On This Episode of The Memo Show:

I got to speak with Johnny Schwinn aka Pixelsbyoptimu5, whose art I discovered at Megabyte Nation Game Expo and was too cool to not share with my listeners and viewers.

Inspired by 8, 16, and 32-Bit video games, he depicts nostalgic, classic, and traumatic scenes and characters using colorful mixed media .

He tells us about growing up in a very musical and art filled home and how he got started networking with other artists live streaming live art.

We talk about our love for video games, the effect it had on us during childhood, and how he enjoys creating art that resonates with people who are fans of classic games as well.

The conversation moves to his love of conventions and how they provide a platform for artists to showcase their work.

We also touch on future projects and commissions he is currently working on.

Throughout the interview I’ve had permission to display his artwork for you. The video version of this interview is available on Youtube and Spotify!

You Never Know, on The Memo Show!

Links:

Johnny's Art Insta

This is a Train Wreck (Johnny's Band) Insta

Aztekaart_soul's Insta

Transplants Brewing Co.'s Insta

Keywords: 8-bit art, video games, nostalgia, creative process, conventions, art commissions, Mega Man, Zelda, Mario, pop culture

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Johnny Schwinn and His Art

(02:59) The Influence of Video Games on Art

(17:42) The Journey of a Creative Mind

(23:11) Nostalgia and Gaming Experiences

(30:26) Future Projects and Commissions

(37:45) Conventions and Community Engagement

(44:52) Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

(46:48) Outro

On this episode of The Memo Show:

Aaron Guy Leroux, a seasoned photojournalist, shares his journey from a small-town upbringing in Connecticut to becoming a prominent figure in documenting social movements around the world. He discusses his experiences covering the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong, the refugee crisis in Lesvos, and the Black Lives Matter protests in Los Angeles. Aaron reflects on the challenges and risks of photojournalism, the influence of his family on his artistic journey, and the importance of curiosity in storytelling. He also touches on the impact of modern media consumption and the complexities of navigating truth in journalism today.

You Never Know, on The Memo Show!

Podcast Video: YouTube (Like & Subscribe Please!) Spotify

Other Links: Link Tree

Aaron's Links: Aaron's Website Aaron's Insta

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Aaron Guy Leroux

(06:54) Aaron's Journey: From Connecticut to California

(10:56) The Spark of Photojournalism

(13:35) Family Influence and Early Inspirations

(17:33) Finding a Niche in Street Photography

(20:09) Cruise Ship Chronicles and Networking

(22:57) The Transition to Photojournalism

(24:56) Experiencing Protests: A Turning Point

(28:48) Hong Kong: The Umbrella Movement

(36:00) The Nature of Water: A Photographic Journey

(40:15) Designing the Book: Collaboration and Challenges

(43:01) Black Lives Matter and New Projects

(43:52) Navigating a Pandemic and Protests

(49:09) The Duality of Childhood and Social Unrest

(56:49) The Courage of Photojournalism

(57:24) Experiencing the Refugee Crisis in Greece

(01:08:21) The Question of Our Time

(01:13:20) Curiosity-Driven Storytelling and Future Projects

(01:20:02) Outro

On This Episode of The Memo Show:

I talk with Michael Grepp, one half of Loserville Animation Studios, who shares with us his love for cartoons like Looney Tunes, Ren & Stimpy and of course Adult Swim

He shares his journey in the animation and voice acting industry, discussing the creative process, the importance of collaboration, and the challenges of navigating the industry.

He tells how they went viral a few years ago guerrilla animating shorts for Last Podcast on the Left and what it’s like to be in a room with execs pitching shows and getting name called by Eric Andre of all people.

He gives us pointers on networking, overcoming rejection, and maintaining a balance between quality and productivity in creative work which he provides virtually with his company The Talent Spot.

We learn from him the value of teaching and sharing knowledge with others in the creative field, while also providing insights into his current and future projects.

Also cartoons are included in the video version on YouTube and Spotify!

You Never Know, On The Memo Show!