This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Parks & Arts" Show features members of Cracked Nut Creatives - Carlin Ma, Joshua Nakazawa, and Sam Paris - the recent National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artists-in-residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Blending classical music, multimedia storytelling, and environmental awareness, the artists explore the powerful relationship between music, nature, and place. Through their residency experience, they share how volcanic landscapes, natural soundscapes, and cultural heritage influence artistic interpretation and creative expression.

The conversation highlights how engaging with nature can deepen artistic perspective, expand sensory awareness, and foster empathy — an essential element in all art forms. From composing and performing music inspired by the environment to creating immersive multimedia projects, these artists demonstrate how national parks serve as living studios for innovation and storytelling.

This episode also underscores the importance of preserving both natural and cultural heritage, and how artist residencies play a vital role in connecting audiences to the landscapes that inspire creative work.

Yūgen (幽玄) is a Japanese aesthetic concept describing a profound, mysterious beauty — something deeply felt, but difficult to fully express in words.

The piece is built from five separate cello parts, all performed live by a single cellist (Joshua Nakazawa). Using a looper pedal, each layer is recorded and stacked in real time, gradually transforming one cello into a full five-part cello harmony. The final melodic voice unfolds above the layers, creating an immersive and cinematic soundscape.