The Trek (independent publication)
Working Art Into a Thru-Hike: Inside the ATC and CDTC Artist Residencies with Mallory Weston & Leslie Boyd (BPR #350)
Why It Matters
The conversation illustrates how artistic expression can enrich the outdoor experience and foster deeper connections to protected trail ecosystems, offering listeners fresh perspectives on combining creativity with adventure. For hikers and makers alike, the episode provides actionable advice on affordable thru‑hiking and showcases emerging opportunities to support and engage with trail stewardship through artist residencies.
Key Takeaways
- •Artists-in-residence blend metalwork with long-distance hiking
- •Residency offers trail studios, community outreach, public installations
- •Metalsmiths focus on body‑centric jewelry, punk‑inspired identity
- •Teaching provides stable income, freeing artists from sales pressure
- •Thru‑hike under $5,000 possible using gear discounts
Pulse Analysis
The latest Backpacker Radio episode spotlights the inaugural artist‑in‑residence programs on the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) and Appalachian Trail (AT). Mallory Weston and Leslie Boyd, both metalsmiths and longtime thru‑hikers, explain how the residencies turn remote trail sections into moving studios, allowing them to create site‑specific metalwork that engages hikers and local communities. By integrating art with the physical challenges of long‑distance trekking, the programs broaden the cultural footprint of America’s great trails and inspire other creators to consider the wilderness as a canvas.
Both guests trace their artistic roots to rigorous MFA training—Weston in jewelry and metal, Boyd in glass and hemp crafts—before pivoting to conceptual, body‑focused work. Their conversation reveals how a punk‑inspired identity fuels a hands‑on approach to jewelry, while teaching at the university level supplies a reliable paycheck and a platform to mentor emerging makers. They stress the importance of professional‑practice courses, noting that financial literacy and fair‑wage standards empower artists to prioritize experimentation over market demands.
Beyond creative theory, the episode delivers actionable tips for budget‑conscious hikers. Listeners learn that a complete CDT thru‑hike can stay under $5,000 by leveraging discounts on Topo Athletic footwear and Mountain Smith packs, each saving roughly $1,000 in gear costs. The hosts also promote an upcoming Denver area meetup, encouraging community building among trail enthusiasts. Finally, they invite fans to support the show via Patreon, highlighting how listener contributions enable ad‑free content and experimental projects. This blend of art, economics, and community makes the episode a valuable resource for anyone looking to merge creative practice with long‑distance adventure.
Episode Description
In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, Chaunce and Elise are joined by Mallory Weston and Leslie Boyd. Mallory and Leslie are best friends, thru-hikers, hiking partners, artists, metalsmiths, teachers, and most recently, two inaugural artists-in-residence for the CDTC and ATC. The conversation goes into all things art, including how to best pursue your artistic passions on trail, what exactly an artist-in-residence does, their creative processes, and much more. ...
The post Working Art into a Thru-Hike: Inside the ATC and CDTC Artist Residencies with Mallory Weston & Leslie Boyd (BPR #350) appeared first on The Trek.
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