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Lisa Stephen

Susan Martin

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan, Executive Director of the Bower Center for the Arts, sits down with Susan, the podcast's original creator and current Director of Development and Marketing. Susan shares her journey from West Virginia to Bedford, Virginia, her career path through…

Susan Bradbury

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan interviews Susan, an award-winning fine artist and studio painter at the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford, Virginia. Susan shares her artistic journey, from childhood influences by her artist mother to pursuing graphic design at Radford University,…

Ann DeLong

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan speaks with Ann, Vice President of the Bower Center for the Arts Board of Directors. Ann shares her journey from growing up near Boston to settling in Bedford, Virginia, after a distinguished career as a U.S. Foreign Service management officer across…

Akeylah Simone

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan interviews Virginia-based singer-songwriter Akeylah Simone ahead of her free concert at the Bower Center for the Arts on June 13th. Akeylah shares her lifelong connection to music, rooted in a family of musicians, and describes her genre-fluid style…

Beverly Schideler

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan welcomes Beverly, a local artist and new instructor at the Bower Center for the Arts in Bedford, Virginia. Beverly shares her artistic journey spanning 45 years, from childhood inspiration by Michelangelo and Rodin through sculpture, clay, assemblage,…

Jefferson Forest High School

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan speaks with Jefferson Forest High School art teacher Jennifer Tomkins and student artists Mayah and Sam about the Bedford County Public School High School Art Show. Mayah shares how anime inspired her artistic journey, while Sam discusses expressing…

Programs and Community Relations Manager: Anna M. Filiaggi

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with Anna, the Bower Center’s new Programs and Community Relations Manager. She talks about her background as a fine arts graduate, with a focus on painting, drawing, papermaking, and stained glass, as well as her experience teaching art to…

Chris Magee

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan interviews Chris, music director of the Big Band of the Blue Ridge. Chris shares his musical journey, the band’s evolution, and its connection to the Bower Center For The Arts. They discuss the band’s diverse repertoire, the importance of live music,…

Linda Hollett-Bazouzi

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan honors the late Sarah, the Bower Center’s founding executive director. He welcomes Linda, an accomplished artist and judge for the 12th Annual Currie Bower Exhibition, to discuss her artistic journey, judging process, and impressions of the exhibit.…

Staunton River High School

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren speaks with Staunton River High School senior Isabel and art teachers Emily and Bobby about the transformative role of art in education. They discuss how art fosters self-expression, resilience, and creative problem-solving for both students and…

Paddy Dougherty

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood interviews Patty Daughtry, a beloved local singer-songwriter and storyteller. Patty shares her musical journey, from growing up in a musical family to her deep ties with the Bower Center for the Arts. She discusses her songwriting process, the…