PODCAST · arts
The Urbanaut Podcast
by Patrick Lee Hubbard
Welcome to The Urbanaut Podcast channel, where we delve deep into our contemporary image-driven culture. For an immersive experience watch the video version on YouTube or Spotify. Guided by Patrick Lee Hubbard and enriched with insights from Steve Bisson of Urbanautica Institute, we explore the tales and truths that modern visuals weave around us. Every frame and pixel holds a story, and we're here to uncover it. If you're as captivated by this journey as we are, support our quest and get exclusive content by joining our Patreon community. Subscribe, dive in, and become an Urbanaut with us.
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Ep. #72: When the Heart Says Go - Valerio Geraci’s Artistic Awakening
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #72 of The Urbanaut Podcast presented in collaboration with @Urbanautica. In this unforgettable conversation, we’re joined by Italian photographer Valerio Geraci, whose work straddles the poetic and the documentary, weaving themes of identity, memory, and place.About Our Guest: Valerio GeraciBorn in Palermo and based in Paris, Valerio Geraci left behind a legal career to pursue a lifelong passion for photography. His acclaimed body of work includes “American Eden”, a long-term exploration of American landscapes shaped by childhood nostalgia, and “Little Italy”, an ongoing project tracing forgotten Italian stories across rural America. His photography blends technical mastery with deep narrative insight, and his images have been exhibited internationally and featured in publications such as Vogue France, Monocle, and AD Magazine. He is also a faculty member at the Paris College of Art.Tune in to this episode to:- Hear how a book — “East of Eden” — changed Valerio’s life trajectory.- Explore the making of “American Eden” and the cultural weight of nostalgia.- Discover the hidden histories behind “Little Italy” and the Italian diaspora in America.- Reflect on the tension between freedom and responsibility in creative work.Don’t forget to:- Subscribe to our channel for more in-depth artist interviews.- Like and share to support independent photography and storytelling.- Follow us on socials for updates and behind-the-scenes content.EPISODE LINKS:Valerio's Website: www.valeriogeraci.com | Valerio’s Instagram: @valeriogeraciOUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up..1:58 - Opening & Meeting at Paris Foto 3:50 - From Palermo to Paris: Valerio’s Background 4:56 - The Shift from Law to Photography 8:23 - Influences: Robert Capa, Cuba, and Timshel 14:32 - Family Support & Decision to Move to Paris 19:06 - Starting Out as a Photographer 22:12 - Craft, Discipline & Finding a Visual Voice 27:17 - Childhood Fascination with America 32:29 - American Eden: Origins and Meaning 40:50 - Photography Style: Interiors, Landscapes & Light 51:56 - “Your Camera is Your Passport” 1:01:19 - Meeting James: A Friendship in Nebraska 1:13:45 - Why Nebraska? Love for the American Midwest 1:20:56 - Little Italy: Discovering Italian Legacies in the U.S. 1:32:13 - Cemeteries, Stories & Cultural Echoes 1:43:36 - Macaroni Line, Alamo, and Future of the Project SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#ValerioGeraci #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #AmericanEden #LittleItaly #ItalianDiaspora #DocumentaryPhotography #ArtisticAwakening #VisualStorytelling #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #71: The Poetics of Place and the Power of Stillness—Kate Schneider’s Visual Journey
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #71 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we welcome Canadian photographer and educator Kate Schneider, whose emotionally resonant work explores the deep ties between land, memory, and identity. From the protest camps of the American Midwest to intimate still lifes of ancient rocks, Kate’s evolving visual language challenges traditional documentary practice and embraces poetic, sensory experience.About Our Guest: Kate SchneiderKate Schneider is an artist of settler ancestry living in Tkaronto (Toronto), deeply rooted in the ecology and history of the Great Lakes region. With a background in both photojournalism and fine art, her practice traverses multiple disciplines, from long-form documentary to deeply personal and experimental photographic works. Kate's recent series—How to Understand a Rock, We, the Heartland, and Landscapes of Resistance—meditate on protest, place, and the unspoken emotional geographies that shape our relationships with the non-human world. Her work has been widely exhibited across North America and published internationally. She also teaches photography at OCAD University in Toronto.Tune in to this episode to:Discover how neurodivergence shaped Kate’s entry into photography and her pursuit of mindfulness through image-making.Explore the intersection of activism and artistic ethics through her documentation of the Keystone XL pipeline and Standing Rock protests.Learn how a transition from traditional documentary led Kate to create more introspective, poetic works involving geology, animacy, and memory.Understand her personal connection to land, and why questions of “home” and “belonging” are central to her creative inquiry.EPISODE LINKS:Kate’s Website: www.kateschneider.netKate’s Instagram: @kateschneiderOUTLINE:0:00 – Coming Up…2:18 – Welcome and Personal Roots6:48 – Photography as Neurodivergent Expression12:45 – Education and Early Influences18:33 – Art vs. Journalism Identity Struggles26:49 – Land, Identity, and Emotional Geography34:18 – Conceptual Foundations and Motivations43:10 – Pipeline Resistance: We, the Heartland49:49 – Protest Camps and Landscapes of Resistance57:00 – Existential Crisis and Activist Ethics1:09:27 – Visualizing Home and Temporary Structures1:18:45 – Post-2017 Artistic Recalibration1:23:04 – Geology, Objects, and Intimacy1:32:20 – Photography as Visual Poetics1:38:18 – Artistic Legacy and Personal Growth2:02:18 – Closing Reflections and Looking AheadSOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#KateSchneider #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #EnvironmentalArt #Geopoetics #ActivismThroughArt #NeurodivergentCreativity #ContemporaryPhotography #ArtandEcology #VisualPoetics #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #70: Defamiliarizing Iran - Rethinking Urban Landscapes with Alireza Malekian
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #70 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we journey into the richly layered world of Iranian artist-photographer Alireza Malekian. From early experiments in visual communication to his long-term project Defamiliarizing Iran, Alireza invites us to question what a photograph can be—and how it shapes, and is shaped by, the landscapes and cultures it captures.About Our Guest: Alireza MalekianBorn in Mashhad, Iran, and based in Tehran, Alireza Malekian is a visual artist, researcher, and writer whose work interrogates the intersection of urban environment, cultural identity, and photographic language. A graduate in Illustration with deep roots in graphic design and poetry, Alireza has become known for his conceptual approach to photography—merging experimental technique with documentary intention. His work explores the psychological and political layers of place, often transforming everyday cityscapes into complex visual inquiries. Through projects like Defamiliarizing Iranand Phantom Tehran, he challenges both Western perceptions and internal cultural clichés.Tune in to this episode to:- Explore how personal history, displacement, and memory influence visual storytelling.- Learn about Defamiliarizing Iran, a powerful long-term series that blends manipulation, ambiguity, and visual sequencing.- Discover how photography can become a tool for both civic engagement and existential reflection.- Understand Alireza’s deep commitment to honesty, representation, and the evolving role of the artist.EPISODE LINKS:Alireza’s Website: www.alirezamalekian.com | Instagram: @alireza.malekianCHAPTERS0:00 – Coming Up...2:15 – Welcome & Recording from Iran3:08 – Alireza’s Background and Artistic Roots5:33 – Graphic Design, Poetry, and Early Experiments7:04 – Why Photography Became His Medium10:10 – Photography as a Way to Explore Urban Life12:25 – Learning Through Books, Not Institutions16:06 – Childhood, Memory, and Attraction to Landscapes18:33 – Developing a Personal Voice and Artistic Questioning22:22 – Challenging Stereotypes and Defamiliarizing Iran25:55 – Artistic Influences: Persian Miniatures to Kiarostami30:23 – Creating Early Series and Methodical Approaches38:00 – Photography as a Tool for Belonging40:41 – The Philosophy and Process Behind Defamiliarizing Iran52:12 – On Visual Ethics and Representing Truthfully1:06:42 – Grief and Transformation in Bleed, Despair, Solas1:16:27 – Long-term Narratives in As I Walked Within1:24:45 – New Work: Phantom Tehran and Cultural Complexity1:44:49 – Becoming Participant vs. Observer1:53:24 – Advice on Artistic Growth and Taking CriticismDon’t forget to:- Subscribe for more deep dives into the world of photography and visual culture.- Like this episode to support our mission of thoughtful art dialogue.- Share with anyone passionate about photography, culture, or documentary work.SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#AlirezaMalekian #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #IranianArt #VisualCulture #DefamiliarizingIran #UrbanPhotography #ExpandedPhotography #ArtTheory #urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard #SteveBisson
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Ep. #69: Gesche Würfel Explores Reunification and Memory in Post-Wall Berlin
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #69 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we sit down with German-American artist Gesche Würfel, whose interdisciplinary work spans photography, urban planning, and visual sociology. Her projects explore the architecture of memory, historical trauma, and environmental change through experimental, research-based image-making.About Our Guest: Gesche WürfelGesche Würfel is a New York-based visual artist known for her analog and concept-driven photography that investigates the socio-political dimensions of space—whether in forests affected by climate change, architecture tied to slavery and Nazism, or the lingering divisions of post-Wall Berlin.Her work has been exhibited at Tate Modern, Künstlerhaus Bethanien, David Zwirner, International Center of Photography, and many others. She's a recipient of grants from DAAD, the Puffin Foundation, and the North Carolina Arts Council, and her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Guardian, and WIRED.In this episode, we discuss her major projects:- Discover how Gesche Würfel retraced the full length of the Berlin Wall to explore the invisible psychological borders that still divide Germany.- Learn how she uses fire, salt, and solarization to transform photographs into visceral reflections of climate change.- Uncover the stories hidden in America’s neglected slave dwellings and what their preservation—or erasure—says about historical memory.- Explore how architecture becomes a tool of oppression, remembrance, and resistance in Gesche’s research-driven visual practice.Tune in to this episode to:- Explore how photography can serve as visual historiography and socio-political critique- Learn how analog image-making and material experimentation can reflect environmental collapse- Hear how oral histories, archives, and landscapes intersect in the retelling of German and American histories- Gain insight into the emotional and ethical layers of documenting sites of trauma and transformationEPISODE LINKSGesche’s Website: https://geschewuerfel.com | Instagram: @gewuerfelSupport the Book on Kickstarter: The Absence and Presence of the Berlin WallOUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up…0:44 – Welcome & Introductions1:30 – Gesche’s Journey: From Urban Planning to Visual Art5:38 – Photography, Place, and the Traces of Human Presence11:25 – Global Sameness and the Architecture of Identity15:53 – Influences, Intuition, and Experimental Process24:32 – Forests in the Anthropocene: Climate, Material, and Metaphor37:23 – Architecture of Oppression: From Nazi Camps to Slave Dwellings51:45 – Berlin Wall Project: Absence, Memory, and Reunification1:18:50 – Portraits and Oral Histories: Telling a Fuller Story1:25:10 – The Book: Vision, Kickstarter, and Teamwork1:36:11 – Advice for Artists: Trusting Intuition and Long-Term Thinking1:39:11 – Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Gesche’s WorkSOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#GescheWürfel #TheUrbanautPodcast #BerlinWall #ClimateChangeArt #ExperimentalPhotography #SociopoliticalArt #SlaveDwellings #HolocaustMemory #PostWallGermany #Urbanautica #PhotographyPodcast #ContemporaryPhotography #ArtAndActivism #VisualSociology #PatrickLeeHubbard #SteveBisson
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Ep. #68: How to Photograph an Island - Two Artists, One Vision with Camilla and Gabriele
Welcome to Ep. #68 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with the creative duo Camilla Marrese and Gabriele Chiapparini—two artists whose collaborative work challenges conventions in photography, publishing, and storytelling. Known for their poetic book "Thinking Like an Island", the pair explore how photography can be both an act of discovery and a deeply personal narrative. About Our Guests: Camilla Marrese & Gabriele Chiapparini Camilla is a photographer, graphic designer, and visual editor at PHMuseum, known for her meticulous approach to photo book design and her narrative sensibility. Gabriele began his artistic path through music before turning to photography, bringing with him a deep sensitivity to sequencing and atmosphere. Together, they’ve formed a creative practice that blurs authorship and embraces intuition, experimentation, and deep research.Their acclaimed project "Thinking Like an Island"—shot on the remote Sicilian island of Alicudi—is a lyrical meditation on isolation, perception, and the desire to escape. The book, structured as four interlocking volumes, reflects both the physical disorientation of island life and the conceptual fragmentation of modern existence.Tune in to this episode to:- Hear the story of how Camilla and Gabriele met, merged practices, and developed their first collaborative projects.- Explore how photography and music intersect through rhythm, tone, and emotional pacing.- Discover the conceptual and logistical challenges behind their book "Thinking Like an Island".- Learn how photobooks become tactile, multi-sensory works of art.- Get an exclusive preview of their upcoming projects on climate science and militarized aesthetics. Don’t forget to: - Subscribe to our channel for deep dives into photography and visual storytelling. - Like and share this episode to support independent photographic voices. - Follow us for behind-the-scenes updates, interviews, and upcoming features.EPISODE LINKS:Camilla’s Instagram: @camillamarrese Gabriele’s Instagram: @gabrielechiappariniPHMuseum: phmuseum.comOUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up...2:36 - Intro 4:14 - Artistic Roots and Emotional Entry Points 8:09 - First Projects and Formative Experiments 9:44 - Becoming a Duo: Morocco and Merging Visions 12:34 - Melancholy and Mutual Fascination 15:18 - Sequencing Photos Like Music 20:21 - Albums vs. Singles: Why Photobooks Matter 22:46 - Inspirations from Literature and Photography 28:51 - What Makes a Great Photobook? 35:34 - Thinking Like an Island: Utopia, Escape, and Modern Myth 41:25 - Discovering Alicudi and Island as Concept 47:21 - Designing a Disorienting Book Structure 54:13 - Shooting in All Directions: Techniques and Tools 1:01:17 - Themes of Hiding, Camouflage, and Elusive Truths1:03:09 - Layering Voices: Diaries and Islander Quotes 1:07:37 - Living on the Island: Terrain, Limitations, Time 1:14:01 - What the Island Taught Us About Reality 1:16:57 - Ethics of Representation and Local Reception 1:19:49 - Imagining an Exhibition of “The Island” 1:21:18 - Sneak Peek: Climate and Military-Inspired Projects 1:27:23 - Science as Ritual and Intimate Uncertainty 1:29:51 - Collaborating as a Duo: Contrast and TrustSOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcastTAGS: #TheUrbanautPodcast #CamillaMarrese #GabrieleChiapparini #TheIsland #PhotobookDesign #PhotographyPodcast #ContemporaryPhotography #Alicudi #VisualNarrative #ClimateArt #CollaborativeArt #PhotobookLove #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep.#67: Layers of Life - Defining Art and Identity with Roxana Savin
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #67 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we sit down with the insightful Swiss-based visual artist Roxana Savin, originally from Romania. Roxana's diverse body of work explores deep themes of identity, belonging, gender roles, and the status of women in contemporary society, influenced by her personal experiences and rich cultural heritage.About Our Guest: Roxana Savin Roxana Savin navigates complex narratives through her photography, transitioning from a legal career in Romania to a profound engagement with visual art. Her projects, such as 'On Heaven's Doorsill' and 'I’ll Be Late Tonight', offer a thoughtful exploration of societal roles and personal identity, reflecting her experiences both in Eastern Europe and as an expatriate in Western societies. Her work has been internationally acclaimed, earning her numerous awards and exhibitions across Europe.Tune in to this episode to:Explore Roxana's transformative journey from a law professional to a celebrated visual artist.Delve into her poignant projects that discuss gender roles, migration, and cultural identity.Discover how her Romanian heritage and personal narratives influence her artistic expression.Don't forget to:Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the world of art and visual culture.Like and share this episode to support discussions on gender roles and personal transformation in art.Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.EPISODE LINKS: RRoxana's Webiste: www.roxanasavin.com | Roxana’s Instagram: @roxanasavinOUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up...2:51 - Introduction3:42 - Roxana’s Early Life and Career Shift9:19 - Migration and the Impact of Moving Abroad11:51 - Finding Art and Embracing Change17:54 - Gender Equality and Advocacy25:18 - 'On Heaven's Doorsill' Project35:04 - 'I’ll Be Late Tonight' Project40:34 - 'God Created Woman' Project48:01 - Artistic Processes and Creative Insights56:33 - Reflections on Cultural Identity and Artistic Expression1:05:04 - Balancing Motherhood and Artistic Career1:13:26 - Societal Impact and Future Directions1:21:50 - Concluding Thoughts1:29:38 - Exploring the Concept of Home and Belonging1:37:13 - Artistic Reflections and Philosophical Insights1:45:46 - Impact of Art on Personal and Social Change1:53:24 - Closing Remarks and Advice for Emerging Artists2:01:39 - Future Projects and FarewellSOCIAL:Twitter: /UrbanautPodcastFacebook: /TheUrbanautPodcastInstagram: /TheUrbanautPodcastSupport on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#RoxanaSavin #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #VisualArt #SwissArt #RomanianArt #CulturalIdentity #GenderRoles #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #66: A Thing or Not a Thing - Adam Friedberg’s Journey Through Urban Photography
