Truth In This Art: Stories from Artists, Cultural Leaders and Creative Thinkers Rob Lee

In this episode of "The Truth in This Art," 🎙️ host Rob Lee interviews Stuart Shapiro, a multifaceted producer, writer, and director. Shapiro shares his background in Massachusetts and his early exposure to music, which fueled his entrepreneurial spirit in organizing music events. He discusses the centrality of humor in his work, coining the phrase "funny is money," and reflects on the role of laughter in health and longevity. Shapiro also talks about dealing with rejection and the importance of self-criticism in the creative process. He touches on the concept of being cultured, the counterculture, and the value of stepping out of one's creative bubble. The conversation offers insights into the complexities of creativity and artistic expression. 🎨✨
Episode Highlights:
Meet Stuart Shapiro (00:03:40) Stuart Shapiro gives us a glimpse into his life, starting with his roots in North Adams, Massachusetts, and his formative years immersed in music and early business ventures.
Reviving the Berkshire Music Barn (00:10:41) Stuart takes us through his journey of breathing new life into the Berkshire Music Barn, detailing the hurdles and triumphs of hosting concerts with legends like Arlo Guthrie and James Taylor.
Comedy's Timeless Charm (00:21:37) Stuart Reflects on the lasting allure of comedy and its unique ability to deliver joy across generations, in contrast to other genres like horror.
The Healing Power of Laughter (00:23:30) Rob and Stuart discuss the widely held belief that laughter can be a potent medicine, enhancing our overall well-being.
Navigating Rejection (00:25:27) TStuart and Rob tackle the topic of rejection in the creative journey and how humor can be a salve during tough times.
Bravery in Creation (00:26:21) Stuart highlights the essential role of bravery when facing the inevitable setbacks and letdowns in the creative industry.
The Necessity of Self-Criticism (00:35:09) In this part of the conversation, Stuart emphasizes the role of self-criticism in steering clear of mediocrity and striving for greatness in creative endeavors.
Artist's Battle with Rejection (00:37:30) A look at the challenges artists face when dealing with rejection, and the influence of self-assurance and external factors on their work.
Recognition's Creative Spark (00:39:34) In this part, Stuart and Rob explore the impact of recognition on an artist's creativity and confidence, and how it can serve as an inspirational force.
Art and Counterculture (00:48:21) This part is the discussion about the significance of counterculture in the arts and the value of an unfiltered approach to creative expression.
The Filmmaker's Journey (00:56:36) Stuart shares insights into the gratifying yet demanding world of filmmaking, from the joy of crafting enduring works to the relentless pursuit of creative expression.
Key Takeaways:1. Embrace your background to fuel your creative and entrepreneurial endeavors. 🌟2. Recognize the power of humor in work and its positive impact on health and longevity. 😂💪3. Learn to handle rejection constructively and use self-criticism to enhance your creative process. 🛤️🔍 4. Expand your horizons by engaging with different cultures and countercultures to enrich your artistic expression. 🌍🎨
Website and Social Media Links:🌐 nightflightplus.com🔗 LinkedIn: Stuart S. Shapiro📸 Instagram: nightflightofficial📘 Facebook: Night Flight
If you enjoyed this insightful conversation with Stuart Shapiro on "The Truth in This Art," don't miss the chance to delve deeper into his world. Visit Stuart's website to explore his latest projects and connect with him through his social media links. Show your support for an artist who truly understands the power of humor and creativity in our lives. 🌟💬
⭐ But don't stop there! Your feedback is invaluable. Take a moment to rate and review this episode, letting us know what resonated with you. Your reviews help shape the future

