BALBOA PARK

Nicoz
BALBOA PARK

when we observe our creative process ART becomes our chance for growth & a spiritual practice... & a podcast theme :) nicozbalboa.substack.com

  1. FEB 12

    BALBOA PARK #34 - the Anxiety Attack That Changed My Creativity

    Hey everyone, I just released a new episode of Balboa Park, where, to ease anxiety, I dive into a Graphic Journal Practice while I have some reflections on creativity, self-knowledge, and the strange ways our brains work when we make art. This time, I talk about the tension between instinct and control, and how we sometimes we don’t have to trust what we think.. Creativity is like making a quilt—each piece feels disconnected at first, but when you step back, a pattern emerges. Michel Gondry once said he loves working with constraints because they force unexpected solutions. That really resonates with me: sometimes the most interesting parts of a project come from what initially felt like limitations or even mistakes. This is a video episode, where I draw grids and small images as I talk. I start the podcast by drawing because it helps ease my anxiety—graphic journaling has made everything feel more fluid, natural, and satisfying. There’s something deeply calming about seeing the images come together, little by little, like a quilt forming over time. I also touch on a moment from my own creative process where I fought against the messiness of a piece, only to realize later that the 'mistake' was actually the best part. This episode is a bit of a love letter to embracing the unknown in art and in life. If you're someone who struggles with overthinking your creative work or feeling like you have to have it all figured out before you start, this one's for you. You can watch it here or everywhere podcast are, even youtube! Also—I'd love to hear your thoughts! Have you ever had a moment where letting go actually led to something better? Hit reply and let me know. Thank you for opening this email or listening to the podcast, your presence is everything for me! If you want to support this podcast you can subscribe and share too! Take care and keep creating, Nicoz P.S. 🌈 NEW MERCH DROP! 🌈 “I dreamed myself real, and I’m proud of every version of me.” ✨ This new design comes straight from “Sleeping in a Binder”—my daily transition comics about gender, dysphoria, and becoming. If these comics have resonated with you, this merch is for you. 🖤 Comfort Colors Tees – I love this brand! their cotton is soft yet thick and with a vintage feel 🖤 Short and Long-Sleeve Tees – so you can chose according the temperature (I tried to keep the price difference at minimum) 🖤 Denim Tote Bags – Carry your truth everywhere IN DEMNIM, duh! 💥 Limited time, I don’t know if I’ll keep all models and colors – grab yours here now: www.nicozbalboastudio.com/store and since you read up here, here for you a code when you buy at least one tshirt (or you spend more than 50€): paste the code COZY10 at the checkout. code is available up to next week aka February 19 🚀 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nicozbalboa.substack.com

    27 min
  2. BALBOA PARK #33 - 5 Years of Strangeland: What I’ve Learned About Hustle, Rest, Creativity & Running a Tattoo Shop on My Own Terms

    JAN 31

    BALBOA PARK #33 - 5 Years of Strangeland: What I’ve Learned About Hustle, Rest, Creativity & Running a Tattoo Shop on My Own Terms

    Hey there, my friend, January is usually tough. But this year, I decided to do things differently. Instead of pushing through exhaustion, I gave myself permission to slow down. No more forcing myself to keep Strangeland open every day. No more feeling guilty for taking a break. In the latest episode of Balboa Park, I reflect on:✨ Why I stopped accepting random walk-in tattoos✨ The five-year journey of Strangeland (from pre-post-pandemic chaos to now)✨ A special client who traveled from Las Vegas just for a tattoo (!?) and another who’s only has 1 tattoo and this tattoo it’s his whole back! If you’ve ever struggled with balancing creativity, business, and mental health, I think you’ll relate to this one. 🎧 Listen now → on Substack, on apple podcast, on spotify, on audible or amazon music, on… pretty everywhere (search for podcast nicoz balboa park)📺 Watch the episode on YouTube Let me know what you think! Do you also struggle with slowing down? 👉 Leave a comment on YouTube or reply on Substack—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Big hugs,Nicoz show Notes for BALBOA PARK #33 - 5 Years of Strangeland: What I’ve Learned About Hustle, Rest, Creativity & Running a Tattoo Shop on My Own Terms * Why January always felt overwhelming—but this year was different * Strangeland turns 5! A look back at its wild journey * Letting go of the need to "always be open" * The kind of tattoo clients that bring true joy * That time someone traveled from Las Vegas just to get inked (!?) 💬 Join the conversation! * What do you do when you feel burnt out? * Have you ever changed the way you work to better fit your life? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nicozbalboa.substack.com

