The Art Box

We were delighted to discover Leigh Ratterman during a Poetry Open Mic session. Her prose lives playfully on the “I’m just learning to be a cowboy” side of the ledger—light, airy, self-aware, and full of charm. There’s an authenticity to her voice that draws you in right away. Leigh has a wonderful story to tell and is so easy to visit with that we’re already hoping she’ll return for a full-length episode. We have a feeling our listeners are going to love her as much as we did. You can follow Leigh on Instagram at @leigh_ratterman and @kinda_cowgirl_poetry.

We first met Larry four years ago at the Gathering, sharing the media room in the Elko Convention Hall. From that very first conversation, it was clear, Larry always has a story ready to tell. This year, I was lucky enough to capture three of them on the recorder. Don’t get too excited just yet, we’re releasing one for now, and saving the other two for our Harvest of Thought 2026 special coming this October. Larry Hillberg has been broadcasting since 2001, starting with years of early morning radio before stepping into his current role as part of the long-running, extraordinary Saturday roots music mix at KVMR. He treasures every minute he spends behind the mic. What he values most is KVMR’s identity as the “Voice of the Community,” amplifying the work of hundreds of nonprofit organizations and individuals across its listening area. Imagine a radio station powered by a small paid staff, sustained entirely through its own fundraising, memberships, and underwriters—supported in every conceivable way by hundreds of volunteers—where all on-air broadcasting is done by unpaid community members. It sounds impossible. And yet, for more than three decades, KVMR has been doing exactly that. Find out more about Larry here: https://www.kvmr.org/users/larry-hillberg/

In our little hometown of Mesquite, creativity is always brewing around Mesquite Plaza, especially in the space between Juniper Outpost and the STEAM Center. This is the story of how three friends came together to craft a song that captures the spirit of our town, fueled by laughter, wordplay, and the magic that happens when you bring a talented singer into the mix. Yes, we know Episode 417 is a bit out of order. Between wrapping up our Cowboy Poetry series and keeping our regular schedule rolling, things got a little… discombobulated. But hey — it’s our podcast, and we reserve the right to shuffle the deck now and then. So sit back and enjoy Dave Siriani, DJ Van Dyke, and Steve as we chuckle our way through the origins of this little ditty. Stick around until the end to hear our musical masterpiece come to life. We are really, really. really going to miss Dave and Charlotte and their Juniper Outpost.

Recorded live at the 41st National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, this episode of The Art Box features a thoughtful conversation with filmmaker Gary Milliken and his wife Gail about Gary’s evocative film Cowboy Meditations. The film centers on cowboy and poet Dick Gibford, capturing his words, spirit, and reflections on life, the land, and the enduring traditions of the West. Blending poetry, imagery, and the quiet rhythm of cowboy philosophy, the project offers a contemplative bridge between modern audiences and the timeless wisdom of western heritage. Gary shares the inspiration behind the film, the creative journey of bringing Dick’s story to the screen, and why voices like his continue to resonate so deeply today. Find out more at: https://cowboymeditations.com/

In this episode, we ride along with Montana storyteller and musician Ben Larson, whose work lives somewhere between western folk tradition and what he calls interstellar honkytonk. From tales of family, friends, and life on the road to reflections shaped by years spent working outdoors, Ben’s songs and writing capture the spirit of the modern rural West with honesty and heart. Broadcasting from his home base in Philipsburg, Ben has self-published four albums, three nonfiction books, and two poetry collections—and he’s currently on a musical quest to perform in all 56 counties of Montana, with 42 already behind him. You can find Ben at: http://oldmanben.com

In an absolute delight of an episode of The Art Box, we sit down with Susan Thiriot, director of the Southern Nevada Symphony Orchestra, as she prepares for the upcoming “A New World” concert on February 28. With over forty years of musical experience and one of the few female conductors in the nation, Thiriot shares her passion for inspiring confidence in young musicians now joining the orchestra in record numbers. Blending seasoned performers with student artists, the ensemble embodies her belief that music brings joy, hope, and unity across generations. For Thiriot, live music isn’t just performance, it’s a soundbath that reorders the chaos of life and awakens something deep within us. We are so excited for the opening performance, please join us at the Virgin Valley High School 820 Valley View Drive Mesquite, NV 89027 for a Saturday February 28th afternoon matinee at 3 PM. Tickets can be purchased online at: https://www.snsymphony.com/

In Episode 401 of The Art Box, we welcome Jessica Schley, writer, rider, realtor, rancher, and fierce advocate for the land. Raised on a multigenerational working cattle and horse ranch in California’s Happy Canyon, Jessica grew up steeped in old cowboy stories, ranching traditions, and a deep respect for rangelands. Her latest book, Roots & Resilience: California Ranchers in Their Own Words, brings together the voices of 17 ranchers across the Golden State, weaving stories, poems, and essays that honor both heritage and hard-earned wisdom. Jessica joins us fresh from the 41st National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, where she debuted new work and carried forward the tradition of ranch storytelling. As a recipient of the Della Johns Scholarship, named for the Nevada ranch woman who helped found the Gathering, Jessica embodies the strong, steady voice of women whose labor and leadership sustain both family ranches and rural culture. Beyond the page, Jessica serves on the Legacy Council for the California Rangeland Trust, advocating for collaboration between ranchers and conservationists. With a background in rangeland ecology and land conservation policy from UC Berkeley, she brings both heart and science to the conversation, championing what she calls “Carhartt Conservationism”: finding common ground to steward the land for future generations. This episode is about roots, resilience, collaboration, and the enduring belief that ranchers are conservationists, storytellers, and essential caretakers of the American West. Click here to learn more about Jessica: https://www.jessicateonaschley.com/

Episode 400 feels like a milestone worth celebrating, and we couldn’t think of a more fitting guest than Gwen Reid, pure solid gold. Hailing from Placerville, California, Gwen Reid is a cowboy poet whose life has been as full and layered as the stories she tells. A proud mother of nine children, Gwen brings decades of lived experience to the page, crafting poetry that reflects family, faith, grit, humor, and the enduring spirit of the West. In this special episode, Gwen shares the story of the 49'ers flocking to California to strike it rich. From ranch life to historical reflection, Gwen’s poems honor tradition while preserving the everyday moments that often matter most. Her voice is steady, warm, and grounded in a deep respect for heritage and community. Episode 400 is a celebration, of poetry, perseverance, motherhood, storytelling, and the kind of strength that quietly shines. Gwen Reid reminds us that sometimes the richest gold is found in the stories we live and the words we dare to write. Here’s to 400 episodes, and to the solid gold people who make The Art Box what it is. In exciting news, Gwen has graciously recorded a very special poem for us that will air on our nation's 250th birthday, July 4, 2026. Thank you Gwen you are an American treasure.

