The Art Box

We had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Withanee Andersen , co-author of Walk of Ages. Join us for an inspiring conversation as Withanee shares the story behind her incredible 131-mile hike from Mount Whitney, the highest point in the continental U.S., to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in Death Valley National Park. This journey, inspired by her father, Jim Andersen, is as heartfelt as it is extraordinary. Our wide-ranging discussion touches on the motivations for this grueling trek, the challenges faced along the way—bumps, bruises, wildfires, and oxygen deprivation—as well as moments of joy, engagement rings, French toast, and beer. This episode will make you laugh, bring a tear to your eye, and leave you in awe of Withanee’s determination and humanity. Don’t miss this incredible story! Withanee Andersen earned her bachelor’s degree from the Reynold’s School of Journalism at the University of Nevada, Reno. Her first published article was included in Sagebrushed: Coming of Age and Working in Nevada. She was a wildland firefighter for many years and is now the communications coordinator for the City of Sparks in Nevada. Jim Andersen (1944–2022) was a freelance writer whose career began in 1980 with Nevada Magazine. He also wrote for the Battle Mountain Bugle and the Reese River Reveille. In 2005, he received first place from the Nevada Press Association for the Best Local Non-Staff Column. He is the author of Lost in Austin: A Nevada Memoir and Sometimes a Great notions, Isn’t, so much. This book is his final work. Click here to purchase "Walk of Ages" on Amazon.

I’m genuinely at a loss for words to capture my conversation with Myranda Bair, it was inspiring, delightful, insightful, and so much fun. I wished it could have gone on forever! This is one of those episodes you simply have to experience for yourself. Myranda is truly one of the most remarkable individuals gracing our planet. Thank you, Myranda! Now, everyone, don’t miss this, tune in and enjoy! Visit Myranda's web page at: https://myrandabair.carbonmade.com/ Instagram @mypandabair Myranda Bair is an artist, educator, avid rock climber, natural space advocator, animal lover, and mediocre farmer. Her work focuses on conservation and how community education can lead to a richer outdoor experience for all while simultaneously reflecting the importance of preserving natural areas. She received her MFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) and her BFA from the University of Texas at Austin. Myranda has exhibited work across the country and participated in various residences, recent ones including Red Rock Canyon NCA (2014), Wildlife Divide (2013), and The Vermont Studio Center (2012). She continues to partner with the Red Rock Canyon Interpretive Association and the Desert Tortoise Habitat. Currently, she is a faculty member for the College of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas.

Steve capped off his trip to Scottsdale with an enlightening visit with Lauren O'Connell, curator of contemporary art at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) in Arizona. The inspiring and thought-provoking conversation left him smiling all the way home on the drive back to Mesquite. Lauren is a curator, writer, and educator focusing on contemporary art. Lauren previously held positions at San Francisco Museum of Modern Art in the Architecture and Design Department and UC Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive where she organized Architecture of Life (2016) with former director Lawrence Rinder and worked on numerous MATRIX projects and collection shows. ​ Her curatorial practice is rooted in artist-centric projects that expand and challenge artistic medium, critical dialogue, relational experiences, and art historical cannons. She has worked on special projects with artists including Tarek Atoui, Kristin Bauer, Diedrick Brackens, York Chang, Mimi O Chun, Martin Soto Climent, Otobong Nkanga, Kameelah Janan Rasheed, Jean Shin, Anna Tsouhlarakis, and Qiu Zhijie. O'Connell's research positions contemporary art as an avenue to examine social reality through epistemological examination, speculative and historical (re)formations, mythology, and constructed environments. Her research process involves exhibition-making, artist engagement, and community-building. O'Connell is the author of Language in Times of Miscommunication: Art Critical of Social Reality (SMoCA, 2023) and co-author of Dorothy Fratt: Works (Radius Books, 2023). Her writing can be found in publications including New Time: Art & Feminism in the 21st Century (UC Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, 2021) and Harvey Quaytman: Against the Static (University of California Press, 2018). Click here to learn more about Lauren: https://www.loconnell.com/about.html

