Chris Williams talks about his time in Texas, working for a woman who used robotics to save lives after the tsunami in Fukushima, as well as the time he spent in Turkey, which included being in the midst of protest. In Pittsburgh, he has worked on a wooden audio game for the visually impaired ("Coral"), an installation in Lawrenceville that mimics a pier and uses light patterns that interact and work with the environment ("Ghost Pier"), and a simulation of the experience of listening to an 8-9 hour brass music performance in Turkey ("Pittonkatonk"). He also engages in a conversation about the Black Lives Matter movement.

View the links below to see more images from the projects.

Chris Williams on the Internet

• Email him: chriswilliams2@gmail.com
• Coral Project
• Ghost Pier Project in Lawrenceville
• Pittonkatonk

Theme Music by DJ Thermos

• Twitter: @LikeAThermos
• Instagram: @amoswolf

Lesley Rains on the Internet

• www.eastendbookexchange.com
• Like East End Book Exchange on Facebook
• Follow @EastEndBooksPgh on Twitter
• Follow @eastendbookexchange on Instagram

Theme Music by DJ Thermos

• Twitter: @LikeAThermos
• Instagram: @amoswolf

The AP Collection has always been a journey for me to figure out what helps me create. As of right now, it's listening to people talk about themselves and drawing or painting responses to that. That simple exchange is inside everything that I as an artist have created. 

The next endeavor for my practice is to produce work that connects directly with those that are supporting it. For now the interviews and other free things on this site are all the same and always free but for a small amount of support, there's more for those that want it.

Patreon is a way for me to keep drawing—the thing I want to do always. Please check out the site,  pick a level, and help me make more.

If you like what I do, share it with others. Below are just some of the things that I've done. I'm stoked to see what's next.

Rachel indulges us in her journey navigating through creativity, freelance work, challenging herself, and motherhood. She puts it best when she says (or, quotes Ira Glass), "Your taste level will probably exceed your skill level for a long time." Most recently, she started (and finished) her "100 days" project, consisting of only non-digital illustrations and art works. Rachel emphasizes that the key to growing as a creative is commitment and perseverance––traits she has engrained into her practice.

Rachel Arnold Sager on the Internet

• www.rasager.com/
• Follow @rasager on Twitter
• Follow @r.a.sager on Instagram
• "100 Days" Project

Theme Music by DJ Thermos

• Twitter: @LikeAThermos
• Instagram: @amoswolf

In July, he had his first solo show, "As Best I Can Remember," at 707 Gallery. He gives us the 411 on how he views the art scene in Pittsburgh and openly tells us about his experience of being a local artist. 

For more on his works and what he is up to, visit the links below!

Travis on the Internet

• www.travismitzel.com
• Travis on Facebook
• Follow @adobesausage on Instagram
• Follow @travmitz on Twitter

Erica Pilgram shares her talent for TWYGA, see more at thatiswhatyouaregoodat.com

With On The Skids, Jordon's goal was to create a brand through the gallery. It's a little bit of everything – they screen print for other people, the space is open as a gallery with four shows a year, and On The Skids is its own brand with shirts, prints, and much more. He hopes that his gallery will be a place where he can showcase the success of others, and he dives into some talk about the Pittsburgh art scene as well as what it means to be an artist.

The next On The Skids show is called THE HUNT, featuring works by Abby Diamond and Sean Coxen. The show's opening is on October 17th from 7PM-1PM at the On The Skids Gallery (419 Warrington Avenue).

Jordan Milchak on the Internet

• www.ontheskids.bigcartel.com
• Like OnTheSkids on Facebook
• Follow @on_the_skids on Twitter

As you probably know, Pittsburgh has a rich history, which Peduto knows a good deal about. He has a way of talking about Pittsburgh's past, using it as a way to color and influence the city's future without hindering its growth. Peduto also mentions ways in which he tries to get Pittsburghers to engage in local government, from Mayor's Night Out (going out to talk to people) to Mayor's Night In (having people go and talk to him), allowing the chance for any and every voice to be heard.

Check out P4 Pittsburgh to learn about the bold vision that Peduto and his office envisions for Pittsburgh.

Bill Peduto on the Internet

• P4 Pittsburgh: People, Planet, Place, Performance
• Follow @billpeduto on Twitter
• www.billpeduto.com
• Like Bill Peduto on Facebook
• www.pittsburghpa.gov/mayor/
• Call his office! 412-255-2626

A Fair in the Park is the yearly celebration of visual art, craft, and making from Southwestern PA creators. Everything from wearables, ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, wood, two dimensional work, leather, and metal are on display in a series of tents nestled cozily in Mellon Park—tucked in the shade of the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. This event is more intimate than the Three River's Arts Festival. The park and adjacent gardens are nestled into the picturesque and residential Shadyside neighborhood. It's effortless to wind through the paved paths past a variety of artists lined up under grand and graceful trees. The following interviews are a selection of four vendors representing different types of craft offered at this year's Fair.

For the 46th annual event, they've organized a silent auction, activities for children (face painting and crafts optimized for little hands), and a great line up of musicial guests including Cello Fury and Mahajibee Blues—so there's something for everyone.

A Fair in the Park on the Internet

• Craftsman's Guild of Pittsburgh
• A Fair In The Park
• Mellon Park
• The Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council (Thank you for sponsoring this episode!)

Artist's Links

• Jeff Brunner heybeast.com
• Susan Phillips ceramicsusan@gmail.com
• joshuakosker.com and touchstonecrafts.org
• Michelle Sabol aka Memphis George

Great news! The Society of Illustrators accepted me as a full member! Go to pittsburghillustrators.org to see where my portfolio will be posted and check out some >amazing< local talent. 

Patreon update: I'm shooting my video (hopefully) this weekend while I'm in DC for The National Book Festival. Patreon is like a Kickstarter crowd funding thing but instead of a one time donation it's a regular pledge, (I'm setting my scale from $1 to $500 per month). Patrons recieve rewards from shout outs on the podcast, to a monthly care package cool stuff I print pictures on. Be on the look out for the patreon launch later in September. Note: This isn't taking the place of just sending money through the website. If people want to do that they can—this just creates a more sustainable environment for me to create in. This is also not a fee for listening to the podcast. It is a way of trying to make my art practice as a while more sustainable. 

Recently I talked about writing down and keeping track of how I use my time and it has been a real game changer! Since keeping a simple list of what I'm doing each day has allowed me to better prioritize things and stress a lot less—focusing on the task at hand.

Speaking of which, I've been doing A LOT OF ILLUSTRATIONS and it's pretty fucking wonderful. (Most of my free time is spent drawing and that's what I really love and all I really want to be doing you guys!) It's not just straight forward commisions (that I enjoy doing very much) either. Friends and past guests of the AP Collection, IDK Magazine had me illustrate their whole issue and >>it got a little conceptual<<. It's one of the few times I am reminded that my expensive education might have been worth it after all.

If you want me to make something for you hit me up! theapcollection@gmail.com

Paid promotional podcasting is already off to a great start! The Greater Pittsburgh Art's Council has me coming to cover an event next week so be on the look out for that. (Rate: $25 an hour with a minimum of a 2 hour commitment.)

With all this change I haven't updated the site—it's coming. The winter will bring new things for your eye balls at theapcollection.com. In the meantime, ask questions and keep in touch!

Deb Gross grew up in a few parts of Pittsburgh, but mainly the South Hills. As a part of her colored experience, she has spent the last 15 years in Pittsburgh working with many community groups and stakeholders in the neighborhood to tackle revitalization issues. As she puts it, right now, the District's goal is to make the process easier for who want to do projects and make things happen in the city.

Over the years, Pittsburgh has been growing more and more into a popular city, with big magazine and newspapers dubbing it as "most livable" and "affordable." Along with this popularity, comes the marginalization of groups that have been here for much longer, groups that are the foundation of the culture and history of Pittsburgh. We talk to Deb about how to include these groups and ways to get people more engaged in the community. The only way is through talking and listening, and this point is made very much clear in this chat.