At the 41st National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, we sit down with Idaho cowboy poet Gary Sisk, a man whose words carry the quiet weight of memory and the warmth of family. In this heartfelt episode, Gary shares a tender poem about his grandmother, a steady presence in his young life, full of grace, humor, and understanding. With the rhythm of the range and the softness of recollection, Gary tells the story of a time when he probably deserved a little trouble… but instead received mercy. It’s a poem about being “let off the hook,” about unconditional love, and about the kind of wisdom that doesn’t come from lectures, but from lived example. Episode 399 is a beautiful reminder of the grandmothers who shaped us, the small moments that linger, and the power of poetry to carry love forward across generations. Settle in, this one will touch your heart.

From memories of Arizona to the wide-open ranges of Utah and Nevada, Kathy Smith carries the West in her bones and in her poetry. Kathy sits down to share how a fifth-generation ranching upbringing shaped her voice, her grit, and her storytelling. Raised in a world where hard work, heartbreak, humor, and heritage are woven together like rawhide, Kathy draws from lived experience, her own and those of the people she loves, to create poems that feel both personal and universal. She talks about growing up in a ranching family, the lessons learned under big desert skies, and the quiet strength of women who worked just as hard as any cowboy. With warmth and honesty, Kathy reflects on how she more recently embraced the title of “poet,” not out of ambition, but out of a calling to preserve stories that matter. Her poems hold both sorrow and joy, the ache of loss, the laughter of family gatherings, the dust of corrals, and the resilience of rural life. At the Gathering, her words land softly and strong, reminding listeners why cowboy poetry remains such a powerful cultural thread in the American West. Episode 398 is a heartfelt conversation about heritage, identity, and the courage to step forward and claim your voice, even if you didn’t always call yourself a poet. Saddle up and settle in, this one carries the heart of the range. You can catch Kathy and her friends performing at the Mesquite Western-Roundup. Show times are Friday February 20th at 7 PM, Saturday February 21st at 1 PM and 7 PM. You can purchase tickets at the Mesquite Community Theatre Box Office located at 150 North Yucca Street or on-line at http://mctnv.com. Admission is $20. Event sponsors are Desert Gold Reality and the Eureka Casino.

During the Cowboy Poetry Gathering open mic session, Dick Warwick took the stage and recited his powerful piece, “I Fly with the Raven.” It was one of those moments when the room grew still and the words did the flying.

In this episode of The Art Box, we welcome Bridget Hayes, Digital Literacy Specialist with the Sonoma County Library. We first experienced Bridget during the second open mic session and were captivated by the depth and honesty in her poetry. As an educator passionate about the intersection of people and technology, Bridget shares why libraries are becoming essential spaces for digital awareness and empowerment. She also gives us insight into the innovative programs they’re developing to support learners of all ages in understanding our increasingly algorithm-driven world. As a special bonus, Bridget recites her poem “Gator Girl,” reminding us that poetry doesn’t have to rhyme to resonate — it simply has to be authentic. You can follow Bridget on Instagram: @beoutside2writes

In this episode of The Art Box, we sit down with a 5th-generation Utah rancher, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and cowboy poet. He writes the stories of those who came before him and the working ranch families of today, determined to keep their lives, struggles, humor, and grit alive through verse. Inspired in 1983 after hearing cowboy poet Scott McKendrick recite at his high school, he discovered that poetry wasn’t just something from the past, it was still riding the range. His poems are born after long days in the saddle, cold nights helping heifers calve, or quiet mountain sunrises. Some come easy. Others take the same hard work as ranching itself. Rooted in the West Desert and Great Basin, his writing carries deep gratitude, fierce advocacy for agriculture, and a willingness to tackle hard subjects, loss, family struggles, and the realities facing American ranchers. “If I do my job right,” he says, “you won’t hear my poems, you’ll feel ’em.” We talk about stepping outside comfort zones, keeping faith at the center, collaborating with musicians like Brenn Hill and others, and why poetry isn’t a contest, it’s connection. It’s therapy. It’s life. This conversation is about heritage, humility, and honoring the sacred in everyday moments. And yes — you’ll feel it. For Ben's book of poetry drop him an email at: [email protected]

Our second episode from the 41st National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada features a conversation with Ben Parks of American Cowboy Radio — a familiar voice worldwide to many who follow Western culture, music, and storytelling. Broadcasting from the heart of the Gathering, we talk with Ben about the enduring importance of radio in preserving and promoting cowboy poetry, Western music, and rural traditions. In a fast-moving digital world, American Cowboy Radio continues to serve as a steady signal across the range, amplifying artists, honoring heritage, and connecting communities. Ben shares his perspective on the evolution of Western media, the responsibility of curating authentic voices, and what it means to gather once a year in Elko where poets, musicians, and storytellers come together to celebrate a living tradition. From the airwaves to the stage, this episode explores how stories travel, and why they still matter. Saddle up as our 41st Gathering series continues. https://americancowboyradio.com/

Thanks to a generous grant by the Nevada Arts Council and support from The Western Folklife Center, we’re back in Elko, Nevada for the 41st National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, our fourth year attending this remarkable celebration of Western poetry, music, and storytelling. In this opening episode of our special Gathering series, we set the stage from the heart of downtown Elko, sharing reflections on what it means to return once again to the Western Folklife Center, and what feels different this year. From Open Mic poets finding their voices to the community spirit that fills every venue, the Gathering is already alive with energy. Our first guest is one of the most talked-about young musicians at this year’s event, singer/songwriter Jimmy Cantwell from Colorado, attending his very first Gathering. There’s a genuine buzz surrounding Jimmy’s performances, and it’s easy to hear why. With thoughtful lyrics, strong musicianship, and a presence well beyond his years, he represents the next generation of Western music. Jimmy joins us to talk about making the journey to Elko, stepping into a legendary tradition, and what it feels like to be part of a community that honors both heritage and fresh voices. Saddle up, our 41st Gathering series begins here.

