EP. 863: BUILDING SOLIDARITY THROUGH ART AND FREE CHAMPAGNE ft. ROBYNN SMITH

In Episode 863 of *This is Revolution Podcast*, host Jason Miles welcomes multidisciplinary artist Robynn Smith, founder of Print Day in May, a global annual event that transforms printmaking into a radical act of collective creativity and resistance. Born from the grassroots response to arts education defunding in California, Print Day has evolved into a worldwide movement involving tens of thousands across over 100 countries. The conversation explores how tactile, analog art-making serves as a vital antidote to digital isolation and algorithm-driven culture, fostering identity, community, and political expression—especially during times of crisis like the pandemic. Smith and Miles critique the commodification of authenticity in art and music, emphasizing that true creativity thrives in collaboration, not gatekeeping. The episode also highlights the importance of preserving unstructured, joyful spaces for artistic exploration and the role of art in education as a pathway to belonging, particularly for marginalized communities. As the discussion unfolds, the hosts introduce the 'champagne room'—a Patreon-exclusive community space for movie nights, real-time interaction, and deep connection—framed not as a perk but as a ritual of solidarity. Personal anecdotes about cooking disasters, like turmeric-taco fiascos, serve as metaphors for the beauty of imperfection and the dangers of overcomplicating simple things. The episode culminates in a whimsical, heartfelt finale centered around impromptu gatherings, shared chaos, and the enduring power of friendship—symbolized by a mock rescue mission for a sleeping audience member, Bill Cody. Through humor, vulnerability, and a deep commitment to community, the episode affirms art and connection as revolutionary acts in an increasingly fragmented world.