RANDOLPH MAN TO BE FEATURED ON TV SHOW
AUGUST 10, 2022
LINCOLN –Everything made by hand tells a story.
In a new Nebraska Public Media special, Nebraska artists, artisans and craftspeople - including Jesse Thomas of Randolph - share their journeys, revealing their inspiration, unique talents and vibrant passion for the creative process.
Thomas will highlight some of his one-of-a-kind, handmade stringed instruments he makes through his guitars.
The program also features original music segments written and performed by Omaha-based blues musician Héctor Anchondo, a 2022 Blues Music Award nominee and the 2020 International Blues Challenge winner in the solo/duo category. Anchondo plays a guitar made especially for him by Thomas’ Hummingbird Guitars.
The show “Heartland Handmade” Other Nebraska artisans featured in the TV program include: Peace on Po – Kelsey Trausch of Burwell creates earth-driven, nurturing skincare for men and women, calling her cosmetics, beauty and self-care products “hippie vibes for modern folks.”
Sculptures by Sally – In her father’s shop on the family farm near Heartwell, Sally Jurgensmier welds metal sculptures inspired by found metal sculptures inspired by found objects and her visions of the world.
Neon Jungle – First drawn to the “brilliant colors and warm glow” of neon 30 years ago, Omaha glass-bender Karen Chaka fabricates new signs and brings fresh life to vintage ones.
Silver of Oz – In Elkhorn, Turkish- born silversmith and jewelry designer Levent Oz draws on influences from Ottoman court jewelry, the modern European style and other traditions.
Sandhills Boot Company – In Cody, Kyle Rosfeld handcrafts western boots using 100-year-old techniques, traditions and attention to every detail so every customer walks out with a perfect fit.
Katharen Wiese – In Lincoln, multimedia artist Katharen Wiese explores the intersections of race and identity and seeks to represent the humanity and dignity of people of color.
“Heartland Handmade” will repeat at 8 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 18 on Nebraska Public Media.