Izzy & Gina in stitches artwork

Izzy & Gina in stitches

68 episodes - English - Latest episode: 9 months ago - ★★★★★ - 7 ratings

Informal conversation about life in general, and art and creativity in particular, with Isobel Moore and Gina Ferrari.

Visual Arts Arts
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

What do we want?

July 27, 2023 09:00 - 33 minutes - 76.5 MB

Gina has just finished two very quiet Open Studios weekends and has now learned that her summer schools won't run this year, leaving her uncertain about the future. Izzy feels a bit flat and uninspired, As usual, she has lots of ideas for things she could do, but not quite enough motivation to pursue any of them! She needs to move forward soon but in which direction? So how do we both decide what to do next? What do we want to do? Mentioned: Jane Brocket Yarnstorm https://yarnstorm.subst...

Midsummer musings (65)

June 29, 2023 09:00 - 34 minutes - 78.4 MB

As we pass midsummer and start thinking about holidays and other summer pursuits we've both found our creativity diverted into other activities. As artists, should we worry? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about life in general, and art and creativity in particular. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors. We both started our creative journey with machine embroidery, an...

Ebbs and Flows (64)

June 15, 2023 09:00 - 29 minutes - 67.5 MB

Do you find that creativity ebbs and flows? In this episode we discuss how we face the challenge of not feeling very creative whilst recognising there will be other times when we have more ideas than we can put into practice. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialis...

Leaving a legacy (63)

June 01, 2023 09:00 - 44 minutes - 101 MB

How would you like to be remembered? As creative people we leave a lot of ‘stuff’ behind us but in this episode we chat about the true legacy we would like to leave rather than just the things we make. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroider...

Are you a perfectionist? (62)

May 18, 2023 09:00 - 36 minutes - 83.6 MB

Do you think of yourself as a perfectionist? In this episode we discuss what perfectionism means to us and whether it can be a good thing or a hindrance. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat ...

Self care (61)

May 04, 2023 09:00 - 53 minutes - 122 MB

What's the first thing we do when it all gets a bit overwhelming - and how else do we take care of ourselves? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with ru...

Deadline Dilemmas (60)

April 20, 2023 09:00 - 54 minutes - 124 MB

This week we have a listener question: "I need to impose my own deadlines to keep me on track. But how do I balance my need for a deadline against my inevitable angst when I can't meet them?" Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’...

Big or small? (59)

April 06, 2023 09:00 - 56 minutes - 128 MB

What's the biggest thing we've made? The smallest? And does size matter, anyway? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope th...

Minefield or manners? (58)

March 23, 2023 10:00 - 47 minutes - 108 MB

How should we respond to critical comments on social media? Can we learn from them? Or is it just good manners to wait to be asked before giving your opinion? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We ...

Where to start if you had to start again? (57)

March 09, 2023 10:00 - 1 hour - 139 MB

What would you do if you lost it all - your creative work, your tools and supplies, your archive...where would you start, to replace it? Would you? This was the knotty question asked by a listener to the podcast! Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machin...

Selling: facing the fear (56)

February 23, 2023 10:00 - 56 minutes - 129 MB

Selling: no matter how much experience we have, it's still a tricky topic. How can we face our fears and feel better about selling? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the cr...

A Brand? Really?! (55)

February 09, 2023 10:00 - 41 minutes - 94.3 MB

Not just for big companies: artists have a brand, too! At its simplest, our brand is the sum of everything we are and do, not just a logo or some pretty colours.  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out!...

Breaking the rules with Jayne Emerson (54)

January 26, 2023 11:00 - 37 minutes - 85.8 MB

From fashion to felt, patchwork to hashtags, and teaching Kirstie Allsopp to needlefelt along the way, Jayne Emerson's journey through art and textiles has taken all kinds of fascinating twists and turns. Join us as we untangle the threads! Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tu...

Limiting beliefs (53)

January 12, 2023 10:00 - 59 minutes - 136 MB

Do you want to reach for the stars? Dream big? What's holding you back? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope that you wil...

It's a wrap! (52)

December 15, 2022 10:00 - 40 minutes - 92.1 MB

In the last episode of 2022, we reflect on the best bits of the past year, the things we've learned, and what we might do differently next year. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about comb...

Creative dates (51)

December 01, 2022 10:00 - 50 minutes - 115 MB

Taking yourself on a creative date is one of the best ways to nurture yourself as an artist: we all need to give ourselves time to "refill the well", regain perspective, and open ourselves to new ideas, influences and thoughts. But what makes a good creative date is different for everybody: here's what works for us. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an a...

Winging it - for 50! (50)

November 17, 2022 10:00 - 36 minutes - 83.4 MB

50 episodes, and we're still talking... Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope that you will find inspiration and support f...

