C2C Art Projects: Community + Conversation

C2C Art Projects was formed several years ago by friends and colleagues Lisa Pressman and Susan Stover, both R&F affiliated instructors. We interviewed them to learn more about their partnership and what is on the horizon for 2024 in terms of workshops.

Why did the two of you start C2C?

We were teaching online and wanted to collaborate on offering classes, as well as an affordable option for a resource-based inspiration library of sorts. Instead of the usual “community membership” where there are demos and more teaching, we wanted to elevate the conversation around art and create an awareness of what other artists are doing. We feel the sharing of information and inspiration is crucial to the growth of artists at any level.

Artwork by Susan Stover

What do you each bring to C2C in terms of a speciality?

We are both well versed in a variety of mediums and approaches to art making. We bring historical, cultural, and contemporary perspectives into the mix.

Sue’s background in textiles, painting, and sculpture broadens the conversation around “craft” and “art,” as well as exploring the possibilities of mixing different media. Lisa’s experience in ceramics, sculpture, and painting contributes to discussions around color and materiality. Through our combined experiences, we look to see connections in artists’ work and provide them the means to find their unique voices.

C2C co-founder Susan Stover.

Tell us about the courses you offer.

We offer a variety of courses in different mediums. We focus on the concepts and what’s behind the making, while giving critical feedback on the work. One example is our ongoing “Focus: Studio and Professional Practices” course that is critique-based and highlights a different topic each quarter.

Artwork by Lisa Pressman.

In January, we’re offering “Contemplative Practices in Art.” It’s a dive into meditative approaches and processes to creating. We will both be teaching at Essence of Mulranny in May. Lisa will be teaching “Narrative Abstraction: Confluence of Imagery and Materials” with R&F Pigment Sticks and cold wax and Sue will be teaching “Exploring Narrative through Symbols, Shapes, and Motifs” in encaustic.

We have Associate Instructors as well. In February 2024, Bonny Leibowitz will be teaching a mixed media course “Collage and Composition.”

C2C Art Projects is a two-fold operation. One side is online or in person teaching. The other side is the C2C Art Collective, which is an inspiration hub that includes videos, books, podcasts, artist talks, events, and community forums. We feature our artists on social media, newsletters, and our website.  

What have you learned about teaching online the past few years? 

We have been able to offer class once a week or every two weeks, which affords students more time to develop a project while receiving feedback. Being in your own studio and not having to travel is also appealing to many students. Having that longer continuum with students builds relationships and community. Several students who have repeatedly taken courses over the last few years have not only built a history with us, but with each other.

C2C co-founder Lisa Pressman.

You offer mentoring as well as instruction. What does a typical mentoring session include?

Mentoring is a valuable tool that can greatly benefit students in their artistic development. One of the primary advantages of having a mentor is the guidance and support they provide. A mentor can offer advice on technique, conceptual development, or preparing for a show. Mentoring offers a student the opportunity to receive individual feedback over a period of time. It’s a chance to ask specific questions and seek guidance.

We mentor together as well as individually and offer extended programs and single feedback sessions.

How do students benefit from having two instructors vs. one?

Having two instructors in a classroom setting can greatly benefit students in numerous ways. With two instructors, students are exposed to different teaching styles and perspectives. Each of us brings our own unique approach to teaching, which allows students to learn in a more varied and comprehensive manner. We love to collaborate on curriculum, resources, and concepts, offering students more than just technique.

Artwork by Susan Stover.

You can find all our upcoming courses at c2c-art.com/courses.