ArtsBusinessEntrepreneurship

Windowsill Chats

Margo Tantau

Windowsill Chats is a podcast for artists and creatives who are curious about what it's like to live, work & walk a creative path. You'll find honest stories, refreshing tips, artistic business advice and real conversations with global artists & makers just like you. Host Margo Tantau, a 30+ year Creative Director, Product Designer & maker, is a cheerleader for your success. Come grab a cuppa & join her in her sunny windowsill.

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32 episodes
weekly
Avg 1 hr 9 min
English

Episodes 32

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S1 · E320
June 17 · 1 hr 21 min
Stitched in Memory: Symbolism, Color, and the Hidden Stories in Greek Folk Art with Ariadne Kritonos
Margo is joined by designer and storyteller Ariadne Kritonos, whose work brings centuries-old Greek folk motifs into contemporary life. Drawing inspiration from historic embroideries, textiles, and museum archives, Ariadne shares how studying the creative traditions of the past has shaped her approach to design, color, and inspiration today. Together, they explore the hidden stories embedded in traditional folk art, the value of looking beyond digital culture for creative inspiration, and what we can learn from the women whose stitches carried meaning across generations. Margo and Ariadne discuss: How Greek folk embroidery became the bridge between Ariadne's love of art, design, and cultural heritage The hidden symbolism and storytelling woven into traditional textile motifs Why researching archives, museums, and historic objects offers a different kind of inspiration than online algorithms The remarkable women behind these textiles and what their work reveals about creativity, community, and everyday life What traditional embroidery can teach us about imperfection, resourcefulness, and finishing our work The bold use of color in historic Greek textiles and why modern creatives should be less afraid to experiment How Ariadne is reimagining centuries-old motifs through contemporary design and wearable art Why preserving cultural traditions isn't about nostalgia, but about creating meaningful connections between past and present Connect with Ariadne: Website: https://ariadnekritonos.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariadnekritonos/ Newsletter: https://ariadnekritonos.com/newsletter-sign-up Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
S1 · E319
June 10 · 1 hr
Coming Home to Tradition: Sashiko, Storytelling, and the Art of Preservation with Atsushi Futatsuya
Margo is joined by Sashiko artisan, educator, and storyteller Atsushi Futatsuya for a conversation about creativity, cultural heritage, and the stories carried through handmade work. Born into a family deeply rooted in the Japanese tradition of Sashiko, Atsushi shares his journey from resisting the craft he grew up around to becoming one of its most passionate advocates and teachers. Through his work with Sashi.Co, Sashiko Story, and Upcycle Stitches, he helps people understand that Sashiko is far more than a stitching technique—it is a living cultural practice woven together by history, community, and care. Margo and Atsushi explore the role of rhythm, repetition, and mindfulness in creative practice, as well as the challenges of preserving cultural traditions in a rapidly changing world. They discuss the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation, the responsibility that comes with sharing inherited knowledge, and why stories matter just as much as skills. Margo and Atsushi discuss: What Sashiko is and the cultural history behind the traditional Japanese stitching practice Growing up in a Sashiko family and why Atsushi initially resisted the craft How the 2011 earthquake in Japan became a turning point in his relationship with his heritage The importance of sharing cultural traditions so they can continue to evolve and survive Why rhythm, repetition, and handwork can become powerful forms of mindfulness The distinction between visible mending and the deeper cultural context of Sashiko Navigating conversations around cultural appreciation, appropriation, and acknowledgment The stories, values, and human connections woven into every stitch How creativity helps us connect with history, identity, and community Why letting go of control is often an essential part of both stitching and life Connect with Atsushi:Website: https://sashikostory.com Instagram: @sashikostory Instagram: @upcyclestitches Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
S1 · E318
June 3 · 1 hr 20 min
The Case for Curiosity: Creativity, Awe, and Lifelong Learning with Lauren Henkin