Deb Gross on the Internet

• http://pittsburghpa.gov/district7/
• Follow @DebGrosspgh on Twitter
• Email District 7: district7@pittsburghpa.gov

Theme Music by DJ Thermos

• Twitter: @LikeAThermos
• Instagram: @amoswolf

In this chat, Ashley shares with us her journey as an artist – from Kentucky to the Sotheby's Institute of Art London to Pittsburgh – and gives an inside look at the business of art and being and artist. Below are pictures from Ashley's studio, and the Kentucky Derby painting that we talk about in the chat is below, as well!

If you like what you see and hear, support Ashley by going to her event, Art of Botany: An Open House of Art and Flowers, at Cuttings Flower and Garden Market on August 13 from 2PM - 6PM.

Ashley Cecil on the Internet

• https://www.ashleycecil.com/
• @ashleycecil on Twitter
• @ashleycecil on Instagram
• Ashley Cecil on Facebook

Theme Music by DJ Thermos

• Twitter: @LikeAThermos
• Inastagram: @amoswolf

While telling the story of his upbringing, Jeremy shares how New Castle has inspired him to write this film after eight years of work in Los Angeles. His vision of the film is clear and deeply rooted in the mood of small town New Castle and the Rust Belt. His passion for film clearly comes through his way of explaining the creative, conceptual, and technical sides of movie-making, giving a behind the scenes look from the editing room to gritty film locations.

Learn more about and support Jeremy's upcoming movie, Yinz, by checking out the Kickstarter page, which just started in the beginning of August!

– Jennifer

Jeremy Michael Cohen on the Internet

• http://www.jeremymcohen.com/
• Kickstarter for Jeremy's upcoming movie, Yinz 

Theme Music by DJ Thermos

• Twitter: @LikeAThermos
• Inastagram: @amoswolf

I have to thank Assemble for letting me hang out late on a Tuesday night and Cafe con Leche for letting be try this out during their take over of Assemble's space for a month.

What I Learned

I need a wrangler: I can't greet people and conduct the project at the same time. In the future I will have to have someone take care of getting guests up to speed on what's happening and prepped to participate, (this includes signing that damn waiver I keep forgetting)

I can draw like a sketch artist: I've never had someone describe to me an object to draw until today. It was such a simple thing but really the most amazing activity. Try this.

Kinetic talents are not easy to illustrate with a live model: I have drawn a lot of live models but if they are dancing... well it's not going to work. I still had to take some reference photos to work from.

I must have different types of surfaces prepped: It's totally possible to switch between drawing in pencil, sketching in india ink, and moving to oil. I just need all the surfaces ready to go. In the past I was just starting the sketch and taking it back the studio. This delays the creation and posting of the pieces which is frustrating, (I wanna get these baby birds outta the nest)! 

Come into the studio while I noodle and think!

In 2015, I've decided to pursue two projects spawned from the work I've done on The AP Collection. Finder Quigley, a series of private, invitation only art shows featuring artists interviewed for this website and That's What You're Good At, a brand new website using micro-podcasting and my own skills as a portrait artist to digitally map the talents of Pittsburghers.

While focusing on these endeavors, I have less time to put together the regular podcast. I'd like to continue to juggle it all so I've reduced the number of regular episodes to twice a month. However, I want to share the process of this work with others. The past six months have been kind of lonely. Planning and pursuing things has taken a lot of time and it hasn't been super public so the website doesn't appear as active. 

I've decided to document the work in a series of recorded journal entries. These will either be incredibly boring to you—or an interesting peek into my process. 

Why is process so important?

It's the backbone of everything I do. The interviews collected on this site, the galleries of my own work, the projects I have put together—all of them started because I wanted to learn. I learn best by telling other people. This is me both learning and teaching. 

I hope you enjoy the look into my process. I hope you share your thoughts with me. I hope to see you around the internet.

Listen as she schools me about music and fills me on her life making the things she loves.

Addi Twigg & The Telephone Line on the Internet

• additwigg.com
• additwigg on Soundcloud
• telephonelineband.com
• @telelinepgh
• Deutschtown Music Festival

Sitting down at my dining room table we fell into an easy conversation. Weaving through the story of his upbringing and education, we got to his time working at The Woodlands which for me was a personal highlight.

Enjoy this chat and check out his show at Unsmoked in Braddock on August 8th!

Stephen Grebinski on the Internet

• stephengrebinski.com
• Twitter: @aparatfoto
• Inastagram: @aparatfoto

Music Credit // Amos Levy

• 140: @LikeAThermos
• IG: @amoswolf

Walking into the space where Mr. Brewer holds court, the room is really a gallery of countless framed images featuring the city, the people who lived in it, and some major historical figures who spent some time here. Brewer has spent decades collecting photographs, including images from the original Pittsburgh Courier. He tells the story of finding what was once believed to be a lost archive, in the crawl space behind some Christmas ornaments. 

What struck me about this conversation was how short our memories are as human beings. Looking over the images John flipped though, I saw so many people living so many different lives across more than a century. When we think of the past, many of us think about this big stuff—the huge events that become the small planets we revolve our attention around. John has some of those images, (see the picture of Rosa Parks). He also has a picture of three young black women sitting in a shiny new convertible in the 1950s—all smilies and period appropriate hairdos. He has images of kids playing outside, of black and brown families smiling for family portraits. He has pictures of lives lived in Pittsburgh that weren't obvious to you but they mattered because everyone that came before us paved our place in the spaces we inhabit today.

When I posted about this conversation some wondered why they never heard of the GPC before. It was pointed out in the comments that if you didn't spend time in Homewood or weren't invited to an event at the space then you might not be aware of it. 

It illustrates the rifts, territorial barriers, and neighborhood lines that were and continue to be drawn here in Pittsburgh. However we forget with our short memories how those seemly bolded lines are blurred and shifted. That's not an indictment against anyone, just something to keep in mind. A week before this was recorded, there was a 400 person wedding that took place in that space. Since this chat, concerts and other activities have taken place there. It begs the question, "Did you not know because you never thought to look?"

That's the theme of this conversation. There is so much to learn but we have to be willing to ask. John receives images from people who found family heirlooms only to discover a fascinating history associated with them. He has made a carrier collecting, curating, and writing about these lives. He has worked with the Smithsonian and the Carnegie Museum of Art to bring life to images whose stories would otherwise be forgotten. It was beyond a pleasure to meet and talk with him. Please enjoy our conversation and 

John Brewer Jr. on the Internet

• Greater Pittsburgh Coliseum website
• John Brewer Jr.'s Author Page on Amazon

Thank you to my lovely friend Tom Hughes for introducing me to John. Keep adding people to your list for me!

All images posted with permission from John Brewer Jr. 

Recently, she covered the NKOTB, TLC, and Nelly concert that rolled into town as well at the Jenny Lewis concert—getting some really rad snaps of the latter in her dreamy jumpsuit. She's got a lot going on and I look forward to following her around town and maybe even working with her in future.

I learned a a lot from Amanda and hope y'all do as well!

• BOLD Pittsburgh website
• BOLD Pittsburgh on ISSUU
• @boldPGH on Twitter
• ​BOLD Pittsburgh on Facebook
• @BOLDPittsburgh on Instagram
• Podcamp Pittsburgh website

This conversation is about critique, how (or even if) artwork functions in a space, and gentrification. We talk about Unsmoked and Braddock community but I will say upfront here that neither of us live there or work their—therefore we can’t speak with any authority about the issues or concerns that the people of Braddock face and personally I don’t think it appropriate for me to do so. We talk briefly from our very limited perspective about what we have seen and heard in the news and learned in private conversations. 

This chat also focuses on Lee and his performative and interactive work. Beginning with interventions in comedy clubs and publicly on the streets of New York City, he explores the boundaries of his personal influence with people and the effects of propaganda-like language. He’s young, he’s experimenting, and he’s learning about what his white privilege looks like. If talking about the obvious systematic advantage that being young, white, and male in America bothers you and you don’t think you can handle uncomfortable conversations then maybe skip this chat… No hard feelings! In the type of interactions that Lee is participating, he is learning about people’s assumptions towards him—both good and bad. 

THIS WILL TOUCH SOME NERVES. I’M NOT GOING TO DO THIS RIGHT BECAUSE THERE IS NO RIGHT.