    18 min
  3. JAN 10

    BALBOA PARK #32- Why You Should Respect Your Art and Support Your Creative Passion

    In this episode of Balboa Park, that I recorded on my phone IN THE PARK, I reflect on what it’s been like to support Mina’s creative journey as a musician. From her first steps into music, nervously playing the theme from The Last of Us, to performing live at STRANGELAND, to designing her own shows—this journey has been nothing short of inspiring to witness. Mina’s story reminds me that creativity and passion thrive when you’re given the space to explore without pressure. She’s teaching me as much as I’m supporting her—about patience, resilience, and the pure joy of learning for the sake of it. I’m so proud of her and excited to see where music takes her next. Supporting her isn’t about fixing mistakes or giving her opportunities I didn’t have. It’s about encouragement, patience, and being present for her growth. Whether it’s making posters, helping her set up a Big Cartel shop, or cheering her on at concerts, I feel so lucky to be part of this journey. She’s even worked toward a new goal—saving for her first piano, which she achieved with tips from her shows and a little help from Grandpa at Christmas :) Mina’s journey also brings me to the bigger picture of treating your own art as a real job. Whether you're cooking, creating music, or making art, the effort, skill, and dedication are real. You don’t have to be a household name like Taylor Swift to prove your passion. What matters is the joy of creating and the importance of nurturing that creative energy. As I reflect on my own journey, I want to remind you—whether you're an established artist or just starting, your art is important. Your voice is valid, and the creative work you're putting out into the world matters. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that to be an artist, you have to sacrifice or be in constant turmoil. Respect your process. Respect your work. Treat your creativity as a profession, because it is. Remember, if you’re struggling with self-doubt or feeling like your art isn’t “good enough,” please stop. Your art speaks for itself. Keep going. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. If you’ve enjoyed today's reflections, feel free to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and subscribe to my newsletter on Substack If you're enjoying this podcast and want more content like this, join my creative community on YOUTUBE and in the Graphic Journal Club on PATREON. Remember, you are an artist, and your art is valid. Talk to you soon!Nicoz Link to Mina’s Ko-Fi keywords: Supporting your creativity * Respecting your art * Artistic journey * Creative passion * Artist mindset * Creative self-respect * Art as a profession * Creative growth * Nurturing creativity This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nicozbalboa.substack.com

    38 min
  4. 12/10/2024

    BALBOA PARK #31- Out of My Comfort Zone (and Into Linocuts!)

    Hello there! This week on Balboa Park, I took a detour into the world of linocut engraving—part experiment, part therapy. 🎨 It started as a playful escape from my usual artistic routines and ended up being an ode to imperfection and patience. Inspired by a past series, Spit on a Stranger (yes, the Pavement song 🎶), I decided to turn a self-portrait into a two-color print. The process was both meditative and nerve-wracking—especially without a press, as I relied on a trusty wooden rolling pin to transfer the designs. Let me tell you, it’s not for the faint of heart! But that’s the joy of stepping outside the so-called comfort zone, isn’t it? What’s even cooler? I used a treasure trove of Fabriano paper gifted to me by an old friend from high school. We hadn’t seen each other in 20 years, but reconnecting was heartwarming—and now, I have all the paper I could ever need for this new creative adventure. This linocut journey has been a reminder to embrace playfulness in art, even when it’s not tied to a specific purpose or income. (Though let’s be real, my tattoos and illustrations are what keep the lights on. 💡) If you’re curious,I’ve shared some snapshots of the process— rolling pin and all—just click play on those videos. Listen to the episode to hear all about: * Why I love WhatsApp voice messages (and how they’re like mini-podcasts) (especially with my friends P., Nini and Oscar) * A day spent engraving at STRANGELAND with Trognette and neon color dreams. * The story behind the massive stash of Fabriano paper—and how it made its way to my studio (hello Enrico!) 🎧 Listen now Until next time, may your creativity take you somewhere new. And if you’ve ever tried linocut printing, reply to this email and tell me all about it—I’d love to hear your stories! Warmly,Nicoz PS: still not sure when and how those prints will be for sale. but if you’re in a Xmas spirit and you want to gift my work you can buy my merch or you can buy/gift a graphic journal class or a graphic journal membership This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nicozbalboa.substack.com