In this episode, Rob Lee and Jason Steer explore the intersection of arts, culture, and community. Steer shares his Caribbean heritage and his path into the creative arts, detailing his time at the Apollo Theater and his work in education and workforce development. He emphasizes the importance of exposure, authenticity, and inclusivity, particularly in a project aimed at the deaf community. Steer also discusses his role at Baltimore's Creative Alliance, focusing on supporting artists from marginalized communities. The conversation touches on Steer's creative process, his excitement for the potential in Baltimore, his humorous views on English cuisine, and his interests in anime and sports. The episode wraps up with Steer inviting listeners to engage with the Creative Alliance's diverse cultural events.
Episode Content:
Experience at Apollo Theater (00:06:25): Jason discusses his time at the Apollo Theater, engaging the community and providing opportunities for youth.
The Impact of Exposure (00:13:29): Rob and Jason emphasize the importance of exposure and representation for people of color in creative fields.
Creative Process and Stages (00:17:28): Jason explains his creative process, from ideation to execution, and how he prepares new work.
Engaging with the Deaf Community (00:19:28): Understanding and incorporating technology for accessibility in projects for the deaf community.
Joy and Challenges in the Creative Process (00:21:58): Finding joy in creation and ensuring perfect execution amidst challenges.
Strategies for Marginalized Communities (00:28:39): Allocating resources and building relationships to support marginalized artists.
Community Engagement and Collaboration (00:32:22): Collaborating with arts districts and responsibly planning community support.
Recognizing Creativity and Potential in Baltimore (00:34:53): Highlighting the value of creativity in Baltimore and recognizing its potential.
Direction of Creativity and Community (00:37:59): Jason discusses the focus on creativity and community at the Creative Alliance.
Commitment to Leadership and Passion (00:38:56): Sharing his commitment to the Creative Alliance and encounters with its passionate founders.
Watching Anime and Sports (00:43:54): Jason talks about anime and his excitement for the basketball playoffs.
Creative Alliance Events and Activities (00:45:38): Inviting listeners to follow Creative Alliance on Instagram and highlighting upcoming events.
Key Takeaways:
Exposure to diverse cultures and communities is crucial for personal and artistic growth.Authentic representation and inclusivity in the arts empower marginalized groups.Supporting local artists fosters a vibrant and diverse cultural community.Engaging with cultural institutions like the Creative Alliance enriches one's understanding of the arts.Social Media Link:LinkedIn: Jason Steer

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, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
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"
"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.
Connect with me:
Website | Twitter | Instagram 
Support the show:
Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation 


★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of "The Truth in This Art," host Rob Lee interviews KJ Mohr, the festival and programming director for the Maryland Film Festival. Mohr shares her background in film, her path to her current role, and the importance of diverse storytelling. She discusses the festival's response to the pandemic and its 25th anniversary. The conversation also covers emerging trends in film, the inclusion of new cinematic technologies, and the support for young filmmakers, especially women. Mohr's personal preferences for festival snacks and screenings are revealed in a rapid-fire question segment. The episode concludes with an invitation to the upcoming festival, emphasizing its inclusive approach. 🎬🎥
Episode Content:
The Early Creative Experiences (00:01:11) KJ Mohr shares her early encounters with foreign and indie films, influenced by her small-town upbringing and family's interest in cinema. 🏞️🎞️Defining a Good Story (00:05:10) KJ Mohr discusses her preference for stories that are outside her own experiences and the importance of unique storytelling. 📚🎭History with the Maryland Film Festival (00:06:53) KJ Mohr describes her journey of becoming aligned with the Maryland Film Festival and her various roles leading up to her current position. 🎞️🌟Role of Programming Director (00:11:01) KJ Mohr explains the responsibilities of a programming director, including community involvement, selection process, and reflecting diverse voices. 📽️👩‍💼Challenges in Bringing Back the Festival (00:15:31) KJ Mohr discusses the challenges of re-establishing the festival after a year off and the impact of the pandemic on the creative arts community. 🎭🦠Filmmaker Lounge and Emerging Technologies (00:17:18) Discussion about the filmmaker lounge and the focus on emerging technologies within moving image creation at the festival. 🛋️💡Themes and Trends in Films (00:17:28) Exploration of the forthcoming films, themes, and techniques being used in the festival, including a focus on coming-of-age stories and support for young women filmmakers. 📽️🌟Local Documentaries and Film Culture in Baltimore (00:19:24) Excitement about local documentaries, such as "More Than Hype," and the strong film culture in Baltimore, highlighting the industry's growth and potential. 🎬🏙️Recreation of the Paradox and Rapid Fire Questions (00:21:36) Discussion about the recreation of the Paradox and the host's rapid-fire questions, covering topics such as favorite movies, festival snacks, and preferred screening times. 🔄🔥Maryland Film Festival Details and Invitation (00:26:19) Information about the Maryland Film Festival's 25th-anniversary celebration, including dates, venues, and a call for new festival-goers, with details available on the festival's website. 🎉🎈Key Takeaways:
1. Diverse storytelling enriches film festivals and broadens audience perspectives. 🌍🎭2. Film festivals must adapt to challenges like the pandemic to continue their cultural impact. 🦠🎬3. Supporting young and female filmmakers is crucial for a more inclusive film industry. 👩‍🎥🌟4. Incorporating new cinematic technologies can enhance the film festival experience. 📽️💡
Social Media Links:Website: mdfilmfest.comInstagram: kristinamaisalegriaLinkedIn: KJ Mohr
If you enjoyed this insightful conversation with KJ Mohr on "The Truth in This Art," don't miss out on the opportunity to dive deeper into the world of diverse storytelling and cinematic innovation. Head over to the Maryland Film Festival's website to learn more about their incredible work and how you can be a part of their 25th anniversary. Follow them on social media to stay updated on the latest trends in film and support young, emerging filmmakers.
🌟 But don't stop there! Show your love for this episode by rating and reviewing it on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedbac

