with audiences around the world.

Tune in to the AART Podcast with Chris Stafford to hear Erin Rothstein discuss her inspirations, creative philosophy, and the path that led her to become a recognized hyperrealism artist.

Erin’s links:
Website: [email protected]
Instagram: @erinrothstein 

Erin’s dinner party guests:
Picasso
Catherine O’Hara
Cheryl Strayed 
Ram Dass
Bob Dylan
Princess Diana 

Some of Erin’s favorite female artists:
Cecily Brown
Jenny Saville
CJ Hendry
Lauren Williams
Artemisia Gentileschi
Hilma Af Klint
Berthe Morisot, 

Keywords:
Erin Rothstein, hyperrealism artist, Canadian hyperrealism painter, Erin Rothstein art, hyperrealistic painting, photorealism vs hyperrealism, contemporary hyperrealism artists, realistic painting techniques, fine art podcast, artist interview podcast, contemporary Canadian artist, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford podcast, hyperrealism art process, how hyperrealism paintings are made, modern realism art, contemporary art podcast, artist career stories, art inspiration, professional painter interview.

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
AART on Facebook
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

A Hollowell Studios Production
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

In this fascinating episode host Chris explores a very different art form when she meets American concrete artist Liz Nichols for a biographical conversation that explores her life, her career in the trades, and creative evolution. From transforming one of the most industrial materials in the world into expressive, tactile works of art, Liz Nichols has carved out a unique space within contemporary American art. From her early influences and formative years to the pivotal moments that shaped her artistic voice, Liz shares how she found her medium in concrete — a material traditionally associated with construction, strength, and permanence — and reimagined it as a vehicle for beauty, storytelling, and emotional depth. This episode dives into the discipline, physicality, and inspiration behind her work, as well as the resilience required to follow her passion outside her construction work in a male-dominated field.
 
Chris and Liz discuss the challenges and breakthroughs that defined her journey, the evolution of her aesthetic, and how she balances craftsmanship with conceptual expression. Listeners will gain insight into the technical demands of working with concrete, the creative risks involved in large-scale sculptural work, and the mindset needed to sustain a life in the arts.
 
This conversation explores identity, perseverance, and what it truly means to construct a life around creativity. Whether you're an artist, art collector, creative entrepreneur, or simply fascinated by stories of reinvention and determination, this episode offers an inspiring look at how unconventional materials can become the foundation for meaningful artistic expression.
 
Tune in to hear Liz Nichols reflect on the intersections of art and industry, the importance of mentorship and opportunity, and her vision for the future of contemporary concrete art. This is a candid and compelling portrait of an artist who builds not just with material, but with intention.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Watch on YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

Liz is on Instagram @graydaygoods 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
AART on Facebook
Email: [email protected] 

Keywords:
Liz Nichols, American concrete artist, contemporary concrete art, concrete sculpture, female sculptor in America, women in sculpture, industrial materials in art, contemporary American artist interview, artist biography podcast, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford AART, art career journey, creative entrepreneurship, sculptural concrete design, female artist story, modern sculpture, architectural art, artistic resilience, art and industry, women in construction art, biographical artist conversation, contemporary sculptor interview.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

A Hollowell Studios Production
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

In this powerful and intimate episode of the AART Podcast, host Chris Stafford sits down with Austrian contemporary artist Katherina Olschbaur for a biographical conversation about her life, creative evolution, and the emotional force behind her large-scale figurative paintings. Known for her psychologically charged works that blur the boundaries between vulnerability and strength, Olschbaur has established herself as a compelling voice in contemporary European painting. Born in Austria, living in New York and now exhibiting internationally, Katherina Olschbaur creates raw, dreamlike compositions that explore identity, human connection, power, intimacy, and the subconscious. Her paintings often depict intertwined figures suspended in ambiguous spaces—scenes that feel both tender and unsettling. In this episode, she shares the personal history that shaped her visual language, how growing up in Austria influenced her worldview, and the pivotal moments that defined her path as an artist. This is not a technical deep dive into materials or process—it is a human story. Chris and Katherina explore the emotional courage required to pursue a life in contemporary art, the psychological layers within her work, and the tension between control and chaos that drives her compositions. Olschbaur reflects on navigating the international art world, developing her voice, and embracing vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. Listeners will gain insight into the inner life of a contemporary painter working today—how personal memory, relationships, and internal conflict become visual narratives on canvas. Whether you are an artist, collector, curator, or simply someone drawn to expressive figurative art, this episode offers an honest look at what it means to dedicate your life to creative truth. If you’re interested in Austrian contemporary art, figurative painting, women artists in Europe, emotional storytelling through art, or the psychology behind powerful visual work, this conversation with Katherina Olschbaur is not to be missed.

