The Mortal Machine Gallery Podcast

During the chaos, beauty, and psychic overload of Jazz Fest weekend, artist Ravi Zupa sits down with Chris and Gabe at Mortal Machine Gallery to talk about art that feels handmade, dangerous, spiritual, and alive.They get into Ravi’s instantly recognizable style — equal parts punk flyer, religious iconography, tattoo flash, revolutionary propaganda, and folk art — and why polished “content” culture has made real human-made art feel more important than ever. The conversation spirals through culinary hot takes, New Orleans during Jazz Fest, and what it means to make work that actually survives algorithm culture.A loud, sweaty, funny, existential Jazz Fest weekend conversation from inside the madness of New Orleans.Buy Ravi's work here.

This week we sit down with Anya Sapozhnikova, co-founder of Devotion Studios—a reformer Pilates and aerial fitness studio tucked right into the madness of the French Quarter.Anya brings a wild mix of backgrounds: performance roots at House of Yes, a deep understanding of movement as both art and discipline, and now the very real challenge of running a business in one of the most chaotic neighborhoods in America.We get into what it actually takes to build something intentional in a place built on distraction, how performance translates into entrepreneurship, and why Pilates might secretly be one of the most powerful tools for mental and physical transformation.Also: snakes in the studio, aerial acrobatics, and why “working out” might be the least interesting way to describe what’s happening at Devotion.ABOUT Mortal Machine:Mortal Machine is a contemporary art gallery based in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans, operating from two adjacent spaces at 940 & 938 Royal Street.Founded and curated by artist Gabriel Shaffer, Mortal Machine presents dynamic exhibitions and projects featuring artists working at the intersection of Contemporary Folk, Pop Surrealism, Lowbrow, Outsider, New Contemporary, Dark Art, Erotica, and Street Art.ABOUT the Mortal Machine Podcast:Equal parts thoughtful and irreverent, the Mortal Machine Podcast favors real talk over industry polish - diving into process, survival, success, failure, and the strange paths creative lives tend to follow. Hosted by gallery founder and curator Gabriel Shaffer alongside New Orleans comedian Chris Trew.

Is pro wrestling just entertainment—or is it one of the most misunderstood art forms in the world? This episode dives into the storytelling, character work, and spectacle that make wrestling feel a lot closer to theater than sport.We break down whether WWE deserves a place in the art world, then shift gears into WrestleMania predictions—what should happen versus what will happen (because those are rarely the same). Expect strong opinions, questionable logic, and a deep respect for the chaos.

What’s actually happening in the art world right now? We break down the biggest stories—from major auctions and market shifts to museum controversies, artist moves, and the trends people aren’t talking about enough.No fluff, no gatekeeping—just a fast, opinionated rundown of what matters, what’s overhyped, and what it all means if you care about art (or want to understand where it’s headed next).Presented by Mortal Machine Gallery in New Orleans.

We sit down with dark surrealist painter Michelle Melcher to talk about why graveyards might be some of the most overlooked art galleries in the world—and how death, folklore, and history shape her work.From memento mori to ghost stories, Michelle breaks down the inspirations behind her latest show at Mortal Machine Gallery and how she balances classical oil painting techniques with eerie, modern themes. We get into the beauty of decay, the storytelling power of cemeteries, and why confronting death might actually make your art—and your life—better.If you’ve ever walked through a graveyard and felt something… this one’s for you.Buy Michelle's art from Mortal Machine

On this episode of the Mortal Machine Podcast, Chris Trew and Gabriel Schaefer dive into the bizarre world of art auctions on cruise ships—where vacationers buy expensive paintings somewhere between the buffet and the blackjack table.We break down how these floating art markets work, why people buy art at sea, and whether any of it is actually good. Along the way, Gabe pitches one of his most ridiculous ideas yet: an intentionally bad art gallery dedicated entirely to terrible artwork.From cruise ship sales tactics to the strange psychology of art collectors, this episode explores what happens when commerce, taste, and absurdity collide.

