The Living Canvas: Art, Parks, and the Unfolding Human Story

Join us for a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Parks & Arts" as we celebrate American Adventures Month and American Artists Appreciation Month. We're joined by acclaimed photographer and visionary, Tanya Ortega, founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). Tanya shares her passion for the deep connections between artists and national parks, highlighting how NPAF's unique artist-in-residence programs are crucial for interpreting and sharing the cultural and historical significance of these treasured landscapes. We explore how artists act as storytellers, unearthing the human history intertwined with nature, and creating art that connects us to our heritage and to each other.  From personal stories and ancestral connections to the importance of preserving history through archives and libraries, this conversation covers the challenges and resilience of artists working in these natural spaces. We also touch on how technology is shaping the future of art and why honoring the human legacy within our parks is more vital than ever. It's a deep dive into the powerful role of art in keeping our shared human story alive within America's most beautiful places. Learn More about NPAF: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/  Resources Mentioned: - Tour NY Public Library’s Famed Schwarzman Building: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/tour-ny-public-librarys-famed-schwarzman-building/  - Latest NPAF Artist-in-Residence Interviews: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing-category/national-parks-arts/  - NPAF Archive of Artist Interviews & Features in Big Blend Magazines: https://fliphtml5.com/bookcase/xamdz/  Listen & Follow: - Toast to The Parks & Arts Podcast: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/   - Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork