The Truth In This Art - An Arts & Culture Podcast

In this episode of Truth In This Art, host Rob Lee interviews Lauren Castellana, a Baltimore-based photographer and the Director of Photographic Services at Towson University. Lauren's award-winning work has shaped the photographic identity of the university for over seven years, and she is graduating with an MFA this spring. Her love of lighting and cinema shapes her art, creating complex environmental portraits that verge on the surreal. Tune in to hear more about Lauren's work and her passion for teaching lighting classes and workshops.https://events.towson.edu/event/mfa_castellana#.Y9mYfxZOkWMThe Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us as host Rob Lee interviews Kory Bailey, the Chief Ecosystem and Relationship Officer at UpSurge Baltimore, an Angel Investor, and a devoted father. Kory is on a mission to connect people and organizations in the tech sector to create more opportunities for job creation and growth, especially for underestimated founders. In this episode, Kory shares his vision for Baltimore's Equitech future and discusses his work cultivating regional and national relationships to support the thriving innovation economy where everyone belongs.Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Kory Bailey - Guest The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of Truth In This Art, host Rob Lee interviews Siti Lu, an animation director, storyboard artist, and animator from Los Angeles. Siti shares her experiences studying character animation at CalArts and her journey to becoming a storyboard artist at Cartoon Network and Netflix Animation. She discusses her work on popular shows such as We Baby Bears and Close Enough. Listeners will gain insight into the world of animation and Siti's creative process.Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Siti Lu - Guest ★ Support this podcast ★

Megan E. L. Klink is a digital artist, independent curator, and creative director based in Washington, D.C. She graduated with an MFA in Curatorial Practice from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) and a B.A. in Art History with a concentration in Global Contemporary Art from Washington College. Klink currently works in creative marketing at VERSUS, a multi-vertical lifestyle brand with best-in-class hospitality venues, a cutting-edge marketing agency and an innovative venture arm. She uses her creative background to implement innovative digital and physical marketing campaigns in the D.C. and New York areas. Through her current work, she aims to create engaging and cohesive branding strategies under the VERSUS umbrella. In her free time, Klink continues her art practice and intends to continue independent curatorial work in the future. Both her personal and curatorial works explore the idea of a postcontemporary art world, an era she believes we already inhibit. Klink's work aims to create a non-conforming space for artists in a rapidly-changing digital society. In this episode of The Truth In This Art, Megan E.L. Klink discusses her experiences growing up around art, shifting to arts education, and her work with VERSUS, a multi-vertical lifestyle brand with best-in-class hospitality venues, a cutting-edge marketing agency and an innovative venture arm.Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

Heather Ossandon-Chapman creates ceramics that reflect her distinct background. Throughout her career, she has traveled through Asia, Central America, Europe and the United States. These experiences have cultivated techniques and methods that are incorporated into her studio practice. Focusing on functional pottery, and sculptural still lifes; traditional practices and everyday objects are the spotlight of her work. Ossandon operates HEOS Ceramics in Baltimore, MD. She has shown her artworks both nationally and internationally.Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

In today's episode of the Truth In This Art Beyond: Philadelphia, host Rob Lee interviews Jennifer Zwilling, Curator and Director of Artistic Programs at The Clay Studio. Together, they discuss Jennifer's career, the art of curation and what makes Philadelphia's artist unique. Learn more about The Clay Studio Here: https://www.theclaystudio.org/Creators & Guests Jennifer Zwilling - Guest Rob Lee - Host The Clay Studio - Guest Welcome to the Truth In This Art Beyond: Philadelphia! Philadelphia one of the foremost creative regions in the world and this series of interviews was sparked by my curiosity about the arts and culture of the city. Subscribe Through Your Favorite Podcast PlatformApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts This interview was recorded in Philadelphia, PA between September 2022-September 2023. ★ Support this podcast ★