Steve had the distinct pleasure of visiting Scottsdale, AZ, to engage in an inspiring conversation with Laura Hales, curator for the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts' Center Gallery. With Linda traveling, our good friend and frequent guest Jen Urso stepped in as co-host. Don’t miss this captivating discussion. Enjoy! Laura Hales curates Center Space, a community-based art gallery inside Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Her goal is to create thought-provoking and educational exhibitions, collaborating with field experts and Arizona-based artists. Recent exhibitions include: Unintended Consequences (2023), a group show about the human destruction of the desert, featuring artists Monica Aissa Martinez, Carolyn Lavender, and Mary Shindell; and Coming to Terms, (2023-24) a group show in collaboration with Dr. Anjan Chatterjee, director of the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics. She is working on an upcoming exhibition for Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, also with Chatterjee and relating to neuroaesthetics, called Brains and Beauty: At the Intersection of Art and Neuroscience (opening August 2024). Hales has published research articles in Studies in Art Education, a national research journal. She leads arts and wellness programming initiatives at Scottsdale Arts. Click here to find out more about “ArtRx: The Mind-Body Connection” and Laura Hales

In this episode of The Art Box, we have the privilege of speaking with Nancy Alain, a Las Vegas-based artist whose powerful work is deeply informed by her 20-year career in the foreign service. Having served in some of the world's most conflict-ridden and impoverished regions, Nancy shares extraordinary stories of how creativity can flourish even amidst war, scarcity, and adversity. Discover how her experiences shaped her artistic vision, the compelling narratives behind her pieces, and how she continues to draw inspiration from the vibrant Las Vegas community. This episode is a testament to resilience, artistry, and the transformative power of imagination—perfect for creators and art lovers alike. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lasvegasarttourism/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063560317733 Nancy's web site: https://nancy-alain.weebly.com/

Linda and Steve had the absolute pleasure of a wide ranging conversation with Tony Chavez. Tony's interests are varied and inspiring, we chatted about algae based carbon capture, love of our environment, art of manifesting ideas to reality, recycling and he sent us both down a rabbit hole researching Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Tony is an ultra interesting guest and you will enjoy this discussion, we sure did. Tony mentioned Recycled Propaganda and you can learn about them at this link: https://recycledpropaganda.com/ Tony was introduced to us via his girlfriend Lydia Wolfe who also happens to be our episode 175 - "Treat Life Like Art" guest.

Meet Pablo Gonzales Flores, an extraordinary artist introduced to us by Nancy Good at Core Contemporary. Pablo's work transcends boundaries, drawing inspiration from the vibrant palettes used by American Indigenous creators. His visions are deeply rooted in ancestral traditions, beliefs, Zoomorpism, and knowledge, offering a profound connection to history through his art. Sit back and immerse yourself in this engaging artist talk as Pablo shares his creative passions and unique methods. Contact Pablo at: https://pablogf.com/ and on Instagram at: @pablo.gonzalezflores

Mesquite had the honor of hosting Clark County, Nevada Poet Laureate Ms. AyeVee (Ashley Vargas) last Tuesday. She captivated the audience as the November guest for the Brown Bag Cultural Series at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center, followed by a special visit to the Mesquite Works STEAM Center to record the milestone 250th episode of The Art Box podcast. Steve first connected with Ashley during the creation of the Modern Desert Markings project, an exhibition at the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art sponsored by Nevadans for Cultural Preservation through grants from the Nevada Arts Council and Nevada Humanities. Her evocative work, Poem for the Ages, was prominently featured in the exhibit and revisited in The Art Box Episode 91. Ashley "Ms.AyeVee" Vargas is an award-winning Afro-Latina Literary Artist from Las Vegas, Nevada. She is a woman of many hats with a passion for Poetry. Her work has been featured by The legendary All Def Poetry, Write About Now & Button Poetry. She has also been recognized by the Las Vegas Book Festival, Nevada Public Radio, & The US Congress for advancing the cause of literacy & extraordinary literary achievement. In 2022, Ms. AyeVee was selected as an official TEDx speaker for Las Vegas. She also runs a Las Vegas-based poetry organization, Beyond the Neon (@btnpoetry), focusing on poetry-exclusive events and community outreach. You can follow Ms. AyeVee at: https://linktr.ee/Msayevee

