Art in the Raw: A Podcast About Queer Artists

Summary
Artist Charlie Cole joins David Smith and Gabe Vasquez for a candid exploration of how sobriety, queer identity, and spirituality shape creative expression. From childhood art experiments to the erotic themes of his current work, Cole shares how his journey is marked by vulnerability, humor, and a refusal to hide any part of himself. Along the way, the conversation delves into the power of community, the alchemy of erotic and spiritual energy, and why shedding old skins—whether through paint or recovery—can lead to honest, transformative art.
You can listen to Part 1 of our interview with Charlie over on Gabe's Podcast: Art, Sobriety, and the Fool's Journey: Charlie's Path to Healing Through Creativity
Keywords
queer art, sobriety, recovery, erotic art, creativity, spirituality, LGBTQ+ artists, vulnerability, Dallas art scene, artistic process
Takeaways
Art as Subconscious Expression: Cole sees art as a channel for subconscious truths, allowing things to emerge that even he doesn’t fully understand until after creation.
Sobriety as Creative Catalyst: Getting sober didn’t just clear space for art—it allowed Cole’s creative voice to grow in bold, authentic directions, free from shame or self-censorship.
Eroticism as Spiritual: Cole’s current work is unapologetically erotic, reflecting his belief that sexual energy and spiritual energy are deeply connected, not separate realms.
From Chaos to Clarity: Pre-sobriety art was sporadic and hard to trace; post-recovery, Cole’s art shows a clear, evolving narrative, mirroring his emotional and spiritual growth.
Vulnerability Through Visibility: Making erotic art—especially pieces that might make even his mom blush—requires a willingness to be seen, judged, and ultimately proud.
Creative Cycles and Pink Clouds: Like the “pink cloud” phase in recovery, Cole’s artistic journey ebbs and flows, with bursts of inspiration followed by quieter periods of reflection.
Community and Isolation: While Cole’s art is deeply personal, he reflects on the tension between creative solitude and the desire for deeper artistic community.
From Abstraction to Intimacy: Cole’s next artistic phase might move beyond raw eroticism to explore intimacy, connection, and emotional depth—finding new ways to tell queer stories.
The Fool’s Journey Through Recovery: His unpublished book merges tarot symbolism with sobriety narratives, offering a personal map for integrating spiritual and creative growth.
Art as Manifestation: Cole believes that what we paint can shape our reality—sometimes literally, as people or situations that appear in his life eerily resemble figures from his canvases.
Chapters & Timestamps
00:02 – Introductions & Setting the Stage
00:39 – Gabe’s Podcast Mission: Sobriety and the LGBTQ+ Community
03:15 – Charlie’s Creative Roots: From Childhood Sketches to Performance Art
05:28 – Art Before and After Sobriety: Finding a Linear Progression
09:18 – Spirituality in Art: From Marie Laveau to Out-of-Body Experiences
12:08 – Queer Identity & Art: Eroticism, Vulnerability, and Liberation
14:15 – Gabe on Creativity in Recovery: From Journaling to Crochet
17:13 – Charlie’s Creative Process Today: Erotic Art, Collaboration, and Growth
24:10 – Advice for Creatives: Embracing Imperfection, Vulnerability, and Subconscious Flow
33:07 – Creative Community: The Search for Connection Beyond the Canvas
35:18 – Art as Shedding Skin: Phases, Bursts, and the Evolution of Voice
41:02 – The Fool’s Journey Through Recovery: Charlie’s Unpublished Book and Spiritual Integration
46:52 – Looking Ahead: Next Projects, New Directions, and Taking Up Space
54:55 – Rapid-Fire Questions: Oils, Cocktail Twins, and the Art of the Daddy Voice
01:03:28 – Closing Thoughts: The Magic of Growth, Community, and Queer Creativity
Featured Artist & Guest Links
Charlie Cole is a Dallas-based artist whose work spans spiritual symbolism, queer eroticism, and the interplay of recovery and creativity. His unpublished book, The Fool’s Journey Through Recovery, explores tarot as a metaphor for sobriety and personal evolution.
Facebook Page: Art by Cole
Instagram: @charlesedwardcole
Book: The Fool’s Journey Through Recovery – buy on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Gabe Vasquez hosts his own podcast for Out & About AF: Alcohol-free coaching, community, and travel for LGBTQIA+ folks and allies. You can find more information about Gabe and Out and About AF below.
Linktree: Out & About AF
Apple Podcast: Out & About AF
Facebook Support Group: Out & About AF
Resources & Connect
Subscribe to our Substack for essays and bonus content
Follow us on Instagram and Bluesky
Listen and subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and anywhere podcasts are found
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
 Subscribe Now and become part of our vibrant community!