Ara Koh was born in Seoul, South Korea from a fashion designer mother, and an industrial designer father. She received her BFA in Ceramics and Glass from Hongik University, Seoul, South Korea in 2018, and was an exchange student at California State University, Long Beach in 2016. Ara graduated with an MFA in Ceramic Art at New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University in 2020. Her works are installations claiming space. The intensity of the labor, repetitiveness, and palliative obsessiveness manifested in her sculpture brings a fresh reveal to the ageless themes of body, architecture-shelter and landscape.Her works had been exhibited in South Korea and in the United States. Ara received numerous awards including the Minister of Foreign Affairs Honor by the Korean government. Her works are collected by Alfred Ceramic Art Museum, Daekyo Culture Foundation, Winell Corporation in Korea, and many personal collectors. As an educator, she teaches at Maryland Institute College of Art, George Washington University, and American University. Ara Koh currently lives and works in Washington DC.Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join host Rob Lee as he interviews Crystal I. Berger, the founder of EBO, an all-inclusive booking platform for media appearances. Crystal is a media-tech entrepreneur with over a decade of experience at FOX News Channel as a Senior Booking Producer and National News Feature Host. In this episode of Truth in This Art, Crystal discusses her journey in increasing on-air diversity by 85% while managing 1,300 local stations nationwide. She also talks about her technology, EBO, which addresses the booking and DEI challenges publicists and professional conferences face when seeking talent for internal and external content offerings. Crystal shares her experiences as a featured speaker and host at various events, including the United Nations, Business Insider, the Congressional Black Caucus, and AMC Networks. The podcast also covers Crystal's book, "Be Extraordinary," which explores how embracing purpose propels a life of prosperity. Tune in to this inspiring episode to learn more about Crystal's journey and the impact of EBO.Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Crystal I. Berger - Guest The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Nani Ferreira-Mathews, an author, freelance journalist, and community organizer, and a worker-owner at Thread Coffee Roasters in Baltimore, Maryland. With a bachelor's degree in journalism from Georgia State University, Nani started her career in coffee in a small Brooklyn cafe in 2011. Over the years, she has worked for various coffee roasting companies, learning about coffee production and sales, before joining Thread Coffee Roasters as their Sales and Marketing lead.In this episode, Nani shares her journey in the coffee industry, her passion for standing in solidarity with different social movements around the world, and the importance of fair trade organic coffee. As a musician, writer, and activist in her free time, Nani has released several albums and is a frequent contributor to Roast Magazine.Join us as we dive deep into Thread Coffee's journey from forming among friends to becoming the in-house coffee roaster for Red Emma's vegan restaurant/cafe and bookstore. Learn about their expansion into wholesale coffee business, cafe build-outs, and their commitment to their farmer partners. We will also discuss the release of their first ready-to-drink beverage, nitro cold brew canned coffee, and the recognition they have received from Food and Wine Magazine, Bon Appetit, Sprudge, Daily Coffee News, and Roast Magazine.Don't miss this episode, filled with valuable insights into the coffee industry, fair trade practices, and community organizing. The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

In today's episode of the Truth In This Art, host Rob Lee interviews Rafi Perez, an award-winning contemporary artist,. the author of The Rogue Artist's Survival Guide, which is part of The Rogue Artist Series. This book offers an honest and unconventional approach to demystifying marketing for artists. Through his own journey, he provides the tools and mindset to navigate the art world and create a successful career. Together, they discuss Rafi's decision to leave his corporate career and pursue art, the importance of having a 'creative playground' and The Rogue Artist's Survival Guide. Learn more about Rafi Here: https://rafiandklee.com/author/rafiwashere/ https://ads.chtbl.com/imp_track/ef9538d5-de85-4b2b-85ef-b32c0da40aa2;ord={cb};request_ts={timestamp};user_agent={UserAgent};ip_address={IP};listener_id={listenerId};episode_id=${parameters['awEpisodeId']!};podcast_id=${parameters['awCollectionId']!} ★ Support this podcast ★

