The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

In this episode, I interviewed Kait Kluswitz, the creative force behind Kait K Designs. Kait’s journey to becoming a full-time artist followed an unconventional path. Originally a mathematics major who worked in retail management, she transitioned to art in her mid-thirties. During the pandemic, she discovered her passion for painting, particularly florals, which sparked the creation of her brand, Kait K Designs. Known for her vibrant works and her love of retro aesthetics—especially the color burgundy—Kait attributes much of her success to Baltimore’s supportive art community. Tune in as we discuss her journey, inspirations, and the transformative power of art in creating meaningful spaces.  The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, Rob Lee sits down with Freako Rico, an Atlanta-based visual artist known for his bold and humorous works. Freako shares his creative journey, shaped by his love for pop culture, BMX, skateboarding, and hip-hop. He opens up about navigating stereotypes in the art world, staying true to his unfiltered style, and working with major brands—all while balancing his love for gin and maintaining authenticity.This conversation offers a unique look into the life of a street culture artist making waves. Whether you're an art lover or curious about the stories behind the canvas, Freako Rico’s insights will inspire and entertain. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I sit down with Ainsley Burrows, a multidisciplinary artist originally from Kingston, Jamaica, now based in Baltimore. Ainsley Burrows's groundbreaking methodologies, including NeoChaos and Raktism, have established him as a powerful voice in abstract art. During our conversation, Ainsley Burrows shared how he channels untold stories and emotions through various mediums—poetry, music, performance, and painting. Starting his journey as a self-taught artist in 2009, Ainsley Burrows began working with acrylics and developed his unique visual language through dedicated practice and research. His artistic roots lie in his success as a poet and novelist, and this literary foundation continues to influence his abstract works. Ainsley Burrows fully immersed himself in painting during the pandemic, leading to his first solo exhibition in 2022, with his work now featured in exhibitions across the U.S. and held in several private collections.The Third Future: A Self-Portrait - Ainsley Burrows Solo Exhibition Part of the Peak Artists Exhibition Series at The Top Of The World Observation Level's Gallery In The Sky, "The Third Future: A Self-Portrait" features Ainsley Burrows' latest body of work. This exhibition, which opened on September 12 and runs through November 18, explores the concept of the 'Third Future,' a limitless realm of creative possibility where Ainsley Burrows captures the essence of his experiences through abstract portraiture. This exhibition reflects his belief that art can serve as a voice for those who are often overlooked or silenced, advocating for the 'small man' and those who rarely find representation in high spaces. Be sure to check it out at the 27th floor of Baltimore's World Trade Center. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of 'The Truth in This Art,' host Rob Lee sits down with Christopher Williams, known as The Black Da Vinci, a visual artist originally from the West Coast, now based in Philadelphia. Christopher's work radiates Black joy through his powerful portraiture and figurative painting. They discuss his journey, the importance of celebrating Black identity and culture in art, and his choice to move away from depictions of Black pain. This conversation offers deep insights into his creative process and the significance of representation in art. Christopher Williams' work is both a celebration and a statement. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth in This Art, I sit down with multidisciplinary artist, curator, and award-winning filmmaker Imani Dennison. Imani’s work delves into the rich narratives of Black culture in the South and the African diaspora, blending folklore, fantasy, and hidden histories in her storytelling. We explore her journey growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, her time at Howard University, and how these experiences have shaped her artistic voice. Imani shares her passion for documentary filmmaking and photography, particularly focusing on her latest film, The People Could Fly, which highlights the significance of roller rink culture in Louisville as a vital community space.Join us as we discuss Imani’s creative process, her dedication to preserving Black history, and how she brings her unique perspective to the world of film and art. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth in This Art, I sit down with Zach Michel, co-founder of the Charm City Fringe Festival, as we celebrate its 10th anniversary. We dive into the world of fringe art and the unique performances that highlight Baltimore’s vibrant and unconventional arts scene. Zach shares how Charm City Fringe has become a platform for bold, innovative theater, offering a space for artists to take risks and experiment. We also talk about the challenges and triumphs of running the festival, its history, and what audiences can expect this year as Charm City Fringe continues to push creative boundaries.The 2024 Charm City Fringe Festival runs from September 27th to October 6th. Don't miss out on the chance to see some truly innovative performances! For tickets and more information, visit Charm City Fringe's website. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth In This Art, I sit down with Terry Guy, the visionary founder of Secret Walls. Since launching in 2006, Terry has been a key figure in revolutionizing the global art scene with Secret Walls' live paint battles. We dive into Terry’s journey, from his early days in the UK street art scene to founding Secret Walls, and how his passion for the arts has shaped his career, leading him to work with top brands like Posca, Apple, and Reebok.Terry also gives us an inside look at the upcoming Art of Competition Tour, kicking off on September 27th. We explore how Secret Walls has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, bringing together diverse artistic talents and creating an electrifying platform for artists to showcase their skills in front of live audiences.Tune in to learn more about Terry’s incredible career, the evolution of Secret Walls, and what to expect from the exciting new tour! The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I sit down with Lesley Malin, the Producing Executive Director of Chesapeake Shakespeare Company. Lesley helped grow this Baltimore gem into one of Maryland’s largest theaters, taking it from a passion project to a major player in the Shakespeare world. We talk about how she led the renovation of a historic 1886 bank into their now iconic venue, and what it’s like to manage a theater that never stops evolving.But it’s not just about Shakespeare. Chesapeake Shakespeare is currently producing Joe Turner’s Come and Gone as part of Baltimore’s August Wilson Celebration, running from September 20th through October 15th. Lesley gives us a sneak peek into this gripping play, a crucial chapter in Wilson’s American Century Cycle that captures the heartache and hope of the Great Migration.This episode is part of my ongoing media partnership with Baltimore Magazine. Want to support Baltimore’s thriving arts scene? Make sure to catch Joe Turner’s Come and Gone at Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, and explore the full lineup of plays in the August Wilson Celebration. You won’t want to miss these powerful stories on stage. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Truth in This Art, I sit down with Chinai Routte, an accomplished actor with performances spanning off-Broadway, regional theater, and film. Chinai is currently playing Margaret in Everyman Theatre’s production of POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive By Selina Fillinger, Directed by Laura Kepley. We explore the sharp political satire of the play, which dives into themes like gender equality and the pressures women face in leadership roles. Chinai shares her journey in the theater world and gives insights into her portrayal of Margaret, a First Lady balancing strength and vulnerability amidst political chaos. This episode highlights the humor and relevance of the production, especially in today's political climate.POTUS runs at Everyman Theatre until September 29th, 2024. Don't miss your chance to catch this incredible show! For tickets and more information, visit Everyman Theatre's website. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Christina Delgado underscores the importance of connection, collaboration, and uplifting cultural identities. In this episode of "The Truth in This Art," host Rob Lee welcomes back Christina Delgado, a Baltimore-based photographer, curator, and founder of Tolas Room, a Puerto Rican home museum and cultural space. The discussion centers on Christina's efforts to celebrate and educate visitors about Puerto Rican and New York Rican culture and history, particularly within Baltimore's local Boricua narrative. Christina shares her journey as an artist and cultural worker, emphasizing community engagement, the challenges of gentrification, and the role of art in preserving cultural heritage.You may also check out her first interview with Rob through this link. The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★