🎙️ Welcome to Episode #66 of The Urbanaut Podcast!Presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com, this episode features the brilliant Adam Friedberg, a New York-based photographer known for his deeply observational work capturing urban spaces, architectural elements, and the changing cityscape.About Our Guest: Adam FriedbergAdam Friedberg’s photography explores the intersection of architecture, space, and absence, often focusing on overlooked environments like empty lots, single-story buildings, and hidden urban details. His career spans from assisting top commercial photographers in the 90s to becoming a highly regarded artist with a distinct voice in architectural and documentary photography. Friedberg’s work balances technical precision with a meditative approach to image-making, inviting viewers to reconsider their surroundings.Tune in to this episode to:- Discover how a Tibetan monk's advice set Adam on his creative journey.- Hear the wild story of how he crashed a fashion photography studio and landed his first job.- Explore the philosophy behind his work—why he focuses on "a thing or not a thing".- Learn about his major projects, including Empty Lots, Single Story, and Urban Jungle.- Gain insights into photography as a trade vs. art form, the evolution of New York, and the tension between commercial and personal work.OUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up…1:01 - Introduction & Guest Background2:59 - Academia, Philosophy, and the CIA Connection6:30 - The Tibetan Monk’s Advice That Changed Everything7:20 - Accidental Entry into Photography9:27 - Learning Photography Through Immersion12:22 - The Reality of Assisting in High-End Fashion Photography16:00 - The Grueling Pace of Commercial Photography in the 90s29:03 - The Shift from Fashion to Personal Work32:06 - Finding a New Direction in Architectural Photography49:14 - The Concept of “A Thing or Not a Thing” in Photography51:19 - Major Photography Projects & The Evolution of His Work57:14 - The Influence of Books and Prints on Photography1:11:52 - The Role of Imperfection & Photography as a Trade vs. Art Form1:15:02 - The Challenge of Documenting a Changing City1:19:24 - Why He Refuses to Crop His Photos1:41:13 - Final Thoughts & The Nature of SeeingDon't forget to:- Subscribe to our channel for more conversations with artists and photographers.- Like & Share this episode if you enjoy deep-dive discussions on photography and creative practice.- Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.EPISODE LINKS:Adam Friedberg’s Work: www.adamfriedberg.com | Instagram: @adam_friedbergSOCIALS: Twitter: @UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: @TheUrbanautPodcast Support us on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcastHashtags:#AdamFriedberg #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #UrbanPhotography #Architecture #NewYork #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #PhotographyPodcast #VisualNarrative #Cityscapes
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Ep. 65: Amber, Byker & The Writing in the Sand - A Lifetime of Seeing with Sirkka-Liisa Konttinen
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #65 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com!In this captivating episode, we sit down with the legendary Finnish-British photographer Sirkka-Liisa Konttinen, whose work has profoundly shaped documentary photography in Britain. From her groundbreaking project Byker, capturing a working-class community in Newcastle, to her poetic exploration of life on the North East beaches in Writing in the Sand, Konttinen’s career spans over five decades of deeply human storytelling.About Our Guest: Sirkka-Liisa KonttinenSirkka-Liisa Konttinen is a photographer and filmmaker, co-founder of the Amber Film & Photography Collective, and an MBE awardee for her contributions to photography. Her work is held in prestigious collections, including the Tate, National Gallery of Art (Washington D.C.), and the UK Memory of the World Register.Konttinen’s practice is deeply embedded in the communities she documents, often spanning decades. She first moved to Newcastle in 1969, where she produced Byker, a seminal documentary of a disappearing way of life. She later revisited the area for Byker Revisited, capturing the changes in the community and its people. Her work is not just about capturing moments; it’s about relationships, memory, and the evolution of place.Tune in to this episode to:- Follow Sirkka-Liisa’s journey from Finland to Britain and into the world of photography.- Learn how she co-founded Amber Collective and their philosophy of creative independence.- Explore her Byker and Byker Revisited projects—how she lived among her subjects and documented their lives over decades.- Discover how her photographs turned into films, including Writing in the Sand and Today I’m With You.- Hear incredible behind-the-scenes stories, including the mystery grandma and the barber who rejected his own portrait.Don't forget to:- Subscribe to our channel for more deep dives into the world of photography and art.- Like & share this episode to spread the stories of documentary photography.- Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive interviews.OUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Soon…1:50 - Early Life in Finland & First Encounters with Photography5:09 - The Chocolate Bar Hustle: Buying Her First Enlarger7:41 - Studying in London & Discovering Documentary Film11:19 - Why Documentary? Photography as a Time Capsule14:07 - Meeting Murray Martin & Founding the Amber Collective15:06 - Living on £8 a Week: The Amber Collective’s Philosophy28:12 - Newcastle’s Beaches: The Birth of a 20-Year Project31:39 - The Mystery Grandma: A Photograph with Many Claimants35:57 - Photography as Performance: Camouflaging with a Bikini38:07 - The Writing in the Sand: From Photographs to Film39:06 - The Cinematic Nature of Photography49:22 - Returning to Negatives: Finding Hidden Gems57:55 - Byker: A Community on the Brink of Change1:15:45 - The Barber Who Rejected His Own Portrait1:22:47 - The Byker Book: A Local Treasure1:26:59 - Reflections on a Life in Documentary Photography1:33:37 - Losing the Studio: The Break-In That Changed Her Approach1:37:05 - The Abandoned Piano Girl & A Lasting Connection1:40:32 - The Impact of Community Photography: Still Here, Byker1:54:00 - Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Sirkka’s WorkSOCIAL LINKS:Amber Collective & Films: amber-online.comSirkka-Liisa’s Work & Books: Dewi Lewis PublishingWatch Amber’s Films (Including Writing in the Sand): VimeoFollow The Urbanaut Podcast: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support us on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#SirkkaLiisaKonttinen #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #AmberCollective #Byker #WritingInTheSand #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #64: Intuition, Photography, and the Power of Letting Go - A Deep Dive with Nigel Baldacchino
🎙️ Welcome to Episode #64 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com.In this compelling episode, we sit down with Maltese artist and design architect Nigel Baldacchino, whose work spans photography, architecture, poetry, and experimental music. Nigel's unique artistic approach blends deep philosophical inquiry with intuitive photographic practice, resulting in visually and conceptually rich projects. From exploring themes of anxiety and perception to discussing his international exhibitions, this episode offers an insightful look into Nigel’s creative world.About Our Guest: Nigel BaldacchinoNigel Baldacchino (b. 1989, Malta) is an artist and design architect known for his diverse creative output. His photo-text publication Soon Out of Context (2019) combined poetry with found imagery, while his experimental ambient project Pool Night (2021) introduced his sonic explorations under Belgian label Complex Holiday. In 2023, he was part of the prestigious Penumbra Foundation Long-Term Photobook Program, and in 2024, he served as exhibition designer for the first edition of MaltaBiennale.Art. His photography has been exhibited internationally, including at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Mulhouse, alongside artists such as Raymond Meeks, Awoiska van der Molen, Bénédicte Blondeau, and Bernard Plossu.Tune in to this episode to:- Explore Nigel’s transition from architecture to photography and how it shaped his artistic voice.- Learn how anxiety fuels his creative process and his thoughts on the connection between mental health and art.- Discover the story behind "Those Eyes, These Eyes, They Fade," a traveling exhibition he co-founded.- Unpack his photographic series "The Sea" and its themes of contradiction and perception.- Hear the fascinating history behind "Pineto," his project documenting a forgotten Maltese park before its erasure.- Get a glimpse into his upcoming solo exhibition in South Korea and what’s next in his career.Don’t Forget to:- Subscribe to the podcast for more deep dives into contemporary photography and creative expression.- Like & Share this episode to support independent artists.- Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.EPISODE LINKS:Nigel Baldacchino’s Website: nigelbaldacchino.com | Nigel’s Instagram: @nigelbaldacchinoOUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up…1:48 - Welcome & Introduction3:40 - From Architecture to Photography5:05 - Founding Those Eyes, These Eyes, They Fade7:25 - Building Community in the Art World28:19 - The Impact of Mentors & Influences31:29 - How Anxiety Fuels Creativity41:50 - Nigel’s Free-Flowing Approach to Photography58:45 - The Poetic Nature of Nigel’s Photography1:05:35 - Exploring Contradictions in The Sea1:27:29 - Using a 500mm Lens to Capture Hidden Stories1:32:46 - The Erasure of History in Malta’s Pineto Park1:37:10 - First Solo Exhibition in Korea1:38:20 - New Work: Promise Litter1:47:56 - The Role of Text in Photography1:51:48 - Closing Thoughts & Future ProjectsSOCIAL MEDIA: Twitter/X: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#NigelBaldacchino #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #FineArtPhotography #Architecture #AnxietyAndArt #PhotoBooks #CreativeProcess #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep.#63: The Power & Paradox of Photography – A Conversation with David Campany
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #63 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com.In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with the brilliant David Campany, an influential curator, writer, editor, educator, and the Creative Director of the International Center of Photography, New York. Known for his deep insights into photography’s evolving role in contemporary culture, David’s work spans curation, academic writing, and photographic criticism.About Our Guest: David CampanyDavid Campany has worked with some of the most prestigious institutions worldwide, including Tate, MoMA, Centre Pompidou, ICP New York, Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, and The Photographer’s Gallery London. He has published extensively with Aperture, Steidl, MIT Press, Thames & Hudson, and Phaidon, and has written over 300 essays on photography. His recent curatorial projects include A Trillion Sunsets: A Century of Image Overload, Actual Size! Photography at Life Scale, and the William Klein retrospective Yes at ICP.In this episode, we take a deep dive into photography’s role in visual culture, its relationship with power, and the philosophical questions surrounding its meaning.Tune in to this episode to:- Explore why photography resists a singular definition and how its meaning shifts over time.- Unpack the explosion of images in the digital age—are there really "too many photographs"?- Discuss AI’s role in reshaping visual culture—is AI "perfecting ideology"?- Hear about David’s journey into curation and his experience editing iconic photobooks.- Discover why ambiguity is crucial in art and photography, and how institutions often get it wrong.Don't forget to:- Subscribe for more in-depth conversations on photography, art, and visual culture.- Like & Share to spread the word about this insightful discussion.- Follow us for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming guests.EPISODE LINKS:🔗 David’s Website: www.davidcampany.com📸 David’s Instagram: @davidcampanyOUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up…2:09 - Introduction & Setting the Stage4:28 - Who is David Campany?6:14 - Photography as an Open Concept8:25 - The Evolution of Photography in Visual Culture11:35 - The Power of Images & Image Manipulation13:38 - Are There Too Many Images in the World?23:12 - AI, Ideology, and the Future of Visual Culture31:44 - David Campany’s Origin Story36:38 - The First Published Photograph & Early Recognition46:53 - Transitioning into Curation1:05:47 - Actual Size: Photography at Life Scale1:18:51 - Ambiguity in Photography & Art1:24:47 - The Role of Writing in Understanding Photography1:29:25 - Photobooks and the Art of Editing1:36:21 - Closing Reflections & Final Thoughts1:40:54 - The Shifting Role of Museums and Institutions1:44:39 - Teaching Photography and Changing Student Perspectives1:49:21 - The Intersection of Photography and Cinema1:52:49 - Why Photographic Meaning is Never Fixed1:56:29 - The Final Take: What Makes Photography Timeless?SOCIAL:🐦 Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast📘 Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast📷 Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast💡 Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast🎧 #DavidCampany #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #VisualCulture #CuratingPhotography #AIinPhotography #ArtandAmbiguity #PhotographyTheory #urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #62: Ice, Plastic, and Migration - Aleksey Kondratyev’s Photography of Labor
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #62 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com.In this captivating episode, we sit down with Aleksey Kondratyev, an artist-photographer whose work explores the intersections of globalization, labor, and identity. From the frozen landscapes of Kazakhstan’s ice fishers to the hidden labor force of American construction workers, Aleksey’s photography brings attention to unseen worlds.About Our Guest: Aleksey KondratyevBorn in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and later immigrating to Detroit, Aleksey’s work is shaped by his personal history of migration and cultural hybridity. He holds an MFA from UCLA and has exhibited internationally at venues like the Museum of Contemporary Art Rome, the Benaki Museum in Athens, and the Berlin Center for Contemporary Art. His projects, including Ice Fishers, Auto, and Worker, have been featured in National Geographic, The New York Times, and The Financial Times.Tune in to this episode to:- Explore Aleksey’s journey in photography and how he found his artistic voice.- Learn about the Ice Fishers project, which documents Kazakh fishers using discarded plastic materials as makeshift survival shelters.- Understand the economic and social dynamics behind the global trade of used cars in the Auto project.- Discuss the invisible workforce behind modern cities in his Worker series.- Hear insights on balancing research and intuition in creative work.Don't forget to:- Subscribe to our channel for more episodes diving into the world of art and photography.- Like & Share this episode to support independent photography storytelling.- Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.EPISODE LINKSWebsite: alekseykondratyev.com | Instagram: @aleksey.kondratyevOUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up..2:21 - Introduction to Aleksey Kondratyev25:37 - Discovering the Ice Fishers project28:30 - The extreme conditions of ice fishing1:13:28 - Transition to Auto: A personal connection1:15:26 - The global trade of wrecked cars1:31:19 - The Worker series: Capturing invisible labor1:33:40 - The role of anonymity in photography1:24:11 - The future of auto shops & changing labor markets1:54:55 - Trusting intuition over research1:53:41 - Final thoughts & advice for young photographersSOCIAL LINKS:🔹 Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast🔹 Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast🔹 Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast🔹 Support us on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #AlekseyKondratyev #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #CentralAsia #PostSovietIdentity #LaborPhotography #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #61: Stories from the City - Decoding Metropolises with Pierfrancesco Celada
