Behind the Bower

In this episode of Behind the Bower, Lauren Hood sits down with Mackenzie Caun and Chandler Hood from Sentry Equipment, the title sponsor of the “Art of Pairing: Martini and Moonshine” fundraiser. They talk about Sentry’s role as a local manufacturer, their dedication to community involvement, and the value of supporting the arts. The conversation delves into Sentry’s charitable efforts, company culture, and enthusiasm for the upcoming event. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted discussion on martinis versus moonshine and encourages listeners to support the Bower Center for the Arts by attending the fundraiser.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren sits down with James and Bryan, directors at Sentry Equipment & Erectors, Inc. in Forest, Virginia. They discuss their career journeys, Sentry’s cutting-edge conveyor and packaging systems, and the company’s culture of adaptability and transparency. The conversation also explores Sentry’s strong community involvement, recent hiring achievements, and local partnerships highlighted by their sponsorship of the “Art of Pairing: Martinis and Moonshine” fundraiser. This episode offers valuable insight into Sentry’s industry leadership, continued growth, and deep commitment to both its team and the Forest community.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin talks with Nicole Johnson, Bedford County’s Director of Tourism, about the role arts and culture play in building community spirit and drawing visitors. They discuss the impact of events like the Festival of Trees, spotlight Bedford’s growing arts scene, and share details on what’s ahead, including new exhibits, youth programs, and the county’s 250th American Revolution celebration. The conversation highlights the strong ties between the arts, tourism, and local businesses, showing Bedford as a creative and welcoming place for both residents and visitors.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with Bedford native and writer Hedron McCormick, along with resident artist Lori Stetson of the Bower Center. The conversation touches on Hedron’s return to Bedford, her short story Look for Sharp Top, and the creation of a commissioned artwork inspired by her writing. Together, they explore themes of home, community, and the ways art and storytelling can shape connection. The episode also spotlights upcoming events at the Bower Center, underscoring the role of art in fostering both personal expression and a sense of belonging.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood sits down with Zach McDonald, bassist for the Lenny Marcus Trio. Zach reflects on his musical journey, from early band days to becoming a jazz performer, highlighting the impact of his mentors, the shift from brass to bass, and the trio’s distinctive, conversational sound. He shares perspectives on jazz improvisation, the art of storytelling through music, and what audiences can expect at a live performance. The episode wraps up with details on the trio’s upcoming concert at the Bower Center, along with a special ticket giveaway for listeners.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan sits down with Emilie Temeles, a passionate teacher, volunteer, and board member at the Bower Center for the Arts. Emily shares her path from the classroom to arts advocacy, reflecting on the center’s evolution, its outreach efforts, and the creative programs that continue to grow. She emphasizes the welcoming spirit of the center, its positive influence on Bedford, and her commitment to fostering inclusive artistic opportunities. The episode highlights the Bower Center’s rich history, strong community ties, and the transformative role of the arts, while also offering a glimpse into upcoming events and initiatives.

In this episode of "Behind the Bower," host Ryan interviews artist Elaine Flack about her solo exhibition, "Fragmentary Forms," at the Bower Center for the Arts. Elaine discusses her creative process, blending fabric and paint, and how her travels and life experiences influence her vibrant, textured works. She reflects on the blurred lines between art and craft, her inspirations, and the importance of allowing viewers to find their own meanings in art.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren sits down with jewelry artist Avni Patel to discuss her journey from India to the United States, her background in sculpture, and the ways her cultural heritage informs her intricate metalwork. Avni shares insights into her creative process with silver metal clay and offers a preview of her upcoming hands-on workshop at the Bower Center for the Arts, where participants will design their own leaf or flower pendants. The conversation emphasizes Avni’s passion for craftsmanship, teaching, and the transformative joy of turning raw materials into wearable art—inviting listeners to tap into their own creativity.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren sits down with Olivia Fletcher, a hobby ceramicist and instructor at the Bower Center. Olivia recounts her journey from discovering ceramics to becoming a teacher, touching on the craft’s sustainability, her home studio, and the joy of nurturing creativity in students of all ages. She emphasizes the inclusive, therapeutic qualities of ceramics—particularly for neurodivergent children—and offers a preview of her upcoming classes for kids and teens. The conversation highlights art’s ability to foster confidence, community, and connection, perfectly reflecting the podcast’s mission to share inspiring stories in arts and culture.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Ryan dives into the Bower Center for the Arts’ vibrant summer camps alongside Programs Coordinator Lauren and instructors Bobbi and Kayla. Together, they unpack the camps’ imaginative themes, interactive art activities, and the meaningful ways these experiences help young participants connect and grow. The conversation features memorable highlights, reflections on the power of creative expression, and the role of art as a tool for communication. Listeners will also get a preview of upcoming events at the Bower Center, all reinforcing its mission to cultivate creativity, inclusivity, and community engagement through the arts—for children and the greater Bedford area.