From First Day Hiker to AIA Insider! ✨
We are thrilled to feature a guest blog post from one of our newest volunteers, Brian Bishoff. Brian kicked off his 2026 by conquering our First Annual First Day Hike, and he hasn’t stopped exploring since! When he isn’t holding down the fort at the Welcome Center and Art Gallery, he’s out on the trails exploring the mountain trying decide what his favorite sculpture is. Say hi if you spot him out there or in the welcome center, and check out his inaugural blog post right here! 👇

A Volunteer Point of View – Andres Institute of Art

So this is the first episode of a blog for the Andres Institute of Art. My wife and I first hiked here during the COVID shutdowns, when I was searching for new places to enjoy the outdoors. We’ve always loved museums and sculpture gardens, and this place offered both in a really unique way. Naturally, we came back.

On New Year’s Day this year, we joined the annual New Year’s Day Hike, which was truly wonderful. I met Eric and Kristie, and of course I had to ask if they needed volunteers—and they certainly did. I started helping out this winter and have really enjoyed volunteering here. I get to meet interesting visitors and artists from both near and far.

I have a broad interest in nature, culture, and what makes humans happy. So I’ll mostly focus on how art, music, and time in nature are good for us—mentally and physically. There’s significant research to back this up, and most people have lived experiences that confirm it. At the Andres Institute of Art, you can have an adventure in both nature and culture—or you could say sculpture and forest. Natural beauty and human creativity are even better together.

And let’s not forget that community and creativity are deeply intertwined. Music is one of the most universal ways people connect. Singing and dancing together has always helped humans feel part of something larger. Here’s the psycho‑spiritual angle: all these things—especially in combination—help us get out of our heads and feel connected to everything around us. Our concert series is one way to feel those vibes, step away from everyday life, and connect with others who are enjoying the same groove. In another post, I’ll talk more about the research behind why creativity and nature make us feel better and more connected to something greater.

And hey—don’t forget to check out our Iron Melt and our concert series. This really is a happening place! If you’ve been here and loved it, tell your friends, come again, and donate if you can.
Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and be sure to check out the Art Gallery and our Live at the Andres music series in the Big Bear Lodge, featuring both local and international acts!