The Truth In This Art - Creative Conversations

Welcome to The Truth In This Art. In this episode, host Rob Lee talks with TJ Smith. TJ has retired from being a police commander and was a press secretary. He has many years of experience in law enforcement, crisis communications, and public service. In our talk, TJ shares: TJ believes it's important to tell the truth. This shapes how he works and lives. Tune in to hear his inspiring story today! 🎧🌟 Please Rate & Review this Podcast to Support the Best! 🌟🎧 Creators & Guests Rob LeeTJ SmithRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to a new episode of The Truth in This Art! Join our host, Rob Lee, as he dives into an inspiring conversation with Robert Witkowski, the Creative Director at WHERE Y'AT Magazine. In this episode, Robert shares: WHERE Y'AT MagazineJoin us for this enriching exploration of creativity and culture. 🎧🌟 Please Rate & Review this Podcast to Support the Best! 🌟🎧 Creators & Guests Rob LeeRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join me, Rob Lee, host of The Truth in This Art podcast, as I interview the talented Dominique Arce, aka Domo. We explore Domo's journey as an aspiring illustrator on the El Paso-Juarez border, from childhood inspirations to their unique creative process. Discover how this environment shapes Domo's art and the profound themes they explore. Uncover their artistic style, diverse inspirations, and unwavering motivation. Don't miss this captivating episode on the creative process. 🎧🌟 Please Rate & Review this Podcast to Support the Best! 🌟🎧 Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of "The Truth In This Art" podcast, host Rob Lee welcomes Ari Pluznik, the lead singer-songwriter and music director of Ari and the Buffalo Kings. They engage in an enlightening conversation exploring the intersections of music, community, mindfulness, and the vast potential of the human spirit. Ari shares insights into their role as the creative force behind Ari and the Buffalo Kings, discussing the band's unique sound and their impactful work within the community. As a Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, Ari delves into the profound connection between mindfulness, meditation, creativity, and the human experience. The discussion highlights the transformative power of art, the importance of community engagement, and the profound impact of mindfulness practices on the creative process. Join Rob and Ari in this captivating episode as they inspire and provoke thought, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the powerful role art plays in our lives. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Ari Pluznik of Ari and the Buffalo Kings! 🎧🌟 Please Rate & Review this Podcast to Support the Best! 🌟🎧 Photo credit: Micah Wood Creators & Guests Rob LeeAri PluznikRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join host Rob Lee in an interview with Alana Rosa Edwards, a Fashion Model and Photojournalist, on "The Truth in This Art." Alana shares her unique journey and how it influences her work today. Explore her role as a photojournalist, essential skills, and what makes a good photograph. Discover how her experience behind the camera enhances her modeling career. Alana highlights favorite projects and the creative influence of living in The Bronx and Philadelphia. Don't miss this engaging conversation! 🎧🌟 Please Rate & Review this Podcast to Support the Best! 🌟🎧 Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Artist Ariel Cavalcante Foster joins Rob Lee to discuss her journey, exhibitions, and involvement in artist-run initiatives. She shares her work as a consultant, facilitating decolonization and restorative practices. Ariel explores her travels, embodiment studies, and holistic therapy training. Discover how she creates impactful art and consulting experiences in this conversation. Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on "The Truth In This Art" podcast as host Rob Lee sits down with John Perry, a multi-talented artist with a diverse background and a passion for creative exploration. From skateboarding, BMX, graffiti, Punk, and Hip-Hop in his early years to becoming an art teacher, John's artistic journey is filled with fascinating experiences and accomplishments. In this episode, delve into John's creative beginnings and discover his first love in the artistic realm. Explore how his diverse interests and influences shaped his creative path and led him to explore various forms of expression. As an art teacher and accomplished artist, John has had remarkable moments in his career. Hear about his most memorable experiences, including having his work published in "The Art of Modern Rock" and serving as the Art Director for the Record Archive. Gain insights into the impact of these milestones on his artistic journey. One of John's intriguing projects is Lower Deck Cards, a unique endeavor that combines old photographs and baseball cards with his artistic vision. Learn about the origins of Lower Deck Cards and how it has evolved into a continuous source of creative exploration for John and his fellow artists. Discover the process behind sourcing cards and the inspiration that fuels John's ideas for each card. Uncover the intricacies of working on such a small space and how John pushes the boundaries to create captivating and seamless designs. Explore John's constant quest for improvement and how he continually tests his artistic abilities. Gain insights into