Join us for a special 2024 Veterans Day episode featuring Dean Nakayama as he shares stories from his life before, during, and after his career as a Naval Aviator. Linda spotted Dean on the dance floor at Casa and invited him to join us, and what a fascinating conversation it turned out to be! From his service on the USS Midway and his time with the Naval Weapons Evaluation Facility to piloting balloons and becoming a snowbird in Mesquite, Dean’s journey is filled with incredible experiences, humor, and heart. We’re grateful for this beautiful conversation with an inspiring individual, and we know you’ll enjoy it too. Thank you, Dean, for your service and for sharing your story with us.

Vintage Guys, Vintage Rock. The guys from Chicago will be back on stage at the Mesquite Community Theatre on Saturday, November 16 at 7 PM in concert benefitting the Virgin Valley Community Food Bank. Suzie recently gathered them in our Mesquite Works STEAM Center recording studio to chat about their upcoming show, nuns with rulers, growing up in Chicago and how they determine their play list. Drop in for a fun discussion and then buy your tickets on-line at the link below. Purchase Tickets Here.

Wow, what an inspiring conversation we had with therapeutic art practitioner Champagne Roca! We explored carving out personal space, the layered nature of therapy, capturing visual snapshots, the powerful influence of her grandmother, the value of peer collaboration, and her creative passions. So, grab your headphones, settle in with your latest art project, and enjoy this chat with a true Las Vegas gem! Instagram Contact.

Join host Floyd Johnson as he sits down with Linda Harris to delve into the story behind her award-winning watercolor piece, Homeless, But Not Invisible Now, which earned "Best of Show" in the Beneath the Surface exhibition at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center. Every work of art has a journey, and Linda’s creation reaches back to when we first started broadcasting from the Mesquite Library Learning Center. With deep compassion and heartfelt expression, Linda sheds light on the often-overlooked stories of our homeless community. Tune in to this brief yet powerful episode filled with love and understanding, and discover why, through her art, Linda reminds us that no one is truly invisible.

We had a fantastic morning with Suzie as she spent time with the Delta Straight Band during their rehearsal for the upcoming Tribute to the Blues show at the Mesquite Community Theatre, happening on November 2 at 7 PM. She also sat down with the band’s harmonica player, Wayne "Night Train" Andreola, for an engaging conversation about all things blues. Don’t miss this exciting show and the inside scoop from one of the best in the business! Purchase tickets by clicking here. Follow on Facebook.

Join us for an engaging conversation with playwright Ray Haste as he delves into the creation of his upcoming short film, set to premiere at the Mesquite Community Theatre November 7 @ 7 PM. Filmed across six states over two years, the production recently concluded its final scenes in Beaver Dam, Arizona. Don't miss this exciting behind-the-scenes look at Ray's journey from script to screen! Click here for the trailer.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6QeqDMSays Click here to purchase tickets.

A special shout-out to Nancy Good of Core Contemporary for introducing us to the incredible artist, Linda Shaffer. While Linda Harris was away attending a watercolor workshop in Utah, our friend Cynthia Delaney graciously stepped in as co-host. Together, we enjoyed a delightful conversation with the multi-talented Linda Shaffer, whose creativity spans various disciplines. So, kick off your shoes, slip into something comfy, and join us for a lively and inspiring chat about the vibrant art scene in Las Vegas! Click here to learn more about Linda's art. Linda mentions the "Artists in Action Show" in Boulder City on November 2-3, click here to learn more.

Suzie recently had the honor of speaking with four incredible cancer survivors at The Mesquite Cancer Help Society, a compassionate resource founded in 2001 by Yoli Bell and Anna Medlin. Located at 150 N Yucca St #36, this center offers cancer patients vital guidance, financial assistance, and emotional and mental support. Here, individuals receive the tools they need to manage their care and the encouragement to embrace the journey of survivorship. In unity, the spirit to fight and hope thrives! For support or more information, contact them at 702-346-0622 or email: [email protected]. Their hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 am - 3 pm, and Thursday from 10 am - 1 pm. Suzie is a cancer survivor herself and we appreciate her for gathering these other four heroes for a conversation.