Margo is joined by Lauren Henkin, founder of The Humane Space, a mindfulness and lifelong learning app designed to boost wellbeing and reduce stress by sparking curiosity, wonder, and awe. In this conversation, Lauren shares her journey from architecture and fine art photography to tech founder, and how following her own curiosity led her to create a platform built on the belief that wonder, awe, and lifelong learning are just as essential to our wellbeing as physical health. Together, they explore the role curiosity plays in creativity, personal growth, and human connection. They discuss how our environments shape the way we think, why many modern systems discourage curious thinking, and what we lose when we outsource our voices and ideas to technology. Lauren also shares the values that guide The Humane Space, including intellectual integrity, collaborative creativity, and a commitment to creating content made by humans, for humans. Margo and Lauren discuss: Lauren's unconventional path from architecture and photography to founding The Humane Space Why curiosity is a lifelong practice that supports wellbeing, creativity, and resilience How physical and digital spaces can be designed to inspire wonder and exploration The mission behind The Humane Space and its alternative approach to social media and technology The role of intellectual integrity, collaboration, and human-made creativity in an AI-driven world Practical ways to cultivate more awe, wonder, and curiosity in everyday life Connect with Lauren The Humane Space App: https://www.thehumane.space/ Lauren Henkin: https://www.instagram.com/laurenhenkin/ Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
S1 · E317
May 27 · 53 min
Creative Current Events: Beige Backlash, Unique Marketing Trends & The Most Valuable Place a Brand Can Be Right Now
Margo is joined by Abby for another edition of Creative Current Events—the series where they unpack the stories, launches, trends, and internet conversations shaping the creative world right now. This episode covers everything from the rise (and critique) of the "beige epidemic" in interiors to unexpected retail collaborations, bold beauty marketing, shifting brand landscapes, and artists doing interesting work outside the algorithm. Along the way, they discuss what these moments reveal about creativity, originality, accessibility, and where culture seems to be headed next. Mentioned in this episode: The Beige Epidemic – House Beautifulhttps://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a71336893/the-next-issue-beige-epidemic/ Colorful interiors and inspiration – The House That Lars Builthttps://thehousethatlarsbuilt.com/ Jonathan Adler collection at Michaels https://www.michaels.com/shop/jonathan-adler Review video of the Jonathan Adler collection https://www.instagram.com/reels/DXkZqF7kvtv/ GIMP's redesign: Photoshop familiarity without the subscription https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/open-source-gimp-reskin-gives-it-a-familiar-photoshop-look-without-the-hefty-fee/ Explore GIMP https://www.gimp.org/ Create! Magazine – Call for Art Submissions https://www.createmagazine.co/call-for-art Garden & Gun Magazine https://gardenandgun.com/ Cover artist feature – Brian Steely https://www.instagram.com/p/DYe7ldUx2YO/ The Bitter Southernerhttps://bittersoutherner.com/ The Ordinary's skewered beauty marketing approach https://www.creativereview.co.uk/the-ordinary-markup-marche-pop-up-supermarket-uncommon/ "The Most Valuable Place a Brand Can Be Right Now Isn't Online" https://www.instagram.com/p/DWZzckqEYuM/ Shein acquires Everlane discussion https://www.instagram.com/p/DYfcq7Ik49Y/ The "tone deaf" commencement speech conversation https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYNfbyEP82q/ Wylie Welling × Carhart https://wyliewelling.com/blogs/journal Artist & listener spotlight: Renee Reid https://www.instagram.com/reneereidcreations Connect with Abby: https://www.abbyjcampbell.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ajcampkc/ https://www.pinterest.com/ajcampbell/ Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
May 20 · 59 min
Beyond Beautiful Spaces: Turning Creative Passion Into a Meaningful Career with Rebecca Ward
Margo is joined by interior designer, mentor, and entrepreneur Rebecca Ward for a conversation about creativity, career pivots, and the impact our homes have on daily life. As the CEO and Principal Designer of Rebecca Ward Design, Rebecca has spent more than 20 years creating contemporary spaces that help families live beautifully and function intentionally. She shares how her love for interiors started in childhood and eventually evolved into a thriving design career and mentorship platform. Margo and Rebecca explore the many paths into interior design, including second-career transitions and turning creative passions into sustainable businesses. They also discuss the psychology behind our environments, the realities of running a design business, and why mentorship and