In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, Charuka Arora speaks with Dawn Bouchard, KC Christmas, and Christina Cowan—three talented artists featured in our 101 Art Book: Floral Edition. They open up about their creative journeys, the love they share for floral art, and the real-life struggles artists face, from finding their style to managing the business side of things. It’s a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about growth, passion, and the beauty of staying true to your artistic voice.
May 15, 2025•45 min•Season 4Ep. 63
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, curator and art advisor Liza Zhurkovskaya sits down with Charuka to talk about building an art career, supporting artists in a fast-changing digital world, and the behind-the-scenes of curating for ATH Magazine Issue 6. From her early days discovering a passion for galleries after moving to Canada, to launching her own online gallery, Liza shares honest reflections on the joys and struggles of life in the art world — and offers thoughtful advice to ...
May 08, 2025•30 min•Season 4Ep. 62
In this week’s podcast, Charuka Arora sits down with Sarah Sham for an honest, inspiring, and deeply relatable conversation about what it really takes to build a successful business as a woman entrepreneur. Sarah shares her journey of discovering her passion for interior design, her unconventional career path that included stints in fashion, media, and theater, and the moment she decided to carve her own niche — not just by following a family legacy but by building something of her own, brick by...
Apr 24, 2025•55 min•Season 4Ep. 61
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, host Charuka Arora sits down with French-born, Melbourne-based artist Lucy Lucy. From leaving behind a career in international commerce to becoming a full-time artist, Lucy shares how community, color, and collaboration shaped her creative path. A heartfelt conversation about art, staying true to yourself, and finding beauty in the journey.
Apr 17, 2025•47 min•Season 4Ep. 60
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, gallerist and curator Kristin Hjellegjerde shares her inspiring journey of starting a gallery with nothing but passion. She talks about the challenges she’s faced, how she supports her artists like family, and what she looks for when curating shows. Kristin also gives advice to emerging women artists and encourages them to keep showing up, no matter what.
Apr 10, 2025•45 min•Season 4Ep. 60
On this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, we’re joined by Nicholas Wilton, founder of Art2Life. Nicholas shares his journey as an artist, the struggles of self-doubt, and how comparison can hold you back. He offers practical advice on finding joy in your work, building confidence, and discovering your creative voice. If you’ve ever felt stuck or afraid to create, this episode is for you!
Apr 03, 2025•26 min•Season 4Ep. 58
In a world where fast fashion is everywhere, Richa Maheshwari is taking a different path—one that honors tradition and keeps India’s lost crafts alive. Through her brand, Boito, she’s working closely with artisans in Odisha to ensure their skills and stories are preserved for generations to come. This episode dives into her journey, the challenges of slow fashion, and why handmade pieces carry so much meaning.
Mar 27, 2025•38 min•Season 4Ep. 57
In this episode, Charuka Arora sits down with Mira Malhotra, a bold and boundary-breaking artist, to talk about how art can challenge stereotypes, redefine gender norms, and create real social change. Mira shares her personal journey, her struggles as a woman in the creative industry, and how she has built a space where she can be her authentic self. If you’re an artist looking for inspiration on how to use your creativity to push boundaries, this episode is for you!
Mar 20, 2025•33 min•Season 4Ep. 57
In this episode, host Charuka Arora chats with Reena Lath, the owner of Akar Prakar Gallery, about her journey into the art world. Despite not having a traditional background in art, Reena talks about how she found a deep connection with India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage through art. She shares how an artist’s commitment and daily practice can lead to personal growth and creativity. Reena also discusses how the art world is changing in the age of social media and how she balances trad...
Mar 13, 2025•42 min•Season 4Ep. 56
In this inspiring episode of the Arts to Hearts podcast, host Charuka Arora talks with artist Haejin Yoo about her journey from a corporate job to following her true passion—art. Haejin shares how she struggled with self-doubt, the fear of leaving a stable job, and the challenge of finding her creative style. She opens up about the tough times, the moments that tested her, and what kept her going when things felt hard. During their chat, Haejin talks about how creativity helped her grow, the imp...