We’ve broadened our search for talent to Florida’s East Coast, featuring young entrepreneur and artist Sophia Perez. A senior at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Sophia is the owner of DesignsbySoph and actively volunteers at her local library and youth camps, where she teaches painting. Settle in as we explore Sophia's infectious enthusiasm and unique artistry, discussing the impact of her parents, her perspective on education during COVID, and her plans to continue her studies in Colorado while growing her business. Click here for Sophia's business web site. Click here for Instagram page Want to lean more about Marjory Stoneman Douglas click here

After wrapping up our work on National Public Lands Day at Basin and Range National Monument, Steve sat down with fellow volunteer Janet Barth, who was crafting cord from Mojave Yucca fibers. Gathered under a tarp (you'll hear the wind in the background), we were joined by Suzanne, Dave, and Teresa for a lively chat about Janet's unique hobby and the wonders of public lands. Close your eyes, imagine you're with us in Basin and Range, and enjoy our fun conversation—complete with stories about bathtubs full of bulrush and more! Find out more about Friends of Basin and Range National Monument by clicking here. Join us next year for public lands day learn more here.

It didn’t take much to get Linda’s friend, Donna Schorr, to join our podcast for a lively conversation on fitness. Donna, a high-intensity fitness and yoga instructor with the Mesquite Athletics and Leisure Services Department, brings her energy to the table. Joining her is Victoria Hafen, an inspiring nutrition and weight loss coach from the Mesquite Recreation Center. Sit back and enjoy as Linda guides an engaging, high-energy discussion with Donna and Victoria on the perfect balance of food and fitness. You can find out about classes and register by clicking here.

Norman Utley, co-owner of Alt Om Bling, dropped by the STEAM Center recording studio alongside Meanwhile in Mesquite host Suzie White to build excitement for this Saturday's Mesquite Welcome Back Treasure Hunt (October 5). Slip on your headphones and get the inside scoop on the clues that just might lead you to hidden treasure! Even if you don't strike gold, you'll have a blast exploring five incredible local shops. Click here to find out more. Stick around as Suzie hangs out in the shops a bit on Saturday.

Linda and Steve had the pleasure of welcoming the dynamic duo, Haylee Benglan and Paige Woods, co-owners of BEBRAVE Athletics, into the Mesquite Works STEAM Center recording studio. Together, they discussed the incredible impact BEBRAVE is making in our community. Haylee passionately shared, “Our mission is to create a brave atmosphere where athletes can grow with confidence. It’s not just about flipping and jumping on trampolines—it’s about leaving kids with a sense of confidence they never knew they had. That’s the foundation for any sport they pursue. We’ve changed a lot of kids’ lives, and that’s truly something special!” Tune in and hear how these local heroes are building a space where the valley’s youth can not only thrive in athletics but also gain life-changing confidence and skills. For more information about BEBRAVE Athletics visit http://bebraveathletics.com, email [email protected] or call the gym at 702-884-5099. Financial aid for kids to participate in BEBRAVE programs is available through the Kids for Sports program. Contact the gym for information. BEBRAVE is located at: 473 W Mesquite Blvd, Mesquite, NV 89027

Linda and Steve were captivated during their visit to the Art Provides Gallery on Main Street in St. George, Utah, where they had the pleasure of meeting Elizabeth Gunter—artist, graphic designer, curator, and owner of the gallery. What unfolded was an incredibly inspiring conversation about art, creativity, the human experience, and the unique challenges of owning a gallery. Elizabeth’s passion and dedication have made her a vital resource for the Southern Utah arts community. Whether you're looking to attend an art class, enjoy live jazz, experience the magic of art and improv, or simply drop in to feast your eyes on incredible artwork, a visit to Art Provides is a must. You can find this vibrant space at 35 North Main Street, St. George, Utah. Elizabeth's Facebook Page

