Five years ago, in October 2020, I launched the podcast series Arts & Ideas — a conversation-platform for visual artists, designers, writers, creators and arts leaders in the Atlanta region and beyond. I remember this moment was during the height of social shutdowns due to COVID-19 and I wanted to foster some semblance of humanity and connection during that time, even if we had to create it virtually.

The idea was simple: to sit down with makers and thought-leaders, hear their origin stories, learn the decisions that shaped their practice, and trace how place, identity, and community show up in the arts ecosystem.

Five years is a long time in the world and in the arts: new projects have launched, practices have evolved, institutions have shifted, and communities have changed. However, I’m excited to know that many of these folks are still doing remarkable things now, just as they were then.

And whether you’re tuning in again or discovering these conversations new, I hope you’ll listen, reflect, and maybe pause: What’s changed for you in these past five years? Where are you now compared to then?

Cover art created by the superb Barbara Rego.

The funding for Arts & Ideas was provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.