Canvas & Conversations

In this bonus episode, I’m slowing things down and sharing a few behind-the-scenes updates — from small shifts in the podcast to where I’ve been creatively and mentally lately.This is a more casual check-in… a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect.I also talk a bit about what’s coming next, including live streaming and creating more space for us to connect in real time.If you’ve ever felt the need to slow down or shift gears, this one’s for you.You can connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Light of the stars by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this Spotlight Interview, I’m sitting down with Alyssa Snodgrass, a full-time artist creating nature-inspired acrylic paintings.We talk about her journey as an artist, her goal of creating large-scale pieces for gallery exhibits, and how she’s been focusing on smaller works as a way to connect more personally with her audience. Alyssa shares how participating in art markets has helped her not only sell her work, but also build meaningful connections within her community.And while we didn’t dive into it in the episode, she also recently created a butterfly series that’s absolutely worth checking out.It’s an honest, heartfelt conversation about connection, creativity, and continuing to create a life that feels aligned.✨ Connect with Alyssa:Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AlyssaSnodgrassArtInstagram: https://instagram.com/alyssasnodgrassart💌 Connect with Me:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.comEmail: [email protected]🎵 Background Music: Spring Awakening by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this Studio Note, I’m sharing a small, simple tool that’s made recording feel a lot more doable for me — a wireless lavalier mic that plugs right into my phone.As always, this isn’t about having the “perfect” setup — it’s about finding what helps you begin.If you’ve tried something like this (or found something you love even more), I’d genuinely love to hear about it. We’re all figuring this out together.You can find more creative moments, updates, and connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Peaceful Skies by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

Feeling overwhelmed can make everything feel heavier than it really is — like no matter how much you do, there’s always more waiting. If you’ve been feeling stretched thin or unsure where to start, this letter is for you.Sometimes we just need a reminder to slow down, take a breath, and focus on one thing at a time. I hope these words feel like a small moment of calm and encouragement in whatever you’re carrying right now.If this episode resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you — these letters are here to remind you that you’re not alone.You can find more encouragement, creative moments, and updates here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Calming by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

Sometimes we just need a simple moment to slow down, play, and reconnect with ourselves. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from your creativity, this gentle exercise is for you.In this Guided Creativity session, we’re using color, movement, and gratitude to create without pressure. There’s no right or wrong way to do this—just soft, mindful lines and a space to let your thoughts flow freely. I hope this becomes a small moment of calm, reflection, and lightness in your day.If this episode resonates with you, I’d truly love to hear from you—and see what you create.Before you begin, you may want to have:– A piece of paper– Watercolors and a brush or markers– A pen or pencilYou can find more encouragement, weekly affirmations, and heartfelt finds by joining my newsletter on my website.And for more creative moments and ideas, come hang out with me on Instagram. Be sure to tag me and show me your creations. I would love to see them! Connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Meditate by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this Spotlight Interview, I’m sitting down with Charity to talk about her creative journey and how photography has become a meaningful outlet alongside her work in real estate. We chat about her background in illustration, what inspires her to get out and capture moments through photography, and the creative projects she has lined up this summer. This conversation also opens up a thoughtful discussion around AI art and the different perspectives surrounding it in today’s creative space. It’s a relaxed, honest conversation about making time for creativity, exploring different mediums, and continuing to create in a way that feels true to you.✨ Connect with Charity:Website: https://www.charityellison.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/charity_creative/💌 Connect with Me:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Spring Awakening by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this first Studio Notes episode, I’m sharing lessons and reminders I’ve gathered from three books by Austin Kleon — Steal Like an Artist, Show Your Work!, and Keep Going.These reflections have helped me rethink creativity, sharing my work, and allowing myself to have multiple interests without feeling “off-brand.” Sometimes we just need reminders like these to get out of our own heads and keep making things. Just to be clear — I’m not being paid to talk about these books. I simply think they’re great reads and worth sharing with this creative community.If you’ve read these books, I’d love to hear what resonated with you most. Connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Peaceful Skies by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

