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

South Side Frank: Embracing Absurd Realism in Art In this engaging episode, host Rob Lee sits down with the talented Frank Lawson, a.k.a. South Side Frank, a renowned illustrator and cartoonist celebrated for his distinctive absurd realism. They chat about Frank's journey in the art world, his inspirations, and his drive to infuse his creations with meaningful messages. Frank opens up about artists he looks up to and gives us a peek into the local comic scene. The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as they address real-world issues like gentrification and the rising cost of living. Frank recounts his foray into digital art amid the pandemic and talks about "Poctober," his initiative to spotlight black punk artists. They discuss the power of embracing individuality in art and the cathartic power of creative expression. Wrapping up, Frank dives into the world of misunderstood villains and shares details about his sketchbook, which fans can find on his website. Episode Highlights:
Welcome to the show (00:00:10)Host Rob Lee kicks off the podcast, warmly welcoming listeners and introducing today's guest, the talented illustrator and cartoonist, South Side Frank. Art as a Calling (00:03:35)Frank opens up about his deep-rooted love for art and the journey that led him to become the artist he is today. Childhood Inspirations (00:06:50)Frank fondly recalls the early influences on his creativity, from his father's artwork to his fascination with television and cartoons. Mentors and Muses (00:12:53)Frank reflects on the profound impact that artist Dawud Anyabwile had on his work and discusses the significance of representation in the arts. Broadening Horizons (00:16:36)Frank recounts his eye-opening encounters with underground comics and the lasting influence of trailblazers like Robert Crumb and Harvey Pekar. Defining "Absurd Realism" (00:34:22)Frank explains his distinctive artistic style, "absurd realism," which captures his view of the world peppered with pop culture nods. Digital Evolution (00:39:13)Frank describes his transition to digital art-making on the iPad, a change accelerated by the pandemic's constraints. Envisioning the Future (00:56:20)Potential reimaginings of childhood cartoons like "Pole Position" and "Robotech" are pondered, along with the power of bringing such ideas to life. Key Takeaways:
1. Embrace your unique artistic style to make a statement and stand out in the creative world. 2. Recognize the influence of societal issues, such as gentrification, on local art scenes and artists' lives. 3. Discover the therapeutic power of creativity in navigating challenging times like the pandemic. 4. Explore the perspectives of misunderstood characters to add depth and complexity to your work. Website and Socials:southsidefrank.comInstagram: southsidefrank_0.2 Supporting the Arts:  If you loved diving into the world of absurd realism with South Side Frank and enjoyed our conversation on everything from the therapeutic power of art to the nuances of punk culture, then don't miss out on the chance to explore more of Frank's incredible work. Head over to his website to check out his sketchbook and follow him on social media to stay updated on his latest projects. Your support means the world to artists like Frank, so please take a moment to rate and review this episode, letting us know your thoughts. And if you want to help keep these insightful conversations coming, consider supporting our Patreon. Your contribution helps us continue to bring unique voices and stories to the forefront. 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.
Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart
Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with add

Bernard Farley: The Journey of Black Techno Matters 
This is an episode you don't want to miss! Host Rob Lee sits down with the incredibly talented Bernard Farley, aka OutputMessage - a self-taught artist and founder of the groundbreaking Black Techno Matters initiative. Get ready to be taken on a musical journey as Farley shares how his love for techno was sparked by his mom's DJ mixes when he was young. You'll hear all about his deep passion for live improvisation and the authentic creative expression it allows.
But that's not all! Farley dives into the powerful story behind starting Black Techno Matters - his mission to create a community celebrating black artists in techno while reclaiming the genre's black roots. The conversation gets real as they discuss the challenges artists face and explore how visuals and technology impact music. Farley also opens up about his unique perspective on what true success means - it's all about being content and leaving a positive artistic legacy behind. His insights will leave you inspired!
Whether you're a techno fan or just love hearing about creativity in action, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Tune in for genuine conversations and a fascinating look into the mind of a trailblazing artist.
Episode Highlights:
Authentic Introduction (00:01:17)
Bernard Farley presents himself as an experienced artist, passionate about creating and sharing musical and dance experiences.
Love for Music (00:08:05)
Farley discusses his love for music, influenced by sonic liberation technology, and his focus on live improvisation.
Founding Black Techno Matters (00:17:09)
Farley explains the origin of Black Techno Matters, addressing the underrepresentation of black artists in techno and promoting diversity in the genre.
Techno as Black Music (00:21:56)
Discussion on techno's roots in black music, the need for awareness among black communities, and efforts to educate and raise awareness.
"Blackness is Revolutionary" Playlist (00:25:36)
Highlighting the significance of the playlist featuring black artists, showcasing diverse music genres.
Jazz Influence and Creativity (00:34:08)
Farley draws parallels between jazz and creative expression, embracing varied song lengths and adopting a punk rock approach to innovation.
Artistic Identity and Photography (00:36:00)
Farley discusses how his photography background influences his music and enhances the overall experience.
Rule for Success (00:48:15)
Sharing his personal definition of success, emphasizing contentment and leaving a positive impact.
Key Takeaways:
Authentic creative expression is crucial for personal fulfillment and artistic innovation.Recognizing and celebrating the black roots of techno is essential for fostering diversity and inclusivity in the genre.Live improvisation can lead to genuine and impactful musical experiences.True success lies in contentment and leaving a positive legacy through art.🌐 Website: www.blacktechnomatters.orgSocial Media Links: Instagram: blacktechnomatters
Supporting the Arts:
If you were inspired by Bernard Farley's insights and want to dive deeper into his world, don't hesitate to visit his website and follow him on social media. Your support fuels the creative fire for artists like Bernard, and every click, like, and share helps to sustain the vibrant community he's a part of. But don't stop there! Show your love for the Truth in This Art podcast by rating and reviewing this episode. Your feedback is invaluable and helps to spread the word about the incredible stories we share.
And if you're feeling generous, consider supporting our Patreon. Your contribution keeps the conversation going and allows us to bring even more enlightening content your way. Engage, connect, and be a part of the artistic journey today!