his unique sources of inspiration and the role of community in his creative journey. Join us as we dive into the mind of John Perry, an artist whose passion for continuous growth and artistic exploration shines through his captivating work. Creators & Guests Rob LeeJohn Perry of Lower Deck CardsRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join host Rob Lee in an engaging episode of "The Truth In This Art" podcast as he sits down with Tonya R. Miller Hall, the Senior Advisor of Art & Culture for the City of Baltimore. Tonya brings a wealth of experience, having collaborated with renowned companies in the fashion, social justice, and lifestyle brand sectors. Discover Tonya's comprehensive approach to brand development, where she transforms fundamental concepts into strategic programs that drive key priorities and accelerate business objectives. With a remarkable track record as the former Chief Marketing & Programs Officer of the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts, Tonya brings invaluable insights into the world of art, culture, and marketing. Beyond her professional endeavors, Tonya is a competitive endurance athlete who finds joy in activities such as boxing and road cycling. Her passion for physical challenges mirrors her drive in the professional realm, creating a unique perspective on achieving goals and pushing boundaries. Tune in to this episode and explore Tonya's captivating journey, as she shares her expertise, experiences, and the secrets behind her successful career. Gain valuable insights into brand development, marketing strategies, and the intersection of art and culture within Baltimore. National Creativity Day This special day was founded to honor and celebrate everyone who creates new things each day Creators & Guests Rob LeeTonya MillerRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on "The Truth In This Art" podcast as we sit down with Dany Chan, Associate Curator of Asian Art at the prestigious Walters Art Museum. Dany's passion for art, curating, and art history has led her on a remarkable journey in the field of Asian art curation. In this episode, we delve into Dany's artistic beginnings and explore the origins of her deep passion for art. Discover how her early experiences shaped her path and ignited her dedication to the world of art. As we explore Dany's career, we uncover her first "art job" and the profound influence it had on her journey as a curator, writer, and art historian. Gain insights into the transformative power of engaging with art and the ways it has shaped Dany's perspective. We also dive into the realm of Asian art curation and the path that led Dany to pursue a career in this field. Hear about her involvement as a co-curator of the exhibition "Across Asia: Arts of Asia and the Islamic World," a groundbreaking installation featuring the Walters' Asian and Islamic art collections. Explore the significance of being a curator in Dany's eyes and how she perceives her role in shaping the narrative and experience of an exhibition like "Across Asia: Arts of Asia and the Islamic World." Discover the intricacies of curatorial work and the process of bringing together diverse collections to create a cohesive and impactful exhibition. Throughout the conversation, we uncover the challenges faced during the curation of "Across Asia: Arts of Asia and the Islamic World" and the strategies employed to overcome them. Dany highlights key themes and narratives explored in the exhibition, emphasizing their importance in showcasing the richness and diversity of Asian and Islamic art. Reflecting on her career journey, Dany shares some of the most rewarding moments and achievements she has experienced as a curator and art scholar. Gain valuable insights into the qualities essential for success in this competitive industry and discover Dany's advice for aspiring curators and art professionals. Join us as we embark on a captivating conversation with Dany Chan, a curator and art scholar who is dedicated to celebrating the beauty and significance of Asian art. Creators & Guests Rob LeeDany ChanRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special episode of Podcasting in Place, host Rob Lee interviews Leanna Wetmore, Dr. Sally Scott, and Dr. Joby Taylor, discussing Baltimore's vibrant arts and culture community. They delve into topics such as creativity, community leadership, and the Baltimore by Baltimore festival. Discover their insights on fostering growth while preserving uniqueness and defining impact. Join the conversation for valuable insights into Baltimore's arts and culture scene. In addition, don't forget to check out the video version of this podcast on YouTube for an immersive visual experience of our engaging conversation. Join us as we dive deep into Baltimore's arts and culture community and gain a fresh perspective on the power of creativity and community leadership. Creators & Guests Rob LeeRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of "The Truth in This Art" podcast, host Rob Lee welcomes special guest Simon Landrein, a talented French illustrator and animator. Rob engages Simon in a fascinating conversation, exploring his background, inspirations, and notable projects. Get ready to delve into the world of animation and illustration with Simon as he shares his insights and experiences. Rob kicks off the interview by giving Simon the space to introduce himself and share his first art experience, as well as his origins. Discover