Beyond the Art

KOSU
  • 5.0 (4)
  • VISUAL ARTS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Beyond the Art

BEYOND THE ART is hosted by Cray Bauxmont-Flynn who strives to highlight a diversity of roles and voices across the Native American art world, from artists to museum directors and everyone in between.

  1. MAY 29

    The Fusion of Tradition and Modern Expression with Neal Ambrose-Smith

    Acclaimed multidisciplinary Native American artist Neal Ambrose-Smith takes us on a fascinating journey through the intersection of heritage and contemporary art. Neal shares how his diverse tribal lineage influences his work, challenging stereotypes and expanding perceptions of what Native American art can encompass. He candidly discusses the cultural hurdles faced by Native artists in the mainstream art world, as well as the holistic nature of Native creativity where art is seamlessly integrated into daily life and storytelling. The conversation underscores the profound impact teaching has on an artist’s journey, providing both financial stability and a wellspring of inspiration. Neal reflects on how teaching and engaging with students rejuvenates his work, drawing parallels between his artistic influences and the dynamic exchange of ideas in the classroom. We delve into the role of art in addressing contemporary issues like politics and social justice, emphasizing that all artistic creation weaves a tapestry of personal expression and broader societal themes. Listeners are invited to appreciate the pioneering contributions of influential Native American artists like Jaune Quick-to-See Smith and Jeffrey Gibson, who have paved the way for contemporary recognition and sustainability. Social movements and digital platforms have amplified Indigenous voices, dismantling stereotypes and showcasing the modernity and depth of Native American art. Neal’s passion for photography, music, and honoring family legacies shines through, offering a vibrant exploration of the personal and communal aspects of Native artistry. Join us in celebrating the enduring impact of artistic inspiration on our daily lives.

    1h 2m

  2. MAY 1

    Celebrating Identity and Creativity in Native Fashion with Amber-Dawn Bear Robe

    Amber-Dawn Bear Robe invites us on a vibrant exploration of Indigenous fashion, revealing the layered stories and cultural significance behind each piece. As a luminary in Indigenous art, fashion, and education, Amber-Dawn shares her journey from the Siksika Nation in Alberta to her influential role in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Through her experiences, we unravel how her heritage and the political nature of being Native infuse her work with meaning, challenging stereotypes and elevating Indigenous voices on global platforms like the Getty. We traverse the nuances of curating Indigenous art with Amber-Dawn, drawing insights from her work at the Urban Shaman Gallery in Winnipeg. The conversation highlights the collaborative spirit necessary for showcasing Indigenous art and fashion, emphasizing fashion's universal language as a conduit for cultural expression. A pivotal moment at a fashion show at the Getty underscores the power of prominent platforms in celebrating Indigenous talent. Amber-Dawn also discusses her contributions to education, particularly her efforts in developing Indigenous fashion history courses at the Institute of American Indian Arts. Looking towards the future, Amber-Dawn envisions Santa Fe as a burgeoning fashion capital, advocating for greater investment in events like Native Fashion Week Santa Fe. She dreams of a world where Indigenous designers gain global recognition and economic success, while honoring the historical significance of past art movements, such as the Indian Group of Seven. Her passion for fostering change shines through as she spotlights emerging designers like John Tecom and shares personal reflections on cultural identity, style, and the joy of creativity. Join us for an inspiring discussion that celebrates the enduring power and potential of Indigenous fashion and art.

    47 min

  3. APR 3

    Marie Watt: Weaving Tradition and Innovation in Indigenous Art

    Renowned artist Marie Watt, a proud member of the Seneca Nation, invites us into her vibrant world of Indigenous art, where tradition meets innovation. With an extraordinary mix of text, textiles, beadwork, sculptures, and neon, Marie shares her journey from her early days at Willamette University to her transformative experiences at the Institute of American Indian Arts. Her art is a profound reflection of her Seneca identity, especially through the symbolic use of blankets, deeply rooted in her cultural heritage and personal narrative. Marie offers insights into the communal traditions reflected in her art, drawing from her experiences within the urban Indian community of the Pacific Northwest. Join us as we uncover the magic behind Marie's sewing circles, a practice that blossomed from necessity into a rich community-building exercise. These gatherings brim with storytelling and intergenerational exchange, emphasizing the connection between traditional beadwork and modern neon as evolving storytelling mediums. The episode also navigates the contemporary landscape of Indigenous art in prestigious collections, with language playing a crucial role in Marie's work. Themes such as "turtle," "island," and "companion species" challenge us to reconsider our relationships with nature, while cultural narratives and Marvin Gaye’s music inspire reflections on motherhood and community. Marie's narrative beautifully intertwines language and art, reshaping how we perceive familial and communal ties.

