Toast to The Arts & Parks

Big Blend Radio Network
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Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday ”Toast to The Arts & Parks” Show features interviews and panel discussions with National Parks Arts Foundation artists-in-residence, along with other artists connected with parks, which include artists in the world of visual and performing arts, books and poetry, music, and more.

  1. 3 OCT

    Queen Esther on Gettysburg, Resilience, and Her Album Blackbirding

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month with Queen Esther, who completed a National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artist residency at Gettysburg National Military Park in 2020. Queen Esther reflects on her artistic journey, the emotional impact of her Gettysburg residency, and the themes of her upcoming album Blackbirding. The conversation delves into the historical significance of Gettysburg, the concept of blackbirding, and the power of art in preserving and conveying history. She emphasizes the resilience of the Black community and the importance of understanding the past to navigate the present and future. The discussion also touches on the role of women in history and politics, spirituality in music, and the significance of artistic expression during challenging times. 🎵 The first single Hold Steady is available here: https://ffm.to/holdsteady  🎵 Pre-save or order the full album Blackbirding here: https://ffm.to/qeblackbirding  🌐 Learn more about Queen Esther: https://www.queen-esther.com  🌐 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org

    1h 16m

  2. 6 SEPT

    Tijuana Ricks and Anthony Pirro: Artists-in-Residence in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Arts & Parks” Show features Tijuana Ricks and Anthony Pirro, who recently completed a National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artist-in-residence program at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Known for her roles in Billions and Marvel’s Luke Cage, Tijuana is an acclaimed actress, writer, and director. Her partner, Anthony, brings a unique perspective as an education leader, genomics researcher, along with a background in creative production. More: https://www.tijuanaricks.com/  In this insightful conversation, Tijuana and Anthony share their experiences and insights from their time on the Big Island. They discuss the vital role of storytelling, the profound connection between humanity and nature, and how their immersive experience in Hawaiian culture inspired their creative process. The episode also explores the evolving landscape of the arts in the face of new challenges, emphasizing that authenticity and the human experience are more vital than ever. 🌐 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org  This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" and "Parks & Travel" Podcast Channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    46 min

  3. 22 AUG

    Photographer William Bretzger in Gettysburg

    In honor of American Artists Appreciation Month, Big Blend Radio revisits an archived interview with photographer William Bretzger, originally featured in 2017 as part of our ongoing coverage of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) and its unique artist-in-residence programs. Bretzger shares insights from his time at Gettysburg National Military Park, where he has been photographing for over 20 years. In this inspiring conversation, he reflects on the immersive nature of his residency, the historical significance of Gettysburg, and his creative use of projections to blend historical figures with the present-day landscape. He also discusses balancing traditional film with modern digital photography, the role of light in storytelling, and how residencies foster artistic growth, experimentation, and a deeper connection to history. From capturing dawn and dusk’s atmosphere to exploring how artistic intentions evolve during the residency, Bretzger offers a fascinating look into the power of art in the national parks and the lasting impact of the program on his creative journey. Follow William Bretzger on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gettysburgcamera  Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/

    37 min

  4. 1 AUG

    The Living Canvas: Art, Parks, and the Unfolding Human Story

    Join us for a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Parks & Arts" as we celebrate American Adventures Month and American Artists Appreciation Month. We're joined by acclaimed photographer and visionary, Tanya Ortega, founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). Tanya shares her passion for the deep connections between artists and national parks, highlighting how NPAF's unique artist-in-residence programs are crucial for interpreting and sharing the cultural and historical significance of these treasured landscapes. We explore how artists act as storytellers, unearthing the human history intertwined with nature, and creating art that connects us to our heritage and to each other.  From personal stories and ancestral connections to the importance of preserving history through archives and libraries, this conversation covers the challenges and resilience of artists working in these natural spaces. We also touch on how technology is shaping the future of art and why honoring the human legacy within our parks is more vital than ever. It's a deep dive into the powerful role of art in keeping our shared human story alive within America's most beautiful places. Learn More about NPAF: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/  Resources Mentioned: - Tour NY Public Library’s Famed Schwarzman Building: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/tour-ny-public-librarys-famed-schwarzman-building/  - Latest NPAF Artist-in-Residence Interviews: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing-category/national-parks-arts/  - NPAF Archive of Artist Interviews & Features in Big Blend Magazines: https://fliphtml5.com/bookcase/xamdz/  Listen & Follow: - Toast to The Parks & Arts Podcast: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/   - Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    47 min

