PODCAST

Behind the Bower

Media Squatch

The official podcast from the Bower Center of the Arts.

arts visual arts

All Episodes

32:28

Liz Chidester and Nilko Andreas

Behind the Bower ·

2025/05/13

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood chats with Liz Chidester and Nilko Andreas, the talented duo behind the NYC-based Latin Americana group. Liz opens up about her early music days in Virginia, while Nilko shares how classical training in Bogotá, Colombia shaped the journey. They dive into how they write songs together and the cultural influences that show up in their music. Throughout the conversation, they highlight how music can connect people beyond language. The episode wraps

31:46

Kaye Lipscomb

Behind the Bower ·

2025/05/06

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan Steffen chats with local artist Kaye Lipscomb about her upcoming solo show, Inside Out, at the Bower Center for the Arts. Kaye opens up about her journey as an artist, how she creates her work, and the deeper meanings behind what she makes. She encourages folks to approach art with an open mind and just experience it without overthinking. Kaye also talks about the wide range of materials and techniques she plays with in her pieces. The episode gives a

24:44

Dawn Edwards - Felt Artist

Behind the Bower ·

2025/04/22

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood chats with Dawn Edwards—an incredible fiber artist and feltmaking. Dawn talks about how her creative journey kicked off with a simple needle felting class and how her background in stained glass and pottery still weaves its way into her work today. She shares how daily walks with her dog fuel her inspiration and keep her connected to nature. They also dive into her involvement with Felt United, a global group of felt makers, and her upcoming

21:42

Cloverlea Foundation

Behind the Bower ·

2025/04/15

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin—Executive Director of the Bower Center for the Arts—chats with Trish Cerulli, the founder of the Cloverlea Foundation. Trish shares a bit about her background and the foundation’s mission to promote environmental education and sustainability, all in honor of Boyd Claytor’s legacy at the Claytor Nature Center, and the broader contributions of the Claytor family. They dive into some cool projects the foundation’s working on, from teaming up with

31:45

Belle Thomas - Professional Fiber Artist

Behind the Bower ·

2025/04/08

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood chats with Belle Thomas, a super talented self-taught fiber artist who’s all about needle felting. Belle talks about how she made the jump from painting to fiber art, and shares what drives her when she teaches. She also opens up about some of the fun and heartwarming moments she’s had with students—proof of how powerful and joyful creativity can be. Belle encourages everyone to try making art, no matter their experience, and gives us a peek into

23:01

Updates and more!

Behind the Bower ·

2025/04/03

34:19

The National D-Day Memorial

Behind the Bower ·

2025/04/01

In this episode of "Behind the Bower," host Ryan Stephan, communications coordinator for the Bower Center for the Arts, converses with John Long, director of education at the National D-Day Memorial. They discuss the memorial's significance, the stories of the Bedford Boys, and the educational programs offered. John shares his personal journey and passion for history, influenced by his family's military background. The episode highlights the memorial's role in preserving D-Day's legacy, volunteer

16:05

Youth Art - Jefferson Forest High School

Behind the Bower ·

2025/03/25

In this episode of Behind The Bower, Lauren Hood, program coordinator at the Bower Center for the Arts, welcomes students from Jefferson Forest High School along with their art teachers. Featured students Mjrn and Emily share their creative journeys and the role art plays in their lives. Marin, who has a passion for 3D art, draws inspiration from Brian Froud, while Emily, who favors ink and graphite, is influenced by her uncle, Charles Cashwell . Art teachers Ms. Tonkins and Mrs. Brumfield also join

26:01

Linda Atkinson

Behind the Bower ·

2025/03/11

In this episode of Behind the Bower, we’re diving into the Curry Bower Exhibition, a celebration of community creativity. Esteemed artist and sculptor Linda Atkinson, this year’s judge for the 11th annual exhibition, shares her artistic journey, teaching experiences, and what fuels her creativity. She also talks about her admiration for the incredible talent on display. Tune in for an inspiring conversation, and don’t miss the exhibition awards reception—it's a perfect chance to celebrate local

31:21

Peggy Markham

Behind the Bower ·

2025/03/04

In this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Susan Martin, executive director of the Bower Center for the Arts, sits down with studio artist and instructor Peggy Markham for a fun and inspiring chat. Peggy talks about her journey as an artist, her approach to teaching, and why art matters so much in the community. She also shares details about her upcoming mosaic basics class and future workshops. Susan and Peggy dive into the importance of creativity—especially for young artists—and making