In this episode of The Art Box, we sit down with Southern Utah fiber artist Paulette Schermerhorn, whose vibrant fabric collages stitch together travel, photography, and a lifetime of curiosity. After more than 30 years as a registered nurse, Paulette answered the quiet call of creativity and began exploring fabric as fine art. What started as traditional quilting evolved into richly layered textile works that blend printed photography, hand-dyed fabrics, thread painting, and beadwork. Her pieces celebrate the diversity of people, animals, and landscapes she encounters across the globe, from beloved Bernese Mountain Dogs to the cultural textures of distant countries. Paulette shares how mentorship, risk-taking, and a willingness to “let the fabric tell her where it wants to go” have shaped her artistic voice. We talk about art as conversation, about being misunderstood in a nontraditional medium, and about finding joy in movement, nature, and human connection. This is a story about courage, late-blooming creativity, and seeing the world, then stitching it into something others can experience too.

In Episode 391 of The Art Box, Steve and co-host Terri Fitzsimmons sit down with Shannon Garza in the Mesquite Works STEAM Center recording studio for a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation about creativity, release, and the quiet rituals that shape who we become. Shannon’s life and work sit at the intersection of curiosity and expression. Drawn to imagination and problem-solving from an early age, she learned that ideas could be shaped into something real, stretched, tested, and transformed into meaning. Encouraged by mentors to treat creativity as a practice rather than a talent, she has built a life centered on connection: between people, between ideas, and between the inner world and the outer one. At the heart of this episode is Shannon’s vision for a Traveling Ribbon Tree, an evolving community art project inspired by her childhood in the desert. As a young girl, she would ride her horse to a lone, wind-worn sagebrush and tie ribbons to its branches, each ribbon holding a word or feeling she was ready to release. That simple act became her first lesson in letting go. Now, she hopes to bring that ritual to communities everywhere. The Traveling Ribbon Tree invites people to write a word on a ribbon, a hurt, a fear, a burden, and tie it to a shared tree. As it moves from town to town, it becomes a living archive of human courage and honesty. A canopy of quiet release. A reminder that none of us carry our stories alone. Throughout the conversation, Shannon shares her creative process — beginning with listening, moving through reflection and experimentation, balancing intuition with discipline. She speaks candidly about uncertainty, resilience, collaboration, and the evolving role of technology in creative life. Her recurring themes of connection and meaning reveal a worldview grounded in compassion, curiosity, and growth. Shannon reflects on the importance of presence and inner freedom. She reminds us that growth is not linear, it loops and spirals, and that sometimes the smallest gesture can hold the greatest power. The Giving Tree is a conversation about release, community, and creative courage. It’s about trusting the process, honoring ritual, and recognizing that healing, like art, is meant to be shared. And in the end, it leaves us with a simple but profound truth: sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is name what we’re ready to let go, and tie it to the wind.

In this inspiring episode of The Art Box, MJ welcomes Emmy Award–winning Costume Designer, Stylist, Fine Artist, and Creative Visionary Monique Marie Long for a powerful conversation about creativity, transformation, and telling the truth through art. Monique’s extraordinary career spans fashion, film, television, and theme-park design, including work on iconic projects such as Casino, Golden Girls, This Is Us, What Happens in Vegas, major awards shows, and her Emmy-winning work on NewsRadio. From collaborating with legendary designers to shaping visual stories for Hollywood and Disney, her life has been steeped in storytelling through fabric, color, and form. Now, Monique has entered a bold new chapter as a fine artist, developing her signature Intelligent Mixed Media Process (IMMP)—a deeply intuitive and symbolic approach that blends layered materials, narrative intention, and emotional honesty. Her vibrant, declarative works explore themes of self-worth, identity, resilience, healing, and spiritual renewal, inviting viewers to see themselves reflected in each piece. Her powerful “I AM…” series has become a touchstone for audiences, offering affirmation, strength, and connection. Whether displayed in galleries, hospitals, outdoor installations, or fine art centers, her work resonates as both art and invitation: to claim one’s story and stand in personal truth. MJ and Monique discuss her journey from Hollywood to fine art, the courage it takes to follow lifelong dreams, the healing power of creativity, and how art can become a mirror for transformation. This episode is a celebration of bold color, layered meaning, and the brave act of becoming fully yourself. You can find Monique on Instagram: @monique_marie_long IMDB Facebook: Monique Marie Long

In Episode 389 of The Art Box, we welcome author Bob Ingram for a conversation that blends baseball, imagination, and a lifetime of lived experience. Bob shares how his journey through sports, business, and growing up in Berwyn, Maryland became the foundation for his fiction, where real friendships, adventures, and moments from his life are transformed into powerful stories. We explore his two novels, The Genius Who Saved Baseball and The Amelia Earhart of Baseball, both works of fiction inspired by Bob’s deep love for the game and the people who shaped him along the way. His storytelling weaves together personal history, creative imagination, and a profound respect for baseball’s cultural impact. This episode celebrates how memory becomes narrative, how friendships become characters, and how a life well-lived can become the richest source of fiction. Purchase Bob's books at: https://thegeniuswhosavedbaseball.com/ Note: Bob’s storytelling also inspired a Calder Blackwell Alternate Realms episode built around a real-life moment in baseball history, when a 17-year-old girl, Jackie Mitchell famously struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig back-to-back. Calder takes that astonishing event and asks a simple, powerful question: What if the gate had stayed open? The result is a short, thought-provoking “what-if” episode that reimagines history and leaves you lingering in possibility long after it ends. You can find Calder Blackwell’s Alternate Realms on Spotify.