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #61 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we delve into the nuanced world of Italian photographer Pierfrancesco Celada. His extensive work offers a chronological exploration of his photography, from his doctoral research in biomechanics to his impactful long-term projects documenting urban life in cities like Hong Kong and Tokyo.About Our Guest: Pierfrancesco Celada Pierfrancesco Celada's work poignantly captures the essence of metropolitan living and its impact on individual and collective consciousness. Known for his incisive use of visual metaphors, Celada's projects like "When I feel down I take the train," and "Instagram Pier," explore themes of isolation, connectivity, and the personal vs. public spheres in urban environments. His photographs have been showcased in major venues such as Les Rencontres d’Arles and the Nobel Peace Center, reflecting his critical acclaim in the field. Dive deeper into his work at www.pierfrancescocelada.com and follow his visual journey on Instagram: @fotografante.Tune in to this episode to:Traverse Pierfrancesco's photographic career, from its inception in the scientific field to the extensive urban studies in his latest projects.Unpack the narratives and artistic processes behind his major works.Understand the influence of rapid urbanization and digital social spaces on contemporary life.Don't forget to:Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the art of photography.Like and share this episode to appreciate the complex interplay of urban environments and photographic expression.Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.EPISODE LINKS: Pierfrancesco's Contact: www.pierfrancescocelada.com Pierfrancesco’s Instagram: @fotografanteMuddy Island Books: https://muddyisland.bigcartel.com/OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up…1:27 - Introduction and Background19:32 - Creation of a Publishing House24:03 - Documenting Urban Isolation in Japan35:54 - Experiences Documenting Hong Kong Protests42:29 - Instagram Pier Project57:43 - Real Estate and Urban Dynamics1:06:38 - Cultural Phenomenon of Hikikomori1:17:15 - Ethical Considerations in Documentary Photography1:23:38 - Photographic Composition and Technique1:27:44 - Dynamic Use of Instagram Pier1:35:48 - Adapting to COVID-19 Restrictions1:43:57 - 'Walking Circles' Project1:51:53 - Advice to Aspiring Photographers1:54:40 - Conclusion and Engagement EncouragementSOCIAL:Twitter: /UrbanautPodcastFacebook: /TheUrbanautPodcastInstagram: /TheUrbanautPodcastSupport on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast#PierfrancescoCelada #TheUrbanautPodcast #UrbanPhotography #DocumentaryPhotography #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #60: Brian Rose - Capturing NYC’s Transformation from the 80s to Today
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #60 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we sit down with renowned photographer Brian Rose, whose work has chronicled some of the most pivotal urban transformations of the past four decades. From the Lower East Side of Manhattan in the 1980sto the fall of the Berlin Wall and beyond, Brian’s photography is a powerful meditation on time, space, and history. About Our Guest: Brian Rose Born in Virginia, Brian moved to New York City in 1977 to study at Cooper Union, where he learned from legendary photographers Joel Meyerowitz and Larry Fink. His early work documenting the Lower East Side in the 1980s captured a city on the edge—chaotic, yet full of creative energy. Later, he embarked on a long-term project documenting the Iron Curtain and Berlin Wall, culminating in the critically acclaimed book The Lost Border. Brian’s photography has since spanned multiple cities and historical moments, from post-9/11 New York to the removal of Confederate statues in Richmond, Virginia. His images are held in prestigious collections, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Tune in to this episode to: - Discover Brian's journey from student to one of urban photography’s most compelling voices. - Hear behind-the-scenes stories from photographing New York in the 1980s, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and post-9/11 Lower Manhattan. - Explore his latest project on NYC subway’s last stops and how the city’s outer boroughs tell a deeper story than its landmarks - Gain insight into self-publishing and how Brian successfully sold 1,000 copies of his book with no advertising campaign. - Learn why photography is about more than just capturing an image—it’s about documenting history. EPISODE LINKS: Brian Rose's Website: www.brianrose.com | Instagram: @brianrosenyc3 OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up... 2:11 – Welcome to the show! Brian’s background and introduction 5:59 – The story of secretly buying his first camera at 16 9:30 – The reversal of photography trends: color vs. black-and-white 13:04 – Inside My Own Color Lab, the photography hub of 1980s NYC 16:20 – Moving to NYC in 1977 and experiencing the NYC blackout 21:53 – Documenting the Lower East Side in 1980—a neighborhood at its rawest 23:40 – Photographing the Iron Curtain and Berlin Wall (1985) 32:17 – Witnessing the fall of the Berlin Wall (1989) 39:09 – The role of photography in social movements 54:22 – Revisiting the Lower East Side after 9/11—capturing gentrification and transformation 1:07:06 – The “Last Stop” project: photographing the NYC subway’s final stations 1:25:27 – The debate: film vs. digital photography and evolving technology 1:34:43 – How Brian sold 1,000 books through self-publishing 1:42:20 – Why he refuses to dwell in nostalgia and continues to photograph the present 1:54:11 – Documenting cultural landscapes—Bangladeshi, Russian, and Orthodox Jewish communities in NYC 1:54:27 – Final reflections and advice for photographers: “Live in the present, photograph in the present.” Don't forget to: - Subscribe to our channel for more in-depth conversations on photography, art, and urban culture. - Like & share this episode to celebrate the rich visual storytelling of urban photography. - Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and future episodes! SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #BrianRose #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #UrbanPhotography #LowerEastSide #BerlinWall #NYCPhotography #SelfPublishing #PhotographyHistory #Urbanautica
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Ep.#59: The Transformative Art of Juan Fabuel - Stories of Place and Time
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #59 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this episode, we sit down with the remarkable Spanish artist Juan Fabuel. Known for his multidisciplinary approach, Juan’s work blends photography, anthropology, and installation art to explore themes of time, memory, movement, and representativeness. About our Guest: Juan Fabuel’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in both intimate and societal structures. Utilizing mediums such as photography, video, ceramics, and installation, he creates compelling works that traverse disciplines like anthropology, ecology, and futures studies. Juan’s projects, including 14:24, Blood Remembering, and Becoming Exergy, challenge conventional boundaries of photography, inviting audiences into profound dialogues about identity, place, and the passage of time. Tune into this Episode To: Learn about Juan’s artistic evolution, from his early inspirations to his current multidisciplinary practice. Delve into the personal and universal themes in projects like Blood Remembering and 14:24. Explore the philosophical and technical processes behind his work with darkness, sound, and memory. Gain insights into the intersection of art and anthropology. Don't forget to: Subscribe to our channel for more episodes diving into the world of art, photography, and anthropology. Like and share this episode to celebrate Juan’s creative and thought-provoking journey. Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Episode Links: Juan’s Instagram: @juan_fabuelJuan’s Website: www.juanfabuel.com Outline: 0:00 - Coming Up...0:48 - Welcome to Juan Fabuel2:41 - Juan’s multidisciplinary background and early inspirations4:34 - First memories of photography and learning from his grandfather7:18 - Grant project in Brazil combining photography and anthropology14:00 - Working with renowned artists and mentors23:32 - Life-changing feedback during studies at ICP45:30 - Completing his father’s dream in Blood Remembering56:46 - The creative use of darkness in 14:241:03:59 - Philosophical reflections on time and photography1:09:25 - A focus on breathing and political speech in Hold My Breath1:15:26 - Migration and human movement in 14:241:20:20 - Personal memory and lenticular images in Becoming Exergy1:45:00 - Audience interaction and impermanence in Blood Remembering1:52:56 - Reflections on migration and hope in 14:241:59:00 - Closing thoughts on agency and transformation through art Social: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #JuanFabuel #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #Anthropology #ArtisticExploration #DarknessInArt #VisualStorytelling #Migration #Memory #MultidisciplinaryArt #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #58: Unseen Worlds - Daniel Kariko’s Exploration of Environmental Narratives
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #58 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this insightful episode, we explore the intersections of art, science, and cultural identity with Daniel Kariko, a distinguished Professor of Fine Art Photography at East Carolina University. About Our Guest: Daniel Kariko Daniel Kariko's photography critically examines environmental, political, and cultural landscapes. His projects span from the war-torn Balkans to the rapidly eroding wetlands of Louisiana, capturing the profound changes within these environments. Kariko combines traditional photography with advanced imaging techniques, offering a unique perspective on the natural and built environments. Tune in to this episode to: - Discover the depth of Daniel's projects that document both the environmental degradation in Louisiana and the socio-political aftermath in Serbia. - Delve into his innovative use of scanning electron microscopy to portray suburban insect life, bridging the gap between art and scientific inquiry. - Hear Daniel's thoughts on the future of photography and its role in documenting and responding to global changes. Don't forget to: - Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the worlds of art, science, and cultural studies. - Like and share this episode to spread awareness about the environmental and cultural issues discussed. - Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up... 2:39 - Introduction and Early Inspirations: From Serbia to the U.S. 6:43 - First Darkroom Experience: A spark in the dark 14:42 - College Choices and Shift in Major: From engineering to art 24:53 -Artistic Influences: Shaping a minimalistic aesthetic 34:42 - Artificial Intelligence and Photography: Future impacts 40:28 - Ongoing Projects in Serbia: Merging personal history with social observation 49:02 - Social Commentary Through Art: Reflecting societal issues 57:26 - Cultural Identity and History: The Balkans' turbulent past 1:15:00 - Suburban Symbiosis Project: Art meets entomology 1:24:49 - Book Publication and Scientific Collaboration: Bridging disciplines 1:35:34 - Environmental Changes in Louisiana: Documenting ecological shifts 1:45:00 - Future of Photography and Art: Anticipating changes 1:55:27 - Reflections on Personal and Artistic Growth: A lifetime of insights 2:05:49 - Closing Thoughts and Look Ahead: The evolving nature of art and photography SOCIAL: Twitter: /TheUrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #DanielKariko #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #EnvironmentalArt #DocumentaryPhotography #ArtScience #Urbanautica
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Ep. #57: From the Hilltops of Northern Portugal - Maria Oliveira on Memory and Transition
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #57 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this inspiring episode, we sit down with the deeply reflective Portuguese artist-photographer Maria Oliveira. Her work bridges memory, place, and the human connection to nature, offering an intimate exploration of her artistic philosophy and process. About Our Guest: Maria Oliveira Maria Oliveira's work is rooted in her upbringing in a small, isolated village in northern Portugal, where silence and nature shaped her artistic voice. Her projects explore themes of memory, motherhood, connection to place, and the fragility of life. Maria's poetic perspective merges the visible and the intangible, creating works that are as introspective as they are universal. Through photography and writing, she examines transitions and the cycles of existence, reflecting a unique sensitivity to the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. Tune in to this episode to: Discover Maria’s journey from poetry to photography and how writing remains integral to her creative process. Explore her projects, from revisiting her childhood home to working with her mother and capturing the fragility of salt fields. Gain insights into Maria’s artistic philosophy, which emphasizes freedom, intuition, and connection to place. Delve into the themes of spirituality, feminine archetypes, and the role of silence in creativity. Don’t forget to: Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that explore the intersections of art, photography, and human connection. Like and share this episode to celebrate Maria’s poetic and reflective artistry. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Episode Links: Website: www.mariaoliveira.pt | Instagram: @___maria.oliveira___ OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up...2:30 - Introduction and Maria’s Background3:11 - Growing up in an isolated village and its influence6:54 - Starting with poetry as her first artistic expression8:44 - Transitioning to photography and discovering her medium9:44 - Writing as part of her creative process10:44 - Family influence and the absence of an artistic background13:17 - How silence and emptiness shaped her introspection and creativity27:39 - Poetry’s influence and connection to nature37:54 - Revisiting her childhood home and its impact on her work46:37 - Working with her mother and strengthening their bond1:04:54 - Freedom and intuition in her creative practice1:12:07 - The fragility of nature through the metaphor of salt fields1:32:20 - Spirituality, mysticism, and blending the practical with the poetic1:54:12 - Closing reflections on art, place, and Maria’s evolving projects SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #MariaOliveira #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #PortugueseArt #VisualPoetry #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #56: Art, Intuition, and Imagination - Inside Lisa De Boeck’s World with memymom
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #56 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. This episode features the extraordinary mother-daughter artist duo, memymom—Lisa De Boeck and Marilène Coolens. Together, they’ve spent decades creating an evocative, intergenerational body of photographic work exploring themes of identity, memory, and transformation. About Our Guests: memymom Memymom is a unique collaborative project between self-taught artists Lisa De Boeck and her mother, Marilène Coolens, based in Brussels, Belgium. Their work began as a playful photographic archive called The Umbilical Vein (1990–2003), capturing staged, dreamlike moments that reflect their deep bond. Over the years, their practice evolved into highly conceptual and visually intricate projects like The Digital Decade (2010–2015), Somewhere Under the Rainbow (2016–2021), and the ongoing The Fourth Hatch (2022–2032). Highlight: The Fourth Hatch Their latest chapter, The Fourth Hatch, expands the memymom universe into new temporal and thematic territory. Exploring themes of evolution, legacy, and reinvention, this project continues their tradition of layered narratives and emotional aesthetics, offering a glimpse into their collaborative vision for the future of their work. Tune in to this episode to: - Discover how Lisa and Marilène evolved from casual photography to professional artistry under the moniker memymom. - Explore their acclaimed series, including The Umbilical Vein, The Digital Decade, Somewhere Under the Rainbow, and The Fourth Hatch. - Delve into their creative processes, including how they balance individual voices within their collaboration. - Hear Lisa’s reflections on trusting gut intuition, adapting to changing times, and the emotional highs and lows of large-scale exhibitions. Don’t forget to: - Subscribe to our channel for more in-depth conversations with inspiring artists. - Like and share this episode to celebrate the power of collaborative art. - Follow us on social media for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and updates. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up... 2:04 - Lisa’s Introduction and Creative Partnership with Her Mom 3:01 - The Digital Decade 5:58 - Loss of Geert Stadius 10:26 - Family Creativity and Humor 21:50 - Transition Behind the Camera 29:00 - Hollywood Dreamscape 37:17 - Cultural Critique: Disney Ears and Dystopia 47:46 - The Umbilical Vein Archive 55:28 - Exploring Image Stories 1:05:04 - Significance of Titles in Art 1:15:29 - Creating Artistic Chapters 1:23:12 - Exploring Solo Work 1:27:04 - Adapting to Changing Times 1:47:46 - The Emotional Weight of Exhibitions 2:03:17 - Gut Feelings and Creative Direction Learn More About memymom: 🌐 Website: @ 📸 Instagram: @memymom | @lisa.de.boeck SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #LisaDeBoeck #MarilèneCoolens #memymom #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #CollaborativeArt #BelgianArt #ArtisticJourney #TheFourthHatch #MemoryAndIdentity #VisualNarratives #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #55: Man Inside a Camera - John Chiara’s Unique Large-Format Masterpieces