The subject of gentrification is a super complicated one that I don’t have the answers for and neither does Max. I will say that it’s okay to critique. It’s ok to ask questions, it’s okay to say you don’t know something or admit that the topic is uncomfortable. It’s ok to not talk and just listen. If we don’t have even the beginnings of a conversation we don’t really get anywhere. Personally I believe the most important thing to consider is the story from someone you don’t know. Learning and listening to someone else’s perspective instead of closely guarding your own makes you a more empathetic human.

Clarifications

I’m a real dumbass for not knowing about Latoya Ruby Fraizer. I’m not apologizing for not knowing about all the artists ever, but I will apologize for not looking her up while Max I talked because I’ve been missing out. Her work is really intimate, powerful, and very much worth your time to explore. I’ve been reading through her website and I usually am not super impressed with people’s artist statements. Her’s is, simply put, the best I’ve ever read. Stripped of pretentiousness that most statements suffer from it reveals enough about her and the focus of her artwork but leaves enough room for you to discover more as you look through her photos, installations, and videos. Flipping through the photographs of her site the first thought I had was how small institutions make people feel. The shiny appeal of revitalization and the big dramatic 

Correction: Superior Motors isn’t the most funded thing on Kickstarter.

Finally, it’s okay to critique. It’s ok to ask questions, it’s okay to say you don’t know something or admit that the topic is uncomfortable. It’s ok to not talk and just listen. If we don’t have even the beginnings of a conversation we don’t really get anywhere. 

Artist Statement

The city of Braddock is understood through a dense filter of what is being said about it. 

The Project Person Project: Brought To You by the #ENDOFNOW is a reflection of this filter and the confusion it causes. 

Originally, THE END OF NOW (and its leader, GUY) was an entity unrelated to the city of Braddock. It is a fictional and vague organization that mirrors contemporary propaganda (and makes its own) in order to re-contextualize the forms that aggressively engage us as consumers, Internet users, and interactive people. 

If I've learned anything over the past couple years, it's to never turn down an invite to go back stage. 

A cozy shipping crate was transformed into a chic little recording spot by Abode Home Staging. Mics from Peluso Microphone Lab and a super beautiful amp from Empire Music are tucked neatly into the space with the iconic Yellow Couch that is the center piece of Stephen's studio.

Stephen and Matt were in between recordings when they fed me snacks and let me record a quick chat! We talk about the studio, the sessions recorded during TRAF, and how Stephen built a business that utilizes his diverse skills set and lifelong devotion to music. 

Check out YellowCouchStudio.com and like them on Facebook to keep up with the latest videos from the Yellow Couch Sessions.

Along with Michael's work at the community garden, he is also the Volunteer Program Coordinator at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank in Duquesne, where they are always reevaluating and finding new ways to help people meet their needs. They are implementing new developments, such as providing fresh produce in the pantries and curating a safe space for those who come to the food bank to talk about more than just the food that they need.

Michael and Genevieve touch upon many topics. From living in Lawrenceville to Philly to Pittsburgh's topography to the important work that is being done at GPCFB and the neighborhood community gardens—you are sure to learn a thing or two. Also, Michael likes to talk about important topics while playing video games in a new vlog-type series on his YouTube. To view his YouTube channel and other links, click below!

• Follow @mj_in_pitt on Twitter
• YouTube: mjinthepit
• Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
• Lawrenceville Organic Community Garden

– Jennifer Huang

• WC&S Mixtapes Project
• YMCA Lighthouse Project on Bandcamp
• Twitter: @LikeAThermos
• Instagram: @amoswolf
• facebook.com/DjThermos
• soundcloud.com/djthermos/
• mixcloud.com/amosdjthermos/

Rush will be in the Free For All which is free for artists to participate and no cost for the audience to spectate. In this chat she describes her conceptual performance that requires passers-by to delve into themselves and confront their hangups in order to over come them.

The Mad Muse is a force. One that takes absolutely no excuses and zero shit. She discusses using her anger as a tool to to propel her work into audiences. Shakespeare, poetry, and her own life experiences are also in her arsenal an feature relatable themes to connect with her audience.

GO TO FRINGE! Check out their website for discounts, for performance packs that get you into multiple shows, and a map that details all the different spots in the North Side they are taking over this weekend!

• Pittsburgh Fringe Festival pittsburghfringe.org 
• Mad Muse: The Art of Mad Musing museinspiredmadness.com 
• Hudson Rush: Resurrection hudsonrushworx.com (Fringe free for all street theatre piece)

If you would like to be a part of SOS's 80th Anniversary Show in November, make sure to submit your work by July 14 and follow this link to find out more. The show will take place November 13–January 17 at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. Moreover, if you are interested in becoming a member, be sure to check out the site to find out more information.

Ashley will also be having a show from July 10–August 9 at the 709 Gallery in conjunction with the downtown gallery crawl. Be sure to check out both Duncan's and Ashley's works in the links below!

– Jennifer Huang

Society of Sculptures on the Internet

• www.societyofsculptors.org
• Society of Sculptors on Facebook
• Follow @sospittsburgh on Instagram
• ashleyhickey.com
• Duncan MacDiarmid's website earthviewstudios.com
• pittsburgharts.org

Music Credit

"Suonatore di Liuto" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) 
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ 

Here is a little taste of an event I'm working on that members get a first crack at an invitation. It's a secret art show that friend and former guest of the AP Collection, Danny Devine will be in attendance with six other artists. Listen, take a look at the pictures, and enjoy!

Questions? Email me! theAPCollection@gmail.com

Njaimeh on the Internet

• http://www.njaimehnjie.com/
• Pop Up Premieres
• Follow @en_jay_me on Twitter
• Follow @en_jay_me on Instagram
• Njaimeh Njie on Facebook

You can see more of his work in the pictures below and his website, also listed below. And be sure to check out his show, "Volksbeast," at the Mr. Roboto Project on May 1 at 7 PM, where he will be showing and selling old and new works.

– Jennifer Huang

Joe Mruk on the Internet

• www.redbuffalo.org

• Joe Mruk on Facebook

• Follow @redbuffaloill on Instagram

Positively delightful to speak to, Kristin's humble beginnings in bellydancing started with lessons at Alloy Dance and performances at Sphinx back when it was still in Southside. She gives an informative breakdown of the dance's history, the bellydancing community in Pittsburgh, and where people can learn how to bellydance in Pittsburgh. Not only a bellydancer, Kristin also eats fire! She bravely decided to take on this practice and learned right behind her apartment building on Baum Blvd. If you've always wondered how fire eaters do what they do, Kristin gives a little insight on the dangerous and exciting feat.

Genevieve and Kristin touch upon a number of topics in between, discussing controversies such as cultural appropriation to safety to what belly dancing is and is not – "it's exotic but not exotic dancing" – as well as some more mild topics such as travel and social media. Even Marcel Walker, former guest on tAPC, joins in for a bit!

– Jennifer Huang

Kristin on the Internet

• Like Morgiana BellyDance on Facebook

• Follow @PghFireGirl on Twitter

• www.southwestpabellydance.com

• www.morquettevolante.org

What I got was an avalanche of fiery, passionate responses from a fiery, passionate artist who thinks that if you want more art in your life, then you should f*ckin’ get off your ass and make it happen already!

Being a long time the AP Collection listener, you would have thought that I’d have known better than to expect a formulaic interview. Despite not turning out how I had planned, this chat actually totally accomplishes the goal of the Pittsburgh Guest Blogger Event of which led to its existence. 

The ideal behind the swap is to have two creative people blend up their POV’s to produce something fresh and vibrant. I believe that’s exactly what we achieved.

My Yinzer-lilt, general cluelessness and sophomoric wit combined with Genevieve’s artistic fervor, polarizing critique and educational insight to make quite possibly the best podcast ever n’at. 

Please enjoy this chat and don’t forget to check out all of the participants in this year’s Pittsburgh Guest Blogger Event starting with Genevieve’s work here (insert Lucy Quin link). Later dudes!!! 

Me (Alex Fadick) on the Internet 

• everybodylovesyou.net
• @alexanderFIV on Twitter
• Pittsburgh Guest Blogger Event hashtag #PghGBE

Editorial note: Thank you www.bensound.com for "Acoustic Breeze"—the music under the introduction!

