Welcome to Twice 5 Miles Radio, where the art of conversation thrives. I'm your host, James Navé. Kelly Pasholk, the talented book designer and creative writing facilitator, is joining me today. Kelly brings a unique blend of artistry and expertise to every project she touches, and she's here to share the fascinating journey behind Taos Portraits II, a visually stunning art book capturing 60 prominent Taos artists through the lens of photographer Paul O'Connor.

In the first part of our conversation, Kelly recounts the intricate process of creating Taos Portraits II, from conceptualizing the book to watching the first pages roll off the presses in a specialized printing house in China. We also delve into plans for the book's grand launch event, scheduled for June 6, 2025, in Taos—a celebration we hope will be the highlight of the summer, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories.

In the interview's second half, Kelly offers invaluable insights into book publishing. With decades of experience in graphic arts and a passion for nurturing creativity, she discusses her unique 10-day intensive retreats in Taos, where aspiring authors develop a committed writing process and leave with the tools and momentum to bring their stories to life.

Kelly's story reflects her deep commitment to helping others shine, whether through the pages of an art book or personalized creative services. From her early days in the printing industry to building her solar-powered home in Taos, she's a testament to the transformative power of creativity and craftsmanship.

This engaging and comfortable conversation offers a wealth of inspiration for anyone passionate about storytelling, publishing, or the creative process. Tune in to hear Kelly's wisdom, anecdotes, and plans for one of the Taos' most anticipated summer 2025 art events. Enjoy the show.

Crafting Legacy: The Making of Taos Portraits II with book designer Kelly Pasholk

Provocative Conversations from Twice 5 Miles Radio is a podcast devoted to candid, often surprising exchanges with artists, thinkers, and cultural instigators who speak from the core. Each episode dives beneath the surface to explore the stories and questions that shape our lives.

I’m James Navé—poet, storyteller, educator, and longtime creative collaborator. With an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and decades of teaching experience across the globe, I help writers and performers tap into their authentic voices through public speaking, creative writing, and the Imaginative Storm method, which I co-developed with Allegra Huston.

My most recent book, 100 Days: A Poetic Memoir After Cancer (3: A Taos Press), documents a hundred days of healing and poetic reckoning. I’m also co-author of Write What You Don’t Know and How to Read for an Audience—practical guides for anyone seeking to speak and write with more truth and power.

I’ve directed festivals, hosted literary salons, taught with Julia Cameron, and memorized over 600 poems. I still believe in the power of a well-told story, the light through stained glass, and the open road with nothing but a podcast and a windshield full of stars.

New tracks tagged #BookDesignExcellence