Podcast Content


Exploring the Scottsdale Art Scene with Artists Priscilla Nelson and Ryan Schmidt

I am always fascinated by art and in particular, the artists behind the art. In today’s podcast we feature two very talented and prolific Scottsdale artists, first modern figurative  artist, Priscilla Nelson, and modern sculptor Ryan Schmidt. And to add even another perspective we also had Ryan Schmidt’s wife, Janice,  join us and she gave us her take on living with an artist! 

We had a wonderful discussion about each of their respective work and passions and how they both deal with the stress of their work and craft and what continues to motivate and inspire them. We also talk about the Scottsdale art scene and everything that’s happening to make Scottsdale one of the top art spots in the country! 

Inspiring Scottsdale Arts with Gerd Wuestemann

Rendering of the new Civic Center Performing Arts Center in downtown Scottsdale

Episode 41 of Season 2 features Dr. Gerd Wuestemann, President & CEO of Scottsdale Arts. I joined the Board for Scottsdale Arts about 6 months ago and that's when I first met Gerd and experienced his passion and vision for the arts firsthand.

After getting to know him better through prepping for this podcast, I cannot wait to learn more about his fascinating life story, starting in Germany as a Classical guitarist touring the world at an early age. In his mid/late 30’s tragedy forced him on another path where he built an academic career as professor of guitar studies at the U of Louisiana. After that he launched two successful companies before starting a career in arts administration and eventually becoming the President & CEO of Scottsdale Arts as we know him today.

Gerd also tells us all about Scottsdale Arts and its various branches, the importance of the organization in the community, the challenges of the past pandemic years, the improvements and visions for the future of Scottsdale Arts and all the exciting performances, events, etc. coming up this year!