The Art Box

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.

In this inspiring episode of The Art Box, MJ sits down with her friend Oregon golfer Chris Oviatt, the 2024 NAGA Women’s Overall National Champion and Western Region representative for the 2025 USGA Adaptive Open Championship. Chris shares her 32-year journey as a competitive golfer, living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and how braces, a cane, and a positive outlook help her keep playing the sport she loves. She talks about her many victories, including 20 club championships and a win at the Arrowhead Ladies Invitational with 108 competitors, and her philosophy of “play well and have fun.” Join us for an uplifting conversation about perseverance, passion, and what it means to stay dedicated and motivated on and off the course.

In this inspiring episode of The Art Box, we sit down with Mesquite actor Bill Wright Jr. to explore how a soldier became a storyteller. Bill shares how his time in the U.S. Army taught him to speak confidently in front of crowds and cameras, and how reciting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech became a defining moment in his life. That experience opened the door to his first performances in church plays and, eventually, to the Mesquite Community Theatre, where he now shines as one of its key actors, taking on a wide range of roles with passion and purpose. Join us as we talk about courage, creativity, and the unexpected roads that lead us to the stage. Mesquite Community Theatre tickets can be purchased here: https://mctnv.com/

The Art Box – Episode 355: Echoes of Belonging In this deeply personal conversation, three friends, Mary Jane Stiles, Eydie Ann Lieberman, and William R. Marye, open up about lives shaped by an absence: the missing threads of an unknown or absent parent. Together, they reflect on the emotional weight of not knowing where you come from, how long-kept secrets shaped their sense of self, and what it means to reconnect, or not, with family decades later. This is an episode about identity, loss, resilience, and the winding, unexpected paths we walk in search of belonging. We also want to give a special nod to MJ, who has been with The Art Box team for several months now. Her thoughtful approach and curiosity have broadened our subject matter, opening space for conversations that dive deep into humanity, love, and discovery. A quick note: our apologies for the occasional roughness in Bill’s audio. Seems the signal lines around the Chesapeake Bay weren’t entirely on our side that day.

In this special follow-up episode, MJ sits down once again with Linda Villanueva of the Mesquite Cafe Blues Band to catch up on her ever-expanding creative journey. While the band proudly calls Mesquite home, their music now reaches even farther with performances in Las Vegas and Laughlin, sharing their soulful blend of blues and rock with new audiences. Beyond the stage, Linda is a familiar face in Mesquites' cultural scene, bringing her energy and artistry to groups like the Mesquite Showgirls and the Mesquite Toes dance troupe, where she helps foster connection, joy, and community spirit. Together, they talk about the rhythm of balancing music, performance, and service, and how creativity becomes even more powerful when it’s shared. This episode celebrates not only Linda’s bluesy voice but also her role as a heartbeat in Mesquites' vibrant arts community. Find more at: https://mesquitecafebluesband.com/

In this episode of The Art Box, we sat down at Mystery Ranch, with Kym Martin, Outreach Coordinator for Desert Love Native Plants, a nonprofit nursery rooted at Cactus Joe’s near the Red Rock Canyon foothills. Desert Love is more than a nursery, it’s a movement to make native plants accessible while inspiring communities to reimagine their landscapes and become stewards of the desert. Kym shares her journey from 15 years of teaching English to cultivating a new classroom in the desert, where lessons come from yucca, creosote, and the quiet resilience of native flora. She lights up when talking about her favorite, the globe mallow, an unassuming wildflower that paints the desert in bursts of orange. Just as the mallow creates color and habitat, Kym envisions building native plant corridors throughout the city, stitching together pockets where pollinators, birds, and people alike can thrive. With a background in permaculture and water-harvesting, she brings both knowledge and passion to her role, reminding us how native plants can reshape not only our landscapes, but our communities. Learn more at: https://www.desertlovelv.org/

