The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

In this episode of The Truth in This Art, I sit down with multidisciplinary artist, curator, and award-winning filmmaker Imani Dennison. Imani’s work delves into the rich narratives of Black culture in the South and the African diaspora, blending folklore, fantasy, and hidden histories in her storytelling. We explore her journey growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, her time at Howard University, and how these experiences have shaped her artistic voice. Imani shares her passion for documentary filmmaking and photography, particularly focusing on her latest film, The People Could Fly, which highlights the significance of roller rink culture in Louisville as a vital community space.Join us as we discuss Imani’s creative process, her dedication to preserving Black history, and how she brings her unique perspective to the world of film and art. 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 sit down with Zach Michel, co-founder of the Charm City Fringe Festival, as we celebrate its 10th anniversary. We dive into the world of fringe art and the unique performances that highlight Baltimore’s vibrant and unconventional arts scene. Zach shares how Charm City Fringe has become a platform for bold, innovative theater, offering a space for artists to take risks and experiment. We also talk about the challenges and triumphs of running the festival, its history, and what audiences can expect this year as Charm City Fringe continues to push creative boundaries.The 2024 Charm City Fringe Festival runs from September 27th to October 6th. Don't miss out on the chance to see some truly innovative performances! For tickets and more information, visit Charm City Fringe's website. 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 sit down with Terry Guy, the visionary founder of Secret Walls. Since launching in 2006, Terry has been a key figure in revolutionizing the global art scene with Secret Walls' live paint battles. We dive into Terry’s journey, from his early days in the UK street art scene to founding Secret Walls, and how his passion for the arts has shaped his career, leading him to work with top brands like Posca, Apple, and Reebok.Terry also gives us an inside look at the upcoming Art of Competition Tour, kicking off on September 27th. We explore how Secret Walls has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, bringing together diverse artistic talents and creating an electrifying platform for artists to showcase their skills in front of live audiences.Tune in to learn more about Terry’s incredible career, the evolution of Secret Walls, and what to expect from the exciting new tour! 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, I sit down with Lesley Malin, the Producing Executive Director of Chesapeake Shakespeare Company. Lesley helped grow this Baltimore gem into one of Maryland’s largest theaters, taking it from a passion project to a major player in the Shakespeare world. We talk about how she led the renovation of a historic 1886 bank into their now iconic venue, and what it’s like to manage a theater that never stops evolving.But it’s not just about Shakespeare. Chesapeake Shakespeare is currently producing Joe Turner’s Come and Gone as part of Baltimore’s August Wilson Celebration, running from September 20th through October 15th. Lesley gives us a sneak peek into this gripping play, a crucial chapter in Wilson’s American Century Cycle that captures the heartache and hope of the Great Migration.This episode is part of my ongoing media partnership with Baltimore Magazine. Want to support Baltimore’s thriving arts scene? Make sure to catch Joe Turner’s Come and Gone at Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, and explore the full lineup of plays in the August Wilson Celebration. You won’t want to miss these powerful stories on stage. 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 sit down with Chinai Routte, an accomplished actor with performances spanning off-Broadway, regional theater, and film. Chinai is currently playing Margaret in Everyman Theatre’s production of POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive By Selina Fillinger, Directed by Laura Kepley. We explore the sharp political satire of the play, which dives into themes like gender equality and the pressures women face in leadership roles. Chinai shares her journey in the theater world and gives insights into her portrayal of Margaret, a First Lady balancing strength and vulnerability amidst political chaos. This episode highlights the humor and relevance of the production, especially in today's political climate.POTUS runs at Everyman Theatre until September 29th, 2024. Don't miss your chance to catch this incredible show! For tickets and more information, visit Everyman Theatre's website. 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 ★

Christina Delgado underscores the importance of connection, collaboration, and uplifting cultural identities. In this episode of "The Truth in This Art," host Rob Lee welcomes back Christina Delgado, a Baltimore-based photographer, curator, and founder of Tolas Room, a Puerto Rican home museum and cultural space. The discussion centers on Christina's efforts to celebrate and educate visitors about Puerto Rican and New York Rican culture and history, particularly within Baltimore's local Boricua narrative. Christina shares her journey as an artist and cultural worker, emphasizing community engagement, the challenges of gentrification, and the role of art in preserving cultural heritage.You may also check out her first interview with Rob through this link. 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 talk with BRUSH Mural Fest co-founders Jaz Ehrenberg and Saba Hamidi, along with Mac Campbell, Executive Director of the Baltimore Convention Center. We discuss the BRUSH Mural Fest Celebration, taking place on September 14th, which highlights Baltimore’s talented local artists. Jaz and Saba share the story behind BRUSH, their focus on uplifting emerging muralists through a hands-on mentorship program, and their commitment to creating community-driven public art. Mac explains the Convention Center’s role in hosting the celebration and supporting the local arts. Together, we explore how public art can transform spaces and build a stronger creative community in Baltimore.  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,' host Rob Lee interviews Yesenia Mejia Herrera, an interdisciplinary artist, activist, and educator originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, now based in Baltimore. Yesenia shares her journey of preserving and uplifting Indigenous Latinx traditions, focusing on her work with Creative Alliance's CIELO initiative and the importance of honoring cultural heritage. They discuss the intersection of Latinx arts, cultural preservation, and community building through projects like the upcoming Tianquiztli Artisan Market and Baltimore By Baltimore. Yesenia also highlights the significance of sharing Latinx cultures with the Baltimore community and passing these traditions to younger generations, including her son. This conversation offers a rich exploration of Latinx arts, cultural traditions, and the power of community-driven initiatives.Links to events:Tianquitli Artisan MarketBaltimore By BaltimoreCIELO 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, host Rob Lee interviews LaRian Finney and Derrick Chase, the visionary executive producers behind the Baltimore MET Gala, an event that blends art, fashion, philanthropy, and culinary innovation, making it a standout in the Mid-Atlantic region.LaRian, with over 30 years of experience in marketing and event production, and Derrick, founder of Stand Up Baltimore, dive into the inspiration behind the gala and what makes the 2024 edition special. The event will feature top designers like Lana Rae, Earle Bannister, and Jody Davis Designs, alongside curated menus and live performances, ensuring an unforgettable experience.For more information and to get your tickets, visit Baltimore MET Gala . 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 talk with Katie Chung, a Korean-American visual artist from Chicago. We explore Katie Chung's artistic journey, from her roots in drawing and painting to her work in sculpture. Katie Chung opens up about how her identity and heritage shape her creative process, especially through the use of unconventional materials. Our conversation with Katie Chung touches on the power of visual storytelling and how her work connects with diverse audiences. This is a deep dive into the evolution of Katie Chung's art and the important role of culture in her work. 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 ★