In this deeply moving episode of The Art Box, Steve welcomes writer and visual artist Rebecca Eckland for a conversation that flows between memory, language, healing, and the enduring power of creative inheritance. Rebecca shares how her artistic life began with words, how her MFA helped her claim her voice, and how place, lived experience, and storytelling continue to shape everything she creates. She also reflects on the quiet influence of her grandmother’s art studio, where the smell of oils and the reverence for making something beautiful first took root. The conversation unfolds into Rebecca’s return to visual art through collage and mixed media during a time of physical pain and recovery. What began as a way to cope became a joyful, experimental practice using watercolor, ink, wood, paper, thread, stone, and even a Dremel tool. Her current lichen-inspired series becomes a powerful metaphor for identity, relationship, and interdependence—how, like lichen itself, we are formed through connection and cannot exist in isolation. Rebecca reflects on the mystery and magic of the creative process, the discipline of showing up, the athlete’s patience she brings to art-making, and the freedom that comes from separating creativity from commerce. She speaks openly about vulnerability, perseverance, and allowing play back into the studio. Her thoughts on community, collaboration, and creative kinship remind us that art is never solitary. It is built through love, encouragement, and shared courage. This episode is a gentle reminder that art is how we make sense of being alive—and how we give that understanding back to the world. Learn more about Rebecca at: https://www.rebeccaaeckland.com/

In this tender and inspiring episode of The Art Box, Steve sits down with Las Vegas photographer, wife, and mom Teresa Wasiak for a conversation that beautifully reframes what it means to be an artist. Teresa may jokingly call herself a “newbie,” but her journey tells a richer story—one of curiosity, courage, and lifelong becoming. From her early days of rock climbing in Joshua Tree, Idyllwild, and Tuolumne Meadows—camera clipped carefully to her harness—to discovering her love for hummingbirds, black and white photography, vibrant color, and even capturing her first Milky Way, Teresa’s path is shaped by nature, exploration, and wonder. She shares how photography became her way of seeing the world more deeply, especially when the most powerful images weren’t always found at the summit, but “down below,” in the textures, shadows, and quiet beauty of the desert. Teresa reflects on her deep admiration for Ansel Adams, her growth through UNLV photography classes, her brave 365-day photo challenge, and her continued evolution through experimentation with color, muted tones, astro photography, and now flash and Lightroom. She speaks openly about imposter syndrome, time constraints of being a working mom, and the delicate balance between family, career, and creative passion. As a proud member of Women In Focus Las Vegas, Teresa celebrates the power of artistic community—of learning together, showing work publicly in libraries and galleries, and finding confidence through shared inspiration. She also talks about creating her 2025 calendar Past the Boulevard, a project that taught her as much about business and vulnerability as it did about art. This episode is a gentle reminder that creativity isn’t about arrival—it’s about openness. It’s about taking chances, trying things that feel uncomfortable, showing up anyway, and allowing yourself to grow. Teresa’s story is for anyone who has ever said, “I’m just starting,” no matter how far they’ve already come. A heartfelt conversation about photography, motherhood, community, and the quiet bravery it takes to keep learning.

In this episode of The Art Box, we welcome Mesquite author Ann Steele, whose life story is as layered and inspiring as the novels she writes. From her early years in Springville, Utah, through nearly two decades with Utah Legal Services, to raising a family and later living abroad in Germany for sixteen years, Ann’s journey is rooted in dedication, curiosity, and quiet determination. Writing has been a constant thread throughout her life, beginning with poetry and short stories and growing into a body of novels shaped by experience, observation, and a deep understanding of human resilience. Ann shares her path into self-publishing, her experience releasing multiple novels across major digital platforms, and the special family connection of having her son serve as editor for all her books. With her newest novel, Relentless, nearing publication, and more stories already taking shape, Ann embodies what it means to create without stopping. This episode is a celebration of lifelong creativity, strong storytelling voices, and the courage it takes to keep putting your work into the world, one page at a time. The following ebooks are available for download at the Clark County Library: -- The Photograph -- Staring Down the Devil -- An Uncommon Alliance -- The Stowaway Here is a list of places where people can download a copy of Ann's ebooks (the cost is only $2.99): -- Barnes and Noble -- Apple Books -- Smashwords -- Tolino -- Cloud Library -- Odilo -- Borrow Box -- Gardners -- Rakuten Kobo -- Everand -- OverDrive -- Vivlio -- Fable

In this meaningful episode of The Art Box, we sit down with extraordinary photographer Sue Beauchamp, who, along with her husband Mark, made the journey from Las Vegas to Mesquite to share her creative story. Sue’s work is rooted in curiosity, patience, and a deep reverence for light, texture, and moment. Her photography reminds us that beauty isn’t always loud or dramatic; often it lives quietly in subtle shadows, gentle colors, and the spaces where time seems to slow. Our conversation explores how she developed her eye, what draws her to her subjects, and how photography has become both a form of expression and a way of truly seeing the world. We also talk about the modern tools that help shape today’s photographic storytelling, including digital darkrooms like Adobe Lightroom, and how Sue balances technology with authenticity. From artistic process to creative discipline, this episode is a reflection on presence, observation, and honoring the stories unfolding right in front of us. It’s a warm, inspiring dialogue for anyone who loves art, visual storytelling, and the magic that happens when passion meets patience. Learn more about Sue at: http://suebeauchamp.com

