Revisiting Punk Roots and Building Tribes: A Conversation with James Spooner
Join host Rob Lee in a captivating episode of The Truth In This Art as he sits down with James Spooner, a multi-talented artist, filmmaker, and graphic novelist who has left an indelible mark on the world of punk and Black identity. From directing the groundbreaking documentary "AFRO-PUNK" to co-founding the renowned Afropunk Festival, James Spooner has been a driving force in celebrating punk culture and creating spaces for marginalized voices.
In this episode, we explore:
In this episode, we explore:
- The creative journey behind James Spooner's graphic memoir, "The High Desert," and his experience revisiting personal moments and emotions while putting the novel together. Gain insights into the process of creating a coming-of-age memoir and the impact it has on both the creator and the audience.
- James's role in co-curating the anthology "Black Punk Now: A Punk Anthology" and the significance of capturing the essence of punk culture. Discover the elements that define a culture or scene, particularly within the punk community and the power of representation and self-expression.
- The concept of finding one's tribe and its importance in personal growth and navigating cultural identity. James shares his own experiences and insights on the journey of finding a community that resonates with your passions and values.
- Uncover the life experiences that have shaped James Spooner's creative sensibility and influenced his work. Explore the obstacles he has faced throughout his career and his approach to overcoming them with resilience and determination.
- Gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between race, identity, and the arts as James shares his perspectives on living as a person of color in predominantly white communities and the impact it has on creativity and expression.
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that celebrates the artistry, resilience, and cultural impact of James Spooner. Gain insights into his creative process, his experiences in punk culture, and the transformative power of finding your tribe.
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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
James Spooner
a multi-talented artist, filmmaker, and graphic novelist who has left an indelible mark on the world of punk and Black identity