We Are Artists

Hosted by Bring Me 2 Life Network

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Mar 2026

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About the show

Hosted by Shannon Shine, We Are Artists is a heart-centered podcast that celebrates creative souls from around the world. Each episode features inspiring conversations with artists of all mediums — from painters and tattooists to musicians, makers, and multidimensional creators. Shannon explores each artist’s unique journey, diving into their favorite materials, creative processes, tips and tricks, and the personal stories behind their artwork. Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, this podcast offers both inspiration and insight to support your creative path. ✨ Co-hosted by members of the Bring Me 2 Life Network, you'll also discover uplifting conversations and content designed to help you shine — both in your art and your life. 🎧 Tune in while you're working in the studio, walking in nature, or seeking a spark of creative connection — you're bound to learn something new and inspiring. 🎨 Are You an Artist Who Wants to Be Featured? We’d love to hear from you! Please send a portfolio and short bio to: 📩 projectbringme2life@gmail.com Or reach out to Shannon Shine directly via Instagram: @Shannonshine.official | @Bring.me.2.life.network | @Weareartists_podcast 🌐 Learn more about Shannon and explore her art at: https://shannonshineart.com

Listen to episodes

36 recent

March 6, 202645 min

Gateway to Galleries: How Artists Actually Get Gallery Representation - with Guest Sonya Sparks

In this episode of the We Are Artists podcast, Shannon sits down with Sonya Sparks, founder of the Gateway to Galleries program and owner of Sparks Gallery, to explore what it really takes for artists to break into the gallery world. Sonya shares her journey from artist to gallery owner and educator, and the insights she’s gained from years of working with artists and curators inside the professional art market. Together, Shannon and Sonya dive into the realities of gallery representation, the biggest mistakes artists make when approaching galleries, and the strategies that can help artists position themselves for success. Throughout the conversation, Sonya explains how her Gateway to Galleries program helps artists develop stronger portfolios, craft professional submissions, and build the confidence and systems needed to approach galleries in a thoughtful and strategic way. If you’ve ever wondered how galleries actually discover artists, what curators are really looking for, or how to move your art career into the next level of professionalism, this episode offers practical insights, honest advice, and encouragement for artists navigating the business side of creativity. Whether you're an emerging artist looking for your first gallery opportunity or a seasoned creative hoping to expand your reach, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on building a sustainable and empowered art career.Sign Up with Shannon as a reference at this link: https://www.gatewaytogalleries.com/a/2148118593/4XRzuNQy Use Code: SHANNON

December 4, 20251 hr 15 min

Creating with Purpose, Sharing Important Stories and Embracing Artistic Power with Michael Carini

On this episode of the We Are Artists Podcast, host Shannon Shine is joined once again by abstract artist and creative advocate Michael Carini for a heartfelt, honest, and empowering conversation. Michael shares how he’s turned personal grief and life experience into creative fuel — not just to express emotion, but to connect, advocate, and inspire. Together, Shannon and Michael explore what it truly means to use your art as a platform — to speak truth, to build connection, and to empower both the artist and the audience.🎧 In This Episode, We Dive Into:How grief and personal loss shaped Michael’s art and deepened his sense of purpose — including the recent loss of a close friendWhen it’s okay to work for free, and how to discern whether an opportunity truly supports your long-term creative visionThe importance of self-promotion and learning to be your own advocate as an artist in an evolving industryGalleries vs. going solo — the risks, rewards, and how to align your work with spaces that match your energyMental health and artistic expression — how art can be a lifeline for those navigating dark or difficult emotions📲 Follow Michael Carini: @acrylicalchemy | cariniarts.com🎨 Hosted by Shannon Shine: shannonshineart.com | @shannonshine.official

November 19, 20251 hr 5 min

Excavations of the Soul: Visionary Art, Emotion, and Installation with Amy Funderburk

In this powerful episode of We Are Artists, host Shannon Shine sits down with Amy Funderburk, a visionary artist known for her emotionally rich painting installations and explorations of the spiritual and emotional realms through art. Together, we explore:The intense creative and emotional labor behind large-scale installationsHer latest projects Excavations and The Portal, both supported by North Carolina arts councils and driven by themes of emotional archeology and transformationThe process of revisiting and revising older works, and why not dating your art can give it new lifeThe evolving journey of visionary art, and how Amy blends 2D and 3D experiences to bridge the physical with the fluidThoughts on longevity in creative careers and making space for deeply emotional bodies of work to unfold over timeAmy’s art invites us to step into the threshold between worlds — the tangible and the unseen, the personal and the collective, the wounded and the transformed. 🎧 Listen now: [Insert Spotify or podcast link]🌐 Visit Amy’s website: www.AmyFunderburkArtist.com