In this episode of The Art Box, we’re joined by Michelle Patrick of the Nevada Arts Council for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation about a life shaped by creativity. Michelle reflects on growing up with supportive parents who encouraged her artistic path, from listening to her father’s music in the car, to early dance studies and formative years at the famed LaGuardia High School, where young artists are nurtured and challenged to grow. We explore Michelle’s journey as a participant in the Sundance Institute Directors Lab, her continued expansion as a creative through photography, and her long-standing work building and sustaining creative communities across Nevada. Throughout the conversation, she shares thoughtful insights into why public investment in the arts matters now more than ever. This episode examines what it truly means to “hold space” for creativity in both urban and rural communities, and how artists, administrators, and advocates can work together to ensure the arts not only survive, but thrive. Michele mentioned Oliva Dean and we used one of her songs in the background in this episode. You can find out more about Oliva here --> https://soundcloud.com/oliviaadean

In this episode of The Art Box, co-host MJ sits down with Justin Gable, founder of Lasermade, a creative studio where technology and craftsmanship come together in striking ways. Justin shares how he uses advanced laser technology to etch custom images, designs, and text onto metal—transforming everyday objects into deeply personal works of art. From concept to execution, the conversation explores how precision tools can still leave room for creativity, storytelling, and human touch. The discussion also looks ahead, as Justin talks about expanding his process to include laser-etched glass, opening up new possibilities for artists, designers, and clients seeking unique, lasting expressions. This episode is a thoughtful look at how modern tools are reshaping creative practice—proving that innovation doesn’t replace artistry, it amplifies it.

In this heartfelt and vibrant episode, The Art Box welcomes Juan Muniz, a celebrated toy designer, muralist, and fine artist whose work blends pop art, pop surrealism, animation, and lowbrow into a style unmistakably his own. Born in Mexico and raised in Southern California, Juan has spent more than 15 years building an art career that has taken him from Las Vegas and Los Angeles to New York, San Francisco, Japan, and Taipei. At the center of his creative universe is Felipe the Bunny, an anthropomorphic character inspired by the memory of Juan’s brother. Through Felipe and a cast of expressive companions, Juan explores universal emotions, love, joy, anxiety, heartbreak, compassion, and the quiet struggles of being human. Juan is also deeply committed to art therapy, believing in the healing power of creativity and the ability of visual storytelling to help people process difficult emotions. This dedication informs both his imagery and the gentle emotional honesty found in his work. With child-like charm, bright palettes, and disarming sincerity, Juan’s paintings invite viewers to connect with their most open-hearted selves. His career extends far beyond galleries; Juan’s characters and visual voice have shaped street art, apparel, toys, and collaborations with global brands including the NBA, UFC, Hard Rock, Cosmopolitan Hotel, Zappos, Don Julio, Pepsi, Sugar Factory, and more. Most recently, he created the fan-favorite “Golden Misfits” characters for the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights. Juan’s leap into designer toys produced instant successes such as UHOH, which sold out immediately, and Smile, which won Artist of the Year at the 2017 Designer Toy Awards. Today, his newest originals and character creations continue to find homes in select galleries and with collectors around the world. Join us for a candid, inspiring conversation about imagination, emotional truth, creative evolution, and the powerful simplicity at the heart of Juan’s philosophy: “Say it simple, mean it deep.” Find Juan on-line at: https://www.ninobuniworld.com/ https://www.facebook.com/juanmunizart/

In this wide-ranging and inspiring conversation, engineer Aaron Weast joins The Art Box to share how true innovation happens when all parts of S T E A M—Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math—work together as one. With a pile of patents to his name, Aaron believes the lines between disciplines should blur, because every great idea needs a spark of art, a dash of curiosity, and the courage to ask big questions. Together, we explore why art drives vision, how to develop your “spidey sense” for creative insight, and why no question is ever a dumb one. We also talk about building pumpkin cannons, nurturing curiosity, and keeping that childlike sense of wonder alive in a world that too often forgets to ask why. Tune in for a blend of invention, imagination, and insight, a true celebration of STEAM thinking in motion.

In this colorful Art Box episode, MJ sits down with Shawna and Burke Pinto, owners of Baha Imports in Mesquite, Nevada, a vibrant shop where imagination meets artistry and every corner tells a story. Stocked with creations by regional artists and hand-picked finds from across the world, Baha Imports reflects the Pintos’ shared passion for beauty, community, and heart-centered design. Their shop invites visitors to explore an eclectic selection of indoor and outdoor décor to enhance any home or garden, from Southwest to Desert, Mountains to Lakes, Tropical to Ocean… even Dinosaurs to Aliens! It’s a joyful celebration of discovery and creativity, proving that at Baha Imports, there truly is something for everyone and it all comes from the heart. Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093408031821 Web site: https://bajaimportsmesquite.com/

For this episode, MJ traveled to Scenic, Arizona to visit Amber and Edj, co-founders of Donkey Dreams Sanctuary, a place where compassion, connection, and the quiet wisdom of donkeys come together. Donkey Dreams Sanctuary is the manifestation of Amber and Edj’s desire to create environments where donkeys can truly thrive while helping humans deepen their own well-being. After years of guiding people toward emotional and physical wellness, they expanded their circle of care to include donkeys when they learned of the plight of America’s wild burros. Their dream took root with the birth of two special foals, Pink and Eli, whose arrival inspired the creation of a forever home where rescued and wild-born donkeys can live freely, roaming, playing, and connecting with humans on their own terms. In this heart-opening conversation, MJ learns how Amber and Edj turned empathy into action, giving displaced and wild burros the life they deserve, and inviting all of us to rediscover gentleness in a world that moves too fast. Please consider donating to keep this dream alive: https://donkeydreams.org/donate/

In this reflective and delightfully candid conversation, poet Mike Cullinane joins The Art Box to talk about life after deadlines, the beauty of observation, and rediscovering creativity in the second act. A former journalist turned poet, Cullinane traces his journey from writing postcards and corporate presentations to authoring the poetry chapbook Rescue Dog Hejira and contributing to publications like The Galway Review, Failed Haiku, and Sad Girl Diaries. He shares how discipline, humor, and time have reshaped his relationship with words and how a grandchild’s laughter has become his newest muse. Together we explore Mike’s intuitive writing process, his affection for Impressionism, modern art, film noir, and the blues, and why he calls the villanelle “the Twizzler Candy of poetry.” From early-morning inspirations to the patience of letting a poem “die on the vine,” Mike reveals the gentle wisdom of someone content to write for the love of it. This episode is a celebration of quiet artistry, of learning, late in life, that being an artist isn’t about ambition or acclaim, but about paying attention.

