Windowsill Chats

Margo Tantau
  • 5.0 (2)
  • கலைகள்
  • வாரந்தோறும் புதுப்பிக்கப்படும்

Windowsill Chats is a podcast for artists and creatives who are curious about what it's like to live, work & walk a creative path. You'll find honest stories, refreshing tips, artistic business advice and real conversations with global artists & makers just like you. Host Margo Tantau, a 30+ year Creative Director, Product Designer & maker, is a cheerleader for your success. Come grab a cuppa & join her in her sunny windowsill.

  1. 5 நா. முன்

    Rhinestones, Reinvention & the Art of Embracing Your Multi-Passionate Mind with Kim Bloomberg of Studio Art Beat (Replay)

    In this replay episode, Margo is joined by multi-passionate creative Kim Bloomberg, the joyful force behind Studio Art Beat. A fine artist, educator, and self-proclaimed art supply nerd, Kim brings a refreshing perspective to the creative journey—one that's less about staying in your lane and more about following curiosity wherever it leads. With a background in both fine art and education, over two decades of teaching experience, and years running her own jewelry business, Kim shares how she ultimately found fulfillment by embracing her ADHD-fueled love for switching mediums and diving headfirst into new materials. After leaving behind the New York hustle for the artistic charm of Chicago's North Shore, Kim launched Studio Art Beat as an inclusive space to demystify art and make creativity accessible to all ages. She now leads workshops, partners with brands like Gelli Arts, and teaches online courses—including one that brings rhinestone bedazzling to the masses. Through her story, Kim reminds us that freedom, play, and experimentation are not distractions—they're the path. Margo and Kim discuss: Growing up in an art-loving family and the creative influence of her parents and grandfather. Letting go of a long-term jewelry business and the guilt that came with that decision. How embracing her neurodivergent brain led to business clarity and personal joy. Turning her natural desire to switch mediums into a strength rather than a struggle. Building an online art education platform that's welcoming, inclusive, and non-intimidating. Why sharing her process openly (rather than gatekeeping) has helped her business grow. Collaborating with brands while maintaining authenticity and community connection. The value of playful creativity for both kids and adults—and why it's never too late to start. How she's made rhinestones cool again with her Cricut-powered online course. The beauty in allowing your creative identity to evolve—and giving others permission to do the same. Connect with Kim: www.studioartbeat.com  www.instagram.com/studioartbeat   Connect with Margo: https://www.windowsillchats.com https://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1ம.நே. 7நிமி.

  2. ஏப். 22

    More Play, Less Perfection: Embracing Experimentation and Finding Your Creative Rhythm with Lisa Solomon

    Margo is joined by artist, author, and educator Lisa Solomon to discuss her newest book, Art, Craft, Color—a thoughtfully curated collection of essays, reflections, and creative projects designed to inspire a more playful, hands-on approach to making. Lisa's work explores the intersection of art, craft, and personal history, often blending unexpected materials and techniques to challenge traditional boundaries. Alongside her studio practice, she teaches at the college level and has authored several books on color and creativity. In this conversation, Lisa offers a behind-the-scenes look at her process while reflecting on experimentation, perfectionism, and the power of community. Margo and Lisa discuss: The origin story behind Art, Craft, Color and how the project came to life The collaborative process of curating artists, materials, and color palettes Blurring the lines between art and craft, and why that distinction matters less than we think Embracing experimentation and stepping outside your creative comfort zone Letting go of perfectionism and focusing on process over outcome The impact of social media on creativity—both the inspiration and the pressure Why working with your hands is more important than ever in today's world Building community and connection through shared creative practices Connect with Lisa: Website: www.lisasolomon.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/lisasolomon Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1ம.நே. 4நிமி.

