The Truth In This Art: Stories of Arts & Culture

Rob Lee
The Truth In This Art: Stories of Arts & Culture

"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, explores the vibrant intersections of arts, culture, and community in Baltimore and beyond. Through compelling conversations with artists, musicians, and cultural innovators, each episode unpacks the motivations, challenges, and achievements shaping today's creative landscape. Dive into stories that celebrate the voices defining culture and creativity, offering fresh perspectives and meaningful insights into the world around us.

  1. Chloe Vaughn on Baltimore’s Legendary Dive Bar, Mount Royal Tavern

    HACE 18 H

    Chloe Vaughn on Baltimore’s Legendary Dive Bar, Mount Royal Tavern

    In this episode of The Truth in This Art, Rob Lee welcomes Chloe Vaughan, longtime bartender at Baltimore’s iconic Mount Royal Tavern. Known for its storied history, eclectic clientele, and vibrant atmosphere, MRT is a true dive bar in every sense. Chloe shares her unique journey from MICA student to 'tavern historical society' and offers hilarious insights into life behind the bar. Discover why MRT is affectionately called 'Dirt Church' and how it continues to be a beloved staple in Baltimore’s cultural landscape. Tune in for humor, history, and unforgettable tavern tales!  This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

    47 min
  2. HACE 1 DÍA

    Boaz Yakin and Mecca Verdell on 'Once Again (For the Very First Time)': A Deep Dive into Hip-Hop, Dance, and Storytelling

    In this episode, I sit down with Mecca Verdell and Boaz Yakin to discuss their film  Once Again (For the Very First Time) , an electrifying hip-hop fantasia that delves deep into love, recognition, and the power of artistic expression. Boaz, acclaimed for Fresh and Remember the Titans, shares his vision of merging dance, poetry, and surreal storytelling to explore the intense relationship between DeRay, a legendary street dancer, and Naima, a spoken word poet. Mecca, a Baltimore native and internationally acclaimed poet, tells us about bringing Naima to life and how she championed a hometown screening at the historic Parkway Theatre. Join us for an unforgettable night celebrating Once Again at Baltimore’s Parkway Theatre on November 21st! The evening begins with a filmmaker happy hour at 6 pm, followed by short films from the Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund Fellows, leading into the screening. Stay afterward for a Q&A with Mecca, Boaz, and Oscar-winning producers Van Lathan and Nicholas Maye (Two Distant Strangers). Whether you're drawn to bold storytelling or fresh creative energy, this is a night you won’t want to miss. Do you want to check out? Once Again (For the Very First Time) Grab your tickets here and watch the trailer for a sneak peek! This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

    51 min
  3. Eyas (Jenna Balderson) Discusses 'Quiet-loud' Debut EP

    HACE 2 DÍAS

    Eyas (Jenna Balderson) Discusses 'Quiet-loud' Debut EP

    Baltimore musician Eyas (Jenna Balderson) discusses her genre-blending debut EP 'Quiet-loud,' merging indie-pop, jazz, RnB, and folk. In this episode of The Truth in This Art, I sit down with Jenna Balderson, better known as Eyas, a Filipina musician and producer based in Baltimore, MD. Known for her genre-blending sound that merges indie-pop, jazz, RnB, and folk, Jenna discusses the journey behind her debut EP, Quiet-loud, set for release on November 22nd. We explore how her music transforms personal emotions into art, creating what she describes as the "sonic equivalent of a collage." Jenna also shares stories about her inspirations—from Fleet Foxes and Björk to recent influences like Saya Gray—and opens up about collaborating with fellow Baltimore artists like JPEGMAFIA and Micah E. Wood. Plus, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at Quiet-loud, a deeply personal EP featuring introspective lyrics, dynamic soundscapes, and a mix of high energy and reflective moments. Join us as we unpack the emotions, influences, and community connections that shape Jenna's music. 📅 Quiet-loud is out November 22nd. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

    48 min
  4. HACE 3 DÍAS

    Sonic Lifeline: Reviving Jazz & Connection at The Hemingway Room

    In this episode of The Truth in This Art, host Rob Lee is joined by Ed Baldi and Nick Moreland, co-founders of Sonic Lifeline, a platform that provides musicians with unrestricted expression and the creators behind The Hemingway Room, an intimate jazz venue in Little Havana, Baltimore. Together, they explore their mission to foster deeper connections between artists and audiences, their unique collaborative journey, and how their distinct backgrounds in live production and photography shape Sonic Lifeline’s vision. The conversation delves into their efforts to revive the jazz pipeline between cities like Baltimore, D.C., and Philadelphia, while highlighting the challenges and triumphs of curating a thriving jazz scene in a post-pandemic world. Ed and Nick also share how The Hemingway Room creates space for authentic, artist-driven performances, ensuring that each show is a distinct and powerful experience.  This episode is brought to you as a part of my media partnership with Baltimore Magazine. Join us on November 23rd for the final show of the 2024 Fall Season! Musical Director, Phil Thomas leads us through an evening of "Songs that Speak", from artists like Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles and Bob James to name a few. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