    32 min

  4. MAR 20

    Exploring the Transformative Power of Native American Art with Laura J. Allen

    Journey with us into the colorful and thought-provoking world of Native American art with our special guest, Laura J. Allen. As the Curator of Native American Art at the Montclair Art Museum, Laura shares her fascinating journey from the American Museum of Natural History to her current role, where she spearheads groundbreaking projects. She sheds light on the collaborative vision behind the reinstallation of MAM's Native American Art Collection, crafted in close consultation with a Native American Art Advisory Council. Laura’s passion for an artist-focused curatorial approach shines through in her work on exhibitions like Meryl McMaster Chronologies and From My Home to Yours, where themes of time disruption and inclusivity take center stage. We unravel the layers of creativity and cultural dialogue in exhibitions that merge historical and contemporary Native art forms, challenging colonial narratives and celebrating Indigenous knowledge. The episode features the thoughtful works of artists such as Holly Wilson and Nicholas Galanin, who engage with historical collections to critique misattributions and colonial suppression. Through powerful site-specific installations and narratives of dispossession and reconnection, the exhibitions aim to transform the museum space, fostering a dialogue between the past and present. With insights from creatives like Sine Austro and Sebastian Aubin, we explore how weaving serves as both a metaphor and a tool for storytelling in these exhibitions. Looking forward, the conversation also highlights the ongoing evolution of Indigenous textiles and fashion at MAM, emphasizing cultural expression and sovereignty. Laura delves into the complex process of selecting works from a vast collection while adhering to NAGPRA guidelines and collaborating with Indigenous communities. Exciting upcoming projects, such as a 2026 exhibition on Northwest Coast dress and textiles, promise to continue the museum’s commitment to highlighting the transformative power of contemporary Native American art. Through these vibrant discussions, we emphasize our dedication to deepening responsibilities to Native communities and exploring the potential of future exhibitions to promote justice and environmental stewardship.

    48 min

  5. MAR 6

    Rediscovering Tlingit Traditions with Jennifer Younger

    Join us for a captivating conversation with Jennifer Younger, a remarkable Tlingit metalwork and jewelry artist whose work has not only graced the cover of British Vogue but also resonates deeply with cultural significance. Jennifer shares her inspiring journey of reconnecting with her Tlingit heritage, driven by a desire to bridge the cultural gaps left by her grandmother’s boarding school experience. Her story is a powerful testament to the resurgence of cultural pride and revitalization among Indigenous communities, as seen through the eyes of her daughter who actively participates in Tlingit dance and language. This episode celebrates the importance of cultural continuity, showcasing how traditional practices are being reclaimed and celebrated within modern contexts. As we explore Jennifer's artistic vision, we delve into the nuances of cultural appropriation and the collaborative spirit that defines her work. Her innovative blend of floral designs with traditional form line art creates a unique narrative accessible to both Native and non-Native audiences. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of expanding her reach and fostering understanding through community support and open dialogue. Jennifer’s reflections on balancing traditional techniques with modern innovations offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of metalwork and jewelry. Listen in as we celebrate her recent recognition as Jeweler of the Year and anticipate the future directions her inspiring career will take.