November 13, 20251 hr 4 min

Mediums, Momentum & Inspiration with Chaz Heiber

In this vibrant and down-to-earth episode of the We Are Artists Podcast, host Shannon Shine sits down with multidisciplinary artist Chaz Heiber to talk about the beauty of creating — not just alone, but together. Chaz shares his experience working across different mediums, with a special love for pastels, and reflects on how much inspiration he finds through collaborative spaces, music festivals, and live art events. Whether painting alongside friends or vibing with the creative energy of a festival crowd, his process is all about connection, expression, and staying inspired. Together, they explore:Making time to create art in a busy lifeThe joy of sharing space with other creatorsHow community events and gatherings fuel artistic momentumSome of Chaz’s favorite pieces and personal artistic milestonesTips for staying grounded and expressive using accessible materials like pastelsThis episode is a celebration of creative community — a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be solitary. Sometimes the most meaningful pieces are born in the company of others, with music playing, ideas flowing, and hearts open.

November 12, 20251 hr 18 min

Anya Amador on Artist Professionalism, Murals, and Empowered Artistry

Episode Highlight – Anya Amador on Professionalism, Murals, and Empowered ArtistryThis Episode on We Are Artists, we had the immense pleasure of interviewing Anya Amador—a powerhouse muralist, educator, and co-founder of Art in Session, a creative resource hub helping artists build their careers with confidence.🎨 Professionalism in PracticeAnya shared a wealth of real-world insight about what it means to take yourself seriously as an artist. From showing up on time to knowing your rates and boundaries, she emphasized how professionalism isn't about “selling out”—it’s about honoring your craft, building trust, and making a sustainable life from your art.She offered tips on:The three must-have materials every artist should bring to eventsWhy signage and display matter more than you thinkHow to present your work so that people understand who you are at a glance“If someone lands on your Instagram and can’t tell what you do in 30 seconds, they’re probably going to move on.”📱 Your Instagram = Your PortfolioWe dug deep into the role of social media in today’s art world. Anya shares why your Instagram should be curated like a portfolio—and not just a scrapbook of your personal life. Potential clients, galleries, and collaborators are often making decisions based on your feed alone. So clarity, consistency, and professionalism are key.🤝 The Power of Collaboration & Following UpFrom mural collabs to co-creating platforms like Art in Session, Anya spoke about how working with others has expanded her opportunities and audience. But she also reminded us: Collaboration doesn’t replace follow-through. Reaching out, following up, and building relationships are essential for turning opportunities into action.🎨 Murals, Magic, and Personal MissionWe also talked about murals and how transformative public art can be. For Anya, large-scale work is not only fun—it’s deeply fulfilling. She shares stories of her own journey, her inspirations, and what she hopes to see more of in the evolving art world: equity, access, and empowered self-expression.📌 Listen now on your favorite podcast app and visit AnyaAmador.com🎧 Listen now and let it move you.🔗 -> SPOTIFY <- https://open.spotify.com/show/7kDor1rPUMmLMvDzLYXIEu?si=5de81300f1bc4121📲 Follow Ania https://www.facebook.com/AniaAmadorArthttps://www.instagram.com/aniaamador/https://www.instagram.com/deliberatecreation/?hl=enhttps://aniaamador.com/📲 Follow The Host Shannon Shine:@ShannonShine.official - Instagram@ShantasticShine - TikTok 📲 Follow The Network:@BringMe2LifeOfficial - Instagram@Bring Me 2 Life Network - Facebook Community Facebook Group! -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/bringme2lifecommunity/

November 5, 20251 hr 3 min

Acrylic Alchemy and Art for Healing with Michael Carini

In this emotional and empowering episode, Shannon Shine sits down with abstract painter and creative force Michael Carini, best known for his powerful colorful artwork and inspiring reminders to keep going as an artist.Michael’s work fuses vibrant abstraction with deep emotional resonance… inviting viewers into a journey of transformation, vulnerability, and healing.Together, they explore:The impact of losing both parents and how grief reshaped his artistic pathThe power of daily discipline and creative motivationWhy safe spaces for artists are crucial in today’s worldArt as a tool for mental health, expression, and survivalHis passion for building community through connection, storytelling, and shared experienceWhether you’re an artist, a healer, or someone seeking creative connection, this episode is a reminder that art is more than a product — it’s a process, a purpose, and sometimes, a lifeline.🎧 Listen now and let this story move you.📲 Follow Michael: https://www.instagram.com/acrylicalchemy/?hl=enWebsite: https://cariniarts.com/pages/about

