Lincoln, NE- Nebraska Public Media is hosting the premiere of its “Heartland Handmade” special.
This special explores Nebraska Nebraska artists, artisans and craftspeople share their journeys, revealing their inspiration, unique talents and vibrant passion for the creative process.
From handcrafting a custom pair of boots using 100-year-old techniques to building one-of-a-kind guitars, the hour-long program features the inspiration, passion and creativity of seven heartland makers.
These include:
Silver of Oz – In Elkhorn, Turkish-born silversmith and jewelry designer Levent Oz draws on influences from Ottoman court jewelry, the modern European style and other traditions.
Peace on Po– Kelsey Trausch of Burwell creates earth-driven, nurturing skincare for men and women, calling her cosmetics, beauty and self-care products “hippie vibes for modern folks.”
Sandhills Boot Company – In Cody, Kyle Rosfeld handcrafts western boots using 100-year-old techniques, traditions and attention to every detail so every customer walks out with a perfect fit.
Humming Bird Guitars – Jesse Thomas builds one-of-a-kind, handmade stringed instruments, including classic cigar box guitars, bringing his imaginative creations to life in his Randolph shop.
Katharen Wiese – Lincoln multimedia artist Katharen Wiese explores the intersections of race and identity and seeks to represent the humanity and dignity of Black people. Wiese starts this fall as a Master of Fine Arts student at Yale University.
The program also features original music segments written and performed by Omaha-based blues musician Héctor Anchondo, a 2022 Blues Music Award nominee and the 2020 International Blues Challenge winner in the solo/duo category. Anchondo plays a guitar made specially for him by Humming Bird Guitars.
“Heartland Handmade” premieres at 7 p.m. CT, Monday, Aug. 15, on Nebraska Public Media and Facebook Live.