The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

Welcome to "The Truth in This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to introduce our next guest: Max Reim, owner of Pie Time, is a Baltimore-based entrepreneur with a passion for food and baking. After completing a bachelor's degree in Stream Ecology, Max's culinary journey began as a line cook. His love for coffee and pies inspired him to start Pie Time, initially selling sweet and savory pies along with specialty coffee at local farmers markets. Over the years, Pie Time grew, partnering with Dear Globe coffee roasters and building a mobile espresso cart for coffee service at farmers markets. In 2018, Max acquired a location in Patterson Park, SE Baltimore, and in October 2020, Pie Time finally opened its doors. Max's focus on using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients ensures that Pie Time's pies are flavorful and reminiscent of homemade treats. With a background in environmental science, Max brings a unique touch to the culinary world through his progressive and classic techniques in crafting both sweet and savory pies.Today's episode uncovers:The delightful world of Pie Time, a bakery that offers a delightful variety of pies. Learn how their sweet pies evoke the comforting nostalgia of a grandmother's recipe, while their savory pies surprise with innovative flavors that push culinary boundaries.The culinary philosophy of Pie Time, which uses local and seasonal produce is not just a preference, but a deep-rooted priority. Uncover the secrets to crafting pies bursting with the freshest and most flavorful ingredients that change with the seasons.Hear the inspiring story of Pie Time's journey to success during the pandemic. Discover how Max and his team faced and overcame challenges while opening a brick-and-mortar shop, and be amazed by the unwavering support of the vibrant Baltimore community.Dive into the background of Pie Time's visionary, Max Reim. Uncover the story of how his passion for food and cooking led him to create the beloved bakery, where he combines his culinary expertise with his background in environmental science, resulting in pies that are both delicious and thoughtful.Prepare to be transported to the vibrant gastronomic experiences of Japan as Max shares the inspiration behind some of Pie Time's most unique and delightful creations. From the bustling Tokyo fish market to innovative culinary delights, this episode offers a glimpse into the diverse influences that shape Pie Time's exceptional pies.Join us for an engaging conversation as Max Reim shares how he marries traditional and progressive elements in his pies, with sweet pies evoking a grandmother's pie and savory pies offering more innovative flavors. Max emphasizes the importance of using local and seasonal produce in his pies and highlights his favorite seasonal ingredients for each season. He also talks about the challenges of opening a brick-and-mortar shop during the pandemic and the support he has received from the Baltimore community. Max shares his background in cooking and his love for food, particularly his gastronomic experience in Japan. He concludes by inviting listeners to visit Pie Time and support their business.🎧🌟 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 "The Truth In This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In today's episode, we have a captivating conversation with Neru Thee Fourth Fugee, a multidimensional artist hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, who's a genre-bending lyricist, vocalist, composer, producer, and activist. Her music traverses a wide spectrum, from Ambient and Funk to Neo-Soul, Hip Hop, and Psychedelic, creating a distinct and mind-bending experience for her listeners. With trance-like kaleidoscopic harmonies, Neru's abstract lyricism and transcendental melodies are reminiscent of early Parliament Funkadelic and Ms. Hill, while still forging her own original path. She founded the Hippy Trippy collective in 2013 and has since become a prominent figure in Baltimore's art scene, captivating audiences with her solo projects like "The Reincarnation" and "Enlightenment Era." With a captivating stage presence, Neru has shared the spotlight with artists like Princess Nokia, Dan Deacon, Oddisee, IDK, and The Roots. Beyond her musical endeavors, Neru is also a dedicated model and passionate about empowering the youth with knowledge of self.In this episode, we delve into:A captivating discussion as Nehru showcases his original, intriguing, and impactful music style, skillfully blending multiple genres into a unique and mesmerizing sound that sets him apart as an artist.Valuable insights as Nehru delves into the creative process, highlighting how overthinking can hinder artistic expression, and reveals the power of capturing the essence in the first idea or take.Discover the diverse musical influences that shape Nehru's artistry, from gospel and funk to underground artists, models like FKA Twigs, and James Splate, offering a rich tapestry of inspiration.Prepare for an inspiring conversation as Nehru shares his vision to propel Baltimore's music scene forward, create generational wealth through his art, and make a positive impact by empowering the youth with knowledge and inspiration.In this thought-provoking episode, Nehru encourages listeners to embrace curiosity, think independently, ask questions, and cultivate a lifelong passion for learning, emphasizing the importance of continuous growth and self-discovery.Join us for an engaging conversation as Neru emphasizes the importance of being original and not overthinking the creative process. Neru also shares his influences, including gospel, funk, and various underground artists. He talks about his upcoming album and his goals of propelling Baltimore's music scene and creating generational wealth. Neru encourages listeners to think for themselves and seek knowledge, while also appreciating the duality and beauty of 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 ★

