This week’s episode is the reminder that creativity is both a question and an answer, a process of constant problem-solving, adaptation, and asking what’s next.
I’m joined by my dear friend, Katie Commodore, artist and educator at Clark University and Rhode Island School of Design.
From drawing and peyote stitch beading to embroidery and textiles, Katie explores new mediums while continuing to celebrate sexuality, intimacy, and everyday objects in her work.
Tune into this episode to learn how Katie translates erotic photography into woven tapestries and finds emotional release through beading rocks instead of throwing them at people (yes, really).
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform while you cook, clean, or create. Get the full show notes & transcript here
What’s in This Episode:
defines creativity as the willingness to experiment, ask questions, and find your own answers. She spends a lot of time looking at and thinking about her work. Katie shares her antidote to creative blocks, inspiring you to lean into your own simple creative projects when you're not sure what's next or how to move forward.
She highlights the importance of keeping personal series that no one else has ever seen, like how she paints her panties to honor each pair before retiring them.
Katie also opens up about how her creative process has shifted as she navigates life with MS, including how embroidery has become a surprising and liberating medium for reclaiming precision and presence.
Topics Covered:
Defining creativity as experimenting and asking questions
Navigating chronic illness and adapting creative tools
Embroidery and beading as meditative, emotional outlets
The power of beautifying everyday objects (even cigarettes)
Having simple, personal projects to work on when facing creative blocks
Question:
Have you tried a new medium or creative outlet lately? Leave a comment below or tag us on IG @chefcarlacontreras & @katiecommodore share with us.
PS: Are you Substack curious? Listen to this podcast episode about building your new digital home on Substack. Join the next Build Your Substack in a Day on Friday June 6th.
Disclaimer: Always seek the counsel of a qualified medical practitioner or other healthcare provider for an individual consultation before making any significant changes to your health, lifestyle, or to answer questions about specific medical conditions. This podcast is for entertainment and information purposes only.
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