Bad at Sports
Bad At Sports is a weekly podcast about contemporary art. Founded in 2005, badatsports.com focuses on presenting the practices of artists, curators, critics, dealers, various other arts professionals through an online audio format.
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Bad at Sports Episode 903: Jake Nickell & Lance Curran of Threadless
05/12/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 903: Jake Nickell & Lance Curran of Threadless
This week on Bad at Sports, Duncan MacKenzie and Ryan Peter Miller cruise their way into a murder mansion fever dream with Jake Nickell and Lance Curran, two of the minds behind Threadless—the Chicago-based t-shirt empire that helped invent crowdsourced artwear before we’d marketed terms like “creator economy” or “drop ship.” What begins as a nostalgia trip (setting the stage for how the business developed through DIY screenprinting and forum culture) quickly becomes a deep dive into ethics, art careers, AI disruption, licensing chaos, and why having your work sold in Hot Topic definitely still counts as making it. We unpack: The founding of Threadless on a secret art/code forum Shifting from screen printing to digital on-demand Working with artists, bands, and comic book creators Parody vs. IP theft (and WTF the DMCA is) Building safety and anti-hate moderation into a global platform Why Chicago still rules And why Punch Nazis continues to be a top seller Along the way, we also discuss vending machines, Karl Marx, Cheetos, the Four Seasons Total Landscaping press conference, and what happens when art school turns into a startup. And, importantly, how capitalism can be leveraged using Foucauldian power for artists—rather than for their subjugation. Jake Nickell is the founder of , and a pioneer in crowdsourced design and artist-first merchandise models. He started Threadless in 2000 while still in art school. Lance Curran is the VIP Accounts Director at Threadless, a longtime champion of artist partnerships, muralist collaborations, and weird comic book projects. He joined the company in 2005 and once described the warehouse as “the Foot Clan layer from Ninja Turtles.” Names Dropped:
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Episode 902: David Schilter and Pedro Vieira de Moura
05/08/2025
Episode 902: David Schilter and Pedro Vieira de Moura
Recorded live at the Comics Without Borders / Sans Frontières gathering at Rice University, this episode dives deep into international comics publishing, aesthetic risk-taking, and how underground networks drive a truly global comics culture. David Schilter, publisher and editor of Latvia’s acclaimed kuš! comics, joins us alongside Pedro Vieira de Moura, Portuguese critic, writer, and co-founder of the bookstore/gallery Mundo Fantasma. We talk about how a small-format anthology changed Latvian comics forever, why RAW magazine changed Pedro's life, and how comics have always been a place for outsiders to find their people. It’s about pornographic comics, lipstick in mirrors, misnumbered anthologies, institutional resistance, aesthetic weirdness, bookstores as public educators, and why no one in Latvia is publishing Maus. Guest Links: kuš! comics (David Schilter): Pedro Vieira de Moura: Mundo Fantasma (Porto bookstore/gallery): Names Dropped: Art Spiegelman – Creator of Maus, influence on RAW magazine: Barbara Shermund – queer comics history: Basil Wolverton – Iconic MAD magazine illustrator: Charles Burns – Known for Black Hole and RAW magazine: Gary Panter – RAW magazine artist, punk comics icon: Al Jaffee – Fold-in master at MAD Magazine: Frank Miller & David Mazzucchelli – Daredevil and Batman: Year One: Moebius – Legendary French comics artist: Neil Adams, George Pérez, Jim Lee – Scott McCloud – Author of Understanding Comics: Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro – Early Portuguese cartoonist and comic pioneer David B. – French cartoonist and co-founder of L’Association: Adrian Tomine – Acclaimed alternative cartoonist: Marjane Satrapi – Creator of Persepolis: Brian Baynes – Publisher of Bubbles Zine:
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Episode 901: Florencia Rodriguez and CAB 6
04/24/2025
Episode 901: Florencia Rodriguez and CAB 6
In this episode, we sit down with architect, editor, and curator Florencia Rodriguez, Artistic Director of the Chicago Architecture Biennial (CAB) 6. We dig into the ideas shaping this year’s edition—titled “Shift: Architecture in Times of Radical Change”—and her approach to curating a biennial that centers transformation, public space, and critical imagination. Rodriguez reflects on her journey from Buenos Aires to Chicago, the founding of PLOT and SOILED, and her evolving relationship to criticism as both practice and provocation. We explore how writing and curating can act as architectural tools, shaping not only discourse but the environments we inhabit. We also soft-launch Bad at Sports’ partnership with CAB 6—an evolving audio collaboration that will track the biennial’s voices, urgencies, and ideas throughout the year. Mentioned in this episode: Florencia Rodriguez –
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Bad at Sports Episode 900: Robert Pruitt
04/21/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 900: Robert Pruitt
Recorded live at Comics Sans Frontières, Houston For our milestone 900th episode, we headed to Houston and sat down with the brilliant Robert Pruitt, live at the Cats Conference: Comics Sans Frontières—a gathering of artists, thinkers, and cultural workers reshaping the future of comics, narrative, and speculative visual worlds. Live at a bar after the second conference day. So, this is never going to make it to the radio. Cuss-y MacCusserson shows up and healthy arguments occur. Pruitt, known for his richly layered drawings and deep engagement with Black cultural production, walks us through the politics of representation, the influence of comics and sci-fi on his work, and the shifting cultural landscape of the Gulf Coast. We talk materials, mythology, the beauty of inconsistency, and what it means to make work that traffics in both critique and care. Let’s take a moment to reflect on what it means to reach 900 episodes of Bad at Sports—and what’s next for us in the ever-evolving, ever-weird world of contemporary art discourse. Nah. Let’s do it later this week at EXPO Chicago. Mentioned in this episode: Bad at Sports: The Center of Discourse (link coming soon!)