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #55 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanutica.com. In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with John Chiara, a visionary photographer who has revolutionized analog photography by crafting his own cameras, developing unique processes, and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. About Our Guest: John Chiara After dedicating an extended period in 1995 to making contact prints from his 2-1/4" x 2-1/4" negatives, John Chiara discovered that too much information was lost in the darkroom enlargement process. Over the next six years, he developed his own equipment and processes to create first-generation unique photographs without using film. Chiara’s work is a hybrid of photography, sculpture, and performance. His process demands inventive tools and immense patience. Using a hand-built 50" x 80" field camera transported on a flatbed trailer, Chiara creates one-of-a-kind photographs. He physically enters the camera, maneuvers large sheets of positive color photographic paper, and uses his hands to burn and dodge during exposures. The resulting images bear traces of this tactile process, combining soft hues with a strong sense of materiality and ephemeral presence. Chiara’s work has been exhibited at prestigious venues worldwide, including the J. Paul Getty Museum, the George Eastman Museum, and the de Young Museum. He has been commissioned by the Pilara Foundation and participated in exhibitions at the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. and the Museum Barengasse in Zurich, among others. Tune in to this episode to: - Discover John’s creative journey, from his early inspirations to his boundary-pushing techniques. - Explore the philosophy behind his unique photographic process. - Hear captivating stories of resilience, innovation, and artistic exploration, from New York to the Swiss Alps. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up… 4:41 - Empowering Perspective 7:00 - Early Inspirations 13:43 - Teenage Crime Scene Assignment 20:06 - Crafting Custom Cameras 25:08 - Influential Artists 30:23 - Memory vs. Nostalgia 45:09 - Controlled Chaos 56:51 - Reinventing New York 1:16:31 - Manhattan Living 1:24:43 - European Travel Mishap 1:26:36 - Swiss Alps During Lockdown 1:29:11 - Art as Process 1:56:17 - Advice for Artist and Photogrpahers EPISODE LINKS: John’s Website: www.johnchiara.com John’s Instagram: @john.chiara_ SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast Don’t forget to: - Subscribe to our channel for more conversations with groundbreaking artists. - Like and share this episode to celebrate creative innovation in analog photography. - Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content. #JohnChiara #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #AnalogPhotography #ExperimentalArt #ArtisticInnovation #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #54: Landscapes in Transition - Richard Chivers on the Art of Photographing Landscapes in Flux
The Urbanaut Pidcast - Richard Chivers🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #54 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this fascinating episode, we sit down with British photographer Richard Chivers, whose work documents the transformation of the British landscape. Richard shares insights into his creative process, personal and professional projects, and the environmental and cultural narratives that inspire him.About Our Guest: Richard Chivers About our guest: Richard Chivers is a documentary photographer whose work explores the shaping and reshaping of the British landscape. His practice focuses on how humans modify both urban and natural environments through infrastructure, industry, housing, and leisure—and how these changes affect and define our world. Richard has received multiple Arts Council awards to create, curate, and exhibit his work, which has been showcased across the UK and internationally. As the co-founder of the Human Endeavour photography collective, Richard developed projects such as Degeneration and The Glasgow Effect, which were exhibited at the Brighton Photo Fringe and the Format International Photography Festival. Now a member of the MAP6 Collective, Richard has worked on recent projects in Milton Keynes, The Shetland Islands, Finland, and Wales. Episode Links: Website: www.rchiversphoto.co.ukInstagram: @chiversphotoprojects Tune in to this episode to: Learn how Richard’s upbringing and influences shaped his photographic voice. Explore the cultural and environmental narratives behind his projects, from industrial quarries to disappearing gas holders. Delve into his documentation of the decline of social housing in Degeneration. Understand the balance between professional architectural photography and personal exploration. Discover his process-driven approach to photographing the British landscape. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Most Replayed0:55 - Richard’s Background and Introduction2:41 - Early Influences: Family and Film5:10 - Switching Careers to Pursue Photography12:03 - University Projects: Insecurity and Early Style11:23 - Exploring Urban and Industrial Landscapes37:24 - The Fascination with Quarries and Geology45:04 - Photographing Greenham Common and Nuclear History1:05:15 - The Collective Project: Degeneration1:14:21 - Documenting the Decline of Gas Holders1:19:00 - Architectural Photography as a Career1:25:00 - Balancing Personal and Professional Projects1:30:29 - Reflection on Process and the Enjoyment of Photography1:34:00 - Challenges of Photographing Familiar Spaces1:42:10 - Nature Reclaiming Industrial Sites1:50:00 - Documenting Social and Environmental Change SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #RichardChivers #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #UrbanLandscapes #ArchitecturalPhotography #MAP6Collective #VisualNarrative #ArtisticProcess #Urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #53: Solar Arcs and Human Stories - Al Brydon’s Unique Vision
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #53 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this inspiring episode, we sit down with British photographer Al Brydon, whose evocative work explores the intersections of time, place, and memory. Known for his solargraph series and co-founding the 'Inside the Outside' collective, Al offers a glimpse into his creative process and philosophical musings on photography. About Our Guest: Al Brydon Al Brydon is a Sheffield-based photographer whose work delves into experimental and narrative-driven photography. A co-founder of the 'Inside the Outside' collective, Al is celebrated for projects like his solargraph series, which uses pinhole cameras to capture long-exposure images over months. His practice reflects a fascination with deep time, imperfection, and the unseen, creating a layered exploration of landscapes and human connection. Al’s work has been exhibited globally and featured in publications such as Solargraphs and Even the Birds Were Afraid to Fly. Tune in to this episode to: Discover how Al’s life in Sheffield and the Peak District shapes his creative outlook. Learn about the six-year journey behind his solargraph series and its philosophical underpinnings. Reflect on the role of chaos and destruction in art as a means of creation. Explore the process of turning experimental projects into photobooks. Gain insights into Al’s approach to storytelling and capturing the ephemeral. Don’t forget to: Like this episode to support meaningful conversations about art and photography. Subscribe to our channel for more in-depth interviews with photographers and creatives. Share this episode with your community to inspire discussion about experimental photography. EPISODE LINKS: Solargraph Prints: Argentea Gallery Based on a False Story Prints: MMX Gallery Al's New Book: Even the Birds Were Afraid to Fly: Link Follow Al on Instagram: @al_brydon Website: www.al-brydon.com OUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up…3:28 - Life in Sheffield: Finding inspiration in an industrial and natural landscape14:32 - Darkroom Revelations: Discovering the magic of photography21:41 - Embracing Chaos: A creative philosophy of destruction and imperfection28:32 - Mirror or Window? Reflecting on photography’s dual purpose40:37 - Solargraphy Explained: Capturing deep time and unseen changes49:18 - Time and Perspective: Exploring non-human perceptions of time56:52 - A Forest’s Death: Documenting the destruction of a pine plantation1:00:18 - Pandemic Anchor: Solargraphs as a source of solace during lockdown1:13:16 - Influences and Inspirations: The artists who shaped Al’s work1:16:56 - Photobook Creation: Turning Solargraphs into a published work1:32:18 - Stories in the Landscape: Unexpected narratives in photography1:47:00 - The Philosophy of Forgetting: Memory, absence, and ephemeral art1:51:14 - Reflections on Art: Intention, interpretation, and artistic legacy SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #AlBrydon #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #Solargraphs #ExperimentalPhotography #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #52: Reclaim the Past - Rebecca Simons on Turning Family History into Powerful Visual Narratives
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #52 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Finnish artist, educator, and curator Rebecca Simons. Her multidisciplinary work examines the complexities of family, trauma, and memory, offering immersive experiences that challenge conventional storytelling. About Our Guest: Rebecca Simons Rebecca Simons is a Swedish-speaking Finnish artist whose practice spans photography, video, installation, and community engagement. Her work delves into intergenerational trauma, exploring family dynamics and memory preservation through innovative methods. Based in the Netherlands, Rebecca is a teacher at Willem de Kooning Academy and a member of the SAAC (Sexually Abused Artists Collective). Her deeply personal yet collaborative approach has made her a vital voice in contemporary art. Tune in to this episode to: Discover how Rebecca’s family history inspired her art and storytelling. Learn how she integrates archival materials, such as photographs and letters, into her work. Understand the impact of multidisciplinary art on addressing complex social issues. Explore her collaborative projects, such as Daughters and her work with SAAC. Don’t forget to: Subscribe to our channel for more episodes diving into the world of art and photography. Like and share this episode to spotlight Rebecca’s important work. Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Rebecca’s Website: rebeccasimons.com SAAC Collective: saacamsterdam.com OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up… 2:48 - Rebecca’s background and introduction 5:14 - Transition from painting to photography as an interactive medium 7:39 - Multidisciplinary approach and artistic identity 20:17 - Personal storytelling as a tool for healing and dialogue 28:43 - Collaboration within her family and the healing process 33:08 - Using archival material to create layered narratives 42:11 - Immersive installations and their impact on viewers 56:58 - The role of resin in preserving memory and reclaiming narratives 1:13:54 - Rebecca’s involvement with SAAC and collective storytelling 1:21:21 - Thoughts and Advice for Artist and Image Makers SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #RebeccaSimons #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #MultidisciplinaryArt #TraumaHealing #SAAC #FamilyNarratives #ArchivalArt #ContemporaryPhotography #Urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #51: The American Scene: John Sanderson’s Journey through American Landscapes
The Urbanaut Podcast - John Sanderson🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #51 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. This episode delves into the evocative landscapes of America through the lens of distinguished photographer John Sanderson. His work captures the transformation and decay of environments shaped by history and human interaction. About Our Guest: John Sanderson John Sanderson's photography is shaped by his upbringing in New York and his family’s Vaudeville history, melding a deep connection to American landscapes with narrative-driven imagery. His large format photography captures scenes from urban decay to rural serenity, exploring the interplay between man and environment. Tune in to this episode to: Discover the evolution of John's career and his approach to capturing the American landscape. Explore the stories and artistic insights behind his significant projects like "Railway Landscapes" and "National Character." Understand how John's photography reflects broader socio-political themes and personal history. Don't forget to: Subscribe to our channel for more insights into the world of art and photography. Like and share this episode to explore the profound narratives within American landscapes. Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up… 3:28 - Background and Influence 6:56 - Discovery of Large Format Photography 13:54 - Influence of Winston Link and American Modernist Painters 22:54 - Photographic Philosophy and Emotional Connection 30:14 - Globalization and Homogenization of Places 9:52 - Relevance of Post-Industrial Landscapes 47:32 - Artistic Integrity and the Role of the Soul 52:07 - Challenges of Large Format Photography 1:04:58 - Artistic Perspective and Visual Approach 1:09:05 - Project Narratives and Inspirations 1:15:31 - Timelessness of Railroad Landscapes 1:54:32 - Culmination and Reflections 2:03:54 - Closing Remarks and Future Aspirations EPISODE LINKS: John’s Website: john-sanderson.com John’s Instagram: @johnsandersonphotographer SOCIAL: Twitter: /TheUrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #JohnSanderson #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #AmericanLandscapes #DocumentaryPhotography #RailwayLandscapes #NationalCharacter #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #50: Blurring Reality and Imagination - Boris Eldagsen’s Promptography Journey
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #50 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this fascinating episode, we sit down with the innovative German photomedia artist Boris Eldagsen. Renowned for his deep exploration of the unconscious mind, Boris’s work blends photography, theater, painting, and film to create symbolic visual poetry that exists between the sublime and the uncanny. About Our Guest: Boris Eldagsen Boris Eldagsen is a Berlin-based photomedia artist whose career spans over two decades. His work delves into the unconscious, crafting evocative images and immersive installations that connect with viewers on an intuitive, dreamlike level. From "Inverted Street Photography" to cutting-edge AI image-making—termed "promptography"—Boris continuously pushes the boundaries of art and technology. With exhibitions worldwide and collaborations with leading institutions, Boris remains a pioneer in exploring humanity’s collective unconscious through art. Tune in to this episode to: - Explore the origins of Boris’s groundbreaking "promptography" and AI image-making. - Learn how Boris combines archetypes, symbolism, and technology to craft his evocative art. - Discover how his personal philosophy and experiences shape his creative journey. - Reflect on the societal and artistic implications of AI in visual storytelling. Outline: 0:00 - Coming Up… 3:30 - Early Artistic Influences and Transition to Photography 7:23 - Philosophy and Artistic Foundations 11:11 - Discovering Yin and Yang in His Work 18:05 - Collaboration with Roger Ballen 22:45 - The Concept of Inverted Street Photography 28:18 - Transition to Staged Photography 47:27 - Evolution of Immersive Installations 1:00:17 - Collaborative Work and AI Experimentation 1:02:19 - Philosophy of AI and Promptography 1:13:50 - Creativity as Problem-Solving 1:20:53 - The Future of AI and Art 1:41:27 - Overcoming Misconceptions About AI in Art 1:53:35 - Exploring Human Condition and Subconscious Themes 1:58:27 - Returning to Black-and-White Imagery 2:00:45 - Closing Thoughts on Collaboration and Future Projects Don’t forget to: - Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that explore the intersection of art, technology, and the unconscious. - Like and share this episode to celebrate the evolution of visual storytelling. - Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Boris's Website: www.eldagsen.com Instagram: @boriseldagsen SOCIAL: - Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast - Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast - Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast - Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #BorisEldagsen #TheUrbanautPodcast #AIArt #Photography #Promptography #VisualPoetry #TheUnconsciousMind #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #49: Post-Photography and Place - Kyler Zeleny on Storytelling in the Canadian Prairie
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #49 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this episode, we journey with Canadian photographer and educator Kyler Zeleny, whose work delves deeply into the Canadian prairies and the stories within rural communities. Kyler’s trilogy of photo books captures the essence of small-town life, exploring the beauty, resilience, and complexities of the rural landscape. About Our Guest: Kyler ZelenyKyler Zeleny (b. 1988) is an accomplished Canadian photographer, educator, and author, holding degrees in Political Science, Photography and Urban Cultures, and a PhD in Communication & Culture. With published works like Out West, Found Polaroids, Crown Ditch & The Prairie Castle, and Bury Me in the Back Forty, Kyler has documented rural life on the prairies for over a decade. His work, featured in publications like The Globe & Mail, The Guardian, and The Washington Post, reflects his ongoing exploration of rural identity and urban-rural contrasts. You can follow Kyler's journey and works on Instagram at @kylerzeleny or on his website at kylerzeleny.com. Tune in to this episode to: Discover the origins of Kyler’s trilogy documenting rural Canadian life: Explore his inspirations drawn from his academic and artistic background, and how his rural upbringing on the Canadian prairies continues to shape his artistic philosophy. Delve into his reflections on “post-photography” in an AI-driven era, where traditional photography blends with digital and archival storytelling. Hear Kyler’s philosophy on respecting the creative process and pursuing knowledge, as he shares insights on capturing rurality's “roses and thorns.” Learn about the “hero’s journey” in his work, as Kyler returns to his roots to create a layered narrative of rural life. Don't forget to: Subscribe to our channel for more episodes exploring art, photography, and place. Like and share this episode to celebrate the stories and landscapes of the Canadian prairies. Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content. EPISODE LINKS: Kyler’s Contact: www.kylerzeleny.com Kyler’s Instagram: @kylerzeleny OUTLINE:0:00 - Introduction to Kyler’s Trilogy8:56 - Farm Background and Early Photography Beginnings14:37 - Influence of New Topographic Photographers35:09 - The “Hero’s Journey” and Storytelling36:51 - Exploration of ‘Found Polaroids’52:34 - Loneliness and Spiritual Connection to Rural Life1:25:22 - Reflections on ‘Post-Photography’1:30:38 - The Rose Metaphor1:32:08 - Layered Storytelling in Photography1:59:44 - Creating a Roadmap of Past, Present, and Future2:06:08 - Final Reflections and Advice to Photographers SOCIAL: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #KylerZeleny #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #CanadianPrairies #DocumentaryPhotography #RuralIdentity #OutWest #CrownDitch #BuryMeInTheBackForty #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #48: Forgotten Villages - Elvis’s Memphis and Japan’s Aging Villages with Damien Drew
