Media Platform &
Creative Studio
Contemporary Currents is a podcast that
critically examines the contemporary art scene
through the lens of ecology, politics, an societal movements.
Co-hosted by Joana Alarcão and Shannon Castor, each episode delves into the work of an artist, exploring their unique perspectives and creative processes. From the visual composition to the underlying concepts, the hosts dissect and analyze the artwork, shedding light on the artists' intentions and the broader themes their pieces evoke. With a focus on activism and its intersection with creativity, this podcast offers an insightful glance at the thought processes behind these impactful works.

Season I
Co-Hosts

Joana Alarcão
Joana Alarcão is a transdisciplinary eco-artist, art journalist, creative director, curator, and researcher based in Portugal. She is passionately dedicated to merging art with social and environmental justice. Joana earned her Master's in Art and Ecology from the Burren College of Art in Ireland, alongside a Bachelor's degree in Sculpture from the Faculty of Fine Arts. Furthermore, she has completed several independent courses in transdisciplinary curatorial studies and journalism for social change.
With over 4 years of experience as an art writer and cultural journalist, Joana has contributed extensively to art magazines and NGOs, developing a distinctive voice in contemporary art criticism and eco-art discourse. Her writing practice has involved interviewing and profiling thousands of artists throughout her career, building a comprehensive understanding of diverse creative processes and contemporary art
movements. This extensive background in art journalism preceded and informed her founding of IOAEA (Insights of an Eco Artist) in 2021, where she continues to amplify artists' voices and perspectives.
Currently, also serving as a Collaborating Researcher at CIEBA, she integrates her writing expertise with curatorial and artistic practice, advocating for art's transformative power in addressing cultural and ecological challenges.

Shannon Castor
Shannon Castor is a multidisciplinary artist working in writing, film, and painting. She has been the recipient of multiple scholarships and awards such as the Gamblin Paint Award for Outstanding Achievement in Oil Painting and has been featured in the Southwest Art Magazine where she was interviewed for the 21 Under 31 series. She has participated in art residencies in Germany with Takt Leipzig and GlogauAIR. Shannon has a BFA in Cross Media from the Oregon College of Art and Craft and a MFA in Art and Ecology from the Burren College of Art, National University of Galway, Ireland.



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