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Bad at Sports Episode 899: Jessica Snow & Liga Spunde
04/11/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 899: Jessica Snow & Liga Spunde
Gremlins, Borders, and Recipes for Resistance This week we’re joined by Jessica Snow and Liga Spunde, two artists navigating the world through comics, street theater, and occasionally letterpress and photoshop. Jessica Snow walks us through her wide-ranging practice—from illustration and letterpress to building massive puppets and organizing street performances to attempting to confronting the entangled realities of border politics, ecological collapse, and resistance. Her work with Kitchen Table Press and collaborative projects like Recipes of Resistance blend protest and performance into shared, tangible experiences that challenge the quiet violence of contemporary life. Meanwhile, Liga Spunde brings us deep into a psychological terrain. Working with a unique computer-generated drawing style, Liga explores the emotional weight of the traumas of contemporary life—from the Russian invasion of Ukraine to the various ways we experienced the pandemic to the existential task of making a 6 page comic. Her work resists tidy narratives, instead making room for ambiguity, emotional excess, fragile and detailed humor, and a specific fascination with Gremlins. This episode was recorded as part of Chris Sperandio’s Comics Without Borders (but say it in French) event at Rice University—an international gathering of artists, publishers, and thinkers reframing what comics can do in turbulent times. (More here: Comics Without Borders.) We cover a lot of ground—Latvia’s premier comic publisher, post-crisis psychology, DIY print culture, and why strange books and big puppets might still save us all. This is Bad at Sports at its finest: loose, live, urgent and embedded, and full of strange joy. Links & Projects Mentioned: Jessica Snow: Kitchen Table Press: Recipes of Resistance: Liga Spunde: kuš! komikss: Comics Without Borders @ Rice University: Christopher Sperandio:
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Bad at Sports Episode 898: Wafaa Bilal and Bana Kattan
04/01/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 898: Wafaa Bilal and Bana Kattan
This week. Dana’s back? She and Duncan sit down with artist Wafaa Bilal and curator Bana Kattan to discuss Bilal’s powerful and deeply personal mid-career retrospective at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. Known for his provocative, often participatory works that grapple with war, trauma, displacement, and surveillance, Bilal has long made the body both a site of resistance and a vessel of memory. We talk through key moments in Bilal’s practice—from early performance pieces like Domestic Tension to newer, installation-based works—and reflect on how his work has shifted, expanded, and endured over the past two decades. Kattan, who curated the exhibition, shares insights into the retrospective’s structure and the challenges of contextualizing work that refuses easy categorization. While reminiscing, Duncan and Wafaa also talk through what it means to make art as a form of witnessing, how museums hold space for pain and politics, and why Bilal still believes in the power of beauty… (Spoiler: Duncan isn’t sure, but Bana and Dana side with Wafaa.) Links & References: Wafaa Bilal's website: MCA Chicago Exhibition Info: Bana Kattan bio & curatorial work: Domestic Tension (aka “Shoot an Iraqi” project): Book: Shoot an Iraqi: Art, Life, and Resistance Under the Gun (co-authored with Kari Lydersen) – @wafaabilal on Instagram @mcachicago on Instagram
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Bad at Sports Episode 897: Architecture, Documentaries, and Changing Minds with Kyle Bergman and Ashley Lukasik
03/26/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 897: Architecture, Documentaries, and Changing Minds with Kyle Bergman and Ashley Lukasik
