The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

If you’ve ever danced your heart out at a sold-out basement party or streamed a late-night DJ set on your phone, you’ve felt the pulse of Kotic Couture’s world. In this episode, Baltimore Magazine’s 2023 Best Local Artist shares how she swapped rap verses for turntables, co-founded one of the city’s most inclusive monthly events, and turned a bedroom-studio experiment into the Prototype album—all while building a fiercely supportive community of fellow Black queer creatives. VERSIONCatch Kotic Couture's first appearance on the podcast here: This episode was recorded during a season dedicated to creative growth, transformation, and honoring the foundations that helped build Baltimore’s culture. Photo: Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Ceramic-based artist and educator Ara Koh returns to The Truth In This Art for her second conversation with Rob Lee. Known for her layered clay paintings and material-intensive installations, Ara shares how her practice has deepened through repetition, research, and unexpected cracks—both literal and metaphorical. In this episode, Ara talks about processing wild clay from her travels, the physicality of working with heavy materials, and the importance of fitness in sustaining her studio life. She reflects on inherited discipline, finding freedom through form, and why staying curious—about geology, textures, or even pickleball—is key to her creative rhythm. Highlights include: 🎧 Want more? Check out Ara Koh’s first interview in the archive—where we talk about her background, early influences, and the foundation of her clay-based work. This interview was recorded in person at Eaton Hotel in Washington, D.C. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Curator, writer, and executive director Jessica Bell Brown returns to reflect on her evolving leadership at the Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University. In this conversation, we talk about openness as a strategy, the role of listening in shaping institutions, and what it means to make space for experimentation in times of uncertainty. Jessica shares how porosity, risk, and care shape her curatorial and executive approach—from expanding access beyond traditional art forms to launching chef residencies and community media programs at the ICA. We discuss the influence of her time at MoMA and the Baltimore Museum of Art, the power of contemporary art to respond to crisis, and why joy and curiosity remain central to her vision. Topics Covered: 🎧 Explore more conversations like this in our archive. 📍 ICA VCU Website: https://icavcu.org Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Guggenheim Fellow, artist, producer, and educator Kokayi returns to unpack the layers of sound, storytelling, and being a vessel for cultural memory. Since our first conversation, Kokayi has pushed deeper into multidisciplinary work—blending sound design, improvisation, code, and community-building. This conversation tracks his reflections on legacy, experimentation, and why he’s wary of institutions that try to own culture. We talk about what’s next, how he stays rooted in practice, and what it means to be free in a creative economy that rewards conformity. 🎧 Revisit Kokayi’s earlier episode to hear how his practice has evolved—and where he’s taking it next. SEE A BODY - KOKAYI FROM BLACKNESS & THE INFINITE POTENTIAL WELL Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Artist, educator, and Afro Charities Executive Director Savannah Wood joins to reflect on legacy, growth, and leading one of Baltimore’s most ambitious cultural preservation efforts. Savannah has overseen major milestones—most notably, the $16M redevelopment of the historic Upton Mansion, future home of the Afro-American Newspaper (AFRO) archives. We talk about curiosity as a compass, how archives become creative tools, and why joy, movement, and cultural memory drive her work forward. Topics Covered: 🎧 Explore more conversations like this in our archive. 