    52 min
  5. Greg Mike on the Power of Murals, Cartoon Influence & Bringing Atlanta’s Art Scene to Life

    HACE 6 DÍAS

    Greg Mike on the Power of Murals, Cartoon Influence & Bringing Atlanta’s Art Scene to Life

    In this episode of The Truth in This Art, I chat with Greg Mike, a renowned street artist and founder of Atlanta's ABV Gallery. Greg opens up about his path from skate culture and cartoons to creating murals known for their vivid colors and playful characters, like his signature Larry Loudmouth. We talk about how his travels—from Amsterdam to the Swiss Alps—influence his work and how he channels his vision into community-driven projects. Greg also shares the story behind the Outer Space Project, an annual mural festival in Atlanta combining art, live battles, and block parties to celebrate public art. Through ABV, he's built a creative hub that brings together artists and audiences for an unforgettable experience. Links & Credits: Photo by Dave Roland This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

    41 min
  6. Turning Up the Volume on Creativity with Andy J. Pizza

    13 NOV

    Turning Up the Volume on Creativity with Andy J. Pizza

    In this episode, I sit down with Andy J. Pizza, a New York Times bestselling author-illustrator and the creative force behind the podcast Creative Pep Talk. Known for his bold, maximalist style, Andy J. Pizza brings an electric energy to his work, seen in books like A Pizza with Everything on It and Invisible Things. During our conversation, Andy opens up about how his ADHD shapes his artistic approach, fueling a vibrant, layered aesthetic that captures the imagination. We dive into Andy’s journey from aspiring illustrator to sought-after collaborator with major brands like Warby Parker and Target. He explains how Creative Pep Talk grew out of his desire to inspire and encourage creativity in others, offering a unique space where art and self-expression meet personal growth. Andy shares insights into the power of storytelling, balancing authenticity with client collaboration, and his philosophy of “turning up the volume” on creativity. This episode is packed with inspiration for anyone looking to infuse their life and art with passion and purpose. Tune in for an engaging conversation with Andy J. Pizza on what it means to make art that resonates and brings joy. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

    51 min
  7. Michael Carini: Turning Pain into Purpose with Acrylic Alchemy

    11 NOV

    Michael Carini: Turning Pain into Purpose with Acrylic Alchemy

    In this episode, I sit down with Michael Carini, the neurodivergent artist famously known as the "Acrylic Alchemist." Michael has captivated audiences worldwide, with over 100 exhibitions showcasing his journey of transforming pain into purpose through a method he calls acrylic alchemy. We explore how Michael, a San Diego-based artist with a background of resilience and determination, discovered a creative process that channels his life's challenges—like Tourette's and a traumatic brain injury—into visual storytelling that deeply resonates with viewers. Michael Carini shares insights into his journey, from his early influences to his unique approach that combines vulnerability with emotional depth. Join us to hear how he embraces his neurodivergent identity and creates art that's not only personal but meaningful to those who connect with it. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

    54 min
  8. Dominic Moore-Dunson: Telling Stories Through Dance & The Remember Balloons

    8 NOV

    Dominic Moore-Dunson: Telling Stories Through Dance & The Remember Balloons

    In this episode of The Truth in This Art, host Rob Lee engages in a captivating conversation with award-winning choreographer, dancer, producer, and educator Dominic Moore-Dunson. Known for his community-centered approach and recently recognized by Dance Magazine as one of 2023's “25 to Watch,” Dominic Moore-Dunson shares insights into his latest project, The Remember Balloons, a moving dance-theater production exploring memory loss, Alzheimer's disease, and intergenerational storytelling. The conversation delves into Dominic Moore-Dunson's inspiration from the children's book The Remember Balloons, how dance intersects with storytelling and community engagement, and his unique creative process, including building the show through improvisation with his team. Dominic Moore-Dunson also touches on his journey into dance, his passion for urban Midwest storytelling, and the impactful themes that drive his work in The Remember Balloons.  This program is supported in part by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation. If you have a story about art, culture, or community in Baltimore, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on "The Truth In This Art" podcast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the arts and culture podcast scene and showcase your insights on "The Truth In This Art" with Rob Lee. Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard. Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art. About "The Truth In This Art" Hosted by Rob Lee, "The Truth In This Art" podcast dives into the heart of creativity and its influence on the community. This arts and culture podcast from Baltimore highlights artists discussing their ideas, sharing insights, and telling impactful stories. Through these artist interviews, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the creative economy and artistic life in Baltimore.  Support the show: Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation  ★ Support this podcast ★

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"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, explores the vibrant intersections of arts, culture, and community in Baltimore and beyond. Through compelling conversations with artists, musicians, and cultural innovators, each episode unpacks the motivations, challenges, and achievements shaping today's creative landscape. Dive into stories that celebrate the voices defining culture and creativity, offering fresh perspectives and meaningful insights into the world around us.

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