Beyond the Art

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BEYOND THE ART is hosted by Cray Bauxmont-Flynn who strives to highlight a diversity of roles and voices across the Native American art world, from artists to museum directors and everyone in between.

  1. FEB 26

    Ink and Identity: Dr. Lars Krutak on Indigenous Tattooing as Cultural Survival

    In this powerful episode of Beyond the Arts, we sit down with Dr. Lars Krutak, known globally as "the tattoo anthropologist," to explore the profound world of indigenous tattooing traditions. For nearly 30 years, Lars has traveled to over 50 countries, working with 50-60 indigenous communities to document tattooing practices that are rapidly disappearing. His journey began in 1996 in Alaska, where he encountered a Gwich'in elder with traditional chin tattoos, sparking a lifelong mission to preserve these visual narratives before they vanish forever. Lars shares incredible stories from his fieldwork, from the St. Lawrence Island Yupik elders who taught him that tattoos are "life stories on skin" to the medicinal tattoos in Borneo that mirror techniques used by the 5,000-year-old Iceman. He discusses the devastating impact of colonization and boarding schools on tattooing traditions, and how contemporary indigenous communities are reclaiming these practices as acts of healing and cultural resurgence. Lars emphasizes the ethical dimensions of his work, always prioritizing community consent, giving back resources, and centering indigenous voices in his publications. This conversation goes far beyond aesthetics to reveal how tattoos function as medicine, cosmology, historical records, and declarations of indigenous identity. Lars's latest book, Indigenous Tattoo Traditions, published by Princeton University Press in 2025, represents decades of collaboration with tattooed elders and their communities. Whether you're interested in anthropology, indigenous cultures, art history, or the healing power of cultural reclamation, this episode offers profound insights into traditions that deserve recognition as vital contributions to human heritage.

    51 min

  2. FEB 12

    Indigenous Creativity: Eric-Paul Riege's Sanctuary of Art

    In this episode, we sit down with Eric-Paul Riege, who takes us on a journey through his artistic legacy rooted in a lineage of weavers and fiber artists. Eric shares how these early memories of craft have shaped his creative process, often interweaving elements of story, ceremony, and space. Through his work, Eric explores the relationship between memory and material, creating totems that capture and preserve ancestral narratives. Eric discusses the transformative experiences that have defined his path as an artist. He reflects on his family's influence and how his upbringing within a community of makers has deepened his connection to the materials he uses. This connection manifests in his work as he blends traditional practices with contemporary art forms, offering a rich tapestry of cultural continuity and innovation. As Eric shares his journey, listeners gain insight into the delicate balance he maintains between honoring his heritage and pushing artistic boundaries. His reflections offer a powerful reminder of the role memory plays in art and life, with his creations acting as living embodiments of history, tradition, and dreams.

    45 min

  3. JAN 29

    Wild Clay Awakening: Where the Land Shapes the Hand with Robert King

    Robert King, a former physician turned ceramic artist, shares his unromantic entry into pottery—inspired by an online video, he quickly acquired a wheel and kiln, firing imperfect pots while building skills rooted in his Choctaw basket-weaving heritage, where traditional pots were lost to displacement. Relocating to a stark, windy landscape, King forges a deep bond with the land, sourcing wild clays from arroyos and treating materials as living collaborators with their own strengths and limits, emphasizing patience, play, and minimal intervention to let the earth speak. Balancing ancestral traditions with contemporary life, he revives nearly lost Choctaw clay practices through authentic, modern vessels that challenge perceptions of beauty—pairing gnarly surfaces with elegant forms—while rejecting stereotypes to affirm indigenous presence today.

    35 min

  4. JAN 15

    Redefining Identity: Erik Brodt on Indigenous Fashion

    In this episode of "Beyond the Art," we delve into the inspiring journey of Erik Brodt, co-founder of Ginew, a Native American brand that redefines indigenous identity through fashion. Erik shares how Ginew was born from a desire to create clothing that tells authentic stories, reflecting the values and heritage of Native American culture. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a brand that not only celebrates tradition but also pushes the boundaries of contemporary fashion. Erik emphasizes the importance of storytelling in both fashion and medicine, drawing parallels between the two fields. He highlights how Ginew serves as a platform for Native American artisans, providing them with opportunities to showcase their work and sustain their livelihoods. This conversation invites listeners to see fashion as a powerful medium for cultural expression and community building.

    1h 8m

  5. 12/11/2025

    Food as Medicine: A Conversation with Pyet de Spain

    In this captivating episode of Beyond the Art Podcast, host Joe sits down with Pyet, a dynamic chef known for her innovative fusion of Native American and Mexican cuisines. Pyet takes listeners on a journey through her rich culinary heritage, beginning with her family's taquerias and leading to her current roles as an executive producer and actress. Her story is one of resilience and creativity, as she shares how her multicultural upbringing has shaped her unique approach to food and storytelling. Pyet delves into the philosophy of food as medicine, emphasizing the deep connections between culinary traditions and cultural identity. She discusses her experiences on national television, including her transformative win on 'Next Level Chef,' and how these platforms have allowed her to advocate for greater representation in media. Her book, "Rooted in Fire," serves as a testament to her commitment to food sovereignty and the power of storytelling through cuisine. Throughout the conversation, Pyet highlights the importance of community and mentorship in her journey. She credits influential figures like Sean Sherman and Claudia Cerrado for inspiring her path and underscores the significance of defining success through community impact rather than material wealth. This episode is a rich tapestry of cultural insights, personal anecdotes, and a celebration of culinary diversity.

    1h 1m

  6. 11/28/2025

    Crafting Stories Through Beads with Kaleb Lee

    Diné artist Kaleb Lee takes us on a journey through the vibrant and intricate world of beadwork, a passion ignited in his youth and nurtured by family influences. Kaleb's story unfolds with a road trip to a powwow in Washington, where the colorful tapestry of beads and storytelling captured his imagination. Through cultural exchanges with tribes like the Cree, Kaleb's artistry has blossomed, weaving together rich narratives and traditions into each bead. His works are not just art; they are stories waiting to be told, each piece a testament to his roots and the lessons learned from others. As Kaleb navigates the balance between cultural heritage and contemporary influences, he draws inspiration from both ancestral resilience and the whimsy of modern media like Disney and Pixar. His beadwork reflects a unique tapestry of influences, celebrating cultural representation while resonating with personal significance. Kaleb discusses how his pieces inspired by popular culture have been received by family and friends, highlighting the importance of maintaining authenticity while embracing broader artistic horizons. His journey underscores the delicate act of honoring one's heritage while exploring new creative avenues. Throughout our conversation, Kaleb shares insights into his personal growth and creative process. From the influence of artists like Jamie Okuma to the role of music, particularly metal, in focusing his artistic vision, Kaleb's story is one of continuous evolution. He opens up about his transition from extroversion to introversion, managing criticism with grace, and the significance of respect in artistic exchanges. Aspiring beadwork artists will find a treasure trove of advice here, as Kaleb emphasizes the power of maintaining integrity and creativity amidst challenges, with dreams of showcasing his art on some of the world's grandest stages.

    39 min

  7. 11/13/2025

    Crafting Identity through Art with Michel Dumont

    Join us on Beyond the Arts as we welcome the incredibly talented Michel Dumont, a queer Métis, two-spirited artist from Thunder Bay, Ontario. Michel captivates us with stories of turning discarded materials into stunning works of art, inspired by the terrazzo floors of the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital. From vintage tiles to wearable art crafted from packing tape, cellophane, and LED lights, Michel's creations breathe new life into what others might consider waste. Discover how her childhood fascination with cellophane pastry box windows sparked a lifelong journey of artistic exploration and innovation. Listen in as we explore Michel's powerful narrative of generational trauma and artistry. Michel shares her experiences of navigating her mixed heritage and the challenges of expressing her true self in the art world. Through personal stories of learning Ojibwe and reflecting on her mother's experiences in the Indian Day School system, Michel illustrates the profound impact of historical archives and community support on her journey of reconciliation and healing. The conversation highlights how art connects and heals across generations, fostering a deeper understanding of identity and heritage. Finally, we explore the evolution of Indigenous queer identities and the transformative power of artistic collaboration. Inspired by renowned Ojibwe artist Rebecca Belmore, Michel uses her work to confront painful pasts and celebrate queer joy and representation. Through her engagement with diverse communities and exploration of unconventional materials, Michel emphasizes the importance of storytelling and community building in art. With a focus on future projects and the unpredictable nature of the art world, this episode showcases Michel's commitment to using art as a medium for social change and cultural expression.

    56 min

  8. 10/30/2025

    Transforming Indigenous Art: The Impact of the Indigenous Curatorial Collective

    Join us for a compelling exploration of the Indigenous Curatorial Collective (ICC) with our guests Justine Stilborn and Eli Hirtle. We examine how this organization, founded in 2005, has become a vital network for Indigenous artists and curators across Canada and beyond. Eli shares his personal journey from feeling isolated in the curatorial world to finding a supportive community through the ICC. Meanwhile, Justine reflects on her path back to the arts and her efforts to spotlight the organization's rich history through digital platforms. Together, they discuss how the ICC amplifies Indigenous voices, particularly through its digital publications project, ensuring the continued growth and visibility of Indigenous art and culture. In our conversation, we also highlight the crucial role of mentorship and community for Indigenous artists and curators. We discuss the challenges faced by Indigenous artists in rural areas, including limited access to mentorship and visibility, contrasted with the natural mentorship found within close-knit communities. Our guests share their experiences with mentorship programs like the youth mentorship art program and the curatorial delegations program, while also addressing the challenges of securing sustainable funding in the arts. Listen in as we underscore the importance of sustaining progress made in cultural representation and support within the art world. Finally, we explore the broader landscape of Indigenous art, from funding challenges to the influence of artists like Christy Belcourt and Sky Hopinka. We discuss how Indigenous artists are transforming perceptions of craft into high art and redefining storytelling through innovative mediums. Justine and Eli share their personal projects and aspirations, including a puppet film project and community engagement initiatives. The episode concludes with a discussion on the significance of institutional memberships in supporting Indigenous arts organizations, emphasizing the role of art in preservation, connection, and renewal.

    46 min
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About

BEYOND THE ART is hosted by Cray Bauxmont-Flynn who strives to highlight a diversity of roles and voices across the Native American art world, from artists to museum directors and everyone in between.

Information

  • Channel
    KOSU
  • Creator
    KOSU
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    93
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 KOSU Radio
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Art

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