From drawing in dirt as a kid, to forging his own exploration through different mediums and materials, Baron describes his history with the creative process and how it allows him to place his own thumbprint on the world today.

In his chat with Genevieve, Baron stresses the importance of owning your process. Repeating his process over and over again gives Baron control of everything and allows him to bring focus to his work. Making art and living up to the brand he has created with Studio A.M. gives him an accountability that he thrives on. 

Baron on the Internet

• See Baron's work at pop-x.com
• Visit Baron's website: baronbatch.com
• Follow @baron_batch on Twitter
• Follow @baron_batch on Instagram
• Like Baron Batch on Facebook
• Visit Studio A.M.'s website: studio-am.com
• Follow @StudioAMpgh on Twitter
• Follow @studioampgh on Instagram
• Like Studio A.M. on Facebook

We get into everything. First, we touch on making the decision to become a mother. Then on to her professional life, starting at a local non-profit and learning web design, which has opened up new doors to bigger opportunities. Finally, her philosophy on being a good project manager and how they can be essential to a productive and solvent team. In-between all this, she also found time to play bass in a few local bands!

I just want to hang out with her more… my love for Kate grows by the day!

Kate Daly on the Internet

• kateda.ly
• @tikikate on Twitter

My hope in sharing this information is to explain my line of questioning and real enthusiasm when talking to Val and Jason. Not that I really need a reason... they are not only super smart but incredibly delightful with which to shoot the shit! I hope to obtain a fraction of their knowledge during my professional journey. 

Enjoy this chat, come to Web Design Day, meet up at a Refresh Pittsburgh event!

Val and G. Jason Head on the Internet

• WebDesignerDay.com 
• @WebDesignDay on Twitter
• Refresh Pittsburgh
• @RefreshPitt on Twitter
• jasonhead.com
• @gjhead on Twitter
• valhead.com
• @vlh on Twitter
• Girl Develop it (Pgh Chapter)

• Ancient Future on Facebook 

• @_ancientfuture on Twitter

his chat post wins the award for most links. :)

The plan was originally to chat about his upcoming shows but we quickly delved into philosophy. Everything about Brian’s work refers to the journey of his life and the buddhist philosophy that underlined his world outlook. He is absolutely the most prolific artist in Pittsburgh, pumping out paintings and drawings by the dozens over a weekend. He appeared slightly stressed out when we chatted but it seemed that talking about this intense production period has given him a slight respite and a small window to reflect on the work. We never even got around to the fact that he is a curator at the local dive bar, Remedy, in Lawrenceville. 

"The Road is a Peril the World is a Pearl" is the most beautiful name for a most beautiful body of work. Be sure to check out his work at Imagebox, 4933 Penn Avenue (15224), on March 6th, 2015 during Unblurred and then his show at Gallery 4 opening May 2nd, 2015!

Brian Gonnella on the Internet

• www.bgoart.com 
• Brian Gonnella: Art on Facebook
• @briangonnellaisboring on Instagram
• Brian Gonnella's first chat on the AP Collection

This chat delves into the efforts behind these collaborations and the legwork that is crucial to finding artists and developing each project. They also discuss the qualities that embody Pittsburgh that aren't the traditional city symbols, (pierogi's, a classic ketchup brand, all the successful professional sports teams). farESH reflects what's happening now in the Steel City by cultivating artists and their relationships with other creatives.

All this work has culminated in the Bridges Mixtape that's currently on Soundcloud. 

RB on the Internet

• farESHbrand.com 
• farESH Brand Presents: Bridges on Soundcloud
• Like farESH Brand on Facebook
• Follow farESH Brand on Twitter
• Follow farESH Brand on Instagram
• Watch farESH Brand on YouTube

Be warned, this chat gets very technically specific very quickly...

Also note: My voice is extra scratchy in this conversation so enjoy that for what it is!

Christopher on the Internet

• christopherboring.com
• Blog post from Christopher's recent show at Future Tenant
• Artist: Christopher Boring on Facebook
• Follow christopherboringart on Tumblr
• Read Christopher's blog on Blogspot
• Email Christopher at boringart@live.com

About a month ago, Aaron was told that he had built a tolerance to the medication regiment he was taking to keep his cancer at bay. The cancer had gotten worse. There was nothing more they could do for him. Natalie's response? "That's not acceptable."

Sarah Ellis is Natalie's sister and a bartender down at the popular Central Lawrenceville spot, New Amsterdam. She came by my place to chat about her brother-in-law's journey from Pittsburgh to Puerto Rico to California and The Corbin Family Fundraiser event that she is putting together to help Aaron and her sister get settled in LA and pay for treatments not covered by his health plan. 

Check it out // Support

The Corbin Family Fundraiser
Thunderbird Cafe (4023 Butler Street 15201)
Thursday, February 26th, 2015
Doors at 7PM // Bands start at 8PM

If you can't make the event check out their GoFundMe page and give what you can.

He was also on point by describing Larchmont Heights as a large version of Shadyside in Pittsburgh. For some reason though, Shadyside stands out in Pittsburgh, (an awkwardly posh neighborhood littered with trendy cocktail bars and a varied offering of expensive restaurants), where as LH makes sense when you think of a Los Angeles neighborhood as an outsider. Expensive restaurants, check! Specifically themed boutique stores, check! Farmer's market featuring gluten free vegan baked goods, check! This is where relatively comfortable Angelino's get bagels and hang out with their kids on the weekends. It's nice! Sidenote: While we chatted I swear to god I spotted Andy Buckley from the (American) Office... I digress. 

Easily, we fell into conversation about Charles' site, his Youtube Channel, and his goal to share with the dudes of this world what they should be excited to wear. I learn the most from my chats with people in fields which  I have little to no experience. Honestly, Charles Godart and I are diametrical opposites when it comes to our interests yet bonded effortlessly over the work ethic required to get noticed in your field. Specifically when we discuss dealing with road blocks, I could relate to his perspective and appreciated his focus, adaptability, and professionalism. He also gave me some good advice about using the public transit system in LA for which I'm forever grateful. 

dig his links // enjoy the photo gallery  

Charles Godart on the Internet

• CharlesGodart.com
• Subscribe to The DapperDanMan1 on Youtube
• Follow on @charles_Godart Twitter
• Follow @CharlesGodart on Instagram
• Like The Charles Godart on Facebook 

Instead, the dry air and very visible sun in Southern California feels at first wonderful and then eerily consistent. Maybe it’s the skeptic in me but when things are too nice for too long I begin to wonder about the downside. Chatting with Damien Luvara, he’s honest about the adjustments he made moving to LA in 2000 and the challenge that is a creative life there—but he was and still is up for it. Going on his 15th year on the west coast, he has now established a number of projects that he excitedly shares with me in this chat.

Boss: The Untold Story of Tony Danza, is a play loosely based on Tony Danza’s early life and career that, as touched on in a review, “is a... brazen view at the concept of stardom”. We discuss how Luvara came to co-write this play and star as Tony Danza, getting a blessing from the big man himself.

Check out the links below for more info on Boss the play, and the documentary he’s producing about SuttonBeresCuller and the Minimart City Park. 

A gracious host, Damien invited us to his place in Los Feliz and even made the effort to snag us an orange from his neighbor’s tree, (with her permission of course). His abode is decorated with art from Pittsburgh based artists, including a piece from past guest / current friend of The AP Collection Danny Devine!

Enjoy our chat and check out his work! I’m waiting patiently for Boss to make it’s east coast debut. 

Katie and Christa are the married couple behind Leona's Ice Cream Sandwiches. Named in memory of their dog, Leona's is a local, small business that sells ice cream sandwiches created with homemade and local ingredients. "We don't put shit in our ice cream that is not real" says Katie Heldstab—and, while made from real dairy, they are lactose free! Many of their recipes are sourced from a recipe book created for the couple by Katie's mother and father, but this creative duo comes up with flair combinations themselves. Both Christa and Katie have a head for business as well as good taste for flavor combination.

In this chat, Katie talks about being married to her business partner, shares the history of Leona's, gives insight into what goes into making the sandwiches (from conception to production—but no trade secrets!), and looks into the future for what's to come for Leona's.