28:41

Opera on the James

Behind the Bower ·

2025/02/25

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin from the Bower Center for the Arts chats with Peter Leonard, Artistic Director of Opera on the James. As they celebrate the opera company’s 20th season, they dive into upcoming performances, community events, and the Tyler Young Artist Program. Peter shares his musical journey and why bringing opera to new audiences is so important. They also talk about fun, family-friendly collaborations and educational opportunities. Tune in to hear how you

32:57

Paddy Dougherty

Behind the Bower ·

2025/02/18

In this episode of Behind the Bower, Lauren Hood, the program coordinator at the Bower Center for the Arts, sits down with artist Paddy Daugherty for a fun and insightful chat. Paddy shares her journey through music, theater, writing, and coaching, diving into how honesty shapes her creative process. She opens up about the ups and downs of the modern music industry, the shift to digital platforms, and the power of collaboration. Plus, she gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming performances and

31:44

Updates - 2.4.25

Behind the Bower ·

2025/02/04

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan and communications coordinator Ryan Steffen chat about all the exciting things coming up at the Bower Center for the Arts in 2025! They dive into key programs like the Susie V. Meister Emerging Artist Residency, fun classes for all ages, and new additions like CAB Kids and Bower After Hours. Plus, they talk about how the arts bring people together and make the community stronger. You won’t want to miss sneak peeks at upcoming events, including a murder

14:11

Lauren Gaunt Beginner Landscaping

Behind the Bower ·

2025/01/28

In this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Lauren Hood welcomes artist and instructor Lauren Gaunt. Gaunt shares her artistic journey, from her early passion for art in Michigan to her education at Kalamazoo College. She discusses her inspirations, including untrained artists and the Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore. Gaunt introduces her upcoming beginner landscape painting class at the Bower Center for the Arts, emphasizing its accessibility for novices. She offers advice for beginners

25:44

Youth Art - Staunton River High School

Behind the Bower ·

2025/01/21

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood explores the transformative power of art in education with art teacher Emily and her students from Staunton River High School. Emily, with 31 years of teaching experience, shares her journey and the joy of fostering creativity in her classroom. Students Nate and Lexie discuss their artistic inspirations and personal growth through art. The conversation highlights how art serves as a therapeutic outlet and a means of self-expression.

27:41

Kairos Counseling

Behind the Bower ·

2025/01/14

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin introduces Jennifer Coffman, a new instructor at the Bower Center for the Arts and a counseling intern at Kairos Counseling. They delve into the significance of mindfulness and discuss Jennifer's upcoming class, "Stepping into Mindfulness." Jennifer shares her extensive background in clinical mental health counseling and music therapy, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in managing stress and enhancing well-being.

25:11

Murder Mystery

Behind the Bower ·

2025/01/07

In the first 2025 episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin from the Bower Center for the Arts discusses arts and community events. She introduces Sabrina East, owner of "Jump Into Mystery," who shares her journey from hobbyist to business owner. Sabrina details her company's murder mystery events, including the upcoming "Fatal Flashback: A Prom to Die For," and emphasizes the importance of personalized character roles and costumes.

31:11

2024 Recap Episode!

Behind the Bower ·

2024/12/17

In this episode of Behind The Bower, host Susan Martin sits down with Ryan Steffen, the new Communications and Guest Relations Coordinator, and Lauren Hood, the Program Coordinator. They chat about their experiences at the Bower Center over the past year and share what they're excited about for 2025. From standout events like Bourbon and Blues and Art of Pairing to community outreach efforts and new programs like mosaic studios and pottery classes, there’s plenty to look back on—and even more to

26:33

Katie Viemeister & Brenda Gay Simmons

Behind the Bower ·

2024/12/10

On this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Susan Martin chats with Brenda Gay Simmons and Katie about the Bower Center for the Arts' Emerging Artist Residency Program. Brenda opens up about getting back into art after raising her family and her unique approach to painting with coffee. Katie, who chairs the residency program, shares how it’s all about supporting artists from all walks of life. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

25:51

Share Greater Lynchburg

Behind the Bower ·

2024/12/03

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin chats with Megan Huffman, the director of Share Greater Lynchburg, about connecting the community with local nonprofits and supporting local artists. They dive into how Share Greater Lynchburg got started during the COVID-19 pandemic, its reach across the region, and how it helps nonprofits collaborate and share resources. They also talk about the importance of supporting local artists through spots like the Bower Center for the Arts.

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