Mar 06, 2025•1 hr•Season 4Ep. 55
Being an artist is tough, especially when the world tells you it's not a "real job." Amie McNee knows this struggle all too well. She spent years battling self-doubt, feeling embarrassed about wanting to make art her life. But instead of giving in to fear, she rewrote her story—literally. Through journaling, she found confidence, challenged societal expectations, and built a creative life on her terms. Now, she’s inspiring other artists to do the same. Her message? Your art matters, and success ...
Feb 27, 2025•45 min•Season 4Ep. 54
In this inspiring podcast episode, we explore how art can be a path to emotional healing and empowerment. Francesca shares how painting helped her process grief and release emotions that words couldn’t express. Dante opens up about using art to navigate personal loss and transform pain into creative expression. Varvara sheds light on her journey as a female artist and her mission to uplift women's voices in the art world. Together, their stories show how creativity can foster healing, self-expre...
Feb 20, 2025•53 min•Season 4Ep. 53
In this episode of the Arts To Hearts Podcast, host Charuka Arora chats with three incredible artists—Lauren Battistini, Stephanie Mulvihill, and Amy Pleasant—featured in the book 101 Floral Artists. They share their creative journeys, the inspiration behind their floral-themed artwork, and how flowers play a deeper role in their storytelling. From finding their creative voice to overcoming self-doubt and accepting the change, this conversation is a heartfelt look at the power of art and self-ex...
Feb 13, 2025•31 min•Season 4Ep. 52
In this episode, Charuka Arora chats with artists Kat Vandal and Eileen Hall about two game-changers in art—childhood creativity and color. They explore how tapping into a childlike mindset can bring more joy and freedom to your work, plus how colors can evoke deep emotions and tell powerful stories. Get ready for inspiring insights, fun creative tips, and a fresh perspective on making art!
Feb 06, 2025•33 min•Season 4Ep. 51
Can AI help artists or replace them? On this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, we sit down with Brazilian digital artist and surface designer Hanna Inaiáh to explore how AI has transformed her creative process. From struggling during the pandemic to using AI as a tool to bring her visions to life, Hanna shares how she owned new technology without losing her creative touch. She talks about the challenges, the learning curve, and how AI has helped her grow her business and reach more clients....
Jan 30, 2025•37 min•Season 4Ep. 49
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, Gayatri Singh shares her journey from growing up in the Himalayas to founding Art Incept, a gallery dedicated to mentoring emerging artists. Gayatri discusses the challenges young artists face, the importance of storytelling, and how she’s creating opportunities for diverse voices in the Indian art world. Don't miss her valuable tips for emerging artists looking to make their mark!
Jan 23, 2025•40 min•Season 4Ep. 49
In this week’s episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, Charuka Arora chats with Katie Chidester, the director of Brea Gallery. Katie shares her 25-year journey in the arts world, what makes the gallery a special community hub, and why spaces like this are essential for connection and creativity. She opens up about the challenges artists face, the importance of supportive communities, and her hopes for more inclusive spaces. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insights, advice, and a...
Jan 16, 2025•46 min•Season 4Ep. 48
This week on the Arts to Hearts Podcast, we have James Oliver, an artist from Philadelphia and the owner of the art gallery James Oliver Gallery (JOG) in Pennsylvania. He shares his inspiring journey of balancing a thriving art career with running the James Oliver Gallery for nearly two decades. From showcasing local talent to curating international exhibits, James opens up about the challenges, motivations, and lessons learned.
Jan 09, 2025•31 min•Season 4Ep. 47
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, Charuka Arora sits down with Tania Yakunova, a Ukrainian artist and award-winning illustrator. Tania shares her inspiring journey—from starting as a copywriter to finding her passion for art, overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome, and building a successful creative career. She opens up about how her life experiences, including the impact of war, have shaped her art and her journey toward understanding her inner artist.
Jan 02, 2025•42 min•Season 4Ep. 46
Curator and gallery owner Liza Zhurkovskaya joins Charuka Arora on the Arts to Hearts podcast to share her inspiring story of navigating the art world. From overcoming early struggles and starting her gallery during the pandemic to offering valuable advice for artists on building connections and crafting compelling statements, Liza’s insights are both practical and uplifting. Perfect for anyone looking to thrive in the creative industry!