    17 min
  5. 11/05/2024

    BALBOA PARK #30 - Birkenstock, Self-Doubt and Balance

    Hey everyone, Welcome back to Balboa Park! I’m Nicoz Balboa, a tattooer, artist, trans man, and a mom living in France. If you've been following along, you know this podcast is a space where I reflect on my creative journey as a way of exploring self-reflection and personal growth. In Episode 30, I’m getting back to my original podcast format—just audio. I talk about why recording on video didn’t quite work for me and dive into the recurring theme of self-doubt, which touches so many areas of my life. From sending out newsletters and losing subscribers to managing a constantly shifting routine as a parent and artist, there’s a lot to unpack about how doubt and balance play into my daily experience. So grab a drink, take a pause, and join me as I reflect on the rhythms of life, creativity, and finding a balance between personal time and work. —Nicoz Show Notes: Episode 30 - Birkenstock, Self-Doubt and Balance In this episode of Balboa Park, I return to the classic audio format, reflecting on themes like: * Why video recording didn't feel right for the podcast * The challenges of self-doubt, from unsubscribers to parenting choices * Balancing creativity with the unpredictability of life as a parent and artist * How a shifting routine with shared custody of my daughter affects my mornings * Thoughts on guilt, frustration, and the constant need for balance between personal time and family life * How running Strangeland tattoo studio fits into this flexible schedule Dive with me deep into the complexity of maintaining creative momentum, while navigating life’s shifting dynamics. Whether you’re a creative, a parent, or just someone trying to find balance, this episode will resonate. Thanks for tuning in! xxx Nicoz PS: and some promo for cool merch, if you’re looking for ways to bring creative queer energy into your everyday life, check out my T-shirts and drinkware collection on nicozbalboastudio.com/store. Wear your creativity, and express your journey through these pieces that feature my unique designs. Every purchase supports my work and helps me continue to offer these creative practices. Plus, they make for thoughtful gifts for anyone on their own journey of self-discovery and growth! PPS: you may also like this episode: and this episode: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nicozbalboa.substack.com

    24 min
  6. 10/10/2024

    BALBOA PARK #29 - The Art of Doing It All & Doing Nothing: How Rest Fuels Inspiration

    Hey friend, In this weird week when news from the world are scaring and sad, I'm really put hard work into choosing joy in everyday life as a way of respect for those who are losing life, love & everything in wars and occupations. I want to actively practice gratitude for my family and my art practice. I’m here in your inbox for this reason… to create a joyful connection with you by sending you the last episode of Balboa Park! This one felt special because I found myself getting deeper into the ideas of creative rest and the beautiful chaos of inspiration—something I’ve been reflecting a lot on lately. In this episode, I talk about how I’ve learned to let go of the pressures of productivity and simply be—whether it’s a good day, a tough day, or something in between. I also get into the weird magic that happens when we stop trying so hard to “do,” and instead, just allow creativity to flow. It’s a lesson I’ve learned through journaling, podcasting, and well… just life. 🌱 I think this conversation could really resonate if you’ve ever felt like you needed to do all the things to feel productive, or if you’ve been craving a little more spaciousness in your creative process. I hope you’ll find some space to listen and maybe take something from it to apply to your own journey. Take a breath, grab your favorite tea (or coffee, or wine, no judgment!) or put on your walking shoes and go for a 29 minute walk , anyway join me in this reflective chat. Let’s explore this together—just like in our Graphic Journal Club. Listen on this page or on any podcast platform you prefer! Looking forward to hearing your thoughts, as always! Much love,Nicoz ps: please notice that the Inktober is on! if you don’t know what I’m talking about check this instagram post. you can also decide to come and share your drawings in the Graphic Journal CLub FACEBOOK GROUP! pps: one more thing!! I’ve always been obsessed with T-shirts as you know already, but enamel mugs and tumblers They give me just as much joy! Whether it’s my favorite band, artist, or museum, I love seeing those designs on my drinkware—and now, I’ve got my own for you to enjoy! Check out my “All Bodies Are Cool” enamel mug and tumbler, perfect for coffee or tea lovers. Different designs on both sides (lefties and righties, I got you!), and a super cool trans guy with a gorgeous belly in the middle. And for my fellow water bottle fans, I’ve got the “Remember to Shine” bottle featuring my iconic Nicoz Balboa mermaid. It's ideal if you’re like me, trying to drink more water but doing it in style! I know, it feels a bit early for Christmas shopping, but with print-on-demand, we’ve gotta plan ahead to avoid the holiday stress . So take a tour through my store—you’ll find something fun for yourself, or as the perfect gift (and hey, why not grab a T-shirt to match your mug or water bottle? AND Use code COZY10 for 10% off all orders over €50! Let’s make this holiday season both cool and cozy! www.nicozbalboastudio.com/store This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nicozbalboa.substack.com

