Faux Fur, Circus Stories, Feelings, and Soft Power with Catie Burrill

Ep 71- noseyAF Live!:

Faux Fur, Circus Stories, Feelings, and Soft Power

with Catie Burrill

“Textile work has always been a silent language, especially among women.”- Catie Burrill

Summary of the episode:

The inaugural episode of noseyAF on Lumpen Radio introduces host Stephanie Graham and her signature blend of curiosity, creativity, and community. In this candid conversation, Stephanie sits down with Chicago-based fiber artist Catie Burrill to discuss the intersection of art, activism, and social change. Known for her whimsical and thought-provoking use of faux fur, Katie shares how her circus background, textile work, and commitment to sustainability shape her artistic vision. This episode sets the tone for the series—personal, probing, and full of laughter and insight.

Listeners are invited to reflect on how art can be a medium for activism, the history of textiles as silent communication, and the power of affirmations in mental health and creative practice.

Chapters:

• 00:10 - Introduction to Lumpin Radio
• 07:19 - The Art of Furgate: A Journey into Textile and Community
• 13:15 - The Circus Life: Behind the Scenes
• 29:13 - The Intersection of Madness and Art
• 43:02 - Art, Snacks, and the Uncomfortable Aisle
• 51:02 - Communicating Through Craft: The Art of Fiber and Affirmations

Topics discussed:

• Stephanie’s first day on-air as a radio host
• Catie’s journey through circus life, fiber art, and faux fur
• The emotional and cultural significance of textile art
• Art as activism and community engagement
• Affirmations, mental health, and creativity

Guest bio

Catie Burrill is a Chicago-based fiber artist whose work pulls from a decade of wayfaring across the US on Greyhound buses, circus trains, and non-descript cargo vans. Fascinated by the psyche, she uses textiles and found objects to explore the intersection of madness, cultural identity, and storytelling through stitchwork and the early internet.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Lumpen Radio
• Matt Bodett Mad Disability Advocate
• Stephanie’s Website

Episode sponsored by: This episode is brought to you by Graham Cracker Pins, affordable limited-edition wearable art by artists. Shop now.

Connect with Catie

Instagram: @yescatie

Website: catieburrill.com

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