Zak Foster, a community-taught textile artist, joins host Kate Savage for an exploration of his exhibition "Southern White Amnesia" at the Morland Gallery, which delves into the family stories white Americans tell—and forget—about their historical roles in slavery. Zak describes how discovering records of his ancestors’ involvement in slavery became a catalyst for both his research and creative practice. He reflects on the process of confronting family denial, building kinship, and using quilting as a form of narrative repair. The episode touches on the tactile power of textiles, audience reactions to interactive pieces, and Zak’s commitment to channeling all proceeds from his work to scholarships at HBCUs, as a gesture of ancestral accountability and reparative action. Through fabric, Zak aims to crack open conversations about legacy, whiteness, and collective responsibility while honoring the ongoing work of mending and connection.

For more and to connect with us, visit https://www.artsconnectlex.org/art-throb-podcast.html

Daniel Pfalzgraf, longtime preparator, curator and now gallery owner, sits down with Kate to discuss the seamless transition of Lexington’s beloved New Editions Gallery into its next chapter as Wheelhouse Art. Daniel recounts his two-decade journey through museum and gallery worlds, how mentorship and timing made gallery ownership possible, and the remarkable parallels between his Louisville and Lexington stories. Kate and Daniel touch on the significance of keeping commercial, for-profit galleries alive in Lexington and what it means for local and regional artists. Daniel shares plans for “Extended Family,” a welcoming group exhibition to introduce Wheelhouse Art to the city, and reveals his approach for blending established and new artists, hosting community-focused events, and entrusting local gallery manager with nurturing Lexington’s art ecosystem. The conversation highlights the strength of continuity, the promise of fresh vision, and the vital role of community in making art accessible and exciting.

For more and to connect with us, visit https://www.artsconnectlex.org/art-throb-podcast.html

Lori Meadows, Board Chair of Kentuckians for the Arts and former Executive Director of the Kentucky Arts Council, joins host Kate Savage to discuss the essential role of arts advocacy across Kentucky. Lori sheds light on the dramatic decline in state arts funding—from $4.5 million in 2001 to just $1.8 million today—ranking Kentucky 45th in the nation and second lowest in the South for per capita arts allocation. Together, Lori and Kate explore the challenges of uniting the state’s diverse creative communities, the economic impact of the arts sector, and the ways arts organizations serve broader community needs, from mental health to addiction recovery and veteran support. The conversation also touches on public misconceptions about the arts, the continuing need for collective advocacy, and the transformative power of creative engagement in healthcare and aging communities. Lori shares strategies for making the arts more visible and valued at every level, emphasizing the need to blend compelling data with personal stories in championing the arts across Kentucky.

For more and to connect with us, visit https://www.artsconnectlex.org/art-throb-podcast.html