This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show celebrates Great Outdoors Month with Tanya Ortega, acclaimed photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). NPAF leads the way in establishing unique, month-long artist-in-residence programs in national parks across the country.

In this inspiring conversation, Tanya shares how art acts as a catalyst for change and preservation, and how artists help deepen the cultural and emotional value of our public lands. The discussion touches on the legacy of art in parks, community engagement, accessibility, and the importance of integrating creativity into conservation efforts to ensure these natural treasures are cherished by future generations.

🔗 Learn more and apply: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 🎧 Listen & follow the show: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/ 📚 Coming soon: Big Blend Radio’s NPAF Retrospective Digital Publication, celebrating 8+ years of creative collaborations in national parks.

This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio Network’s "Toast to The Arts," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Shows. 📲 Subscribe: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, to honor the life and legacy of Ted DeGrazia on what would be his 116th birthday (Flag Day, June 14).

Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region’s people, cultures, and landscapes. From his deep connections to Native American and Mexican traditions, to his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, DeGrazia’s work continues to inspire generations.

🎧 In This Episode: * The history and mission of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark in Tucson * Stories behind current exhibits: Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera and Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia (on display through Sept. 3, 2025) * DeGrazia’s ongoing influence on art, culture, and community dialogue

📍 Did You Know? * DeGrazia once made his own flag * He was featured and honored by Arizona Highways for his unique artistic voice * The gallery provides a cool and creative escape during Tucson’s hot summers

🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday 📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com

Join hosts Lisa D. Smith and Joey Stuckey on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s MUSIC TALKS Show as they chat with award-winning Bay Area bluesman James Byfield, also known as Blind Lemon Pledge, about his dynamic new live album, LEMON LIVE!

Following the success of his chart-topping 2024 acoustic blues release Oh So Good, Lemon Live! captures the raw energy, soul, and musical finesse of the Blind Lemon Pledge Band in performance. Since his debut release in 2009, James has crafted a compelling career both as a studio recording artist and live performer, showcasing his versatile style throughout Northern California and beyond. Keep up with James and his music: https://blindlemon-pledge.com/

🎵 In this conversation, you'll hear about: - The art of musical storytelling and the magic of live performance - How geography influences musical style and identity - The balance between collaboration and production perfection - James’s evolving journey in blues music and upcoming projects - Favorite live albums, musical heroes like The Allman Brothers, Miles Davis, Van Morrison & The Doors, and dream collaborations

This episode is full of insights, humor, and heartfelt reflections on the joy and purpose of making music.

🎸 About Joey Stuckey: Known as the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia – the “Southern Rock Capital of the World” – Joey is a blind, award-winning guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and sound engineer. Explore his inspiring work at https://www.joeystuckey.com/

🎙️ Tune in to Big Blend Radio’s MUSIC TALKS with Joey Stuckey every 4th Sunday at 12pm EST. 📲 Subscribe: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/