Self-doubt happens to all of us — and if you’ve been feeling hesitant or unsure of yourself lately, this letter is for you. Sometimes we just need to hear from a friend that we’re doing okay and that we’re capable of more than we think.I hope these words encourage you in whatever season you’re in. If this episode resonates, let me know — these letters are meant to remind you that you’re never alone on your creative path.You can find more encouragement, heartfelt finds, community, and ideas here: Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Calming by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this Guided Creativity episode, we’ll spend 10 gentle minutes exploring bilateral drawing — using both hands at once to create freely and without judgment. This simple exercise can help release stress, calm the nervous system, and give you insight into where you’re at emotionally today. All you need is paper and two writing utensils.Afterward, we’ll take a moment to reflect on what came through.For more creative support, visit my website and if you try this exercise, tag me on Instagram — I’d love to see what you create. Connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Meditate by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this heartfelt Spotlight Interview, I’m joined by Annathia of Sagely Poetry for a gentle, meaningful conversation about creativity, legacy, and honoring the stories that live on through art.We talk about their journey with poetry and short stories, what it’s been like publishing their own books, and the goals and hurdles they’re currently navigating as a creative. We also reflect on love, loss, and the powerful act of bringing their mother’s poems to life — turning a lifelong dream into something that can be shared, remembered, and held close.This episode is a reminder that art can hold grief, joy, memory, and healing all at once — and that continuing to create can be a beautiful way to move forward.✨ Connect with Annathia / Sagely Poetry:• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SagelyPoetry• Poetry Books on Amazon: Syncing With The Roots: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYRFYC2Waking Nightmares: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLJGRF3FBravely Breezy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BD95N21JWant to share your creative story on Canvas & Conversations?Email me at [email protected] more from Mind Over Mata:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Peaceful Skies by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

This is the first episode in a new Letter for… series — short, gentle episodes written and read like a letter from a friend.In this episode, I’m sharing words meant for those moments when you feel behind, overwhelmed, or quietly questioning if you’re doing enough. It’s a reminder that your effort matters, your pace is valid, and you’re allowed to keep building without rushing.If affirmations feel nice but don’t always fully land, this letter is meant to meet you where you are — offering comfort, encouragement, and a little extra support when you need it most.✨ If you’d like more creative reflections, journaling prompts, and mindful inspiration, you can visit here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Frozen Foggy Forest by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this Deep Blog Dive, I reflect on a simple but meaningful tradition — writing a letter to my future self at the start of the year. I share what I wrote, how it helped me stay mindful and kind to myself through 2025, and how even small reflections can bring perspective, encouragement, and growth.Are you planning to write a letter to your future self this year? Or maybe you have another yearly tradition that helps keep you grounded and inspired? I’d love to hear about it — leave a comment or share your experience!💻 For more journaling prompts, reflections, and creative inspiration, pop on over to my website or my Instagram for some additional fun and community. Connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Blinking Light by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this guided creativity episode, we’re trying a gentle journaling practice called automatic writing — a simple way to get thoughts out of your head and onto paper without pressure, judgment, or overthinking.This is a space to write freely, let your mind wander, and release whatever’s been sitting beneath the surface. No rules, no expectations — just you, the page, and a few quiet moments to breathe and create.Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just curious, this episode is here to support you. Come back to it anytime you need a reset.✨ Learn more and explore additional creative content here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Meditate by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this final Spotlight Interview of 2025, I’m sitting down with RJ, a fellow creative I connected with through Instagram and an artist trading card exchange.We chat about his artist trading cards, where his ideas come from, and what inspires his creative process. We also dive into his refreshing outlook on social media — from batching content and documenting his work, to focusing less on follower counts and more on sustainable creativity.This episode is a relaxed ramble between two creatives, full of honest reflections, shared experiences, and encouragement for anyone navigating their own creative path.✨ Connect with RJ & explore his work:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rj_thatsart/• Other socials: https://linktr.ee/rjthatsart• Podcast on Spotify💛 Want to share your creative journey?I’d love to hear from you. Email me at [email protected] to be considered for a future Spotlight Interview.Also be sure to checkout my weekly blog and newsletter which includes affirmations and fun little exercises to avoid artist block. Connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Space Travel by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this final audio log of the year, I’m reflecting on 2025 — the highs, the hurdles, and everything this creative season has taught me. This episode is a gentle reminder that progress is still progress — even when it feels slow.Thank you for joining me on this journey. Here’s to growth, creativity, and stepping into 2026 with intention. ✨For affirmations, inspiration and community be sure to connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Blinking Light by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this reflective end-of-year blog dive, I’m revisiting one of my favorite mindful creative practices — my Jar Full of Joy. Throughout 2025, I wrote down one small moment each week on a sticky note, and now I’m reading one memory from every month to look back on the softness, growth, and gratitude woven into a year that wasn’t always easy.From creative wins to personal challenges, this practice helped me slow down, stay grounded, and notice the good things I might have forgotten otherwise. I also share the jars I decorated, the one I gifted, and what I’m planning for next year’s joy jar.Did you make a Joy Jar this year?I’d love to hear from you — what was one of your favorite moments of 2025?📝 Blog Posts Mentioned:• Jar Full of Joy: Capture 2025’s Best Moments• The Bucket List Jar ProjectFor more fun and creative content be sure to connect with me here also:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Silence of Night by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this episode, we dive into a creative meditation designed to help you clear your mind and rediscover inspiration through doodling. We start with a grounding moment, notice the first thought that rises, and gently draw it — turning everyday tasks, holiday stress, or small joys into simple, expressive sketches.This practice transforms your internal noise into something playful and visual, helping you reconnect with your creativity and shift how you see your daily experiences.Whether you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, or just craving a mindful moment, this is the perfect pause. Take a breath, pick up your pen, and let your mind speak on paper. 💛I would love to see what you've created. Feel free to tag me on Instagram or send an email to [email protected] - Can't wait to hear from you! If you're interested in being apart of a safe space and creative community be sure to join my newsletter on my website. Connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Aura Of Nature by Strawberry Candy on SoundCloud.com

