The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

Welcome to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, hosted by Rob Lee, engage in this meaningful conversation with Kenya Miles, a prolific artist, and alchemical mind behind Traveling Miles Studio, who stands as the visionary founder of Blue Light Junction—a multifaceted haven encompassing a natural dye studio, an alternative color lab, a dynamic retail space, an enchanting dye garden, and an enriching educational hub nestled in central Baltimore. As a dynamic textile artist, farmer, and seasoned natural dyer with over a decade of expertise, Kenya's fervor for sustainability resonates through her journey, steeped in diverse techniques and crafts cultivated from her extensive travels. Her creative prowess interweaves with her mission to establish a comprehensive full-circle system in Baltimore City, where the cultivation and processing of natural dyes flourish within the nurturing realm of Blue Light Junction.About Blue Light JunctionBlue Light Junction is a natural dye studio, alternative color lab, retail space, dye garden & educational facility in central Baltimore. Founded by textile artist, farmer, and natural dyer Kenya Miles, Blue Light Junction is focused on growing, processing, and preserving the history of natural dyes and their artistic, practical, and commercial applications.In this edition:Uncover the captivating origins of Kenya's journey as a textile artist and natural dyer, as she recounts her immersive experience in Mexico, where diverse crafts and traditions sparked her creative path.Journey into the vibrant history of natural dyes as Kenya Miles unravels the intricate threads connecting these historical pigments to the modern world, highlighting their potential beyond textiles.Delve into the profound philosophy of sustainability with Kenya, as she emphasizes the ethos of valuing quality over quantity and fostering a community rooted in environmental care and mutual support.Venture into the realm of natural dyeing intricacies with Kenya, as she unveils the captivating world where different fibers react uniquely to natural dyes, and the subtle interplay of factors like pH and light shape the kaleidoscope of colors.Embark on a journey with Kenya as she unveils her fervent dedication to creating a self-sustaining ecosystem in Baltimore City, where she cultivates and transforms natural dyes within the holistic embrace of Blue Light Junction.Join us for a captivating episode as Kenya discusses her time in Mexico, where she learned various crafts and traditions, and how it sparked her interest in natural dyes. Kenya explains the process of natural dyeing and the different techniques she has learned over the years. She emphasizes the importance of sustainability and building a community that values quality over quantity. Kenya also talks about the Ibora Art and Research Residency and the Nature's Color project at Blue Light Junction.Mentioned in this episodeBlue Light JunctionThe Station North Arts & Entertainment Interview Series is supported by the Station North Art's District & Central Baltimore Partnership.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Greetings to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, presented by your host, Rob Lee. Today I chatted with Dion Bowen, the Founder/Creative Chief Officer at Epic Art Universe. Dion Bowen is the founder and creative officer at Epic Art Universe. With a background in graphic design and art, Dion has a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Salisbury University. He started Epic Art Universe to bring together all of his talents and skills under one umbrella. The mission of Epic Art Universe is to create equity-based opportunities for the next generation of leaders through community programming and resources.About Epic Art UniverseEpic Art Universe is a creative agency specializing in graphic design, web development, marketing, consulting, graphic design educational training, after-school programming, social media development, and moreIn the following discussion:Explore how Dion Bowen's journey from graphic design to founding Epic Art Universe is a testament to the transformative power of combining diverse talents within a single platform.Dive into the realm of efficient business operations as Dion Bowen discusses how assembling teams aligned with gifts, purposes, and passions can supercharge productivity and effectiveness.Unveil the strategic role of volunteering in entrepreneurship as Dion Bowen highlights how this selfless act not only fosters relationships but also serves as a powerful marketing avenue to showcase expertise.Delve into the significance of equity-based initiatives with Dion Bowen, as he navigates the vital role of focusing on bridging gaps and providing resources within underserved communities, with a special emphasis on empowering youth.You won't want to skip this one! Dion shares his journey as an entrepreneur and the mission of his company. He discusses his background in graphic design and art, and how he combined his talents to create Epic Art Universe. Dion talks about the importance of building a team and the role of relationships in business. He also emphasizes the value of volunteering as a marketing strategy and shares his current focus on equity-based projects for youth.This interview is brought to you in part by the support of Innovation Works Baltimore.Innovation Works Baltimore is an innovative, collaborative resource network that connects neighborhoods, entrepreneurs, social innovation assets, and investors to build sustainable neighborhood economies in Baltimore.