In this episode of the podcast, join host Rob Lee as he engages in an insightful conversation with Kotic Couture(pronounced kāˈädik ko͞oˈto͝or), the dynamic rapper, songwriter, and multifaceted artist, who hails from Baltimore City and stands out with their vivacious gender non-conforming identity, breaking barriers in the music industry. Coming of age in Baltimore's underground art movement and club scene, Kotic Couture blends high-energy club, hip-hop, and poignant lyricism with spoken-word poetry, creating a unique and powerful sound. They gained recognition as an opening act for prominent artists like Azealia Banks, Cupcakke, and BBYMUTHA, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with. In 2020, they released their first album, "Diary of a Dreamer," receiving praise for their introspective and buoyant style. Kotic Couture's creativity, versatility, and colorful persona captivate audiences, making them a truly unique and innovative artist. Don't miss the chance to listen to their exceptional music and experience their unparalleled talent.In this episode, we explore:The diverse and captivating world of Kotic Couture's music, which blends hip-hop, Baltimore club music, soul, and pop to create a truly unique sound.Inspiring conversation as Kotic Couture shares how their experiences growing up on the Eastern Shore have shaped their artistry and fueled their desire to inspire and uplift queer and non-binary youth.The vibrant and close-knit community of Baltimore's underground scene, where authenticity and creativity thrive, as Kotic Couture takes us on a journey through their artistic roots and influences.Uncover the diverse talents of Kotic Couture beyond music, exploring their expertise in makeup artistry and writing, adding an extra layer of creativity to their already multifaceted persona.Join us in this enlightening episode with Kotic Couture who draw inspiration from her experiences growing up on the Eastern Shore and her desire to inspire queer and non-binary youth. Kotic Couture is known for their high-energy performances and her ability to connect with her audience. She is a proud member of the Baltimore underground scene and values the sense of community and authenticity that it provides. In addition to her music, Kotic Couture is also a skilled makeup artist and writer.🎧🌟 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 captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art"! Join host Rob Lee as he engages in a meaningful conversation with Christina Fidler, an award-winning 2D character animator, director, and screenwriter, based in Baltimore, Maryland. Her passion for animation led her to earn a BFA in Animation from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). As the President of the Maryland student chapter of Women in Animation at MICA, she actively worked on creating empowering spaces and workshops to promote gender inclusion and cultural diversity within the animation community. Christina's unique work explores the interplay between comedy and anxiety, using twitchy lines, fast-paced gags, and off-kilter universes to highlight the complexities of the human experience. Currently, she is engaged as a Junior 2D Character Animator for an upcoming Comedy Central digital production and has gained recognition for her thesis film, "Condolences from the Vulgar Tongue or (Boner)," at prestigious film festivals like Animation Block Party, Sweaty Eyeballs, and Couch Film Festival. With an impressive portfolio, Christina has collaborated with notable companies such as Comedy Central, Nxpa Media, Roses for Baltimore, and Mind in Motion. Her talent and dedication to storytelling make her an influential figure in the animation industry.Get ready to dive into:Christina Fidler's animation journey as she uses her art to explore personal anxieties and insecurities, creating relatable and cathartic work that resonates with audiences.The depths of animation with Christina as she delves into themes of sexual anxiety, navigating relationships, and unyielding introspection, infusing her work with profound emotional exploration.This captivating episode as Christina discusses her approach to pushing scenarios to outrageous and bizarre limits, infusing humor into horrifying and embarrassing life moments. Through her art, she shows that our worries are not as scary as they seem and that we share common anxieties.Uncover the power of animation as Christina Fidler shares how this medium allows her to unleash creativity and expression, pushing boundaries to create one-of-a-kind visual experiences that captivate and inspire.Join us as we explore the world of animation with Christina as she shares how she uses animation as a way to explore her own anxieties and insecurities, creating work that is relatable and cathartic. Christina's work often delves into themes of sexual anxiety, navigating relationships, and relentless introspection. She draws inspiration from her own experiences and aims to push scenarios to their most outrageous and bizarre limits. Through her work, Christina aims to show that the things we worry about are not as scary as they seem and that we are not alone in our anxieties.