📸 Photo by Schaun Champion Resources: Silent AuctionWildest Dreams Benefit for Afro Charities – June 7 TicketsAfro Charities Website@afrocharities@savannahinpublic Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Artist Lewinale Havette returns for a conversation on art, spirit, and shedding constraints. Recorded at Palo Gallery during NYC Art Week, Lewinale reflects on her evolution since 2022—from early paintings shaped by language and migration to her latest abstract works rooted in instinct, spirituality, and ancestral memory. We discuss authenticity, pushing limits, and why she’s letting go of surface-level meaning in favor of deeper emotional truth. for everyone🎧 Be sure to listen to Lewinale’s first episode from 2022 to hear the full arc of her artistic growth. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Director and choreographer Sam Landa joins for his first appearance on the podcast to talk about reimagining what circus can be—and how LIQUID uses punk aesthetics, narrative, and high-stakes performance to deliver something unforgettable. As co-founder of New York Circus Project, Sam blends circus, theater, and dance to push creative boundaries. We recorded this at Union Market District in DC just after the premiere of LIQUID. Sam shares how his training as an aerialist, studies in computer science, and passion for problem-solving come together to shape a bold vision for contemporary circus. LIQUID🎧 Experience the energy and vision behind LIQUID, now running at Union Market District through June 7. Tickets and info at newyorkcircusproject.org. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Artist and educator Hae Won Sohn returns for a reflective conversation on process, adaptability, and making art that holds up—materially and conceptually. Now based in Queens, Hae Won shares what’s evolved since her 2021 Sondheim Prize win and how her process-first approach has deepened through teaching, repurposing materials, and balancing art with life. Recorded after her Surface Tension exhibition in Baltimore, this episode covers the intersections of sculpture, craft, and creative discipline. 🎧 Be sure to revisit Hae Won Sohn’s first episode to hear the roots of this evolving body of work. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Shaolin Jazz co-founder DJ 2-Tone Jones—one half of the duo behind the genre-bending brand—returns to reflect on growth, alignment, and his continued love for blending film and music through Can I Kick It? Shaolin JazzCan I Kick It?Check out Shaolin Jazz's and DJ 2-Tone Jones’ first appearance on the podcast — recorded in 2020 — here. Join DJ 2-Tone Jones this Saturday at Creative Alliance for Can I Kick It?, featuring Monkey Man—an adrenaline-fueled Indian revenge thriller re-scored live with hip-hop, soul, and cinematic beats. 🎧🎥 Doors at 7PM, film starts at 7:30. Grab your tickets now: creativealliance.org/event/can-i-kick-it-monkey-man This episode was recorded during a season dedicated to creative growth, transformation, and honoring the foundations that helped build Baltimore’s culture. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Baltimore’s award-winning documentary filmmaker, public historian, and Baltimore City Hall curator Joe Tropea returns to share how personal connection guides his project choices, why he embraces “ums” and raw moments in the edit, and what it takes to build strong creative partnerships—from abandoned true-crime concepts to a new mayoral portrait gallery. Following personal connection:Embracing imperfections:Knowing when to pivot:Keys to collaboration:Curating City Hall:Rapid-fire reflections:Catch Joe Tropea’s first conversation here: Whether you’re interviewing, filming, or curating, Joe’s insights will inspire you to seek out the stories that matter—and tell them with heart. Photograph by Elena Volkova Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at The Mystery of Irma Vep – A Penny Dreadful at Everyman Theatre, where director, choreographer, and arts educator Joseph Ritsch brings gothic farce, drag, and campy spectacle together in a production bursting with sharp humor and political edge. In this episode, Joseph joins Rob Lee to unpack why Charles Ludlam’s cult classic still hits hard today — blending outrageous comedy with queer history, lightning-fast costume changes, and a message that feels more urgent than ever. Check out the THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP: A PENNY DREADFUL: Director Interview Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

