Behind the Bower

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood sits down with Spencer Blankenship and Stuart Scales of New Standard Bluegrass. They talk about their personal journeys into music, the artists who shaped their sound, and how their band came to be emphasizing the role of tradition, creativity, and community in bluegrass. The conversation explores their dedication to keeping the genre alive for future generations and the meaningful connection they feel when playing for local audiences. The episode wraps up with information about an upcoming live performance at the Bower Center and a nod to the center’s vital support of the arts.

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, 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 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 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 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 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.