Warning number two: The end of this chat gets a little controversial! Katie is a Midwesterner and Genevieve is from the East Coast and they discuss in depth why Pittsburgh definitely belongs to neither but instead, it's own beautiful thing. 

You can find Leona's Ice Cream Sandwiches in local stores such as Zeke's Coffee and 52nd Street Market. Find the whole list and learn more about them at their website linked below!

–Jennifer Huang

Katie Heldstab on the Internet

• Leona's Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Follow @LeonasLLC on Twitter
• Follow @dreamerofcream on Instagram
• Like Leona's Ice Cream Sandwiches on Facebook

My mic arm is in the trunk of a car parked about 15 miles from my house so I held the mic myself for this and a few other conversations recorded this past week. This chat is raw, casual, and a shit ton of fun. The guys where game to just curl up with me on the floor and chit-chat about anything and everything while Decima the cat crawled around us, interjecting with meows. 

Afterwards, they supplied me with their album (recorded right across the river in Etna, PA) and they even played a few songs off it acoustically. It was the perfect way to end a chilly winter night. Check them out at Sonny's Tavern on Saturday, January 10th and around Pittsburgh!

The Lampshades on the Internet

•  www.thelampshadespgh.bandcamp.com
• thelampshades.net
• facebook.com/thelampshades

Originally from Cape May New Jersey, Mary's family owns a whale sight seeing company which introduced her to entertaining audiences at an early age. As you will learn though, she didn't really dig into performance until after receiving her degree in computer science in Philadelphia. 

While only in Pittsburgh for the past couple of years, she's already fell into a group of talented and funny people, including past guests: Krish Mohan, Ali Spagnola, Derek Minto, and Alex Stypula. She's also created a popular podcast where she eats and chats with people getting shit done in Pittsburgh called Brunchburgh.

Enjoy as she chats about being funny, being from Jersey, and what's next for her and the comedy scene in Pittsburgh.

Mary E. Stewart on the Internet

• brunchburgh.com
• @maryestew // @brunchburgh // @fervorimprov on Twitter
• @maryestew on Instagram
• Vimeo
• Youtube
• The Big Deal, Mary's sketch comedy group: Facebook // Twitter

Dad asked if I had left yet. "No." Dad asked if I'd talked to Mom yet. "No." Dad said he was in the hospital and wouldn't be making it to graduation. "Oh..."

Everything was fine, it's just his heart isn't working right and they need to monitor him. There's no need to worry and he has given his camera to Mom so I needed to make sure to take pictures of Carl's graduation. "Which way are you going?"

I explained our route to Blacksburg from Pittsburgh. "Well, don't stop in Charleston West Virginia." he said, "It's a shit-hole."

My dad was calm so I was calm. I made arraignments to go back to Hampton Roads with my mother and got on the road toward Virginia Tech. We got to Blacksburg, Carl graduated, I took the pictures, we drove home to Chesapeake. 

Last night Carl and I took in provisions for my dad to his hospital room. I spent a lot of time in this part of town in high school but enough had changed that I needed to look up exactly how to get to the facility. It's beautiful—built of poured and painted cement, glass and soft lights. It's a whole hospital devoted to people with heart issues of all varieties but every floor and every wing looks exactly the same. All broken hearts are equal here. This building is one of the tallest in this part of town but Norfolk is flat as shit so my dad's view is pale winter sky and the tops of other hospital facilities. He's gonna be fine but he's gonna be here for a few days more. 

Before visiting again today I drove out the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Every time I come home I like to, "say hi to the ocean" and this morning I just wanted to be alone for a little bit. Only close friends and family have been filled in on what's going on in any detail and to be honest I haven't cried or gotten real upset yet. I just wanted to sit with all the information and think. I wanted more of a plan than, "wait and see!" Sea gulls began to follow me, lurking in the hopes of getting treats from an off season visitor. I recorded a little update and headed back to the car. Getting to the hospital again my dad was resting so now I'm just sitting here in the dark. I know everything is going to be fine. I'll work on some website stuff and otherwise just hang out and wait.

The nurse just came in, my dad is stirring, We're gonna talk, we're gonna figure stuff out, we're gonna make a plan.

Matt left Pittsburgh a few years ago and moved to Los Angeles after getting a lead on a job. With only $200 to his name he crashed with a friend while starting a production job as a compositor. It just so happens that he got to work on the 3D re-release of his favorite film, and his career in Hollywood was born. Now spending some time back in Pittsburgh, Matt shares his tale and what the future holds for him. We discuss the film industry both in Los Angeles and in the 'Burgh, the cost of putting together a film, and why being a snob about coffee is ridiculous.

Before you hear our conversation however, there are a few chats I collected at the 2014 Greater Pittsburgh Art Council's Annual Meeting. Guests to the meeting were treated to performances from 1Hood, including a standout showing from Blak Rapp M.A.D.U.S.A.

The keynote speaker, Roberto Bedoya, (executive director of the Tucson Pima Arts Council, which includes the PLACE Initiative), spoke on the theme of belonging and how art and culture connect us to more than just a place but also to a way of living. I'm happy to say that he didn't pull any punches or speak only on the cheerier topics of art, culture, and bringing people together. Instead, he got right into social justice and the history of what George Lipsitz called "white spatial imaginary," which has actively criminalized non-white, non-Christian culture and ideas in the United States. The audience hung onto his words, specifically when he described Rasquachification:

"The Rasquache spatial imaginary is a composition, a resourceful admixture, a mash-up imagination that, through objects and places, says, I’m here—whether that be New Orleans, East L.A., the Bronx or South Tucson—and I’m part of the many and I walk down these streets with a Rasquache passport that says I belong."
— Roberto Bedoya, "Spatial Justice: Rasquachification, Race and the City"

This hits us hard here in Pittsburgh where it's easy to feel like an outsider. The dominating voice that seems to demand a focus on all things "black and gold," pierogis, and now $15 cocktails just doesn't include everyone.

After Bedoya's speech, Janera Solomon of the Kelly Strayhorn Theater mentions the new hotel being built next door. She explains how very nice the chain is and predicts that the latest building will be equally so—offering free WiFi in an open lobby where people will be encouraged to work on their laptops, even if they are not guests. It's a part of the "revitalization" happening in East Liberty. While a nice invitation, Janera stresses that part of the gesture requires the hotel to create a welcoming atmosphere and is skeptical whether it is possible for everyone in East Liberty and the surrounding neighborhoods to feel that way. She wonders also if the art she makes in her theater can be viewed as a threat to those hypothetical hotel patrons. 

You may ask, why are you going on about this before a chat that seemly has nothing to do with this topic. Well, I'm writing all of this here because we didn't get to it in the soundbites from the meeting or in the chat with Chris, (that was recorded before the meeting in mid-November). I'm writing all of this, because since the GPAC meeting there's been even more evidence in the headlines of why belonging and place-making, place-keeping, and welcoming are important ones. I'm writing this here because if I did this in a separate post with a different headline then you probably wouldn't have clicked on it. I'm writing all of this because I'm still trying to figure out where I belong. Even though on the outside it looks like I should fit right in with the dominating voice I mentioned above, I don't feel that I do.

Chris Boles on the Internet // Other links

• redfishbowl.com
• durty1.com
• The Night Gallery
• Runaway Studios Pgh
• Decaffeinated Grapefruit

Audra Azoury makes A TON OF THINGS. I used caps there in order to truly illustrate how many different items she actually produces. Just leafing though the new catalog she has carefully crafted it is clear that while she has a specific aesthetic, she has applied across a diverse collection of jewelry that appeals to a large audience. It's easy to see why she's popular!

During this chat we talk about her growth, the positive aspects and the challenges, as well as her inspirations and her entrepreneurial roots. She will be at Handmade Arcade as well as in the Christmas Market in Market Square this holiday season but you can also purchase her work on her website and in stores around Pittsburgh, (like Wildcard on Butler Street)!

Audra Azoury on the Internet

• audraazoury.com
• Audra Azoury on Facebook

Matt was a film student at NYU and lived in Brooklyn for many year before coming to Pittsburgh. His interest in Pittsburgh history came from reading about Andrew Carnegie. Regardless how you feel about the robber baron, his influence on Pittsburgh at that time reveals a lot more interesting stories from Pittsburgh's past. Since 2011, Alternate Histories has turned historical illustrations of Pittsburgh and other cities on their head, providing humor and even insight into our past.