Once again, we've had the pleasure of meeting another incredible artist through Core Contemporary, thanks to the ever-inspiring Nancy Good, who continues to connect us with a fantastic array of emerging talent. Steve’s introduction to Rachel was quite fittingly over some scrambled eggs—or rather, her playful piece titled Scrambled Eggs featured in the Opps2 exhibition curated by Bailey Anderson. Join us for a lively conversation as we explore Rachel's artistic journey, from her early Tom and Jerry-inspired mousetrap creations to her ventures into cosplay, her admiration for Jack Stauber, musings on AI, and even a nod to the legendary Prince. Sit back, relax, and enjoy! Find Rachels work on Instagram @rhapsody__art Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachel.a.elkins Rachel's Website click here: https://www.rhapsodyart.net/

It’s been over a year since we last caught up with our episode 98 guest, the remarkable Alina Lindquist. While we stay connected with her daily on social media and have visited her exhibitions, we haven’t yet managed to get her back on the podcast. This past year, Alina has been busy immersing herself in art, spending several months at Charles H. Cecil Studios in Italy, and participating in two prestigious art residencies: one at Great Basin National Park and another at the Mystery Ranch in Avi Kwa Ame National Monument. We’re excited to catch up with her in person at her upcoming solo exhibition, Love Letters from Avi Kwa Ame, at ASAP (Art Space Art Projects), running from October 20 to 30, with a special reception on October 26 from 6 to 9 PM. Don’t miss it! You can find Alina's work on her website: https://alinalindquist.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alina.lindquist Instagram: @alina.lindquist ASAP Gallery: https://www.availablespaceartprojects.com/

Suzie is coming to you live from the lively and exciting Mesquite Rotary Club Mud Volleyball tournament! Teams are here battling it out in the mud, but it’s clear that the real win is the fun had by everyone—players, friends, and family cheering from the sidelines. As Deb mentioned earlier, this event serves as the primary fundraiser for the Mesquite Rotary Club. A huge thank you goes out to Eureka Casino for providing the playing fields and to the many dedicated volunteers who prepare the mud pits, set up the nets, check in players, and keep the games running smoothly. Be sure to mark your calendars for next year’s tournament—it’s set to be even bigger and better! We hope you enjoy this energetic episode!

During the dress rehearsal for Mesquite Community Theatre's production of Poe's Midnight Dreary, Suzie caught up with the talented cast to discuss their roles in this captivating play inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe. Featuring some of the finest actors from the Virgin Valley, this ensemble is ready to deliver a haunting and unforgettable evening of theatrical intrigue. It looks to be a sell-out so get your tickets fast by clicking here. or at the Box Office 150 N Yucca St Ste 22, Mesquite, NV 89027 hours are Tuesday and Thursday, 12 PM to 3 PM.

It feels like so many of our wonderful guests come into our orbit through Nancy Good's Core Contemporary Gallery, and Shahab was no exception. We first met him at the opening of the "Use The Other Door" exhibition, and it was clear from the start that this was going to be a fantastic conversation. Just one look at Shahab’s photo, and you can sense the intriguing stories and insights he’d bring to the table. And believe us—it didn’t disappoint! We had such a great time during the interview, and we hope you enjoy listening as much as we did recording it! Think Speak Films - click here. He spoke of Agnès Varda and you can learn more here.

Brenda Slocumb the Executive Director of Friends of Gold Butte dropped by our STEAM Center recording studio to fill us in on activity plans for Fall and Winter 24/25. Gold Butte National Monument, located in southeastern Nevada, is a vast, 300,000-acre area known for its stunning desert landscapes, rugged sandstone formations, and rich cultural history. The monument features dramatic red rock vistas, petroglyphs, and ancient rock art left by the Ancestral Puebloans. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring its unique geological formations like the Whitney Pocket and Little Finland. Wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep and rare desert tortoises, thrive in this protected area, which serves as an important conservation site while preserving its historical and ecological treasures.

Linda and Steve were honored to welcome Nevada Poet Laureate Shaun Griffin to The Art Box. Shaun’s contributions to humanity span so many heartfelt and impactful areas that printed words alone can’t do them justice—you’ll have to listen to the podcast to truly appreciate his gifts. In this inspiring and insightful 45-minute episode, we invite you to pour yourself a glass of good vino, kick up your feet, slip on your headphones, and enjoy this beautiful conversation. Shaun Griffin appointed Nevada State Poet Laureate! Shaun and his wife founded Community Chest Inc. Learn more by clicking here. Shaun in the Nevada Writers Hall of Fame - Learn more by clicking here.

