Break it Down, Make it Better

Building non-traditional, independent art and music spaces from the ground up. Why did our guests start their spaces? What worked? What didn't? What advice would they give to those considering starting a new space? Featured Guests: Natalie Wetzel, artist; professor of sculpture at Kendall College of Art and Design; co-director of The Moon (multi-disciplinary space on Grand Rapids' westside) Lily Rich, artist; musician; runs Snake Shack house venue Zachary Trebellas, artist; Avenue for the Arts

Episode 4: Neighborhood Voice and Conflict + Art What is the role that art can play in communities? What is the role art does play in communities? What are opportunities for artists in Grand Rapids to get involved in public art projects? Featured Guests: Latesha Lipscomb, Community Engagement Project Manager for the City of Grand Rapids Planning Department; Artist; Entrepreneur; Heartside Neighborhood Resident

Episode 3: Making the Pitch Chris Fredricks is the founder of OPEN co. a design studio focused on building brands, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The studio is an incubator for brands we launch, a platform to educate entrepreneurs in our community and a design studio. Chris started OPEN co. after four years as the Graphic Designer for the sun care company Sun Bum. He is currently a Visiting Professor of Graphic Design at Grand Valley State University, and he talks to us about building and managing

Episode 2: Nothing is original. Is there such a thing as an original idea in art? In anything? When making work that crosses boundary lines of medium, what does it mean to create "in response to..." or "influenced by..." or "in collaboration with..."? Featured guests: Jeen Na, artist and Zachary Trebellas, artist; Avenue for the Arts Advisory Board Member

Episode 1: Existentialism strikes! What is Break it Down Make it Better? What was it in years past? What will it be in the future? Why is it a podcast right now? What happens when you speak into the microwave? WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN? Featured guests: Katie Moore, artist; Exhibitions Manager, ArtPrize and Zachary Trebellas, artist; Avenue for the Arts Advisory Board Member