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

In this installment of "The Truth in This Art," Rob Lee sits down with photographer Faith Couch to explore the influence of her southern heritage on her narrative-driven work. Faith opens up about her commitment to capturing the nuances of black daily life, striving to represent these stories authentically. She talks about the significance of working with others based on mutual respect and the lessons learned during her final year at MICA, as well as her move to Yale. Throughout the conversation, Faith offers her perspective on creativity, the value of honesty, and the role of community and introspection in her life. The episode also ventures into Faith's hobbies beyond the lens and wraps up with her thoughts on discovering a sense of belonging within and the beauty of embracing life's shifts.
Episode Highlights:
Southern Roots and Their Impact (00:00:48) Faith discusses how her southern heritage influences her creative process and artistic expression.A Lifelong Affinity for Photography (00:05:00) Faith reminisces about her early experiences with photography and the influences that shaped her passion.Filling the Void in Black Narratives (00:11:00) Faith talks about her aim to provide a more complete portrayal of black life through her photography.Celebrating the Quotidian in Black Life (00:16:00) The importance of documenting everyday moments in the lives of black individuals is discussed in this part.The Ethics of Collaboration and Consent (00:18:00) Faith dives into the importance of ethical practices and consent in her photographic work.Navigating Editorial vs. Fine Art Photography (00:21:00) Faith reflects on the differences between editorial and fine art photography and her approach to each.The Quest for Authenticity (00:24:30) In this part, the conversation focuses on Faith's commitment to capturing genuine moments and true emotions.Crafting a Sense of Belonging (00:51:00) Faith discusses the concept of creating a sense of home and staying grounded regardless of location.Key Takeaways:
1. Embrace your roots – they can deeply influence your creativity and authenticity in your work.2. Early passions can inform and shape your career path – nurture them.3. Strive to fill gaps in representation – your work can contribute to a more inclusive narrative.4. Celebrate the ordinary – everyday moments can hold extraordinary significance.
Website and Social Media Links:aithcouch.comX: @FaithCouch5Instagram: blackpowerprincessLinkedIn: Faith Couch
Thank you for tuning into this insightful episode of "The Truth in This Art" with the talented Faith Couch. If Faith's journey and perspective resonated with you, we encourage you to explore her work further by visiting her website and following her on social media. Your support means the world to artists like Faith, and it helps to amplify the narratives that need to be heard. While you're at it, please take a moment to rate and review this episode—it helps us reach more listeners like you. And if you want to contribute to the growth of our platform and get access to exclusive content, consider supporting us on Patreon. Your generosity fuels our mission to bring these important conversations to light. Thank you for being a part of our community and for your continued 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.
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

In this episode of the "The Truth in This Art" podcast, host Rob Lee converses with Cory Lee Stowers, a cultural anthropologist, visual artist, and curator. They tackle Cory's background in graffiti and his role in the DC hip-hop scene. Stowers discusses his creative influences and the significance of preserving artistic legacies. He shares the challenges of leading organizations like Art B.L.O.C. DC and DC Murals, emphasizing the need for sustainable funding and aligned partnerships. This episode explores the evolution of mural art, the use of technology to create interactive murals and the cultural impact of public murals. Cory also touches on the historical debate over African American visual identity at Howard University and the importance of impactful community murals.
Episode Highlight:
Painted Beginnings (00:01:30): Cory takes us back to his roots, painting a vivid picture of his early life and how he was drawn into the vibrant graffiti and hip-hop culture of Washington DC.Artistic Inspirations (00:04:00): Remembering the past, Stowers shares heartfelt stories about the people and experiences that have sculpted his artistic perspective and continue to influence his creative journey.The Artistic Grind (00:10:00): Rob and Cory engage in a candid discussion about the grit behind the glamour, exploring the obstacles and triumphs that come with bringing ambitious art projects to life.Mural Dreamscape (00:20:00): With an eye on the future, Cory outlines his visionary plans for transforming DC Murals into a social enterprise that not only beautifies but also benefits the community.The Funding Puzzle (00:22:00): The conversation takes a pragmatic turn as Stowers addresses the intricate challenge of weaving together funding and partnerships to support his artistic endeavors.Creative Alchemy (00:20:30): Cory offers a glimpse into his creative sanctum, revealing how he approaches the art-making process and fosters meaningful connections with the community through his work.Murals That Speak (00:30:00): The power of murals to tell the untold stories is brought to the forefront, highlighting their significance in preserving and sharing cultural narratives.Art in the Digital Age (00:35:00): Reflecting on the intersection of art and technology, Cory discusses how modern advancements are revolutionizing the way murals are created.Key Takeaways:
1. Graffiti and hip-hop culture have played a significant role in shaping the artistic landscape of urban environments like DC.2. The preservation of artistic legacies is crucial for cultural continuity and understanding the historical context of art forms.3. Sustainable funding and strong partnerships are essential for the success and longevity of arts organizations.4. Public murals are not just art, they are powerful tools for cultural expression and community engagement.
Website and Social Media Links:coryleestowers.comX: @RockCreekLeeInstagram: rockcreekleeLinkedIn: Cory Lee Stowers
Hey everyone, if you were as inspired by Cory Lee Stowers' stories and insights as I was, let's show some love! Head over to his website and follow his journey on social media to keep up with the incredible work he's doing in the art world. And if you enjoyed our deep dive today on "The Truth in This Art," please take a moment to rate and review this episode. Your feedback means the world to us and helps others find these meaningful conversations. Plus, if you're feeling generous and want to support the podcast further, consider joining our Patreon community. Every bit of support helps us continue to bring these important stories to light. Thanks for listening, and let's keep the conversation going!

