Behind the Studio Door

In this exciting second half of our live podcast recording at the Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo), we dive deeper into the vibrant and diverse 6x6 exhibition. Hosts Christian Rivera, Molly Darling, and producer Chris Lindstrom chat with artists and attendees alike, uncovering personal stories and creative processes that fuel this unique art experience. From Carmela Casuccio, an artist rediscovering Rochester’s art scene, to Unique Fair, an educator pioneering accessible oil painting techniques, this episode captures the spirit of collaboration and freedom that 6x6 fosters.We also hear from new voices like Soul and Z, a duo of visual and musical artists who share their journey through creative expression in shared spaces, and Michelle Miller, an art therapist whose collage work finds home at the exhibition. The episode wraps up with insights from Bleu Cease, RoCo's Director, who reflects on the community-driven energy that makes this annual event thrive. Tune in to explore the intersection of art, community, and personal discovery in this special live edition of Behind the Studio Door!

In this captivating episode of Behind the Studio Door, hosts Molly Darling and Christian Rivera sit down with interdisciplinary artist Hayley Davis to discuss her unique approach to painting using natural, foraged pigments from the Colombian landscape. A Rochester native, Hayley spends half of each year in Colombia, where she collects vibrant earth pigments from riverbeds, construction sites, and volcanic soils. These materials, rich in color and history, serve as the foundation for her stunning artworks that explore the profound connection between humans and the natural world.Hayley shares the fascinating story of how her journey into earth pigments began, from her early experiments in Oaxaca, Mexico, to learning about traditional Colombian pigment-gathering techniques passed down through generations. She also delves into how her art bridges the cultural gap between Colombia and the United States, addressing ecological themes and the complex duality of beauty and extraction in her work.Tune in to learn more about Hayley’s process of blending art and storytelling, her thoughts on the relationship between people and the earth, and her current exhibition, Colombian Riches, at The Yards Art Collective through the month of September. Mentioned in this episode: Sweet Pea Plant Based KitchenBased in Rochester, NY, Sweet Pea is a plant-powered kitchen creating transformative ways of wellness. Harnessing the power of food as medicine, we help you realize your happiest, healthiest self. Use promo code Lunchador15 for 15% off your order! https://sweetpeaplantbased.comLevel Up Coffee PodcastLevel Up your coffee game. Wade Reed and Aaron Pascucci, two coffee professionals discuss coffee and the culture surrounding it. https://levelupcoffee.captivate.fm/

In this episode of Behind the Studio Door, hosts Molly Darling and Christian Rivera, along with producer Chris Lindstrom, sit down with Jo, the founder of The Op Shop in Rochester's East End. Jo shares her inspiring journey from a nine-to-five job to creating a vibrant space for sustainable fashion and community connection.Jo discusses the origins of The Op Shop, how it grew from a small pop-up into a beloved hub for vintage and handmade fashion, and the challenges she faced along the way. She opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of community support, and her passion for sustainability. Jo also highlights the creative collaborations that make The Op Shop unique and offers a glimpse into the future of this thriving space.You can find out more about The Op Shop on their website: https://www.theopshoproc.comMentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. Use promo code Lunchador for 15% off your order! https://shop.joebeanroasters.comRefined Taste with Dario & ChrisWeekly Live show where comedians Dario Joseph and Chris Thompson talk and laugh with representatives of Rochester, New York’s food and drink scene.

In this special live episode of "Behind the Studio Door," we bring you to the heart of Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo) for the vibrant opening night of the annual 6x6 exhibition on First Friday. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the buzz of this unique event, chatting with a diverse array of attendees and participants, including the visionary director of RoCo, Bleu Cease.Experience the excitement and creativity that fill the air as artists and art enthusiasts from all walks of life come together to celebrate this beloved community showcase. Discover the stories behind the tiny masterpieces that make up the 6x6 exhibition, hear firsthand accounts from contributors, and gain insights into the dynamic world of RoCo. Whether you were there in person or are tuning in from afar, this episode captures the essence of an unforgettable night dedicated to art, community, and connection.Special thanks to Bleu Cease, The Rochester Contemporary Art Center and everyone who contributed to this episode! Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.comMind of MagnusArtist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

In this episode of "Behind the Studio Door," host Molly Darling and producer Chris Lindstrom sit down with Bleu Cease, the director of the Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo). Bleu shares his journey with RoCo, from its early days as the Pyramid Art Center to becoming a key cultural space in downtown Rochester. He delves into the history of the artist space movement, RoCo's evolution, and the challenges and triumphs of running an art center. Bleu also discusses the importance of community support, curatorial practices, and the impactful projects RoCo has undertaken, such as the 6x6 exhibition and the biennial initiative, Current Scene. Tune in to hear Bleu's insights on fostering collaboration, supporting local artists, and advocating for the arts in Rochester.https://www.rochestercontemporary.org/Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.comRefined Taste with Dario & ChrisWeekly Live show where comedians Dario Joseph and Chris Thompson talk and laugh with representatives of Rochester, New York’s food and drink scene.

