Art on the Streets: Conrad Benner's Philly Creative Journey
Step right into 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, guided by your host, Rob Lee. In today’s conversation, I talked with Conrad Benner, the visionary behind StreetsDepartment.com, a renowned Philadelphia street art blog. A native of Fishtown, Conrad's diverse talents as a skilled photographer, influential blogger, curator, and podcaster converge in his exploration of art, public space, and creative minds. Recognized for catalyzing change within the community, he has garnered accolades from prestigious sources including The Guardian and Time Magazine. Conrad's legacy in the Philadelphia art scene is underscored by his extensive 12-year tenure with the Streets Department.
In this episode, we explore:
- Conrad's journey as we uncover how his early passion for architecture and street art paved the way for the birth of Streets Department, a platform celebrating urban creativity.
- The evolution of the Streets Department, from its origins as a photojournal archive to its current role as a hub for curatorial initiatives and collaborative ventures.
- The mindset behind creative persistence with Conrad, as he shares insights on navigating challenges and embracing self-compassion along the artistic path.
- The changing landscape where art and business intersect, as we discuss how artists like Conrad are capitalizing on opportunities to transform their passions into viable businesses.
- The power of community support and the significance of platforms like Patreon, as Conrad sheds light on how his patrons and followers contribute to his creative projects and the independence of his publications.
Conrad discusses Conrad's early creative interests, the evolution of his blog into a full-time business, and the intersection of art and business. Conrad shares his experiences with partnerships and collaborations, as well as the importance of recognizing where art and business intersect. They also touch on the concept of home and how Conrad brings a sense of Philadelphia with him when he travels.
Mentioned in the episode
Streets D E P T like Department
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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"
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.
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Creators and Guests
Host
Rob Lee
The Truth In This Art is an interview series featuring artists, entrepreneurs and tastemakers in & around Baltimore.
Guest
Conrad Benner
Philly-based photo-blog exploring Art + Public Space, EST. 2011; Podcast interviewing creative minds, EST. 2017; and art curation #StreetsDeptWalls! 📸🎨🏳️🌈