Making conversations is a podcast run by two talented ladies: Robyn Galway and Jemma Millen. A jewellery artist and ceramicist in their own right, these two creatives decided to start a podcast to record and showcase makers’ journeys and how they have got to where they are in their careers. They have had conversations with all sorts of artists from glass blowers, textile artists and ceramicists.

My relationship with this duo stemmed from knowing Robyn from university. Having graduated, what feels like many moons ago, Robyn and I have always kept in contact, supporting one another in our own separate journeys. She has been such an inspiration with having the ability to juggle the life of an artist, preparing jewellery for exhibitions as well as running a very successful goldsmithing business through Etsy.

Jemma, I have only recently gotten to know, through listening to her podcasts and following her on social media. Her balancing of work and family life gives me drive and her quality of homeware in glazed terracotta is just first class!

Towards the latter part of lockdown 2020, I was privileged to be able to revisit my studio practise as I was the only person working in my studio. I relished in this precious time, piecing together new designs and building my website etc. However, it was so very quiet. I am used to the hustle and bustle of my shop being open, juggling the phone ringing, questions being asked, people calling in and out. It makes me feel energised, alive and I always took something away from every conversation I had.

I found sanctuary listening to this valuable podcast, week in and week out. I quickly realised that each of the makers that Robyn and Jemma interviewed held their own truly unique story about how they got to where they are today!

Family and friends helping with the renovation of Painted Earth

Painted Earth once we renovated it.
My private studio is located above the shop.

Lockdown made me reflect on my practise and realised that I had, in some way distanced myself from the creative community. Living in Castlewellan, with my husband and young child, I always had an excuse not to travel to social meetings and exhibitions; I was too tired, the baby needed fed etc, etc. I made the promise that when things opened up again I wanted to be part of a creative community; to learn from others, to share with others and to be brave!

When I was approached by Robyn to do the podcast, I was honoured and delighted! Making conversations wanted to hear my story and how I managed life owning a shop, being a Goldsmith, and a mother too. I thought this is my chance to get back into the community I had drifted from. I also thought that it was so important to share my story as it, too, was different from everyone else’s. When it came to actually recording the podcast I was initially nervous; what had I to say about anything?; who was I to give advice? But Robyn and Jemma made me feel so comfortable, and we did just have a genuine conversation about my journey to where I am now in my career and what I hope to continue doing.

For an aspiring artist, maker, creative, whatever you want to call yourself, it is an exciting relief to know that there are so many ways to get to where you want to go! Even if you take the long road to reach your desire, whatever you do along the way can only add to your personality and give you strength! If you want it, you can do it!

Hopefully you enjoy the listen to my conversation and let me know what you think!

Tanya

Making Conversations