In this episode, we talk Architectural Doucmentaries, Graphic Design, the cross over of the art and design audiences, and whether or not social practice could be a job: Kyle Bergman, is the mastermind behind the Architecture & Design Film Festival (ADFF), takes us through the wild ride of showcasing global architectural stories and films. He shares the festival’s international charm and its role in making architecture the star of the show. Ashley Lukasik, filmmaker and Principal of Murmur Ring, joins us to talk about The New Bauhaus documentary (Maholy’s got swag) and the work she’s producing at Murmur Ring. They’re out to change the minds of makers and using social practice and design thinking strategies on the practioneers and the designers. Links and Resources: Architecture & Design Film Festival (ADFF): ADFF’s global tour of must-see design docs. () Chicago Architecture Center (CAC): The CAC is where the architectural magic happens. () Murmur Ring: Ashley Lukasik’s team is all about immersive experiences that challenge what it means to be human in a digital age. () 'The New Bauhaus' Documentary: Get the lowdown on the Bauhaus movement and why it’s still cooler than you might think. ()
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Bad at Sports Episode 896: Beth Hetland and Kyle O'Connell
03/13/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 896: Beth Hetland and Kyle O'Connell
In the final episode recorded live from Stitch and Staple: The Artist Book Fair, we’re thrilled to sit down with two incredible comic creators, Beth Hetland and Kyle O'Connell. This conversation dives deep into the world of comics and graphic narratives, with Hetland and O'Connell offering insights into their creative collaborations and shared comic interests. Beth Hetland, known for her heartfelt and intricate autobiographical comics, discusses the power of graphic novels to explore memory, identity, and storytelling. She and Kyle O’Connell also shed light on how their collaboration allows them to push the boundaries of traditional comic narratives, creating work that resonates on both emotional and humorous levels. In a fun aside, Duncan revisits the origin story of how Ryan joined Bad at Sports. Initially approaching artist Jennifer Mills to be a co-host, Duncan found himself "thrown under the bus" when Mills suggested Ryan instead—and the rest is podcast history! The dynamic duo share their complicated vacation-sharing arrangement and how Jennifer, hilariously, isn’t speaking to either of them anymore. In this episode, everyone embraces the playful, witty energy that makes comics such an accessible and engaging medium. We reflect on what comics can uniquely access within the world of art, and how the medium functions as a powerful tool for both personal expression and social commentary. Plus, in true Bad at Sports style, there’s plenty of humor, banter, and storytelling along the way. We’re airing this episode just as Duncan and Ryan gear up for their next adventure—heading to Houston for the Comics Sans Frontières: An International Graphic Narrative Conference at Rice University. Be sure to catch the conversation before they hit the road! Links and Mentions: Beth Hetland's Kyle O’Connell's Stitch and Staple: The Artist Book Fair Comics Sans Frontières at Rice University Bad at Sports live from Houston Upcoming! Jennifer Mills'
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Bad at Sports Episode 895: Emma Bergman
03/06/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 895: Emma Bergman
In this episode, Bad at Sports welcomes artist, writer, and thinker to discuss a range of fascinating topics that blend the personal, the theoretical, and the speculative. We delve into Emma's ideas about utopian conviction and how they intersect with the looming specter of the coming apocalypse, and the games we can play with what is becoming our practical nightmare. From philosophical musings to creative solutions, we explore how different utopian ideologies might intersect and prepare (or fail to prepare) us for the crisis of our future. also enters the conversation, as we examine how modern and historical approaches to assessing character and behavior might offer insights—or generate traps—for individuals navigating this new world order and Berman runs the boys of though her system and we learn if they are ready. We also explore the concept of , digging into how institutional structures shape our experience and sense of agency in the world, and how to creatively play within these constraints and out side them can establish new paths forward. Throughout this conversation, we playfully touch on ways to solve the future—how art, culture, and speculative thinking offer new ways of envisioning what lies ahead, and how individuals can act within systems and system collapse. Join us for a thought-provoking episode filled with visionary ideas, humor, and practical philosophical discussions. Live for the 21C Chicago!