In this inspiring episode of The Art Box, we welcome Francisco Silva, whose passion for astronomy and education left a lasting impression on Steve and his son JT at a recent dark sky program at Avi Kwa Ame National Monument. Francisco serves as Vice President of the Las Vegas Astronomical Society’s Educational Outreach Program, where he helps connect people of all ages to the beauty and science of the night sky. Their conversation ranges from the value of STEAM education to the “clocks of nature” that shape our world, and how the right approach can ignite an inner fire for learning and discovery. Francisco also talks of his dark sky musical playlist, a poetic nod to the harmony between art, science, and the desert’s nighttime silence. A reminder that curiosity isn’t just something we teach, it’s something we keep alive, one question and one constellation at a time. Tune in and rediscover the wonder of looking up. Enjoy this episode and then follow up next week as Francisco is a guest on our friend Howard Fox's "Outdoor Adventures Series podcast. Sure to be a compelling talk.

Sometimes the desert has its own plans. In this short but heartfelt episode, recorded live at the Stewards of the Earth Festival at Cactus Joe’s in Blue Diamond, the skies opened, and the Mojave offered its blessing in the form of steady, cleansing rain. Join us as we pause to honor that gift and reflect on the power of water in this dry land. With thanks to Kym and Carmen for organizing, Cactus Joe for hosting beneath the cholla and Joshua trees, and Alan O’Neil for guiding a thoughtful discussion on the science and spirit of desert stewardship. Though the conversation was brief, the message endures: even a storm can remind us why we care for this fragile, magnificent landscape.

Join in my ultimately fun conversation with the endlessly creative Sandy Beeler, radio host, theatre producer, muralist, and passionate arts advocate whose energy fuels Northern Nevada’s cultural scene. By day, Sandy hosts four radio shows across Nevada and New Mexico. By night, she helps keep the arts alive as Vice President of Ghost Light Productions, Secretary of the Elko Art Foundation, and the artist behind Buzzy Bee Art, where her motto is “Helping Your Imagination Come to Life.” From her award-winning radio theatre productions, including a student-led remake of War of the Worlds, to vibrant murals that transform blank walls into stories, Sandy embodies what it means to live a life powered by art. She shares her journey from drawing with her musician father to earning two Mayor’s Art Awards, and how perseverance, patience, and heart have guided her every step. Tune in as Sandy talks about performance, painting, and the power of saying yes to inspiration, whether it arrives in the theatre, on the airwaves, or in a can of paint. Listen now to “A Dancing Soul” — a conversation that proves creativity never stops moving. Links: https://www.facebook.com/buzybeeart https://mix967fm.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ghostlightnevada/ https://elkoartfoundation.org/

In this episode of The Art Box, we sit down with Summer Wilson, Mesquite author, playwright, and founder of the Virgin Valley Writers Group, to explore the power of storytelling and the courage it takes to give voice to quiet truths. Summer shares her creative journey across Screen writing, poetry and short stories, and how her passion for community has shaped a welcoming home for local writers to grow, share, and belong. We also discuss her latest collection, Forbidden Whispers, a beautifully woven book of poetry, short stories, and lyrical reflections that invites readers to listen closely, to secrets, to longing, to the quiet strength of the human spirit. Her work is available on Amazon and through other fine booksellers. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just beginning to explore your creative voice, Summer’s insights into craft, confidence, vulnerability, and building artistic community in the desert will leave you inspired to put pen to paper and whisper your own truths into the world. Instagram: @summerlwilsom Facebook: Summer L. Wilson

Join us as The Art Box takes to East Fremont for a whirlwind of music, creativity, and community energy. In this lively episode, we catch the pulse of downtown as fiddles sing, artists share their spark, and passersby jump into the magic of spontaneous art-making. From toe-tapping tunes to heartfelt conversations, we celebrate the joy that happens when art spills into the streets, and everyone becomes part of the show.

For this special Harvest of Thought installment, we invited writers from across the country to share original flash fiction, tiny worlds built with precision, emotion, and imagination. The challenge? Each story had to come in at 500 words or fewer. Flash fiction is a unique art form, a place where pacing tightens, language sharpens, and every sentence must carry its full weight. These stories don't wander; they ignite, twist, shimmer, or break your heart in the span of a breath. In this episode, you’ll hear brief yet powerful tales that explore the unexpected corners of the human experience moments of mystery, humor, longing, memory, and surprise. Some stories whisper. Some snap. A few might leave you thinking long after the final word. Settle in and enjoy these compact literary sparks, proof that a story doesn’t have to be long to stay with you.

Our nationwide call for short-form personal essays brought voices from many walks of life, each answering the invitation to share a story or insight that could be recited in under six minutes. In this second installment of our Harvest of Thought: Essays series, we continue to explore the richness of human thought and lived experience. These writers look back with humility, forward with imagination, and inward with courage. Some stories touch memory. Some challenge us gently. Some shine light on ordinary moments that turn out to be not ordinary at all. Thank you for listening, reflecting, and welcoming these voices into your day. May these brief essays resonate long after their final lines fade, small offerings with lasting echoes.

Three months ago, we invited insightful voices from across the nation to share original essays for a special Harvest of Thought edition — short reflections filled with heart, perspective, memory, and meaning. The only request: each essay had to be able to be spoken aloud in six minutes or less — a challenge that pushed writers toward clarity, honesty, and lyrical brevity. In Part I, we present the first gathering of those thoughtful works. These essays explore personal turning points, unexpected lessons, and moments when life whispered rather than shouted. Some pieces spark reflection. Others bring gentle humor or quiet awe. All arrive with an open hand, offering wisdom in a small, crafted space. Settle in and enjoy these compact journeys of experience and insight — proof that sometimes the deepest truths arrive in under six minutes.

