CENTREVILLE, MD—ArtScene | The Podcast is thrilled to announce an April 2nd episode featuring a powerful conversation with David Modler, a leading figure in the visual journaling movement and longtime artistic accomplice of host Michael Bell. Modler—best known as one-half of the original Journal Fodder Junkies—shares his experiences as an artist-educator, author, and professor of art at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
In this exclusive interview, listeners will explore Modler’s creative journey and the transformative role visual journaling has played in both education and personal growth. Bell and Modler share a unique connection through their mentorship—at different points in time—under the legendary Dr. Jane Bates at Towson University. Her lasting influence helped bring the two together and sparked a decades-long collaboration that continues to shape national conversations around arts education. Modler has also become an invaluable resource for visual arts teachers across Queen Anne’s County Public Schools.
The episode dives into the origins and evolution of Modler’s work, offering behind-the-scenes insights into collaborative national workshops co-led with artists Eric Scott, Samuel Peck, Michael Dodson, and Michael Bell. These sessions champion play, spontaneity, and authentic community-building. Modler also reflects on the emotional impact of collaborative artmaking, the power of vulnerability in creative spaces, and his personal connection to photojournalist Dan Eldon—whose mother wrote the foreword to one of Modler’s books.
In addition to this rich conversation, ArtScene | The Podcast is pleased to announce a bonus 15-minute segment extending the dialogue with David Modler, scheduled for release on April 15, 2025. This special follow-up will explore the future of visual journaling and its growing role as both a personal practice and a catalyst for deeper human connection.
Tune in on Spotify or at https://anchor.fm/artscene.
Also available: an inspiring video podcast recorded LIVE from the 2024 NAEA National Convention in Minneapolis, MN, taking listeners behind the scenes of national workshops centered on visual journaling and collaboration art.