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 Faceboo

In this episode of "The Truth in This Art," 🎙️ Rob Lee has a heartfelt and enlightening chat with the wonderfully talented Tanya Everett. Tanya is not just an actor, but also a playwright, TV writer, and speaker, making her a true multi-hyphenate artist. 🎭 They dive into her diverse career, her love for storytelling, and why embracing your uniqueness is so important. 🌟
Tanya opens up about her personal journey, including her powerful TEDx talk on grief and her passion for travel. ✈️ They also touch on the collaborative magic of the arts, the healing power of rituals, and the idea of chosen family and community. Tanya's thoughts on creativity, connection, and honoring one's roots are sure to resonate deeply with you. 🌺
📚 Episode Highlights:
Embracing Uniqueness (00:04:20): Tanya shares how she celebrates her unique identity and the transformative power of theater. Lessons from Early Opportunities (00:16:16): She reflects on the lessons from her early creative endeavors in writing, movement, and dance. Challenges in the Arts Industry (00:18:19): Tanya discusses the industry's often overlooked focus on the well-being of its people. The Joy of Collaboration (00:23:45): She talks about the joy and fulfillment that comes from working with others on creative projects. Reflecting on Loss and Aging (00:32:27): Tanya shares her personal experiences with loss and her thoughts on aging and societal pressures. Investigating Chosen Family (00:37:43): She explores the importance of chosen family and building supportive, reciprocal relationships. The Grief Dance and Personal Growth (00:45:50): Tanya's emotional journey in preparing her TED talk on grief. Rituals of Grieving (00:54:38): Tanya discusses her personal grieving rituals and the need for evolving funeral practices. Challenges of Navigating Social Norms (00:58:53): Navigating societal expectations and feeling significant outside traditional family structures. Embracing Uniqueness and Loss (01:00:06): Tanya talks about using storytelling to process loss and celebrate individuality. Reimagining Gender Roles (01:06:12): Challenging traditional gender roles and redefining strengths in relationships and families. Incorporating Humor in Grief (01:09:25): She discusses about using humor to address themes of grief and societal biases. Seeking Inspiration and Motivation (01:17:29): Tanya shares her sources of inspiration, from other artists to nature. Overcoming Stage Fright (01:21:04): Tanya’s go-to tactics for overcoming stage fright with physical movement and grounding techniques. Creating Laughter in Performances (01:23:26): Rob and Tanya discuss the different types of laughter they aim to evoke from audiences. Favorite Travel Destination (01:24:49): Tanya reminisces about her favorite travel spot, Greece, and the connections she made there. ⭐ Key Takeaways:
1. Embrace your uniqueness to enrich your creative endeavors.2. Collaboration in the arts can lead to profound and impactful work.3. Rituals can be a powerful tool in coping with and processing grief.4. Building a chosen family and community can provide essential support and connection.
🌐 Website and Social Media:🔗 www.tanyaeverett.com📸 Instagram: tanya.everett 🐦 X: Tanya Everett💼 LinkedIn: Tanya Everett
Link to TEDx Talks: 🎤Learning the Grief Dance
If Tanya Everett’s powerful stories and insights touched you, please show your support! 💖 Visit her website to explore more of her work and follow her on social media to keep up with her latest projects. 🌟 If you enjoyed this conversation, we'd love it if you could rate and review this episode. ⭐ Your feedback is invaluable. And if you want to help us continue bringing you these meaningful conversations, consider supporting our show on Patreon. Your contribution helps us continue to bring these meaningful conversations to life. Thank you for listening and for your support! 🎧🙏

This p

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