In this episode of Behind the Studio Door, hosts Molly Darling and Christian Rivera, along with producer Chris Lindstrom, dive into a lively conversation with interdisciplinary artist Susan Begy. Susan, who explores themes of humanity, power dynamics, and cooperation through her graphite drawings and stone sculptures, shares insights into her creative process and the evolution of her work. The discussion touches on her innovative Entanglement Project, a 33-foot-long drawing connecting members of the creative community, and her experiences moving between mediums and places like Los Angeles and Brooklyn before returning to Rochester. Susan's dedication to nurturing and collaboration shines through as she talks about her future projects, including the potential revival of her Art Collision and Repair Shop. Tune in to hear more about Susan’s artistic journey and her passion for fostering community connections.You can find more about Su's work here: https://www.susanbegy.com/aboutMentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.comPauly Guglielmo ShowPauly Guglielmo is a former radio guy turned food business entrepreneur. While running a manufacturing facility is his day job, he likes to dust off his broadcasting skills once a week on this podcast and talk to entrepreneurs and other influencers. https://pauly-guglielmo-show.captivate.fm/

In this episode of Behind the Studio Door, hosts Molly Darling and Christian Rivera, along with producer Chris Lindstrom, welcome Erich Lehman, the curator behind Rochester’s 1975 Gallery and the driving force behind Wall Therapy. Erich shares the journey of founding the 1975 Gallery, a space that has significantly shaped the city's cultural landscape. From its beginnings as a dare to its evolution into a cornerstone of Rochester's art scene, Eric’s story is one of passion, community, and relentless dedication. He also delves into the origins of Wall Therapy, an initiative that brings large-scale public art to the city, fostering both artistic expression and community healing. Tune in to hear Erich’s insights on the intersections of art, community, and the power of daring to pursue your dreams. Sketchy! The Art and Creativity of Skateboarding - (June 7 - August 4) https://1975ish.com/sketchy/Mentioned in this episode:Punches & PopcornThe masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D’Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films. https://punches-and-popcorn.captivate.fm/Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Join us for an inspiring episode of "Behind the Studio Door" as we dive into the world of multimedia artist and educator Taylor Kennedy. Originally from Sodus Point, New York, Taylor's work explores themes of childhood, domesticity, womanhood, and middle-class life through large-scale ephemeral installations. She candidly shares her unique, non-academic approach to creativity, integrating personal memories and narratives into her art. Taylor also reflects on her role as an educator, the influence of her grandmother's textiles, and her fearless experimentation with diverse mediums. Her insights on community, generosity, and the sensory experiences that shape her work provide a rich, engaging conversation you won't want to miss.Find Taylor on Instagram @taymkennedy to stay connected with her latest works and upcoming projects.Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.comBehind the GlassBehind the Glass, hosted by Richard B Colón and Quajay Donnell, is a monthly talk with the current month’s BTG Roster. Artists are interviewed about their submissions and we dive deep into their process, inspiration and thought process centralized around their artwork in the Behind the Glass Gallery located in the heart of Downtown Rochester NY. https://behind-the-glass-gallery.captivate.fm/