the early influences that shaped Simon's artistic path and ignited his passion for creativity. The conversation then delves into Simon's background and the factors that sparked his interest in animation and illustration. Find out what inspired him to pursue these mediums and how movies and everyday visuals play a significant role in his creative process. Rob dives into Simon's design process, exploring where he begins and how he brings his ideas to life. Uncover the intricacies of Simon's approach as he navigates the use of color and bold lines in his work. Gain valuable insights into his artistic techniques and the choices he makes to create visually striking illustrations. As Simon's work has been featured in various notable productions, including GQ, MTV, and Fool's Gold Records, Rob delves into some of his most meaningful projects. Discover the projects that hold a special place in Simon's heart and the reasons why they resonate with him. Drawing from his experiences, Simon shares valuable advice for new illustrators in a hypothetical meeting scenario. Tune in to hear his words of wisdom and guidance for those starting their journey in the world of illustration. The episode concludes with a glimpse into Simon's dream projects. Join Rob and Simon as they discuss the creative ventures Simon aspires to undertake, whether it be creating projects from scratch or collaborating with other artists. Don't miss this captivating episode as Rob Lee engages in an enlightening conversation with Simon Landrein, unraveling the intricacies of animation and illustration while uncovering Simon's inspirations, processes, and future aspirations Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we speak with Adriel Luis, a creative collaborator who works with artists, scholars, and community organizers to bring innovative projects to life. Adriel is currently serves as the Curator of Digital and Emerging Practice for the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center, where he enjoys the freedom to explore topics and mediums in fluid and complex ways. Adriel's passion lies in projects that don't fit neatly into specific identity markers or formats, and he likes to explore issues that don't yet have clear answers. We dive into his recent curated projects, such as Bravespace, a collection of music and visuals by Asian American women and nonbinary artists, which focuses on the theme of collective healing. We also discuss In the Future Our Asian Community is Safe, a mural created by Jess X. Snow, Wiena Lin, and the W.O.W. Project in Manhattan's Chinatown, which explores Asian American safety and solidarity with the area's Indigenous and Black histories. Join us as we explore Adriel's passion for creative collaboration and his commitment to exploring complex issues in the world of art and community organizing. Creators & Guests Adriel Luis 🕴🏽Rob LeeRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of "The Truth in This Art" podcast, host Rob Lee interviews Genna Howard, a talented multidisciplinary artist from New York. Howard's work is known for its stark and aggressive approach to visual storytelling, often incorporating themes of death, dissection, and science. Lee and Howard delve into the artist's creative process, discussing how they utilize these themes to create hauntingly beautiful and thought-provoking pieces. Listeners will gain insights into Howard's unique perspective on art and the creative process, as well as their ability to make work that is both sharp and immersive. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one of today's most exciting and innovative artists. Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on "The Truth In This Art" podcast as host Rob Lee engages in a captivating conversation with J Alex Schechter, a talented sculptor based in Philadelphia, PA. Dive into the intriguing world of Alex's artistic journey, where he seamlessly blends traditional woodworking methods, digital fabrication, found objects, video, and animation. In this episode, Alex shares his unique background and educational journey, including his studies in religious studies and sculpture. Discover how his religious studies background influences and manifests in his artistic creations, adding depth and meaning to his work. Explore the challenges and opportunities that arise from working with various materials, as Alex combines different techniques and mediums to bring his vision to life. Uncover his complex relationship with American mythology and gain insights into his thoughts and feelings about this captivating subject. Delve into the profound messages embedded within Alex's artwork and discover the deeper meaning behind his creations. Learn how his artistic expression reveals aspects of his own personal journey and identity. Alex also opens up about his recent influences, drawing inspiration from visual art, literature, film, and music. Discover the works that have shaped his artistic perspective and why they hold significant importance for him. Step into Alex's studio and get a glimpse of his typical day as an artist. Explore the dynamics of his creative process, from solitary moments of introspection to collaborations and idea-sharing with fellow artists. Join us as we unravel the artistic brilliance of J Alex Schechter, a sculptor whose work transcends boundaries and invites us to question and explore the world around us. Creators & Guests Rob Lee Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Indulge