From Tofu to Nottofu: Michelle’s Journey from Design to Food and Sustainability

The Language of Blue: Merissa’s Artist's Journey

In this episode of The Polkaros Potcast, I chat with interdisciplinary artist Merissa (Mersie) about her journey from design student to fine artist and musician. She shares how her time pursuing a master’s degree in Korea during the pandemic — and the isolation that came with it — led her to discover cyanotype as a language for memory and emotion. We talk about using art as a tool for mental wellness, her community project Hidden Threads of Blue, upcoming workshops and exhibitions, and how cyanotype, music, and painting help her process trauma and create connections through art. The full video recording of this episode is available on our Patreon — come join us there for the full conversation and more behind-the-scenes creative stories. https://www.patreon.com/polkaros

From Tofu to Nottofu: Michelle’s Journey from Design to Food and Sustainability

In this episode, I speak with Michelle, creative director and founder of the Singapore-based design agency Tofu. Tofu has been providing creative branding solutions, integrated campaigns, pop-up experiences, and more since 2011.   After 14 years at Tofu, Michelle shares how her love of food has guided her practice into a more purposeful direction through their new food design unit at Nottofu—a platform where food meets climate-conscious design.

A Conversation with Miniature Clay Artist Joycelyn of Ai Clay

In this episode of The Polkaros Potcast, I sit down with Joycelyn, the talented miniature clay artist behind Ai Clay. A true pioneer in the miniature food clay craft scene in Singapore, Joycelyn launched Ai Clay in 2009 and has since built a beloved brand that has captured the hearts of many. I’m thrilled to have had the chance to speak with her just before she closes the chapter on her studio and embarks on a new adventure. During our conversation, Joycelyn shares the story of how she turned her passion for crafting into a thriving business—a journey that’s both inspiring and insightful. It was especially meaningful for us, as our assistant Kai has been a long-time fan of Ai Clay, ever since his teenage years. In fact, Joycelyn’s work inspired him to start his own miniature clay business when he was just 14! We were excited to welcome Joycelyn into our studio for this special conversation, and we can’t wait for you to hear her story. Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring chat about art, business, and the passion that drives creativity. Watch this episode on our Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/polkaros [https://www.patreon.com/polkaros] Follow Jocelyn/ Ai Clay https://www.instagram.com/aiclay/ [https://www.instagram.com/aiclay/] www.aiclay.com [http://www.aiclay.com/] You can also listen to our Potcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6UbTy64O7GNcCRPhKHWmEG?si=713a65f766874dee [https://open.spotify.com/show/6UbTy64O7GNcCRPhKHWmEG?si=713a65f766874dee] Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/the-polkaros-potcast/id1707979552 [https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/the-polkaros-potcast/id1707979552] Podbean: https://polkaros.podbean.com [https://polkaros.podbean.com/] Polkaros Shop & Ceramic Workshops https://polkaros.com [https://polkaros.com/en-sg] More Polkaros! https://www.instagram.com/polkaros/ [https://www.instagram.com/polkaros/] https://www.facebook.com/polkaros [https://www.facebook.com/polkaros] — Music track: Apple Tree by Lukrembo Source: https://freetouse.com/music [https://freetouse.com/music] Free Background Music (No Copyright)

A conversation with Genevieve and Isabella on Art, Architecture, and AI

In this episode of the Polkaros podcast, I am excited to speak with Genevieve and Isabella who share a studio in the same building as us! Both with a background in architecture, Genevieve is an artist and designer, centers her work around ceramics and material research. Isabella, is a visual artist whose work delves into the conflicts between our built and natural environments, using her skills in programming and data to enhance her creative expression. Throughout the episode, we discuss their artistic journeys, the rigorous nature of architectural education, and the role of AI in the world of craft.  Join us for an insightful conversation about the challenges and triumphs of merging traditional practices with modern technology, and the importance of preserving the human element in art and design.

A conversation with paper artist Cheryl from Lulo Paper Studio!

Welcome to another episode of The Polkaros Potcast. This week, we're excited to have Cheryl from Lulo Paper Studio as our special guest. Cheryl, a talented paper artist, shares her inspiring journey from studying product design and photography to discovering her passion for paper art. In this episode, Cheryl discusses the evolution of her craft, from building sets during her university days to creating intricate paper sculptures and illustrations. She reveals the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from hand-cut paper art to utilizing technology like 3D software and cutting machines to enhance her work. Cheryl also offers insights into her creative process, client collaborations, and the importance of passion projects in her artistic journey. From miniature dioramas to large-scale installations, she shares how her work has been exhibited in various venues, including the Singapore Science Centre. Tune in to discover Cheryl's unique paper craft and her future aspirations, including her dream of creating an interactive exhibition!