Krishna Bala Shenoi is a visual artist who spends his days working on illustrations and exploring film. His artwork, spanning a variety of styles, has accompanied children’s literature in picture books and short story collections from Tulika, Scholastic, Penguin, Karadi and Speaking Tiger, with projects from other publishers currently in development. Additionally, Krishna is the portrait-ist for Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso is a weekly series of intimate conversations with artists, activists, and politicians. His work in film and animation, passions he pursued at Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology, has been recognized by the likes of Roger Ebert and Steven Spielberg. He lives in Bangalore, where he plans to continue contributing to children’s storytelling, imbuing his work with gentleness and a sense of wonder. [Neev Academy]In this episode of The Truth In This Art, Krishna Bala Shenoi discusses his work Children's book illustration, being responsible for the portraits of some of the biggest names in arts & culture and the most challenging aspects of his creative process. Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Krishna Bala Shenoi - Guest https://ads.chtbl.com/imp_track/ef9538d5-de85-4b2b-85ef-b32c0da40aa2;ord={cb};request_ts={timestamp};user_agent={UserAgent};ip_address={IP};listener_id={listenerId};episode_id=${parameters['awEpisodeId']!};podcast_id=${parameters['awCollectionId']!} ★ Support this podcast ★

Francis Gautier, grew up living between Providence, Rhode Island and New York City. His family spent their weekdays in RI and the weekends in NYC. From a very young age, he fell in love with art in many forms but particularly the urban graffiti street art. Francis began emulating the graffiti he would observe as well as photographing everything he could within a cameras reach.Ultimately, “I thought I was going to be a lifetime graffiti writer” says Gautier. However while studying for his B.A. in Human Services and earning a minor in Fine Arts from the University of Rhode Island, he began to believe in the transformational power of art and how it brings people together. Francis truly believes in the universal power of art as well as the immense positivity art contributes to the universe and it was during those formidable years he began exploring many forms of art while always maintaining a touch of “street style”.Following graduation from URI 07′, joining the Air National Guard and working in a children’s hospital full time for roughly 8 years as a behavioral specialist/art therapist, Francis decided to go full time with chasing his dream of being a full time artist.In today's episode of the Truth In This Art, Frankie Gautier discusses his career, failing in love with street art at a young age and his work intersecting with art therapy. Learn more about Frankie's work here: https://francisgautierart.com/about/ https://ads.chtbl.com/imp_track/ef9538d5-de85-4b2b-85ef-b32c0da40aa2;ord={cb};request_ts={timestamp};user_agent={UserAgent};ip_address={IP};listener_id={listenerId};episode_id=${parameters['awEpisodeId']!};podcast_id=${parameters['awCollectionId']!} ★ Support this podcast ★

Sheryl Oring is Dean of the School of Art at University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Sheryl Oring examines critical social issues through projects that incorporate old and new media to tell stories, examine public opinion and foster open exchange. Using tools typically employed by journalists (the camera, the typewriter, the pen, the interview and the archive) she builds on experience in her former profession to create installations, performances, artist books and internet-based works that address themes of citizenship, free expression, first amendment rights, story-telling and activism through art.In this episode of The Truth In This Art Beyond: Philadelphia, Sheryl Oring discusses the story being her works 'Writer's Block" and "I Wish To Say", the main driver behind her work, and what she aims to accomplish in her role as Dean of the School of Art at the University of the Arts. Learn more about Sheryl Oring:  http://www.sheryloring.org/Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Sheryl Oring - Guest UniversityoftheArts - Guest Welcome to the Truth In This Art Beyond: Philadelphia! Philadelphia one of the foremost creative regions in the world and this series of interviews was sparked by my curiosity about the arts and culture of the city. Subscribe Through Your Favorite Podcast PlatformApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts This interview was recorded in Philadelphia, PA between September 2022-September 2023. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, host Rob Lee sits down with Nick Tofani, an illustrator hailing from Massachusetts whose art is centered around the realms of horror and gaming. Join Rob as he delves into Nick's creative process, discussing his inspirations and techniques for bringing his chilling visions to life. Along the way, they explore the intersection between art and fear, and the unique challenges and rewards of creating illustrations that are both visually stunning and viscerally terrifying. Whether you're a fan of horror, gaming, or just great art, this conversation is sure to offer plenty of insight and inspiration. So, tune in and discover the dark and captivating world of Nick Tofani's illustrations.Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Nick Tofani - Guest https://ads.chtbl.com/imp_track/ef9538d5-de85-4b2b-85ef-b32c0da40aa2;ord={cb};request_ts={timestamp};user_agent={UserAgent};ip_address={IP};listener_id={listenerId};episode_id=${parameters['awEpisodeId']!};podcast_id=${parameters['awCollectionId']!} ★ Support this podcast ★

