The Urbanaut Podcast

🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #53 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this inspiring episode, we sit down with British photographer Al Brydon, whose evocative work explores the intersections of time, place, and memory. Known for his solargraph series and co-founding the 'Inside the Outside' collective, Al offers a glimpse into his creative process and philosophical musings on photography. About Our Guest: Al Brydon Al Brydon is a Sheffield-based photographer whose work delves into experimental and narrative-driven photography. A co-founder of the 'Inside the Outside' collective, Al is celebrated for projects like his solargraph series, which uses pinhole cameras to capture long-exposure images over months. His practice reflects a fascination with deep time, imperfection, and the unseen, creating a layered exploration of landscapes and human connection. Al’s work has been exhibited globally and featured in publications such as Solargraphs and Even the Birds Were Afraid to Fly. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover how Al’s life in Sheffield and the Peak District shapes his creative outlook. * Learn about the six-year journey behind his solargraph series and its philosophical underpinnings. * Reflect on the role of chaos and destruction in art as a means of creation. * Explore the process of turning experimental projects into photobooks. * Gain insights into Al’s approach to storytelling and capturing the ephemeral. Don’t forget to: * Like this episode to support meaningful conversations about art and photography. * Subscribe to our channel for more in-depth interviews with photographers and creatives. * Share this episode with your community to inspire discussion about experimental photography. EPISODE LINKS: * Solargraph Prints: Argentea Gallery * Based on a False Story Prints: MMX Gallery * Al's New Book: Even the Birds Were Afraid to Fly: Link * Follow Al on Instagram: @al_brydon * Website: www.al-brydon.com OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up… 3:28 - Life in Sheffield: Finding inspiration in an industrial and natural landscape 14:32 - Darkroom Revelations: Discovering the magic of photography 21:41 - Embracing Chaos: A creative philosophy of destruction and imperfection 28:32 - Mirror or Window? Reflecting on photography’s dual purpose 40:37 - Solargraphy Explained: Capturing deep time and unseen changes 49:18 - Time and Perspective: Exploring non-human perceptions of time 56:52 - A Forest’s Death: Documenting the destruction of a pine plantation 1:00:18 - Pandemic Anchor: Solargraphs as a source of solace during lockdown 1:13:16 - Influences and Inspirations: The artists who shaped Al’s work 1:16:56 - Photobook Creation: Turning Solargraphs into a published work 1:32:18 - Stories in the Landscape: Unexpected narratives in photography 1:47:00 - The Philosophy of Forgetting: Memory, absence, and ephemeral art 1:51:14 - Reflections on Art: Intention, interpretation, and artistic legacy SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #AlBrydon #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #Solargraphs #ExperimentalPhotography #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support]

🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #52 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Finnish artist, educator, and curator Rebecca Simons. Her multidisciplinary work examines the complexities of family, trauma, and memory, offering immersive experiences that challenge conventional storytelling. About Our Guest: Rebecca Simons Rebecca Simons is a Swedish-speaking Finnish artist whose practice spans photography, video, installation, and community engagement. Her work delves into intergenerational trauma, exploring family dynamics and memory preservation through innovative methods. Based in the Netherlands, Rebecca is a teacher at Willem de Kooning Academy and a member of the SAAC (Sexually Abused Artists Collective). Her deeply personal yet collaborative approach has made her a vital voice in contemporary art. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover how Rebecca’s family history inspired her art and storytelling. * Learn how she integrates archival materials, such as photographs and letters, into her work. * Understand the impact of multidisciplinary art on addressing complex social issues. * Explore her collaborative projects, such as Daughters and her work with SAAC. Don’t forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes diving into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to spotlight Rebecca’s important work. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. EPISODE LINKS: Rebecca’s Website: rebeccasimons.com [https://rebeccasimons.com/] SAAC Collective: saacamsterdam.com [https://saacamsterdam.com/] OUTLINE: 0:00 - Coming Up… 2:48 - Rebecca’s background and introduction 5:14 - Transition from painting to photography as an interactive medium 7:39 - Multidisciplinary approach and artistic identity 20:17 - Personal storytelling as a tool for healing and dialogue 28:43 - Collaboration within her family and the healing process 33:08 - Using archival material to create layered narratives 42:11 - Immersive installations and their impact on viewers 56:58 - The role of resin in preserving memory and reclaiming narratives 1:13:54 - Rebecca’s involvement with SAAC and collective storytelling 1:21:21 - Thoughts and Advice for Artist and Image Makers SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #RebeccaSimons #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #MultidisciplinaryArt #TraumaHealing #SAAC #FamilyNarratives #ArchivalArt #ContemporaryPhotography #Urbanautica #PatrickLeeHubbard --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support]

