Episode 37

Pioneering Women, Paintings, and Prairies with Susannah Papish and Melissa Potter

Published on: 12th September, 2023

Welcome back to another episode of noseyAF! Episode 37!!

I am still keeping the series going with the "On the Rock" series!


In this engaging episode, artists Melissa Potter and Susannah Papish are two incredible women I spoke to while I was at my residency in Pouch Cove. In this conversation, I delve into their journeys within the art realm and their collaborative project, "Invisible Labors." Melissa touches upon her unorthodox route into the arts, spurred by her mother's encouragement. At the same time, Susannah recalls her formative experiences at the Art Institute and her deep dive into art history at the University of Illinois Chicago. The heart of their discussion centers on "Invisible Labors," a rich exploration of the women from the Blue Island area, spotlighting their roles in gardening, farming, and community engagements. They also discuss the pressing environmental concern of the vanishing prairies in Illinois and the vital importance of soil health. Dive in to hear two passionate artists discuss their work, inspirations, and the environmental ties that bind their projects.


 


Follow Melissa and Susannah and learn more about their project, "Invisible Labors."


Melissa Potter's Website


Melissa Potter on Instagram: @melissahpotter


Mel's project Feminist Seed Bank


 


Susannah Papish's art space boundary


Follow Susannah and boundary on Instagram: @susannahpapish @boundarychicagospace


Check out Mel and Susannahs Book "Invisible Labors"


 

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About the Podcast

noseyAF: Conversations about Art, Activism, and Social Change
Want to make creative work that actually matters?
On noseyAF, you'll eavesdrop on honest, behind-the-scenes conversations between working artists, filmmakers, and community organizers who are building bold, culture-shifting projects—and sharing exactly how they do it.
I'm Stephanie Graham, a multidisciplinary artist and filmmaker, and these are the conversations I actually want to have: unfiltered talks about creative breakthroughs, activist hustle, messy pivots, and daily practices that make a difference.
Sure, we cover the basics—who they are, what they do, and how they got started—but we also get nosy: How do they make decisions? What keeps them going? How do they pay their bills and stay true to their vision?
Every other week, I share these raw, energizing convos that fuel my own practice—and might just spark something in yours. Whether you're an artist, curator, cultural worker, or someone who loves peeking behind the curtain, you’ll walk away with practical strategies, real talk, and unexpected inspiration.
The best stories live in the details—and the most powerful creativity happens when we get wonderfully nosy about what really drives us.
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About your host

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Stephanie Graham

Hi there! I'm Stephanie, the creative force behind this podcast!
As a curious multi-disciplinary artist, filmmaker, and Real Housewives scholar, I dive into the fascinating world of relationships and subcultures through conversations with artists, activists, and neighbors. I explore their practices while sharing my journey in art, which includes creating films, photos, and installations focusing on race, social class, and subculture.
Outside of my studio practice and podcasting, I also run Graham Cracker Pins, which offers unique pins that reflect my love for creativity. Although my background involves work in TV and film, NDAs limit what I can share about those projects. Nevertheless, when I can, I do! For more of my art, visit missgraham.com or dive into pin heaven at GrahamCrackerPin.co. Join me as I unravel what others are up to with humor and curiosity.