Three months ago, we set an invitation loose across the country: Send us your words. Send us your heart. Let us hear what you carry inside. The response was extraordinary. Artists from coast to coast shared poems filled with vulnerability, wisdom, humor, and grace. In Part II of our Harvest of Thought poetry edition, we continue celebrating those voices. Some poems arrive soft as dawn. Others shout with joy or ache with truth. Together, they create a tapestry of lived experience, proof that creativity travels, gathers, and grows when community calls it forth. Thank you for listening, for supporting the voices that stepped forward, and for making space for language that stretches the heart. We hope these closing poems linger long after the episode ends.

Three months ago, we reached out across the nation, inviting talented friends, poets, writers, and creative souls to lend their voices to a special project. What followed was a generous outpouring of words, emotion, and imagination. Today, in Part I of our Harvest of Thought poetry edition, we share some of those remarkable submissions. These poems explore love, grief, wonder, identity, humor, memory, and the quiet places our hearts go when we sit still long enough to listen. Please note, this episode includes a few adult words — not for shock, but because some truths arrive raw and unfiltered. Each piece arrives like a seed, carried from a distant field, planted in shared soil, and blooming through voice and rhythm. Join us as we begin this lyrical journey. May the words offered here nourish curiosity, stir emotion, and remind us that we are connected through story and sound.

In this episode of The Art Box, host MJ Stiles sits down with friend, mystery and thriller author Lana M. Fox, whose gripping stories unfold in the dramatic landscape of Hood River, Oregon. Lana is the author of The Truth Will Set You Free, a Colorado Gold Fiction finalist, and the creator of the Hood River Mystery Series featuring Detective Liz Ellisen, with titles My Sister’s Keeper, Through Frozen Eyes, and Her Last Breath. Her work has appeared in Woman’s World Magazine, Murderous Intent Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and more. Lana reflects on inspiration, travel, and the deep satisfaction of crafting stories that keep readers turning the page long into the night. Whether you're a mystery fan, aspiring writer, or lover of atmospheric small-town thrillers, this episode dives into the art and craft behind keeping readers guessing. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and step inside the suspenseful world of Lana M . Fox. Find out more about Lana and purchase her books at: https://lanamfox.com/

If you listen to one podcast all year, this is the one. In this powerful episode of The Art Box, host MJ speaks with Dr. Lena Cavusoglu, professor at Pacific University, about her remarkable art-based research project, Faces Seen, Voices Heard. Blending academic inquiry with visual storytelling, Dr. Cavusoglu’s work explores how society responds to people with visible facial differences—those living with birthmarks, scars, burns, or other variations that often provoke bias and misunderstanding. Through empathy and scholarship, she challenges deeply rooted perceptions of beauty and normalcy that shape how individuals are treated in classrooms, workplaces, and communities. Dr. Cavusoglu discusses the creation of her four-piece art series, which pairs delicate hand-drawn portraits with the handwritten reflections of real participants. These works invite viewers to literally lift layers of transparent text to reveal each face beneath—transforming the act of seeing into one of understanding. The conversation encourages listeners to examine their own assumptions, discover the humanity beyond appearance, and embrace a more inclusive vision of beauty where every face, and every story, matters.

In this special three-part series of The Art Box, host MJ takes us home to Oregon for an intimate look at the stories, friendships, and creative spark that drive Petty Fever, the award-winning Tom Petty tribute band beloved across the Northwest and beyond. Through personal connections with the band and their families, MJ explores the music that shaped their lives, the heart behind their performances, and the shared passion that keeps classic rock alive for a new generation. Life Behind the Music goes deeper than the stage—into the people, places, and moments that make the music matter. In the final episode of Life Behind the Music, host MJ sits down with Oregon native Todd McPherson, whose path has woven together the worlds of rock and business with equal passion. A co-owner of Whitlock’s Sewing Center in Salem, Todd has built a nationally recognized brand known for innovation and education in the sewing and quilting community. But long before becoming a successful entrepreneur, he was a working musician, touring the country with the legendary Kingsmen, the “Godfathers of Garage Rock,” and sharing stages with icons like Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, and The Beach Boys. Joining the conversation is Christian Ostbo, musician, chef, and wellness entrepreneur, adding fresh insight into the enduring bond between art, performance, and creative balance. Together, Todd and Christian reflect on the discipline, joy, and sheer energy that come from a lifetime devoted to craft—whether tuning a bass, a business, or the rhythm of a well-lived life. Petty Fever: http://www.pettyfever.com Learn more about Whitlock’s Sewing Center: https://whitlocks.com/

In this special three-part series of The Art Box, host MJ takes us home to Oregon for an intimate look at the stories, friendships, and creative spark that drive Petty Fever, the award-winning Tom Petty tribute band beloved across the Northwest and beyond. Through personal connections with the band and their families, MJ explores the music that shaped their lives, the heart behind their performances, and the shared passion that keeps classic rock alive for a new generation. Life Behind the Music goes deeper than the stage—into the people, places, and moments that make the music matter. In this second installment of Life Behind The Music, host MJ sits down with Frank Murray, the heart and driving force behind Petty Fever. Frank has spent decades lighting up stages across the country and abroad, sharing his extraordinary voice and musicianship with fans around the world. His uncanny resemblance to Tom Petty—both in tone and presence—has earned him a reputation as one of the finest tribute performers working today. Frank opens up about the formation of Petty Fever back in 2009, his lifelong connection to Petty’s music, and the passion that fuels each performance. Through MJ’s conversation, listeners get an intimate portrait of a frontman whose mission goes beyond imitation—it’s about honoring a legacy, building community through music, and keeping the timeless spirit of Tom Petty alive one song, one audience, and one heartfelt night at a time. Petty Fever: http://www.pettyfever.com

