Made to Make

Shannon Grissom

Made to Make (formerly Painterly Life) is a podcast series about creativity across disciplines—and the resilience it takes to keep going.On this channel, you’ll find honest conversations with artists, musicians, songwriters, photographers, producers, and makers of all kinds as they share their creative process, personal challenges, and what keeps them creating through uncertainty, doubt, and change.This isn’t about hacks, overnight success, or perfect routines. It’s about the real work of living a creative life—the setbacks, breakthroughs, persistence, and the deeply human pull to make things.If you’re a creative navigating the long road, questioning your path, or looking for meaningful conversations about art and life, you’re in the right place. 🎨 Expect stories that heal, tips that empower, and creative energy to fuel your soul. 🖌️ New episodes on the first and third Thursday of the month—because every guest is a new muse, just for you.

  1. 6h ago

    Aesthetic Arrest: Kathy Sheridan on Finding Beauty in Ordinary Moments

    Send us Fan Mail What if the most extraordinary art begins with the most ordinary moments? In this episode, I chat with acclaimed painter Kathy Sheridan, whose luminous still lifes and intimate landscapes invite us to slow down and truly see the world around us. Kathy shares her unlikely path from pursuing science to studying with legendary painter Wayne Thiebaud, revealing how a single childhood museum visit—and later, an unexpected gift of oil paints—set her on a life-changing creative journey. Together, they explore the power of light, the importance of mentorship, and the concept of aesthetic arrest—those rare moments when a work of art stops us in our tracks and reconnects us with the present. Kathy reflects on how her work has evolved toward simplicity, why aging has deepened her artistic vision, and how paying attention to everyday beauty can transform both art and life. Whether you're an artist, collector, or simply someone longing to reconnect with creativity, this conversation is a gentle reminder that inspiration is always waiting in the quiet moments we often overlook. IN THIS EPISODE: Kathy's unexpected journey from science to professional artistThe childhood museum experience that changed her lifeStudying with renowned painter Wayne ThiebaudWhy light is her greatest source of inspirationThe meaning of "aesthetic arrest" and why it mattersHow her artistic style has evolved toward simplicityFinding beauty in everyday life and ordinary objectsEncouragement for artists to trust the creative journeyKEY TAKEAWAYS Creativity begins with paying attention.The ordinary often holds extraordinary beauty.Great mentors can shape both your craft and your confidence.Simplicity can create the deepest emotional connection.Art invites us to slow down, be present, and truly see.Support the show Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com

    Aesthetic Arrest: Kathy Sheridan on Finding Beauty in Ordinary Moments
  2. May 21

    From Depression to Healing: How Creativity Changed David Sandum’s Life

    Send us Fan Mail Most people think creativity comes from talent or inspiration — but for artist David Sandum, it’s been a deep, healing journey shaped by depression, trauma, and rediscovery. When life’s darkest moments hit, he turned to art, transforming pain into powerful visuals and stories that challenge how we see suffering, resilience, and self-expression. Now, David reveals how embracing instinct, symbolism, and spontaneity can break you free from creative blocks and open new pathways in your mind and heart.In this compelling conversation, you’ll discover:  How David’s depression sparked a 25-year artistic journey that culminated in exhibits worldwide and a poignant Auschwitz series honoring his grandmother’s past.  The spiritual and emotional significance behind his signature roots and network-inspired symbols—patterns that reflect grounding, interconnectedness, and personal history.  Why creativity acts as a catharsis—empowering you to process overwhelming feelings and regain control during life's toughest storms.  Practical tips for overcoming creative stagnation: creating a nurturing space, starting with instinctive doodles, and embracing mistakes as part of the process.  The surprising differences between painting, printmaking, and writing as emotional outlets—and why allowing accidents can lead to your most authentic work.  How moving physically, exploring nature, and shifting mediums—like photography—can reignite your inspiration when you're stuck in darkness. Whether you’re battling personal struggles, feeling creatively blocked, or simply craving a deeper connection to your art, this episode offers transformative insights. David’s resilience and openness show that healing one stroke at a time is possible—and that your story deserves to be told through your art. Perfect for artists, dreamers, and anyone seeking a way back from despair, this conversation will inspire you to find beauty in vulnerability and strength in imperfection. Visit David Sandum’s website or follow him on Instagram @davidsandum for more of his inspiring work. This episode reminds us: your greatest growth often comes from life’s hardest lessons—and your art can be your most powerful healing tool. Support the show Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com

    From Depression to Healing: How Creativity Changed David Sandum’s Life
  3. Apr 16

    Colette Lafia: Art as Prayer~The Creative Process as a Path to the Divine

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Made to Make Podcast, host Shannon Grissom talks with spiritual director and author Colette Lafia about the powerful connection between creativity and spirituality. Together they explore how creativity can become more than a skill or hobby—it can be a sacred practice that connects us with the divine. Colette shares how creative expression can deepen self-awareness, nurture our inner lives, and help us cultivate a meaningful relationship with ourselves, others, and something greater. From simple rituals like lighting a candle before beginning creative work to free-writing exercises that unlock inspiration, this conversation offers practical ways to bring intention, gratitude, and spiritual awareness into your creative process. Drawing from insights in her books Comfort and Joy, Seeking Surrender, The Divine Heart, and Leaving the Shore, Colette encourages creators to see their work as an ongoing dialogue—one that invites curiosity, openness, and trust. If you’re an artist, writer, maker, or anyone seeking deeper meaning in the creative process, this episode will inspire you to embrace creativity as a sacred path. ✨ In this episode we discuss: • Creativity as a sacred act and spiritual discipline • How artistic materials and mediums can become teachers • The connection between contemplative practices and creativity • Free writing exercises to unlock inspiration • Simple rituals to bring intention and presence to creative work • Maintaining creative energy and nurturing the inner artist Support the show Please like, subscribe and share! For more information and to connect with us visit PainterlyLife.com

    Colette Lafia: Art as Prayer~The Creative Process as a Path to the Divine

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Made to Make (formerly Painterly Life) is a podcast series about creativity across disciplines—and the resilience it takes to keep going.On this channel, you’ll find honest conversations with artists, musicians, songwriters, photographers, producers, and makers of all kinds as they share their creative process, personal challenges, and what keeps them creating through uncertainty, doubt, and change.This isn’t about hacks, overnight success, or perfect routines. It’s about the real work of living a creative life—the setbacks, breakthroughs, persistence, and the deeply human pull to make things.If you’re a creative navigating the long road, questioning your path, or looking for meaningful conversations about art and life, you’re in the right place. 🎨 Expect stories that heal, tips that empower, and creative energy to fuel your soul. 🖌️ New episodes on the first and third Thursday of the month—because every guest is a new muse, just for you.