Art Beat - WUCF

Dulcimer innovator and ambassador Bing Futch finds himself on a surprising creative path. Signs point to “Yes” as this musician follows his bliss.

Artist Kelledy Francis spent years studying sculpting, but in college she stumbled upon a neighboring art department that prompted the artist to leave the Maryland Institute College of Art for an Orlando votech - for training that would dramatically change her life.

“Rat Race: The Secret Life of ThemePark” is a one-man play based on interviews with 60 theme park employees and guests. Funny, animated and sincere, actor/playwright Eric Paul Jakobsen offers insight into the shaping of the production itself and into the lives of the people he came to know. Imaginary hand puppets included!

Suburban Primitive painter Carl Knickerbocker resides in the Sunshine State, but it isn't his zip code that makes him a Florida artist – it's because of what he sees happening to the region and what he's got to say about it.

For eleven years multi-media producer Dave Segal's program, Bootleg TV, has helped document Orlando's local arts scene. Tough times brought him low but instead of giving up this artist raised his spirit by raising his expectations.

"The Evangelist, The Hit Man and The ACLU" - a documentary film about televangelist turned convicted felon, George Crossley, Jr. Listen in to hear how filmmaker TJ McCarthy IV had to put preconceptions aside in order to make the film that needed to be made.

"Hiding in the Spotlight” is the remarkable true story of a young Jewish piano prodigy whose musical gifts saved her life during the Holocaust. Listen in to hear author Greg Dawson explain why this book took 30 years to come to fruition; one reason stemmed from his mother's initial reluctance to share her story.

For visual artist John Whipple the finished product comes in second when place against this artist's fascination in getting from points A to Z. At once an arts educator and a creative nonconformist, he knows the rules, just as clearly as he knows he won't be following them.

Mixed-Media artist Lynn Whipple finds beauty in the lost and forgotten and gives new life to vintage curiosities. Though highly regarded throughout the nation, this artist is not content to rest on past accolades – and loves learning and continuing to explore her craft. Listen in to hear about Lynn's childhood and some surprising revelations her work has uncovered.

Singer, Poet, Mystic – it's beyond difficult trying to sum up Holly Riggs, but it's highly enjoyable trying. Hear how this vibrant and engaging artist is finding her true center.