Elko has always been a special place for us—filled with amazing experiences, from savoring great steaks to soaking in the poetry, music, and boundless creativity. One standout moment was meeting the incredibly talented Cynthia Delaney at the Western Folklife Center. Fast forward seven months, and Cynthia walked into our Mesquite Works STEAM Center studio, radiating creativity with every step. We’re thrilled to now call her a neighbor. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this inspiring episode! Visit Cynthia's web site by clicking here.

The Art Box dips into our local talent pool by having STEAM Chat Art Host Soul Green gather together her high school performing arts friends, Cameron and Kurt, for a lively and thought-provoking dive into the world of modern art. For 45 captivating minutes, they explore the complexities, interpretations, and emotional impact of modern artistic movements, while also weaving in humorous and insightful tangents about their favorite movies, cartoons, and other creative interests. Their conversation is a rich blend of nostalgia, expertise, and passion for the arts, making this episode both engaging and relatable to listeners of all backgrounds. This is a STEAM Chat episode that we have encapsulated with Art Box opening and closing segments. You can find STEAM Chat at this link: https://info2ee2.podbean.com/

Suzie White brings you the exciting fall schedule for the Mesquite Community Theatre. Click here for schedule and tickets

As summer winds down, Linda and Steve had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Michelle Graves, a Las Vegas-based artist and the President of the Goldwell Open Air Museum in Rhyolite, Nevada. Michelle seamlessly weaves together science and art in her practice, diving deep into research to create meticulously crafted and profoundly meaningful works of art. Grab a beverage, slip on the headphones and enjoy this deep conversation with Michelle. Learn more about the Goldwell Open Air Museum. View an article on Michelle's art displayed at Goldwell. @gravesmichelle @goldwellmuseum

Linda and Steve had the pleasure of virtually welcoming Captain Nicole Lawrence of Major Marine Tours to our Mesquite Works STEAM Center studio. Nicole shared her expertise on the art of wildlife exploration in Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park, all from her home port in Seward, Alaska. Join us as Nicole recounts her fascinating journey—from sailing the Great Lakes to Caribbean voyages, Hawaii, South Pacific, and ultimately, to guiding awe-struck visitors through the majestic landscapes of the Kenai, where whales, eagles, otters, and glaciers create an unforgettable experience. Curious about what life is like in Seward during the winter? Year-round resident Nicole gives us an inside look at the off-season charm, sharing stories of local art, cozy community gathering spots, steaming coffee, backcountry skiing, and embracing the cold Alaskan weather. If you have interest in Seward real-estate, Nicole can help you at Seward Properties or email.

A few months ago, Steve was on the lookout for a talented artist to paint a mural. Tyler immediately thought of one of his former students, Abigail Ramirez. What started as a simple recommendation quickly turned into something much bigger—Abi became a guest on The Art Box, and wow, were we in for a surprise! Abi’s focus and talent blew us away, and it’s clear she’s on the path to great things. We were thrilled to have Tyler join the conversation, and it was an absolute blast bringing these two creative minds together to talk art, creativity, and the journey of an emerging artist. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration and insight—you won’t want to miss this one! You can follow Abi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iris.tattooz/ Abi is an artist at: Skin Gallery Tattoo, location : 190 E Mesquite Blvd M, Mesquite, NV 89027 SkinGalleryNV.com | Mesquite Nevada's First tattoo Studio

In this special episode of the Art Box Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome a very unique guest—Torin, the charming and enigmatic pottery creation who has become a beloved fixture in our creative adventures. Torin may have started as a simple piece of clay, but his journey from the Juniper Outpost in Mesquite to becoming a key part of our artistic community is nothing short of magical. Today, Torin will be sharing his thoughts on art, creativity, and the inspiration he draws from the world around him, all delivered with the quirky humor and wisdom that only a pottery piece with a soul could possess. Get ready for a conversation that’s as enlightening as it is entertaining, as we dive into the mind of our most unexpected muse. Join us as we explore the world through Torin’s eyes—or rather, through his bright, expressive eyes and his sharp, insightful perspective. We’ll talk about his recent artistic endeavors, his thoughts on the power of shadows in art, and how he’s found his creative voice in such a short time. Whether you’re a long-time listener of the Art Box Podcast or tuning in for the first time, this episode is sure to leave you inspired and smiling. So, settle in, and let’s see what Torin has in store for us on this whimsical and thought-provoking journey into the heart of creativity.