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Bad at Sports Episode 894: Hoof Print Press & Immaterial Publications
03/04/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 894: Hoof Print Press & Immaterial Publications
In this episode, Bad at Sports dives into the world of independent publishing, printmaking, and the intersections of art, academia, and production with two innovative presses pushing the boundaries of their respective fields. , based in Pilsen, Chicago, is not just a print shop, but a thriving print publisher that explores multiple media, including ceramics. Known for their dynamic exhibition series, they bring a unique perspective on the art of printmaking, combining tradition with modern experimentation. We talk about how they balance the fine art of print with the hands-on craft of ceramics and what it means to operate as both creators and curators in the community-driven Pilsen neighborhood. - Gabe Hoare on mic. Next, we’re joined by , a quasi-academic press that’s redefining the possibilities of academic publishing. Immaterial tests the limits of what it means to produce knowledge and content outside the conventional capitalist distribution and production models. They explore nontraditional forms of publishing that challenge the boundaries between art and academia. In this conversation, we dive into how their radical approach to publishing engages with academia, art practices, and the broader cultural conversation around knowledge production. Phillip Kalantzis-Cope on mic. Together, we discuss how both presses navigate the evolving worlds of independent publishing and art production, and how their work is changing the ways we think about community, art, and knowledge distribution. Tune in for an insightful episode that explores the intersection of artistic practices, publishing, and the role of independent presses in today’s creative and academic landscapes. Live from 21C Chicago!
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Bad at Sports Episode 893: Cecilia Beaven
02/19/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 893: Cecilia Beaven
In this episode, we sit down with Cecilia Beaven, a dynamic Mexican-born artist, muralist, and illustrator whose work bridges the worlds of fine art and public spaces. Beaven's pieces have graced both urban environments and galleries, transforming her surroundings with a unique blend of surrealism, humor, and critical commentary. Her work explores themes of myth, identity, and the fantastical, reflecting on the human experience through vibrant, intricate visual narratives. Recently, Beaven has been making waves with exhibitions at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago and the Hyde Park Art Center. These shows highlight her ability to combine intricate storytelling with visual spectacle, drawing viewers into her vibrant, often surreal world. Beyond gallery spaces, Beaven's public art projects have continued to expand, with large-scale murals that engage communities and address themes of identity, history, and the urban environment. We discuss her process, influences, and the challenges of creating art that resonates across cultural contexts. Tune in to hear about her experiences painting murals, collaborating with communities, and navigating the international art scene. Beaven also delves into her ongoing projects and the role of storytelling in her artistic practice. https://www.ceciliabeaven.com/
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Bad at Sports Episode 892: Process Process and Bench Press
02/13/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 892: Process Process and Bench Press
Strap in, print nerds, because this week we’re coming to you live from the wild and inky trenches of the Staple and Stitch Artist Book Fair at 21C Chicago! First up, we’ve got Angee Lennard and Jessica Cochran from Process Process Print Publishers—the dynamic duo that’s doing god's work by helping artists get their process-based, experimental prints out into the world (or at least onto some beautiful paper). These two are the real deal: no pretentious art-speak, just raw, creative energy making print magic happen. Then, just when you thought the paper party couldn’t get any better, Madeleine Aguilar from Bench Press Publications joins us to lay down some serious knowledge about the Chicago art book scene. Bench Press is the indie press you want to be in the know about—they’re cranking limited-run artist books that’ll make you want to throw all your digital content in the trash. We recorded this maudlin crew, so enjoy the ambient sounds of over-caffeinated art students and print enthusiasts buzzing around, plus a few awkward microphone mishaps. It’s all part of the charm! Episode Highlights: Angie and Jessica talk about the blood, sweat, and squeegees behind Process Process Print Publishers—and why the process is as important as the product. Bench Press Publications: indie publishing that’s both scrappy and impossibly cool. Madeleine breaks down the beauty of small-batch, collectible art books and why limited edition is more than just a buzzword. The absolute chaos and joy of recording this episode at Staple and Stitch in the heart of the art scene at 21C Chicago. (Spoiler: You’ll want to be there next year.) Process Process Print Publishers: Bench Press Publications: Staple and Stitch Artist Book Fair:
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Bad at Sports Episode 891: Dawit L. Petros & Onur Öztürk - Prospetto a Mare
02/04/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 891: Dawit L. Petros & Onur Öztürk - Prospetto a Mare
Live from the wild, eclectic, art-riddled halls of Stitch and Staple at the illustrious 21C hotel, we’re diving into the deep blue—conceptually, at least—with this episode. We chat with the incredibly thoughtful Dawit L. Petros and Art History powerhouse Onur Öztürk about their work in the exhibition Prospetto a Mare at the Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP). What’s it about? Well, think: migration, colonial histories, and the ever-shifting geopolitical sea. No big deal, right? Petros’ breathtaking, multi-layered visual narratives bring the past and present of migration into view, while Öztürk’s sharp, historically-grounded insights connect the dots across time and space. Together, they turn the exhibition into a thought-provoking journey across borders—geographical, historical, and artistic. Also, we recorded this episode at 21C’s luxurious digs, so enjoy the ambiance of clinking glasses and gallery buzz in the background. Join us as we unpack how art and history collide in one of the most important conversations about displacement and identity today. Links & Mentions: Dawit L. Petros: Onur Öztürk: Prospetto a Mare Exhibition at MoCP: Stitch and Staple at 21C Hotel: Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP):