In a very special episode of The Art Box, we hand the microphone to an unlikely guest , Josie the Joshua Tree, a wise and witty desert elder rooted at Mystery Ranch in Avi Kwa Ame National Monument. With humor and heart, Josie reflects on centuries of desert life: from her partnership with yucca moths to raising quail families in her shade, from Kim Garrison Means’ childhood at the ranch to witnessing Avi Kwa Ame’s designation as a National Monument. Along the way, Josie shares her fears, fire, machines, and careless human hands, and her hopes, as the Mojave’s future is safeguarded through protection, research, and community. The Art Box research assistant Addie drops in with science on Joshua Tree species, and host Steve closes with reflections from his Mojave Shadows project. This imaginative blend of storytelling, science, and desert wisdom is both playful and profound, a reminder that even in the Mojave, every shadow tells a story.

This episode was deeply personal for me. I had the privilege of sitting down with Alan O’Neill, a man whose life’s work has been devoted to protecting America’s public lands and keeping them open for all of us to experience. Our conversation took place at Mystery Ranch during my art/science residency, with the vast Mojave Desert stretching out below us, a view that matched the depth and meaning of our discussion. To research, record, and share this story was not only exciting, but profoundly moving for me as both an artist and a steward of these lands. In this episode, we welcome Alan O’Neill, retired superintendent of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, to reflect on a lifetime dedicated to the stewardship of public lands. Growing up in Washington, D.C., Alan shares how his early summers spent exploring the West with his mother and identical twin brother, sparked a deep connection to the National Parks that would shape his career. We dive into his pivotal role in collaborating with the Searchlight community and tribal nations to secure protection for Avi Kwa Ame, culminating in its designation as a National Monument. Along the way, Alan offers thoughtful insights into the power of partnerships, the importance of listening, and the enduring responsibility to safeguard America’s natural and cultural treasures for future generations.

MJ welcomes back Paul and Linda of the Mesquite Café Blues Band for a fresh conversation about their musical journey. Since their last appearance on The Art Box in early 2023 (with hosts Linda Harris and Rachel Washington), the band has been on the rise, splitting their performances between Mesquite, Las Vegas, and Laughlin. Known for blending soulful blues with driving rock, their sound now reaches wider audiences while still staying true to their hometown roots. In this episode, Paul and Linda share stories from the road, the thrill of bigger stages, and why Mesquite will always be the heartbeat of their music. You can find them at: https://mesquitecafebluesband.com/

In this episode of The Art Box, we welcome Dulce Sol, an emerging Las Vegas poet whose words are steeped in dreams, travel, and self-discovery. Since beginning her poetic journey at just 17, Dulce has evolved into a voice that blends the surreal with the lived, weaving imagination and memory into verses that resonate with honesty and wonder. We explore how her dreams often spark poetic imagery, how world travel expanded her vision and deepened her creative vocabulary, and how her growth as a poet reflects both personal and artistic transformation. Adding a special dimension to our recording was Dulce’s one-year-old daughter, Briana, who punctuated the conversation with laughter and reactions to her mother’s voice, reminding us how poetry, like life, is never separate from the moment we’re in. Dolce Sol is an up-and-coming regional poet to watch, her work carries the pulse of lived experience and the promise of a rising voice in contemporary poetry.

Hard to believe it’s been a year since we first sat down with Junior Baeza back in Episode 220 to talk about a dream of bringing a unique artisan bakery to Mesquite. That vision, shared with his wife Sabra, has now blossomed into Fat Dough, a beloved cornerstone of our community. On this special one-year anniversary episode, Junior dropped by The Mesquite Works STEAM Center Art Box studio on a Friday evening to reflect on the bakery’s journey. From the challenges of opening day to the sweet success of fresh bread, soups, and pastries that fill the air with irresistible aromas, Fat Dough has become much more than a place to grab a bite. It’s a gathering space, a hub of warmth, and, thanks to the dedicated team Junior and Sabra have built, a true community family. Join us as we revisit the vision, celebrate the milestones, and share in the story of how Fat Dough has risen * pun intended * into something that nourishes both body and soul in our little town. Find Fat Dough: Address: 12 W Mesquite Blvd , Mesquite, NV, United States, Nevada (702) 344-5544 Email: [email protected] Instagram: @fatdoughbakery Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563605806180