In this special three-part series of The Art Box, host MJ takes us home to Oregon for an intimate look at the stories, friendships, and creative spark that drive Petty Fever, the award-winning Tom Petty tribute band beloved across the Northwest and beyond. Through personal connections with the band and their families, MJ explores the music that shaped their lives, the heart behind their performances, and the shared passion that keeps classic rock alive for a new generation. Life Behind the Music goes deeper than the stage—into the people, places, and moments that make the music matter. In the opening episode of Life Behind The Music, host MJ reconnects with longtime friend and PNW native Craig Ostbo, a man whose rhythm bridges two worlds: boardrooms and backbeats. As CEO of Oh! Strategic Branding in Portland, Craig has spent more than three decades shaping the identities of some of the most trusted names in natural and sustainable foods while teaching, mentoring, and guiding the next generation of brand thinkers. But behind the strategy lies the drummer’s soul. Craig shares how his early passion for music never left him, leading to more than fifty performances a year with Petty Fever, the award-winning Tom Petty tribute band loved nationwide. In this heartfelt conversation, MJ and Craig explore the harmony between creativity and commerce, how rhythm informs leadership, and why the pulse of music still drives him—both on stage and in life. Learn more about Oh! Strategic Branding: https://www.ceohglobal.com/ Petty Fever: http://www.pettyfever.com

In this special episode, co-founder Steve Dudrow takes a thoughtful pause to share what’s been happening behind the scenes at The Art Box Podcast. After a brief lull between episodes, Steve catches listeners up on the many creative directions the team has been pursuing, from public art projects and poetry collections to new podcast adventures and community outreach. Hear updates on Mesquite Works STEAM Center’s “STEAM into 2026” campaign, the Mesquite First Friday Family Art Walk, and a sneak peek at our newest sister series, Alternate Realms. Steve also shares what co-hosts Suzie White, MJ Stiles, and Sandi Randelle have been up to, plus news from favorite past guests, public art milestones, and a few heartfelt reflections from The Art Box’s ever-curious research assistant, Addison. To close, enjoy two preview poems from our upcoming Harvest of Thought special project, featuring beautiful original works by Heather Lang-Cassara and Annie MacKenzie, a taste of the inspiring voices soon to come. It’s a moment to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with the creative pulse that keeps The Art Box beating strong.

The Art Box travels to Las Vegas to explore one of the valley’s most dynamic creative spaces — the Winchester Dondero Cultural Center. Our guest is Irma Varela, the visionary Cultural Program Supervisor who has spent decades shaping a place where artists, performers, and neighbors gather to imagine and create. Irma shares the story behind the Center’s mission to nurture community through the arts, from neighborhood murals and cross-cultural festivals to intimate performances and workshops that give every voice a place. We talk about her own journey in arts leadership, how ideas become action, and why accessible cultural spaces matter more than ever. If you’ve ever wondered how creativity builds connection and resilience, this episode will inspire you to dream a little bigger for your own community. Join The Art Box on November 2nd at the 2025 - 24th Annual Life in Death Festival Find out more by visiting their web site: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/parks___recreation/cultural_division/winchester_dondero_cultural_center/

In this inspiring conversation, we sit down with Cory Clemetson, founder along with his brother Chad of the Kids for Sports Foundation, a nonprofit committed to helping children in Mesquite and the Virgin Valley experience the joy and life lessons of organized athletics. Cory shares the story behind starting the foundation, the moment he realized cost was keeping too many kids on the sidelines, and how his team works to remove barriers so every child who wants to play can join in. Beyond sports, Cory talks about the deeper mission: building character, confidence, and community connection. We explore how access to athletics shapes friendships, resilience, and healthy habits, and how Wolf Creek’s local partnerships and fundraising efforts keep that mission alive. It’s a look at how one idea, born out of noticing a gap, has grown into a movement giving young people a chance to dream, compete, and belong. It is our mission to ensure kids are given the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of playing organized sports. We do this by helping remove financial and other barriers that prevent kids from participating in sports. How to help: https://www.kidsforsportsfoundation.org/apply-for-grant This episode is brought to you by Art Box by Liezl at 707 East Fremont Street, Las Vegas, Nevada 89101

In Episode 359 of The Art Box, MJ and Steve welcome Kirsten Pope to the STEAM Center recording studio for a lively conversation about IKA Greens, the innovative business she runs with her husband, Alex. We dig into what “IKA” really stands for, how their operation is changing the way our community thinks about fresh, locally grown produce, and why sustainable food systems matter now more than ever. Kirsten shares the story behind their business, their vision for the future of farming in the desert, and what it’s like to run a family business with purpose. This episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and maybe even a little encouragement to get your hands dirty, or at least to eat more greens! You can find IKA Greens open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM at Baja Imports (410 W Mesquite Blvd, Mesquite, NV 89027). Stop by for fresh, locally grown veggies, and don’t miss their delicious soups and creative salad options. Enjoy them on the spot or take them home, and stay a while to catch up with neighbors. It’s fresh food and good community all in one stop! Did we mention they have fresh doggie treats. Find out more at: https://www.ikagreens.com/

In this calming, reflective and short episode of The Art Box, Steve invites listeners to slow down and discover the practice of forest bathing, the Japanese art of shinrin-yoku, or “bathing” in the forest atmosphere. Steve explores what forest bathing is, the science behind its benefits, from lowered stress and blood pressure to boosted immunity, and why it has become such a powerful wellness movement around the world. He shares his own experiences, from dozing under ponderosa pines at Mount Charleston to finding peace among Joshua trees and ravens during his residency at Avi Kwa Ame National Monument. Finally, Steve offers practical tips for creating your own version of forest (or desert!) bathing right here in the Mojave, including how to stay safe, find shade, and connect with the sounds and scents of the desert. Whether you’re a nature lover, an artist, or just in need of a mental reset, this episode will leave you breathing a little deeper and seeing the world with fresh eyes.