What does it take to go from the classroom… to a national stage? In this special live video episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, recorded on location at Kent Island High School in partnership with QAC-TV, host Michael Bell sits down with 2026 National Art Education Association Rising Star Award recipient Olivia Valenti—a senior, artist, and leader whose journey represents the very best of arts education.

Fresh off the national stage in Chicago, Olivia reflects on the moment she was recognized in front of art educators from across the country—and the years of dedication, discipline, and purpose that led her there.

Joining her is her teacher, Andrea Schulte, Visual Arts Department Chair at KIHS and a nationally recognized educator whose impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Together, they explore the power of mentorship, the importance of student voice, and what it really means to build a program rooted in connection, opportunity, and excellence.

The episode also features senior National Art Honor Society (NAHS) student leaders:
Grace Hartlove (Vice President), Madison Gorski (Treasurer), and Lindsey Smoot (Secretary), who share their perspectives on leadership, collaboration, and the culture that defines the KIHS art program.

This conversation goes beyond awards and accolades—it’s about the process behind the moment.

Because as always—the work is just the surface… it’s what’s underneath that people feel.

🎨 Experience it for yourself at ArtScene:📍 Queen Anne’s County High School – April 28 (5–8 PM)📍 Kent Island High School – April 30 (5–8 PM)
Free and open to the public

On Host Michael Bell:Outside of his work with QACPS, Michael will be opening a private working art studio in Chestertown, MD this spring—continuing his work as an artist through public workshops and studio intensives under MBELLART Productions, LLC.
🎥 Preview the space here: [YouTube Short]

By Appointment Only.

info@mbellart.com

Drawing Confidence Through Creativity — A Conversation with Amanda Idleman

In the March 1st episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, host Michael Bell sits down with Amanda Idleman, Library Media Specialist at Church Hill Elementary School, to explore how creativity, kindness, and connection shape today’s school library spaces.

From being inspired by her own kindergarten teacher to unexpectedly discovering her passion for Media Center education, Amanda shares how arts integration, storytelling, and safe creative environments help students build confidence and identity. The conversation dives into her work creating student murals, watercolor exploration spaces, and affirmation-based routines that help children feel seen and valued.

Amanda also reflects on her personal journey — navigating life after collegiate athletics, overcoming anxiety and perfectionism, pursuing her Master’s in Teaching Leadership, and dreaming of writing a children’s book that encourages resilience and kindness.

This episode is about more than libraries — it’s about belonging, creativity, and the educators quietly shaping the next generation, so tune in!

In this February 1st episode of ArtScene | The Podcast, host Michael Bell sits down with veteran art educator Garnette Hines to explore creativity, reinvention, and why “the journey is the destination.” With 25 years in art education—including 17 years in Interactive Media and a powerful shift into elementary art—Garnette reflects on process over product, building community partnerships, and the joy found in helping students discover their creative voice. This episode will resonate with art teachers, arts leaders, and educators across Maryland, NAEA, and beyond who believe that growth, reflection, and joy are at the heart of meaningful arts education.