In this episode, Rob Lee explores Osaretin Ugiagbe's transition from computer science to art, navigating skepticism at Yale, and wrestling with questions of identity and authenticity. Osaretin reflects on how growing up in the Bronx influenced his creative expression and recounts the key moments that paved the way for his admission to the Royal College of Art. Tune in as they delve into topics such as cultural identity, feelings of isolation, and the obstacles artists encounter in remaining authentic to their vision.
Episode Content:
The Early Years and Moving to the Bronx (00:01:09): Osaretin’s move from Nigeria to the Bronx and his early education.Discovering Art in the Bronx (00:03:21): How a mentor sparked Osaretin’s passion for painting.Applying to Yale and Acceptance (00:15:38): Osaretin’s Yale journey and overcoming skepticism.The Struggle with Identity (00:17:34): Embracing his Nigerian heritage amid challenges.Navigating Stereotypes and Expectations (00:18:35): Facing pressure to conform in the art world.A Turning Point in London (00:21:10): Acceptance to the Royal College of Art changed his career.Balancing Personal and Professional Success (00:31:09): Navigating friendships amidst perceived success.Isolation and Dark Art (00:33:06): Osaretin’s struggle with isolation leading to darker art.Struggle with Relatability and Authenticity (00:37:27): Balancing relatability and authenticity in art.Perception and Identity (00:39:53): Exploring perception, identity, and societal molds.Cultural Identity and Resistance (00:45:43): Reflecting on cultural identity and resisting the urge to prove oneself.Immigrant Experience & Challenges of Race and Identity (00:48:50): Shared immigrant experiences and the impact of race and identity.
Website and Social Media Links:Website: www.osaretin.comInstagram:  osaretin.ugiagbe

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, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
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"
"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.
Connect with me:
Website | Twitter | Instagram 
Support the show:
Merch from Redbubble | Make a Donation 


★ Support this podcast ★

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lee interviews interdisciplinary artist Desmond Beach. They discuss Desmond's art, which addresses race, identity, and social justice, aiming to heal and uplift the black community. Desmond works in various mediums, influenced by his Baltimore upbringing, church experiences, and figures like James Baldwin. He talks about the impact of his family's support on his art, the resonance his work has with audiences, and the challenges of being a black artist. They also explore the role of art in sparking dialogue on racial trauma, with Rob emphasizing the importance of such conversations in cities like Baltimore. Desmond reflects on his performance art's evolution, embracing it as a public practice infused with ancestral connections and cultural heritage. 🎨🎙️
Episode Content:
Glasses and identity (00:00:53) Discussion about wearing glasses and the identity of being an artist.Influences on art (00:10:35) Desmond discusses the influence of James Baldwin, everyday people, and family on his artistic sensibilities.Unpaid Journeyman (00:16:01) Desmond reflects on his childhood and the support he received to pursue his artistic interests.Recognition of Art (00:17:35) Desmond discusses the rewarding aspect of his art being recognized for its deeper meaning and impact on viewers.Impact of Trauma in Art (00:27:13) Desmond discusses the influence of real-life situations and trauma on his work, particularly related to the experiences of black individuals.Baltimore's Multifaceted Nature (00:30:50) Desmond and Rob discuss the multifaceted nature of Baltimore and the importance of authentic representation through art.Releasing Trauma (00:34:20) Desmond shares his experiences of visiting sites of trauma for Black bodies and his mission to release trauma for collective freedom.Baltimore as a Leader (00:36:18) Desmond emphasizes the potential of Baltimore and its people to become leaders, drawing parallels to the story of Moses.Performance as Healing (00:40:40) Desmond explains how performance is a crucial part of his art practice, particularly in honoring his grandmother and expressing gratitude.Ancestral Influence (00:49:01) Desmond shares how he incorporates ancestral guidance and recognition into his artistic process.Key Takeaways:
Art can be a powerful tool for addressing and healing racial and social injustices.Family support can significantly influence an artist's confidence and the development of their work.Engaging with art can facilitate important conversations about racial trauma and identity.Performance art can serve as a means to connect with one's cultural heritage and honor ancestral history.Website: www.desmondbeach.comSocial Media Links:Instagram: desmondbeachLinkedIn: Desmond (Artist_Activist) Beach
If you were inspired by our conversation with the incredibly talented Desmond Beach, please take a moment to explore and support his work. Visit Desmond's website to dive deeper into his powerful art that speaks volumes on race, identity, and social justice. Don't forget to follow him on social media to stay updated on his latest projects and exhibitions. Your support means the world to artists like Desmond.
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Thank you for listening, and thank you for your support! 🙌