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #48 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this insightful episode, we are joined by the visionary Damien Drew—an accomplished production designer and an evocative photographer. Damien’s unique perspective bridges architecture, film, and photography, creating a compelling narrative on the transformation and loss of authentic places across global landscapes. Damien Drew’s work critically examines the evolving relationship between humans and their built environments. Capturing what he sees as the loss of distinct “place” in favor of homogenized spaces, Drew invites us to consider the beauty of impermanence. His celebrated exhibitions, Everywhere was Wherever and Wabi-Sabi, depict vanishing cultural landscapes, from America’s southern towns to rural Japan. Through his evocative lens, Drew reframes the forgotten or decaying as spaces of quiet reflection, beauty, and introspection. Tune in to this episode to: Journey through Damien’s transition from architecture into film and photography. Understand how his architectural training influences his documentary approach to photography. Explore his projects, Shikoku Silence and Wabi Sabi, which capture the melancholic beauty of impermanent spaces in rural Japan. Gain insight into Damien’s reflections on globalization’s impact on cultural identity and unique environments. Discover his role in the art direction and production design for Elvis, where he helped recreate 1950s and 1970s Memphis to tell the story of the iconic musician. Don't Forget to: Subscribe for more in-depth discussions with visionary artists and photographers. Like and share this episode to support thoughtful dialogue on visual storytelling and cultural shifts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Episode links: Damien’s Website: damiendrew.com Damien’s Photography Portfolio: photography.damiendrew.com Damien’s Instagram: @damien_drew Outline: 0:00 - Introduction to Damien and his Work3:00 - Discovering Photography as a Teenager4:26 - Studying Architecture and Its Influence on Visual Storytelling9:43 - Entering the Film Industry Through Serendipity17:45 - Cross-Country Motorcycle Journey in the U.S. as Creative Inspiration24:18 - Observing Homogeneity Across American Small Towns33:52 - Cultural Loss and the Importance of Architectural Documentation1:05:22 - Parallel Passion for Photography in Film1:10:56 - The Decline of Japanese Rural Villages in Shikoku Silence1:17:33 - Tokyo’s Traditional Markets vs. Modern Consumerism1:28:07 - Trusting One's Creative Voice Over External Feedback1:32:29 - Japan’s “Night Movers” Company and Themes of Reinvention1:40:15 - Production Design Work on Elvis and Recreating 1950s Memphis1:52:06 - Emotional Connection Through Personal Projects Over Commercial Success1:55:18 - Solitude in Independent Creative Work1:56:58 - Advice on Following Your Authentic Voice in Art Our Social Media: Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #DamienDrew #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #CulturalDocumentation #VisualStorytelling #WabiSabi #ShikokuSilence #UrbanExploration #ElvisMovie #ArtDirection #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard About Our Guest: Damien DrewTune in to this episode to:Don’t forget to:EPISODE LINKS:OUTLINE:SOCIAL:
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Ep. #47: Embracing Emptiness: A Conversation with Ruth Lauer Manenti on Art and Memory
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #47 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this intimate and reflective episode, we welcome the inspiring artist-photographer Ruth Lauer Manenti. Ruth’s journey is a profound narrative of resilience, memory, and art, shaped by her family’s legacy and her spiritual practice. Her current projects, Excerpts/I Imagined It Empty and Engravings, explore themes of life’s impermanence and the quiet beauty in everyday moments. About Our Guest: Ruth Lauer ManentiRuth Lauer Manenti received her MFA from Yale in painting and drawing and later transitioned to photography, achieving what she had long sought through drawing and painting. Inspired by her parents’ poetic sensibilities — her father’s reverence for life’s transience and her mother’s gratitude for nature’s simplicity — Ruth’s work captures the fragility and fleeting beauty of life. Currently pursuing her MFA in photography at Hartford University, she continues to deepen her exploration of memory, spirituality, and the traces of loved ones we carry with us. Tune in to this episode to: Hear about Ruth’s creative evolution from painting to photography and her journey toward artistic authenticity. Explore the narratives behind her projects Excerpts/I Imagined It Empty and Engravings, inspired by her home in the Catskill Mountains. Reflect on themes of loss, family legacy, and the meaningful moments of shared existence captured in her photographs. Don’t forget to: Subscribe to our channel for more insights from artists who bring unique perspectives to photography. Like and share this episode to celebrate the transformative power of memory and art. Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKSRuth’s Website: Ruth Lauer Manenti OUTLINE0:00 - Most Replayed1:02 - Ruth’s Background and the Early Influence of Family8:33 - Discovering Photography and Leaving Painting15:24 - Art as a Lifeline and Therapeutic Practice22:02 - Embracing Emptiness in Art and Life30:00 - Excerpts/I Imagined It Empty — Capturing Memories of Her Mother40:11 - Photographing the Beauty of the Everyday50:17 - Reflections on Family, Legacy, and Time1:02:27 - How Ruth Hopes Her Art Impacts Viewers1:11:08 - The Vulnerability of Sharing Personal Work1:39:05 - Creating Art as a Continuum of Family and Memory SOCIAL Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #RuthLauerManenti #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #CatskillMountains #IImaginedItEmpty #ArtisticProcess #MemoryAndLegacy #urbanautica
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Ep. #46: By Rail and By Sea - Documenting Infrastructure Through Time with Scott Conarroe
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #46 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we sit down with the brilliant Canadian photographer Scott Conarroe, whose large-format landscape photography has redefined how we view the intersection of infrastructure, mobility, and the environment. About Our Guest: Scott Conarroe Scott Conarroe is known for his expansive projects “By Rail" and "By Sea", which document North American landscapes shaped by human infrastructure. His work, often photographed at twilight or dawn, evokes a sense of nostalgia while addressing contemporary issues such as climate change and globalization. With his masterful use of time and perspective, Scott’s photography transcends simple documentation, serving as visual time capsules that reflect on the past, present, and future of our built environments. His photographs have been exhibited in prestigious galleries around the world, and his projects continue to influence the discourse on landscape aesthetics in contemporary photography. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Scott's unique approach to photography, focusing on observation, process, and how infrastructure defines landscapes. * Learn about his "By Rail" and "By Sea" projects and how they chronicle the historical and cultural significance of North American railways and coastlines. * Delve into Scott’s philosophy on the power of long-exposure photography and the importance of being present in the moment. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more deep dives into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to support artists and photographers who are reshaping the way we see the world. * Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates on upcoming episodes. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up... 2:45 - Introduction and Approach to Photography 4:17 - Transition from Printmaking to Photography 6:04 - Connection Between Photography and Early Interests in Skateboarding and Skiing 12:40 - Revelation on Time and Process in Long-Exposure Photography 20:36 - Photographing Twilight and Dawn: Natural and Artificial Light 25:13 - Philosophy of Process Over Product 28:36 - Beginning of the "By Rail" Project 31:28 - Work on "By Rail" and "By Sea": Human Infrastructure and the Environment 38:19 - Capturing the Layering of Infrastructure in North America 48:08 - Discoveries Through Photography: The More You Look, the More You See 1:12:14 - Curatorial Influence and Trusting Others’ Interpretations 1:20:11 - Balanced Approach to Life and Art: Loving Detachment 1:24:14 - Fatherhood’s Influence on Artistic Practice 1:38:19 - Evolution of Scott’s Work: A New Chapter Emerging 1:48:04 - Advice for Aspiring Image Makers and Scott’s Younger Self EPISODE LINKS: Scott’s Website: [scottconarroe.com](http://scottconarroe.com) Scott’s Instagram: [@scottconarroe](https://www.instagram.com/scottconarroe) SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #ScottConarroe #TheUrbanautPodcast #LandscapePhotography #ByRail #BySea #NorthAmericanInfrastructure #VisualTimeCapsule #ArtisticProcess #EnvironmentalPhotography #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #45: Fragile Lands, Enduring Spirits - From the Arctic to the Amazon with Joel Redman
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #45 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we are thrilled to sit down with the incredibly insightful British photographer Joel Redman, whose work spans across the globe, focusing on communities, climate change, and the environment. About Our Guest: Joel Redman Joel Redman’s photography explores the delicate relationship between people and landscapes, from the deserts of North America to the Arctic Circle, capturing the intersection of human presence and environmental fragility. His work has been exhibited at prestigious venues like the National Portrait Gallery and the Royal Academy of Arts, and he was shortlisted for the International Photographer of the Year at the Lucie Awards. In this episode, Joel delves into his significant projects, including "Stray from the Path", "The North Chose Us", and "Resistance", sharing personal stories and the motivations behind his work documenting indigenous communities and fragile environments. Tune in to this episode to: * Journey through Joel’s career and hear the stories behind his key projects. * Explore the tension between human interaction and natural landscapes, as seen in "Stray from the Path". * Learn about the challenges facing indigenous communities, like the Sámi people in Lapland, and their fight for survival in "The North Chose Us". * Understand the ongoing resistance of indigenous peoples in Brazil against colonialism and environmental destruction in "Resistance". Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more thought-provoking episodes on art and photography. * Like and share this episode to spread awareness of Joel’s powerful work on environmental and cultural preservation. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 1:42 - Introduction to Joel Redman’s work 3:13 - Joel’s meditative approach to photography 6:37 - Year spent working with indigenous communities 8:26 - Founding the charity “If Not Us Then Who” 10:55 - Early struggles with film development 18:10 - Learning from renowned photographers 25:55 - Influence of Alec Soth on Joel’s photography 33:11- Growing up in apartheid South Africa 47:04 - Ethical approach to working with indigenous communities 50:47 - Revisiting the Yurok Tribe in Northern California 1:02:14 - Importance of patience in photography 1:05:27 - Documenting the Sami people and their struggles in Lapland 1:37:04 - Exploring fragile environments through photography 1:51:40 - Long-term storytelling and revisiting communities 2:04:17 - Closing reflections on photography and storytelling These adjusted times reflect the new starting points for each significant moment in the episode. SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #JoelRedman #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #ClimateChange #SamiPeople #IndigenousCommunities #StrayFromThePath #EnvironmentalPhotography #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #44: Revolutionary Legacy - Thero Makepe on Family, Art, and Botswana
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #44 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this episode, we are thrilled to sit down with Botswana-born artist-photographer Thero Makepe, whose work explores personal and societal narratives through the lens of photography. Thero shares his creative journey, diving into how his projects like “Fly Machine”, "Music From My Good Eye", and "We Didn't Choose to be Born Here" reflect themes of memory, identity, activism, and family legacy. About Our Guest: Thero Makepe Thero Makepe was born and raised in Gaborone, Botswana, and is currently working between Gaborone, Cape Town, and Johannesburg. A graduate with distinction from the University of Cape Town in Fine Arts, his practice focuses on photography, examining the intersection of personal history and national narratives in Botswana and South Africa. He is a founding member of the Botswana Pavilion, an artist collective dedicated to developing Botswana’s artistic archive. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore "Fly Machine", a project paying tribute to a Botswana fighter pilot who sacrificed his life, and how Thero uses photography to explore collective memory and mortality. * Delve into "Music From My Good Eye", a visual “album” dedicated to Thero’s blind grandfather, a jazz musician who fled apartheid, and how this project ties into family history and activism. * Discover "We Didn't Choose to be Born Here", a photobook blending personal stories with socio-political history in Botswana and South Africa. Don’t forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more in-depth discussions on photography and visual storytelling. * Like and share this episode to celebrate African art and the power of narrative in photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.Episode Links: Instagram: @theromakepe Website: www.theromakepe.com OUTLINE:0:00 - Coming Up 4:05 - Thero's Introduction and Artistic Background 6:45 - Early Influences in Storytelling 8:14 - Transition from Painting to Photography 10:30 - Functional Approach to Photography 13:22 - The Impact of His Grandfather’s Blindness 15:57 - Learning to Play His Grandfather's Trombone 22:26 - Great-Uncle’s Role in the Sharpeville Massacre 25:35 - Exploring Family Activism in His Art 44:19 - Childhood Mischief and Artistic Influence 51:25 - Fly Machine Project 1:05:33 - Creating 'Music From My Good Eye' Project 1:17:45 - Reflections on His Role as a Black Fine Arts Graduate 1:39:41 - Connection to Revolutionary Figures in His Family 1:46:52 - The Importance of Being a Cultural Revolutionary 1:54:25 - The Role of Community in His Work SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #TheroMakepe #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #BotswanaArt #VisualStorytelling #CulturalIdentity #AfricanArt #ActivismThroughArt #FlyMachine #MusicFromMyGoodEye #WeDidntChooseToBeBornHere #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #43: Exploring Life’s Journeys: Paul Walsh on Walking the UK Canals and his Spainish Pilgrimage
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #43 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this episode, we sit down with the insightful British photographer Paul Walsh. Known for his evocative work that blends walking and photography, Paul’s art captures deep connections between landscape, memory, and personal transformation. About Our Guest: Paul Walsh Paul Walsh’s work spans industrial landscapes, nocturnal photography, and long-distance pilgrimages. His latest project, "Walking with Strangers", documents his 1,700-kilometer pilgrimage across Spain. Paul’s photographic journey is deeply introspective, influenced by his experiences growing up in Birmingham and his meditative walks. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Paul’s journey from painting to photography. * Learn how walking plays a pivotal role in his creative process. * Hear powerful stories from his pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago. Don’t forget to: * Subscribe for more episodes exploring the intersection of art and life. * Like and share this episode to support the podcast. * Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes updates. EPISODE LINKS: Paul’s Website: paulwalshphotography.co.uk Paul’s Instagram: @paulwalshphotography OUTLINE: 1:24 – Introduction and Paul’s Background 3:13 – Walking as a Creative Process 4:12 – Different Approaches to Walking in Projects 7:35 – Transition from Painting to Photography 11:47 – Childhood Exploration of Birmingham’s Canals 22:53 – Walking as Meditation and Reflection 49:50 – Canal Journey from London to Birmingham 58:56 – Insomnia and Night Photography 1:19:28 – Story of a Pilgrim Helping Paul on the Camino 1:25:13 – Documenting the Camino de Santiago 2:02:16 – Paul’s New Book and Photo Book Insights 2:04:36 – Artistic Growth and Future Projects SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: @TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #PaulWalsh #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #WalkingWithStrangers #CaminoDeSantiago #MAP6Collective #WalkingArt #VisualNarrative #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #42: Fading Landscapes - Martin Cregg on Photography, Heritage, and Rural Ireland
