This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast features a follow-up conversation with musician and composer Rachel Mari Kimber, the National Parks Arts Foundation’s Fall 2024 Artist-in-Residence at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona.

Rachel discusses her new single, “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed,” a soulful piece inspired by the desert landscapes and experiences during her residency. She shares insights into her creative process, the emotional and healing power of music, and how nature—especially the desert—continues to shape her artistry. The conversation explores themes of harmony, community, and the personal connections music evokes.

Rachel also opens up about upcoming projects including an ambient album and a sound healing release, and talks about her work with Black Forest Society and Happy Joy Harmony.

🎵 “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed” is available on all major music platforms including Spotify, Amazon, YouTube, and CD Baby.

🎧 Listen to earlier parts of Rachel’s residency journey: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/musician-rachel-mari-kimber-in-saguaro-national-park/

🌐 More about Rachel Mari Kimber: https://rachelmarikimber.com

🎨 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org

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

Join this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show, featuring Tanya Ortega, acclaimed photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). In honor of Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Tanya shares inspiring stories and insights about NPAF’s exclusive month-long artist residency programs at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island and Haleakalā National Park on Maui.

These fully supported residencies are open to artists of all disciplines — including painters, photographers, sculptors, filmmakers, composers, musicians, writers, and more — offering a unique opportunity to live and create while surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Hawaii’s national parks.

🔗 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