You know those moments when a photograph or film clip feels like it’s speaking hidden truths? New School professor and interdisciplinary artist Isaiah Winters returns to share how rigorous archival research fuels his photography, film, and mixed-media practice. From earning his MFA at Parsons to documenting pro-Palestinian campus protests and exposing housing inequities, Isaiah shows how historical fragments—old photographs, 16 mm and 35 mm film, collages—become living narratives that confront nationalism, indexicality, and structural racism. MFA to professor:Archival layering:“This Land Is Your Land” revisited:Unpacking housing myths:On-campus documentation:Analog expansion:Catch Isaiah Winters’s first conversation here: Whether you’re an educator, activist, or lover of visual storytelling, Isaiah’s approach will open new pathways for seeing archives as living tools—and may inspire your next creative act. Photograph by Isaiah Winters Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

You know that moment when a painting feels so real you swear the subject might blink? Hyper-realist portraitist Monica Ikegwu returns to reveal the behind-the-scenes rigor—hours of glazing, precise lighting choices, and minimalist backgrounds—that turn a single photograph into a living, breathing canvas. Join Monica as she unpacks her journey from MFA student at the New York Academy of Art to international exhibitions, and how her “Just Say Yes” ethos keeps her pushing creative boundaries. Catch Monica Ikegwu’s first appearance on the podcast here: Whether you paint, draw, or simply love a great portrait, Monica’s process will give you a fresh appreciation for the craft—and maybe inspire your next creative leap. Photograph by Lia Latty Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

You’ve probably admired one of Ky Vassor’s murals without even knowing it—now he’s back to pull back the curtain on how those vibrant public artworks, pop-up workshops, and neighborhood installations all began with a passion for community and a sprinkle of hustle. In this episode, Baltimore’s interdisciplinary artist and Galerie Myrtis Assistant Director walks us through the unlikely lessons he learned bartending, volunteering, and designing street-team campaigns before deciding to earn an MFA in Community Arts—and how every step shaped his mission to make creativity part of daily life. Catch Ky Vassor’s first appearance on the podcast here: Whether you’re an artist, educator, or simply curious about the power of public art, this chat will leave you inspired to look at your own neighborhood in a whole new light. Photo: Phillip Muriel Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Baltimore’s own DJ and producer James Nasty returns to share how stepping away from substances sparked new clarity, how he built Ecstatic Dance Baltimore into an inclusive, sober dance movement, and why guiding crowds through music remains his driving passion—from late-night club sets to substance-free floors. Finding clarity through sobriety:Ecstatic Dance Baltimore:Mastering crowd movement:Money gigs vs. passion projects:Lessons from 15+ years:Underground resurgence:Catch James Nasty’s first appearance on the podcast — the very first episode ever — here: The Truth In This Art - Episode #1 | James Nasty. This episode was recorded during a season dedicated to creative growth, transformation, and honoring the foundations that helped build Baltimore’s culture. Photo: Emily Kulp Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Abstract neurographic artist Ayiana Viviana shares how reconnecting with Puerto Rico, battling inner struggles, and choosing self-trust transformed her art—and her life—with new courage, clarity, and creative depth. Want to hear more about Ayiana’s early creative journey? Listen to her first conversation from 2023 here: Art and Emotion | Ayiana Viviana's Porter's Creative Exploration. This episode was recorded during a season celebrating growth, resilience, and the artists who show us what it means to turn life into art. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Contemporary figurative painter Xenia Gray unpacks how post-Soviet Siberia, spiritual retreats, and life in D.C. converge in canvases that pulse with raw feeling. Curious about the journey behind her latest series The Great Silence? Hit play, then browse her work at xeniagray.art. This episode was recorded at my creative home away from home, a hotel that's also a vibrant cultural center. Check out Eaton DC here. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Founder and director Tony Gittens returns with the inside story of steering the Washington DC International Film Festival—now in its 39th year—through last-minute venue shake-ups, budget poker with distributors, and a mission that never changes: bring global cinema to everyone in the nation’s capital. Curious how his perspective has evolved? Catch Tony’s 2024 interview here → https://share.transistor.fm/s/25813f0d Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

This episode was recorded at my creative home away from home, a hotel that's also a vibrant cultural center. Check out Eaton DC here. Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, I'm happy to welcome back designer Jerrill Sankey of Jerrill Sankey Headwear. It's been a few years since Jerrill was on the show (when he was known for Creative King), so it's a great opportunity to reconnect and trace his evolution as a designer. We explore Jerrill's creative journey, from the influence of 90s pop culture and magazines like Vogue on his distinctive aesthetic, to his perspectives on balancing artistry and craftsmanship. Jerrill shares his thoughts on developing a personal style, the dedication it takes to build a brand, and his observations on the current creative scene. If you're into fashion and culture, the story of a designer's growth, or the commitment required to pursue your passion, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation with Jerrill Sankey! Host: Rob Lee Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production: Photos: Rob LeeSupport the podcast Fundraisinghttps://www.fracturedatlas.orghttps://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialhttps://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enhttps://www.thetruthinthisart.com/Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★