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #42 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this insightful episode, we sit down with the renowned Irish photographer and educator Martin Cregg. His work masterfully captures the evolving landscape of rural and urban Ireland, blending personal heritage with broader socio-political themes. About Our Guest: Martin Cregg Martin Cregg is an acclaimed photographer based in Dublin, where he serves as Coordinator of Photography at Pearse College of Further Education. Known for his long-term projects, Martin’s work explores the transformation of Irish landscapes during pivotal periods, such as the Celtic Tiger era and the Irish War of Independence. His projects, including “Midlands”, “A Fading Landscape”, and “The Plot”, combine personal reflection with documentary precision, making his photography both intimate and universally resonant. Martin has been twice nominated for the prestigious Prix Pictet (2010 & 2016) and has exhibited internationally, including at *Les Rencontres d'Arles* (France) and *PhotoIreland*. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore the development of Martin’s major projects like “Midlands”, “A Fading Landscape”, and “The Plot”. * Learn how Martin captures Ireland’s evolving landscapes and documents the effects of economic and social change on rural communities. * Discover the personal connections to heritage that inform his work, particularly the emotional depth behind “A Fading Landscape”. * Delve into “The Plot”, a project focused on the Irish War of Independence, and how historical testimonies shape Martin’s photographic process. * Gain valuable advice for emerging photographers on how to balance personal narrative with broader cultural contexts. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more deep dives into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to support Martin’s unique vision of Irish photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: * Martin’s Website: martincreggphotography.com * Martin’s Instagram: @martincregg.photography OUTLINE: 0:00 - Introduction to Martin Cregg 5:21 - Discovering Photography Through Video Production 10:24 - The Influence of Rural Upbringing on Creativity 29:43 - Starting Long-Term Projects: The Development of "Midlands" 37:53 - Capturing Ireland’s Economic Changes in "Midlands" 47:41 - Reflecting on Nature’s Reclamation in the "Midlands" Project 51:27 - Influence of the American New Topographics Movement 1:21:54 - Introduction to "A Fading Landscape": Exploring Heritage and Identity 1:24:44 - Processing Personal Guilt and Disconnection in "A Fading Landscape" 1:40:55 - Beginning "The Plot" Project: Documenting the Irish War of Independence 1:49:23 - Photographic Techniques for Capturing Historical Sites in "The Plot" 1:52:02 - The Impact of Historical Testimonies in "The Plot" 2:03:11 - Final Advice for Emerging Artists: Enjoy the Process and Find Your Purpose SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #MartinCregg #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #IrishArt #Midlands #AFadingLandscape #ThePlot #Heritage #DocumentaryPhotography #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #41: Coexist? - David Chancellor’s Vision of Wildlife and Humanity
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #41 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this powerful episode, we sit down with the acclaimed documentary photographer David Chancellor. His globally recognized work delves into the complex relationship between humans and nature, with a focus on conservation, wildlife, and the ethical implications of human intervention. About Our Guest: David Chancellor David Chancellor is a multi-award-winning photographer known for his visually arresting and thought-provoking documentary work. His photography spans continents, from the mountains of Scotland to the plains of Africa, where he explores the tensions between human activity and the natural world. Chancellor has received prestigious awards including the World Press Photo Award and Veolia Environnement Wildlife Photographer of the Year for his series on elephants and hunting. His projects like "Hunters", "Elephant Story"* and "A Gamekeeper's Life" have been published in National Geographic, The New York Times, and exhibited globally. In this episode, we dive into: * The intricate narratives behind "Elephant Story"—a project examining the commodification of elephants to sustain ecosystems in Zimbabwe. * The controversial and impactful "Hunters", which explores the world of trophy hunting, ethics, and conservation. * The deeply personal "A Gamekeeper’s Life", a year-long immersive project documenting the life of a Scottish gamekeeper and the balance between tradition and modern environmental challenges. Tune in to: * Explore David’s approach to long-term projects and the ethics of documentary photography. * Understand how his work provokes critical thinking around human-wildlife coexistence. * Gain insight into his personal journey as an artist committed to opening dialogue around conservation. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more inspiring conversations with photographers and artists. * Like and share this episode to spread awareness of the intersection between photography and environmental activism. * Follow us on social media for exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Website: www.davidchancellor.com David Chancellor’s Instagram: @chancellordavid OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 5:52 - Photography as a tool for change 14:07 - Early photography career and capturing local events 20:41 - The moment David knew photography was his life 53:05 - The making of "Elephant Story" and confronting the ethics of conservation 1:02:42 - Managing ecosystems and the commodification of wildlife 1:18:19 - Distilling complex stories into a single frame 1:34:25 - The emotional toll of documenting wildlife and conservation 1:39:29 - Hunters grappling with their internal conflicts 1:43:25 - Building trust and long-term connections with subjects 1:48:20 - The Responsibility of Documentary Photography 2:01:06 - Wrapping up and final thoughts on a lifetime in documentary photography SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support us on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #DavidChancellor #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #ElephantStory #Hunters #GamekeepersLife #VisualStorytelling #Conservation #Wildlife #EthicsInPhotography #Urbanautica #nationalgeographic
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Ep. #40: Soul in the Machine - Nausicaa Guila Bianchi on Photography’s Deeper Purpose
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #40 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we dive deep into the creative world of Nausicaa Guila Bianchi, a documentary fine-art photographer and educator whose work transcends traditional boundaries of photography. Nausicaa’s projects span across themes of religion, death, and identity, with her artistic journey taking her from Italy to New York and beyond. About Our Guest: Nausicaa Guila Bianchi Nausicaa Guila Bianchi’s work is rooted in exploring the invisible aspects of reality, blending portraiture, visual narrative, and bookmaking. Her long-format documentary projects, such as "Ordination" and "Death is a Photograph", challenge stereotypes and investigate topics often seen as taboo. Having exhibited her work internationally and contributed to renowned publications like "The Guardian", "National Geographic", and "TIME", Nausicaa's unique approach reveals the deep connections between faith, identity, and transformation. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Nausicaa’s journey from Italy to New York and her transition from computer science to photography. * Learn how Nausicaa uses photography as a tool for self-discovery and challenging societal norms. * Delve into her long-term documentary projects, including "Ordination", "A Lesser Geography of the Holy Land", and "Death is a Photograph". * Discover how Nausicaa collaborates with her subjects to explore the intersections of life, death, and spirituality. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more conversations with leading artists and photographers. * Like and share this episode to inspire others with Nausicaa’s groundbreaking work. * Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. EPISODE LINKS: Nausicaa’s Website: www.giuliabianchi.com Nausicaa’s Instagram: @nausicaagiuliabianchi OUTLINE: 0:00 - Most Replayed 0:59 - Nausicaa’s Artistic Motivation and Philosophy 6:49 - Transition from Computer Science to Photography 9:36 - The Camera as a Mirror: Exploring Self and Reality 17:55 - Facing Fear and Confronting Stereotypes Through Photography 23:55 - Personal Struggles in Projects: Religion, Womanhood, Mortality 29:02 - "Ordination": Documenting Women Catholic Priests 40:08 - Collaborative Portraiture and Spirituality 57:25 - Evolving Artistic Process: Letting Projects Take Shape 1:04:15 - "A Lesser Geography of the Holy Land": Searching for God 1:18:26 - Reflecting on Career Growth and Artistic Evolution 1:24:00 - "Death is a Photograph": Exploring Mourning and Mortality 1:35:00 - Collaborating with Subjects on Death Experiences 1:50:00 - Death as Transformation and the Power of Analog Photography 2:00:00 - Teaching and Passing on Knowledge in Death Education 2:05:00 - Final Thoughts on Art, Legacy, and Spiritual Exploration SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #NausicaaGuilaBianchi #TheUrbanautPodcast #DocumentaryPhotography #ReligiousDisobedience #PhotographyAndFaith #DeathStudies #VisualStorytelling #Urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep.#39: Rooted in Art - Vanessa Cowling’s South African Canvas
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #39 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this insightful episode, we explore the artistic journey of Vanessa Cowling, a South African artist-photographer whose work interweaves sustainability with photographic practice. Her dedication to the environment and unique approach to cameraless photography highlights her groundbreaking projects such as "Fixing Shadows" and her evocative series, "Shoreline." About Our Guest: Vanessa CowlingVanessa is a lecturer and practicing photographic artist based in Cape Town, South Africa. Her career spans multiple continents, having spent years in New York, London, and Edinburgh before returning to her roots. She holds a BA Honours from the Michaelis School of Fine Art (UCT), recently completed her MFA with distinction, and has been recognized with the 2023 Tierney Fellowship and the international “Blurring the Lines” competition. Her work, which also features in the 2024 Venice Biennial, interrogates the role of photography in a changing landscape, marrying her artistic endeavors with her commitment to environmental sustainability. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover Vanessa’s transformative approach to photography, from traditional practices to innovative, sustainable methods. * Delve into the depths of "Fixing Shadows" and "Shoreline," understanding the impact of personal loss and environmental awareness on her work. * Learn about the sustainable photographic garden Vanessa cultivates, emphasizing reciprocal relationships with nature. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes exploring innovative art and photography. * Like and share this episode to support sustainable practices in the arts. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content from visionary artists like Vanessa. EPISODE LINKS: Vanessa's Contact: www.vanessacowling.com Vanessa’s Instagram: @vanessacowling OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 2:27 - Switching from Science to Art 7:44 - Art Meets Science 10:16 - Exploring Human Connections 13:21 - Motivation for MFA 17:00 - Family and Art 19:25 - Artistic Influences 24:40 - MFA Experience 28:07 - Themes in Current Work 36:37 - "Shoreline" Project Insights 42:08 - Technology and Art 44:07 - Art as Reflective Practice 48:37 - Discussion on Life and Art 50:18 - Evolution into Non-Camera Work 1:04:06 - Photographic Composting 1:15:28 - Influence of Local Environment on Art 1:35:39 - Preparing for Exhibitions 1:58:29 - Art Show Reflections and Audience Engagement SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #VanessaCowling #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #SustainableArt #EnvironmentalArt #CameralessPhotography #VeniceBiennial #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #38: Stones,Stories, and Slovakia - Dominika Jackuliakova’s Journey Through Art and Identity
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #38 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with the gifted Slovak photo-based artist Dominika Jackuliakova. Her work delves into the intricate layers of identity, memory, and the ever-evolving relationship between humans and their environments. About Our Guest: Dominika JackuliakovaDominika Jackuliakova’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with the landscapes and cultural history of Slovakia. Her practice captures the delicate balance between preservation and change, particularly within communities that have been shaped by both geographical isolation and historical forces. From documenting the ongoing R2 motorway project in the Novohrad region to exploring personal and collective memory in "A History of Disappearing," Dominika’s work offers a profound commentary on the ways in which landscapes and human experiences are interconnected. Her projects, such as "Lom," examine the symbolism of stone as both a material and metaphor, adding layers of meaning to her narrative-driven photography. With exhibitions across Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and the United States, Dominika’s work continues to inspire and provoke thought. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover the inspiration and motivations behind Dominika's most compelling projects, including "R2," "A History of Disappearing," and "Lom." * Explore how Dominika uses photography to document and interpret the changing landscapes and cultural identity of Slovakia. * Gain insight into the artistic process and the challenges of capturing the invisible threads that connect people, places, and histories. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes exploring the intersections of art, photography, and cultural narratives. * Like and share this episode to support the appreciation of Slovak art and documentary photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content from The Urbanaut Podcast. EPISODE LINKS: Dominika's Website: jackuliakova.com Dominika’s Instagram: @dominikajackuliakova OUTLINE: OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 1:46 - Introduction to Dominika Jackuliakova 3:02 - Early Life, Artistic Background, and Influences 16:04 - Transition from Portraiture to Conceptual Work 19:03 - The Stone Project: Exploring Human Interaction with Material 30:46 - "A History of Disappearing": Personal and Cultural Narratives 39:05 - The Impact of Emigration on Slovak Identity 47:22 - The Role of Research in Dominika’s Artistic Process 1:02:19 - The "R2" Project: Documenting Regional Transformation 1:22:39 - Exploring Isolation and Connection in Slovak Villages 1:29:02 - Speed, Modernization, and Landscape Experience 1:58:48 - Reflections on American Influence and Road Culture SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #DominikaJackuliakova #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #SlovakArt #R2Project #LandscapePhotography #CulturalIdentity #ArtisticNarrative #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep.#37: Capturing New York - Barbara Mensch on Time, Change, and the Waterfront
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #37 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this episode, we dive into the world of acclaimed New York photographer Barbara Mensch, with a special appearance from artist Claire Gilliam. Barbara shares the stories behind her powerful documentation of New York City's waterfront, including her iconic South Street Seaport project and the ambitious Tin Building restoration. About Our Guests: Barbara Mensch (@menschphoto) is known for her evocative work capturing New York's urban history, while Claire Gilliam (@cagilly) brings her expertise in fine art and photography, collaborating with Barbara on the Tin Building project. Tune in to this episode to: * Hear the incredible stories behind Barbara's photographs of the South Street Seaport. * Learn about the technical and artistic challenges of the Tin Building project. * Explore how Barbara and Claire's collaboration brought new life to historic New York. Don't forget to: * Subscribe for more engaging episodes about art and photography. * Like and share this episode to support the preservation of New York's history. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content. EPISODE LINKS: Barbara's Website: www.menschphoto.com | Barbara's Instagram: @menschphoto Claire's Website: www.clairegilliam.com | Claire's Instagram: @cagilly OUTLINE: 00:00 - Barbara’s Dangerous Encounters 00:59 - Show Introduction 03:24 - Barbara's Background 07:16 - Artistic Influences 09:46 - Shift to Photography 12:57 - Early Projects and Challenges 18:11 - South Street Seaport Project 21:41 - Gaining Trust of Subjects 24:21 - Capturing New York's Transformation 30:48 - Tin Building Project Introduction 35:51 - Collaborating with Claire Gilliam 39:48 - Technical Challenges 44:48 - Brooklyn Bridge Project 50:51 - Impact of Urban Change 55:01 - Modern Art Challenges 59:48 - Tin Building Project Execution 01:05:44 - Storyboarding and Visual Planning 01:12:31 - Project Completion 01:20:01 - Brooklyn Bridge Legacy 01:25:31 - Final Thoughts on Photography 01:33:01 - Claire’s Reflections 01:38:56 - Closing Remarks 01:45:01 - Episode Conclusion SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #BarbaraMensch #ClaireGilliam #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #NewYorkHistory #SouthStreetSeaport #TinBuilding #BrooklynBridge #UrbanTransformation #ArtisticCollaboration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #36: Beyond Awareness - Photography, Pollution, and the Power of Imagery
