Creative Narratives

Episode 7: Esther Loopstra

Seattle-based artist Esther Loopstra is a mixed-media painter and writer. Her work is inspired by nature and a focus on seasonal growth & reflection. As an Art Coach, she helps others connect with their intuition and helps guide them towards creative authenticity. We chat about the ‘Flow State’, share our personal experiences with it, the neuroscience behind it and how flow triggers impact our art, our relationships and our creative processes. Other creatives mentioned in this episode: Alison Henrich, Emily Mundy, Emily Conrad and Andrea Webber.Website: creativenarrativespodcast.comPATREON: creativenarrativespodcastInstagram: creative_narratives_podcast

Episode 6: Virginie Garcia

Virginie is a dynamic force of energy and exuberance. She's been creating art her whole life and learned how to use her artist voice along the way. Originally from Cannes, France, she recalls how her journey led her to the states, the people who encouraged and how she continues to honor them today. We chat about her unique ability to draw people in with color, how artists act as bridges for the public and why the world needs more pink and purple houses.Other creatives mentioned in this episode: Mary Thomkins, Sofia Castellanos, Gary Gunderson, Arte Hasta La Muerte, Michelle Font and Brady BlackWebsite: creativenarrativespodcast.comPATREON: creativenarrativespodcastInstagram: creative_narratives_podcast

Episode 5: Aaron Asis

Aaron Asis is a connector. Whether its connecting dots with cord in abandoned spaces or connecting community members with local artists to enhance a neighborhood, his thoughtful projects have lasting impact as a result. His engaging art installations, in cities across the country, invite viewers to be curious, contemplative and explore spaces in unexpected ways. Originally from New York, Aaron's projects keep him bi-coastal. His relatable demeanor and open heart keeps him connected with artists and influential community leaders everywhere. VISIT Aaron Asis' websiteFOLLOW Aaron Asis on InstagramOther creatives mentioned in this episode include: Gordon Matta-Clark, JR Foundation, Harvester Arts, Walter Hood, Library of Congress, Kansas African American Museum “Share Your Stories”, Nick Ferderer and Base Camp Studios.Creative Narratives: Amplifying Artist StoriesWebsite: creativenarrativespodcast.comPATREON: creativenarrativespodcastInstagram: creative_narratives_podcast

Episode 4: Kamari Bright

Kamari Bright is a video poet and multidisciplinary artist. Her path to prose started from a young age through music and today her creativity is captivating audiences across continents. She explores and overlaps a myriad of themes using spoken word, poetry, film, installations and visual art in ways that serve as cultural tributes, reflections, self-love and a way of healing. Her introspective lens carries our conversation into honest assessments of the human condition, modern technology, finding connection with each other and we learn how her creative processes provide healing along her artist journey. You can find her work exhibited at Seattle's Paramount Theater through the month of August 2025. VISIT Kamari Bright's websiteFOLLOW Kamari Bright on InstagramSUPPORT Kamari Bright on PatreonOther creatives mentioned in this episode include: Dani Tirrell, David Rue, Kristina Batiste, Wanawari, Zahyr Lauren, The Casspir Project and TaswiraCreative Narratives: Amplifying Artist StoriesWebsite: creativenarrativespodcast.comPATREON: creativenarrativespodcastInstagram: creative_narratives_podcast

Episode 3: Carmel Mercado

Carmel Mercado's creative journey started while she was a practicing pediatric ophthalmologist. Her unique background enables her to bridge a love for art while enhancing the experiences of young patients [and their families] during clinic visits.We chat about her love for dogs, her gamer background and how her art continues to evolve in both large-and-small-scale mediums. You can find her public work in the greater Seattle area on utility boxes in Bellevue, Kent, Kirkland and Tukwila. VISIT Carmel Mercado's websiteFOLLOW Carmel Mercado on InstagramOther creatives mentioned in this episode include: Katsushika Hokusai, Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami, MeoWolf, Babe Walls, Joan Miró, Remix Uno and Kaitlin Ziesmer.Creative Narratives: Amplifying Artist StoriesWebsite: creativenarrativespodcast.comPATREON: creativenarrativespodcastInstagram: creative_narratives_podcast