The Urbanaut Podcast - John Sanderson🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #51 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. This episode delves into the evocative landscapes of America through the lens of distinguished photographer John Sanderson. His work captures the transformation and decay of environments shaped by history and human interaction. About Our Guest: John Sanderson John Sanderson's photography is shaped by his upbringing in New York and his family’s Vaudeville history, melding a deep connection to American landscapes with narrative-driven imagery. His large format photography captures scenes from urban decay to rural serenity, exploring the interplay between man and environment. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover the evolution of John's career and his approach to capturing the American landscape. * Explore the stories and artistic insights behind his significant projects like "Railway Landscapes" and "National Character." * Understand how John's photography reflects broader socio-political themes and personal history. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more insights into the world of art and photography. * Like and share this episode to explore the profound narratives within American landscapes. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content. OUTLINE: * 0:00 - Coming Up… * 3:28 - Background and Influence * 6:56 - Discovery of Large Format Photography * 13:54 - Influence of Winston Link and American Modernist Painters * 22:54 - Photographic Philosophy and Emotional Connection * 30:14 - Globalization and Homogenization of Places * 9:52 - Relevance of Post-Industrial Landscapes * 47:32 - Artistic Integrity and the Role of the Soul * 52:07 - Challenges of Large Format Photography * 1:04:58 - Artistic Perspective and Visual Approach * 1:09:05 - Project Narratives and Inspirations * 1:15:31 - Timelessness of Railroad Landscapes * 1:54:32 - Culmination and Reflections * 2:03:54 - Closing Remarks and Future Aspirations EPISODE LINKS: John’s Website: john-sanderson.com [http://john-sanderson.com/] John’s Instagram: @johnsandersonphotographer [http://instagram.com/johnsandersonphotographer] SOCIAL: * Twitter: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #JohnSanderson #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #AmericanLandscapes #DocumentaryPhotography #RailwayLandscapes #NationalCharacter #VisualNarrative #ArtisticExploration #Urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support]

🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #50 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this fascinating episode, we sit down with the innovative German photomedia artist Boris Eldagsen. Renowned for his deep exploration of the unconscious mind, Boris’s work blends photography, theater, painting, and film to create symbolic visual poetry that exists between the sublime and the uncanny. About Our Guest: Boris Eldagsen   Boris Eldagsen is a Berlin-based photomedia artist whose career spans over two decades. His work delves into the unconscious, crafting evocative images and immersive installations that connect with viewers on an intuitive, dreamlike level. From "Inverted Street Photography" to cutting-edge AI image-making—termed "promptography"—Boris continuously pushes the boundaries of art and technology. With exhibitions worldwide and collaborations with leading institutions, Boris remains a pioneer in exploring humanity’s collective unconscious through art. Tune in to this episode to:   - Explore the origins of Boris’s groundbreaking "promptography" and AI image-making.   - Learn how Boris combines archetypes, symbolism, and technology to craft his evocative art.   - Discover how his personal philosophy and experiences shape his creative journey.   - Reflect on the societal and artistic implications of AI in visual storytelling.   Outline: 0:00 - Coming Up…  3:30 - Early Artistic Influences and Transition to Photography   7:23 - Philosophy and Artistic Foundations   11:11 - Discovering Yin and Yang in His Work   18:05 - Collaboration with Roger Ballen   22:45 - The Concept of Inverted Street Photography   28:18 - Transition to Staged Photography   47:27 - Evolution of Immersive Installations   1:00:17 - Collaborative Work and AI Experimentation   1:02:19 - Philosophy of AI and Promptography   1:13:50 - Creativity as Problem-Solving   1:20:53 - The Future of AI and Art   1:41:27 - Overcoming Misconceptions About AI in Art   1:53:35 - Exploring Human Condition and Subconscious Themes   1:58:27 - Returning to Black-and-White Imagery   2:00:45 - Closing Thoughts on Collaboration and Future Projects   Don’t forget to:   - Subscribe to our channel for more episodes that explore the intersection of art, technology, and the unconscious.   - Like and share this episode to celebrate the evolution of visual storytelling.   - Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.   EPISODE LINKS:   Boris's Website: www.eldagsen.com Instagram: @boriseldagsen SOCIAL:   - Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast   - Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast   - Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast   - Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast   #BorisEldagsen #TheUrbanautPodcast #AIArt #Photography #Promptography #VisualPoetry #TheUnconsciousMind #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #stevebisson #PatrickLeeHubbard   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support]