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Embark on a journey of discovery with 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, as Rob Lee leads the conversation with Ashley Williams, an esteemed educator, school leader, and emotional intelligence expert, who brings her extensive decade-long experience in education to the forefront. Renowned for her expertise in crafting and implementing socio-emotional and mindfulness curriculums across diverse educational platforms, Ashley's commitment to fostering emotional well-being is underscored by her role as the Founder & CEO of Clymb, an innovative emotional wellness software tailored for the youth. Her passion for mindfulness resonates through her dedicated practice, solidifying her as a transformative figure in the realm of education and emotional intelligence.About ClymbEmpower youth to improve their emotional health and find greater peace, focus, and success in and out of the classroom with Clymb—an interactive emotional wellness software designed just for them. Each young person receives a personalized plan based on the state of their emotional health according to Clymb’s research-backed assessments.In this podcast:Dive into the realm of emotional intelligence as Ashley Williams delves into how it's a teachable skill that lays the cornerstone for self-discovery and personal evolution.Explore the alarming state of mental and emotional health among young individuals, as Ashley Williams uncovers the staggering statistics and discusses proactive measures to address the crisis.Discover the empowering potential of Clymb as Ashley Williams elaborates on how the platform equips young people with an array of coping techniques and resources to navigate intricate emotional terrain and foster lasting emotional wellness.Don't miss this incredible episode as Ashley discusses her journey as an entrepreneur and the importance of emotional intelligence in young people. She shares her personal experience with mindfulness and how it transformed her life. Ashley explains how Clymb provides resources and coping techniques for young people to navigate challenging emotional experiences. She also highlights the mental health crisis among American youth and the need for proactive approaches to address it.This interview is brought to you in part by the support of Innovation Works Baltimore.Innovation Works Baltimore is an innovative, collaborative resource network that connects neighborhoods, entrepreneurs, social innovation assets, and investors to build sustainable neighborhood economies in Baltimore.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Welcome to a world of insightful discussions on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, featuring host Rob Lee and our guest Rodney Salvador, the visionary founder propelling the success of REUS Laboratories, an impactful BIPOC-owned high-fashion streetwear brand that takes center stage with its emphasis on sustainability and masterful hand craftsmanship. With an artistic background, Rodney seamlessly channels his creative prowess into the distinctive clothing designs that define REUS, offering a compelling fusion of art and fashion that resonates with a global audience.In this installment, we: Explore the intricate blend of sustainability, artisanal craftsmanship, and artistic ingenuity that defines REUS Laboratories' high-end streetwear creations.Delve into Rodney Salvador's compelling mission to inspire others to embrace their creative voices, fostering a culture of unique self-expression through his brand.Uncover the dynamics of collaboration in the realm of sustainable fashion, as Rodney Salvador shares insights into the vital role of effective communication and transparency. Step into Rodney's world of design as he unveils the magic behind sourcing vintage clothing and ingeniously repurposing it through his artistic lens, giving rise to unparalleled, one-of-a-kind fashion pieces.Embark on a journey through thrifting and vintage shopping with Rodney Salvador, discovering the hidden treasures and distinctive materials that fuel his imaginative and distinctive fashion designs.Don't miss out on this valuable conversation with Rodney as he discuss his brand's mission of sustainability and hand craftsmanship in the world of high-end streetwear. Rodney shares how he transitioned from creating art pieces with reclaimed textiles to designing clothing that combines function, fashion, and art. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling and meaning in his designs and highlights the role of sustainability in his brand. Rodney also talks about his journey from New York to Baltimore and the thriving vintage community in the city.Mentioned in this episodeREUS🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Your adventure begins with 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, presented by your host, Rob Lee. Today we have Mojdeh Rezaeipour, an Iranian-born interdisciplinary artist, who specializes in mixed media, installation, and film, skillfully excavating material memory where her personal narrative intertwines with a collective diasporic tale. Holding a degree in architecture from the University of California Berkeley and having graduated from Alt*Div, an alternative divinity school