  3. ஏப். 15

    Paint Brushes to Balance Sheets: Financial Literacy, Tax Knowledge and How to Break the Starving Artist Stereotype With Hannah Cole (Replay)

    In this replay episode, Margo is joined by tax expert Hannah Cole who specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she's helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements from Florida to Alaska, and on the Sunlight podcast. She is the founder of Sunlight Tax. As artists carve their paths through various industries, they encounter a myriad of challenges, yet financial literacy is rarely addressed, leading to feelings of failure and shame. Today's conversation with Hannah sheds light on this systemic failure and turns it into a journey of empowerment and self-compassion (something all creatives should have)! Margo and Hannah discuss: The responsibilities that come with being a small business owner in the US Navigating self-employment taxes and optimizing deductions Personal struggles that Hannah faced within her own creative career and financial literacy What propelled her towards accounting education How she acts as a translator between the creative and tax worlds Simple advice artists can implement today when it comes to money management Her Money Bootcamp program and podcast How to save more money And more! Connect with Hannah: www.instagram.com/sunlighttax www.sunlighttax.com www.sunlighttax.com/podcast Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill

    1ம.நே. 3நிமி.

  4. ஏப். 8

    Three Good Things: A Practice in Perspective, Hope, and Everyday Joy with Emily Gaines Demsky

    Margo sits down with artist, writer, and creator Emily Gaines Demsky for a conversation centered on creativity, perspective, and the quiet power of noticing what's good. Emily makes vibrant floral paintings (symbols of hope and possibility), and is the founder of Tell Me 3 Good Things, a Substack community practice centered on noticing, naming, and sharing simple moments of goodness each day. Through her work, she invites others to shift their perspective in meaningful, life-giving ways. Emily's approach blends art, writing, and daily ritual into a powerful reminder: even in difficult seasons, we have the ability to choose where we place our attention. From her father's lasting influence to the organic growth of her community, this conversation explores how small, intentional practices can create profound change. Margo and Emily discuss: How perspective is a daily choice—and how it shapes both creativity and resilience The origin and impact of the "Tell Me 3 Good Things" practice The role of grief, joy, and life transitions in shaping creative work How authenticity fosters deep, meaningful community The symbolism of flowers as hope, possibility, and light Toxic positivity versus building resilience How noticing and naming goodness can shift the way we experience our lives Connect with Emily: Website: www.emilygainesdemsky.com Tell Me 3 Good Things on Substack: emilygainesdemsky.substack.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/emilygainesdemsky Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1ம.நே. 11நிமி.

  5. ஏப். 1

    What's the Best That Could Happen? Madison Phipps on Building an Art Business in the Margins

    Margo is joined by artist and illustrator Madison Phipps, the creative force behind Madison Phipps Studio. Known for her feminine, timeless botanical artwork rooted in nostalgia and storytelling, Madison shares how she's built a growing art business while balancing motherhood and a full-time job. From painting in the quiet margins of her day to landing dream collaborations and launching collections, this conversation is a refreshing and honest look at what it really takes to pursue creativity in the "messy middle." Margo and Madison explore the mindset shifts, practical strategies, and courageous decisions that helped her turn a personal creative practice into a thriving business, without waiting until everything felt "ready." Margo and Madison discuss: Using the question "what's the best that could happen?" as a roadmap for growth and decision-making How sharing her journey on TikTok helped her grow a community and gain visibility Pitching yourself before you feel ready—and how cold outreach led to major opportunities The inspiration behind her nostalgic, botanical artwork rooted in childhood memories Launching and sustaining a snail mail print club as a recurring revenue stream Lessons from collaborations, including her botanical collection with Paloma & Co Balancing ambition, creativity, and family life without burning out Connect with Madison Madison Phipps Studio: https://www.madisonphippsstudio.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madison.phipps.studio/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madisonphippsstudio Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    52 நிமி.

  6. மார். 25

    Creative Current Events: The Future of Licensing & the Reinvention of Retail

    Margo is joined once again by Abby Campbell for a Creative Current Events catch-up episode, and this one is packed. After a short hiatus, the two dive right back into the ever-evolving world of art, design, and creative business—starting with Margo's firsthand experience exhibiting at the Birmingham Spring Fair's new Licensing Lab. She shares what stood out, from booth design trends to the shifting landscape of licensing and wholesale in a post-SurTex world, offering a behind-the-scenes look at where the industry is heading. From there, Margo and Abby broaden the conversation into a curated mix of resources, trends, and cultural observations shaping creative work right now. They explore everything from artist-friendly AI tools and art competitions to trend forecasting, retail evolution, and immersive brand experiences. Mentioned in this episode: https://www.entrythingy.com/blog/best-art-calls-2026 https://business.pinterest.com/pinterest-predicts/ https://www.fastcompany.com/91504420/claude-can-turn-your-handwriting-into-a-font https://www.powderartfoundation.org/ http://southernliving.com/michaels-fresh-flowers-11920325 https://www.retaildive.com/news/aritzia-acquires-fred-segal/812686/

    55 நிமி.