We get off topic during this chat as well—just go with it.

Matt Buchholtz on the Internet

• AlternativeHistories.com
• New Alternative Histories fine art series on Tumblr
• Alternative Histories on Facebook
• Alternative Histories on Twitter

Amy Hamley is the sole proprietor of Redraven Studios which features handmade keepsakes including jewelry and housewares. If you're shopped around Pittsburgh then you have seen her work in Pavement, a boutique in Lawrenceville, but as business has grown she has expanded into stores across the county. She mentions in this chat that December 20th is her order cut off date. So, if you're looking at her site and feeling the urge to acquire something beautiful for yourself or a loved one then I suggest you commit quickly! 

In our chat we delve into how Redraven became Amy's full-time focus. Her's, like many other stories in the AP Collection, is a story of evolution and dedication that has brought about the dream of self-employment. 

Amy was extremely generous with her time and shared a lot about herself, her practice, and what the future holds for Redraven. (Look out for a mention about Amy Garbark from Garbella at one point.) It was an extreme privilege to spend time with a woman of her talent!

Redraven Studios on the Internet

• redravenshop.com
• Redraven Studios on Facebook
• Redraven Studios on Instagram

Rebecca Morris and Jennifer Baron are accomplished women in the their own right. Morris owns Wildcard on Butler Street and  Baron is a musician and seasoned crafter—having been an original HA vendor. They have been involved in Handmade Arcade since its early years in Construction Junction and seen it through to its latest and greatest home in the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Downtown Pittsburgh.

It's clear when speaking with them that Handmade Arcade is many things to many people. For ten years, independent artists and crafters have connected with an ever growing audience of consumers, allowing sole proprietors to flourish into brick and mortal retailers. Fine artists have made the transition into building commercial product lines without losing their "art cred." The terms "homemade" and "craft" are now chic with an air of rarity. The opportunity to connect with the person that created the item you're purchasing is becoming, (thankfully) more commonplace and expected. Consumers are increasingly more knowledgable about the products they are buying and aware that the money they are spending goes back into the community in which they live and work.

Handmade Arcade isn't just a place to shop. It's a place to connect with, support, and participate in Pittsburgh's creative community. In this chat we discuss the vendors—new and old—as well as the Hands-On Handmade events happening throughout the day. As Jennifer mentions, these activities aren't "busy work" crafts but real opportunities to make works of art, including a chance to be a part of the latest yarn bomb being led by the Fiberart's Build of Pittsburgh, (you know, the Knit the Bridge peeps). 

Enjoy this chat, then get an Early Birdie Ticket!

Warning to all non-history-buff types: you're gonna want to prepare yourself for a conversation featuring chat about Philadelphia and all the cool/nerdy/historical shit you can do there. Allison  is from Center City so just know I'm gonna talk about the Mint, why I cried at the Mint that one time, Ben Franklin's grave, and various other Philly topics.

Don't fret, we get into the art talk very quickly—delving into this handsome couple's work dynamic and how they shaped strawberryluna into one of Pittsburgh's premier printmaking and design studios. Initially working out of Artists Image Resource, (one of a few printers I've me that have utilized AIR's weekly open studio hours), they now have a space in their own home devoted to the creation of posters, t-shirts, and prints for clients ranging from local to international. 

Be sure to check them out December 6th at Handmade Arcade!

strawberryluna on the Internet

• strawberryluna.com
• @stawberryluna on Twitter
• @strawberryluna on Instagram
• strawberryluna on Facebook
• strawberryluna on Pinterest

Kim Fox is the force behind Worker Bird describing her process as "hardcore quilting". She searches through estate sales and graciously accepts donations of decorative tins for materials. You will hear how she's developed the keenest eye for what tableaus will yield the best pieces for her handmade puzzles. "98 percent of tins are Christmas themed," she says and my mind goes to the one I have in a closet, ready to hand over to her, with a snowman on it. So many others have nutritional information and ingredients listed on the side and that's not useful when looking for a piece big enough to carve out the silhouette of Texas.

During our talk we wander through her history as a printmaker, into the design world, and on to her own establishment as Worker Bird. Each artist I've met that has forged out on their own, leaving behind their day job, has a strikingly similar mind set. In the way that an alcoholic needs to hit rock bottom, the artist gets to the point where staying at the day job has interfered with their daily art like enough and they need to come to terms with the fact that they must make the leap. Kim relays the story of how she and her husband decided to go after their passions and turn them into their day job. I'm constantly inspired by each person I meet for this project and Kim was no different.

Kim Fox on the Internet

• workerbird.com
• @workerbird on Instagram
• @theworkerbird on Twitter
• Worker Bird on Facebook

In his chat with Genevieve, Jeff describes his jump back into art making, beginning with an alphabet book for his niece, and leading up to today, where he currently creates work at night and on weekends, attending shows, festivals, and arcades to display it. His next appearance will be at this year's Handmade Arcade, December 6th at the David H Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh. Jeff and Genevieve also touch on support, process, and the culture around art festivals.

In addition to Handmade Arcade, you can also find Jeff and Hey Beast's work at G Squared Gallery in Ligonier this Friday, and the Mattress Factory's Winter Art Market on December 13th. 

Jeff on the Internet

• Visit Jeff's website heybeast.com
• Follow @heybeast12 on Twitter
• Follow @heybeast12 on Instagram
• Learn about Handmade Arcade

I find everyone I talk to inspirational in a way but Mr. Wong and I definitely share a similar wavelength. We're both figuring things out and working hard to keep moving forward in our respective art careers. Don't be surprised if you see a lot more of him around Pittsburgh and beyond. In this chat, we talk about his current work up at Delanie's in the South Side as a part of Double Mirror #4, the past and varied portfolio he has produced, and what the future holds. We also touch on a bunch of random other topics that of course are engaging and delightful. Enjoy!

Jordan Wong on the Internet

Check out his portfolio, sign up for his newsletter, and get up to date information about new work at wongface.com

Billie passed away eight years ago and since then Jami has held an event to celebrate her mother's life and greatest ambition—to bring together friends and family around food. Every year, Luvfest collects cash donations to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank while participants enjoy food, beverage, live entertainment, and great company.

This year LuvFest is Novemeber 14th starting at 7PM and is being held at the ToonSeum (945 Liberty Avenue) in Downtown Pittsburgh. Even if you have never met Billie Marlowe you can still get behind what she stood for—feeding people who need it most. During our conversation Jami shares stories about her mother and explains how former guest and forever friend of The AP Collection, Marcel Walker, has been adopted by her family.

Get all the info you need about the upcoming events including tickets, times, and places below!

Ziggy Sawdust // Eco Art Pgh

• Tickets for Eco Art PGH
• Info on NakYouOut about Eco Art Pgh

Jami Marlowe // Luvfest

• Facebook Event page
• Like on Facebook

This chat between Duane and Genevieve gets extremely NSFW but is also full of anecdotes and life lessons that becomes a whirlwind of laughter and insight. Even though they only talked for thirty minutes, there is plenty of points in the conversation that spark further investigation. 

Be sure to check out the various events being held by the museum throughout the exhibition's time in Pittsburgh. And a big thank you goes out to the Carnegie Museum of Art for the extraordinary opportunity to sit down with Michals.

Duane on the Internet

• Read about Duane's exhibition at Carnegie Museum of Art
• Gallery DC Moore's Artist Page for Duane Michals

Krish came by the Carnegie Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped to tell us more about the event and update us on his career and projects since his first visit. In addition to a glimpse of the comedy scene in Pittsburgh, Genevieve and Krish go over finer details of coffee and awkward sex talks with parents. After you're done laughing at this chat, check out Krish's projects online and buy tickets to his show after Black Friday. 

Krish on the Internet

• Follow @KrishMohanHaha on Twitter
• Like Krish Mohan on Facebook
• Visit Krish's website, ramannoodlescomedy.com
• Secondhand Sketch Show on Facebook
• Buy tickets for Secondhand Sketch Show on Showclix
• Visit the website for the Arcade Comedy Theater

Throughout his discussion with Genevieve, Brandon talks about his process, the benefits of producing through small businesses, new fabrics like bamboo, and the influence of being in Pittsburgh. They also explore the pitfalls of oversharing and the constant, meticulously curated profiles we are bombarded with on a daily basis and how the DeadBuryDead brand is a voice of a different pitch. 