centered on art and healing justice, Mojdeh's practice is marked by adaptability and process-led innovation. Formerly an architect, storyteller, and community organizer, her creative journey has been illuminated through exhibitions and features in distinguished platforms including The Washington Post, BmoreArt, and The Moth Radio Hour. Having garnered accolades like The Studio Visit Fellowship at Takt Berlin and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Fellowship, Mojdeh currently thrives as a Studio Fellow at Washington, DC's Henry Luce III Center for Art and Religion at Wesley Theological Seminary, captivating audiences worldwide with her captivating exploration of identity, memory, and collaboration within the diaspora.In this feature, we unravel:Personal and Collective Journeys: Dive into Mojdeh Rezaeipour's dynamic creative process, driven by her exploration of diasporic experiences.Fusion of Stories and Sounds: Discover how Mojdeh collaborates with Iranian artists and musicians, weaving intricate narratives at the crossroads of cultures.The Creative Trust Fall: Explore Mojdeh's perspective on embracing uncertainty and releasing preconceptions as essential components of artistic growth.Rituals of a Creative Mind: Uncover the role of daily walks and morning pages in Mojdeh's toolkit for maintaining creativity and fostering a deep connection to her art.Art as Play: Delve into how Mojdeh's artistic expressions become a playground for experimentation, where she fearlessly engages with diverse mediums and unexpected themes.Don't miss this chance to hear from Mojdeh as she discusses her journey in the arts and the themes she explores in her work. She shares how her background in architecture led her to storytelling and the creation of mixed-media installations. Mojdeh emphasizes the importance of process in her art and the intersection of her personal story with the collective diasporic experience. She also highlights the significance of collaboration and the relationships formed through her artistic practice.(Photo by Senna Ahmad)Mentioned in this episodeMojdeh's website🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Get ready for thought-provoking conversations on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, with your host, Rob Lee, and today’s guest: Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, Ivan Martin brings a unique perspective to the stage, presenting life's challenges through the lens of a gentleman. With a background shaped by his upbringing amidst sisters, his "Gentleman Comedy" is both astutely honest and cleverly realistic, drawing from experiences in childhood and young adulthood. Ivan's comedy journey ignited during his time in the Navy in VA Beach, which led him to the vibrant comedy community of Baltimore where he quickly became an integral part, performing at Comedy Clubs and Colleges nationwide. Founder of the Baltimore Comedy Festival, hosting over 100 comedians from around the world, Ivan's commitment to diversity in comedy is evident. Selected for Kevin Hart's "Hart of The City" by Comedy Central, he further ventured into global stages, including a standout role with Norwegian Cruise Lines in 12 countries. Recognized for his talent by Comedy Central and the Baltimore Sun, Ivan continues to captivate audiences, especially in the DMV area. His dynamic presence extends to his Art of Comedy Showcase/Open Mic Series, where he entertains crowds with sketches and humor. Ivan's influence also extends to co-founding the Washington DC Comedy Festival, showcasing his dedication to fostering diverse comedic platforms.Within this chat, we shed light on:Explore Ivan Martin's mission to foster diverse audiences, facilitating shared laughter among individuals from varied backgrounds.Delve into the comedian's world, where the art of humor is a product of keen observations and inspiration drawn from everyday interactions and surroundings.Examine how bombing on stage can serve as a transformative tool, enabling comedians like Ivan Martin to refine their distinctive comedic voice and style.Uncover the dedication of Ivan Martin to maintain authenticity and consistency in his comedic endeavors, both within his performances and in his personal life.Investigate how Baltimore's Station North Arts District has been a pivotal hub in Ivan Martin's journey, offering invaluable resources and growth opportunities that have shaped his comedic career.You won't want to miss this enlightening conversation with Ivan as he joins host Rob Lee on this episode of The Truth in This Art. Ivan shares his journey into comedy, starting from his time in the Navy to becoming a full-time comedian. He discusses the different rhythms of laughter he aims for in his performances and the importance of being true to oneself on and off stage. Ivan also talks about the influence of Station North Arts District in Baltimore on his career and the significance of diversity in comedy.Mentioned in this episodeIvan Martin's WebsiteThis episode is brought to you by a partnership with Station North Art's District, a proud program of the Central Baltimore Partnership.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

