PERSPECTIVES: Artist Talks with Lavender Studios

Micael Elrod

The amazingly creative Micael Elrod swung by the studio and shared her whimsy and her depth of knowledge in art, history, religion, sci-fi, ecology, quantum mechanics and so much more! We dive into this amazing body of work that spans textiles, painting, sculpture, an homage to motherhood and amazing women of the world. We were fascinated with her attention to detail, her ability to add subliminal layers and metaphors, and all the roads that ADHD can take us down. Micael is an artist resident at Overland Park's InterUrban ArtHouse and has had her artwork in many galleries across the city. Check out her new exhibit coming up on Juneteenth and then check out her amazing book recommendations! We think she should host our book club! Enjoy Micael's Website Click here [https://www.micaelelrod.com/] Instagram Click here [https://www.instagram.com/micael_elrod] InterUrban Arthouse Click here [https://www.interurbanarthouse.org/] Some of the amazing authors recommended during this artist talk. NK Jemisin - Broken Earth Robin Wall Kimmerer - Braiding Sweetgrass Angela Davis - Women, Race and Class Monica Sjoo - The Great Cosmic Mother

Christian Dixon

All the way from Maryville, Missouri, singer-songwriter Christian Dixon stopped by the studio to share his music and the stories behind it; including his experiences with grief and why he believes the best songs are often the saddest ones. We first met Christian a while back and immediately connected with his songwriting. The way he tells a story reveals someone who has lived through profound, life-changing experiences, especially at such a young age. His songs are honest and vulnerable, reflecting both heartbreak and resilience. Though he's faced his share of hardships, he continues to lead with grace and gratitude, carrying those experiences forward through his music. Christian has become a familiar face in the Kansas City music community, regularly appearing at writers' circles, open mics, coffee shops, and venues throughout the heartland. We've also had the pleasure of featuring him at our House Arty series, where his thoughtful songwriting and heartfelt performances left a lasting impression on friends and fans alike. If you'd like to follow Christian on his musical journey you can find links to his social media and website below. Instagram Click here [https://www.instagram.com/christiandixonmusic/] Website Click here [https://christiandixon.bandzoogle.com/home]

ODD ART BY ODESSA DOOLITTLE

Meet Skyler Walton AKA Odessa Doolittle. Skyler is a multi-disciplined artist that embodies painting, drawing, sketching, illustration ceramics, film making and so much more! In this session we learn about Skyler's mormon upbringing, his travels of growing up in a military family, and his desire to connect with like-minded artists who share his enthusiasm for character work and anti-capitalism! Skyler is currently touring the Con scene with his new graphic novel and comics and doing caricature art at fairs and festivals. We hope to incorporate some of his amazing art in our venue as well. If you would like to follow Skyler on his journey please click the link below. Enjoy! Instagram Click here [https://www.instagram.com/odd_caricatures/]

Mandie Harding

Content Warning, this artist talk references sexual violence and non-consensual imagery. If you need to abstain, pause or skip the content, please feel free to do so. This is a heavy topic which we feel helps de-stigmatize victims of social and sexual violence. Please tend with care. Multi-disciplined artist and educator Mandie Harding stopped by our studio to show how her work was a type of therapy for her and how sharing her story helps get through the trauma and onto a path of recovery and redemption. If you would like to follow Mandie and see what she is working on next, please follow the link below. We've also included a link for MOCSA, the Metropolitan Organization Countering Sexual Assault. Help is available if you need it. Mandie's Instagram Click here [https://www.instagram.com/mandiehardingart/] MOCSA Click here [https://mocsa.org/]

Abbie Hullinger

The amazingly talented singer/songwriter and storyteller Abbie Hullinger stopped by the studio to share her songs and her story. Abbie is a singer songwriter from Lineville, Iowa. Her journey began at only 14 years old, when she was gifted her first Fender. Her sound could be heard from the groove of Northern Iowa radio, down to the song swaps of Nashville, Tennessee. Her music is heavily influenced by rock, country, blues, and soul. After a long hiatus Abbie returns to her roots singing the songs that heal and nurture. Her powerful vocals and empowering lyrics had eyes watering throughout the room. We had a wonderful time getting to know Abbie and we hope you do to! If you'd like to follow Abbie please click the link below. Abbie's Instagram Click here [https://www.instagram.com/abbiehullingermusic/]