🎧🌟 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 "The Truth in This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to introduce our next guest: eAndrew Murray, an American photographer based in Baltimore, is renowned for his expertise in portrait, beauty, fashion, and wedding photography, catering to clients in the DMV area, Atlanta, and NYC. With a keen eye for capturing the essence of his subjects, eAndrew's work reflects his dedication to providing exceptional imagery. He is a Canon shooter and has earned recognition with features in various digital magazines. Beyond his professional endeavors, eAndrew passionately hosts events for new photographers under the group bmore_shootz, fostering growth and creativity within the photography community. Additionally, he serves as a model development coach, working alongside Simone to equip new models with essential skills in posing and facial expressions. Utilizing music to set the vibe during shoots, eAndrew ensures a positive and energetic experience for his clients. Over the past three years, he has been mentored by the world-renowned Nikon Ambassador, Matthew Jordan Smith, further honing his craft. Whether shooting for magazines or capturing cherished portraits for clients, eAndrew is always "Focused On You."Discover the depths of:eAndrew's photography style, which goes beyond mere photographs, focusing on creating captivating experiences that truly reflect the essence and liveliness of his subjects.The sources of eAndrew's creativity as he shares how influential artists like John Coltrane and renowned photographers like Robert Frank shape his approach to capturing the raw humanity of each moment.Learn how eAndrew's dedication to understanding his clients and their cultural backgrounds fuels his ability to craft personalized and empowering images that leave a lasting impact.Empowering Diversity in the Creative World: Join the conversation as eAndrew emphasizes the significance of diversity in the creative industry and how established professionals can play a crucial role in supporting and nurturing the next generation of artists, fostering a vibrant and inclusive artistic community.Join us for an engaging conversation as Andrew discuss his work being all about capturing the energy and vibrance of his subjects, creating an experience rather than just a photograph. He draws inspiration from artists like John Coltrane and photographers like Robert Frank, who believe in capturing the humanity of the moment. Murray's work is characterized by vibrant colors and a focus on the individual's unique features. He believes in studying his clients and understanding their culture to create images that make them feel great. Murray also emphasizes the importance of diversity in the creative industry and the need for established professionals to give back and support the next generation of artists.🎧🌟 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 captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art"! Join host Rob Lee as he engages in a meaningful conversation with Qrcky.  He is a notable DMV artist renowned for his thought-provoking work, delving into social commentary, daily routines, human nature, street art, cubism, abstract art, and ethical issues. Drawing inspiration from influential artists like Kara Walker and Jean-Michel Basquiat, Qrcky masterfully crafts synergies through layers of both constructed and discovered elements. Currently based in Baltimore, his art explores themes of movement, surface deconstruction, reassembly, and the interplay of forgetting and remembering past experiences. Passionate about using art as a medium of expression, Qrcky addresses a wide range of topics, including political issues and social injustices, infusing profound emotions and thoughts into his creations. In our talk, Qrcky shares:How he utilizes his art to express a wide range of emotions and thoughts, delving into political issues and social injustices through his thought-provoking work.Explore the mindset of Qrcky, an artist dedicated to continuous growth and artistic evolution, as he shares his beliefs on pushing artistic boundaries and constantly improving his craft.Discover the well of inspiration that fuels Qrcky's artistry as he shares how current events and personal experiences shape his creative process and influence the themes he explores in his artwork.Get to know the multi-faceted Qrcky beyond his art as he discusses his diverse interests, from playing chess and inventing to embracing the world of basic coding, offering an insight into the creative mind of this remarkable artist.Join us in this enlightening episode as Qrcky discuss how he started his artistic journey as a graphic artist but later transitioned to painting. He found that painting allowed him to channel his emotions and create meaningful pieces. He often draws inspiration from current events and personal experiences. Qrcky believes in pushing himself to constantly improve and evolve as an artist. He is also interested in other creative pursuits, such as playing chess, inventing, and learning basic coding.