It's time to explore creativity on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, where Rob Lee takes the lead on this meaningful conversation with Cindy Cheng, a Baltimore-based fine artist, sculptor, and educator, who brings a dynamic blend of creativity and recognition to her work. With a background steeped in puzzle-solving and an affinity for friends' collections, Cindy has garnered residencies at prestigious institutions like the Vermont Studio Center and the Anderson Ranch Artist Residency. Her artistic prowess has been acknowledged through prestigious accolades including the 2018 Joan Mitchell Foundation Painters & Sculptors Grant and the 2017 Sondheim Artscape Award. Cindy's distinctive artistry has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions across venues such as School 33 Art Center, Fjord Gallery, Ditch Projects, St Charles Projects, and 'Sindikit Project, often collaboratively with Cheeny Celebrado-Royer. Having earned her BA from Mount Holyoke College, Cindy further honed her craft through a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate from MICA and an MFA from MICA's Mount Royal School of Art. Additionally, she imparts her artistic wisdom as an educator at MICA, enriching the Drawing Department with her expertise. With a penchant for exploring unconventional materials in her sculptures and delving into strange imagery and folklore, Cindy Cheng's artistic journey is an enchanting exploration of the unconventional.In this episode, we delve into:How Cindy Cheng's artistic journey began in college and how a supportive instructor played a pivotal role in shaping her decision to pursue a career in the arts.Dive into the vibrant art scene of Baltimore, uncovering its welcoming and resource-rich community that provides a nurturing environment for artists like Cindy Cheng.Delve into the impact of winning the prestigious Sondheim Award on Cindy Cheng's artistic journey, discussing how the recognition boosted her morale and provided vital financial support to further her art practice.Uncover the significance of creative problem-solving as an essential skill for artists and explore the importance of taking breaks to prevent burnout, drawing insights from Cindy Cheng's experiences.Delve into Cindy Cheng's artistic influences as she shares how her fascination with folklore and the occult catalyze her creative process and shape her captivating artwork.Get ready for a mind-blowing episode as Cindy Cheng shares her journey into the arts and her experiences in the Baltimore art scene. She discusses how she discovered her passion for art in college and the role her supportive instructors played in her artistic development. Cindy also talks about her decision to pursue a postbaccalaureate program at MICA and how it led her to expand her practice and explore new mediums. She highlights the importance of community and the accessibility of resources in Baltimore, which have contributed to her growth as an artist. Cindy also discusses the impact of winning the Sondheim Award and how it provided financial support and boosted her morale. She shares her thoughts on creative problem-solving and the importance of taking breaks to prevent burnout. Cindy concludes by expressing her love for folklore and the occult, which often inspires her work.Mentioned in this episodeCindy Cheng's website🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Engage your mind with 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, where host Rob Lee guides the way on an enthralling discussion with Michael O'Connell, a distinguished journalist and field editor affiliated with The Patch in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. Renowned as the host and producer of the widely recognized It's All Journalism podcast, he also contributes to the production of the Better News podcast under the American Press Institute. With a rich professional background, Michael has held pivotal roles, including digital editor at Local News Now, senior digital editor at Federal News Network, and managing editor at The Connection Newspapers. His podcasting expertise extends to teaching in the American University School of Communication's Masters in Digital Storytelling program for three years, and he has delivered insightful talks on podcasting at prominent journalism conferences. Michael is also the author of the comprehensive textbook, Turn Up the Volume — A Down and Dirty Guide to Podcasting. Beyond his media contributions, he ventured to Tajikistan in collaboration with the U.S. State Department to educate young journalists about podcasting, showcasing his global impact on the field.In this episode, we explore:The art of sourcing content accurately and staying current in the dynamic world of fast-paced news, as Michael O'Connell unravels the strategies behind journalistic agility.Delve into the heart of podcasting success as Michael O'Connell reveals how authenticity and genuine discussions serve as the cornerstone for captivating and relatable content creation.Uncover the secrets to effective podcasting through an insightful discussion with Michael O'Connell, where he unveils the vital role of meticulous planning and organizational finesse in achieving podcasting triumph.Embark on a journey with Michael O'Connell as he shares the power of embracing individuality and authenticity, shedding light on how these traits can distinguish a podcast in a crowded landscape.Join the conversation with Michael O'Connell as he reshapes the narrative around failure, revealing its transformative potential as a catalyst for growth and improvement in the podcasting realm.Join us and learn from the best! Michael discusses the importance of sourcing content properly and staying up to