Art, Flow, and the Middle of Nowh...

Art, Flow, and the Middle of Nowhere | Jennifer Rife on Creativity and Land Installations | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 61

iNNOVATION Insights Podcast by Dr. Eulanda A. Sanders
S5 · E61
Aug 14, 2025
01:05:17

Episode notes

What does it mean to create art in the “middle of nowhere”?

In this captivating episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders reconnects with Jennifer Rife, a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans fiber art, basketry, photography, and site-specific land installations. Jennifer shares her winding creative journey—from her childhood in Lamar, Colorado, to her years as a graphic designer, exhibition coordinator, and creator of thought-provoking outdoor installations.

Jennifer discusses her concept of the “middle of nowhere,” how it connects to geography and personal experience, and why she documents her work using GPS coordinates. She dives into the transformative power of the flow state, the importance of curiosity, and how unexpected inspirations—like early childhood memories, caves with petroglyphs, and the Spiral Jetty—have shaped her artistic vision.

⚫This episode is a must-listen for artists, educators, and innovators interested in:

◾Tapping into flow for creative breakthroughs

◾The process behind creating and photographing land installations

◾Blending traditional artistry with experimental approaches

◾Finding inspiration in geography, memory, and everyday objects

◾Encouraging audiences to ask questions rather than seek answers

Jennifer’s advice to emerging artists? Be bold, embrace failure, and follow the ideas that feel “ripe.”

⚫Connect with Jennifer

◾Website: https://artinthemiddleofnowhere.com/

◾Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WYjennifer.rife

◾Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artinthemiddleofnowhere/

⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact

Keywords

design
innovation
mindfullness
narrative
insights
community
sustainability
interdisciplinary
education
learning
textile design
textiles
art
fiber art
fiber artist
exhibitions
juried exhibition
creativity
interactive art
leadership
artist
maker
textile art
textile artist
visual art
identity
photography
installation art
installation artist
environment
environmental art
Wyoming
Colorado