in a special National Wine Day episode of "The Truth in this Art" podcast, hosted by Rob Lee. Join us as we dive into the world of wine with acclaimed expert Erik Segelbaum. With impressive credentials as the 2020 Wine Enthusiast 40 under 40 Tastemaker and Food & Wine Magazine's 2019 Sommelier of the Year, Erik brings nearly three decades of industry experience to the table. From creating highly profitable beverage programs and delivering enlightening staff training to his role as Vice President of the United Sommeliers Foundation, Erik's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Discover his remarkable career and gain exclusive insights into his upcoming venture, Good Somm. Raise a glass and join us for this captivating conversation with one of the wine industry's most respected and knowledgeable voices. Creators & GuestsRob LeeErik Segelbaum Rob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Rob Lee interviews Aaron Nagel, an American painter and former musician, on the Truth in this Art podcast. Nagel was the original trumpet player for punk rock/ska core act Link 80, and later played guitar in the band DESA with other former Link 80 members. In this interview, Nagel discusses his work as a painter, his artistic process, and his influences. Nagel's paintings are known for their hyperrealistic style and often feature human subjects in intimate and vulnerable poses. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the intersection of music and art with one of the industry's most unique voices. Creators & Guests Rob LeeAaron NagelRob Lee & The Truth in This Art present "Black Cinema Series" April 26 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets May 25 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets June 22 at 5:30pm for more information and to secure tickets To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ★ Support this podcast ★

Embark on a captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art" as host Rob Lee engages in a profound conversation with artist Ciarra K. Walters. Through her work, Ciarra delves into the depths of the human body, capturing its essence through the lens of film and photography. Her artistic practice revolves around cultivating a heightened awareness of our physical selves and embracing the interplay between the body, emotions, surroundings, and instinctual movements. Drawing inspiration from sculptures crafted by individuals and shaped by nature, Ciarra's performances are spontaneous and intuitive, merging with her physical being to create captivating visual experiences. Whether amidst rocks, trees, grass, concrete, or metal, she finds intrigue in the dynamics between the body and its environment. Ciarra treats her body as an independent sculpture, adorning it with found objects and dressing it distinctively, blurring the boundaries between art and self-expression. Her performances establish a profound connection with the concepts of time, mortality, and the delicate nature of human existence. In her art, she exudes strength and asserts ownership over her physical form, carrying on the important conversations initiated by pioneering artists like Ana Mendieta, Lorna Simpson, and Senga Nengudi regarding the female body and its constraints on freedom of movement. Join us as we delve into Ciarra's artistic process, her influences, and her mission to create a space where movement is embraced and celebrated. Through this conversation, we explore the essence of the human body and the transformative power of art with the talented artist, Ciarra K. Walters. Creators & Guests Rob LeeThe Truth In This Art, hosted by Rob Lee, explores contemporary art and cultural preservation through candid conversations with artists, curators, and cultural leaders about their work, creative processes and the thinking that goes into their creativity. Rob also occasionally interviews creatives in other industries such as acting, music, and journalism. The Truth In This Art is a podcast for artists, art lovers and listeners interested in the creative process. To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. THE TRUTH IN THIS ART IS SUPPORTED IN PART BY The Gutierrez Memorial Fund The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation ★ Support this podcast ★

Join host Rob Lee in a captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art" as he explores the world of sports photography with acclaimed photographer Shawn Hubbard. From his beginnings as a collegiate athlete to becoming a sought-after photographer, Shawn's work captures the essence of sports and evokes powerful emotions through skillful use of light, color, and composition. Discover Shawn's journey into photography and his path to building a strong client base, which includes notable names like Under Armour, Washington Wizards, and Baltimore Ravens. Delve into his artistic process and the influences that have shaped his unique style. As a former athlete, Shawn's insights into capturing the visual essence of sports offer a fresh perspective on his work. Engage in an insightful conversation as Rob and Shawn discuss what makes an image impactful and share personal examples of memorable photographs. Join us for an episode that explores the intersection of sports, emotion, and the art of photography with the talented Shawn Hubbard. Creators & Guests Rob LeeShawn HubbardThe Truth In This Art, hosted by Rob Lee, explores contemporary art and cultural preservation through candid conversations with artists, curators, and cultural leaders about their work, creative processes and the thinking that goes into their creativity. Rob also occasionally interviews creatives in other industries such as acting, music, and journalism. The Truth In This Art is a podcast for artists, art lovers and listeners interested in the creative process. To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. THE TRUTH IN THIS ART IS SUPPORTED IN PART BY The Gutierrez Memorial Fund The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation ★ Support this podcast ★

