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The official podcast from the Bower Center of the Arts.
Episodes & Posts
Episodes
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Transcribed
8 SEP 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, Ryan welcomes Lisa Stephen, the Bower Center’s new stained glass instructor. Lisa shares her journey from California to Virginia, her artistic background in photography and quilting, and how a high school project featuring a dinosaur design first sparked her passion for stained glass.
Lisa walks listeners through the stained glass process, from cutting and grinding to copper taping and soldering, while emphasizing safety, creativity, and the importance of letting go of perfectionism. She also highlights upcoming themed workshops, including spooky Halloween and festive holiday sessions, with classes limited to six students to provide personalized instruction.
Transcribed
18 AUG 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan, Executive Director of the Bower Center for the Arts, sits down with Susan, the podcast's original creator and current Director of Development and Marketing. Susan shares her journey from West Virginia to Bedford, Virginia, her career path through journalism, Girl Scouts, and various nonprofits, and her deep passion for community-centered arts work. They discuss the Bower Center's programs, volunteer opportunities, and 20th anniversary celebrations, reflecting on how the arts foster belonging and connection while looking ahead to the organization's exciting future.
Transcribed
29 JUL 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan interviews Susan, an award-winning fine artist and studio painter at the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford, Virginia. Susan shares her artistic journey, from childhood influences by her artist mother to pursuing graphic design at Radford University, followed by 20 years in medical transcription before returning to art. She discusses her vibrant, impressionistic painting style, love of oils and acrylics, and passion for pottery and mosaics. Susan also reflects on a recent workshop in Yorkshire and her new painting classes at the Bower Center.
Transcribed
30 JUN 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan speaks with Ann, Vice President of the Bower Center for the Arts Board of Directors. Ann shares her journey from growing up near Boston to settling in Bedford, Virginia, after a distinguished career as a U.S. Foreign Service management officer across multiple countries. A passionate artist specializing in mosaics and fiber arts, Ann discusses her deep community involvement, including running for Bedford Town Council. She highlights initiatives like beautifying North Bridge Street and launching a local scavenger hunt, emphasizing art's vital role in connecting and enriching small communities.
Transcribed
2 JUN 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan interviews Virginia-based singer-songwriter Akeylah Simone ahead of her free concert at the Bower Center for the Arts on June 13th. Akeylah shares her lifelong connection to music, rooted in a family of musicians, and describes her genre-fluid style blending rock, R&B, pop, and jazz. She discusses her intuitive songwriting process, drawing inspiration from authentic lived experiences. Akeylah also highlights her community-focused values, including her nonprofit work addressing food insecurity. The conversation underscores the vital role arts play in bringing people together, especially in small towns and rural communities.
Transcribed
19 MAY 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan welcomes Beverly, a local artist and new instructor at the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford, Virginia. Beverly shares her artistic journey spanning 45 years, from childhood inspiration by Michelangelo and Rodin through sculpture, clay, assemblage, and now fiber art. She discusses her passion for art as healing, working with homeless individuals, recovery programs, and reentry programs. Beverly also introduces her upcoming weaving classes at the Bower Center, emphasizing her intuitive, nature-inspired approach and the therapeutic benefits of the creative process.
Transcribed
21 APR 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan speaks with Jefferson Forest High School art teacher Jennifer Tomkins and student artists Mayah and Sam about the Bedford County Public School High School Art Show. Mayah shares how anime inspired her artistic journey, while Sam discusses expressing personal health challenges through realism and charcoal. Jennifer highlights art's role in developing empathy, problem-solving, and emotional expression. The conversation emphasizes art's importance in education and its power to connect people across generations and experiences.
Transcribed
7 APR 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with Anna, the Bower Center’s new Programs and Community Relations Manager. She talks about her background as a fine arts graduate, with a focus on painting, drawing, papermaking, and stained glass, as well as her experience teaching art to both children and adults. Anna also shares her passion for community engagement and what inspired her to work in the nonprofit arts space. Ryan spotlights upcoming events like spring cabarets, jazz performances, and a Charles Schulz exhibition connected to the National D-Day Memorial and invites listeners to get involved in Bedford’s growing arts scene.
Transcribed
24 MAR 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan interviews Chris, music director of the Big Band of the Blue Ridge. Chris shares his musical journey, the band’s evolution, and its connection to the Bower Center For The Arts. They discuss the band’s diverse repertoire, the importance of live music, and the value of community arts. The episode also highlights upcoming concerts and events at the Bower Center, emphasizing its vital role in enriching Bedford’s cultural life and fostering a vibrant, supportive arts community.
Transcribed
17 MAR 2026 · In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan honors the late Sarah, the Bower Center’s founding executive director. He welcomes Linda, an accomplished artist and judge for the 12th Annual Currie Bower Exhibition, to discuss her artistic journey, judging process, and impressions of the exhibit. They highlight the creativity and depth in both youth and adult entries, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and technical skill in art. The episode also spotlights upcoming events and classes at the Bower Center, inviting the community to engage with the vibrant local arts scene.
The official podcast from the Bower Center of the Arts.
Information
| Author | Media Squatch |
| Organization | Media Squatch |
| Categories | Arts , Visual Arts , Performing Arts |
| Website | - |
| info@mediasquatch.com |
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