boundaries matter so much for creatives. It's an honest and inspiring conversation about building a creative career that supports both artistry and real life. Margo and Rebecca discuss: Rebecca's early creative influences and path into interior design Why interior design is often a second or third career for creatives The emotional and psychological impact of our homes How thoughtful design improves everyday life and wellbeing The realities of running a successful interior design business Setting boundaries and managing client expectations The value of mentorship for aspiring designers Encouragement for creatives considering a career pivot or side hustle Connect with Rebecca: Website: Rebecca Ward Design Mentorship & Bootcamp: My Design Mentor Instagram: @rwarddesign Podcast: Design Curious Podcast Connect with Margo: https://www.windowsillchats.com https://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
May 13 · 1 hr 12 min
The Magic of Letting Go: Motherhood, Illustration, and Redefining the "Successful Artist" with Natalie Lundeen
Margo is joined by illustrator and children's book artist Natalie Lundeen for a candid conversation about creativity, motherhood, burnout, and redefining what it means to be a "successful" artist. Based in Clearwater, Florida, Natalie specializes in children's books, greeting cards, and licensed artwork, with illustrations spanning indie publishing, Etsy products, and now traditional publishing through Flamingo Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Her newest books, Dear Mom and Dear Dad, were released this spring. Natalie shares the winding path that led her from fine art and gallery work into illustration, how becoming a mother completely reshaped her creative process, and the surprising timing of landing a two-book publishing deal just days after deciding to step away from illustration professionally. Margo and Natalie explore the freedom that can come from releasing pressure, the realities of balancing creative work with financial stability, and why having a part-time job outside the art world doesn't make someone any less of an artist. It's an honest and refreshing conversation about building a creative life that actually supports your wellbeing—not just your résumé. Margo and Natalie discuss: Natalie's transition from oil painting and gallery work into children's book illustration How motherhood reshaped both her artistic style and creative priorities Building early illustration opportunities through Etsy, Instagram, and indie authors The realities of self-publishing projects, client boundaries, and revision expectations Landing a traditional publishing deal after deciding to step away from illustration full time Why returning to part-time cleaning work helped her enjoy art again Redefining success outside of the "full-time artist" narrative The importance of flexibility, creative friendships, and sustainable creative cycles How personal projects and experimentation can open unexpected doors Why artists shouldn't feel shame around taking outside work to support their creativity Connect with Natalie: Website: https://natlundeen.myportfolio.com/ Instagram: @natlundeen Connect with Margo: https://www.windowsillchats.com https://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
S1 · E314
May 6 · 1 hr 20 min
Embracing the Messy Middle: The Twisty, Turny Path to a Creative Life with Nicki Traikos
Margo is joined by artist, author, and educator Nicki Traikos for a conversation on creativity, perfectionism, and building a life rooted in art. Known for her approachable watercolor teaching style and the global community she's built through life i design, Nicki shares the winding journey that took her from a corporate career and makeup artistry into the world of watercolor, online education, and publishing. Margo and Nicki explore the realities of creative growth—the messy middle, the pivots, the comparison traps, and the courage it takes to keep showing up for your art. Nicki opens up about balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, the pressure artists face in the age of social media, and why embracing imperfection is often where the real breakthroughs happen. They also discuss her newest book, Watercolor Made Simple Workbook, and how approachable creativity can transform not only artistic confidence, but overall wellbeing. Margo and Nicki discuss: Nicki's unexpected path from corporate work and makeup artistry to becoming a full-time artist and educator The importance of embracing a "twisty, turny" creative journey instead of chasing overnight success How comparison and curated social media can hold artists back from starting Why messy sketchbooks and imperfect practice are essential to creative growth Letting go of perfectionism and learning to enjoy the tactile experience of making art The evolution from artist to teacher and building an online creative community during COVID The pressure to "find your style" and why multi-passionate creativity deserves space Practical ways to restart a creative practice and make art feel approachable again Connect with Nicki: Website: https://www.lifeidesign.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeidesign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifeidesign Substack: https://lifeidesign.substack.com Connect with Margo: https://www.windowsillchats.com https://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