When most think of art, the first thing they think of is painting, drawing, ceramics, wood working, jewelry making or photography. In the past few years, the imagination of the public has been captured by chefs or culinary artists, creating art with food design and presentation. It is through their creative process of imagining and blending art and science that chefs create art that is not only pleasing to the eye, but to the palate as well. In Mesquite, we are incredibly lucky to have Chef Ayelet, (pronounced "I Yell It"), who creates cooking classes for the entire community. She arrived in Mesquite after holding positions such as the Lead Pastry Chef at the Ritz Carlton, Chicago and at the Montage, Park City. She also owned and operated her own restaurant and catering businesses in Chicago. I worked with Chef Ayelet on a private cooking class series with the Desert Dames social club during 2024 to 2025. Chef Ayelet offered 8 classes attended by 60 Desert Dames students. Some of the classes she offered were: Fall Soups & Artisan Bread featuring French Onion Soup, Chicken Tortilla Soup and fresh Sourdough with Herbs. Spanish Tapas, Paella and Sangria classes with a sit down, family style dinner format were a hit and held in the spring. An Asian inspired Salad class offered recipes that anticipated the summer heat. Chef Ayelet has an email list that she distributes at the end of the month to publicize her upcoming classes. In addition, she makes and sells her cakes for all occasions, will host private parties at her home and is open to cooking and baking for special events. Text Chef Ayelet at (847) 366-4657 and mention, "cooking class schedule" or email her at [email protected] and ask to be added to her email distribution list. Chef Ayelet will send emails with her cooking class schedules throughout the year. Do not wait to text your cooking class reservation, as classes sell out very quickly.

In this episode of The Art Box, we sit down with Mickey Sprott, a powerhouse in Nevada’s arts landscape and the Program Administrator for Public Art at Clark County’s Department of Parks and Recreation. Mickey leads a vibrant and multifaceted public arts program that reaches both rural and urban communities, bringing large-scale public art installations to life, mentoring professional and emerging artists, and supporting youth through creative education. Under her leadership, the Public Arts Office also operates three dynamic galleries, oversees the conservation of the county’s public art collection, and supports the literary arts through programs like the Clark County Poet Laureate, The Ink Well initiative, and funding for local poets to perform and teach. Mickey brings deep experience to her work, with a Master’s in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s in Art, and years of leadership roles, including board director for the Southern Nevada Art Coalition, former chair of the Las Vegas Arts Commission, and Henderson Arts Advisory Commissioner. She also played a key role as project manager for the 1 October Memorial Committee, helping bring the powerful Forever One Memorial to vision through JCJ Architecture. Join us for a rich conversation on public art, civic impact, and what it takes to build a cultural legacy that speaks to all corners of a community. For more information follow this link: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/parks___recreation/services/public_art/

Welcome to The Art Box, where creativity meets community. In Episode 345, Everybody Has A Story To Tell, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Terri Fitzsimmons—a published author, longtime educator, and generous supporter of local non-profits. Terri brings a deep well of life experience and a passion for storytelling that resonates far beyond the page. Whether she’s mentoring young writers, organizing community events, or penning her next piece, Terri leads with heart. Sandi and I had the pleasure of sitting down with her in our STEAM Center recording studio for a conversation filled with warmth, wisdom, and a few surprises. So grab a cup of something cozy, settle in, and enjoy our chat with the inspiring Terri Fitzsimmons. You can find Terri's Books at this link: https://www.amazon.com/stores/T.K.-Banner/author/B09ZJ72M5Y?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=e16f6b49-856c-4e9a-ac06-1d39443b550b