In this episode of the Mortal Machine Podcast, I sit down with Cody Barber — a metal artist who’s been living and creating in Marfa since 2013 to talk about what 13 years in the desert really looks like.We get into:Moving to Marfa with a truck full of handmade chairsGetting sober after earning the nickname “Blackout Barber” The loneliness (and safety) of small-town creative lifeWhy quitting his bestselling horseshoes almost wrecked him financially The tension between making “real art” and paying the billsBuilding a marketable product without selling your soulCody’s powder-coated horseshoes started as a functional experiment and became the thing that gave him creative freedom. When he stopped making them, the money dried up. That lesson hits hard: if you want to make art full-time, you need something that sustains you.We also talk about what it’s like to move somewhere like Marfa in your 20s. His advice? Have guts. But proceed with caution.If you're an artist trying to figure out how to survive without compromising yourself — this one’s for you.🔗 Cody’s work: codybarber.work 📍 Mortal Machine Gallery — New OrleansSubscribe for more conversations with artists, builders, and creative lifers figuring it out in real time.

Recorded at Create Space in Alpine, Texas, Chris Trew sits down with muralist and sign painter Monte Welt — a fellow Louisiana native who traded Metairie for the wide-open desert of West Texas.Monte shares what it’s really like to move to Alpine sight unseen, build an art career from scratch, and navigate the cultural differences between Alpine and nearby Marfa. They talk Donald Judd’s minimalist influence, graffiti vs. gallery culture, “West Texas time,” and why Alpine might just be the hidden gem artists overlook.You’ll also hear:The real difference between Alpine and MarfaHow Monte went from door-knocking for walls to painting 20+ buildings across the Tri-County areaThe grind of making a living as a full-time artist in a small townWhy “trust your artist” isn’t just a sloganThe exposure vs. payment conversation (and the alleyway mural offer that’ll make you laugh)If you’re an artist thinking about relocating, chasing a creative life, or wondering how murals actually happen from sketch to wall — this episode pulls back the curtain.Like, subscribe, and share if you believe in independent art and independent podcasts.Buy Monty's art here.

Recorded inside her Marfa studio, this episode sits down with Alyse of Opal Rugs to talk about what it really means to live and work as an artist in one of the most mythologized art towns in America.Visit Opal Rugs: https://www.opalrugs.com/Recorded on location in Marfa, Texas.

In this episode of Mortal Machine Podcast, we step into the creative spirit behind Mortal Machine Experiences — intimate, invitation-based moments rooted in the same energy as the gallery itself. Mortal Machine Experiences is a collection of intimate, invitation-based moments hosted in and around our French Quarter spaces. Rooted in the same spirit as the gallery, these experiences are designed for artists, collectors, and couples seeking something unique, personal, and fleeting - moments shaped by light, architecture, and the quiet pulse of New Orleans below.

Recorded at Harry's Corner in the French Quarter, this no-guest episode finds Gabriel Shaffer and Chris Trew talking shop about growth, risk, and what it actually takes to expand a creative business in New Orleans. The conversation centers on Gabe opening a brand-new Mortal Machine location literally right next door at 938 Royal—why now, what changed, and what no one tells you about scaling art spaces in the Quarter. Expect candid behind-the-scenes talk about real estate, community, burnout, momentum, and betting on yourself—plus the usual bar-level honesty.

Artist Arik Roper joins the Mortal Machine Podcast to talk about New Orleans as a true art city, his experiences creating iconic cover art for legendary bands like Sleep, and what actually makes a great art exhibition.We dig into how music and visual art intersect, what it’s like working with bands whose imagery matters as much as their sound, and how artists can think differently about showing work—beyond just hanging pieces on a wall.If you’re an artist, musician, curator, or just someone who loves the New Orleans creative scene, this episode is for you.🎨 Topics include:• New Orleans’ role in the contemporary art world• Creating album art for heavy, iconic bands• Translating music into visual language• What separates a good exhibition from a great one• Building an artistic voice that lasts📍Check out Mortal Machine Gallery in the French Quarter at 940 and 938 Royal Street.See Arik Roper's work at Mortal Machine here.👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 for more conversations with artists, comedians, and creative thinkers. 

Artist Dan Witz joins the podcast to talk about exhibiting at SCOPE Art Show during Miami Art Week—covering large-scale installations, navigating the fair circuit, and what it takes to stand out in one of the art world’s loudest weeks.Buy Dan's work from Mortal Machine.

Iconic artist Shepard Fairey (Obey, Obama Hope poster) joins the podcast live at SCOPE Art Show during Miami Art Week to discuss the intersection of art and activism, exhibiting in a high-noise fair environment, and how message-driven work survives—and thrives—on a global stage.Buy Shepard's art at Mortal Machine.

Artist Mab Graves joins the podcast live at SCOPE Art Show during Miami Art Week to talk about her dark-whimsical universe, building a recognizable visual language, and carving out space for deeply personal work amid the chaos of the art-fair world.Buy Mab's work at Mortal Machine.

