The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

On this episode of The Truth In This Art, I'm excited to share my conversation with Philippa Pham Hughes, a social sculptor, educator, speaker, and writer who designs spaces for honest conversations across political, social, and cultural differences. We explore Philippa's work and her approach to fostering meaningful connections, drawing from the arts and humanities to create these spaces.   We explore Philippa's journey into this work, from her early interest in art and her initial career as a lawyer to her eventual focus on creating experiences that foster connection. Philippa shares her insights on the importance of authentic conversation, the challenges of balancing connection with the influence of technology and social media, and her belief in the power of envisioning a better future to bridge divides. This conversation is an insightful look into the motivations and inspirations behind her work and the ongoing effort to repair the social fabric through dialogue and connection.   If you're interested in social practice art, the power of conversation, or creating more connected communities, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and discover the engaging work of Philippa Pham Hughes. Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth in This Art, I welcome back creative entrepreneur Melissa Hunter Davis to the podcast. Melissa is the founder of Sugarcane magazine, a Black art and culture media company known for its commitment to recognizing Black culture's global influence and the rise of Black visual art, music, dance, design, and literature.We explore Melissa's journey as a creative entrepreneur and the vision behind Sugarcane magazine. Melissa shares her insights into recognizing Black culture's global influence, the rise of Black visual art, music, dance, design, and literature, and her commitment to showcasing diverse voices within the art world.Eager to discover more about Sugarcane magazine or Melissa's work?Be sure to check out Sugarcane magazine's website at www.sugarcanemag.com  and follow them on Instagram at Sugarcane Magazine.   Curious to hear more about Melissa's background and the origins of Sugarcane?Check out Melissa's first interview here Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