In this special Art Box public service episode, we shine a spotlight on a beloved community cornerstone: the Mesquite Senior Games. Founded 24 years ago to promote health and well-being through sports for seniors, the Games have grown from a local initiative into an internationally recognized event, drawing competitors from around the globe. Host Diana Lee Rose welcomes the dynamic Sandy Tudor, Executive Director of the Mesquite Senior Games, for an inspiring conversation about the organization's impact, exciting plans for this fall, and a look ahead to 2026. From pickleball to softball to golf, it’s more than just competition, it’s about community, vitality, and celebrating life at every age. Find out more here: https://www.mesquiteseniorgames.org/

Hosted by MJ Stiles | Recorded at the Mesquite Works STEAM Center In this soulful and moving episode of The Art Box, MJ Stiles sits down with acclaimed musician and storyteller John McAndrew, a man whose music has reached audiences around the world, featured in major films, national events, and Grammy-considered albums. With a voice as raw as it is inspiring, John shares his journey of redemption, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth through song. From the legendary Muscle Shoals Sound Studio to the heart of Nashville, from film soundtracks to Off-Broadway acclaim, John’s career has spanned genres and generations. His albums Forgiven and Souls garnered Grammy attention in the Roots Gospel and Americana categories, and his upcoming album Better Side of Me, produced by Denny Seiwell and Fernando Perdomo, promises to be his most powerful work yet. Together, MJ and John discuss how songwriting can heal both writer and listener, and why storytelling remains at the heart of all great music. Whether you’re a blues lover, Americana fan, or simply drawn to the sound of hard-won wisdom, this episode offers a deep dive into a life made of melody, grit, and grace. Learn more about John: https://johnmcandrew.com/

In this episode of The Art Box, Steve reconnects with muralist and musician Tanoo, a passionate artist whose mission is to bring public art and deeper meaning to overlooked spaces in downtown Las Vegas. After meeting Tanoo at the Fremont Street Spring Fair hosted by our friend Liezl, Steve knew this was a conversation worth having. What started as a simple idea for a podcast took a profound turn when Tanoo revealed he’s also a Buddhist monk living at Watpa Temple in Las Vegas. With artist and fellow seeker Jeannie Hua joining as co-host, Steve visited the temple for a heartfelt evening filled with laughter, wisdom, and unexpected revelations—including a brief moment of confusion when Tanoo’s shaved head threw Steve off at the gate. This episode explores Tanoo’s journey through art, spirituality, and service, from his murals on 14th Street to his reflections on Buddhism, creativity, music, and the light we all carry within. You’ll hear about the healing power of public art, the discipline of monkhood, and the ever-curious nature of the human third eye. Stick around to the end to hear Tanoo’s original track: “Real Eyes Realize Real Lies.” (Note: We had over two hours of beautiful conversation with Tanoo—so Steve had his work cut out trimming this down to an hour. Believe us when we say, there’s more we wish we could have shared.) Should you wish to contact Tanoo he can be reached at: [email protected] Learn more about Watpa Buddhayan Meditation Center at: https://www.watpabuddhayan.org/

In this special episode of The Art Box, host Steve sits down with Ian Wright and Lexie Little, leaders of the Utah Cultural Site Stewardship Program, to discuss a powerful intersection of history, preservation, and storytelling. Ian and Lexie share the journey behind their extensive research and collaboration to create the Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Trail, a statewide interpretive project that shines a long-overdue spotlight on the Black soldiers who served in the American West. Their efforts culminated in the publication of the remarkable book Utah’s Buffalo Soldier Heritage Trail: Legacy of Black Soldiers Who Helped Shape the American West, which documents the contributions, courage, and complexity of these soldiers’ stories. From forgotten campsites to historic forts, and through community engagement and public history, this conversation explores how we remember, honor, and preserve the narratives that shaped our nation—one trail marker at a time.