For an internal project, we put together a 10-minute compilation of highlights from some of our incredible guests. If you’ve never tuned in before, this is the perfect introduction to our podcast—it’s sure to inspire you to check out our full episodes. Our creative guests share amazing stories about their artistic journeys, stories that are too rich to be fully captured in just 600 seconds. Tune in and discover why we’re so passionate about celebrating creativity.

One of our Valley's beloved entertainers, DJ Van Dyke, is gearing up for another sellout performance at the Mesquite Theatre. This time, she's bringing her talented friend Shelvis to the stage for an electrifying show on September 14. Join us as Suzie White hosts a lively conversation with DJ, and who knows—Shelvis might just make a surprise appearance! Get your tickets by clicking here.

Steve was thrilled when our good friend Jr. Baeza walked into our Mesquite Works STEAM Center recording studio the other day. Jr. was there to chat about the exciting new bakery he and his wonderful wife Sabra are opening right here in Mesquite. Conversations with Jr. always flow effortlessly, and we found ourselves diving into discussions about, bread, soup, pies, stacked sandwiches, and the other incredible small businesses that make our town special. So, sit back and get the inside scoop on Mesquite's newest gem, Fat Dough, located at 12 W #114 Mesquite Blvd.

Not to brag but I feel this is one of the most consequential podcasts you will listen to this year. Please take forty-five minutes to learn about the good work Clovernook does to impact disabilities worldwide. Our guest Samuel Foulkes works at Clovernook Center for the Blind as the Director of Braille Production & Accessible Innovation. Clovernook is located in Cincinnati OH, and is the largest producer of braille in the world (30 million pages printed and distributed each year). Most of their production work is federal, producing books and magazines for the Library of Congress in alternate formats. Much of his work is at the intersection of art & disability – Samuel is the founder of Clovernook’s Arts & Accessibility Initiative, which provides free accessible material and consulting to cultural institutions all around the US – from large institutions like The Met & Carnegie Hall, to individual artists and small local organizations. This kind of work includes the provision of braille, audio, audio description, tactile graphics, 3D design/scanning/printing, and much more! All of our solutions are inclusively designed – most of our Arts team are blind or low vision. The picture Samuel provided is symbolic of the importance of 3D printing to their mission and is a 3D replica of Samuel's head. Click here to find out more about Clovernook. If you would like to donate click here.

Suzie welcomes Mesquite, Nevada Fire Chief Jayson Andrus and Maryanne Mainero to the Mesquite Works STEAM Center broadcast studio to talk about their fundraiser for the "Never Forgotten" statue at the new Fire station #1. Mesquite Fire Rescue is thrilled to launch the "Bricks for the Brave" Fundraiser to place the "Never Forgotten" statue in front of our new fire station. This statue will serve as a lasting tribute to the bravery and dedication of our firefighters. Your support will make this vision a reality. Every donation counts! Link to order your brick https://www.fundraisingbrick.com/online-orders/mfr/

Last month, your Art Box hosts attended a delightful variety show in Mesquite, where they were thoroughly entertained by John Tomasello and his LV Puppets troupe. Inspired by their performance, Suzie decided an interview was a must. She headed to Vegas and recorded this fantastic episode. Enjoy! Find out more about then by clicking here. or email John: [email protected]

Floyd Johnson continues with his "Best in Show" Art Box series as he sits down with Shirley Smith to talk about her award winning entry in the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery "Shadow and Light" exhibition. Kick back and enjoy.

The Art Box is thrilled to welcome Michelle Lopez and Kaesee Bourne from the Nevada Department of Wildlife to our podcast. With diverse educational backgrounds in biology, STEM education, environmental studies, ecology, evolutionary studies, psychology, and neuroscience, they bring a unique perspective on protecting Nevada's wildlife. So, put on your headphones, grab a water bottle, and enjoy this informative and entertaining episode! Thank you Michelle and Kaesee for all you do.