    28 min
  7. 07/21/2024

    BALBOA PARK #27 - From Art Exhibitions to Ethical T-Shirts: Catch Up with 27 club

    Welcome to Episode 27 of Balboa Park! here for you another episode of the podcast! if you don’t like to listen to the podcast here for you all the content I talk about translated into a newsletter. And if you do like to listen to it, well scroll through the newsletter to see the images AND to have a surprise ;) Content Recap: * Introduction * Updates on my recent activities and exhibitions * My thoughts on maintaining creative momentum * Reflections on dealing with artistic pressures * Balancing various creative endeavors * An announcement! Balboa Park Newsletter Hi, hello, welcome, welcome. I’m Nicoz Balboa, and this is Balboa Park. For those new to my podcast, I’m a trans man from Italy who’s been living in France for over 20 years. I’m a MOM to a teenage daughter and a passionate tattoo artist and graphic novelist. Life Updates and Recent Projects It’s been a while since the last episode, and I was worried that the podcast might end abruptly, much like the legends of the 27 Club. Thankfully, I’m back, and there’s so much to share. The past month and a half has been incredibly busy. I’ve been preparing for an exhibition featuring my new Perimeter series paintings. You might have seen some of these in my newsletter or on Instagram. The show took place in La Rochelle alongside two talented artists, Henri Capron and Virginie Rouvière, as part of a collective exhibition themed "Be Water." It was fascinating to see how each of us brought our unique interpretations of water to the show, from underwater self-portraits to scenes of nature and beach life. The Struggles of Creativity Under Pressure Despite the joy and fulfillment that these projects bring, maintaining a consistent creative output can be challenging. I’ve realized that the pressure to produce can often stifle creativity. The key to overcoming this is finding joy in the process rather than succumbing to guilt or shame about productivity. Balancing Multiple Creative Outlets In addition to my painting and exhibitions, I’ve been busy with the second season of the Strangeland podcast, which required extensive editing, interviewing, and promotion. Coupled with my tattoo work and an upcoming guest spot in Rome, it felt overwhelming at times. However, I’ve learned that it’s important (YET NOT EASY) to slow down and reconnect with the simple pleasures, like reading and stepping back from the constant connectivity of social media. Exploring New Ventures I’m excited to announce a new project that combines my love for art and t-shirts. After a great conversation with fellow artist Reesabobeesa on Instagram, I decided to try Printful, a platform that allows for ethical and on-demand printing. You can now find my first two t-shirt designs on my website, NicozBalboaStudio.com/store One features two Mermtrans kissing, and the other is a self-portrait with the messages "All bodies are cool" on the front and "You are cool" on the back. These designs are meant to spread positivity and self-acceptance. and since you read up ‘till here, I have a discount for you to use in my shop: copy/paste this word THANKYOUFORREADING at the checkout to have a discount. discount expires in one week (July 28) Final Thoughts Thank you for sticking with me through this journey. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving an honest review or sharing it with a friend. And, please, check out my new t-shirts and let me know what you think. Your support AND feedback means the world to me. Stay creative, find joy in the process, and I’ll talk to you soon! Best, Nicoz Balboa [Visit NicozBalboaStudio.com for the latest updates!] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nicozbalboa.substack.com

    17 min

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when we observe our creative process ART becomes our chance for growth & a spiritual practice... & a podcast theme :) nicozbalboa.substack.com

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