“I think the thing that makes something a piece of artwork is the intention that an artist imbues into it.”- John Wilhelm

Want to deepen your understanding of sound preservation and creative storytelling? Discover the intersection of art and environment with audio engineer John Wilhelm as we explore Wyoming's Creative Economies and Innovation. In this episode, John Wilhelm discusses his involvement in various musical endeavors in Laramie, Wyoming, showcasing the diverse creative talent present in the state. His project, the Audio Library of the West, emphasizes the importance of creativity and innovation in preserving the sonic identity of Wyoming. This exploration sheds light on the unique and vibrant creative economies within the state.

My special guest is John Wilhelm

John Wilhelm, an accomplished sound artist, musician, and audio engineer, is based in Laramie, Wyoming. His work has earned him the prestigious 2024 Wyoming Innovation Partnership ArtsWork Investing in Wyoming's Creative Economies award. As the creative sound artist behind the Audio Library of the West, an online hub for western field sound recordings and audio-based art, John's creative endeavor lies in the fusion of sound preservation. With a background in theatrical sound design and a deep-seated passion for music, John's journey as an audio engineer reflects his dedication to exploring the intricate relationship between art and the environment. His innovative approach to field recording encapsulates his commitment to preserving, discovering and sharing the distinct sounds of the West, offering a captivating auditory experience. John is a founding member of the Garrett Guitar Quartet, performing classical and contemporary music for the guitar.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the thriving creative economies and innovation in Wyoming, uncovering unique insights and inspiration from the many creative people living in Wyoming.

• Discover the pivotal role of audio engineering in music production, gaining a deeper understanding of the technical and artistic aspects that shape the music you listen to.

• Get an exclusive overview of the Audio Library of the West project, delving into the rich cultural and environmental tapestry of the Western region through sound.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Wyoming Humanities Council - For more information about the podcast and its episodes, visit ThinkWY.org to subscribe and never miss a show.

• High Iron - Check out the website highiron.org to learn more about the public art project celebrating the history of labor of the transcontinental railroad and the people who built the railroad.

• Audio Library of the West on Instagram - Follow the Audio Library of the West on Instagram for future news and updates about the project.

• Bandcamp - Visit Bandcamp, a music retail platform utilized by independent musicians, to explore and purchase high-quality digital downloads of sound recordings and support independent artists.

• Portable Recording Equipment - Stay tuned for updates on the launch of the Audio Library of the West in the fall of this year and learn how to participate with portable recording equipment and sending it around Wyoming.

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