Kim & Jason News

I was recently interviewed on two great podcasts that are definitely worth a listen: In an episode of The Idea Medic Podcast by Tara Roskell, we explore a bit of my journey from cartoonist to speaker and author, and talk about my artistic style and where I find inspiration. We also discuss ways to escape adulthood and the benefits of bringing fun to business. Meanwhile, my friend Neil Mathweg has started a podcast for people who live in (an especially recently moved to) Madison Wisconsin. I was honored to be the first guest on the I Love Madison Show, where we talked about finding your tribe and the powerful concept of Tinker Projects. Neil is a great host and produces an entertaining show! …

[Read more...] about Listen In For Ideas on Creativity, Finding Inspiration, and Tinkering

A few years ago, I had the chance to visit some art galleries in Scottsdale, Arizona. Although much of the art was truly impressive, I was taken aback by the extreme levels of Adultitis that permeated everything. Everyone was so serious and stuffy. Making art is a joyful experience for me – as I’m sure it is for many of the artists who had their work on display – but in those galleries, that joy was missing. Big time. Kim and I have worked hard to marry my art into my speaking programs in a meaningful way. This past year, we spent hours and hours brainstorming the idea of creating some sort of "art show" for our tribe. We wanted something fun and different that incorporated my storytelling abilities, but was free of the Adultitis that dominates so many traditional galleries and art shows. What finally emerged was Wondernite, a VIP art collecting event where I premiered never-before-seen originals. It was billed as inspiring evening of art, food, and storytelling. One …

[Read more...] about Wondernite 2017

Adventure. That’s what the fifth Escape Adulthood Summit was all about. But not the kind of adventure you encounter when you google the word “adventure." You know, like scenes of people hanging precipitously from a cliff’s edge with one hand. We talked more about everyday adventures; the opportunities to try something for the first time and see the magic in seemingly ordinary moments. Nothing against mountain climbing or sky diving, but we wanted to challenge attendees to embrace adventure on an even wider scale. Once again, this year’s shindig was held at the beautiful Barn at Harvest Moon Pond, nestled within the rolling Wisconsin countryside. Kim and I welcomed another sold-out crowd with hugs and high fives. It was exciting to see new faces and old friends — some of whom have been to all five Summits! Of course, Golden Tickets are required for admittance. Goodie bags and personalized name tags awaited each guest. I think those name tags are …

[Read more...] about 2017 Escape Adulthood Summit Recap

I've always respected the idea that Native Americans who hunted bison would put every inch of it to good use. Meat, bones, hide, everything. As a speaker who just so happens to be an artist (or is that an artist who happens to be a speaker?), I love it when someone makes the most of everything we have to offer. Oftentimes, my art gets used in the printed program and marketing materials that promote the event. Other clients give products featuring my art as thank you gifts to sponsors and volunteers. Sometimes it’s even incorporated into the stage design! A recent client went next level and it was awesome. Not only was I able to deliver their luncheon keynote, but they used my art in a multitude of ways that tied my message into their event brilliantly. It's not surprising that Baird was listed in Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For, as they put a lot of effort into the small details to create a wonderful experience for their people. For example, Kristin, the …

[Read more...] about How to Ensure Your Next Event Stands Out and the Message Sticks

If I have extra time when I am traveling for speaking engagements, one of my favorite things to do is visit art galleries. I love discovering new artists who inspire me. What I don't usually love is the vibe of the galleries themselves, and the so-called "art world" as a whole. Quiet as a museum and serious as a heart atttack, they often ooze pretension and feature prices that only an elite few could afford. Sometimes artists themselves contribute to this snobby, holier-than-thou aura. I believe that art is for everyone, whether it comes to making it or owning it. Art can address serious issues and be the catalyst for important change in the world, but there is plenty of room for art that's fun and makes people happy. My goal is to inspire, encourage and entertain as many people as possible with my art. I'm not against offering different levels of exclusivity in the form of originals and limited editions, but I want it to be accessible to everyone. I certainly don't care about …

[Read more...] about You Might Be an Art Collector If…

Last week we had the opportunity to participate in the first-ever Madison Night Market, which is a celebration of Madison’s unique and inspiring creative culture. It features handmade products, local art, artisan gifts, food carts, and live music. Little Luxuries, which is regularly voted as the best gift shop in Madison, carries some of our stuff. When Amy Moore, the owner, invited us to be a part of her store's booth, we jumped at the chance! It was the first time I'd be showing my new art in a public forum and I was excited (and a little nervous) for the opportunity to see people's reaction firsthand. We got to share the booth with Tami Reschke, owner of purple hair and jewelry maker extraordinaire. We complimented each other well, and Kim traded Tami some Bee Optimistic t-shirts for some sweet new necklaces. A few weeks earlier, I did a mock-up of our display in our garage, using some grid wall panels and accessories we had from our days doing gift shows. I was pretty …

[Read more...] about Making a Splash at the First Madison Night Market

I'll be at the Dream Bank in Madison on Thursday, November 10th. You should come. Here's what I'll be talking about: "Comparison may be the thief of joy, but it sure is hard to ignore people who have bigger paychecks, better health, more talent, less debt, longer vacations, larger homes, thinner waists, or nicer mother-in-laws than us. It’s not easy to be thankful when the lucky breaks always seem to land in someone else’s lap. Get into the spirit of the season with artist and author Jason Kotecki as he shares his fresh and funny take on gratitude. He’ll make you laugh, he’ll make you think, and he’ll help you perform jujitsu on jealousy and look at thankfulness in a whole new way." It's a free event, but you need to register. Do that here! …

[Read more...] about Must Be Nice: A Fresh and Funny Take on Gratitude