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Bad at Sports Episode 890: Kris Graves and Have a Nice Day Press
01/29/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 890: Kris Graves and Have a Nice Day Press
Live from at the illustrious (because, why record in a normal studio when you can do it in a fancy hotel?), we dive into the deep end with , photographer extraordinaire and head honcho of , along with the relentlessly kind crew from . We grill Kris on everything from the role of documentary photography in social justice to navigating this wild political landscape we call life, all while discussing how photo books aren't just pretty—they're political weapons (but, you know, in a good way). If you’ve ever wondered how to make a photo book that doesn’t just sit on a shelf, but sparks a revolution, this one’s for you. Kris Graves might just be the guy to show you how. And then, we meet Have a Nice Day Press, who are all about making art books with the simple goal of being, well... nice. Like, refreshingly nice. They break down why making art books is their way of spreading good vibes and making the world a slightly less terrible place. Turns out, being nice is a radical act in the art world—who knew? Want more Kris Graves magic? (Warning: May cause sudden urges to buy all the books) (Yes, he's that good) Curious about Have a Nice Day Press? (Prepare to be showered with niceness) Join us for a wild ride filled with book love, kindness overload, and Kris Graves’ no-nonsense take on everything from politics to photography. Grab your headphones and get ready for some serious (and not-so-serious) art talk.
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Bad at Sports Episode 889: Meg Duguid and Spudnik Press
01/23/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 889: Meg Duguid and Spudnik Press
In this episode, we catch up with , the new Executive Director of , Chicago’s premier community printmaking studio. Meg shares her vision for the future of the Press, an organization known for fostering an inclusive environment where artists of all levels can access printmaking resources, develop their craft, and engage with a vibrant, supportive artistic community. , since its founding in 2007, has stood at the intersection of traditional printmaking and innovative artistic practices. The Press offers an array of services, including an open studio, workshops, residencies, and exhibitions that elevate both established and emerging printmakers. Its mission extends beyond the art of printmaking, positioning itself as a vital hub for creative expression, collaboration, and education within Chicago’s art landscape. Meg discusses how she plans to continue and expand on Spudnik’s role in the local and national printmaking communities, emphasizing inclusivity, experimentation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. She brings her years of experience as an artist, curator, and arts administrator to this dynamic role, sharing insights into how Spudnik Press will continue to push boundaries and serve as a crucial space for artistic growth. Tune in to hear about , her thoughts on leadership, and what lies ahead for as it enters an exciting new chapter under her direction.
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Bad at Sports Podcast Episode 888: Sharon & Guy + Marin R. Sullivan + Brandon Johnson
01/15/2025
Bad at Sports Podcast Episode 888: Sharon & Guy + Marin R. Sullivan + Brandon Johnson
A strange and lucky number for an episode packed with the profound! This week, we dive deep into design, architecture, and the unique culture of Chicago. We kick things off with an interview featuring the dynamic design collaborative whose thought-provoking artworks are included in The Spaces We Call Home, currently on view at the . They're joined by , the curator of this important show, to discuss how their work reflects on identity, place, and home. Next, we talk to Brandon Johnson, publisher of , about his exploration of Chicago's gangland ephemera, the hidden histories of modern architecture, tagging, visionary art, and why Chicago continues to inspire generations of creators. Brandon's work uncovers the city's gritty and delightfully creative underbelly, presenting it in a way that both honors and challenges conventional narratives. Join us as we unpack all things Chicago: from its built environment to its street art, this conversation covers it all, with plenty of love for the city that shapes so much of our work. All from #1
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Bad at Sports Episode 887: 21C Hotels, Jennifer Murray, and Artist Evan Fusco
01/02/2025
Bad at Sports Episode 887: 21C Hotels, Jennifer Murray, and Artist Evan Fusco
In this episode of Bad at Sports, we’re coming to you live from the Stitch and Staple Artist Book Fair at 21C Museum Hotels! Join us as we chat with Jennifer Murray, about the evolving landscape of artist book fairs and the growing role of alternative exhibition spaces. We also dive into the mind of Evan Fusco, a rising artist and art producer whose multidisciplinary practice explores themes of identity, memory, and transformation. Our hosts discuss the significance of the 21C Museum Hotels as a cultural space that bridges hospitality and contemporary art, creating opportunities for artists and visitors alike. Highlights: The history of the 21c and public art with Jennifer Murray Evan Fusco’s artistic process and how his work challenges conventional forms The role of 21C Museum Hotels as an alternative platform for art in unexpected spaces Insights from the Stitch and Staple Artist Book Fair at 21C Hotels Tune in for a dynamic conversation on the future of art in unconventional spaces and the work of emerging artists like Fusco! Suggested Links: (more links soon) – Learn more about 21C Museum Hotels and their fusion of art and hospitality. Jennifer Murray – Former Director of Filter Photo and a key figure in contemporary photography, now Curator at 21C Chicago Evan Fusco – Explore Evan Fusco’s portfolio. Stitch and Staple Artist Book Fair – Find out more about the event and participating artists.
