616 Presents: Looking back on the first round of episodes
Fernando Ramirez, Erika Townsley, and Matthew Provoast reconnect after a very exciting first round of podcasts. Get a recap of what you missed, and their thoughts on their guests’ stories.
For Fernando Ramirez, Erika Townsley, and Matthew Provoast, starting a podcast was something that they had a huge interest in. By being involved with so many colleagues involved in the arts in Grand Rapids, they have spoken to so many individuals about their stories.
It was clear that those stories should be heard outside of those conversations, and so 616 Presents was born. It was a great first round of episodes, with guests Abbey Hunter, Holly Bechiri, and Justin Beitzel.
Townsley’s first guest was Abbey Hunter, founder of The Hot Spot. The Hot Spot is an in-the-works metal smithing studio and shop, located at 1606 Fuller Ave SE.
Hunter pushed through hardships and made them into her own dream at The Hot Spot.
Holly Bechiri from culturedGR spoke with Provoast about all things arts.
Bechiri had interviewed Provoast in the past, but now it was his turn to put her in the hot seat. Bechiri spoke on how culturedGR came to be, and how she connects the public of Grand Rapids to an accessible and approachable art scene.
Learn more about how to become a member of culturedGR for as little as $5 for a behind the scenes look at visual and performing arts in Grand Rapids.
Ramirez had his good friend Justin Beitzel over to talk about what led up to his career with Steelcase. His background of growing with small town values allows him to look at design in a unique way.
Ramirez and Beitzel discuss the importance of “user centered design” and how it affects the end result.
Ramirez, Townsley, and Provoast talk about what they’re up to as well. Ramirez is currently partnering with the Cook Arts Center by teaching middle schoolers about architecture and industrial design. Townsley and Provoast are excited to host Emerson Schreiner for an exhibition at Light Gallery + Studio through the month of March.
616 Presents is a podcast recorded at Light Gallery + Studio in Grand Rapids, MI. With a focus on Art, Design, and Community, conversations are had with the movers and shakers living in Grand Rapids — or just passing through. The hosts for 616 Presents are Erika Townsley, Fernando Ramirez, and Matthew Provoast. Recording supported by Kearney Creative.