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Summary
Jerome Larez shares his artistic journey and the founding story of Artitude, an organization dedicated to uplifting LGBTQ+ and marginalized artists in Dallas and beyond. We explore themes of representation, community-building, and the power of reclaiming words through art. Jerome also discusses the challenges and opportunities facing queer artists today and the future of Artitude’s programming and outreach.
Keywords
Jerome Larez
Artitude
Queer artists
LGBTQ+ arts
Dallas art community
MariconX
Intersectional art
Art and activism
Black and Latinx artists
Inclusive art spaces
Takeaways
Jerome’s artistic roots began in music but transitioned to photography and mixed media, especially black-and-white photography, which became a therapeutic way to explore his queer identity.
Artitude was born from conversations among marginalized artists about representation gaps in Dallas' queer and art communities, aiming to create inclusive, cross-cultural platforms.
The organization's flagship program, MariconX, reclaims a historically pejorative term to empower Latinx queer artists and embraces inclusivity by adding an "X" to the name.
Artitude intentionally fosters multicultural programming, exemplified by projects that blend traditions like Día de los Muertos with diverse artistic perspectives, including Black artists.
Jerome balances multiple civic and cultural roles to influence broader access, equity, and representation for marginalized artists in Dallas.
Recent funding from the Ford Foundation has allowed Artitude to hire staff, expand programs, and offer scholarships, increasing their capacity and community impact.
The organization confronts challenges such as exclusion from events like the Texas State Fair when requiring LGBTQ+ recognition, and continues advocacy for visibility and support.
Artitude fosters community and solidarity through art, creating safe spaces where artists can be vulnerable and authentic, inspiring mentorship and connection across identity intersections.
Jerome emphasizes the importance of dialogue, strategic alliances, and creating tables where marginalized voices can be heard rather than forcing entry.
Looking ahead, Artitude seeks to deepen cross-cultural collaboration and expand its influence regionally, including exhibitions at NYU and continued outreach in Texas cities such as San Antonio.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction and Artistic Journey of Jerome Larez
04:50 – Founding of Artitude: The Starbucks Meeting and Early Conversations
07:30 – Defining Multicultural Programming and Cross-Cultural Artistic Expression
10:10 – Jerome’s Civic Roles and Integration with Artitude’s Mission
14:30 – Artitude’s Unique Community and Representation Focus
18:00 – Challenges in Dallas’ LGBTQ+ Arts Landscape and Funding Issues
21:40 – Reclaiming “MariconX”: Name, Controversy, and Inclusivity
26:00 – The Evolving Themes of MariconX and Adaptation Across Cities
28:00 – Solidarity Through Artistic Collaboration and Safe Spaces
31:30 – Impact of Ford Foundation Grant on Artitude’s Growth and Programming
35:00 – Navigating Controversies: Texas State Fair and Advocacy
38:20 – Managing Artitude Across Distance with Co-Director Rafik
40:00 – Future Aspirations: El Pueblo Unido Exhibit and Regional Expansion
43:00 – Mentorship and Advice for Emerging Queer Artists of Color
44:40 – Hope for the Future: Artists’ Persistence and Voices
46:50 – Quickfire Lightning Round: Personal Artistic Insights
Guest Info
Jerome Larez
Artitude Official Website
Artitude Instagram
Resources and Links
Art in the Raw Substack Newsletter
Art in the Raw on Instagram
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
 Subscribe Now and become part of our vibrant community!
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Summary
Joey Brock, a queer mixed-media artist with a background in corporate America and fashion merchandising, shares his poignant journey embracing self-love and identity through his evocative portrait work. From confronting religious shame to celebrating queer bodies as sacred, Joey blends photography, stitching, and mylar overlays to create layered, powerful narratives that uplift marginalized voices and challenge societal norms.
Keywords
Joey Brock
Queer Art
Mixed Media
Religious Shame
Portrait Photography
Mylar Art
Self-Love
American South Queer Artists
Textile Art
LGBTQ+ Community
Takeaways
Joey’s experience in corporate America honed skills like focus, time management, and networking that positively influence his career as an independent artist.
Growing up in a Primitive Baptist family in Texas shaped his early relationship with religious shame and queer identity but also inspired his critique of religious hypocrisy toward the LGBTQ+ community.
The "Heavenly Bodies" project reclaims queer bodies as divine, using hyper-stylized photos combined with fabric overlays to evoke spirituality and beauty.