The curse of creativity (49)

November 03, 2022 10:00 - 38 minutes - 88.1 MB

Our compulsion to create keeps life interesting, but can create its own trouble: so is it a blessing or a curse? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with...

Make it work (48)

October 20, 2022 09:00 - 37 minutes - 84.8 MB

Many of us dream of turning our creative pursuits into a viable business. But where do you start? And is it even a good idea?  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creativ...

Why we draw (47)

October 06, 2022 09:00 - 1 hour - 139 MB

Do you draw? And if not - why not? If you've stopped drawing, or never drawn, or you're scared to start, how can you get started again? And why do we think it's important you should? All questions we hope to answer in this episode! Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors spe...

When plans change (46)

September 22, 2022 09:00 - 36 minutes - 82.7 MB

Since we last spoke the UK has faced massive change with the death of the queen, which has had an effect on many of us in one way or another.  This has made us think about how we cope with change, whether they be nationwide events such as the death of a monarch, a worldwide pandemic or events and changes in our own lives. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to b...

Taking a break (45)

September 08, 2022 09:00 - 36 minutes - 82.9 MB

We're back from our summer break, but how did it go? Do we feel refreshed and revived and ready for an autumn of art, or do we need another holiday?! Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat abou...

Following our own path (44)

July 28, 2022 09:00 - 51 minutes - 117 MB

When we are creative it can be tricky to follow our own path and not try to emulate those artists we admire or who influence us. We have to learn to trust our own instincts and listen to our own voice rather than all the external voices and opinions that constantly bombard us. Easier said than done? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in ...

Why we're different (43)

July 14, 2022 09:00 - 1 hour - 148 MB

Despite sharing many similarities - in our art, skills, interests, hangups and frustrations, politics, and more besides - four little letters mean we differ in a big way. A couple of months ago Izzy was diagnosed with ADHD, so in this episode we talk about what it means and what happens next.  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textil...

Listeners' Questions (42)

June 30, 2022 09:00 - 36 minutes - 84.2 MB

You asked, we answered! And we'll definitely return to some of the topics raised in future episodes, as there was more to discuss than we had time for. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat abo...

Rock'n'roll (41)

June 16, 2022 09:00 - 35 minutes - 82.2 MB

The creative process can be a rollercoaster of ups and downs: how do we keep the momentum to see a project through to completion?  This is the third episode in our mini-series about the creative process, which started with Feeling Funky (39) and was followed by In The Groove (40). Now it's time for Rock'n'Roll!  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an arti...

In the groove (40)

June 02, 2022 09:00 - 34 minutes - 78.5 MB

How do we start a creative session in the studio? What are our "go to" moves to get us into our creative groove? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with ...

Feeling funky! (39)

May 19, 2022 09:00 - 44 minutes - 101 MB

What do we do when we're in a funk with our art?! Last time we talked about how our art can drop down our list of priorities. By the time we get to our art, we can be tired and grumpy! So how do we break out of our funk, and get ourselves into the studio? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing...

Which comes first: art or teaching? (38)

May 05, 2022 09:00 - 54 minutes - 124 MB

When we teach, often our own art and creativity can take a backseat. Why does this happen and what can we do to change it? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel Moore and Gina Ferrari are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining th...

Framing textile art (37)

April 21, 2022 09:00 - 44 minutes - 102 MB

To frame or not to frame? That is the question - and not just for textile art! We chat about some of the various ways we've finished and framed our textile work, and as a bonus, you can watch a video version of our chat over on our new YouTube channel https://youtu.be/I5Tlg-oOtdo.  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel M...

Are we overthinking this? (36)

April 07, 2022 09:00 - 55 minutes - 128 MB

This week we're trying not to overthink things - and talking about what we can do if we find that we are. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running...

Who's our audience?

March 24, 2022 10:00 - 53 minutes - 123 MB

This week, we're thinking about you, our audience, even more than usual! "Who is the audience for my work" is a question every artist grapples with. We both wear lots of different hats, but are we always talking to the same people? And if we want to reach more or new people, how do we do it? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles...

Who's our audience? (35)

March 24, 2022 10:00 - 53 minutes - 123 MB

This week, we're thinking about you, our audience, even more than usual! "Who is the audience for my work" is a question every artist grapples with. We both wear lots of different hats, but are we always talking to the same people? And if we want to reach more or new people, how do we do it? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles...

Why is it so hard to say no? (34)

March 10, 2022 10:00 - 48 minutes - 110 MB

Do you ever find yourself saying yes when actually you want to say no? Why is it so hard to say no? In this episode we talk why it's hard, and how to (maybe) make it easier. Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring ...

Imposter Syndrome (33)

February 24, 2022 10:00 - 55 minutes - 126 MB

Ever had the feeling you don't belong, you don't know what you're talking about, and you're not as good as other people say you are? Sounds a bit like imposter syndrome, and something most of us have experienced! Where does it come from? What triggers it? And is there anything we can do about it? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in tex...