Deadburydead's new line launches next Wednesday November 5th and will be in outlets nationwide on November 10th.

Find Brandon on the Internet

• Visit Deadburydead.com
• Like DeadBuryDead on Facebook
• Follow @DeadBuryDead on Twitter
• Follow @DeadBuryDead on Instagram
• Visit Steelcitycottonworks.com
• Follow @SteelCityCotton on Twitter
• Like Steel City Cotton Works on Facebook

Genevieve and Jonny talk about the core goal of being a writer, teaching, prison reform and the problems with the current prison system. Jonny also mentions the people, programs and experiences that fostered his current passion of prison reform. They both ask the crucial questions that are at the center of the issue and discuss the various pitfalls and triumphs of reform work.

If you are interested in becoming involved with the various programs Jonny is a part of, email him at Blenvis609@gmail.com

Jonny on the Internet

• Email Jonny at Blenvis609@gmail.com
• Visit the website for Words Without Walls
• Visit the website for the Appalachian Prison Book Project
• Follow APBP on Twitter at @APBP_Morgantown
• Visit the website for the Education Justice Project

This is what Doug is capable of—bringing a bunch of people together and creating a wonderful vibe to create work in. After his visit I've been more focused on gathering more creative people to just stop by, hang out, and make things.

Listen to us chat about his life growing up in the Pittsburgh area, jumping into a career in lighting and sound design, literally running off with the best circus around (Cirque-Du Soleil), and get as fucking pumped as I did listening to Doug talk about grabbing life by the balls. 

He's got a show coming up in December—the last at the Garfield Artworks on Penn Avenue. December 4th is the VIP opening, (stay tuned for more details), and December 5th is the First Friday opening for the general public. Come out, say hello, then buy some artwork!

Douglas Duerring on the Internet

• duerringphoto.com (NSFW)
• Like Duerring Photo on the Facebook!
• Follow @duerringphoto on Twitter
• Follow @duerringphoto on Instagram
• Follow @photograph on Ello

You can find Ruth every Wednesday at Allegheny Wine Mixer's Fondue Night from 5 pm to midnight. Also, if you're interested in experiencing Ruth's expertise, whether for pastries, a cake, or a cookie table, you can email her at rueyb01@gmail.com

The best resource to dive into Julie's work is her website at www.juliesokolow.com. There you can find her current and past projects like Healthy Artists and Aspie Seeks Love, as well as her previous endeavors. 

This chat was recorded at the wonderful facilities at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh branch for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. The AP Collection is extremely lucky to have access to such a great resource. If you'd like to talk to Genevieve there, check out the about page.

— Tim Goodier

Julie on the Intnernet

• Visit juliesokolow.com 
• Follow @juliesokolow on Twitter
• Follow @julie.sokolow on Instagram
• Julie Sokolow on Tumblr
• Website for Aspie Seeks Love
• Follow @AspieSeeksLove on Twitter
• Website for Healthy Artists 

To fully understand where he has been and where he is going, it's best to hear it in his own words. Josh's talk with Genevieve uncovers his personal history and pieces together the events, jobs, and mentors that positions him towards his current goal while informing a discussion on employment after conviction. 

Sean and Genevieve discuss the role of art in everyday life, regardless of whether you are aware of it. The importance of putting art out for people to see in both traditional and unique ways is a major part of Studio AM's philosophy and Sean's personal view. Follow Sean and Studio AM to see where in Pittsburgh you can find their work.

— Tim Goodier

Sean Beauford on the Internet

• Visit studio-am.com 
• Follow @StudioAMpgh on Twitter
• Follow @seanbeauford on Twitter
• Follow @seanbeauford on Instagram

Below is a little PSA from our fair mayor about the Arts Day of Giving and why you should participate!

This year, the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council created the Unleashed! Arts Fund in which five members of GPAC were randomly selected to receive donations directly. The AP Collection had the fantastic opportunity to sit down with this year's recipients in order to learn a little more about them before ArtsDOG takes place. Jennifer Saffron from GPAC introduces the concept behind the Unleashed! Artist Fund along with some history of ArtDOG. Then, each artist sat down with Genevieve to tell their story, their personal art history and their plans for the imminent funding. Even though the conversations last between 10 and 20 minutes, their passion, creativity, and knowledge are immediately apparent.

Once you've listened to the conversations, get to know each artist better by visiting their profile on the Pittsburgh Artist Registry and visiting their website. You can help fund their work directly by donating to the Unleashed! Artists Fund on October 2nd from 6 AM to Midnight during GPAC's Arts Day Of Giving.

This Year's Five Artists

• Shaunda Miles on the Pittsburgh Artist Registry — Her website
• Sherri Roberts on the Pittsburgh Artist Registry— Her website
• Mike McSorley on the Pittsburgh Artist Registry— His website
• Brian Sesack on the Pittsburgh Artist Registry— His website
• Lorraine Vullo on the Pittsburgh Artist Registry; Silver Eye Center for Photography's website

Make sure to check out his links below—he does so much cool stuff! 

Marcel Walker on the Internet

• @MarcelWalker1 on Twitter
• Listing on the Pittsburgh Artist Registry
• marcelwalker.com

The band has an EP release party later tonight (9/19) at Ava Lounge around 6:30pm. If you catch this after the launch, check out Ferdinand the Bull at other appearances on their site.

Ferdinand the Bull on the Internet

• Like Ferdinand the Bull on Facebook
• Follow @FerdinandPitt on Twitter
• Book Ferdinand the Bull via email 

Before my chat with Chance is a little discussion with Dave Kaule about all the rad things he has coming up including another Monster Trike Night and Project 50/50's five year anniversary at Belvedere's on Friday, September 19th!

Chance! Brown on the Internet

• Knuckledraggery.tumblr.com
• @chance_second on Twitter and Instagram

Internet Links and Things!

• Pixels of Fury
• Creative Briefs
• John DeGore 
• Anastatia Lanz on Twitter

Hopefully moving forward Liana and I can record some more conversations and get more into the myriad topics we discuss. Enjoy this chat and hopefully it gets you thinking. Below is the clip of 20 deleted minutes!

Liana Maneese on the Internet

Read these article about Liana:

• PopCity "Four young female entrepreneurs building networks in Pittsburgh"
• Bio on Bricolage website for her guest speaker spot: Social Activism: Who Will Carry the Torch? Scroll down a bit, it's in the middle of the site.

IDK Magazine on the Internet

• The official website: idkmagazine.com
• The guidelines for contributions: idkmagazine.com/submit
• Follow on Twitter @IDK_Magazine & like on Facebook

Individual Twitter accounts:

• Dakota Garilli / @dakoter818
• Kinsley Stocum / @kinsley17

The chat also runs through some of the financial side of the art world as well. From comparing printmaking and painting to the potential aphrodisiac qualities of collecting, you can hear multiple topics that go beyond the actual art making and more of the art market. 

Taking place at the Hollywood Theater in Dormont on October 17th, learn about this unique environment that combines art, drink, flicks, and food into one night for charity. 

Tickets go on sale next week! Starting Monday September 15th at 10 AM

— Tim Goodier

Steel City Secret Cinema on the Internet

• Website: Steel City Secret Cinema
• Follow @SteelCityCinema on Twitter
• Like Steel City Secret Cinema on Facebook
• Follow @HwoodTheater on Twitter
• Like Hollywood Theater Dormont on Facebook

Seth Storck on the Internet

• Website: Seth Storck
• Google his name Seth Storck
• Like Seth Storck on Facebook 
• Follow @sethestorck on Twitter
• Follow @oldhands on Instagram

We were the only art majors on our floor and I felt at the time that was pretty lucky considering how small the art school was and how diverse the housing situation was for incoming freshmen that year, (most kids at CMU are not in the College of Fine Arts and the large amount of freshman that year left some students sleeping in the lounge areas of dormitories). We were friendly in college but never extremely close and both graduated in 2007.