Amy Sol and Casey Weldon join Two Drink Minimum for a deep dive into their surreal, pop-infused art worlds and the evolution of contemporary lowbrow culture.We get into their creative processes, how color and emotion shape their work, balancing commercial success with personal vision, and what it means to build a lasting career in the modern art scene. From dreamy characters to neon-soaked dreamscapes, this episode explores the stories and philosophies behind two of the most distinctive painters working today.If you’re into pop surrealism, new contemporary art, or the behind-the-scenes reality of making a life as a working artist — this one’s for you.Amy Sol on Mortal MachineCasey Weldon on Mortal Machine

In this episode of Two Drink Minimum Gabe and Chris pre-game their upcoming trip to Scope Miami. 

Photographer and street documentarian Beegats joins the Mortal Machine Podcast for a deep dive into art, culture, and life behind the lens.We talk about his journey from street environments into gallery spaces, how graffiti and urban culture shaped his visual perspective, and what drives him to capture moments most people overlook. The conversation explores the crossover between photography, street art, and storytelling — and how documenting real life can become fine art.We also get into the realities of being an artist today — building recognition, exhibiting work, and staying authentic while moving through different creative worlds.If you’re into photography, graffiti history, or contemporary street culture, this one’s for you.Explore Beegats at Mortal Machine.

In this episode, Chris and Gabe dive deep into their love of Pro Wrestling while having fancy cocktails at Fives located in New Orleans French Quarter.

Chris and Gabe enjoy a beautiful day in Jackson square to recap Hell Yes Fest and to peel back the layers of the love of Pro Wrestling.

In this episode of Two Drink Minimum, Chris outlines the highs and lows of producing New Orleans "Hell Yes Fest" A unique comedy show for a unique city!

In this episode of Two Drink Minimum, Gabe and Chris take the show to the vibrant heart of New Orleans — Frenchmen Street — for an unforgettable conversation with legendary artist Jeremy Fish. Over drinks and laughs, they dive into Jeremy’s creative journey, his inspirations, and how street culture, storytelling, and art collide in his work. From bold murals to iconic designs, this episode is a toast to creativity, collaboration, and the spirit of the Big Easy. Grab a drink and join the conversation — this is one you don’t want to miss!

Gabe and Chris sit down with Sig Greenebaum to talk about Nola x Nola, a uniquely New Orleans annual Festival. Nola x Nola is a multi-venue, indoor festival that only a city like New Orleans could pull off!

Gabe and Chris take on Frenchman street with an impromptu Pod 

While Chris is on the road, Gabe sits down with California based artist Dustin Myers on the balcony of the Gallery.

Gabe and Chris sit down in the No Dice Lounge Green Room with the legendary Mini Kiss! The band opens up about life on the road, the wild energy of performing as a world-famous tribute act, the chaos of touring, women, and, of course, the unforgettable tales of the infamous Fat Tammy.From backstage antics to behind-the-scenes laughs, this episode brings the party straight to your screen. Pour yourself a drink and buckle up — this is one you won’t forget!

Get ready for a wild ride! On this episode of Two Drink Minimum, Gabe and Chris sit down with “Fat Tammy”, the infamous guitarist from the world-famous MINIKISS — the ultimate tribute band to the legendary KISS!They dive into life on the road, crazy fan stories, and what it’s like rocking stadiums in full KISS style. This one’s got laughs, drinks, and behind-the-scenes secrets you won’t hear anywhere else!

Gabe and Chris take Two Drink Minimum to Muriel’s Jackson Square, one of New Orleans’ most haunted restaurants, for an unforgettable night in the French Quarter. Over handcrafted cocktails in the world-famous Séance Room, they swap ghost stories, dive into Muriel’s chilling history, and explore the supernatural side of the Big Easy.Between laughs, eerie tales, and a few raised glasses, this episode blends comedy with New Orleans’ haunted charm — and might just leave you questioning what lurks beyond the veil.

This episode is all about the culture of hidden bars, speakeasy vibes, and the strange, hilarious characters you only meet when you spend enough nights wandering around New Orleans. Our guest is Uznea, owner and creative director of Tell Me Bar.Nestled in the heart of New Orleans, Tell Me is New Orleans’ premier wine bar—where refined tastes meet a sultry, speakeasy vibe. Sip on curated vintages while savoring artfully crafted sushi in an ambiance that's equal parts elegant and enigmatic, making every visit feel like a decadent secret.As always, the episode drifts into art, comedy, and the unpredictable energy that surrounds the Mortal Machine / Open Mic From Hell orbit of New Orleans creatives.If you love late-night bar conversations, weird city lore, and a couple of guys chasing the next great story over drinks, this episode is for you.