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 cha

In this episode of "The Truth in This Art," 🎙️ host Rob Lee interviews artist and educator Jamaal Barber. They discuss Jamaal's artistic journey, the influence of his Southern upbringing, and the power of creation. Jamaal shares his inspiration from Romare Bearden and the emotional aspects of the artistic process. They explore the importance of authenticity in their work and the challenges faced in striving for excellence. Jamaal also talks about his podcast "Studio Noise," which provides a platform for black artists to discuss their work and experiences. The conversation highlights the dedication required in art and podcasting, the joy found in the process, and the value of community within the arts. 🎨✨
Episode Highlights:
Influences and Connection to Art (00:05:30) This part of the conversation is about influences such as Romare Bearden and the connection to Jamaal Barber's life experiences.Discovering Black Art (00:15:08) Jamaal shares his journey to finding artistic representation of blackness and his connection to Romare Bearden's work.Exploring New Techniques (00:23:35) Jamaal shares his approach to experimenting with new techniques and practices, addressing imposter syndrome and insecurity.Maintaining Humility (00:28:16) Rob and Jamaal discuss the importance of humility, self-awareness, and the responsibility of creating meaningful conversations.Studio Noise Podcast (00:30:25) Jamaal discusses the importance of showcasing emerging artists and having personal conversations about blackness in their work.Interviewing Emerging Artists (00:32:03) Jamaal shares his passion for interviewing both established and emerging artists, highlighting the value of capturing their journey.Building Personal Connections (00:35:28) Rob and Jamaal discuss the personal connections and friendships formed through podcast interviews and interactions within the art community.Curiosity and Artistic Process (00:38:06) Jamaal emphasizes the importance of curiosity in understanding artists' decision-making processes and their fascination with their work.The Test of Dedication (00:44:13) Jamaal shares a story of an artist's lifelong dedication to art, emphasizing the test of dedication and eventual recognition in the art world.Stamina for Podcasting (00:45:15) Jamaal and Rob tackle the commitment and stamina required for podcasting, considering the number of episodes and maintaining audience engagement.Discussing Art with Influential People (00:48:47) Jamaal discusses his engagement in art discussions with influential individuals, such as mentor Charlie Palmer and fellow artists at the printmaking studio.Recent Music Recommendation (00:50:31) Sharing the most recent music or album recommendation, in this case, "Black Classical Music" by Yusef Days, with African influences. 🎶🌍
Key Takeaways:
1. Your upbringing and cultural background can significantly influence your artistic style and themes.2. Studying the work of past masters like Romare Bearden can provide valuable inspiration for your own creative process.3. Authenticity in your work is crucial for creating art that resonates with both the creator and the audience.4. Building a community, such as through a podcast, can be a powerful way to support and elevate the voices of underrepresented artists.
Website  and Social Media Links:jbarberstudio.comLinkedIn: Jamaal BarberX: @JBarberStudioInstagram: jbarberstudioFacebook: JBarberStudio
If you enjoyed this insightful conversation with Jamaal Barber, I encourage you to show your support by visiting his website and following him on social media. Discover more about his incredible work and join the conversation. Don't forget to take a moment to rate and review this episode—it truly helps! ⭐ And if you're feeling generous, consider supporting us on Patreon. Your support is invaluable and allows us to continue bringing you engaging content and exceptional guests like Jamaal. Thank you for listening, and let's keep the arts c

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! 🎧🙏

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