  7. மார். 18

    Draw Your World: Samantha Dion Baker on Sketchbook Diaries, Everyday Inspiration, and Letting Go of Perfection

    Margo is joined by artist, author, and teacher Sam Dion Baker for a conversation about creativity, sketchbook practice, and finding meaning in the everyday. Originally from Philadelphia and now based in Brooklyn, Sam spent over two decades as a graphic designer before returning to drawing in her forties—ultimately building a deeply personal and widely loved sketchbook diary practice. Through her books, teaching, and artwork, Sam encourages others to slow down, observe their lives, and express themselves in their own unique way. Margo and Sam discuss: How a lifelong exposure to art shaped her creative path (and why it didn't follow a straight line) The transition from graphic design to a personal, sketchbook-based art practice Why sketchbooks can act as a form of therapy, reflection, and emotional processing Finding beauty and inspiration in everyday moments, not just big adventures Letting go of perfection and embracing messiness as part of the creative process Simple exercises to loosen up creatively (like continuous line drawing and using your non-dominant hand) How to develop your own unique creative voice through observation and consistency Sam's books and upcoming projects, including her new coloring book Color Your World Connect with Sam: Website: www.sdionbaker.com Substack: www.samanthadionbaker.substack.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/sdionbakerdesign Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1ம.நே. 11நிமி.

  8. மார். 11

    Following a Good Idea: Salli Swindell on Illustration, Creative Community, and Finding Joy Beyond Client Work

    Margo is joined by illustrator, creative community builder, and industry champion Salli Swindell, who has spent nearly five decades in the illustration world. Salli began her career at American Greetings before co-founding several beloved platforms with her brother Nate Padavick—including They Draw, The Illustrator's Circle, and Illustrators For Hire—all dedicated to celebrating and promoting illustrators around the globe. Margo and Salli explore Salli's creative evolution, from decades of client-driven illustration work to embracing a more personal, self-directed creative practice. Margo and Salli discuss: The power of starting small and following curiosity instead of waiting for a master plan How Salli and her brother Nate built global platforms from the ground up Why partnerships with people who have different strengths can open unexpected doors Salli's shift from decades of client-driven illustration work to developing a personal creative practice The origin story of Snack + Sketch, a gathering that blends creativity, food, and meaningful connection Why community, creativity, and shared meals can be powerful pillars of wellness How simple gatherings around your kitchen table can spark inspiration and lasting creative friendships Connect with Salli: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sallistyle/ Website: https://freshfoodillustration.cargo.site Illustrators For Hire: https://illustratorsforhire.com The Illustrator's Circle: https://www.illustratorscircle.com They Draw: https://www.they-draw.com   Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

    1ம.நே. 14நிமி.
அனைத்தையும் காண்க (318)

ரேட்டிங்குகள் & கருத்துகள்

5
5இல்
2 மதிப்பீடுகள்

அறிமுகம்

Windowsill Chats is a podcast for artists and creatives who are curious about what it's like to live, work & walk a creative path. You'll find honest stories, refreshing tips, artistic business advice and real conversations with global artists & makers just like you. Host Margo Tantau, a 30+ year Creative Director, Product Designer & maker, is a cheerleader for your success. Come grab a cuppa & join her in her sunny windowsill.

தகவல்

  • படைப்பாளர்
    Margo Tantau
  • செயலில் உள்ள வருடங்கள்
    2020 - 2026
  • எபிசோடுகள்
    318
  • மதிப்பீடு
    கிளீன்
  • பதிப்புரிமை
    © 2023
  • இணையதளத்தைக் காட்டு
    Windowsill Chats

இவற்றையும் நீங்கள் விரும்பக்கூடும்