In Conversation with Ashley Cole

In this episode of The Curatorial Blonde, Caira sits down with Hrag Vartanian — co-founder and editor-in-chief of Hyperallergic — to unpack the evolving role of art criticism in today’s cultural landscape. From the early days of building one of the most influential art publications to navigating the shifting boundaries between journalism, activism, and personal voice, Hrag offers candid insights on the responsibilities and challenges of covering the art world. The conversation spans memorable exhibitions, the politics of cultural institutions, and the power of writing to hold the art world accountable. Whether you’re an emerging artist, a seasoned curator, or simply art-curious, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how art criticism is shaping our understanding of culture today.

In this episode of The Curatorial Blonde, Caira sits down with contemporary abstract artist Ashley Cole, whose bold, expressive works channel the energy of color, memory, and personal symbolism. Ashley shares how her early environment shaped her creative voice and sparked her love for vibrant color and layered textures.Together, they discuss Ashley’s unique approach to abstraction, the significance of scale and color in her practice, and how painting becomes a tool for both storytelling and self-expression. Tune in as Ashley reflects on vulnerability, visibility, and the power of pouring oneself into the canvas.

In this episode of The Curatorial Blonde, Caira sits down with Asmaa Walton — Detroit-based arts educator and founder of the Black Art Library, a growing reference archive dedicated to Black visual art. We talk about the origin of the project, the role of ephemera in preserving cultural memory, and the importance of making art history accessible to all. From museum education to grassroots archiving, Asmaa shares how she’s reshaping how we learn about and engage with Black art.🎧 Tune in for a powerful conversation on legacy, learning, and liberation through the arts.For more information follow here: https://www.instagram.com/blackartlibrary/?hl=en

This week on The Curatorial Blonde, we are thrilled to welcome the immensely talented Layo Bright! Known for her captivating sculptures and mixed-media works, Bright explores themes of migration, inheritance, and identity through materials like glass, clay, wood, and textiles. Her art resonates deeply, reflecting fragile yet complex relationships with personal, natural, and built environments.In this episode, we discuss:✨ Her solo museum debut Dawn and Dusk at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum.✨ The role of ancestral narratives and natural forms in her work.✨ Her global journey from Lagos to international exhibitions and residencies.Bright's ability to weave personal history with universal themes makes this an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss!📅 Available now on all major podcast platforms....... #LayoBright #TheCuratorialBlondePodcast #ContemporaryArt #ArtistInterview #ArtInFocus

New Episode: The Curatorial Blonde x Arvie SmithIn this episode of The Curatorial Blonde, I sit down with the incredible Arvie Smith, a painter whose vibrant, politically charged works confront the legacies of racism, power, and representation in America. We discuss his artistic journey, the influence of storytelling in his practice, and how his bold, layered compositions challenge dominant narratives. Smith shares insights into his process, the role of satire and memory in his work, and his perspectives on the evolving landscape of contemporary Black art.Tune in for a compelling conversation with one of today’s most thought-provoking artists. Available now on all streaming platforms! 🎙✨ #TheCuratorialBlonde #ArvieSmith #BlackArtMatters #ContemporaryArt

🎙️ New Episode Alert: A Conversation with Natasha Roberts This week on The Curatorial Blonde, we are honored to host Natasha Roberts—a visionary publicist turned art advisor and strategic consultant. Known for her ability to bridge creativity and strategy, Natasha works with artists, brands, nonprofits, and cultural organizations to craft impactful campaigns and culturally resonant experiences. In this episode, we explore:✨ Her journey from PR and luxury events to founding The KNOW.✨ The art of building public engagement and cultivating buzzworthy campaigns.✨ Her groundbreaking role as the first-ever Publicist at Public Art Fund.✨ Insights from her post-graduate studies in curatorial practice, contemporary art, and even perfumery! Natasha’s expertise and passion for advocacy have positioned her as a dynamic force in the art world. Don’t miss this conversation with one of the most innovative strategists shaping contemporary art and public engagement today. 📅 Available now on all major podcast platforms. #NatashaRoberts #TheCuratorialBlondePodcast #ArtAndCulture #ArtAdvisor #CreativeStrategy

In this week’s episode, we're thrilled to welcome multidisciplinary artist Basil Kincaid! Known for their powerful explorations of memory, identity, and liberation through quilting, performance, and sculpture, Basil dives deep into the roots of their practice, the influences that shape their artistry, and the role of community in their work. Tune in as we explore Basil's journey, their unique creative process, and how they see the future of art-making in relation to healing and transformation. You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation! Catch Ep. 62 on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow along on social media for behind-the-scenes content! Listen now and join the conversation and check out our guest on instagram @Basil Kincaid (@basilkincaid)   #TheCuratorialBlonde #BasilKincaid #ArtPodcast

Tune in this week for a special monthly episode of The Curatorial Blonde where we take a look at the current state of the art market in the midst the fall art season.

This episode, we’re joined by the incredible artist Adebunmi Gbadebo! Renowned for her powerful sculptures and works using materials like human hair, indigo, and cotton, Adebunmi sheds light on her profound approach to reclaiming history, memory, and the Black experience through her art. Listen in as we discuss her journey, the symbolic materials she uses, and the stories embedded in her work. Adebunmi's practice pushes the boundaries of traditional mediums, creating pieces that challenge and inspire. Catch Ep. 61 on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite streaming platform. Don’t miss out—subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for more art and culture insights! Listen now and join the conversation 🌍 #TheCuratorialBlonde #AdebunmiGbadebo #ArtPodcast

In this episode of The Curatorial Blonde Podcast, Episode 59, we’ll be joined by Siobhan An Jie Russell Wood, a multifaceted artist whose work spans photography, sculpture, modeling, video making, and poetry. Her diverse background as a former fashion assistant informs her multi-disciplinary studio practice, characterized by a collaged process that reflects the overwhelming flow of contemporary information. Siobhan's art addresses her experiences navigating complex social and racial contexts shaped by her lineage tied to both the enslaved and the enslavers, a result of British and Dutch colonialism. Through her exploration of imperialist histories, she critically examines representations of the commodified ‘Other’ and diaspora culture in today’s digital landscape. . . . . . . . . . #artpodcast #thecuratorialblonde #BlackArt #cairamoreira #womenartists #diasporicart