In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Maija Kellner-Rode, a queer artist, dancer, and mentor who has made it her mission to foster healing and connection through creativity. Maija shares her journey from launching her nationally distributed art brand, Maija Rebecca Hand Drawn, to mentoring youth across Oregon through expressive arts.
Together, Aaron and Maija explore the idea of a “third place”—a welcoming, non-commercial space where both teens and adults can gather without pressure to spend money or perform. They dive into the role of art in community-building, the growing creative culture in Bend, and the vision behind Maija’s latest venture: The Open Arts Center. Co-founded with Claire Brislin, this new nonprofit aims to provide free after-school programming for teens and accessible creative space for adult artists alike.
Tune in to hear how Maija’s passion for mentorship, art, and inclusivity is shaping a new future for creative expression in Central Oregon.
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