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #36 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this thought-provoking episode, we are joined by the renowned British environmental photographer, Andy Hughes. Andy’s compelling body of work challenges the viewer to reconsider the ethical implications of environmental imagery, particularly in the context of plastic pollution. About Our Guest: Andy Hughes Andy Hughes is a visionary photographer whose work delves deep into the complexities of environmental issues, particularly focusing on the pervasive impact of plastic waste. His photography is not just a visual documentation but a critical exploration of the role that images play in raising awareness about environmental degradation. Through his lens, Andy captures the stark reality of pollution, urging us to think critically about the commodification of climate change imagery and its psychological effects on society. With decades of experience, Andy has become a prominent voice in sustainable photography, and his work continues to inspire and provoke important conversations around environmental responsibility. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Andy’s journey from a mining town in Yorkshire to becoming a leading figure in environmental photography. * Dive into the ethical debates surrounding the use of climate change imagery in raising awareness. * Gain insight into Andy’s creative process and the narratives that shape his powerful work on plastic pollution. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more deep dives into the world of art, photography, and environmental activism. * Like and share this episode to spread awareness about the importance of sustainable art practices. * Follow us on social media for the latest updates and exclusive content. EPISODE LINKS: Andy’s Website: www.andyhughes.net Andy’s Instagram: @andyhughesphotog **OUTLINE:** 0:00 - Coming Up 3:12 - Andy’s Artistic Journey: From a Mining Town in Yorkshire to Photography 7:15 - Early Photography Experiences: Documenting the Miners’ Strike 11:32 - The Influence of Industrial and Environmental Background on Andy’s Work 16:40 - Exploring Themes of Environmental Degradation and the Materiality of Photography 23:10 - Surfers Against Sewage: A Turning Point in Andy’s Career 34:50 - The Concept of Plastic Glomerate and Early Encounters with Plastic Pollution 39:20 - The Role of Photography in Environmental Activism: Impact vs. Awareness 45:00 - Critiquing the “Pornography” of Climate Change Imagery 1:02:00 - The Intersection of Art, Science, and Environmental Awareness 1:09:15 - The Impact of the Japanese Tsunami on Environmental Photography 1:14:30 - The Story Behind Andy’s Coca-Cola Bottle Cap Image 1:19:40 - The Concept of Hyper-Objects and the Immeasurable Scale of Environmental Issues 1:25:20 - Reflecting on the Global Connectivity of Pollution and Environmental Crises 1:30:10 - Andy’s Experiences in Alaska: The Midnight Sun and Environmental Photography 1:35:15 - The Future of Environmental Photography: Moving Beyond Awareness 1:41:00 - Final Thoughts: Balancing Artistic Integrity with Environmental Advocacy 1:45:30 - Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey of Environmental Photography SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #AndyHughes #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #EnvironmentalPhotography #PlasticPollution #SustainableArt #ClimateChange #VisualActivism #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #35: Exploring the Anthropocene: Heying’s Photographic Insights from Kansas to Paris
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #35 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this engaging episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented photographer Philip Heying. His profound work offers a deep exploration of the American Midwest and his intricate project, CODE. About Our Guest: Philip HeyingPhilip Heying is a seasoned photographer whose work is deeply influenced by the landscapes and cultural shifts of the American Midwest. His project, CODE, dissects the complexities of human perception and consciousness through photography, blending documentary style with profound philosophical insights. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, and having spent significant years in Paris and New York, Heying brings a rich and varied perspective to his art. His photographs have been featured in prestigious collections and exhibitions, reflecting a lifelong commitment to capturing the essence of his environments. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore the journey of Philip Heying’s photographic career, from his early days to his recent projects. * Delve into the narratives and artistic processes behind CODE and other works. * Understand the impact of geographical and cultural elements on Heying’s visual storytelling. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the rich tapestry of documentary photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Philip's Contact: www.philipheying.com Philip’s Instagram: @philip_heying SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #PhilipHeying #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #AmericanMidwest #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #34: Border Stories: Nicola Moscelli’s US-Mexico Exploration
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #34 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we sit down with the innovative Italian photographer and documentarist Nicola Moscelli. Nicola brings a unique perspective, blending his technical expertise as an electronic engineer with his profound passion for documentary photography. About Our Guest: Nicola Moscelli Nicola Moscelli's work explores deep cultural and historical narratives through his lens. An electronic engineer at the European Patent Office by profession, Nicola's true passion lies in his photography. His latest project, "Dead End," offers a compelling exploration of the US-Mexico border, intertwining historical and contemporary perspectives to reveal the complex socio-political landscape of the region. His work captures the stark realities and rich histories that define borderlands, making us reflect on these often-overlooked areas. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover Nicola’s transition from engineering to photography and how he merges these disciplines. * Dive into the intricate narratives and historical depths of his project "Dead End." * Understand the influence of geographical and cultural elements in shaping his documentary work. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the rich tapestry of documentary photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Nicola's Contact: www.nicolamoscelli.com Nicola’s Instagram: @nicolamoscelli OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 0:57 - Introduction and Nicola’s Background 3:01 - Engineering Background and its Influence on Photography 7:55 - Transition from Engineering to Photography 9:58 - Photographic Influences and Inspirations 15:12 - Passion for Street Photography 16:45 - Style Evolution and Storytelling in Photography 20:05 - Self-Taught Techniques and Learning through Experimentation 25:12 - Focus on Documentary Projects with Historical Context 31:23 - Overview of Previous Projects 42:24 - Insights into the "Dead End" Project 51:39 - Projects in Italy and Challenges of Small Towns 58:33 - Historical Context and Modern Implications in "Dead End" 1:18:57 - The Artistic Process Behind "Dead End" 1:39:25 - Advice for Aspiring Documentary Photographers 1:49:29 - How to Connect with Nicola and Wrap-Up SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #NicolaMoscelli #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #USMexicoBorder #DeadEnd #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #33: Jersey Roots, Japanese Forests: Exploring Heritage and Horizons with Alexander Mourant
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #33 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we sit down with the visionary artist-photographer Alexander Mourant. Known for his evocative exploration of photography, Mourant's work bridges the realms of autobiography, literature, and theoretical discourse, pushing the boundaries of the medium. About Our Guest: Alexander Mourant Alexander Mourant is a London-based artist, educator, and writer, currently a Lecturer in Photography at Kingston University. His practice encompasses photography, writing, performance, and sculpture, delving into themes of temporality, spatiality, and reflexivity. Mourant's notable projects include "Aomori", "I Could Not Tell Glass From Air", and "On Living Stones and Reaching", each offering a unique perspective on the photographic medium. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Mourant's journey and the evolution of his artistic practice. * Delve into the narratives and processes behind "Aomori", "I Could Not Tell Glass From Air", and "On Living Stones and Reaching". * Understand the impact of cultural and theoretical elements in shaping photographic stories. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the innovative spirit of contemporary photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Alexander's Contact: www.alexandermourant.com Alexander’s Instagram: @alexandermourant OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 1:17 - Introduction 1:42 - Early Background 7:36 - Taking the Path of Art 12:21 - Inspirations 17:13 - Developing his Practice 18:32 - Being a Part of the Revolve Collective 26:32 - Creative Impulse 32:58 - Exploring the "Aomori" Project 51:52 - The Ambiguity of "I Could Not Tell Glass From Air" 1:34:58 - A Deep Dive into "On Living Stones and Reaching" 2:03:13 - Preview of a New Book Called "The Night and The First Sculpture" 2:08:17 - Advice for Aspiring Artists SOCIAL : * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #AlexanderMourant #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #ContemporaryArt #Aomori #OnLivingStonesAndReaching #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #32: Lost and Found: Frank Marshal's Landscapes of the Forgotten
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #32 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we sit down with the extraordinary photographer Frank Marshal to discuss his projects "I See You" and "I See Nothing." About Our Guest: Frank MarshalFrank Marshal is known for his evocative photography that delves into the quiet, often overlooked aspects of American life. His work captures the essence of sorrow, resilience, and the nuanced beauty of mundane landscapes. With a profound understanding of light and composition, Frank's images tell compelling stories that resonate on a deeply emotional level. His series "I See Nothing" has been celebrated for its poignant exploration of desolation and memory, while "I See You" brings an empathetic lens to the everyday lives of his subjects. Frank continues to inspire and challenge viewers through his dedication to film photography, sharing his journey and insights on platforms like Instagram (@istillusefilm). Tune in to this episode to: * Discover the inspiration and creative process behind "I See Nothing" and "I See You". * Explore how Frank's background growing up in a military family and his extensive travels influence his work. * Gain insight into his views on film vs. digital photography and the importance of capturing authentic moments.Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that explore the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the profound narratives within Frank's photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Frank's Contact: www.frankmarshal.com Frank’s Instagram: @istillusefilm OUTLINE: 0:00 - Most Replayed 1:38 - Introduction 4:12 - Frank's Background and Early Influences 11:13 - That moment it came into focus 13:45 - Evolution of his work 17:10 - I meaningful quote 19:10 - Inspiration for the work 29:39 - "I See You" 59:42 - "I See nothing" 1:15:14 - "What does 'Nothing' mean to you?" 1:21:56 - Advice for Emerging Photographers SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #FrankMarshal #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #FilmPhotography #AmericanLandscape #ISeeNothing #ISeeYou #VisualStorytelling #ArtisticExpression #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #31: The Complexities of Appalachia - Challenging Photographic Truths with Stacy Kranitz
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #31 of The Urbanaut Podcast, in partnership with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we sit down with the insightful American documentary photographer Stacy Kranitz. Stacy's work explores the intricacies of photographic representation, delving into the lives and environments she captures through her lens. About Our Guest: Stacy Kranitz Stacy, a Guggenheim Fellow hailing from Kentucky and residing in the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Tennessee, interrogates the veracity of photographic truth. Her notable projects include "As it Was Give(n) to Me" and "From the Study on Post Pubescent Manhood," where she explores themes of cultural perception and the cathartic role of violence in Southern Ohio's dystopian settings. Her work is featured in major collections and has been presented internationally, embodying a documentary style that challenges and redefines conventional narratives. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Stacy's critical approach to documentary photography, challenging the truth and probing the depth of human experience. * Gain insights into her major projects that look at life in Appalachia and a unique group of young men in Ohio. * Discuss the impact of environmental and social dynamics on photographic storytelling. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve deep into the realms of art and documentary. * Like and share this episode to support diverse narratives in documentary photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Stacy's website: www.stacykranitz.com Stacy’s Instagram: @stacykranitz OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 1:47 - Introduction to Stacy 2:29 - Stacy's Background 9:34 - Thought on Photojournalism 12:10 - Shifting and adding Fine Art to her Practice 19:19 - The role Intimacy in her work 19:58 - Interesting rules for Photographer on Assignment 22:41 - Pushing the edges in her work 23:39 - “Objectivity” in photography 35:01 - Her process 20:54 - Influences 47:52 - Exploring "From the Study on Post Pubescent Manhood" 1:12:16 - Deep Dive into "As it Was Give(n) to Me" 1:36:08 - How does the work take form? 1:38:53 - Advice for photographers SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #StacyKranitz #TheUrbanautPodcast #DocumentaryPhotography #Appalachia #PhotographicTruth #Urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #30: The Grand Scheme: Decoding Landscapes with Chris Round
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #30 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we sit down with the talented landscape photographer Chris Round. His work offers a profound exploration of our interaction with the environment, focusing on key projects like "The Grand Scheme" and "Legend". About Our Guest: Chris Round Chris Round, based in Sydney, Australia, has a rich background in both the UK and Australia, transitioning from painting to photography. His work captures the dynamic interplay between human intervention and natural landscapes. Notable projects include "The Grand Scheme," documenting the Snowy Hydro Scheme, and "Legend," which juxtaposes cartographic symbols with real-world landscapes. Chris’s photography has been widely exhibited and celebrated, earning numerous accolades. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover Chris's journey from painting to landscape photography. * Explore the narratives and artistic processes behind "The Grand Scheme" and "Legend". * Learn about the environmental and cultural themes shaping his work. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes on art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the intersection of human activity and nature in Chris's work. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Chris's Website: roundtheplace.com Chris’s Instagram: @roundtheplace and @roundtheotherplace PODCAST INFO: Spotify: The Urbanaut Podcast on Spotify Twitter: @UrbanautPodcast YouTube Full episodes playlist: The Urbanaut Podcast - Full Episodes YouTube Clips playlist: The Urbanaut Podcast - Clips Podcast website: patrickleehubbard.com/theurbanautpodcast OUTLINE: 0:00 - Most Replayed 0:59 - Chris’s Background and Early Work 10:17 - Transition from Painting to Photography 14:16 - Finding a Sense of Belonging in Australia 15:32 - The Concept Behind "Legend" 23:02 - Exploring "The Grand Scheme" 26:23 - Human and Animal Interactions with Landscapes 33:58 - A Native’s Perspective on Belonging 40:45 - Chris’s Reflection on Identity and Home SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #ChrisRound #TheUrbanautPodcast #LandscapePhotography #EnvironmentalArt #TheGrandScheme #Legend #ArtisticJourney #FindingBelonging #urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #29: From Punk to Pastoral: Gary Green's Photographic Journey