In this Canvas & Conversations spotlight episode, I’m chatting with Renée — an artist whose creativity takes flight from her love of birds and nature walks.Her journey began with colored pencil portraits of real species and has now evolved into a whimsical world of her own, filled with imaginative creatures that feel both magical and real.We talk about creative growth, what inspires her, and how it’s okay to have off days — as long as you keep going.✨ Connect with Renée on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rb_draws_stuff💌 Want to share your creative story? Email me at [email protected] more content such as blog posts, community and self care products, connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Lightness of Being by Strawberry Candy on Soundcloud.com

In this episode, I’m sharing what it’s been like preparing for my first local art show — from creating a new series of 6x6 acrylic texture paintings to reflecting on what this opportunity means to me.I talk about choosing creativity over perfection, slowing down before launching my YouTube channel, and how even the smallest pieces of art can hold the biggest emotion. This show also supports @secondwindco, an organization for youth suicide awareness and prevention.💬 Read my Bold Journey interview: https://boldjourney.com/an-inspired-chat-with-devyn-mata-highlight🖼️ Join the 6x6 Art Show in Denver, Colorado – November 29th: https://spectraartspace.com/tabi2025/Check out my website for more creative content or fun ideas and community on my Instagram Page here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: “After Sunset” by ANtarcticbreeze on SoundCloud.com

What really counts as junk journaling? In this Blog Dive episode, I’m unpacking one of my favorite creative discoveries — and sharing how it’s completely changed the way I create. It’s not about rules — it’s about joy, creativity, and self-expression.👉 Read the full blog: https://mindovermatastudio.com/blogs/mindful-pages/joy-of-junk-journaling💬 Share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on Instagram — do you mix materials or keep it all “junk”?For more creative and mindful content be sure to connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Satisfied by Ron Gelinas on Soundcloud.com

Feeling the holiday rush already? This week’s Guided Creativity episode is all about slowing down and giving yourself permission to play — even if it’s just for a few minutes.In this relaxing art session, we’ll create simple, colorful circles that transform into bubbles — no pressure, no perfection, just gentle creativity.All you’ll need is a pen or pencil and something to color with. Together, we’ll breathe, doodle, and reconnect to that lighthearted part of ourselves that just wants to create for fun.This episode is perfect for those moments when you’re short on time but still want to make something that feels calm and satisfying. By the end, you’ll have a bright page of unique bubbles — a sweet little reminder that creativity can be easy, playful, and restorative.✨ Join the conversation:What did your bubbles look like? Were they neat and round or wild and wobbly?Share your page with me — I’d love to see your creations!Tag me on Instagram or email me at [email protected] so we can celebrate your art together. 💛 For more content, inspiration and ideas be sure to connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Underwater Lullaby by doubleshot-audio on Soundcloud.com