  5. 3 JULY

    Rachel Mari Kimber’s Desert Soundscape: Birds Follow Dry Riverbed

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast features a follow-up conversation with musician and composer Rachel Mari Kimber, the National Parks Arts Foundation’s Fall 2024 Artist-in-Residence at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona. Rachel discusses her new single, “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed,” a soulful piece inspired by the desert landscapes and experiences during her residency. She shares insights into her creative process, the emotional and healing power of music, and how nature—especially the desert—continues to shape her artistry. The conversation explores themes of harmony, community, and the personal connections music evokes. Rachel also opens up about upcoming projects including an ambient album and a sound healing release, and talks about her work with Black Forest Society and Happy Joy Harmony. 🎵 “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed” is available on all major music platforms including Spotify, Amazon, YouTube, and CD Baby. 🎧 Listen to earlier parts of Rachel’s residency journey: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/musician-rachel-mari-kimber-in-saguaro-national-park/  🌐 More about Rachel Mari Kimber: https://rachelmarikimber.com  🎨 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org

    28 min

  6. 6 JUNE

    The Artistic Connection to National Parks

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show celebrates Great Outdoors Month with Tanya Ortega, acclaimed photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). NPAF leads the way in establishing unique, month-long artist-in-residence programs in national parks across the country. In this inspiring conversation, Tanya shares how art acts as a catalyst for change and preservation, and how artists help deepen the cultural and emotional value of our public lands. The discussion touches on the legacy of art in parks, community engagement, accessibility, and the importance of integrating creativity into conservation efforts to ensure these natural treasures are cherished by future generations. 🔗 Learn more and apply: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/  🎧 Listen & follow the show: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/  📚 Coming soon: Big Blend Radio’s NPAF Retrospective Digital Publication, celebrating 8+ years of creative collaborations in national parks. This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio Network’s "Toast to The Arts," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Shows. 📲 Subscribe: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    53 min

  7. 3 MAY

    Artist Residency Programs in Hawai'i National Parks

    Join this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show, featuring Tanya Ortega, acclaimed photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). In honor of Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Tanya shares inspiring stories and insights about NPAF’s exclusive month-long artist residency programs at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island and Haleakalā National Park on Maui. These fully supported residencies are open to artists of all disciplines — including painters, photographers, sculptors, filmmakers, composers, musicians, writers, and more — offering a unique opportunity to live and create while surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Hawaii’s national parks. 🔗 Learn more and apply: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/  🎧 Listen & follow the show: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/   📚 Coming soon: Big Blend Radio’s NPAF Retrospective Digital Publication, celebrating 8+ years of creative collaborations in national parks. This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio Network’s "Toast to The Arts," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Shows. 📲 Subscribe: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    59 min

  8. 23 APR

    Mother-Daughter Artist-in-Residence Duo in Dry Tortugas National Park

    In celebration of National Parks Week, we're revisiting this Big Blend Radio interview with landscape artist and soft pastelist Beth Williams, and her daughter, Hailey Williams who is a writer and poet. The very first pair of mother and daughter artists chosen for the National Parks Arts Foundation's artist-in-residence program, they spent September 2019 immersed in their artistic and environmental endeavors, on a pristine, isolated island at Dry Tortugas National Park in the Florida Keys. Beth is an award-winning artist and Signature Member of the Pastel Society of America. Hailey is a Scholastic award-winning poet, nonfiction, and fiction writer, as well as a self-published screenwriter.  Check out their Parks & Travel Magazine feature (2020) here: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/fotl/#p=68  Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation, here: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/

    50 min
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About

Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday ”Toast to The Arts & Parks” Show features interviews and panel discussions with National Parks Arts Foundation artists-in-residence, along with other artists connected with parks, which include artists in the world of visual and performing arts, books and poetry, music, and more.

Information

  • Creator
    Big Blend Radio Network
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Big Blend Radio and Magazines
  • Show Website
    Toast to The Arts & Parks