Join us as we sit down with this week’s guests, JB Berkow and Grace Chepneik, two powerhouse artists from the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts in Lake Worth, Florida. JB is a renowned painter, sculptor, and the visionary founder of the Center, while Grace is a rising star in the world of hot glass and serves as the Center’s Hot Shop Manager.

Together, we explore their creative journeys, the mission behind the Benzaiten Center, and how this historic train station-turned-art-hub is attracting artists and visitors from around the globe. From molten glass to bold bronze sculptures, this episode dives deep into the power of perseverance, creative evolution, and building a collaborative artistic community.

Join us as we discuss:

- JB’s journey from oil painting to glass casting—and why she created Benzaiten.

- Grace’s unexpected shift from painting to glass—and how the “glass bug” caught her.

- The international artists that Benzaiten brings in, and the global techniques shared.

- The physical and emotional demands of glassblowing—and the art of happy accidents.

- How the Center serves as both a fabrication hub for professional artists and a hands-on education space for the community.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Follow the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County​ on social:

Instagram: @palmbeachculture

Facebook: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

Connect with JB Berkow:

Instagram: @jbberkow

Website: www.benzaitencenter.org

Connect with Grace Chepenik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracechepenikart/?hl=en

Website: https://www.gracechepenik.com

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County​

#GlassArt #BenzaitenCenter #PalmBeachArtists #WomenInArt #HotShopMagic #ArtEducation #SculptureAndGlass #CreativeCommunity

Join us as we sit down with this week's guest, Matt Stabile, Artistic Director of Theatre Lab at Florida Atlantic University — a professional company dedicated exclusively to new plays. Matt is a director, writer, educator, and passionate advocate for the power of storytelling. In this episode, Matt shares how a career shaped by curiosity, community, and creativity has led to a decade of producing bold, original work in South Florida.

We explore Theatre Lab’s commitment to new play development, innovative community programming like the Future PAGES Project and Fair Play Initiative, and the upcoming Owl New Play Festival, a three-week immersive theatrical experience you won’t want to miss.

Join us as we discuss:

- The evolution of Theatre Lab and its mission to produce new plays.

- Matt’s personal artistic journey from actor to full-time director.

- The role of risk, empathy, and imagination in the creative process.

- Community-building through education programs and LGBTQ+ play commissions.

- A behind-the-scenes look at the first-ever Happiness Gym.

- Advice for aspiring creatives navigating theater careers.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Follow the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County​ on social:

Instagram: @palmbeachculture

Facebook: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

Connect with Matt Stabile and Theatre Lab:

Matt's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stabillions?igsh=bms4ZDc5cWJ6eTV1

Theatre Lab's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theatrelab_fau?igsh=MTJkZ21nMW92OWYydQ==:

Website: https://www.fau.edu/artsandletters/theatrelab/owlnewplayfestival/

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County​

#NewPlays #PalmBeachCulture #TheatreLabFAU #ArtsEducation #OwlNewPlayFestival #LiveTheatre #ArtigrasPodcast #CreativeCommunity #ImaginationInTheArts

Join us as we sit down with this week's guest, Sandra Raffaelli, a creative philanthropist, artist, and social entrepreneur dedicated to empowering adults with developmental disabilities through fashion and design. As the Founder and CEO of aZul - Fashion, Art & Design, Inc., Sandra shares her inspiring journey from working in special education to establishing a nonprofit that merges art with social impact.​

Together, we explore the vibrant art scene in Palm Beach County, Sandra’s passion for sustainable fashion, and her commitment to fostering independence and self-expression among individuals with unique abilities. Learn about her innovative programs, her approach to creative empowerment, and the transformative stories that have emerged from her work.

Join us as we discuss:

- Sandra’s transition from finance to special education and the founding of aZul.​

- The mission and impact of aZul's programs, including "Follow the Thread" and "ActiveArt Lunch."​

- The role of sustainable fashion in promoting inclusivity and environmental responsibility.​

- Collaborations with local organizations to create opportunities for adults with disabilities.​

- Advice for aspiring social entrepreneurs looking to make a difference through art and design.​

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Follow the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County​ on social:

Instagram: @palmbeachculture

Facebook: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

Connect with Sandra Raffaelli:

Instagram: @azulfashionartdesign

Facebook: Azul - Fashion, Art & Design, Inc.