Join hosts Molly Darling and Christian Rivera on this episode of "Behind the Studio Door" as they delve into the "Myth of the Artist Personality." Together, they challenge the stereotypical notions that often define who can or cannot be considered an artist. Through personal anecdotes and lively discussions, they examine how appearances and societal expectations shape our understanding of artistic identity. This episode explores why many individuals might hesitate to label themselves as artists due to these pervasive stereotypes. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that seeks to expand the definition of what it means to be creative and encourages listeners to embrace their own unique artistic expressions, free from the constraints of conventional labels.Mentioned in this episode:Level Up Coffee PodcastLevel Up your coffee game. Wade Reed and Aaron Pascucci, two coffee professionals discuss coffee and the culture surrounding it. https://levelupcoffee.captivate.fm/Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Join us on today's episode of Behind the Studio Door as host Molly Darling, cohost Christian Rivera, and producer Chris Lindstrom welcome the incredibly versatile artist Nala Ward. In today’s episode, Nala shares an intimate look at her multifaceted journey as a poet and visual artist. She discusses how her personal experiences and emotions significantly influence her creative output, revealing the deep interconnection between her emotional state and her artistic expressions.Nala also explores the vital role of community in her artistry. From her beginnings at the College of Brockport to her current engagements within the Rochester art scene, she reflects on how interactions with other artists and community members have shaped her work and pushed her creative boundaries.Follow Nala : https://www.instagram.com/grungeleslieknope/Mentioned in this episode:Mind of MagnusArtist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Join us on this episode of Behind the Studio Door as we dive into the dynamic world of professional wrestling with Matt, owner of Ground Zero Wrestling School in Rochester, NY. Known as the "Young Lion of the West," Matt brings his 11-year wrestling journey and insights into the creative and theatrical elements that fuel the sport. Discover how wrestling's narrative depth and character development captivate fans, and learn about Matt's path to starting his own wrestling school after training with WWE ECW star Colin Delaney. This episode explores the intersections of creativity, performance art, and athletics in the often misunderstood world of wrestling.Buy tickets to Ground Zero Part 2! http://www.groundzerowrestling.com/Mentioned in this episode:Refined Taste with Dario & ChrisWeekly Live show where comedians Dario Joseph and Chris Thompson talk and laugh with representatives of Rochester, New York’s food and drink scene.Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

In this cozy episode of Behind the Studio Door, join me, Molly Darling, my co-host Christian Rivera, and our ever-enthusiastic producer Chris Lindstrom as we get real about what collaboration means in the world of creativity. It’s a rainy day here in Rochester, perfect for deep talks and honest reflections. Today, we’re breaking down the true essence of collaboration, setting it apart from the unpaid labor and scope creep that too often plague creative work. We’ll share our own experiences—the good, the bad, and the tricky—and discuss how real collaboration should work, emphasizing trust, mutual value, and clear boundaries. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for years, this conversation aims to enhance how you think about working with others in the creative sphere. Grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s navigate the complexities of collaboration together. Cheers! Mentioned in this episode:Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

On a recent episode of our podcast, "Behind the Studio Door," we had the pleasure of diving into the artistic life of Kristy Guenther, a talented wildlife painter based in Rochester, New York. Kristy’s passion for nature and art radiates through her vibrant acrylic paintings, which she creates on both canvas and paper. During our conversation, she gave us a glimpse into her daily routine, which starts with slow mornings and transitions into focused painting sessions at her studio located in the historic Yards Art Collective.Kristy also opened up about the depth of research that goes into each piece, from understanding animal behaviors to capturing the details of their habitats. Her commitment to her craft and her connection to the local art community enrich her work and ground her artistic practice. Listening to Kristy share her journey was not only inspiring but also a reminder of the vibrant local art scene here in Rochester. Her dedication to blending creativity with community engagement makes her a standout voice in the world of art.Mentioned in this episode:Food About TownFood About Town hosted by Chris Lindstrom, focusing on restaurants, food and drink of all kinds, and whatever topics I want to cover! https://foodabouttown.captivate.fm/Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

In today's episode of Behind the Studio Door, we're chatting with the inspiring Shawn Dunwoody. From the community collaborative projects to the colorful murals brightening the city, Shawn embodies the spirit of creativity and change. His multidisciplinary work weaves a thread of connection and transformation throughout Rochester. Despite the lighthearted banter and playful moments shared on the podcast, the depth of Shawn's commitment to his community and artistry is unmistakable. As he humorously navigates discussions ranging from potential luge adventures to profound insights on creativity and leadership, Shawn reveals a rich tapestry of experiences and ambitions. His journey, marked by both challenges and triumphs, underscores the power of art to unite, inspire, and enact meaningful change. You can find more about Shawn and his projects here: https://www.dunwoode.design and https://www.instagram.com/shawndunwoody Mentioned in this episode:Pauly Guglielmo ShowPauly Guglielmo is a former radio guy turned food business entrepreneur. While running a manufacturing facility is his day job, he likes to dust off his broadcasting skills once a week on this podcast and talk to entrepreneurs and other influencers. https://pauly-guglielmo-show.captivate.fm/Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

In this special episode of Behind the Studio Door, we chat with a truly unique and inspiring guest, Taegan West. Described as a community weaver and a healing modalities expert, Taegan's passion and expertise in astrology, dance, and ancient healing practices are front and center. Taegan’s belief in the power of community and creativity as intertwined forces for personal and collective transformation shines through every word. Through a conversation that weaves together the threads of individual experiences with the collective soul, Taegan illuminates the essence of creative expression as a birthright and a tool for deep, personal mythology. This episode is a journey into the heart of creativity, community, and the ancient practices that connect us to each other and the world we're nested in. You can find more about Taegan and her work here: https://thealtarhealing.com Mentioned in this episode:Lunchador Podcast NetworkLunchador Podcast Network is a network of podcasts originating in Rochester, NY. Our goal is bringing creative people together to be a positive force in the arts community. The shows that make up Lunchador are owned by the creators and cover a wide range of topics and backgrounds. http://lunchador.org/Joe Bean RoastersJoe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

