In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with Desiree, Lisa, and Madeleine from Little Town Players to discuss their upcoming production of The Diary of Anne Frank. The conversation delves into the casting process, the emotional depth of live theater, and the vital role of community involvement. The guests offer personal reflections on portraying real-life stories, the spirit of volunteerism, and how the arts cultivate empathy and connection within Bedford. This episode underscores the transformative power of theater and invites listeners to support and engage with local arts initiatives.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood sits down with Liberty High School art teacher Miss Friedewald and her students, Gwen and Ava. Together, they explore how art nurtures creativity, empathy, and community, sharing personal insights from their artistic journeys and the influence of art in their lives. The discussion highlights art’s vital role in education encouraging problem-solving, resilience, and self-expression. They also reflect on how public art brings people together and fosters community pride. The episode wraps up with an invitation to the Bedford County High School Art Show and upcoming youth art programs at the Bower Center.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with multidisciplinary artist Veronica Jackson juror and judge for the Bower Center’s 13th Annual National Juried Exhibition. Veronica discusses her artistic journey, her approach to curating exhibitions, and her vision for expanding the Bower Center’s makerspaces. The conversation delves into art as a powerful form of expression, the value of creative risk-taking, and the importance of making art accessible to everyone. Listeners are encouraged to visit the exhibition and attend upcoming events at the Bower Center in Bedford, Virginia.

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 martinis versus moonshine and encourages listeners to support the Bower Center for the Arts by attending the fundraiser.

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” fundraiser. This episode offers valuable insight into Sentry’s industry leadership, continued growth, and deep commitment to both its team and the Forest community.

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, tourism, and local businesses, showing Bedford as a creative and welcoming place for both residents and visitors.

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, underscoring the role of art in fostering both personal expression and a sense of belonging.

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 the trio’s upcoming concert at the Bower Center, along with a special ticket giveaway for listeners.

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 the Bower Center’s rich history, strong community ties, and the transformative role of the arts, while also offering a glimpse into upcoming events and initiatives.

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. 

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 passion for craftsmanship, teaching, and the transformative joy of turning raw materials into wearable art—inviting listeners to tap into their own creativity.

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 conversation highlights art’s ability to foster confidence, community, and connection, perfectly reflecting the podcast’s mission to share inspiring stories in arts and culture.

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 will also get a preview of upcoming events at the Bower Center, all reinforcing its mission to cultivate creativity, inclusivity, and community engagement through the arts—for children and the greater Bedford area.

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 fiber arts community. This episode showcases the expressive range of fiber arts and invites listeners to experience the exhibition and upcoming programs at the Bower Center for the Arts.

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 Suzie Viemeister’s legacy in nurturing creativity and fostering a vibrant arts community.

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 arts. Sarah also offers thoughtful perspectives on supporting fellow creatives and reflects on the transformative role art plays within the Bower Center’s dynamic community.

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, community involvement, and preserving local legacies through the arts.

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 upcoming solo exhibition and a floral improv workshop at the Bower Center for the Arts. She invites listeners to step into their own creativity and welcome the unexpected in their artistic endeavors.