Exploring Artistry and Identity: Espi Frazier's Journey in Wood Graphics and Beyond

Begin your experience with 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, presented by the one and only Rob Lee. Today we have a special guest: Espi Frazier, a renowned Visual Artist, Art Instructor, and Fiber Artist, who calls Baltimore, Maryland her creative home. With roots in Chicago, Illinois, and a Baltimore resident since 1993, Frazier's artistic journey flourished at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she pursued fashion design before discovering her true calling in drawing. Her artistic prowess was further refined under the guidance of Professor Grace Hartigan at the Maryland Institute College of Art, where she earned her MFA. Notably, Frazier has been a dedicated instructor at Friends School of Baltimore since 1993. Fueled by her foster mother's early influence, Frazier's distinctive wood graphics technique intertwines fashion illustration and figure drawing, resulting in captivating creations. Her art is an eloquent homage to African, Caribbean, Egyptian, and Japanese artistic traditions, passionately weaving a tapestry that honors the dignity and beauty of black individuals.

In this session, we take a closer look at:

• The formative role Frazier's foster mother played in nurturing her artistic spirit and encouraging her early love for art, shaping the trajectory of her creative journey.
• The pivotal moment when Frazier's path shifted from fashion design to the world of drawing, exploring the experiences and influences that led her to embrace her true passion.
• Tune in to discover the captivating technique of wood graphics, a fusion of fashion illustration and figure drawing, as we explore the evolution of Frazier's innovative approach and the artistic depths it plumbs.
• Join us for an inspiring discussion as we explore the rich tapestry of influences that infuse Frazier's art, ranging from African, Caribbean, and Egyptian, to Japanese traditions, and how she weaves these diverse elements into her compelling creations.
• Embark on a journey through Frazier's artistry in this episode, where we unravel the threads of her deep-seated love for drawing and her profound commitment to portraying the beauty and dignity of the black community, offering an intimate look into her creative expression and its powerful message.

Get ready to be inspired! as Espi shares her journey and creative process in this episode. Growing up in Chicago, Frazier was inspired by her foster mother, who was a talented artist herself. She attended the School of the Art Institute and initially pursued fashion design before realizing her true passion was drawing. Frazier developed her own unique technique called wood graphics, which combines elements of fashion illustration and figure drawing. She draws inspiration from various art forms, including African, Caribbean, Egyptian, and Japanese art. Frazier's work is a reflection of her love for drawing and her desire to express the beauty and dignity of black people.

Mentioned in this episode
Espi's website

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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

• Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
• Edited by Daniel Alexis
• Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

• Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
• Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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