Art "In Service," Finding Your Audience, and the Importance of Positive News

Chapter 1: The Upcycled Mannequin Art Project (0:00)Jane discusses a recent interview with an artist from her network, Studio B, who upcycles mannequin heads into unique pieces of art.Jane highlights one specific character created from a mannequin named "Gary," a "nerd" wearing a bow tie and glasses whose head is decoupaged with a home repair manual.Chapter 2: Podcast Logistics & Broadening Reach (3:06)Yergz shares an update on the technical side of the network, noting that the Both Sides Now podcast currently lacks the option for callers to call in directly, but that he is working on a fix for this.Yergz talks about expanding the show's reach, including adding Jane’s shows to a 24/7 internet radio station to catch listeners in different time zones and those who leave the radio on for their pets.Yergz mentions finding the podcast available on smaller, lesser-known platforms like "Ghana Podcasts" and "JioSaavn."Chapter 3: Upcoming Summer Exhibits & Youth Engagement (5:20)Jane provides updates on Studio B, noting that there's a slight lull in activities before their summer exhibit opens.She details an upcoming art showcase titled "In Service," which explores the theme of service—whether military, community-based, or acts of kindness—through various mediums, including poetry and prose.Jane discusses the challenge of getting youth engaged with the arts and shares that she recently distributed "Thank You" cards created by high school students to show appreciation for the community.Jane highlights a group of young women who approached her wanting to teach art workshops and write classes, indicating a positive step in youth involvement at the studio.Chapter 4: The Changing Media Landscape & New Opportunities (12:35)Yergz and Jane discuss the shifting media landscape and the struggle to get coverage for positive local stories, noting that traditional media often prioritizes negative news to generate clicks.Jane emphasizes her dedication to creating a platform that highlights positive stories and local art, even if it requires extra effort.Yergz talks about the benefits of creating a dedicated app for their media network, making it easier for listeners to access their content.Chapter 5: Closing (18:50)Jane and Yergz wrap up the episode, thanking each other for the conversation and looking forward to the next week.0:00 Chapter 1: The Upcycled Mannequin Art Project3:06 Chapter 2: Podcast Logistics & Broadening Reach5:20 Chapter 3: Upcoming Summer Exhibits & Youth Engagement12:35 Chapter 4: The Changing Media Landscape & New Opportunities18:05 Chapter 5: Closing