In this insightful episode of BTSD, Molly Darling, Christian Rivera, our producer Chris dive into the world of Rivkah Simcha, an artist from Rochester who excels in a range of mediums, including performance art with The Velvet Noose. Rivka opens up about the art of parenting, her contributions to the local art scene, and her position at the Memorial Art Gallery, painting a vivid picture of Rochester's vibrant creative community.Our conversation navigates the intricacies of merging art with daily life, touching on Rivka's strategies for balancing her passion with personal responsibilities. She shares her explorations in art, touching on themes like grief, transformation, and beauty, and reveals her ambition to weave writing into her artistic practice. This episode is a celebration of creativity, community, and the constant quest for balance, offering a deeply personal yet universally relatable perspective on the life of an artist. You can find Rivkah's work on her website : https://www.shulamithinshadow.com and on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shulamithinshadowMentioned in this episode:Punches & PopcornThe masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D’Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films. https://punches-and-popcorn.captivate.fm/

In this episode of Behind the Studio Door , we chat with Emily Collins. Emily's got a unique take on art, mixing different mediums to create collages that really stand out. She shares how living in Thailand and Indonesia wasn't just an adventure; it actually kicked her creativity back into gear and influenced her art in big ways.The conversation covers Emily's journey into collage, how her travels abroad have seeped into her work, and the big role the Rochester art scene has played in her life since she's been back. It's a straightforward talk about finding your creative path, how moving around the world can change your art, and the importance of having a supportive community of fellow artists. You can find more of Emily's work at http://emilycollinscreative.com or http://instagram.com/energy.emMentioned in this episode:Refined Taste with Dario & ChrisWeekly Live show where comedians Dario Joseph and Chris Thompson talk and laugh with representatives of Rochester, New York’s food and drink scene.

Step inside the vibrant art world of Rochester, NY, with Rodrigo Da Silva and Matt Vanderlee from Hungwell Art Services on this episode of Behind the Studio Door. We get into this duo's journey through design, curation, and their unique impact on the local creative scene. From their diverse backgrounds and collaborative dynamics to their philosophy on creativity and community, this episode offers a deep dive into the art of making art. Plus, don't miss insights into their latest collaborative project, Thaw II, showcasing at The Yards Art Collective. Get ready for an inspiring blend of art, design, and conversation that bridges the gap between creativity and practicality.You can see their latest group exhibition, Thaww II at The Yards Art Collective - opening March 15th! Mentioned in this episode:Mind of MagnusArtist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

Welcome to another roundtable chat with Molly Darling, Christian Rivera, and the guy who makes us sound good, producer Chris Lindstrom! We're your all-access pass to the creative chaos of Rochester, New York, where the weather's as unpredictable as our episodes. From artists who brave the snow in shorts to comic book creators hiding in plain sight, we're peeling back the curtain on the folks turning Rochester from "meh" to "heck yeah!"Ever wondered what keeps Rochester's creative hearts beating through those infamous winters? Or why our city, famous for Kodak moments, is now snapping vibrant new scenes in art, music, and more? We're on a mission to find out, one laugh and awkward pause at a time.Join us as we chat with the brains behind the brushes, mics, and cameras, sharing stories that'll make you want to wear your heart on your sleeve and maybe a hoodie too (because, you know, Rochester). It's a mix of banter, deep dives into the creative process, and the occasional "hell yeah, brother" moment, all wrapped up in the spirit of our scrappy city.

Welcome to a special love edition of "Behind the Studio Door," where we've got a tale that's part rom-com, part tech saga, with a dash of audio magic. Our hosts, Christian and Molly, didn't just stumble into each other's lives; they voice memo-ed their way into love through the now-defunct podcast platform, Anchor FM. Imagine meeting the love of your life because you both had a thing for broadcasting your thoughts into the void. Romantic, right?As our behind-the-scenes matchmaker, Chris Lindstrom, peels back the layers of this digital age love story, you can't help but chuckle. It's like swiping right but with your voice. Christian's serenades and Molly's musings became the soundtrack of their budding romance, proving that even in the vast podcasting sea, you can find your fish—especially if that fish loves a good mental health chat and emo tunes as much as you do.Pull up a chair, and get some popcorn, because this is a good one. Big thanks to Stromie for taking the hosting reigns for a day!