    32 min

  6. FEB 6

    Exploring Indigenous Art and Innovation with Tai Leclaire: Humor, Advocacy, and Representation in Entertainment

    Join us for a captivating exploration of Indigenous art and innovation with the multi-talented Tai Leclaire – actor, comedian, and director. Tai takes us through his creative journey, beginning with his powerful short film "Headdress" that wowed audiences at Sundance. Drawing from his own experiences with microaggressions and casual racism, Tai shares how his improvisational skills have been pivotal in navigating his career. From his role in "Rutherford Falls" to his ability to harmonize comedy and serious themes, Tai's stories offer a profound look into the nuances of Indigenous representation on screen and the artistry behind it. As we turn the page, a former JCrew art director joins the conversation, highlighting the strides made in Indigenous representation in the entertainment world and advocating for even more diverse voices. Their insights reveal the rich humor and cultural significance embedded in Native-created content, from amusing anecdotes on the "Rutherford Falls" set to vibrant performances at Upright Citizens Brigade Theater. We even spice things up with a lighthearted debate on the merits of pineapple on pizza and tease some exciting projects on the horizon for 2025. This episode is a thoughtful blend of humor, advocacy, and anticipation that will leave you inspired and curious for more.

    29 min

  7. JAN 23

    Honoring Indigenous Voices Through Art and Stories

    Join us on a journey through the vibrant world of Native American art and creativity as we celebrate our podcast's third year. As hosts, Cray Bauxmont-Flynn and Joe Williams, we reflect on the evolution of "Beyond the Art" and the incredible artists we've had the pleasure of showcasing. We share standout moments and stories from the past year, featuring inspiring conversations with Jeffrey Gibson and Crystal Worll, among others. Through these engaging discussions, we not only highlight the artists' unique work but also share the life lessons they impart. Our commitment to providing a platform for Native American artistry remains strong as we look ahead to 2024 and 2025 with gratitude for our listeners' continued support. Explore the world of Indigenous children's literature and the importance of authentic representation in storytelling. We discuss the excitement and challenges of creating stories that resonate with Native American youth, while also addressing the anxieties of hearing one's own voice on recordings and the potential for errors. Additionally, we touch on personal updates, including a potential move to California and the impact of ongoing fires in the region. With empathy and a focus on recovery efforts, we highlight the humanitarian crisis affecting communities in Southern California, emphasizing the power of stories to foster understanding and healing. Experience the diverse talents of Native American artists as we celebrate their creativity and contributions to the art world. We reflect on the past two years of the podcast, highlighting mentorship and storytelling as central themes, and the importance of challenging stereotypes to broaden perceptions. As we plan for 2025, our goal is to feature even more artists, ensuring their voices are heard. We also explore the challenges and triumphs of podcasting, from navigating interviews to creating a comfortable atmosphere for guests. With exciting guests like Jennifer Young and Suzanne Shownjo, we are eager to continue spotlighting incredible talents and sharing their impactful stories with our audience.

    1 hr

  8. 12/26/2024

    Best of BTA: Weaving Indigenous Stories on Screen and Runway with Peshawn Bread

    Celebrated Indigenous filmmaker and fashion designer Peshawn Bread graces our podcast with her powerful insights and inspiring journey. As we traverse the landscape of Peshawn's artistry, she unveils the rich tapestry woven by her Comanche, Kiowa, and Cherokee heritage into her creative work. From film to fashion, Peshawn champions the representation of Indigenous queer narratives, ensuring that joy and hope resonate with queer Indigenous youth. Her stories serve as a beacon, illuminating the path for the next generation seeking affirmation and a sense of belonging in their identity. Our dialogue takes us through the realms of mentorship and community, where figures like Sydney Freeland emerge as guiding lights for young Indigenous artists navigating the film industry. Peshawn's endeavors extend beyond her personal creative pursuits as she spearheads the compilation of a directory for Indigenous talent—an invaluable resource to foster collaborations and maintain the cultural integrity of Native American representation. This episode reveals how art can be a powerful tool for advocacy, and the delicate balance artists must strike when commercial interests meet cultural authenticity. As we wrap up, Peshawn shares her dreams for her fashion brand House of Sutai and reflects on the unexpected discovery of Indigenous connections in places from Hollywood to high fashion. It's a closing that leaves us inspired to support and seek out the richness of our own communities, encouraged by Peshawn's journey of creativity and cultural exploration.

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

BEYOND THE ART is hosted by Cray Bauxmont-Flynn who strives to highlight a diversity of roles and voices across the Native American art world, from artists to museum directors and everyone in between.

Information

  • Creator
    KOSU
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    73
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 KOSU Radio
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Art

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