April 29 · 1 hr 7 min
Rhinestones, Reinvention & the Art of Embracing Your Multi-Passionate Mind with Kim Bloomberg of Studio Art Beat (Replay)
In this replay episode, Margo is joined by multi-passionate creative Kim Bloomberg, the joyful force behind Studio Art Beat. A fine artist, educator, and self-proclaimed art supply nerd, Kim brings a refreshing perspective to the creative journey—one that's less about staying in your lane and more about following curiosity wherever it leads. With a background in both fine art and education, over two decades of teaching experience, and years running her own jewelry business, Kim shares how she ultimately found fulfillment by embracing her ADHD-fueled love for switching mediums and diving headfirst into new materials. After leaving behind the New York hustle for the artistic charm of Chicago's North Shore, Kim launched Studio Art Beat as an inclusive space to demystify art and make creativity accessible to all ages. She now leads workshops, partners with brands like Gelli Arts, and teaches online courses—including one that brings rhinestone bedazzling to the masses. Through her story, Kim reminds us that freedom, play, and experimentation are not distractions—they're the path. Margo and Kim discuss: Growing up in an art-loving family and the creative influence of her parents and grandfather. Letting go of a long-term jewelry business and the guilt that came with that decision. How embracing her neurodivergent brain led to business clarity and personal joy. Turning her natural desire to switch mediums into a strength rather than a struggle. Building an online art education platform that's welcoming, inclusive, and non-intimidating. Why sharing her process openly (rather than gatekeeping) has helped her business grow. Collaborating with brands while maintaining authenticity and community connection. The value of playful creativity for both kids and adults—and why it's never too late to start. How she's made rhinestones cool again with her Cricut-powered online course. The beauty in allowing your creative identity to evolve—and giving others permission to do the same. Connect with Kim: www.studioartbeat.com www.instagram.com/studioartbeat Connect with Margo: https://www.windowsillchats.com https://www.instagram.com/windowsillchats https://www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
S1 · E312
April 22 · 1 hr 4 min
More Play, Less Perfection: Embracing Experimentation and Finding Your Creative Rhythm with Lisa Solomon
Margo is joined by artist, author, and educator Lisa Solomon to discuss her newest book, Art, Craft, Color—a thoughtfully curated collection of essays, reflections, and creative projects designed to inspire a more playful, hands-on approach to making. Lisa's work explores the intersection of art, craft, and personal history, often blending unexpected materials and techniques to challenge traditional boundaries. Alongside her studio practice, she teaches at the college level and has authored several books on color and creativity. In this conversation, Lisa offers a behind-the-scenes look at her process while reflecting on experimentation, perfectionism, and the power of community. Margo and Lisa discuss: The origin story behind Art, Craft, Color and how the project came to life The collaborative process of curating artists, materials, and color palettes Blurring the lines between art and craft, and why that distinction matters less than we think Embracing experimentation and stepping outside your creative comfort zone Letting go of perfectionism and focusing on process over outcome The impact of social media on creativity—both the inspiration and the pressure Why working with your hands is more important than ever in today's world Building community and connection through shared creative practices Connect with Lisa: Website: www.lisasolomon.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/lisasolomon Connect with Margo:www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
S1 · E311
April 15 · 1 hr 2 min
Paint Brushes to Balance Sheets: Financial Literacy, Tax Knowledge and How to Break the Starving Artist Stereotype With Hannah Cole (Replay)