Website: https://www.azulfashionartdesign.org

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County​

#SustainableFashion #InclusiveDesign #PalmBeachCulture #SocialEntrepreneurship

In this captivating episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, we sit down with renowned painter Kyle Lucks to explore his journey as an artist, his unique blend of realism and expressionism, and the exciting projects he's currently working on. Kyle’s story, from receiving his first art commission at age 10 to painting legendary athletes and cultural icons, is nothing short of inspiring.

As a celebrated sports artist, Kyle shares his experiences painting figures like Jack Nicklaus, his passion for storytelling through visual arts, and his recent collaborations with the Historical Society of Palm Beach County and the USPA Shop at the National Polo Center. He also discusses his innovative techniques, including his signature spot varnish method that reveals hidden details in his paintings.

Join us as we discuss:

- The early influences that shaped Kyle’s artistic journey.

- The power of light and composition in portraiture.

- Behind-the-scenes stories of painting sports legends and cultural icons.

- How his work bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary art.

- His vision for an immersive art experience in Palm Beach County.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County, visit our sponsor’s website! www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉 Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Follow the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County on social media:

Instagram: @palmbeachculture

Facebook: @palmbeachculture

Website: www.palmbeachculture.com

Follow Kyle Luck on social media:

Instagram: @kylelucksfineart

Website: www.kylelucks.com

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

#SportsArt #PalmBeachArts #PortraitPainting #ArtiGrasPodcast #KyleLux #CulturalHeritage

Join us as we sit down with our host, Sarah LaPierre, and this week's guest, Craig McInnis, a muralist, illustrator, musician, and creative director with a passion for bringing bold ideas to life. Known for his work in fine art, public murals, and even haunted house design, Craig shares his journey through the creative world and his deep involvement in the Palm Beach County arts scene.

Together, we explore Craig’s experience managing The Peach art collective, his approach to blending humor and controversy in his work, and how he mentors emerging artists. Learn about his latest series, Passion Language, his love for large-scale public art, and the unexpected turns his career has taken.

Join us as we discuss:

- Craig’s evolution as an artist and the influences that shaped his work.

- His role at The Peach and how it has grown into a creative hub.

- The challenges and rewards of designing haunted houses for over 20 years.

- The inspiration behind his Passion Language series and its hidden messages.

- Advice for emerging artists looking to build a career in the arts.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Connect with Craig McInnis: Website: https://www.craigmcinnis.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigmcinnisstudios/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Craigartist/

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

#PublicArt #Muralist #PalmBeachArts #EmergingArtists #CreativeJourney

Join us as we sit down with our host, Sarah LaPierre, and this week's guest, Jeanne Martin, a talented artist, illustrator, and designer who wears many creative hats. As the upcoming 2025 MOSAIC artist, Jeanne shares her journey from early inspirations in drawing to becoming a versatile creative professional.

Together, we explore the thriving art scene in Palm Beach County, Jeanne’s experience with urban sketching, and her work with organizations like the Armory Art Center and The Palm Beach Post. Learn about her process, her love for storytelling through illustration, and how she brings personality to her work.

Join us as we discuss:

- The inspiration behind Jeanne’s artistic journey and her creative evolution.

- Behind-the-scenes insights into her MOSAIC 2025 project.

- The world of urban sketching and how it connects artists with their surroundings.

- The balance of freelancing, creating, and continuously learning new skills.

- Advice for aspiring artists looking to develop a consistent creative practice.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Connect with Jeanne Martin:

Website: https://jeannemartincreative.com

Instagram: @weirddailydrawings

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-martin-4127409/

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

#UrbanSketching #Illustration #PalmBeachCulture #Freelancing

Join us as we sit down with our host, Sarah LaPierre, and this week's guest, Victoria Cardona, a multi-talented musician, Cuban-American West Palm Beach native, and one-woman band. Together, they explore the vibrant music scene in Palm Beach County, Victoria’s Afro-Caribbean and jazz-inspired journey, and the creative process behind her debut album.

Victoria shares her journey from self-teaching guitar after hearing Stevie Ray Vaughan’s "Texas Flood" to becoming a looping artist with performances spanning Palm Beach County to international stages like Spain and the Canary Islands. Learn how her Cuban heritage, technical skills, and love for storytelling come together in her music.

Join us as we discuss:

- The influence of Cuban rhythms and culture on Victoria’s music.

- Behind-the-scenes insights into Victoria’s debut album.

- Memorable performances, including playing in a volcanic cavern in Lanzarote, Spain.

- The art of live looping and creating layered, dynamic performances as a solo musician.