The stuff we stitch (32)

February 10, 2022 10:00 - 59 minutes - 135 MB

We've both stitched on some funny things in our time - and while we don't necessarily recommend that you give these a go, we thought you might be interested in exactly what we've stitched and how - and perhaps more importantly, what we stitch now and why! Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicin...

Decluttering (31)

January 27, 2022 10:00 - 55 minutes - 126 MB

We're creative people, and we use a lot of stuff. But what do we do when we have too much? Is it time to declutter? And how do we go about it? Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combi...

Artist Identity (30)

January 13, 2022 10:00 - 52 minutes - 119 MB

Do you call yourself an artist? Or does that make you uncomfortable? We've both had mixed feelings in the past, so do we call ourselves artists now?! Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat abou...

2021 unravelled (29)

December 30, 2021 10:00 - 46 minutes - 106 MB

In this final episode of the year, we look back at our goals and plans for 2021, and chat about whether we achieved them - or not! And if we didn't, do we know why? And do we like having plans anyway? Or do we prefer to set a rough intention for the year, and stay flexible?  We also talk a little about what 2022 might look like, what's actually important to us, and how we're going to attempt to keep ourselves on track in the new year.  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers...

Colour Connections with Ruth Issett (28)

December 16, 2021 10:00 - 54 minutes - 125 MB

Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope that you will find inspiration and support for your own creative journeys. Mentioned...

All I want for Christmas (27)

December 02, 2021 10:00 - 50 minutes - 116 MB

Yes, it's that time of year! We think about what we might like to receive this Christmas - from the obvious and perhaps indulgent to the seemingly mundane things that would actually make our day.  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, bu...

A Year of Podcasting (26)

November 18, 2021 10:00 - 1 hour - 144 MB

Our 26th episode and a year since we started this podcast! We chat about friendship, our personalities, what we've learned, and our plans for the future.  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat...

Botanical Embroidery with Maggie Schnücker (25)

November 04, 2021 10:00 - 33 minutes - 76.6 MB

Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope that you will find inspiration and support for your own creative journeys. In this e...

Blowing our own trumpet: marketing! (24)

October 21, 2021 09:00 - 52 minutes - 121 MB

Marketing is a key part of any business - including being an artist - but thinking about "marketing" can seem very dry and dull, and make you want to run for the hills. Maybe there's a different way to look at it?  Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in mach...

Transferable skills (23)

October 07, 2021 09:00 - 46 minutes - 106 MB

Do we have skills from other areas of life that help us in our art? That's what we're pondering this week, after spending a day learning an ancient skill that we may never use again. Or will we? Perhaps there is more value to learning new skills than just what you create on the day?   Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Izzy ...

Running a creative business - with Viv Arthur of Art Van Go (22)

September 23, 2021 09:00 - 49 minutes - 113 MB

In this episode Gina chats to Viv Arthur of Art Van Go, about how she came to be running such a successful and unique creative business.  Isobel and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope that you will find inspiration and support for your own creative journeys. Mentioned in this episode: Art Van Go https://www.vycombe-arts.co.uk/ Ar...

Deep and meaningful (21)

September 09, 2021 09:00 - 50 minutes - 116 MB

In this episode, we discuss whether art needs to be deep and meaningful, whether it can just be for fun - or perhaps creating for fun is in fact creating meaningful art! Welcome to our podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what it actually means to be an artist working in textiles. Izzy and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all...

Location/Inspiration - with Kim Thittichai (20)

August 26, 2021 09:00 - 41 minutes - 95.8 MB

In this episode Izzy chats to textile artist, tutor and author, Kim Thittichai about her inspirations, and what prompted her to move from the south coast of England to the west coast of Ireland and pastures new.  Izzy and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope that you will find inspiration and support for your own creative journeys. Me...

Inspiration (19)

August 12, 2021 09:00 - 46 minutes - 107 MB

This week we're talking about inspiration: what it is, what it isn't, and what to do with it when we've got it! Izzy and Gina are both practicing artists and tutors specialising in machine embroidery, but we’re still figuring it all out! We chat about combining the creative process with running a business and hope that you will find inspiration and support for your own creative journeys. Mentioned in this episode: Foraged Fibres https://www.foragedfibres.co.uk/   https://www.instagram.co...

Sketchbooks (18)

July 29, 2021 09:00 - 53 minutes - 122 MB

Sketchbooks - an essential part of the creative process? In this episode we discuss the sketchbooks we use, whether that's one or many, and how we use them. We also discuss the size and format we prefer to use: large, small, spiral or casebound? And of course the drawings and sketches themselves: how crucial are they to the creative process? Welcome to a new podcast for all stitchers, embroiderers, textile artists and creative souls, where we have friendly informal conversations about what ...

Twitter Mentions

@alan_measles 1 Episode