On this episode of The Truth In This Art, I'm excited to share my conversation with Lex Marie, a DC-based multidisciplinary artist whose powerful work I've been eager to explore for years. Lex creates compelling paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect personal experiences and deeply resonate with the African diaspora, often using everyday and reclaimed materials.   We explore Lex's creative process, from her early creative explorations as a child (where she was known for coloring outside the lines with purpose!) to her pivotal decision to pursue painting in college and her impactful first solo exhibition in 2021. Lex shares her insights on the courage it takes to create art that addresses personal experiences and societal challenges, including the weighty realities of childhood for many African American children and children of color, systemic challenges, and her experience as a mother to a young Black boy in America.This conversation is more than just an interview; it's an insightful look into the motivations and inspirations behind her thought-provoking pieces and the importance of authenticity in artistic expression.This episode was recorded at Eaton DC, my creative home away from home, a hotel that's also a vibrant cultural center. If you're interested in contemporary art, the power of artistic expression, or stories that matter, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and discover the compelling and authentic work of Lex Marie. Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, I welcome Roxanne Sauriol Hauenherm, a self-taught Montreal-based artist whose captivating paintings of female figures have garnered international recognition. We explore her journey as a self-made artist and single mother, discovering how the birth of her daughter ignited her passion for painting and became the driving force behind her career. Roxanne shares her meticulous artistic process, from developing initial concepts and mood boards to photographing street-cast models, which serve as the foundation for her evocative and symbolic oil paintings. We also explore the deeply personal and autobiographical nature of her work, discussing how she uses the female form as a vessel to convey her own experiences, emotions, and messages, creating a visual diary of her life.If you are interested in the journey of a self taught artist, or the creation of evocative female figure paintings, this episode with Roxanne Sauriol Hauenherm is a must listen. Tune in to hear about her artistic process and inspiration.Don't miss Roxanne's first solo show! She's visiting the US and debuting at the Arch Enemy Arts - 13th Anniversary Exhibition on April 4th at 109 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Learn more here:  Be sure to listen to Roxanne Sauriol Hauenherm's episode here. Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, I chat with media personality and author LaDawn Black. We discuss her journey from Baltimore's airwaves to New York's legendary WBLS, highlighting her expertise in building engaged audiences through radio and beyond. LaDawn shares insights into her successful writing career, including her top-selling relationship guides and her award-nominated novel, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling and connecting with readers. We also explore her role as a relationship expert on various national media outlets, underscoring her commitment to providing informative and entertaining content on love and relationships.If you're interested in the world of media, writing, or relationship advice, this episode with LaDawn Black is a must-listen. Tune in to hear how she has built her successful career.To listen to her previous episode, click here.  Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, we explore the heart of Baltimore's art community with Martha Robichaud, a passionate art educator and the driving force behind Meander Art Bar, a vital art space Baltimore. Discover how Martha cultivates a thriving creative community Baltimore through accessible art Baltimore and impactful community art projects Baltimore. We delve into her unique journey, from growing up immersed in the Baltimore cultural scene, surrounded by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (her mom was a pioneering French horn player!), to her dedication to creating spaces for interactive art Baltimore and enriching arts education programs Baltimore.If you're interested in the essence of the Baltimore art scene, the power of community, or simply seek inspiration, this conversation with Martha Robichaud is a must-listen. Tune in and discover the magic of Meander Art Bar.Learn how community-building thrives through art in this episode of The Truth In This Art with Martha Robichaud of Meander Art Bar. Explore their programs and collaborations, including a connection with Cultivated (hear my interview - Truth In This Art episode with Alex Madaus of Cultivated Studios. Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, I welcome back Alex Madaus, an entrepreneur and visionary dedicated to bringing the healing power of nature indoors. Alex is a biophilic interior decorator and biophilic designer, and the owner of Cultivated Studios,, a Baltimore-based biophilic design studio located right here in Baltimore.We explore Alex's impactful work, examining the world of biophilic interior decoration and biophilic design, and discussing the captivating evolution of Cultivated Studios. Alex shares his insights on creating cultivated spaces, the importance of customer experience, and his deep-seated passion for bringing the healing power of nature indoors. We also look ahead, discussing the future of biophilic design and Alex's aspirations for Cultivated Studios.If you're interested in the intersection of nature and interior design, or want to learn more about how to create calming, natural spaces, this episode with Alex Madaus is a must-listen. Tune in to hear how Cultivated Studios is changing the interior design landscape of Baltimore.To hear more about Alex's story and the early days of Cultivated, be sure to listen to his first interview, where we discussed his journey and the initial concept behind Cultivated.  Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth in This Art: Run It Back, I welcome back mixed media artist Caitlin Gill to the podcast. Caitlin is the Exhibition and Program Director at Maryland Art Place (MAP) and a member of the all-female arts collective Gossip Girl Collective.We delve into Caitlin's artistic practice, which explores themes of patriarchy, gender, and the invisibility of female labor through thought-provoking sculptures and mixed media installations. Caitlin shares insights into her creative process, the challenges of balancing her artistic career with her role at MAP, and her vision for the future of the arts in Baltimore.Can't get enough Maryland Art Place (MAP)? Be sure to listen to MAP Executive Director Amy Cavanaugh's interview in the archive. Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

On this episode of The Truth in This Art, I welcome 2024 RAMW Pastry Chef of the Year, Rochelle Cooper, from The Duck and The Peach, La Collina, and more. We start with her story, looking at her early kitchen memories and the moments that made her want to work in pastry after culinary school. Then, we talk about how she creates, discussing how memories and childhood flavors inspire her desserts. Next, we look at her daily life, balancing being a busy chef with being a new mom. After that, we discuss how her desserts look, examining food photography and how social media shows off her work. We also talk about working with a team, discussing what makes a good pastry team and how working together helps her create. Finally, we celebrate her award, reflecting on her RAMW Pastry Chef of the Year award and what it means during a tough time for restaurants, with rising ingredient costs.  Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

On this episode of The Truth in This Art, I welcome back artist, Melanie Royster. We discuss her artistic evolution, from commercial projects to her current focus on fine art and powerful storytelling. Melanie shares how her Jamaican heritage and focus on women of color deeply inspire her work, driving her commitment to authentic expression. We also discuss the importance of rest and community in her practice, emphasizing that genuine connection and support are crucial for creative growth. Melanie highlights her dedication to creating vibrant, meaningful pieces that inspire and heal, reflecting the times and offering a voice to the voiceless.If you're interested in artistic evolution, powerful storytelling, or the influence of heritage on art, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Melanie's insights and artistic journey.This episode was recorded at Eaton DC, my creative home away from home, a hotel that's also a vibrant cultural center. Listen to her previous episode here.  Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos: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.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★