Join host Rob Lee as he sits down with the talented Liza Donnelly, an award-winning cartoonist and author. In this episode, Liza shares her experience as a cartoonist for The New Yorker and the inspiration behind her work. They delve into the history of women in cartooning and the unique challenges they have faced in the industry. Liza also discusses her latest book, Funny Ladies: The New Yorker's Greatest Women Cartoonists and Their Cartoons, offering an insightful look at the work of some of the most talented women in the field. Whether you're a fan of cartooning, women's history, or simply enjoy a good laugh, this conversation is sure to be both informative and entertaining. So, tune in and discover the fascinating world of Liza Donnelly and her remarkable career in cartooning.photo-credit-Elena-Rossini-Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Liza Donnelly - Guest https://ads.chtbl.com/imp_track/ef9538d5-de85-4b2b-85ef-b32c0da40aa2;ord={cb};request_ts={timestamp};user_agent={UserAgent};ip_address={IP};listener_id={listenerId};episode_id=${parameters['awEpisodeId']!};podcast_id=${parameters['awCollectionId']!} ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to this episode of the Rob Lee Interviews podcast! In this installment, Rob sits down with Ariel Barbosa, a community organizer, artist, and capoeirista who is proud to call both Baltimore and Bahia, Brasil her homes. Ariel is launching a new organization called "A Gente," which translates to "the people" in Brazilian Portuguese. Through this organization, Ariel hopes to broaden our understanding of what "us" means, and to reconnect the African diaspora through events and art spaces led by artists from Baltimore and Bahia.Join Rob and Ariel as they discuss the inspiration behind "A Gente," the cultural connections between Baltimore and Bahia, and the importance of community organizing and art in bringing people together. Whether you're a fan of capoeira, interested in learning more about the African diaspora, or simply curious about how art can create meaningful connections, you won't want to miss this fascinating conversation. So tune in, and get ready to be inspired by Ariel's passion for bringing people together through art and community! The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

In today's episode of the Truth In This Art, host Rob Lee interviews writer and artist from Baltimore Nat Raum.  Together, they discuss Nat’s photography and writing, Darkside Collective and founding Fifth Wheel Press and much more. Creators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Nat Raum - Guest The Truth in This Art podcast's current season is sponsored by The Gutierrez Memorial Fund and The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, both of which are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Baltimore and beyond. The Gutierrez Memorial Fund focuses on supporting artists and art organizations that serve Maryland communities, while The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation invests in innovative individuals, projects, and ideas. We appreciate their support in making this season happen. ★ Support this podcast ★