- Advice for aspiring musicians on balancing performance schedules and creating fearlessly.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Connect with Victoria Cardona:

Website: http://victoriacardona.com/home/

Instagram: @victoriacardonamusic

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

#LiveLooping #AfroCaribbeanMusic #PalmBeachCulture

Join us as we sit down with our host, Sarah LaPierre, and this week's guest, Jennifer O’Brien, an educator, CEO, creative entrepreneur, and upcycling expert. Together, they explore the transformative power of art, sustainability, and education in building stronger, more connected communities.

Jen shares her journey from rural Pennsylvania to leading Florida’s nonprofit scene, where she now champions creative reuse and sustainability through Resource Depot. Discover how her passion for collage art, inspired by narratives from discarded materials, fuels her mission to make art and sustainability accessible to everyone.

Join us as we discuss:

- The importance of fostering creativity and sustainability in education and everyday life.

- Behind-the-scenes insights into Resource Depot’s journey as a hub for creative reuse.

- How upcycling and art can transform communities and reduce waste.

- Innovative initiatives like the Catwalk Student Fashion Show and Waste to Wonder exhibition. - Practical tips for incorporating sustainability into your daily routine.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com

Connect with Jennifer O'Brien: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-o-brien-pbg33418/ Resource Depot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resourcedepot/?hl=en

Resource Depot Website: https://www.resourcedepot.org/

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

#ArtAndSustainability #CreativeReuse #PalmBeachCulture

In this powerful episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, host Sarah LaPierre dives deep into the intersection of education, culture, and representation with special guest Brian Knowles, an educator, historian, and advocate for culturally inclusive curriculum. Brian's inspiring journey from disengaged student to leading curriculum developer shines a light on the transformative power of representation in education. As the founder of Power Builders and a trailblazer in culturally responsive teaching, Brian shares his mission to bring diverse perspectives to the forefront in schools and communities. He discusses his work on the Palm Beach County Black Cultural Heritage Trail, his efforts to highlight African-American contributions to history, and how storytelling through art and music can inspire students to connect with their identity and culture. Join us as we discuss: - The challenges and importance of creating culturally affirming spaces in education. - Behind-the-scenes insights into the development of the Palm Beach County Black Cultural Heritage Trail. - How hip-hop, music, and visual arts are revolutionizing traditional curriculum. - The systemic barriers to inclusive education and how we can create meaningful change locally and nationally. - Stories of empowerment and pride from students whose lives have been transformed by Brian's work. Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉 Follow us on social media: Instagram: @artigras Facebook: @artigras ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com Follow Brian Knowles on social media: https://www.instagram.com/teachhealbuild/ Teach Heal Build Website: https://teachhealbuild.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY3lzMqVQMj6syMmMAtf0BnhyxtnGnXGbgASQE62TO5YeqPEP9DmOouTfg_aem_n1zqvQwcUKfiHjNBMG32Mw Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County #Education #Representation #CulturalHeritage #CulturalEducation

In this inspiring episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, we sit down with Benji Studt, a passionate conservationist, scientist, artist, and storyteller whose work beautifully connects art, culture, and the natural wonders of Palm Beach County. Benji shares his journey from childhood adventures exploring the wild to leading impactful environmental initiatives today.

As an Outreach and Science Communication leader for Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management, Benji combines his love for photography, education, and nature to inspire others to connect with Florida's wild spaces. He shares powerful insights into conservation, his role in creating the incredible film Hidden Wild, and the transformative experiences of leading eco-tours and storytelling through photography.

Join us as we discuss:

- The mission of Palm Beach County's Natural Areas program and its impact on local ecosystems.

- Behind-the-scenes stories from Hidden Wild, an adventure film now part of Palm Beach County Schools' curriculum.

- How outreach programs like Adventure Awaits bring people closer to the magic of Florida's diverse landscapes.

- Inspiring photography tales and encounters with Florida’s unique wildlife, from alligators to swallow-tailed kites.

- Tips for fostering curiosity and embracing the connection between art, nature, and community.

Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and even more insight into the arts & culture of Palm Beach County visit our Sponsor’s website! https://www.palmbeachculture.com

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! 🎉

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @artigras

Facebook: @artigras

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: https://www.artigras.org

ArtiGras Podcast Website: https://www.artigraspodcast.com

Follow Benji Studt on social media: https://www.instagram.com/benjistudtphoto/

Watch Hidden Wild: https://www.thepalmbeaches.com/hidden-wild

Presented to you by: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

#Conservation #Photography #WildFlorida #CulturalCapital #PalmBeaches