PODCAST

Behind the Bower

Media Squatch

The official podcast from the Bower Center of the Arts.

arts visual arts

All Episodes

22:04

Mackenzie Caun and Chandler Hood from Sentry...

Behind the Bower ·

2025/10/14

In this episode of Behind the Bower, Lauren Hood sits down with Mackenzie Caun and Chandler Hood from Sentry Equipment, the title sponsor of the “Art of Pairing: Martini and Moonshine” fundraiser. They talk about Sentry’s role as a local manufacturer, their dedication to community involvement, and the value of supporting the arts. The conversation delves into Sentry’s charitable efforts, company culture, and enthusiasm for the upcoming event. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted discussion on

21:44

James Lasley and Bryan Wolk from Sentry Equipment &...

Behind the Bower ·

2025/10/07

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren sits down with James and Bryan, directors at Sentry Equipment & Erectors, Inc. in Forest, Virginia. They discuss their career journeys, Sentry’s cutting-edge conveyor and packaging systems, and the company’s culture of adaptability and transparency. The conversation also explores Sentry’s strong community involvement, recent hiring achievements, and local partnerships highlighted by their sponsorship of the “Art of Pairing: Martinis and Moonshine”

32:57

Nicole Johnson, Director of Tourism for Bedford County

Behind the Bower ·

2025/09/30

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin talks with Nicole Johnson, Bedford County’s Director of Tourism, about the role arts and culture play in building community spirit and drawing visitors. They discuss the impact of events like the Festival of Trees, spotlight Bedford’s growing arts scene, and share details on what’s ahead, including new exhibits, youth programs, and the county’s 250th American Revolution celebration. The conversation highlights the strong ties between the arts,

27:59

Hedron McCormick and Lori Stetson

Behind the Bower ·

2025/09/22

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with Bedford native and writer Hedron McCormick, along with resident artist Lori Stetson of the Bower Center. The conversation touches on Hedron’s return to Bedford, her short story Look for Sharp Top, and the creation of a commissioned artwork inspired by her writing. Together, they explore themes of home, community, and the ways art and storytelling can shape connection. The episode also spotlights upcoming events at the Bower Center,

32:31

Zach McDonald with The Lenny Marcus Trio

Behind the Bower ·

2025/09/16

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood sits down with Zach McDonald, bassist for the Lenny Marcus Trio. Zach reflects on his musical journey, from early band days to becoming a jazz performer, highlighting the impact of his mentors, the shift from brass to bass, and the trio’s distinctive, conversational sound. He shares perspectives on jazz improvisation, the art of storytelling through music, and what audiences can expect at a live performance. The episode wraps up with details on

32:50

Emilie Temeles

Behind the Bower ·

2025/09/09

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with Emilie Temeles, a passionate teacher, volunteer, and board member at the Bower Center for the Arts. Emily shares her path from the classroom to arts advocacy, reflecting on the center’s evolution, its outreach efforts, and the creative programs that continue to grow. She emphasizes the welcoming spirit of the center, its positive influence on Bedford, and her commitment to fostering inclusive artistic opportunities. The episode highlights

25:25

Elaine Fleck

Behind the Bower ·

2025/09/02

In this episode of "Behind the Bower," host Ryan interviews artist Elaine Flack about her solo exhibition, "Fragmentary Forms," at the Bower Center for the Arts. Elaine discusses her creative process, blending fabric and paint, and how her travels and life experiences influence her vibrant, textured works. She reflects on the blurred lines between art and craft, her inspirations, and the importance of allowing viewers to find their own meanings in art.

21:37

Avni Patel

Behind the Bower ·

2025/08/19

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren sits down with jewelry artist Avni Patel to discuss her journey from India to the United States, her background in sculpture, and the ways her cultural heritage informs her intricate metalwork. Avni shares insights into her creative process with silver metal clay and offers a preview of her upcoming hands-on workshop at the Bower Center for the Arts, where participants will design their own leaf or flower pendants. The conversation emphasizes Avni’s

23:52

Olivia Fletcher

Behind the Bower ·

2025/08/12

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren sits down with Olivia Fletcher, a hobby ceramicist and instructor at the Bower Center. Olivia recounts her journey from discovering ceramics to becoming a teacher, touching on the craft’s sustainability, her home studio, and the joy of nurturing creativity in students of all ages. She emphasizes the inclusive, therapeutic qualities of ceramics—particularly for neurodivergent children—and offers a preview of her upcoming classes for kids and teens. The