🎧🌟 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 "The Truth in This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to introduce our next guest: Shawn Chopra, the co-owner of Good Neighbor, a unique café and retail concept in Hampden, Baltimore. Originally from Canada, Shawn and his wife moved to Baltimore for graduate school and immediately fell in love with the city. Good Neighbor is not just an ordinary coffee shop; it combines an intimate café setting with a curated collection of housewares and, more recently, a charming greenhouse. As a community-driven space, Good Neighbor serves as a platform for both local and international makers to showcase their creations and foster a warm and welcoming environment for customers. Join us in this enlightening podcast episode as Shawn shares his journey as an entrepreneur and navigating the challenges of opening a business during a pandemic. Learn how his background as a physical therapist and his passion for art and design have greatly influenced the concept and atmosphere of Good Neighbor, creating a space that fosters creativity and a sense of community.Coming up, a deep dive into:The unique blend of coffee shop and community-driven space at Good Neighbor in Hamden, Baltimore.The creative talent of Baltimore as Good Neighbor proudly showcases the work of local and international makers.In this episode, Shawn Chopra shares the significance of patience and dedication in building a successful business venture.Learn about Baltimore's supportive business community, where experienced owners generously offer advice to newcomers.Good Neighbor's commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices in sourcing and business operations, making a positive impact on the community.Join us for an engaging conversation as Shawn discusses the concept and vision behind the shop. Good Neighbor aims to create a community-driven space that brings together local and international makers, showcasing their work and providing a welcoming environment for customers. Shawn emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and highlights the creative talent in Baltimore. He also shares his experience as an entrepreneur and offers advice for those looking to pursue their own business ventures.🎧🌟 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 ★

In this episode of the podcast, join host Rob Lee as he engages in a fascinating conversation with Aaron Brown. He is a Baltimore-based cultural producer, creative consultant, and polymath. He is known for his work in the arts community, particularly in the visual arts and music scene. Aaron is passionate about promoting Baltimore as a creative hub and helping artists and creatives improve their business acumen.In this episode, we explore:The world of Baltimore's cultural scene with Aaron Brown, a passionate cultural producer and creative consultant. Discover Aaron's mission to promote Baltimore as a thriving creative hub, fostering artistic growth and collaboration.The fascinating journey of Aaron Brown in this podcast episode as he opens up about his role as a cultural anthropologist and scientist. Learn how he immerses himself in diverse communities to glean insights and create impactful work that resonates with audiences.Prepare to be moved as Aaron Brown discusses the power of storytelling and its ability to evoke emotions and deeply engage listeners. Uncover the art of crafting compelling narratives that leave a lasting impression.Tune in to this enriching podcast episode as Aaron Brown shares the value of belonging to different circles and communities. Gain insights into how being part of such networks provides unique access to people, resources, and exciting opportunities.Discover the art of storytelling from a master himself as Aaron Brown encourages listeners to explore and learn from various storytellers. In this episode, he emphasizes the importance of drawing from personal experiences, creating authentic narratives that resonate with others.Join us for an engaging episode as I talk with Aaron. He is passionate about promoting Baltimore as a creative hub and helping artists and creatives improve their business acumen. Aaron describes himself as a cultural anthropologist and scientist, observing and learning from various communities and using those insights to produce meaningful work. He believes in the power of storytelling and the importance of evoking emotion in good storytelling. Aaron also emphasizes the value of being part of different circles and communities, as it provides access to people, resources, and opportunities. He encourages others to watch and learn from different storytellers and to have their own experiences to draw from in their storytelling.Aaron Brown (@brownabouttowne) is a Baltimore-based Cultural Producer, Creative Consultant, and Polymath. Operating with a focus on experiential storytelling and providing access to curated lists of connections from a breadth of creative capacities, notable partners include: Jagermeister, Boiler Room TV, Moonrise Festival, Fool’s Gold Records, National Bohemian Beer, Under Armour, and Maxim.credit to Megan Elyse/@meganxelysephoto, Chris Brooks/@pinklloydwright, and Katie