In this episode, Tammy Honaman speaks with Robert Lopez, a multifaceted artist and metalsmith, about his creative journey, the importance of originality, and the risks involved in artistic expression. Robert shares his evolution from lapidary to jewelry making, the significance of community support, and how his art reflects his personal experiences. They discuss the challenges of balancing life and art, the innovative tools Robert has developed, and his aspirations for the future.
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1:01:35
The Creative Force of Nature: Julianna Avelar on Passion, Product, and Purpose
From trade shows to TV studios, beading to business—Julianna Avelar has done it all. In this heartfelt episode, she shares how the Jewel Loom came to life, why pricing your work is essential, and the emotional rollercoaster of creative entrepreneurship. Real talk, inspiring insights, and a whole lot of love for the maker community.
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1:02:57
Embracing Imperfection and Creative Evolution with Katie Hacker
Katie Hacker joins Tamara Honaman to share her insights on authenticity, managing creative businesses, and embracing imperfection in your artistic journey. Tune in to rediscover joy in your creative practice!Actionable Takeaways:• Give yourself permission to explore creatively without pressure to monetize every hobby.• Prioritize mental health and well-being, especially in times of professional transition.• Embrace imperfection—authenticity resonates more deeply than polished perfection.
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1:02:55
Celebrating Creativity and Connection with the Upper Midwest Bead Society
Explore how beads bring people together with Jan Carlson and Rochelle Peterson from the Upper Midwest Bead Society.Celebrating 35 years of creativity, connection, and more!Join us as we discuss:• The society’s pivot to virtual meetings during COVID-19 and its new digital offerings.• Monthly programming like "Let’s Bead Live" and retreats designed to foster creativity and connection.• The incredible network of bead artists, including 18 published members and founder Diane Fitzgerald.• Celebrating 35 years of creativity and innovation, featuring crowns, sashes, and collaborative projects.• Fundraising efforts that keep membership accessible and programming vibrant.
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53:20
Brenda Schweder: The Vital Role of Art in Society
Brenda Schweder is a recombobulator of found objects into wearable sculpture and objet d’art. A queen of the coldest of cold connection techniques, her schtick is combining disparate stuff and quasi-trash into wacky new works with whimsical and joyous narratives.
In this engaging conversation, Tamara Honaman and Brenda
Schweder explore the significance of art in our lives, the evolution of Brenda's creative journey, and the impact of social media on artistic expression. They discuss the challenges of balancing personal passions with responsibilities, the importance of self-expression, and how art can serve as a healing tool. The dialogue emphasizes the need for creativity in everyday life and the value of community support in the maker space.
Are you looking for creative inspiration? Feel you’re in an artistic slump? Want to turn your passion into a business? Are you hoping to be published? Excited to grow your social media so you can attract new people to your online store?
The "HEART & HANDS OF A MAKER" podcast is a live-workshop style conversation you can listen to for answers to these questions and so much more! Whether you're an established creative maker seeking inspiration or someone just starting out on their creative journey, learn about the creative path and challenges each of our guests have faced.