Exploring Art, Laughter and Resilience with Illustrator, Jason Seiler!

Navigating the realm of art and comedy can often feel like walking a tightrope, especially when politics enter the picture. This episode features a conversation with Jason Seiler, an esteemed illustrator whose work has graced the covers of Time Magazine multiple times. Together, we uncover the nuances of capturing political figures in art, and the responsibility that comes with it. Jason shares his insights about treating his artwork as a form of recording history - a perspective that is both thought-provoking and reveals the delicate balance needed when dealing with political personalities. When Jason Seiler isn't painting, he's making people laugh. A personal anecdote leads us into his journey into stand-up comedy, spurred by encouragement from Steve Byrne who noticed his artwork for a documentary. Jason's first set at the Chicago Improv wasn't just a daring leap, it was a springboard for more opportunities. He shares the struggles he faced, his eventual triumph, and how Byrne continued to support him, paving the way for a remarkable career that blurs the line between art and comedy. We also delve into the challenges faced by content creators in today's world, and the courage needed to handle criticism. A bold statement by Jason about his video going viral, offers a masterclass in resilience and transforms our understanding of how art, comedy, and personal growth intertwine. This episode promises a deep exploration into the world of art, comedy, politics, and the surprising ways they intersect. Don't miss out on this engaging journey that spans from the pages of Time Magazine to the stages of stand-up comedy.

JASON SEILER

Jason Seiler is a Chicago based artist and standup comedian, and producer of The Breaking the Law Comedy Show! Originally from Green Bay Wisconsin, Jason moved to Chicago in 1996 and created a career for himself in illustration, painting covers for publications such as Time Magazine, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, MAD magazine and more!!!

Always a comedian at heart, Jason had the pleasure of having the great Steve Byrne on his podcast, "Face the Truth", Steve invited him to try stand up for the first time and asked him to do a guest spot for him, at The Chicago Improv. I know, crazy right? Jason agreed to do it, the show went great, and he has since opened 5 more times for Steve, and the rest is history!
His silly sense of humor, dry wit, and likable disposition, help illustrate stories and jokes drawn from personal experience.

CHAPTERS

(0:00:00) - Art, Politics, and Freedom of Expression: Jason and I discuss art, stand-up comedy, reactions to his art, and balancing work with politicians.

(0:15:24) - From Punk Bands to Stand-Up Comedy: Jason Seiler's journey to stand-up comedy was encouraged by Steve Byrne, culminating in a successful five-minute set at the Chicago Improv.

(0:24:56) - Artist's Offense and Recognition Navigation: Risks of content creation, pride of Time Magazine cover, handling negative comments, importance of true fans, and Sam Kinison's advice discussed.

(0:28:49) - Viral Video and Artistic Resilience: Jason Seiler reflects on the power of comedy and risks of content creation, and how going viral 15 years ago changed his outlook on life.

PAUL VATO

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paul Vato⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is an actor, improvisor, comedian, poker player, podcaster & entrepreneur.

Connect with Paul Vato across all social media at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PaulVato.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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