🎙️ Welcome to Ep. #49 of The Urbanaut Podcast, presented in collaboration with Urbanautica.com. In this episode, we journey with Canadian photographer and educator Kyler Zeleny, whose work delves deeply into the Canadian prairies and the stories within rural communities. Kyler’s trilogy of photo books captures the essence of small-town life, exploring the beauty, resilience, and complexities of the rural landscape. About Our Guest: Kyler Zeleny Kyler Zeleny (b. 1988) is an accomplished Canadian photographer, educator, and author, holding degrees in Political Science, Photography and Urban Cultures, and a PhD in Communication & Culture. With published works like Out West, Found Polaroids, Crown Ditch & The Prairie Castle, and Bury Me in the Back Forty, Kyler has documented rural life on the prairies for over a decade. His work, featured in publications like The Globe & Mail, The Guardian, and The Washington Post, reflects his ongoing exploration of rural identity and urban-rural contrasts. You can follow Kyler's journey and works on Instagram at @kylerzeleny [https://instagram.com/kylerzeleny] or on his website at kylerzeleny.com [https://kylerzeleny.com/]. Tune in to this episode to: * Discover the origins of Kyler’s trilogy documenting rural Canadian life: * Explore his inspirations drawn from his academic and artistic background, and how his rural upbringing on the Canadian prairies continues to shape his artistic philosophy. * Delve into his reflections on “post-photography” in an AI-driven era, where traditional photography blends with digital and archival storytelling. * Hear Kyler’s philosophy on respecting the creative process and pursuing knowledge, as he shares insights on capturing rurality's “roses and thorns.” * Learn about the “hero’s journey” in his work, as Kyler returns to his roots to create a layered narrative of rural life. Don't forget to: * Subscribe to our channel for more episodes exploring art, photography, and place. * Like and share this episode to celebrate the stories and landscapes of the Canadian prairies. * Follow us on social media for updates and exclusive content. EPISODE LINKS: * Kyler’s Contact: www.kylerzeleny.com * Kyler’s Instagram: @kylerzeleny [https://instagram.com/kylerzeleny] OUTLINE: 0:00 - Introduction to Kyler’s Trilogy 8:56 - Farm Background and Early Photography Beginnings 14:37 - Influence of New Topographic Photographers 35:09 - The “Hero’s Journey” and Storytelling 36:51 - Exploration of ‘Found Polaroids’ 52:34 - Loneliness and Spiritual Connection to Rural Life 1:25:22 - Reflections on ‘Post-Photography’ 1:30:38 - The Rose Metaphor 1:32:08 - Layered Storytelling in Photography 1:59:44 - Creating a Roadmap of Past, Present, and Future 2:06:08 - Final Reflections and Advice to Photographers SOCIAL: * Twitter: /UrbanautPodcast * Facebook: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Instagram: /TheUrbanautPodcast * Support on Patreon: /TheUrbanautPodcast #KylerZeleny #TheUrbanautPodcast #Photography #CanadianPrairies #DocumentaryPhotography #RuralIdentity #OutWest #CrownDitch #BuryMeInTheBackForty #ArtisticExploration #urbanautica #SteveBisson #PatrickLeeHubbard --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support [https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-urbanaut-podcast/support]