Welcome to The Art Box! I’m your host, MJ Stiles, and today we’re recording from our Mesquite Works STEAM Center studio with someone who’s been lighting up the local art scene since his early teens. Liam Gutierrez has been a featured artist at Juniper Outpost Boutique in Mesquite, Nevada since he was just 14 years old. Beloved by customers and deeply appreciated by shop owners Charlotte and David, Liam’s work is a staple of the boutique’s vibrant, creative atmosphere. Whether it’s intricate crochet, bold digital designs, or one-of-a-kind jewelry, Liam brings a fearless and joyful approach to everything he creates. Now, having just graduated high school, Liam is stepping boldly into the professional art world. In his own words: “Hi! My name is Liam Gutierrez, and I'm an artist! Crochet, jewelry making, digital art—there isn't anything that's tripped me up yet! For as long as I can recall, art has been a huge part of my life and who I am. Now that I’ve graduated, I’m ready to enter the professional art world and make a name for myself!” Today’s episode is all about creative courage, growing up with artistic passion, and what it means to turn that passion into a career. Let’s dive in!

Welcome to The Art Box. If you're one of our many loyal listeners tuning in from across all 50 states and 59 countries, you know that while we often focus on the arts, we occasionally wander—intentionally—into other realms of creativity, heart, and human experience. After all, we believe that nearly everything in life holds an element of art. Today, we’re joined once again by our friend and frequent guest, Shannon McConnell, in our recording studio at the Mesquite Works STEAM Center. Shannon is no stranger to our show. As a retired engineer from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, she usually brings us stories of science, engineering, and space exploration. Now living with her husband, Scott, in St. George, Utah, Shannon continues to enrich our STEAM programs with her insight and passion. But today’s episode is different. Shannon opens up about a deeply personal journey, the loss of her family home to the wildfires in Eaton, California. It's a story of survival, of families who escaped with their lives, yet left behind cherished memories and decades of life built within those walls. Through the heartache, there’s also healing, told symbolically through the roses now blooming once again in their new Utah home. We invite you to listen closely, not just to a story of loss, but to one of resilience, reflection, and the quiet artistry of starting over. Thank you Shannon and Scott. The episode picture was taken by Ian McConnell.

In this vibrant episode of The Art Box, MJ sits down with her friend and fellow creative spirit, Melissa Osburg, for a wide-ranging and heartfelt conversation about art, healing, and finding joy through color. A self-taught abstract and mixed media artist originally from New Orleans and now based in Texas, Melissa shares how painting became a form of therapy during a challenging time in her life. Since 2016, Melissa has embraced art not just as an outlet, but as a powerful emotional language, one that allows her to translate anxiety, imagination, and joy into bold, hand-painted works full of life. She opens up about her love of bright, fearless color, and how her work in acrylic, watercolor, oil, and mixed media helps her connect with others through pure visual energy. Together, MJ and Melissa explore the emotional honesty of abstraction, the transformative power of creativity, and how art can become a guiding light, both for the artist and those who experience it. Melissa's Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MosburgartStudio?ref=related&from_page=listing&listing_id=1823865807&dd_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F Melissa is on Instagram @mosburgart

In this heartwarming episode, Steve had the pleasure of sitting down with his friends, and the dynamic brother-sister duo, Ara and Juan Fernanda, at the Mesquite Works STEAM Center studio. Together, they share the story behind Fat Dough Bakery, where baking is more than a craft, it’s a sensory experience and a service-driven passion. We journey back to their childhood memories of the aromas and flavors from their hometown bakeries in Mexico and explore how those early impressions shaped their philosophy of baking today. Juan and Ara describe how interpreting a recipe involves more than just measurements, it's about listening, smelling, feeling, and connecting with the dough as it comes to life. Juan also shares his love for music and how rhythm and creativity flow from his instruments to his ingredients, while Ara reveals her incredible gift for remembering each customer’s favorites, helping guide them to their next culinary delight. Steve also brings up their seamless ability to shift between Spanish and English, an everyday superpower in both kitchen and community. You can also catch Ara live most mornings on Fat Dough Facebook, where she brings energy and charm to daily updates about what’s fresh at Fat Dough, from pastries and soups to lunch specials. This episode is filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of thoughtful storytelling that makes you want to run out for a fresh bolillo and say hello to your local baker. Don’t miss this conversation with two truly sweet humans.