40:21

Bobbi Rhea Daniels and Kayla Zinski

Behind the Bower ·

2025/07/29

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan dives into the Bower Center for the Arts’ vibrant summer camps alongside Programs Coordinator Lauren and instructors Bobbi and Kayla. Together, they unpack the camps’ imaginative themes, interactive art activities, and the meaningful ways these experiences help young participants connect and grow. The conversation features memorable highlights, reflections on the power of creative expression, and the role of art as a tool for communication. Listeners

31:54

4th Biennial National Juried Fiber Arts Exhibition

Behind the Bower ·

2025/07/22

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan Stefan sits down with four talented fiber artists featured in the Fourth Biennial National Juried Fiber Arts Exhibition at the Bower Center. Together, they explore their artistic journeys, reflect on the nuances between traditional and contemporary quilting, and share the deep emotional resonance behind their creations. The discussion also delves into their material choices, the realities of participating in juried shows, and the camaraderie within the

15:28

Lynchburg Salsa

Behind the Bower ·

2025/07/15

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood sits down with Jeanette from Lynchburg Salsa to explore the group's beginnings, its impact on the local community, and the inclusive nature of salsa dancing. Jeanette opens up about her own journey into dance, offers encouraging advice for newcomers, and discusses the vibrant social connections that form on the dance floor. They also shine a spotlight on the upcoming Bower After Hours Salsa Night at the Bower Center for the Arts—an event open to

25:13

Katie Viemeister and Andrea Wild

Behind the Bower ·

2025/07/08

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin spotlights the Bower Center’s Suzie Viemeister Emerging Artist Residency Program. Katie shares how her mother’s passion for the arts inspired the residency, funded through an auction of Suzie’s art collection. Andrea, the 2025 emerging artist, discusses her artistic journey, recent projects, and the value of community support at the Bower Center. The episode highlights the program’s impact on artists and celebrates the enduring influence of

32:51

Sarah P Bolduc

Behind the Bower ·

2025/07/01

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan Steffen sits down with artist and curator Sarah Bolduc, juror for the fourth biennial national juried fiber arts exhibition at the Bower Center for the Arts. Together, they explore Sarah’s journey as an artist, her curatorial philosophy, and her dedication to nurturing creativity in emerging artists. Their conversation delves into the significance of community, the evolving role of technology in art submissions, and the broader cultural impact of the

34:13

Susan Martin, Desmond Black, and John Boggess

Behind the Bower ·

2025/06/24

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan is joined by Susan, Des, and John for a conversation about the development of the new outdoor learning center and community gathering space at the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford. Together, they explore the inspiration behind the project, the planning journey, and the hands-on volunteer efforts that brought the vision to life. The discussion also honors the space’s dedication to Lucille and underscores the Center’s commitment to accessibility,

27:08

Ellen Lindner Quilting

Behind the Bower ·

2025/06/17

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood sits down with Ellen, also known as the Adventure Quilter. Ellen recounts her transformation from flight instructor to nationally acclaimed fiber artist, offering insights into her creative journey. She discusses her artistic process, passion for bold, vibrant colors, and her fearless approach to experimentation in art quilting. Emphasizing the value of taking risks and embracing mistakes as part of growth, Ellen also shares details about her

27:46

Virginia Hollow

Behind the Bower ·

2025/06/10

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin chats with Carrie and Sue of Virginia Hollow. The discussion explores their individual musical paths, how the band has grown over time, and why performing original music is so meaningful to them. They reflect on the deep emotional bonds created with audiences, share standout memories from the stage, and emphasize the value of community support for the arts. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt live performance that captures Virginia Hollow’s

30:26

Cassandra Baldwin - Bedford Library

Behind the Bower ·

2025/06/03

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan Steffen sits down with Cassandra Baldwin, Youth Services Coordinator at the Bedford Central Library. They explore the library’s wide array of programs, with a special focus on the summer reading initiative, and discuss the evolving role of libraries as vital community centers. Cassandra offers insights into youth reading habits, the importance of engaging activities, and the impact of outreach and partnerships. The episode highlights how libraries

27:17

Thomas Kilian and Kiera Rogerson

Behind the Bower ·

2025/05/27

In this episode of the podcast, the Bower Center for the Arts spotlights its upcoming events and educational offerings. Executive Director Susan Martin introduces teaching artists Thomas Kilian and Kiera Rogerson. Thomas reflects on his 22-year journey as a potter and previews his upcoming classes, including “Clay Works” and a workshop exploring the historical context of pottery. Kiera shares her artistic background and introduces her “Drawing from Scratch” course. The episode also delves into the

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

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