date in the fast-paced news cycle. Michael shares his experience as a podcast host and offers insights into creating engaging and authentic conversations. He also talks about the process of writing his book, "The Down and Dirty Guide to Podcasting," and the challenges he faced. Michael emphasizes the importance of embracing one's uniqueness and being genuine in podcasting.Mentioned in this episodeMichael O'Connell's Twitter🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Welcome to an inspiring episode of "The Truth in This Art"! Join host Rob Lee as he engages in a captivating conversation with Josh Thomas and Caitlin Carbone Hernandez, theatre artists in Baltimore City dedicated to increasing diversity in classical theatre. Together, they form Fools and Madmen, a dynamic collaboration that brings a fresh and contemporary twist to Shakespeare's plays through hip-hop adaptations.In this episode, we delve into:The origins of Fools and Madmen and the story behind Josh and Caitlin's journey as theatre artists in Baltimore.The innovative thinking behind infusing Shakespeare's classic works with a contemporary hip-hop flair bridged the gap between traditional theatre and modern cultural expressions.The importance of accessibility and inclusivity in classical theatre, as Josh and Caitlin believe that Shakespeare's plays belong to everyone and should be accessible to all.The creative process of integrating hip-hop elements into Shakespearean texts creates a unique blend of classical and modern language, poetry, and music.The impact of their productions on increasing diversity in classical theatre, challenging existing perceptions, and opening doors for underrepresented voices.The artistic decisions and challenges involved in merging two seemingly different art forms and creating performances that resonate with diverse audiences.The influence of other artists on their work, the power of collaboration, and the delicate balance between inspiration and appropriation.Join us for an enlightening conversation as we explore the transformative power of hip-hop Shakespeare and the journey of Josh Thomas and Caitlin Carbone Hernandez in reshaping classical theatre through diversity and inclusivity.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★

Delighted to have you join 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, where Rob Lee is your host with today’s guest Michelle Faulkner-Forson, the Managing Director of The Baltimore Improv Group (BIG) located in Station North, brings her passion for comedy improv to the forefront. With a background in arts administration and a visual artist herself, Michelle is dedicated to fostering community and creativity through improv. BIG's mission to advance the art of comedy improv in the Baltimore region resonates with Michelle's belief in the power of self-expression and collaborative spaces. Through her role, Michelle contributes to enhancing the appreciation for and participation in improv, while also envisioning a community-driven culture of support and creativity spreading throughout the Baltimore area.In this session, we take a closer look at:The transformative power of improv: from active listening and embracing humility, to forging genuine connections that transcend the stage.Uncover the vital role of culture in the community: how its organic development and activation by the community foster a sense of belonging and shared identity.Delve into the profound significance of human creativity: its role in enabling personal expression, and the urgency of cherishing and fostering it within every individual.Examining the palette of change in the art world: adding strokes of inclusivity, equity, and amplifying diverse voices to create a richer and more representative masterpiece.Join us as we trace Michelle's improv odyssey, marked by the impact of mentors and believers who have catalyzed her growth and fueled her potential.You're in for a treat! Michelle Faulkner Forson joins host Rob Lee to discuss the world of improv and the importance of creativity and culture in a community. Michelle shares her journey from being a visual artist to finding her passion in improv and creating spaces for people to express themselves. She emphasizes the importance of listening, humility, and community in improv and how these skills can be applied to everyday life. Michelle also discusses the role of culture in the development of a community and the need for inclusivity and equity in the arts.Mentioned in this episode:BIG ImprovVote for Station NorthThis episode is brought to you by a partnership with Station North Art's DistrictVote for Station North! USA Today nominated the Station North Arts District as one of the nation’s 10 best creative and cultural hubs. Join us in voting once a day through July 4th. Find the link to vote in the episode description. This week, are excited to announce the return of Station North Summer Art Walks the final Fridays in July ‘Spotlight on Charles North’, and August ‘Spotlight on Greenmount West’ and September. Step into the artist studios, galleries, pop-ups, and performance spaces that make Station North one of the 10 best Arts Districts in the country. July 29, August 26, and September 30. For more information, visit stationnorth.org. Station North Arts District is a proud program of the Central Baltimore Partnership.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 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 ★