Junk and Disorderly: Art • Myth • Oddities From Real and Imagined Worlds

This week on Junk and Disorderly , we’re heading into the bayous of Louisiana in search of the Rougarou — the Cajun werewolf with claws, teeth, bad hair, and apparently a pretty active social life. Michael deMeng follows the legend from New Orleans to Church Point, from old French loup-garou tales to Cajun Lent curses, from family rumors to unwanted suitors, and finally to Bayou Goula, where werew...

In this short episode, I take a look at some teeny tiny shrines I've created, share a bit about what inspired them, and talk about a few upcoming classes where you can make your own. Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng • TikTok: @michaeldemeng

In this episode of Junk and Disorderly , I’m joined by Oaxaca retreat organizers Mija Matriz and Jon Labrousse for a conversation about Day of the Dead processions in Oaxaca — comparsas, calendas, and muerteadas — and why they feel like much more than parades. We talk about music you hear before you see, masks and costumes that feel more like presence than dress-up, and the way these events turn t...

In this episode of Junk and Disorderly , Michael deMeng is joined by artist, author, and crime-fiction historian Gary Warren Niebuhr to explore the cinematic adventures of literature’s most gloriously unreliable storyteller—Baron Munchausen. Together we dive into two wildly different film interpretations: Karel Zeman’s visually astonishing 1962 fantasy The Fabulous Baron Munchausen and Terry Gilli...

In Part Two of Christmas at the Movies , Michael deMeng and Gary Warren Niebuhr return to tackle holiday films where the kids take over and the adults barely stand a chance. From suburban wish-fulfillment mayhem ( Home Alone ), to dark folklore and feral Christmas mythology ( Rare Exports ), to one boy’s relentless, BB-gun-driven holiday obsession ( A Christmas Story ), these movies put childhood...

This week, Michael deMeng welcomes special guest Gary Warren Niebuhr for a deep dive into three of Gary’s favorite holiday films: Xmas in Connecticut , White Christmas , and It’s a Wonderful Life . These aren’t kid-focused Christmas capers—this trio is pure classic Hollywood, where adults juggle romance, identity crises, wartime memories, career chaos, and one very stressed-out angel trying to ear...

In this episode of Junk and Disorderly, I hang out with my pal and fellow art-stirrer Stephanie Lee to talk about the books that warped—er, shaped—our young minds. From creepy creatures under the bed to magical forests and talking critters, we chat about the children’s books that left a permanent mark on our imaginations (and probably explain a lot about the art we make today). Expect nostalgia, w...

Join me and art buddy Garry Warren Niebuhr for a chat about the amazing and influential film Metropolis.   Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng • TikTok: @michaeldemeng

In this episode of Junk and Disorderly , we’re taking a peek at some of the stranger holiday traditions—like the mysterious pickle hidden in the Christmas tree and a certain festive log with an… unexpected talent. And, of course, I’ll touch on a quirky tradition in my own home involving Krampus-themed pranks that add just the right touch of mischief to the season. It’s all about celebrating the we...

In this episode, Michael recounts a late-night cab ride in Mexico City that turned out to be anything but ordinary. From an unexpected decision to a ride full of surprises, he explores how even the smallest details can transform a simple journey into a story worth remembering. Tune in for a tale about risk, observation, and the unexpected beauty of the road less traveled. Follow Michael deMeng on...

In this episode of Junk and Disorderly , I reflect on the early days after my first book was published and how I made the mistake of obsessing over reviews. One particular one-star review stood out—not for its kindness, let’s just say. But what started as a harsh critique took a hilariously unexpected turn thanks to some snooping, a mysterious five-star rating, and an even stranger twist. Let’s ju...

In this thought-provoking episode, join Michael deMeng and Gary Warren Niebuhr as they dive into the age-old debate: what’s the real difference between craft and art? Is it the intention, the process, or something else entirely?  Whether you’re an artist, a crafter, or just curious, this episode promises to challenge your perceptions and spark your creativity. Tune in for a lively discussion that...

In this episode of Mischief and Masterpieces, we're taking a stroll down memory lane through the colorful history of art.  Join Michael deMeng and Gary Warren Niebuhr as we ponder the age-old question: why do we make art anyway? From ancient doodles to modern masterpieces, let's uncover the reasons behind humanity's creative obsession.  Sit back and join the conversation. Follow Mic...

For the Holidays I decided to share a strange tradition from my childhood, that involves a 5 foot tall Tyrannosaurus Rex.  A very strange Christmas tradition, indeed. Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng • TikTok: @michaeldemeng

In this episode Michael takes a gander at the creatures that lurk in your slumber.  Explore the Alebrijes creations from Mexico learn how they were inspired by a  fever dream.  Also travel to Greece and Japan and find out about their nighttime beasties. Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebo...

In this episode Michael be taking a look at the classic and influential 1922 film, Nosferatu.  He will chat about the production as well a some of the myths and legends that influenced it. Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng • TikTok: @michaeldemeng

In this episode Michael explores the legends of the cyclops.  The come from all over the world in all shapes and sizes...even as umbrellas.   Find out more about the one eyed guys and why they are so important to Michael's artwork. Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeM...

In this episode Michael explores the legends of the Xmas devil, Krampus.  He also takes a look at other the other devils of December and there ring leader...Frau Perchta.  He winds  up with a chat about a nasty Christmas orgress of Iceland, her blood thirsty kitty, and her mischievous sons...the Yule Lads. Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagra...

In this episode Michael explores the myths and legends surrounding beer. Beer godesses, never empty goblets, the invention of straws, the strange life and demise of Lord Barleycorn and the King of Beer sells his soul to the Devil. Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng •...

In this episode Michael explores doppelgängers, changelings and other unusual duplicates.  Are they warnings, protectors, or do they have something more nefarious in mind? Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_dem...

In this episode Michael explores the snake haired villain Medusa...but, the question is, was she really so bad? Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng •...

In this episode Michael explores strange plants of fable and lore, including the hungry grass of Ireland, the man-eating Madagascar tree and vampire pumpkins. Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Fac...

In this episode Michael explores the legends of Davy Jones, the Flying Dutchmen and the Chilean Ghost Ship the Calueche. Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Michae...

In this episode Michael deMeng explores the Danse Macabre and other stories of Death, ditties and dancing. He will examine everything from the Death shimmying folks to the afterworld, the boney Inuit dancer, dances to ward off tarantula bites, and more. Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog Follow Michael deMeng on s...

In this episode Michael deMeng explores the Loup Garou and the werewolf legends of French Canada. Additional insight and resources about the topic can be found at Michael deMeng's blog: www.michaeldemeng.com/blog Follow Michael deMeng on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:  • Instagram: @ michael_demeng_art • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaeldeMeng • TikTok: @mich...