Arts Specials
You can view the works at an area art exhibit, hear the music of our renowned orchestras and so much more.
2021
A Polka Christmas with The Chardon Polka Band
The Chardon Polka Band offers a zany and heartfelt holiday program.
Nick Cave, Summit Lake: Heard
A project by artist Nick Cave celebrated inclusion for Akron’s Summit Lake neighborhood.
Polka Across America
The Chardon Polka Band celebrates summer with a fun virtual road trip.
2020
Studio C Sessions
Studio C Sessions performances capture artists and audiences connecting in the closest of confines. 2015-Current.
The Arts & COVID-19: What Now?
This digital project examines the creative ways that artists and arts organizations are staying relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Premiered in 2020.
2019
Ken Nordine: Video for the Ear
This local production profiles renowned voice-over and recording artist Ken Nordine.
2017
The Angie Haze Project Presents: The Bigger Picture
Rising star Angie Haze brings her dynamic musical talents to the Miller South School for the Performing Arts in Akron. Premiered in 2017.
2013
Joseph O’Sickey: The Art of Life
In Joseph O’Sickey: The Art of Life, we visit the artist’s Ohio home and garden that serve as the inspiration for many of his paintings. Premiered in 2013.
2012
Paul Stankard Glass at Akron Art Museum
This documentary captures the essence of Stankard's intricate glass art objects and features discussion with him about artistry. Premiered in 2012.
2011
Hammer on Steel
The history and heart of steel drum music and its journey from tropical Trinidad to The University of Akron’s music school. Premiered in 2011.
Kaleidoscope Quilts at the Akron Art Museum
Showcases the Akron Art Museum's exhibition "Kaleidoscope Quilts: The Art of Paula Nadelstern." Premiered in 2011.
2010
Dean Mitchell at the Canton Museum of Art
This Western Reserve PBS special features Dean Mitchell’s exhibit, “Space, People and Places.” Premiered in 2010.
Detroit Disassembled at the Akron Art Museum
This Western Reserve Public Media production features Andrew Moore’s exhibit. Premiered in 2010.
Pattern ID at the Akron Art Museum
Visit the Akron Art Museum's Pattern ID exhibit that showcases how culturally diverse artists use pattern and dress to create their art. Premiered in 2010.
Who Shot Rock & Roll: Akron Art Museum
Go behind the scenes of the Akron Art Museum's exhibition, Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 to the Present. Premiered in 2010.
2009
Along Water Street at the Akron Art Museum
Columbus artist Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson’s exhibit at the Akron Art Museum is featured in this Western Reserve PBS production. Premiered in 2009.
William Wegman: Fay at the Akron Art Museum
Western Reserve PBS visits the Akron Art Museum to showcase the talent, humor and artistry of William Wegman. Premiered in 2009
Gospel Meets Symphony: Celebrating 16 Years!
PBS Western Reserve chronicles the history of the Akron Symphony Orchestra’s annual Gospel Meets Symphony event. Premiered in 2009.
Gospel Meets Symphony: Let Freedom Ring!
Highlights of the Akron Symphony Orchestra’s 2009 Gospel Meets Symphony concert with Maestro Christopher Wilkins. Premiered in 2009.
It’s Close at Akron Art Museum
This Western Reserve Public Media production showcases Chuck Close and his art. Premiered in 2009.
2008
Clyde Singer: An American Artist
Western Reserve PBS presents a documentary that celebrates the centennial birthday year of Ohio artist Clyde Singer. Premiered in 2008.
Jean-Pierre Gauthier: Machines at Play
Western Reserve PBS and the Akron Art Museum present Montreal artist Jean-Pierre Gauthier’s ingenious kinetic sculptures. Premiered in 2008.
Radio Daze: Cleveland’s FM Air Wars
Follow the dramatic rise of Cleveland’s FM rock scene, from its early days to its rise to a billion-dollar entertainment industry. Premiered in 2008.
2007
Norman Rockwell at the Akron Art Museum
This production features a gallery walk of the exhibit, “American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell” and interviews with special guests. Premiered in 2007.
2006
A Canton Symphony Orchestra Celebration
The magical connection between the Canton Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Gerhardt Zimmermann is told in this PBS Western Reserve production. Premiered in 2006.
2005
If You're Not Dead, Play!
This production documents the second wave of Akron garage bands that continued in the tradition of the Akron sound that began with bands like Devo. Premiered in 2005.
Transcending Time—The Story of Potter and Mellen
This documentary features the history of Potter and Mellen, Inc., a landmark metalworking and custom jewelry studio in Cleveland. Premiered in 2005.
2003
It’s Everything, and Then It’s Gone
Take a look back at the Akron "garage band" movement of the 1970s and 80s that launched the careers of several rock bands, including Devo. Premiered in 2003.
2000
Interactive Art: The New Age of Holography
This production reveals the art and science of holograms by touring a unique exhibit at Canton Museum of Art by holographic artist Douglas Tyler. Premiered in 2000.
Lasting Impressions: The Wendell August Forge Story
Discover the history of the famous Wendell August Forge and meet the men and women who pound out their living in aluminum. Premiered in 2000.