Join host Rob Lee in a captivating conversation with Robert Carter, a visual artist, photographer, and writer whose work beautifully portrays brown skin in a vibrant array of hues. Discover how Robert's art serves as a bridge, connecting us to history, culture, and the shared human experience. Raised in a colorful home adorned with Black art, Robert found inspiration in museums, magazines, movies, and music, shaping his artistic journey. Learn how these influences have culminated in his mission to use creativity as a tool for fostering equity, awareness, and compassionate empathy. Delve into Robert's creative process, both in his commercial/advertising work and his fine art, as he shares insights into his techniques and the emotional challenges he's faced. Explore his role as an arts educator, teaching photography workshops and inspiring others at Fleisher Art Memorial and Mural Arts. Discover the significance of being a Mural Arts Black Arts Fellow and gain insights into the vibrant arts community of Philadelphia. Join us for an engaging discussion that explores the transformative power of art with the talented artist, Robert Carter. Creators & Guests Rob LeeThe Truth In This Art, hosted by Rob Lee, explores contemporary art and cultural preservation through candid conversations with artists, curators, and cultural leaders about their work, creative processes and the thinking that goes into their creativity. Rob also occasionally interviews creatives in other industries such as acting, music, and journalism. The Truth In This Art is a podcast for artists, art lovers and listeners interested in the creative process. To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. THE TRUTH IN THIS ART IS SUPPORTED IN PART BY The Gutierrez Memorial Fund The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, host Rob Lee interviews Baltimore-based artist TOSKAGO . Martin Mbuguah better known as TOSKAGO is an artist born in Ol'Kalou, Kenya, raised in Indiana, and currently lives and works in Baltimore, MD. He currently studies painting at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) and expects his BFA by 2024. Born to a poor family of farmers and laborers, Martin’s formative years were characterized by a deep sense of anxiety due to rising tribal tensions and growing financial instability. Despite these struggles, Martin and his family had a twist of fate when they won the coveted “green card lottery” and were offered the chance to move to the United States. After arriving in the states Martin’s initial anxieties returned, this time taking a different form as he attempted to reconcile his inherited Kikuyu culture and the last tie to his family and homeland with his new adopted culture in the U.S. Martin spent most of his time examining and learning Western customs in an effort to assimilate. It was during this time that Martin also began to acclimate to his new racial identity as a “black man.” Being from an ethnically and racially homogenous village, Martin’s understanding of racial structures and hierarchy was distinct from even that of his parents (who were born in British-occupied Kenya). Martin's work is a dialog on the nature of identity and the human condition. Taking from his ancestral Kikuyu practice of storytelling he constructs narratives through painting and film in order to illustrate themes of race, violence, and addiction. Martin’s works have been displayed in significant national exhibitions at venues such as the Pratt Manhattan Gallery (New York), and The National YoungArts Foundation Gallery (Miami, FL). His paintings are part of private and public collections around the world, including the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, the St. Claire Collection, and the Timmons Collection. Martin has also been the recipient of numerous prestigious national and international awards. He was a recipient of the coveted Gold Award from the National YoungArts Foundation, as well as a semifinalist for 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars. Photograph by Dawn Bangi Creators & Guests Rob LeetoskagoThe Truth In This Art, hosted by Rob Lee, explores contemporary art and cultural preservation through candid conversations with artists, curators, and cultural leaders about their work, creative processes and the thinking that goes into their creativity. Rob also occasionally interviews creatives in other industries such as acting, music, and journalism. The Truth In This Art is a podcast for artists, art lovers and listeners interested in the creative process. To support the The Truth In This Art: Buy Me Ko-fi Use the hashtag #thetruthinthisart Follow The Truth in This Art on Instagram Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. THE TRUTH IN THIS ART IS SUPPORTED IN PART BY The Gutierrez Memorial Fund The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation ★ Support this podcast ★