In today's episode of the Truth In This Art Beyond: Philadelphia, host Rob Lee interviews Marielle 'Elle' Stankiewicz, owner of Sweet Peach Studios. Together, they discuss Elle's shift from a near decade registered dental assistant career to becoming Philly's tooth fairy, using referrals and Instagram to develop her client base and much more. Learn more about Sweet Peach Studios Here: https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeachgems/Creators & Guests Marielle Stankiewicz - Guest Rob Lee - Host Welcome to the Truth In This Art Beyond: Philadelphia! Philadelphia one of the foremost creative regions in the world and this series of interviews was sparked by my curiosity about the arts and culture of the city. Subscribe Through Your Favorite Podcast PlatformApple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts This interview was recorded in Philadelphia, PA between September 2022-September 2023. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of "The Truth in This Art," host Rob Lee sits down with Melissa Hunter Davis, the founder of Sugarcane Magazine. Sugarcane is an online journal dedicated to the art of Africa and the African diaspora, covering everything from literature to performance. Melissa is a creative entrepreneur with a passion for all things related to African arts and culture. Tune in to hear about her journey starting Sugarcane, the importance of representation in the arts, and her insights on the thriving creative scene within the African diaspora. Whether you're an avid art enthusiast or simply curious about the intersection of culture and creativity, this episode is not to be missed.About Sugarcane MagazineSugarcane Magazine is a Black art and culture media company. Black culture is the most recognized culture in the world and influences every corner of humanity. With the rise in Black visual art along with music, dance, design, and literature, Sugarcane Magazine controls the cultural currency of Black people. We connect thousands of readers globally with the world’s leading visual and performing artists, with a focus on making the most popular and imitated culture accessible. Started in 2006 by Melissa Hunter, our founder saw the opportunity for media that focuses on the visual and performing arts from Africa and the African diaspora. Today, her vision includes a print publication, video, social media, and our website.The Truth In This ArtThe Truth In This Art is a podcast interview series supporting vibrancy and development of Baltimore & beyond's arts and culture. To find more amazing stories from the artist and entrepreneurial scenes in & around Baltimore, check out my episode directory. Stay in TouchNewsletter sign-upSupport my podcastShareable link to episodeCreators & Guests Rob Lee - Host Melissa Hunter Davis - Guest Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Summer of Soul"Attention all movie lovers and fans of "The Truth In This Art" podcast (www.thetruthinthisart.com)! Host Rob Lee is thrilled to partner with Pratt Library for a four-part Black Cinema series at Pratt Library from March through June 2023, starting with Thompson’s 2022 Oscar-winning documentary, Summer of Soul. Summer of Soul reclaims the legacy of 1969’s Harlem Cultural Festival, which promoted Black pride and culture with musical performances by Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, B.B. King, the Chambers Brothers, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and Sly & the Family Stone.Join Rob for a night of trivia and conversation as he breaks down movies connected to Black history, culture, music and cinema. The three other films in the series - all directed by Spike Lee -  include The BlacKKKlansman (April 26), Do the Right Thing (May 25) and He Got Game (June 22). Thursday, March 9 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets ★ Support this podcast ★

T.K. Mills is an art journalist based in New York City. After receiving a Master’s Degree in Global Affairs, he discovered a love for graffiti while backpacking through Cuba. T.K. has written for several art publications including SOLD, Global Street Art, and Arte Fuse. Additionally, he manages the street art blog, Well Pleased We Dream. Beyond art, T.K. loves reading and traveling.About UPUP is a NYC-based magazine that centers on street art, graffiti, and creative urban culture. Each issue of UP focuses on a single subject, exploring a wide range of artists, interviews, and ideas around the theme.Our mission is to provide the art community with nuanced, provocative, and critical writing that navigates the questions of our generation. We pride ourselves on serving our readers high-quality articles that investigate, inform, and entertain. Like good art, UP Magazine is made to make you think and make you feel.The Truth In This ArtThe Truth In This Art is a podcast interview series supporting vibrancy and development of Baltimore & beyond's arts and culture. To find more amazing stories from the artist and entrepreneurial scenes in & around Baltimore, check out my episode directory. Stay in TouchNewsletter sign-upSupport my podcastShareable link to episodeCreators & Guests Rob Lee - Host T.K. Mills - Guest Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Summer of Soul"Attention all movie lovers and fans of "The Truth In This Art" podcast (www.thetruthinthisart.com)! Host Rob Lee is thrilled to partner with Pratt Library for a four-part Black Cinema series at Pratt Library from March through June 2023, starting with Thompson’s 2022 Oscar-winning documentary, Summer of Soul. Summer of Soul reclaims the legacy of 1969’s Harlem Cultural Festival, which promoted Black pride and culture with musical performances by Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, B.B. King, the Chambers Brothers, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and Sly & the Family Stone.Join Rob for a night of trivia and conversation as he breaks down movies connected to Black history, culture, music and cinema. The three other films in the series - all directed by Spike Lee -  include The BlacKKKlansman (April 26), Do the Right Thing (May 25) and He Got Game (June 22). Thursday, March 9 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets ★ Support this podcast ★