The Art Box - Episode 436 - Happily Facilitating Ah-ha Moments at the STEAM Center - Meet Kristi Tausinga

The Art Box - Episode 444 - Drawing the Story: From Police Sketches to Travel Posters with Will Pender

On Episode 444 of The Art Box, recorded during our Gardnerville, Nevada road trip, we visit with artist Will Pender at the lively atmosphere of DST Coffee. Will shares stories of being the kid who was always drawing, how his artistic talents unexpectedly led him into a career as a law enforcement sketch artist, and how retirement has opened new doors for exploration, creativity, and curiosity. Today, Will is known for his striking travel poster artwork, capturing the character and beauty of places. Join us as we discuss the intersection of art and observation, the fascinating world of forensic sketching, and how a lifelong passion for drawing continues to shape Will's creative journey. And yes, you'll hear a little coffee shop ambiance in the background, a reminder that some of the best conversations happen in the middle of real life. Thank you Nevada Arts Council for covering in part my lodging and Jen Tune at Main Street Gardnerville for being a fabulous host.

The Art Box - Episode 443 - Where Stories Gather: Meet Marissa Mills of Luminary Books

Nestled in the heart of Gardnerville, Nevada, Luminary Books is much more than a bookstore, it is a community gathering place where creativity, curiosity, and connection thrive. In this episode of The Art Box, Steve sits down with owner Marissa Mills, an artist, dance instructor, passionate reader, and champion of all things creative. Marissa shares the story behind one of Steve's favorite independent bookstores, her love of literature and the arts, and the many imaginative events she creates, from book discussions and author visits to painting experiences that bring people together. Along the way, they explore the importance of community spaces, lifelong learning, and why bookstores remain magical places where new ideas and friendships begin. Whether you're a reader, artist, dancer, or simply someone who loves discovering creative people doing extraordinary things, this conversation is sure to inspire. Because sometimes the best stories aren't just found on the shelves—they're found in the people who bring those shelves to life. Visit and shop online at: https://bookshop.org/shop/luminarybooks [https://bookshop.org/shop/luminarybooks]

The Art Box - Episode 442 - The Eye of Rie - Meet Rielynn

Step back in time with us as we visit Gardnerville, Nevada, and meet Rielynn, the creative force behind Eye of Rie Tintype Photography [https://www.eyeofrie.com/]. In an age of smartphones and instant images, Rielynn has embraced one of photography's oldest and most fascinating processes, creating stunning tintype portraits that connect modern subjects with the rich history of the photographic arts. In this episode, we explore Rielynn's journey into historic photography, the challenges and rewards of working with nineteenth-century techniques, and why people are increasingly drawn to handcrafted images in our digital world. We discuss chemistry, creativity, patience, and the magic that happens when art, history, and storytelling come together in a single photograph. Whether you're a photographer, history buff, artist, or simply curious about unique creative paths, you'll enjoy this conversation about preserving the past while creating meaningful art in the present. Join us as we discover why sometimes the oldest technology can still produce the most memorable images. You can find EyeofRie at 1452 U.S. Hwy 395 N. #B Gardnerville, NV 89410. 775-977-1000 Recorded in Gardnerville, Nevada through the generous support of the Nevada Arts Council

The Art Box - Episode 441 - Speak Your Ideas to the Universe - Meet Jen Tune

Recorded in Gardnerville, Nevada, Steve sits down with Jen Tune, Executive Director of Main Street Gardnerville [https://www.mainstreetgardnerville.org/], for a conversation about the power of creativity, collaboration, and community vision in rural Nevada. Jen shares how Main Street Gardnerville [https://www.mainstreetgardnerville.org/] works to support local businesses, strengthen economic development, celebrate the arts, and create a vibrant sense of place for residents and visitors alike. From revitalization efforts to community events, she discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with helping a small rural town thrive in a rapidly changing world. The conversation explores how curiosity fuels innovation, why the arts play a critical role in community development, and how creative thinking can spark new ideas that move a town forward. Jen also reflects on the importance of building connections, supporting entrepreneurs, and creating opportunities that encourage people to invest their talents and energy locally. Whether you're interested in rural development, the arts, entrepreneurship, or simply the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen their communities, you'll enjoy this inspiring discussion from the heart of Nevada. Join us as we explore how one creative leader is helping Gardnerville write its next chapter—one idea, one partnership, and one project at a time.

The Art Box - Episode 440 – Between Science and Poetry – The Words and Worlds of Rayann Hijazi

Poet, scholar, and proud Arab American Rayann Hijazi joins The Art Box Podcast to discuss the powerful intersection of poetry, culture, and science. A former Poetry Out Loud national competitor and current Microbiology and Immunology student at the University of Nevada, Reno, Rayann shares how her Palestinian heritage influences her writing, the challenges of finding your voice between different worlds, and why poetry remains one of the most powerful tools for understanding ourselves and each other. Thoughtful, insightful, and wise beyond her years, Rayann reminds us that curiosity and creativity belong in every field of study. Sometimes I have to pinch myself that I get to sit down and chat with such amazing creative humans. Rayann is one of those people whose passion for learning, storytelling, and building understanding leaves you feeling hopeful about the future.