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.

Ring in the New Year with a special Best Of ArtScene | The Podcast episode—one year in rewind.

Hosted by NAEA National Supervisor of the Year Michael Bell, this highlights episode features standout moments from throughout the year, beginning with a statewide Maryland Art Education panel conversation with Bell and fellow National Supervisors of the Year, followed by inspiring segments with QACPS educators and statewide arts leaders across music, visual art, and dance.

Featured voices include Windy Broadwater, Allison Dorsey, Gabby Pfeifer, Erika Beyer, Bayrex Hernandez, Heather Efland, and Peter Pucci of the Carole Cascio Fund for Mind Movement Dance Connections.

Happy New Year—and thank you for being part of the ArtScene community. Enjoy this special one-year Best Of rewind.