The Incandescent Life of an Artist with Michael Cepress

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Michael Cepress is a "triple citizen of the arts," actively engaged in performing arts, visual arts, and fashion design. In this interview, he reflects on his early discovery of creative passion and highlights his drive to express it in multiple forms, emphasizing the universal human impulse to create. Michael encourages everyone to allow their creative instincts to surface in whichever ways feel authentic. He urges us to recognize the limitless potential for good that arises when artistic expression is used to serve and uplift the collective, illustrating how the interplay of different art forms can inspire meaningful community action. Cepress also explores how art offers perspective and healing in challenging times. (hosted by Justine Willis Toms)h

Bio

Michael Cepress is a multidisciplinary artist celebrated for his dynamic creativity—he is a musician, a storyteller and poet, a craftsman, a designer, and a cultural curator. In addition to his musical talents he has excelled in textile arts and fashion design, with exhibitions of his work showcased internationally. Michael recognizes the boundless potential for good that arises when artistic expression serves and uplifts the greater good, weaving together the varied forms of art into purposeful community action.

To learn more about the work of Michael Cepress go to www.michaelcepress.com

Topics explored in this dialogue include:

• How Cepress was encouraged to draw and sew at an early age
• Why Cepress does not limit himself to any one way of artistic expression
• When did Cepress become enamored of the countercultural movement of the 60s
• Cepress teaches “Hippie Fashion 101” at the University of Washington, School of Art
• How art provides a way to gain perspective and healing during challenging times
• How his performing music is an immersive experience engaging the audience visually, auditorily, and sensually
• How our personal style of clothing can be an artistic expression
• What is the impact of alternative fashion on community
• What is the importance of light in art
• What is Cepress’ practice of creative work each day
• How quilting is a practical and creative art form with a long history

Host: Justine Willis Toms    Interview Date: 9/11/2025   Program Number: 3850