S1 E4: Let Me Know When Stacy Comes Back with Stacy Solodkin | Friends & Acquaintances
Life in Parallel with Matt Marr and Kenneth SuarezSummary
A recent conversation highlights the transformative journey of Stacey Salatkin, a ceramic artist who transitioned from a successful career as a talent agent to pursuing her passion for art. Growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, Salatkin faced societal expectations that often stifled her creative ambitions. Despite receiving a scholarship to the Art Institute of Chicago, she chose a more traditional path, which ultimately led her to agenting in the entertainment industry for over two decades.
Salatkin's life took a pivotal turn when she was diagnosed with cancer, prompting her to reevaluate her priorities. After healing, she decided to leave the agency world behind, embracing her identity as an artist. She describes her work with ceramics as an "experimental building" process, where she finds joy in creating pieces that reflect her soul. Salatkin emphasizes the importance of being present and allowing oneself to pursue what truly brings happiness, stating, "What's the point in the money if I can't enjoy it?"
Her journey has been significantly aided by social media, which has allowed her to connect with a broader audience and gain representation in multiple galleries. Salatkin encourages others to follow their passions without fear of judgment, asserting that creativity is inherent in everyone. As she continues to build her artistic career, she remains focused on spreading joy and serving as a "portal" for others to explore their own creativity.
Show Notes
At 18, Stacy Solodkin had a scholarship to the Art Institute of Chicago. She didn't go. In her family, art was a hobby. You got a real job. So she got one. Stacy spent 25 years building a talent agency that started with a fax machine and a pager. Then came stage III cancer, a comeback, and one question she couldn't shake. Now she's an experimental builder working in raw porcelain and fiber, with her artwork in six galleries. We talk about: why negotiating is a creative act Beth Stein, her agent alter ego why she doesn't teach classes, and what to do instead (it costs about $20) Her plan for age 80 is a museum show. She calls that delulu. We call it a plan. Know a do-lover? Someone building an extraordinary life just outside your social media zip code? Nominating yourself counts. Email us at [email protected]. Enjoying the show? Review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. (Thank you, sugars.) Watch on YouTube · Follow us on Instagram · TikTok · Bluesky · lifeinparallelpod.com Find Stacy: stacysolodkin.com · Instagram Mentioned: The KonMari Method School of the Art Institute of Chicago Sanford Meisner The Creative Act by Rick Rubin Art & Fear by David Bayles and Ted Orland Walkout songs (she couldn't pick one): "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars Any Prince song "I'm Alive (Life Sounds Like)" by Michael Franti & Spearhead Breaking the algorithm: Florence Given, "a portal of permission."
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