The Nimiipuu—also known as the Nez Perce people—are deeply rooted in the landscape they have called home for millennia. By sharing stories in the Nimiipuu language, Angel helps students and teachers reclaim their cultural identity for future generations.

The Alaska mountain range is inaccessible to most people due to its ruggedness and remoteness. But for Klara Maisch and Leighan Falley, the harsh wilderness is their inspiration to create art and share Alaska’s beauty with others through paint.

In Oakridge, Oregon, a group of volunteers led by Editor Doug Bates, coaxed out of retirement, began an online nonprofit journalism site after the local newspaper closed down.

In Monmouth, Oregon, Darryl Thomas and Valerie Bergman run Rainbow Dance Theatre, a modern dance company that incorporates lighting and projection effects into one-of-a-kind performances.

At Face Rock View Point in Bandon, Oregon, Denny Dyke and his team of volunteers draw labyrinths in the sand. The circles in the sand have helped many locals and tourists find peace and purpose during life’s uncertainties.

Local artists and health care workers would come together to deliver relief, hope and inspiration — all through the healing power of creativity.

When the pandemic stopped live musical performances, Alaska native Caitlin Warbelow created a virtual stage to support traditional musicians in sharing their love of music with a global online community. One musician really can make a difference.

Heart of Community focuses on arts and culture outside the big city. This is a comeback story about how artists have weathered the pandemic storm to keep the arts beating in rural communities throughout the Northwest and West. The show presents stories of resiliency and hope, told through the voices and sounds of those rising to the challenge.

The pandemic could have easily dropped the curtain on its performances and activities, but the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association (CGOA) had other ideas. Rallying an entire creative community, CGOA members met the challenge head on, not only finding fresh ways to perform, but also creating a sense of togetherness even when far apart.