In Episode 4 of Two Drink Minimum, Chris Trew and Gabe Schaefer dive into the glamorous, chaotic, and uniquely New Orleans worlds of champagne culture, drag queens, and bounce music. Featuring the dazzling Drag Queen "Bubbles" and a high-energy bounce rapper "504 Icy Girl."Recorded on location in the French Quarter, the conversation bounces between nightlife stories, the personalities that make the city tick, and the energy of the local scene where art, music, and performance constantly collide. From champagne-fueled celebrations to the unmistakable rhythms of New Orleans bounce, this episode captures the kind of night you can only have in this city.As always, expect plenty of laughs, tangents, and behind-the-scenes stories from the art and comedy worlds orbiting Mortal Machine Gallery and the broader New Orleans creative scene.

Welcome to Episode 3 of Two Drink Minimum — the show where we crack drinks, talk art + comedy, and let the conversation go wherever it wants.This one’s recorded in New Orleans with Gabriel Schaefer (Mortal Machine Gallery) and Chris Trew (Open Mic From Hell / Hell Yes Creative) — and it gets beautifully unhinged in the best way.We’re joined by two guests who meet for the first time on mic:🎨 Rachael Bridge — featured in Mortal Machine’s current 3-person show “Mood Lighting” alongside Alex Garant and Ruby Roth. Rachel talks about her painting process (shooting her own references, directing models, building atmosphere with lighting), what makes a great opening night, and the weird realities of showing work in non-art venues.🎤 Catie Santos — New Orleans comedian + producer (and Open Mic From Hell regular) who’s approaching her one-year anniversary producing shows in the city. Katie breaks down what it’s like building comedy from scratch, producing “shows in places that shouldn’t have shows,” and the difference between producing for ego vs producing for the experience.And then… Catie drops an all-timer story: She almost became the lead of a cruise-based reality dating show with her online “Splenda Friend” — complete with a proposed on-camera engagement storyline, big money, and a 12-episode order that she ultimately walked away from.Also in the mix:Urban South beers and judging beer by the can like it’s gallery artReality TV debates (Rock of Love supremacy, Jersey Shore, Love Island, Big Brother)Comedy vs art: what gets thrown at you (beers vs paintings), and why it hits differentWhy galleries don’t accept submissions (and how curation really works)Social media’s impact on artists and galleries — and why “follower stats” can be a red flag in both art and comedyIf you’re into New Orleans culture, creative hustle, behind-the-scenes art world talk, or comedy producer brain, this episode is for you.Guests: Rachel Bridge — IG: @raechelbridge | rachelbridgeart.com Catie Santos — IG: @casuallycatieMortal Machine Gallery: mortalmachine.nola.com Visit in the French Quarter: 940 Royal Street

Step inside a late-night French Quarter hang where cocktails get crafted, reality gets bent, and every story sounds half-illegal.Chris and Gabe are joined by masters of mixology and sleight-of-hand to talk about what really goes into creating unforgettable nights in New Orleans — behind the bar and behind the curtain.From building the perfect drink… to building the perfect illusion… this episode dives into the overlap between hospitality, performance, psychology, and straight-up showmanship.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to control a room — whether with a shaker tin or a deck of cards — this one’s for you.Recorded on location in the French Quarter. Strong drinks. Stronger stories.

In Episode One, Gabe and Chris kick things off with a wild ride of laughs and unexpected truths as they sit down with two New Orleans artists. Emily Nestor is a true crime podcast host and professional adult entertainer. Alongside her is local New Orleans comedian Troy Duchane. The four discuss art, comedy, and New Orleans over a glass of moonshine in a mason jar. The conversation gets hilarious—and surprisingly deep—real quick.

Welcome to Two Drink Minimum — the podcast where art, comedy, and unfiltered conversation collide inside the world of Mortal Machine.In this kickoff episode, we crack open the origin stories behind the gallery, the culture surrounding it, and the wild overlap between tattoo art, stand-up comedy, and New Orleans nightlife.From behind-the-scenes gallery moments to road stories, creative philosophy, and the chaos that happens when artists and comedians share the same table — this episode sets the tone for everything to come.If you’re into tattoo culture, underground art, comedy podcasts, or French Quarter energy, you’re in the right place.Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring artists, comedians, and cultural troublemakers.