From Nosey to Necessary: The Impact of Evanston Made

Welcome to episode 67: From nosey to necessary: The Impact of Evantson Made with Lisa Degliantoni"I started this work at 40, which just goes to show that it’s never too late to begin something new and impactful" - Lisa DegliantoniSummary of the episodeToday's conversation centers on the vital role of community arts education and advocacy, delivered with profound insights from Lisa Degliantoni, a dedicated advocate for artists in her community. As the founder and co-director of Evanston Made, Lisa embodies a commitment to fostering visibility and support for artists, emphasizing the necessity of kindness and engagement in a world that often feels overwhelming. Throughout our conversation, we explore how Lisa's journey into arts advocacy began later in life, reminiscent of notable figures who found their calling beyond traditional timelines. She elucidates the importance of creating community among artists, highlighting that the isolation often experienced can be alleviated through collective support and shared experiences. This episode serves not only as a reminder of the power of community but also as an invitation to engage actively in fostering the arts within our own neighborhoods.Topics Discussed:local initiatives can foster support and visibility for artists.Lisa’s journey into arts advocacy demonstrates that significant career transitions can occur later in life, inspiring individuals to pursue their passions.How Evanston Made serves as a model for community-driven arts organizations, focusing on the needs and aspirations of local artists.Meet Lisa -Lisa is a community advocate for artists and makers and is a passionate Community Arts Builder in Evanston. Working as the founder and co-director of the nonprofit arts organization, Evanston Made, Lisa’s enthusiasm for community art building drives the organization's mission-based programs and events that bring visibility and opportunity to the artists in the community.Chapters:00:08 - Introduction to Community Arts and Kindness03:40 - The Heart of Community Engagement in Evanston19:10 - Creating Community Through Art Advocacy31:24 - Navigating Community and Self-Awareness43:23 - Community Engagement and Cultural RenaissanceResources mentioned in this episodeSeriously Baddass Women Interview with Lisa DegliantoniEvanston MadeLefty’s BagelsMensch’s DeliTerrain BiennialZentli on DempsterConnect with LisaEvanston Made on InstagramLisa’s Instagram: @thelisadshowhttps://www.lisadegliantoni.com/Connect with StephanieInstagram: @stephaniegraham

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Want to make creative work that actually matters?
On noseyAF, you'll eavesdrop on honest, behind-the-scenes conversations between working artists, filmmakers, and community organizers who are building bold, culture-shifting projects—and sharing exactly how they do it. I'm Stephanie Graham, a multidisciplinary artist and filmmaker, and these are the conversations I actually want to have: unfiltered talks about creative breakthroughs, activist hustle, messy pivots, and daily practices that make a difference. Sure, we cover the basics—who they are, what they do, and how they got started—but we also get nosy: How do they make decisions? What keeps them going? How do they pay their bills and stay true to their vision? Every other week, I share these raw, energizing convos that fuel my own practice—and might just spark something in yours. Whether you're an artist, curator, cultural worker, or someone who loves peeking behind the curtain, you’ll walk away with practical strategies, real talk, and unexpected inspiration. The best stories live in the details—and the most powerful creativity happens when we get wonderfully nosy about what really drives us.