In this episode of State of Art, host Bree Pappan sits down with artist and gallerist Jeff Madeen of Blo Back Gallery and event producer Steve Poikonen to explore the creative engine behind the Truth Show and the 3rd Annual Third Eye Carnival, happening July 4–6, 2025, at the Blo Back Gallery in Pueblo’s historic Grove neighborhood.

From the radical TRUTH art show opening on First Friday to three days of live music, panels, and carnival antics, this weekend-long event promises unfiltered expression and community celebration. Bree digs deep into the origins of the Carnival, the intention behind the TRUTH exhibit, and where this underground cultural force is heading next.

Art. Music. Truth. Rebellion. This isn’t just an event—it’s a movement.

Learn more: blobackgallery.com | thirdeyecarnival.com Location: Blo Back Gallery, Pueblo, CO

State of Art Podcast | Pueblo Heritage Museum: A New Chapter Begins Hosted by Bree Pappan | Presented by the Pueblo Star Journal

In this deeply insightful episode of State of Art, host Bree Pappan sits down with the new leadership team at the Pueblo Heritage Museum — an institution at the heart of Pueblo’s historical storytelling. As conversations swirl around the possible sale of the building that houses the museum and the Pueblo County Historical Society, this episode offers a timely and essential look into the future of one of Southern Colorado’s most important cultural assets.

Bree speaks with Dr. John Wendt, the museum’s new Executive Director, whose impressive background as an archivist and unwavering passion for history and preservation bring renewed energy to the institution. Also joining the conversation is Alexis “Lexi” Topping, Outreach Coordinator and Collections Assistant, whose journey from CSU Pueblo student to staff member illustrates the vital role young professionals are playing in shaping Pueblo’s cultural future.

Together, John and Lexi share their vision for the museum, current programming, and their commitment to community engagement through education, exhibitions, and the preservation of Pueblo’s stories — told through objects, photographs, and personal histories.

This episode is more than an introduction — it’s a call to action. At a moment when the museum's future is uncertain, this conversation invites listeners to engage, get involved, and consider how we as a community can protect and support the institutions that safeguard our shared heritage.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform. Then join the conversation. Share your voice, support the museum, and help shape the future of history in Pueblo.

Contact the Pueblo Heritage Museum:

Dr. John Wendt, Executive Director (630) 247-1769 | director@pueblohistory.org

Alexis “Lexi” Topping, Outreach & Collections (719) 251-2047 | alexistopping22@gmail.com

#StateOfArtPodcast #PuebloHeritageMuseum #SaveLocalHistory #PuebloStarJournal #PuebloHistoryMatters #PreservePueblo

Podcast Host Intro: State of Art – Pueblo Film Fest Edition

Welcome to State of Art, the official podcast of the Pueblo Star Journal, where we celebrate the people and projects shaping the creative spirit of Southern Colorado. I’m your host, Bree Pappan, writer of the monthly State of Art feature in the PSJ.

Today, we’re focusing on one of the region’s most exciting cultural events — the Pueblo Film Fest, returning April 24–27, 2025. I’m joined by two dynamic voices from the festival’s Board of Directors: Kennedy Pugh and Chili Cilch. Together, we explore how this annual festival is building a cinematic bridge between Pueblo and the global film community.

We talk about the origins of the festival, what’s new this year, and how film can bring people together through shared stories and bold artistic expression. Whether you're a filmmaker, a film lover, or simply someone who believes in the power of community through art — this one’s for you.

And don’t forget! Tomorrow, April 19, is the Join or Die documentary screening and the official launch of ClubCon.org — a new initiative to bring together clubs and organizations across Pueblo. This free community event runs from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center. Come be part of the conversation and discover how you can get involved!