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #29 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this engaging episode, we sit down with the renowned American photographer Gary Green. His profound work spans from capturing the vibrant New York music scene to his evocative upcoming projects on Waterville and Long Island. About Our Guest: Gary Green Gary Green is a Professor of Art at Colby College, where he has taught photography since 2007. With an MFA from the Milton Avery Graduate School of the Arts at Bard College, Gary’s work is featured in numerous prestigious collections, including The RISD Museum, the Portland Art Museum, and The Amon Carter Museum. His photobooks, such as "After Morandi" and "When Midnight Comes Around," have received significant acclaim. Tune in to this episode to: * Dive into Gary’s early career, where he documented New York City's downtown music scene of the late 70s and early 80s, capturing iconic figures like Lou Reed, Patti Smith, and Tom Waits. * Explore his upcoming book on Waterville, a series spanning 15 years that captures the evolving landscape of a small town, reflecting on its decaying glimpses and void spaces. * Discover his ongoing project "Long Island Pastoral," where Gary revisits his childhood memories and the suburban transformation of Long Island, blending past and present in evocative imagery. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the rich tapestry of American documentary photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Gary's Contact: garygreenphotographs.com Gary’s Instagram: @garygreenphotographs OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 2:09 - Introduction 3:04 - Gary’s Background and Finding Photography 17:26 - Influential Artist and People in Gary's Development 33:39 - A "Quiet" Image? 41:46 - The New York Music Scene 57:15 - Transition to Landscape Photography 1:12:35 - Upcoming Book on Waterville 1:39:52 - Long Island Pastoral Project 1:57:10 - Advice for Aspiring Photographers SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #GaryGreen #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #NewYorkMusicScene #Waterville #LongIslandPastoral #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #28: From London’s Music Scene to The Middle of Somewhere: The Journey of Sam Harris
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #28 of The Urbanaut Podcast! In this compelling episode, we sit down with the celebrated photographer Sam Harris, exploring his fascinating journey from the heart of London’s music scene to the serene landscapes of Australia. About Our Guest: Sam Harris Sam Harris is an intimate insider renowned for his emotionally rich and dynamic images that capture the everyday lives of his community, friends, family, and the talent he photographs. Starting in a shared house in South London, Sam turned his bedroom into a darkroom, launching a career that saw him working with artists like Jarvis Cocker, Victoria Beckham, and Blur. His photography adorned the pages of The Sunday Times Magazine, Esquire, and Dazed & Confused, among others. In 2002, disillusioned by the commercial photography industry, Sam embarked on a transformative journey with his family to India, leading to his acclaimed project "The Middle of Somewhere." This series documents his daughters' childhood in the Australian outback, earning international accolades and multiple photobook awards. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Sam’s early career in the music industry and his transition to documenting family life. * Hear the captivating story behind his decision to leave London and travel with his family. * Discover how his photography evolved during his nomadic years in India and Australia. * Learn about his latest project, "Neighbors," reflecting his community-focused approach. OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 2:31 - Introduction 4:02 - Early Life and the Artistic Beginnings 12:40 - Early Inspirations to Photograph 17:59 - Jumping in Headfirst 23:11 - Eye for Design 25:43 - Photography and Music 36:00 - Early work in the Music Industry 43:02 - Evolving his style in the Music Industry 56:26 - Two experiences that changed everything 1:14:13 - In The Middle of Somewhere 1:34:14 - A new work loosely called "Neighbors" 1:49:53 - The choices we make 1:57:42 - Advice for Photographers Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes exploring the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the incredible work of photographers like Sam Harris. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Sam’s Contact: samharrisphoto.com.au Sam’s Instagram: @SamHarrisPhoto SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #SamHarris #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #FamilyPhotography #TheMiddleOfSomewhere #ArtisticJourney #VisualNarrative #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #27: Istanbul Through the Lyrical Lens of Ci Demi
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #27 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented Turkish photographer Ci Demi. His profound work offers a deep exploration of Istanbul through documentary and street photography, capturing the essence of his city and personal experiences. About Our Guest: Ci Demi Ci Demi was born in 1986 in Istanbul, where he continues to live and work. After studying Italian Literature at Istanbul University, he began his photography career at the age of 28. His work has been featured in prominent publications such as the British Journal of Photography, WePresent, and Fisheye Magazine, and has been exhibited in numerous prestigious venues including the Pera Museum in Istanbul and Les Rencontres d’Arles in Paris. Notable Works: - Unutursan Darılmam (No Offence If You Forget): This ongoing photobook project (2018-2023) explores Ci Demi's journey through depression and his reconnection with Istanbul. It captures the quiet yet vibrant corners of the city, with a hint of loneliness. - Will the World End in the Daytime (Kıyamet Gündüz Mü Gelecek): A fictional photo-story (2017-2019) about an impending devastating earthquake in Istanbul, showcasing eerie urban scenes. - Şehir Fikri (Notion of a City): Published in December 2022, this photobook is a haunting portrayal of Istanbul devoid of people, animals, and language, inspired by the visual style of 1970s Italian giallos. Tune in to this episode to: * Traverse the journey of Ci Demi's photographic career, from its inception to his latest works. * Delve into the narratives and artistic processes behind his major projects. * Understand the impact of cultural and geographical elements in shaping photographic stories. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the rich tapestry of documentary photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: * Ci Demi's Contact: cidemi.art * Ci Demi’s Instagram: @ci_demi OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 0:59 - Introduction to Ci 6:20 - The influence of Italian Giallos 10:01 - Surrounded by Books 14:48 - Photojournalism and Unanswered Questions 20:19 - Developing his Visual Language 27:48 - I am complete Escapist 33:32 - Depression and the making of Unutursan Darılmam (No Offence If You Forget) 41:20 - A look into the series Unutursan Darılmam (No Offence If You Forget) 1:08:16 - Will the World End in the Daytime 1:39:26 - Şehir Fikri (Notion of a City) 1:49:34 - Advice for finding your voice as an artist SOCIAL: * Twitter: [/UrbanautPodcast](@tPodcast) * Facebook: [/TheUrbanautPodcast](@nautPodcast) * Instagram: [/TheUrbanautPodcast](@nautPodcast) * Support on Patreon: [/TheUrbanautPodcast](@nautPodcast) #CiDemi #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #DocumentaryPhotography #TurkishArt #UnutursanDarılmam #WilltheWorldEndintheDaytime #ŞehirFikri #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #26: Photographing Icons - Jim Herrington's Adventures in Music and Mountaineering
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #26 of The Urbanaut Podcast! In this captivating episode, we sit down with the legendary photographer Jim Herrington. From iconic album covers to stunning portraits of mountaineering legends, Jim's work has made a significant mark in the world of photography. About Our Guest: Jim Herrington Jim Herrington's portraits of musicians and celebrities have been featured in Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, Esquire, GQ, Outside, and The New York Times for over three decades. His work includes album covers for renowned artists and a notable portrait series of early-to-mid 20th Century mountain climbing legends, culminating in his acclaimed book, *The Climbers*. This collection received the Grand Prize at the 2017 Banff Film & Book Festival and showcases the humanity, obsession, intellect, and frailty of these adventurers. At the age of 13, Jim captured Benny Goodman with his new 35mm camera. Fast forward to the present, he continues to make significant contributions to the field, including shooting the album cover for The Black Keys. His work spans across documenting the essence of American music and capturing the spirit of legendary climbers with his profound photographic narratives. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Jim's journey from photographing Benny Goodman to working with The Black Keys. * Delve into the making of "The Climbers" and the stories behind these iconic portraits. * Understand the impact of cultural and geographical elements in shaping Jim's photographic style. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes featuring incredible artists and photographers. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the art of photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Jim's Website: www.jimherrington.com Jim’s Instagram: @jimherrington OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 1:45 - Introduction 2:24 - Jim’s Early Influences and Development 6:10 - When Photography Became Central 11:51 - An influential moment photography music 21:44 - Self assignments 29:54 - What makes a good portrait? 40:18 - Portraits of Has Beens, Never Was', and Big Stars of the music business 46:42 - Portrait of Dolly Parton 1:02:00 - The Benny Goodman moment 1:02:31 - Portrait of Morgan Freeman 1:05:29 - A big moment with Tom Petty 1:14:11 - The inspiration for the book "The Climbers" 1:28:09 - Inside the book 1:43:34 - A portrait of the famous climber, Reinhold Messner 1:45:56 - Moments and portraits with the climber Fred Beckey 1:58:19 - Advice for Aspiring Photographers SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #JimHerrington #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #TheClimbers #MusicPhotography #VanityFair #RollingStone #DocumentaryPhotography #ArtisticJourney #Podcast #Urbanautica
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Ep. #25 From the Rust Belt to Europe: Exploring Post-Industrial Landscapes with Andrew Borowiec
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #25 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this captivating episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with the distinguished photographer Andrew Borowiec. Join us as we explore his profound photographic journey and discuss his impactful projects "Along the Ohio," "The Lincoln Highway," and "Post-Industrial France." About Our Guest: Andrew Borowiec Andrew Borowiec has been capturing America's shifting industrial and post-industrial landscapes for over thirty years. His work provides a deep look into the cultural and economic changes across various regions. Borowiec’s notable projects include "Along the Ohio," which documents the evolving Rust Belt towns along the Ohio River, "The Lincoln Highway," a study of one of America’s first major highways, and "Post-Industrial France," a comparative look at European towns facing similar transformations. His evocative photographs have been exhibited worldwide and are part of numerous prestigious collections. With a rich academic and professional background, Borowiec has significantly contributed to the field of photography, both as a creator and educator. Tune in to this episode to: * Journey through Andrew Borowiec’s photographic career, from his early works to his latest projects. * Discover the narratives and artistic processes behind "Along the Ohio," "The Lincoln Highway," and "Post-Industrial France." * Gain insights into how cultural and geographical elements shape Borowiec's powerful photographic stories. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that delve into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to support the exploration of post-industrial landscapes through photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Andrew's Contact: @ Andrew’s Instagram: @borowiecandrew OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 2:36 - His early interest which led him to photography 18:03 - Carving his own path in photography14:16 - When he chose to be a photographer 15:32 - A little bit of Intuition and Research 22:10 - Atget and Andrew's Inspiration 27:28 - After Yale37:03 - His Photographic Interest in Post-Industrial Landscapes 50:49 - Exploring "Along the Ohio"1:06:16 - The journey of "The Lincoln Highway" 1:30:22 - Insights into "Post-Industrial France"1:47:31 - A comparison between 2 images almost 40 years apart 1:58:40 - Advice for finding your voice as an artist SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #AndrewBorowiec #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #PostIndustrial #RustBelt #AlongTheOhio #TheLincolnHighway #PostIndustrialFrance #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #24: Capturing Time: The Unique Vision of Terry Ratzlaff
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #24 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this engaging episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented artist-photographer Terry A. Ratzlaff. Terry discusses his fascinating journey into photography and provides an in-depth look at his major projects, including "But The Eyes Are Blind One Must Look With The Heart," "The Watcher," and "Take Your Time." About Our Guest: Terry A. Ratzlaff Terry A. Ratzlaff is an artist and educator living in Lincoln, Nebraska. His work is driven by an obsession with trains and time, exploring where these phenomena collide. Specializing in photography and book art, Terry emphasizes sequences over singular images to deconstruct modern perceptions of time, history, and technological progress. He runs a small imprint, The Basement Window, creating limited edition artist books and boxes. Terry holds an MFA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Digital Media at Nebraska Wesleyan University. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, Vanity Fair, Bloomberg Businessweek, and more. Tune in to this episode to: * Traverse the journey of Terry's photographic career, from its inception to his latest works. * Delve into the narratives and artistic processes behind his projects. * Understand the impact of trains and time on his artistic vision. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes exploring the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the rich tapestry of artistic exploration. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: * Terry's Contact: www.terryratzlaff.com * Terry’s Instagram: @terryratzaff OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 2:30 - Terry’s background and early works 5:17 - Educational influences and choosing photography 11:04 - Influential People 14:46 - Looking outside of Photography for Inspiration 17:58 - Teaching 19:08 - Exploring the philosophy of "Receptiveness" 24:42 - Terry's artistic workflow 37:48 - "But The Eyes Are Blind One Must Look With The Heart" 57:24 - "The Watcher" 1:14:54 - "Take Your Time" 1:39:49 - "Marches" 1:58:42 - Advice for Finding Your Voice as an Artist SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #TerryRatzlaff #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #ArtAndTime #TrainObsessions #ModernityAndArt #CreativeProcess #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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Ep. #23: On Adaptive Urbanism and Control: Isidro Ramirez on Questioning Cities and Spaces
🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #23 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this compelling episode, we have the pleasure of engaging with Isidro Ramirez, an esteemed urban and architectural photographer based in Singapore. His rich portfolio captures the complex essence of urban spaces through projects that span continents and challenge conventional photographic perspectives. About Our Guest: Isidro Ramirez Originally from the UK and now a lecturer in the BA(Hons) Design Communication program at LASALLE College of the Arts, Singapore, Ramirez’s works have been displayed in key cities around the world. His photography delves into the urban fabric, revealing narratives woven through architectural forms and human interactions. Tune in to this episode to: * Explore Isidro Ramirez's projects, including his latest works that intertwine AI with traditional photography to reimagine urban landscapes. * From Jakarta to Singapore, discover how Ramirez uses the view camera to explore cities and capture their citizens' peculiar ways to adapt and inhabit them. * Understand Isidro Ramirez’s philosophical approach to the intersections of technology, memory, and urban space in photography. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that probe into the fascinating world of contemporary photography. * Like and share this episode to support a deeper appreciation of urban and architectural photography. * Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Isidro Ramirez's Contact: @droramirez.com Isidro’s Instagram: @isidro_ramirez_photography OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up 1:10 - Introduction to Isidro Ramirez 10:25 - Finding his way into a practice16:28 - Commercial work to Teaching 25:23 - What kind subject draws his eye40:06 - Jakarta - Modest Interventions and Minor Improvisations1:01:01 - Insula1:21:45 - Spare Time: Capturing Extended Moments 1:32:06 - Jakarta - Intervened and Improvised 2023 1:49:27 - Thoughts on AI and Photography 1:57:55 - Advice for Aspiring Photographers SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #IsidroRamirez #UrbanautPodcast #Photography #UrbanPhotography #ArchitecturalPhotography #AIinArt #Singapore #Jakarta #Indonesia #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to The Urbanaut Podcast channel, where we delve deep into our contemporary image-driven culture. For an immersive experience watch the video version on YouTube or Spotify. Guided by Patrick Lee Hubbard and enriched with insights from Steve Bisson of Urbanautica Institute, we explore the tales and truths that modern visuals weave around us. Every frame and pixel holds a story, and we're here to uncover it. If you're as captivated by this journey as we are, support our quest and get exclusive content by joining our Patreon community. Subscribe, dive in, and become an Urbanaut with us.
HOSTED BY
Patrick Lee Hubbard
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