Episode #20

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In this episode:

Art Along the Mohawk: Artist Tim Pryputniewicz

We visit Artisan’s Corner in Clinton to talk with local artist Tim Pryputniewitz about his work, his techniques, and what inspires him. Tim explains how years of creating detailed pen-and-ink commissions have taught him the importance of accuracy, while also giving him opportunities to explore a looser, more expressive style in his personal artwork. He discusses combining pen and ink with watercolor, his growing collection of paintings made using Utica Coffee grounds, and why he enjoys depicting older buildings with character and personality. Tim also talks about working both in his home studio and on location, where he can sketch almost anywhere. Learn more about his artwork, his creative approach, and where you can find his original pieces in Clinton and Hamilton. See Tim’s work at The Artisans’ Corner in Clinton, NY and at Retrospect in Hamilton, NY

Road Trip Along the Mohawk: Sharon Springs

Brought to you by The Black Cat Cafe in Sharon Springs

Adelphi Paper Hangings

We visit Adelphi Paper Hangings in Sharon Springs, where one of America’s rarest traditional crafts is still practiced today. Michele Farwell explains how historic wallpaper patterns are recreated from original samples using hand-carved wood blocks, with each color applied individually through a meticulous block-printing process. Learn how this centuries-old technique is used to restore historic homes and museums across the country, including Mount Vernon, Monticello, and the White House. We also explore the stories behind several historic wallpaper designs.

Maggie’s Minute: Milkweed

We spend time in the garden with native plant gardener Maggie Reilly and explore the many varieties of milkweed and learn why they’re so important for monarch butterflies. Maggie explains the differences between common milkweed, swamp milkweed, and bright orange butterfly weed, including where each grows best and when they bloom. She also shares practical gardening tips, from choosing the right milkweed for your yard to why these hardy native plants often bounce back even after being eaten by rabbits or deer. Milkweed is one of the most valuable plants you can add to your landscape for pollinators. Visit Wild Ones Mohawk Valley to learn more about adding native plants to your yard

Music Along the Mohawk: Mark Werchowski

Brought to you by Big Apple Music in New Hartford

We catch up with Mohawk Valley singer-songwriter Mark Werchowski at The Lucky Dog Bistro in Clinton. A two-time ASCAP Popular Award winner, Mark reflects on a music career that has taken him from local bands and Los Angeles stages to sharing the spotlight with national touring acts. He talks about growing up in the Utica area, teaching music in the Utica City School District, and spending more than 25 years giving private lessons while continuing to write and perform. Mark also discusses digitizing his extensive music catalog, the enduring popularity of songs like “Christmas in the Valley” and “Take Care of Your Friends,” and his latest goal of placing his music in film and television. Listen to Mark’s music here: werchowski.com

MV Soundscape with Matt Perry: Diversity of Forest Edge Habitat, featuring the Indigo Bunting

Matt tells us about the rich wildlife of the Mohawk Valley’s forest edge during late July. Learn why this transition zone between meadow and woodland provides ideal habitat for nesting birds, including the brilliant indigo bunting, the elusive veery, chestnut-sided warblers, and American goldfinches. Along the way, discover how the indigo bunting’s striking blue color is created without blue pigment and how these remarkable birds navigate their long migrations by the stars. It’s a peaceful midsummer journey into one of the valley’s most vibrant natural habitats.