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Bad at Sports Episode 886: Scott Speh on 20 Years of Western Exhibitions & Chicago Art Scene Reflections
11/29/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 886: Scott Speh on 20 Years of Western Exhibitions & Chicago Art Scene Reflections
In this milestone episode of Bad at Sports, we welcome back Scott Speh, the founder and director of Western Exhibitions, to celebrate 20 years of the gallery’s existence and its significant role in shaping the Chicago art scene. It’s been 19 years since Scott’s last appearance on the show, and in this conversation, we dive deep into the journey of Western Exhibitions, its impact on the city’s art landscape, and the evolving nature of the gallery's programming. From the early days of launching the gallery to navigating the challenges and rewards of running an independent space in Chicago, Scott offers a unique perspective on the state of contemporary art and its communities. We discuss the dynamic relationships between artists, collectors, curators, and the broader public, and reflect on how Western Exhibitions has not only supported emerging artists but also helped to foster a rich cultural dialogue in the city. As the art world continues to change, Scott shares his thoughts on the future of galleries, the role of physical spaces, and how the local art ecosystem has evolved over the past two decades. Tune in for an insightful and engaging conversation about the intersection of art, community, and sustainability in Chicago. Names Dropped… Shannon Stratton, Marc Fischer, Anthony Elms, Philip von Zweck, Rhona Hoffman, Dirk Denison, David Salkin, John Neff, Jason Pickelman, Dutes Miller, Pedro Valez, Nick Frank, Stan Shellabarger, 7/3 Split, Tim Fleming, Paul Nudd, Dan Attoe, Lisa Boyle, Rowley Kennerk, Andrew Rafacz, Lou Manilow, Robyn O’Neil, Ryan Christianson, Geoffrey Todd Smith, Edie Fake, Mark Pascalr… There were others… Image Credit - Credit: Josh Druding for Chicago Reader
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Bad at Sports Episode 885: Betsy Odom
11/26/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 885: Betsy Odom
In this episode of Bad at Sports, we sit down with Chicago-based artist and sculptor Betsy Odom, whose work uniquely blends high craftsmanship with intentional moments when the craft fails. Odom’s sculptures often serve as playful critiques of mass cultural phenomena, gendered objects, and sporting culture, creating pieces that are both visually stunning and conceptually layered. With a deep fascination for sports culture and the ways it intersects with identity and gender, Odom’s work delights in crafting objects that are as charmingly imperfect as they are thoughtful. These "flawed" sculptures often act as queer-ed interpretations of familiar items, inviting us to question the norms surrounding them. We discuss Betsy’s approach to materials, her exploration of identity through sculpture, and how humor and subversion play key roles in her work.
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Bad at Sports Episode 884: Pete and Jake Fagundo
11/12/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 884: Pete and Jake Fagundo
In this episode, we explore Ours Is The Hand That Sews Time, a two-person exhibition at M. LeBlanc featuring new work by father and son, Peter and Jake Fagundo. Both artists challenge the notion of painting as a finished product, instead embracing it as a continuous, evolving process. Peter, a longtime professor at SAIC, draws from his deep archive of past drawings and appropriated imagery, creating works that bridge abstraction and figuration. His son Jake, shaped by the digital age and a dynamic array of artistic influences, balances historical references with playful figurative work. Together, their pieces create a dialogue across generations, blending tradition with contemporary exploration. We are joined by Taylor Payton and Marc LeBlanc.
