Behind the Bower

In this episode of Behind the Bower, Lauren Hood, the program coordinator at the Bower Center for the Arts, sits down with artist Paddy Daugherty for a fun and insightful chat. Paddy shares her journey through music, theater, writing, and coaching, diving into how honesty shapes her creative process. She opens up about the ups and downs of the modern music industry, the shift to digital platforms, and the power of collaboration. Plus, she gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming performances and projects, inspiring listeners to follow their creative passions.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan and communications coordinator Ryan Steffen chat about all the exciting things coming up at the Bower Center for the Arts in 2025! They dive into key programs like the Susie V. Meister Emerging Artist Residency, fun classes for all ages, and new additions like CAB Kids and Bower After Hours. Plus, they talk about how the arts bring people together and make the community stronger. You won’t want to miss sneak peeks at upcoming events, including a murder mystery night, a concert series, and some amazing exhibitions!

In this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Lauren Hood welcomes artist and instructor Lauren Gaunt. Gaunt shares her artistic journey, from her early passion for art in Michigan to her education at Kalamazoo College. She discusses her inspirations, including untrained artists and the Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore. Gaunt introduces her upcoming beginner landscape painting class at the Bower Center for the Arts, emphasizing its accessibility for novices. She offers advice for beginners and talks about balancing her teaching with personal art projects, including her involvement in the Daisy Art Parade in Roanoke.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Lauren Hood explores the transformative power of art in education with art teacher Emily and her students from Staunton River High School. Emily, with 31 years of teaching experience, shares her journey and the joy of fostering creativity in her classroom. Students Nate and Lexie discuss their artistic inspirations and personal growth through art. The conversation highlights how art serves as a therapeutic outlet and a means of self-expression.

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin introduces Jennifer Coffman, a new instructor at the Bower Center for the Arts and a counseling intern at Kairos Counseling. They delve into the significance of mindfulness and discuss Jennifer's upcoming class, "Stepping into Mindfulness." Jennifer shares her extensive background in clinical mental health counseling and music therapy, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in managing stress and enhancing well-being.

In the first 2025 episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin from the Bower Center for the Arts discusses arts and community events. She introduces Sabrina East, owner of "Jump Into Mystery," who shares her journey from hobbyist to business owner. Sabrina details her company's murder mystery events, including the upcoming "Fatal Flashback: A Prom to Die For," and emphasizes the importance of personalized character roles and costumes.

In this episode of Behind The Bower, host Susan Martin sits down with Ryan Steffen, the new Communications and Guest Relations Coordinator, and Lauren Hood, the Program Coordinator. They chat about their experiences at the Bower Center over the past year and share what they're excited about for 2025. From standout events like Bourbon and Blues and Art of Pairing to community outreach efforts and new programs like mosaic studios and pottery classes, there’s plenty to look back on—and even more to look forward to!

On this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Susan Martin chats with Brenda Gay Simmons and Katie about the Bower Center for the Arts' Emerging Artist Residency Program. Brenda opens up about getting back into art after raising her family and her unique approach to painting with coffee. Katie, who chairs the residency program, shares how it’s all about supporting artists from all walks of life. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

In this episode of Behind the Bower, host Susan Martin chats with Megan Huffman, the director of Share Greater Lynchburg, about connecting the community with local nonprofits and supporting local artists. They dive into how Share Greater Lynchburg got started during the COVID-19 pandemic, its reach across the region, and how it helps nonprofits collaborate and share resources. They also talk about the importance of supporting local artists through spots like the Bower Center for the Arts.

In this episode of the Behind the Bower podcast, host Susan Martin interviews Linda Parker, founder of the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. The center honors 38 Bedford Boys who died in World War II. Linda shares how she and her husband, Ken, were inspired to create the museum after attending the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The center educates visitors about the soldiers' sacrifices through artifacts and personal stories. They discuss an upcoming fundraising event, "I'll Be Home for Christmas: A World War II Radio Show," at the Bower Center for the Arts.