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, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
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In this episode of the Truth in This Art podcast, host Rob Lee talks with Maurice James Jr., a self-taught contemporary artist and graphic designer from Washington, DC. They discuss Maurice's creative process, his strategic planning for art exhibitions, and the influence of cities like DC and Philadelphia on his work. Maurice emphasizes the importance of truth and real history in his art, aiming to challenge perceptions and maintain authenticity. They also explore the concept of creative fasting, the role of comedy and satire in black art, and the impact of different environments on creativity. Additionally, they share a nostalgic moment over their love for wrestling. Maurice's commitment to integrity and the representation of black narratives in his work is a central theme throughout the conversation.
Episode Content:
Art as Propaganda (00:02:05) Exploring the concept of propaganda in art and its power to reshape perceptions and spark conversations.The First Art Piece (00:05:19) Reflecting on the moment when the artist realized his work was a form of art and the significance of professional recognition.Teaching Through Creativity (00:11:32) Exploring the role of teaching and sharing knowledge in the creative process, and the importance of crafting meaningful conversations.Functional Art (00:12:26) Discussing the functionality of art and the artist's intention to create thought-provoking work with a purpose.Revolutionary Energy (00:16:17) Sharing the artist's experiences and the impact of his work on the theme of trust within the black community.Ideation and Planning (00:18:23) Discussing the strategic approach to planning episodes and guest appearances, focusing on the ideation phase.Artistic Inspiration and Visual Messaging (00:21:07) Exploring the inspiration behind the Underground Railroad show and the use of visual messaging to convey historical and modern concepts.Representation and Messaging in Art (00:23:20) Exploring the use of historical and cultural representation in art to convey deeper messaging and meaning.Comedy and Satire in Media (00:25:13) Discussion about the role of comedy and satire in media, particularly within the context of black representation and messaging.Artistic Expression and Authenticity (00:35:32) Discussion of the role of authenticity and honesty in artistic expression, particularly within the context of different urban environments.Perception and Interpretation of Art (00:36:50) Exploring the varied perceptions and interpretations of art by different audiences, including the influence of audience engagement on artistic expression.Non-negotiables in working with galleries (00:38:00) The speaker talks about his non-negotiables when working with galleries and the importance of maintaining honesty in his work.Creative fasting and resetting (00:44:14) James shares his strategies for stepping away from their creative work to reset and decompress.Balancing work and personal life (00:47:06) James and Rob discuss the challenges of managing a busy schedule and finding time for personal life and relaxation.Key Takeaways:
1. Authenticity in art is crucial for challenging perceptions and representing real history.2. Strategic planning is key to successfully organizing and presenting art exhibitions.3. Creative environments, like cities, can significantly influence an artist's work and creativity.4. Incorporating elements like comedy and satire can enrich black art and convey powerful messages.
Website and Social Media Links:Website: www.mauricejamesjr.comInstagram: art4theblackmarket_
Link to the first episode with Maurice.
If you enjoyed this insightful conversation with Maurice James Jr., please take a moment to visit and support his incredible work. Head over to his website to dive deeper into his artistry and follow him on social media to stay updated with his latest projects. Your engagement means the world to artists like Maurice.
Don't forget to show some love for the Truth in This Art podcast as