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 hear how real artists actually make it work?
noseyAF is the show where we skip the glossy bios and get into the messy, creative, human parts of building a life in the arts.

I’m Stephanie Graham, an artist, filmmaker, and professionally nosy person, and every episode I talk with working artists, filmmakers, organizers, and culture-shifters about what’s really behind their projects: the decisions, the doubts, the money stuff, the pivots, and the “how do you keep going?” moments.

No hustle propaganda. No gatekeeping. No pretending it’s easy.
Just honest, energizing conversations that fuel your creative life and remind you you’re not alone.

If you’re an artist, curator, cultural worker, or just someone who loves peeking behind the curtain, noseyAF gives you real talk, practical ideas, and the creative spark you didn’t know you needed.
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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.