In this inspiring spotlight interview, I sit down with the lovely Anthea to talk about creativity, self-compassion, and the importance of giving ourselves space to grow without judgment. We also chat about her vision for Evolve — a future space to help people continue their healing journey beyond therapy, and how she’s learning to be gentle with herself along the way.It was such a beautiful and grounding conversation, and I’m so grateful to have shared it with you all.✨ Connect with Anthea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palette_for_growth If you enjoyed this episode and want to share your own creative story, email me at ⁠[email protected]⁠ — I’d love to hear from you! 💛For more content like blogs and newsletters with affirmations and heartfelt finds, be sure to connect with me here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background Music: Lightness of Being by Strawberry Candy on SoundCloud.com

Hey friends — in this first Audio Log, I’m catching you up on all the creative things happening behind the scenes lately — from my Blocktober (31 Days of Block Printing) challenge, to the direction of this podcast, and the early plans for my Medium a Month (Yes MAM) YouTube channel.It’s a heartfelt reflection on where I’m at creatively — the excitement, the uncertainty, and the joy of figuring things out one step at a time.If you’ve got any thoughts or suggestions for how I could approach my YouTube videos — whether that’s live streams, faceless videos, or something in between — I’d love to hear them in the comments. Your ideas mean a lot as I shape this next chapter.If you’d like to see my Blocktober progress or revisit the shorter Audio Logs that started it all, you can find them here:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background music: Swan Dive by David Robson on Soundcloud.com

Ever have one of those weeks where motivation feels out of reach? In this reflective Blog Dive, I share how a handful of sticky notes became little lifelines — quiet reminders that helped me stay grounded and keep going.Sometimes, the smallest words can make the biggest difference. ✨Read the full blog post here: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com/blogs/mindful-pages/sticky-note-pep-talks⁠I’d love to hear from you — what’s a simple ritual, phrase, or little trick that helps you get through tough days? Share it in the comments so we can lift each other up.Be sure to connect with me on my website and Instagram for more great content:Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/mindovermatastudio⁠Website: ⁠https://www.mindovermatastudio.com🎵 Background music: Deep Meditation by David Renda

Hi friends — in this short, guided creative meditation, we’re slowing down, taking a breath, and creating without rules or expectations. Think of it as a little reset — five mindful minutes just for you and your art.💭 For next time, would you prefer a coloring exercise or a doodle prompt? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.If you're interested in more content like this or some inspirational blog posts or weekly affirmations from my newsletter, be sure to check out www.mindovermatastudio.com or for more fun content and community on my Instagram Page @mindovermatastudioUntil next time, keep creating in whatever way feels good to you. 💜🎵 Background music: “Deep Meditation” by David Fesliyan on Soundcloud.com

Before we dive into the four episode types I’ll be sharing each week, I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself a little more personally. In this episode, I open up about my journey as a creative, what led me to start Mind Over Mata, and why I felt called to create Canvas & Conversations.Think of this as a cozy little chat so you can get to know the person behind the mic before we start exploring prompts, meditations, artist spotlights, blog deep dives, and reflections together.✨ If you’d like to connect — whether it’s to set up an interview, share your creative story, or just chit chat about art — you can always reach me at [email protected] be sure to check out my website for more inspiration, affirmations, and creative self-love products at www.mindovermatastudio.com or my Instagram Page @mindovermatastudioThanks for being here at the start of this adventure. I can’t wait to grow this creative space with you 💜

Welcome to the very first episode of Canvas & Conversations, a creative podcast by Mind Over Mata! In this intro, I’m sharing a little about who I am, why I started this podcast, and what you can expect in the weeks ahead.From guided prompts and mindful exercises, to creative spotlights, blog deep dives, and honest audio reflections, this podcast is a cozy space where art and self-care meet. My hope is that it feels like sitting down with a friend to talk about creativity — the joys, the struggles, and everything in between.For more content such as blog posts, newsletter with weekly affirmations, and creative self-love products be sure to check out my website at www.mindovermatastudio.com and be sure to follow me on Instagram for some extra fun @mindovermatastudioThanks so much for being here at the very beginning of this journey. I can’t wait to grow and create alongside you. 💛