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Bad at Sports Episode 883: Meghann Sottille and MAD
11/01/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 883: Meghann Sottille and MAD
In this episode, the Bad at Sports crew heads to the Center for MAD Culture to dive into the powerful intersection of art and mental health. They sit down with the Center’s current featured artist, Meghann Sottile, and Director Matt Bodett to explore what it means to embrace "MAD culture" and the crucial role that madness plays in shaping our broader cultural landscape. Sottile shares insights into her exquisitely crafted sculptures, discussing the influence of her personal experiences and the broader implications of creating work that navigates the boundaries of beauty and mental health. Bodett adds to the conversation, offering a glimpse into the mission of the Center for MAD Culture and the ways in which madness informs creative expression, societal perceptions, and cultural contributions. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about art, madness, and the way we think about the relationship between creativity and mental health.
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Bad at Sports Episode 882: Eric Von Haynes
09/30/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 882: Eric Von Haynes
Eric Von Haynes is a Chicago-based artist, printmaker, and community organizer. He founded Flatlands Press, a print studio that creates art objects and printed ephemera for artists worldwide, with a focus on community engagement. His work blends traditional and contemporary printmaking techniques, creating unique monoprints that invite viewers to reflect on time and memory. Haynes’ work is characterized by his use of slow media, non-repeating patterns, and an emphasis on process-driven art. In addition to his artistic practice, Haynes is deeply involved in community-based initiatives. He co-founded The Love Fridge Chicago, a mutual aid group focused on food sovereignty, and serves as the President of the Chicago Printers Guild. His dedication to collaborative art practices extends to his residency at the Chicago Art Department, where he engages in projects that promote public participation and social connections through art. He has exhibited works like Drawn Through Restraint, a series of lithographs exploring the intersection of design, time, and memory. This exhibition included participatory workshops to engage the public in risograph printing, highlighting his commitment to blending art with community-building.
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Bad at Sports Episode: 881 Sean Nash
09/24/2024
Bad at Sports Episode: 881 Sean Nash
This week on Bad at Sports Duncan MacKenzie and Amy Kligman check in with Sean Nash! Thanks to the glory of the Charlotte Street Foundation. Sean Nash is a visual artist whose work often intersects with fermentation, social practice, and ecological themes. His projects integrate fermented foods into sculptures and exhibitions, exploring the cultural and biological aspects of fermentation. Nash has exhibited at various venues including the Kniznick Gallery at Brandeis, Plug Projects in Kansas City, and Black Ball Projects in Brooklyn. Notably, his "Lactobacillus Amongus" exhibition used sourdough starters and bacteria as a form of portraiture, blending biology with visual art. He also engages with social practice art, such as his long-term project "Trans Fermentation," where he collaborates with other transgender individuals to ferment food, creating a platform for dialogue and community building. Nash’s work challenges traditional boundaries between disciplines, bringing together art, food, and social issues Additionally, he recently earned the Charlotte Street Visual Art Award, and his upcoming work will be featured at the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art. His pieces often comment on environmental and agricultural themes, creating art that envisions a hopeful, sustainable future
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Bad at Sports Episode 880: Cesar Lopez and Sam Hann
09/04/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 880: Cesar Lopez and Sam Hann
In this episode our intrepid art adventure enthusist, Duncan MacKenzie, is joined but KC rockstar ED, Amy Kligman. Together they catch up with two of the next generation of Kansas City's art world grinders charting the next phase of KC contemporary art. Sam Hann and Cesar E. Lopez Mejia.
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Bad at Sports Episode 879: Ruben Castillo
08/28/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 879: Ruben Castillo
In this episode of the Bad at Sports Podcast, we sit down with Ruben Castillo, and explore his two person exhibition with Amy Cousins. Few broadcast from the heart of Kansas City thanks to the glory of the Charlotte Street Foundation.
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Bad at Sports Episode 878: Caleb Taylor @ Charlotte Street in KC
08/23/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 878: Caleb Taylor @ Charlotte Street in KC
In this episode of the Bad at Sports Podcast, we sit down with Caleb Taylor, a dynamic artist and influential figure in Kansas City's vibrant art scene. Join us as we delve into Caleb's creative journey, his work, Plug, curating, and his deep roots and connections with the local Kansas City art scene. Corey Antis (Kansas City)- https://cargocollective.com/coreyantis Avantika Bawa (Portland)- Dan Devening (Chicago)- http://dandevening.com/ Marcie Miller Gross (Kansas City)- Mie Kongo (Chicago)- Cybele Lyle (Los Angeles)- Armin Mühsam (Kansas City)- Erin O’Keefe (New York)- Christopher Spaw (Alma, KS)- Caleb Taylor (Kansas City)-
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Bad at Sports Episode 877: Colin Matthes
08/08/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 877: Colin Matthes
On this episode of Bad at Sports, Wisconsin artist Colin Matthes gets descriptive about his ongoing series of discursive drawings and sculptures. His unconscientious images come from a daily drawing routine made around the home with his wife and two children, portraying confabulated narratives from books and TV intertwined with imagined and lived moments.