Since our time at CMU we both took up residence in Pittsburgh. She focused on building a strong and successful career as a practicing artist using blood, sweat, and a ton of unbridled talent to explore her different interests including the Free Painting Project and music via The Power Hour shows.

I was burnt out on academia and disillusioned about what the art world had in store. I felt determined to define what, if any, art practice I wanted to build for myself. Running around Pittsburgh and other parts of the country for a few years, I tried out every possible other avenue of interest before rediscovering my only real love was for oil paint and talking to artists.

This whole time, we never really hung out, even though she lived about a 30 minute bus ride away. When I heard she might be moving to Los Angeles, I realized I had to schedule a chat and just catch up. This is that chat.

Ali on the Internet

• Website: alispagnola.com
• Like Ali Spagnola on Facebook
• Watch AliSpags on YouTube
• Follow @alispagnola on Twitter
• Follow @alispagnola on Instagr am
• Check out Ali's Free Paintings

Of course, during this recording there were two weird audio issues but they get resolved so keep your pants on! I hope that by me talking about my insecurities and being transparent about how the sausage is made will prove helpful to others. Enjoy.

Tim & I on the Internet

• @strikeforcetim on Twitter
• @apcollector on Twitter
• @strikeforcetim on Instragram
• @theapcollection on Instagram

After beginning outside of Pittsburgh, heading briefly to Arizona and returning to Pittsburgh, you can find 2020k DJing WYEP's weekly Block Party on Wednesday nights from 8PM-12AM, which will provide the perfect atmosphere for whatever fills your night. RJ is also working hard on creating more music and perfecting his live show. After this chat, be sure to find more from 2020k in whatever avenue you please, because there is certainly no shortage of places to find him.

— Tim Goodier

2020k on the Internet

• Website: twenty20k.com
• Read 2020k on his blog
• Follow @Twenty20k on Twitter
• Follow 2020k on Tumblr
• Listen to 2020k on Bandcamp

— Jennifer Huang

Myron on the Internet

• None!

This was a super fun chat, and if you love anything zombie or pop culture, you will love this. Make sure to stop by House of the Dead if you are ever in Lawrenceville – it is definitely a sight to see!

– Jennifer Huang

Chuck Cramer on the Internet

• Website: http://www.houseofthedeadpgh.com/
• Follow @pghhouseofdead on Twitter
• Like House of the Dead on Facebook

(1) Deal with the fact that the mic check was integrated into the chat

(2) Cats are a part of my life

(3) The first round of my chat with Dave Watt got lost due to the fact that GarageBand is particular about how the file is saved. Honestly, it was a blessing in disguise because the second round was way more relaxed and we both had a >much< better time. We knew each other a little better and a flow to our banter was found. In fact, I might reschedule my chats to include the updates and AP Collection After Dark talk so that the person I talk to is there when it's recorded. 

Enought with the numbering of things

As a matter of fact I am heartbroken that the mic got turned off because the conversation afterwards was worth throwing out into the Internet as well—you will have to live knowing that you will never hear it.

Enjoy what you get.

Dave Watt on the Internet

• Follow @davewattrules on Twitter
• Follow Dave Watt on Tumblr
• Check out his show at Remedy (5121 Butler Street) beginning on Friday, September 5th‚—up for the month

Chutz Pow! is having a Comic Launch Party at the Toonseum Thursday, August 14 from 8-11 PM. It will be a fun event and ya'll should go out and support the Toonseum, the Holocaust Center, and these artists, who are all doing a great thing in honoring these survivors and fighters.

Marcel and Wayne on the Internet

• Chutz Pow! Superheroes of the Holocaust
• Follow @wayne_wise on Twitter
• Follow @MarcelWalker1 on Twitter
• http://www.wayne-wise.com/
• http://www.marcelwalker.com/

Before our chat, Tim Goodier and I talk about the latest updates with the site. Enjoy!

Kim Lyons on the Internet

• Follow @SocialKimLy on Twitter
• All you need to know about Lyft, Uber, and ride sharing in Pittsburgh (the video interview of Bill Peduto in a Lyft car is here and it's fucking GREAT)
• Email: klyons@post-gazette.com

Toby on the Internet

• Follow @theanalogdivide on Twitter

Photos taken from Pop City Media.

When I got to unfurl the three feet wide and eight feet tall piece of paper, (you'll hear this in the chat,) I was blown away by a large portrait of a tall grey chair in a plain room with green wooden floorboards. The picture I took on my iPhone below does this painting little justice but know that it's a gorgeous piece. Up close you can see his confident and thoughtful marks, both in pencil and paint. It drips in all the right places and while colorful it's also quiet and stoic. The piece really is portrait of a chair—sort of, (more on that in the conversation).

After wrapping up our recording session, we talked about "the hustle" a bit—about shopping work to galleries and what places we liked and which we weren't crazy about. I realized that it'd been a minute since I talked with a more traditional fine artist, (don't jump my ass about this statement I don't mean that in a derogatory sense. I mean that it's been a while since I had a practicing artist who's focus is paintings and sculpture for display in a gallery).

Ross is a thoughtful and soulful creator who embodies the saying, "Still waters run deep". While reserved, he's very engaging and I really enjoyed our time together. Y'all will as well.

Ross Hardy on the Internet

• @rosshardyart on Instagram

I quickly got the sense that each piece in this show sparks conversation about what it means to other and be othered. We focus in on one piece in particular with a solitary blue figure wearing a crown and defiantly applying makeup all while successfully ignoring a rampage happening on every side of her. Sam points out the person is male and in drag and we begin discussing the politics and preferences of pronouns. Each piece has a conversation like this within it but no answers—and Sam isn't about to dole out any either. It's about the viewers perspective. 

US v THEM will be up on the walls of Remedy starting Friday, August 1st and goes through until the end of the month. Be sure to stop by and check out Sam's always outstanding work—hopefully the pictures of her concept drawings will tide you over until Friday!

Sam Thorp on the Internet

• Follow @sam_thor on Twitter
• Keep up to date on her work an upcoming shows at graphicanatomy.com

Concept Drawing for US vs THEM

On Friday, July 25th, I put some paintings up on the walls of 720 Music, Clothing, and Cafe, bought some wine and snacks, and invited a bunch of people to come hang out and look at my pictures. (It went really well and I even sold some things!) The show, titled Character of the Living, is up until August 15th when there will be a closing reception from 7–9PM. The title refers to the arguably non-cohesive nature of my work. When I started The AP Collection I had reached a point in my life where I wasn't making anything I liked and I wasn't sure if I ever would create again. After collecting the first round of interviews I thought I was going to start writing about my experiences and focus entirely on the interviews and writing about Pittsburgh. I realized within three months that I am just not a writer. Soon, I found myself setting up a studio in the third floor of our house. What came next were paintings of the stories I had been told during chats and I began to ask interviewees if I could paint their portraits. I challenged myself to paint scenes I had never tackled before, (the horse in the Fat Sally painting is the second attempt). The portraits felt like coming home, (I've been a figure drawing student since I was 15 years old,) while the more abstract scenes where pure torture to finish. When I stood back and took everything in though, I realized that the attitude in just about every painting was the same. The images are all eager to reach out and tell a story.

During the reception I had no intention of standing around and watching people look at my paintings and I didn't want to try and explain them. Instead I set my laptop up in the back of the cafe space and asked people to play a friendly game of "Truth or Dare". If they said truth then they had to give me some information about themselves that what honest. If they chose dare then they had to draw something for me. The audio from that night is available here for your enjoyment. Listen as almost thirty different people told me something true about themselves. I normally ask a lot of questions but this time I wanted to put people on the spot and get them to come up with something random on their own...

Thank you to 720 Music, Clothing, and Cafe for being a supportive and delightful host. Thank you to everyone that came out and said hello—whether you know it or not it means the world to me that you took the time to pop by! Again: The show is up until August 15th when there will be a closing reception from 7–9PM. 

—GB

Alex on the Internet

• The Blog: http://everybodylovesyou.net/
• Follow @AlexanderFIV on Twitter

John Arrigo-Nelson on the Internet

• Follow @oooojoooo on Twitter
• Website: www.arrigomusic.com
• Alia Musica: www.alia-musica.org
• Follow @AliaMusicaPgh on Twitter