We are incredibly proud to welcome Loïs Levy to The Art Box, our first international guest and the talented creator of our much-celebrated opening and closing music. Loïs graciously navigated the time difference between Munich, Germany, and Mesquite, Nevada, joining our Zoom call after getting his daughter to bed at 9 PM his time, which was noon for us. Loïs, a French producer born in 1985, has been creating music for the past two decades. Originally from France, he now calls Munich, Germany home. Renowned for his commitment to crafting diverse and unique-sounding music, Loïs seamlessly transitions between genres, from alternative rock to experimental electronica, EDM, and pop. His collaborations with fellow artists have been instrumental in shaping the sonic identity of each project, adding depth and dimension to every composition while also providing valuable learning experiences. In his latest venture, the “Kit Pristine” project, Loïs channels his energy into the realm of pop music. His goal is to curate a platform for inspiring indie vocalists, melding their voices with his musical creations to produce fresh, innovative sounds. You can find the Kit Pristine Project by clicking here.

After months of planning, the Virgin Valley Artists' Association is excited to announce their move into the new Pottery Studio adjacent to the Mesquite Fine Art Center at 15 West Mesquite Blvd, in Mesquite, Nevada. Kathleen Birkholz, Diane Alexanian, and Tammy Weese, the dynamic trio leading the Potters move tribe, joined us at the Mesquite Works STEAM Center Art Box studio. They shared updates on the move, exciting new programs they'll offer, challenges they're facing, and, of course, plenty of laughs as they expressed their passion for pottery. After hosting this short episode, I’m ready to get my hands dirty and engage in some mud-slinging this fall. Join me. Click here for the Virgin Valley Pottery Facebook Group Page Virgin Valley Artists Association Web Page

Morrigan Devito is a dedicated environmental advocate and passionate educator with the Red Rock Audubon Society in Las Vegas. With a background in wildlife biology and conservation, Morrigan has devoted her career to studying and protecting avian species in the Nevada desert. Her work involves leading birdwatching tours, conducting ecological research, and organizing community outreach programs to promote awareness of local bird habitats. In addition to her scientific endeavors, Morrigan is an accomplished artist and nature journaler, capturing the beauty of the natural world through her detailed illustrations and writings. Known for her enthusiasm and expertise, Morrigan inspires others to appreciate and preserve the natural beauty of the region’s birdlife.

WOW’ser, this is an incredible episode! Our friend and occasional host, Tyler Roylance, sat down with Kim Erickson for a wide-ranging chat about creativity, art, and life. This is a must-listen. Enjoy! You can find Kim teaching pottery at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center Pottery Studio at 15 W. Mesquite Blvd. For MFAC Pottery Studio Hours Click Here For MFAC Pottery Classes Click Here

We were fortunate to connect with Monica Aissa Martinez through our friend Jen Urso (Episode 102), and we finally managed to align our busy schedules for a fascinating conversation about how she blends science and art in her practice. Our discussion covers a range of intriguing topics, including the creation of egg tempera and casein paint, the intricacies of wandering nerves, the unexpected beauty of viruses, and her experiences navigating through COVID. So, slip on your headset, pour yourself a good glass of wine, and enjoy this enlightening conversation. Learn more about Monica by clicking here. Monica's Blog click here

Welcome to The Art Box! Today, we are thrilled to introduce our listeners to the esteemed Dr. Joyce Hunt Brown, a distinguished resident of Mesquite and a Certified Crisis Chaplain. Dr. Joyce joined our host, Tyler Roylance, in the Mesquite Works STEAM Center recording studio for an inspiring conversation about her lifelong dedication to serving others and educating them on self-care. Our discussions covered a range of topics, from the benefits of sleep learning to achieving your ideal self through empowering insights. Tune in for an episode filled with heartfelt wisdom and transformative ideas. Learn more with the information below. Suicide Prevention and Grief Relief 800-734-3439 How to have an awesome day Saturdays 1:30 PM Pacific Time call: 657-390-4797