October 29, 202546 min

Art, Grief, and Finding Joy Again with Fierce Sonia

In this powerful and intimate episode, I sit down with multidisciplinary artist Fierce Sonia to explore the intersection of creativity, grief, and rediscovered joy. 🌿 Together, we reflect on her current projects — from curating community sketchbook shows and hosting mixed media labs to preparing for local markets and connecting deeply with subscribers through zines and art mail. She opens up about the recent loss of her mother and how that experience has reshaped her relationship with art, rest, and joy. Through vulnerability, creative ritual, and community support, she’s navigating what it means to keep creating while healing. We also dive into:Monthly sketchbook meetups and the power of micro-lessonsAttending a women’s songwriting retreat in VirginiaThe gentle magic of Muse Zoom sessions and creative breathing spaceSaying yes to slowness, reflection, and inspirationThis episode is a gentle reminder that creativity can hold space for both sorrow and celebration. ✨ 🎧 Listen now and let it move you.📲 Follow https://www.instagram.com/fiercesonia/Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/fierce.sonia.2022

October 1, 20251 hr 2 min

Dreamlike Design & Artistic Evolution with Josh Audiss

In this episode, I sit down with visionary artist and designer Josh Audiss, whose work gracefully bridges the worlds of fine art, murals, apparel design, and immersive installations.We dive into Josh’s artistic evolution — from his early roots in Omaha, Nebraska, to his cross-medium explorations in acrylic, oil, graphic art, and decorative design. His art dances between Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Surrealism, creating rich, dreamlike experiences filled with balance, mystery, and hidden symbolism.Josh shares stories from over a decade in the festival circuit, including his stunning murals and walk-in installations. Shannon and Josh share memories made at Secret Dreams Festival, and reflect on how live art settings continue to inspire new creative directions. We also explore his innovative work on the Benson Theatre restoration, the integration of laser and CNC technology into his decorative work, and the joy of seeing his designs come to life through Curbside Clothing. you're a painter, performer, designer, or dreamer, this episode is filled with insights on creative sustainability, artistic experimentation, and how to keep your spark alive across changing mediums and environments.🎧 Listen now for a journey into the surreal, sacred, and playful corners of one artist’s path.🔗 [Insert link]📲 Follow Josh:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100060740651922Website : https://www.joshaudissart.com/ 📲 Follow The Host Shannon Shine:@ShannonShine.official - Instagram@ShantasticShine - TikTok

September 24, 202541 min

Mixed Media, Transformations & Festival Adventures with Calypso

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with the luminous multidisciplinary artist and tattooist Calypso, whose work bridges fine art, tattooing, performance painting, and product creation. 🌈 We dive into her unique creative process, from how nature, music, and personal transformation guide her hand, to the way she weaves symbolism, bold color, and emotional storytelling into everything she creates — whether it’s a large canvas, a wearable piece, or an immersive workshop. Calypso shares her experience as a festival artist and workshop facilitator, and how being in community spaces fuels her inspiration and allows her to hold space for others to express themselves. She opens up about her love for using resourced materials, crystals, chakra themes, and how she brings intention to every layer of her work. This conversation is full of creative wisdom, grounded spirituality, and pure artistic passion. If you’ve ever felt called to mix mediums, deepen your message, or share your art in more interactive ways, you won’t want to miss this one. ✨📲 Follow Calypso: @calypso_the_artist#WeAreArtistsPodcast #ArtistInterview #VisionaryArt #TattooArtist #PerformancePainter #CreativeHealing

September 17, 202537 min

Getting Back Into Creative Action with Shannon Shine and Selomon

Shannon shares a heartfelt update on what she’s been up to as a multidisciplinary artist. From large-scale paintings to intuitive jewelry-making, she reflects on how her style has developed over time and which supplies she’s loving most right now. We also talk about some of her recent favorite art pieces that found their forever homes, and how that exchange of creative energy keeps her inspired. She also gets real about juggling multiple creative passions—balancing painting, jewelry, sessions, and storytelling. Is she still offering spiritual guidance and healing sessions? Yes, but with more discernment and intention. She even drops some hints about a new book in the works that will explore creativity, healing, and emotional resilience. Looking ahead, Shannon shares her dreams for the future: more meaningful art, more heartfelt connections, and more opportunities to shine. 📚 Selomon’s Path of Purpose Meanwhile, Selomon opens up about his return to school and what it’s been like diving deeper into the world of computer science. But don’t worry—he’s still very much connected to his roots in healing and creativity. He shares how meditation and intentional practice continue to play a role in his life, even if he’s not putting out as many public recordings. Plus, we explore exciting future plans for the Bring Me 2 Life Network and what’s next for Selomon’s personal evolution. This episode is both a check-in and a celebration of growth. It's about honoring the seasons we move through as artists, healers, and humans—giving ourselves space to evolve while staying true to our creative cores.