Katherina's links:
http://www.katherinaolschbaur.com
Instagram: @kat_olschbaur 

Some of Katherina's favorite femail artists:
Artemisia Gentilesci 
Nan Goldin
Cecily Brown
Maria Lassnig
Leonor Fini
Wangechi Mutu
Ulrike Ottinger 
Ambera Wellmann 

Keywords
Katherina Olschbaur, Austrian contemporary artist, Austrian painter, contemporary figurative painting, European contemporary art, women in contemporary art, female contemporary painters, expressive figurative art, psychological painting, large-scale figurative works, modern Austrian artists, emotional storytelling in art, identity in contemporary painting, vulnerability and power in art, contemporary European painters, international art exhibitions, artist biography podcast, art world interview, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford, contemporary art conversation, visual narrative painting, fine art podcast episode, modern figurative expression, contemporary canvas work, artist life and career story, art collector interest, emerging European art voices, contemporary art discussion. 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
AART on Facebook
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

A Hollowell Studios Production
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved

In this episode of the AART, host Chris Stafford sits down with American film and television professional Nica Fazio for an honest, wide-ranging biographical conversation about her life, career, and personal journey working behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. Rather than focusing on technical details, this episode explores the human story behind a career spent on set—how Nica found her way into film and television, what drew her to the work, and how years in the industry shaped her identity, resilience, and outlook on life.Nica shares reflections on growing up, discovering creative communities, and navigating the realities of working in a demanding, often unpredictable industry. She talks about the challenges and rewards of life behind the camera, the importance of collaboration, and the relationships formed on set that leave a lasting mark long after the lights go down. Through personal stories and candid insights, Nica opens up about perseverance, adaptability, and the quieter moments that define a career not always seen by audiences. This episode of AART is about more than film and television—it’s about finding purpose, learning to trust your instincts, and building a meaningful life through creative work. Whether you’re an artist, filmmaker, or simply curious about the people who bring stories to life behind the scenes, this conversation offers a thoughtful and inspiring look at what it means to commit to a path and grow along the way.
 
Nica’s links:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9717608/
 https://www.instagram.com/nica.fazio/
https://www.instagram.com/nicafaziophoto/
 
Nica's dinner party guests:
My grandpa
Ellen Kuras
Ava Duvernay
Lisa Kudrow
Amy Winehouse
Alejandro González Iñárritu 

Some of Nica’s favorite women artists:
Elisa Capdevila (muralist from Barcelona she is amazing) 
Pixy Liao (photographer) 
Helen Levitt (photographer)
Rina Yang (DP)
Marjan Teeuwen (large scale architecture installations) 
Miska Mohmmed (abstract painting) 

Host: Chris Stafford
Produced by Hollowell Studios
Follow @theaartpodcast on Instagram
Email: [email protected] 

Keywords Nica Fazio, AART Podcast, Chris Stafford podcast, film and television careers, women in film, behind the scenes film industry, film crew stories, creative career journeys, life in film and TV, entertainment industry biography, film podcast interview, personal stories from set life, American film professionals, storytelling behind the camera

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aart--5814675/support.

A Hollowell Studios Production
Instagram: @theaartpodcast 
Email: [email protected]
© Copyright: Chris Stafford | Hollowell Studios
All Rights Reserved