In this replay episode, Margo is joined by tax expert Hannah Cole who specializes in working with creative businesses and mission-driven solopreneurs. A long-time working artist herself, she's helped tens of thousands of self-employed people skill up with accessible tax and money education, through her Money Bootcamp program, speaking engagements from Florida to Alaska, and on the Sunlight podcast. She is the founder of Sunlight Tax. As artists carve their paths through various industries, they encounter a myriad of challenges, yet financial literacy is rarely addressed, leading to feelings of failure and shame. Today's conversation with Hannah sheds light on this systemic failure and turns it into a journey of empowerment and self-compassion (something all creatives should have)! Margo and Hannah discuss: The responsibilities that come with being a small business owner in the US Navigating self-employment taxes and optimizing deductions Personal struggles that Hannah faced within her own creative career and financial literacy What propelled her towards accounting education How she acts as a translator between the creative and tax worlds Simple advice artists can implement today when it comes to money management Her Money Bootcamp program and podcast How to save more money And more! Connect with Hannah: www.instagram.com/sunlighttax www.sunlighttax.com www.sunlighttax.com/podcast Connect with Margo: www.windowsillchats.com www.instagram.com/windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill
S1 · E310
April 8 · 1 hr 10 min
Three Good Things: A Practice in Perspective, Hope, and Everyday Joy with Emily Gaines Demsky
Margo sits down with artist, writer, and creator Emily Gaines Demsky for a conversation centered on creativity, perspective, and the quiet power of noticing what's good. Emily makes vibrant floral paintings (symbols of hope and possibility), and is the founder of Tell Me 3 Good Things, a Substack community practice centered on noticing, naming, and sharing simple moments of goodness each day. Through her work, she invites others to shift their perspective in meaningful, life-giving ways. Emily's approach blends art, writing, and daily ritual into a powerful reminder: even in difficult seasons, we have the ability to choose where we place our attention. From her father's lasting influence to the organic growth of her community, this conversation explores how small, intentional practices can create profound change. Margo and Emily discuss: How perspective is a daily choice—and how it shapes both creativity and resilience The origin and impact of the "Tell Me 3 Good Things" practice The role of grief, joy, and life transitions in shaping creative work How authenticity fosters deep, meaningful community The symbolism of flowers as hope, possibility, and light Toxic positivity versus building resilience How noticing and naming goodness can shift the way we experience our lives Connect with Emily: Website: www.emilygainesdemsky.com Tell Me 3 Good Things on Substack: emilygainesdemsky.substack.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/emilygainesdemsky Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry
S1 · E309
April 1 · 51 min
What's the Best That Could Happen? Madison Phipps on Building an Art Business in the Margins
Margo is joined by artist and illustrator Madison Phipps, the creative force behind Madison Phipps Studio. Known for her feminine, timeless botanical artwork rooted in nostalgia and storytelling, Madison shares how she's built a growing art business while balancing motherhood and a full-time job. From painting in the quiet margins of her day to landing dream collaborations and launching collections, this conversation is a refreshing and honest look at what it really takes to pursue creativity in the "messy middle." Margo and Madison explore the mindset shifts, practical strategies, and courageous decisions that helped her turn a personal creative practice into a thriving business, without waiting until everything felt "ready." Margo and Madison discuss: Using the question "what's the best that could happen?" as a roadmap for growth and decision-making How sharing her journey on TikTok helped her grow a community and gain visibility Pitching yourself before you feel ready—and how cold outreach led to major opportunities The inspiration behind her nostalgic, botanical artwork rooted in childhood memories Launching and sustaining a snail mail print club as a recurring revenue stream Lessons from collaborations, including her botanical collection with Paloma & Co Balancing ambition, creativity, and family life without burning out Connect with Madison Madison Phipps Studio: https://www.madisonphippsstudio.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madison.phipps.studio/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madisonphippsstudio Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

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