Dec 19, 2024•30 min•Season 4Ep. 45
In this heartfelt episode, Charuka dives into the ups and downs of life—moving studios, navigating festive chaos, and finding clarity as 2025 approaches. She reflects on personal loss, the joy of supporting artists through her books, and the power of real connections. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about simplicity, creativity, and community.
Dec 12, 2024•10 min•Season 4Ep. 44
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, Shelby McFadden takes us through her transition from graphic designer to author, sharing how creativity and intuition guided her journey. She talks about overcoming self-doubt, the process of writing her book Metamorphosis, and how she’s marketing it to reach readers. Shelby also offers insights into balancing creative passions with family life, reminding us that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
Dec 05, 2024•51 min•Season 4Ep. 43
In this week’s episode of the Arts to Hearts Podcast, Charuka Arora chats with Carrie Scott, a writer, curator, art historian, and TV presenter, about her unique journey in the art world. From shifting gears during the 2009 recession to working with well-known artists, Carrie shares how she built a successful career by following her passion. The conversation also touches on the struggles women face, particularly in the arts, and why there’s still a long way to go for true gender equality. Listen...
Nov 28, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 4Ep. 42
In this moving episode of Arts to Hearts, Danielle Krysa, creator of The Jealous Curator, talks about how she navigated the profound grief of losing her father and undergoing a major surgery. Through personal stories and reflections, Danielle reveals how art became her tool for healing and rebuilding her confidence. She discusses the importance of taking creative breaks, accepting imperfection, and letting creativity grow naturally—without the pressure to constantly perform. This episode offers ...
Nov 21, 2024•1 hr 30 min•Season 4Ep. 41
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts podcast, Charuka Arora chats with Australian artist Rachel Burke, who shares her inspiring journey from childhood art projects to a successful creative career. Rachel talks about how she turned her passion for quirky, colorful designs into wearable art, sculptures, and installations. She discusses the importance of staying true to your unique self, creating your own path, and following your instincts—even when the road ahead seems unconventional. Rachel’s st...
Nov 14, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Season 4Ep. 40
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts podcast, Susan diRende shares her incredible journey as an artist who discovered her passion later in life. From teaching and writing to working in real estate, Susan has had a variety of experiences that shaped her creativity. She opens up about facing personal challenges, including loss and starting fresh in New Zealand, and shares valuable insights on overcoming imposter syndrome. With her practical advice on taking small steps and seeking new experiences...
Nov 07, 2024•59 min•Season 4Ep. 39
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts podcast, Charuka Arora speaks with artist Angela Burson about her incredible journey from a young mom creating art in her kitchen to confidently claiming her identity as an artist. Angela shares her struggles with self-doubt and the importance of finding support within the creative community. Together, they explore how art can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and connection. Tune in to be inspired by Angela's story and learn how accepting your creativit...
Oct 31, 2024•32 min•Season 4Ep. 38
On this week's Arts to Hearts Podcast, Ocki Magill, founder of Blue Shop Cottage, shares her journey from advertising and fashion design to creating a thriving gallery that supports emerging artists. In this conversation, she highlights the importance of following your passion, building a strong community, and adapting to the ever-changing art world. Discover valuable lessons for artists on how to perfect their craft and thrive in today’s digital landscape.
Oct 24, 2024•38 min•Season 4Ep. 37
This week on the Arts to Hearts Podcast, we have a special guest, Lisa Ray, who is shaking up the art world with her creativity. Lisa is not just an actor, author, and writer—she’s also the co-founder of TheUpsideSpace (TUS). This digital art platform highlights artists from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. In this episode, Charuka and Lisa discuss the importance of putting yourself out there as an artist and the need for a more inclusive art world. Lisa sees herself as a creativ...
Oct 17, 2024•42 min•Season 4Ep. 36
In this solo episode, Charuka Arora looks back on 2024, sharing the highs and lows of running the Arts to Hearts Project. She talks about the importance of perseverance, building a supportive community for artists, and what’s in store for the next year. Tune in for an honest reflection on creativity, growth, and navigating change.
Oct 10, 2024•11 min•Season 4Ep. 35