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Bad at Sports Episode 876 the Future of Arts Education 1
07/10/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 876 the Future of Arts Education 1
Description: Join hosts Jesse Malmed and Duncan MacKenzie as they chat with Jen de los Reyes about the future of arts education. Jen shares her innovative teaching methods and syllabus, sparking a lively discussion on how to nurture creativity and adapt to a changing art world. Jesse gets thoughtful. Duncan mic drops. About Our Guests: Jesse Malmed is a Chicago-based artist, curator, and educator known for his interdisciplinary practice that includes performance, video, text, and curatorial projects. Jesse's work explores the intersection of art and media, challenging traditional forms and pushing creative boundaries. He teaches at University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Jen de los Reyes is a visionary artist, educator, and community organizer. She is recognized for her pioneering work in socially engaged art and her commitment to rethinking and reshaping art education. Jen's teaching philosophy emphasizes inclusivity, creativity, and real-world impact, making her a leading figure in contemporary arts education. She teaches at Cornell University. Duncan MacKenzie is an artist, educator, and co-founder of the Bad at Sports podcast. With a background in print, painting, sculpture, and art criticism, Duncan brings a keen analytical eye to the podcast, facilitating in-depth discussions on art practice and education. He teaches at Columbia College Chicago.
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Bad at Sports Episode 875: Solana Chehtman and Jaeyong Park with Daniel Tucker
07/04/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 875: Solana Chehtman and Jaeyong Park with Daniel Tucker
In this episode of Bad at Sports, Daniel Tucker travels to Seoul, South Korea, to attend the Arts in Society conference 2024, where he sits down with two influential figures in the global arts community. Solana Chehtman, a New York-based cultural producer and curator originally from Buenos Aires, joins Daniel as a plenary speaker at the conference. Solana is currently the Director of Artist Programs at Joan Mitchell Foundation, where she focuses on supporting visual artists through unrestricted funding and career development opportunities. Her commitment to equity in the arts has shaped her roles as the inaugural Director of Creative Practice and Social Impact at The Shed and Vice President of Public Engagement at Friends of the High Line. Solana’s extensive experience includes teaching at the MA in Arts Administration at Baruch College and collaborating with organizations such as Artadia and Creative Capital. Jaeyong Park, a curator, writer, and translator based in Seoul, shares insights from his work at the Seoul Reading Room and as an organizer at Curating School Seoul. Jaeyong co-founded Work on Work and has curated numerous impactful projects, including "HIT and RUN" and "The Ideological Guide to Venice Biennale." His individual projects, such as "TOTAL RECALL" and "Center for Selfie Studies," explore themes of technology, connectivity, and social context in art. As a researcher, Jaeyong delves into structural changes in the art system in Korea and Asia, emphasizing the intersection of art and society. Join Daniel Tucker as he engages Solana Chehtman and Jaeyong Park in a conversation that delves into their experiences, perspectives, and the evolving landscape of arts and culture on a global scale. https://www.jaeyongpark.net/
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Bad at Sports Episode 874: Jen de los Reyes
06/26/2024
Bad at Sports Episode 874: Jen de los Reyes
Welcome to another episode of Bad at Sports. In this episode, Jesse and Duncan sit down with Jen de los Reyes, an artist, organizer, and activist known for her transformative projects that bridge art and community engagement. Jen de los Reyes is perhaps best known for her role in founding and organizing the groundbreaking Open Engagement conference, a platform that explores various facets of art and social practice. Through Open Engagement, Jen has created a space where artists, thinkers, and activists converge to discuss critical issues and forge connections that transcend traditional boundaries. During our conversation, Jen de los Reyes shares insights into the origins of Open Engagement, its evolution over the years, and its impact on the contemporary art scene. We delve into the conference's role in fostering dialogue around social justice, environmental sustainability, and collective action within artistic practices. In addition to her work with Open Engagement, we discuss: Garbage Hill Farm. This innovative urban farming initiative challenges conventional notions of sustainability and community building. The Garbage Hill Farm project transforms its urban landscapes and serves as a platform for education and empowerment within local communities. All from inside of her exhibition “In Concert With” at Chicago’s Co-Prosperity Sphere.
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