Robertson/@yarrowflowercoCheck out Aaron's DJ profile Sovthpaw🎧🌟 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 "The Truth In This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In today's episode, we have a captivating conversation with Greg Hatem, the co-owner and co-founder of Bizarre Baltimore, a one-of-a-kind store founded in 2013 by him and Brian Henry, both originally from the Baltimore area. Bizarre started as a small-scale retail experiment in the Hampden neighborhood, offering a fascinating array of natural history specimens, medical and funerary antiques, natural home goods, jewelry, and prints. Over time, Bizarre gained recognition for curating and hosting an annual taxidermy competition at The Walters Art Museum, as well as providing educational workshops on taxidermy and entomology. Additionally, they have their own unique line of scented candles. Beyond his work at the store, Greg Hatem is a talented musician and producer, actively involved in bands such as Natural Velvet and Moth Broth.Today's episode uncovers:The fascinating world of Bizarre Baltimore, a unique store showcasing preserved animal specimens, medical antiques, and quirky jewelry, as we take you on an enthralling journey through their curious collections.Step into the extraordinary world of Bizarre Baltimore as we explore their mission to provide an immersive and interactive shopping experience, where you can personally encounter and acquire a range of uncommon and captivating items.Unveil the secrets behind Bizarre Baltimore's success as we delve into their customer-centric approach, learning how listening to their patrons and curating based on their interests has shaped this captivating store.Dive into the vibrant and thriving creative community of Baltimore, discovering how the city's dynamic atmosphere has paved the way for innovative entrepreneurs to establish businesses with limited resources.Get to know the multitalented Greg Hatem, co-owner of Bizarre Baltimore, and explore his extraordinary musical journey as he brings his passion for music to life through his involvement in bands like Natural Velvet and Moth Broth.Join us for an engaging conversation as Greg discusses the origins of Bizarre Baltimore, a store that specializes in oddities and curiosities. He talks about the unique items they offer, such as taxidermy specimens, medical antiques, and funerary antiques. Greg explains that the store aims to provide a space where people can see and purchase these unusual items in person, rather than just online or in a museum. He also highlights the importance of listening to customers and stocking items based on their interests and requests. Greg shares his love for Baltimore and its creative community, as well as his optimism for the future of the city under the leadership of Mayor Brandon Scott. He also mentions his own creative pursuits in music and upcoming projects.🎧🌟 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 ★

Meet Diamond Dixon, a published Portrait & Editorial Photographer hailing from Norfolk, VA, and raised in P.G. County, Maryland. With a keen eye for artistry, Diamond specializes in music, editorial, portrait photography, and media production. Her passion lies in capturing the strength, passion, and beauty of her subjects in every image. As a multifaceted artist, Diamond is dedicated to documenting and representing the rich stories and experiences of Black culture through her exceptional work. She is driven by the desire to authentically represent and empower Black culture through her art. Diamond believes that it is important for Black stories to be properly documented and shared through imagery and media. She is dedicated to making a positive impact and inspiring others to do the same. Diamond has been featured in publications such as Blavity, Fader, and Lords.In this episode, we uncover:The captivating world of Diamond Dixon's artistry, which revolves around themes of power, authenticity, and the representation of Black culture. Get inspired by her compelling approach to photography and how she uses it as a medium to empower and celebrate the richness of Black heritage.An enlightening conversation with Diamond Dixon as she shares her belief in the transformative power of artists. Discover how their work and storytelling have the ability to create a significant impact, not only in the art world but also in shaping narratives and driving positive change in society.Diamond Dixon discusses the importance of active community participation and advocating for change. Gain insights into how her artistic journey aligns with her commitment to making a difference in her community and beyond through her creativity and art.Tune in to this heartfelt podcast episode as Diamond Dixon passionately discusses her dedication to preserving and honoring the history and stories of Black people through her art. Delve into the profound emotional connection she creates with her subjects, and how her work serves as a powerful platform to bring marginalized narratives to the forefront.Join us in this captivating episode as Diamond shares her artistic journey and showcases her talent in portraying the new generation of peers and artists through her lens. Experience the essence of Black culture come alive through her captivating photography and media creations.🎧🌟 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 ★