Welcome to another engaging chapter of Fine Arts and Friends, where I reconnect with returning guest Andre Gary to explore the fascinating world of roller skating sponsorships and mentorship. Andre shares his inspiring journey from his early skating days in 2009 to achieving the prestigious status of Vanilla Pro. We reflect on the personal growth and mindset shifts that accompany moving through sponsorship levels, and the significance of being a mentor and role model to aspiring skaters. Andre's stories illustrate the thrill and responsibility of being chosen for the Vanilla team and the transformative impact it had on his life and career within the skating community.

In this episode, he also shares his personal journey in community building through teaching and organizing events. From being mentored by influential figures like Tony, Jeff, and Anthony, to mentoring young breakdancers at Danzversity and Austin Gymnastics, we explore the importance of guidance and community in personal and professional growth. The transition from a participant to an organizer in the breakdancing scene is highlighted, emphasizing the joy of nurturing young talents and witnessing their growth. Additionally, we delve into the adventurous spirit of jam skaters, recounting personal anecdotes of overcoming challenges to participate in competitions, showcasing the resilience and camaraderie within the skating community. Join us for an episode filled with passion, mentorship, and the shared commitment to inspire the next generation of creatives.

(00:00) - Skating Sponsorships and Mentorship Impact

(10:27) - Community Building Through Teaching and Events

(19:37) - Collaboration in Skating Culture

(00:00) - Creative Process in Fine Arts
(08:31) - Exploring Jam Skating and Breakdancing
(20:37) - Battle of Roller Skate Sponsorships
(30:51) - Journey to Sponsorship Success

Remember those school dance floors where the real magic happened? For Andre Gary, they were the first stages of a lifelong performance, where he began his journey through the world of movement. From those early moments, Andre's passion for dance evolved into a vibrant career as a breakdancer and skater. With stories of mentorship and friendship, he illustrates the power of community in shaping his unique style. Join us as we chat about Andre's transformative years at UT and ACC, where his dance repertoire expanded to include the dynamic art of skating.

Imagine the thrill of merging breakdancing with jam skating! With roots deep in breakdance, Andre shares the exhilarating experience of bringing these moves to roller skates. This isn’t just about skating; it’s about breaking boundaries and exploring a new world of creativity. Together, we reminisce about the electric atmosphere of battles and team performances, revealing the expansive opportunities for competition and sponsorship in the jam skating community. Andre's competitive spirit shines as he recounts the journey from local rinks to finding his place among kindred spirits in the skating world.

The path to sponsorship in jam skating is a testament to perseverance and passion, and Andre's story is no exception. Listen as we revisit the rivalries and camaraderie that defined pivotal moments in the skating scene, from unforgettable battles to the joy of being recognized by major brands. Andre paints a vivid picture of the journey to sponsorship success, sharing personal victories and the deep sense of accomplishment that comes with it. Through captivating stories of early days skating for love, the relentless pursuit of mastering new moves, and the support of a tight-knit community, this episode celebrates the heart and hustle behind becoming a sponsored skater.

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Join us on Fine Art and Friends for an inspiring chat with Leah Bury, a talented multimedia creative based in Austin, Texas. Leah shares her recent obsession with music production, focusing on her experimental approach and fascination with glitchy sounds and vocal layering. Discover how her spontaneous decisions to explore new mediums have led to a diverse portfolio that includes photography, scanography, poetry, digital illustration, and graphic design. Leah opens up about the significance of expressing oneself through various artistic forms and how her foundational love for writing continues to influence her multifaceted work. Hear about the joys and challenges of evolving as an artist and the fulfillment of creating art that truly reflects her inner world.

We also explore the motivation behind themed events and their impact on pushing artistic boundaries. Learn how these events inspired Leah to develop entire photo series and the dedication required to produce numerous shoots within tight timeframes. The conversation highlights the personal artistic growth that comes from such endeavors and the valuable opportunities they create for other creatives in Austin. Leah's commitment to crafting these events demonstrates the significant influence they have on the local artistic community, showcasing the powerful role of themed events in driving creativity and collaboration.