In this conversation, Robyn McClendon, an arteomythologist, shares her journey from cultural anthropology to gel printing, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in art. She discusses her techniques, inspirations, and the role of community in fostering creativity. Robyn highlights the significance of social media in connecting artists and the need for copyright protection in the art industry. She also shares exciting upcoming projects that aim to empower artists and promote their work.
**********
Sign up to get one (two if we have a bonus episode) email per week from Beyond the Brayer with full show notes for your convenience. Subscribe here.
**********
Watch on YouTube
Please subscribe so you can watch our weekly interivews – and occasional bonus episodes.
**********
Join Our Community
Join the Gel Print Enthusiasts group on Facebook to talk about gel printing and the podcast.
**********
Support the Show
If you’re enjoying Beyond the Brayer, please consider buying me a “cup of coffee.” All coffee fees go toward upgrading either equipment or software.
We’d also appreciate a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podchaser.com.
**********
Reach Out:
- Beyond the Brayer on YouTube
- Cindy’s Personal Facebook Page
- Beyond the Brayer Facebook Page
- Beyond the Brayer on Instagram
- Cindy’s Personal Instagram
Links from the Show:
Marija Gimbutus, Lithuanian Archaeologist / Archaemythologist
Roben-Marie Smith, Gel Print Tutorial on YouTube
Speedball Block Printing Ink Set
Arte Povera (Poor Art Movement)
Robyn’s Book: Gel Plate Printing for Mixed-Media Art
Robyn’s Book in French: Gel printing pour mixed-média
Robyn’s Stamp / Stencil Set – Asian Scripts
Robyn’s Stamp / Stencil Set – European Scripts
Robyn’s Links:
Robyn’s Facebook Group – Gel Printing Collective with Robyn McClendon
Chapters:
00:00 The Journey of an Arteomythologist
07:07 Exploring Gel Printing Techniques
12:23 The Art of Visual Storytelling
18:42 Cultural Inspirations in Art
25:59 The Joy of Creative Expression
38:31 The Importance of Community in Art
44:53 Embracing Uniqueness: The Rare Bird Philosophy
46:39 Upcoming Projects and Artistic Innovations
Key Takeaways:
- Cultural anthropology informs artistic expression and storytelling.
- Gel printing serves as a medium for personal and cultural narratives.
- Community plays a crucial role in the creative process and support.
- Art should be a joyful and expressive endeavor, free from constraints.
- Social media can enhance connections among artists and foster collaboration.
- Understanding techniques is essential for successful gel printing.
- Artists should protect their intellectual property to ensure fair compensation.
- Art can serve as a form of quiet resistance and social commentary.
- Upcoming projects aim to empower artists and promote their stories.
- The journey of an artist is enriched by cultural influences and personal history.
If you enjoyed this episode, We’d appreciate a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podchaser.com. This helps other people find the podcast. If you’re into gel printing, please join the Gel Print Enthusiasts group on Facebook. If you’re not on Facebook, follow Beyond the Brayer on Instagram for podcast news and more!
Next week I’m joined by a popular Instagram gel printer and teacher, Diana Garrison. We talk about her new classes and a whole lot more! Join us for Episode 04 and meet the “Color Gods” and the “Paper Pixies!”