Joey’s use of materials such as mylar and hand stitching creates multi-layered architectural artworks that explore visibility, presence, and vulnerability.
His shift from abstraction to portraiture, inspired by artists like Robert Mapplethorpe, allowed him to confront body image and identity in raw, honest ways.
Joey’s broader social practice projects include interviews and portraits addressing discrimination across race, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and body types, highlighting shared human pain and resilience.
He consciously balances commercial and conceptual work, maintaining a recognizable style while addressing critical social issues.
Joey emphasizes the importance of self-love for queer artists, encouraging individuals to release toxic relationships, including family, and prioritize chosen family.
His artistic legacy aspires to uplift communities, be innovative, and challenge viewers to reconsider love, identity, and acceptance.
The lightning round reveals Joey's humor, humility, and personal taste, from disliking loud mufflers to admiring Buddhist chants and the value of “quiet the noise” as a personal and artistic mantra.
Chapters
00:00 – Introductions and background in corporate and art worlds
02:20 – Religious upbringing and its influence on identity and art
05:10 – Genesis of portraiture and self-portrait work
07:30 – “Heavenly Bodies” project and reclaiming queer divinity
15:40 – Fashion merchandising roots and textile techniques
18:00 – The technical and mixed media aspects of Joey’s work
23:30 – Blending personal, political, and social themes in art
27:00 – Handling discrimination and backlash as a queer artist
30:10 – Portrait subjects and community celebration
32:20 – Definitions of success and artistic legacy
36:10 – Advice for young queer artists on self-love and acceptance
39:10 – Quick fire: personal favorites and artistic inspirations
44:00 – Closing thoughts and future connections
Guest Website and Socials
Joey Brock Official Website
Instagram @joeybrockart
Facebook: Joey Brock Art
BlueSky @joeybrockart.bsky.social
Art in the Raw — Show Links
Support on Patreon
Newsletter on Substack
Twitter @artintherawpod
Instagram @artintherawpodcast
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
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Episode Summary
Join host David Smith in conversation with DR Mann-Hanson (he/him), founder of CinéWild, a vibrant Dallas-based queer film series dedicated to showcasing films made by LGBTQ creators. From its origins as a protest alternative in 2014 to a beloved community space celebrating queer artistry, CinéWild combines film, education, and engagement to transform how queer cinema is experienced. DR shares insights on vulnerability, activism, and the power of authentic storytelling in challenging times.
Keywords
Queer cinema
Cinewild
LGBTQ film series
Queer art and activism
Dallas queer community
Film curation
Queer storytelling
Texas Theater
Vulnerability and art
Independent queer filmmakers
Key Takeaways
CinéWild originated in 2014 as a protest alternative to Ender’s Game due to author Orson Scott Card’s homophobia, premiering with a screening of the queer-crafted film CORRECT THIS!
DR Mann-Hanson curates films based not only on queer themes but on the involvement of queer creators behind the scenes, honoring queer artists historically absent from mainstream recognition.
The Texas Theater, a longtime film advocate in Dallas, serves as a supportive venue with a history of screening auteur cinema, helping CinéWild grow its audience while expanding the theater’s LGBTQ film offerings.
CinéWild intentionally creates safe, brave spaces that encourage vulnerability, inviting audiences to connect deeply with queer narratives in a communal setting.
In responding to criticism about problematic content, CinéWild embraces education and community dialogue rather than censorship, facilitating reflection on historical context and contemporary values.
Despite operating in an often hostile cultural climate for queer people in Texas, CinéWild maintains authenticity without reactionary fear, focusing on building community resilience and joy.
Funding has evolved from volunteer passion to securing city arts grants, enabling CinéWild to compensate queer artists and grow toward becoming a nonprofit organization.
DR’s theater background informs his storytelling approach and ability to engage audiences dynamically, blending administrative and creative roles within the Dallas arts scene.
His advice to queer artists is to ground their work in personal identity and values, embrace authenticity and curiosity, and not be constrained by traditional definitions of art.
Episode Chapters
01:00 CinéWild's origin as protest against Orson Scott Card’s homophobia
04:00 The “Three E’s” framework: education, entertainment, engagement
07:00 The community ball inspired by Paris is Burning
10:30 Importance of Texas Theater as a queer-friendly venue
13:00 Highlighting queer creators behind the camera, not just on screen
16:40 Activist rationale of film programming (example: Birdcage vs Reagan movie)
25:00 Navigating criticism and fostering community dialogue
33:50 Positioning CinéWild as a counter-narrative in hostile environments like Texas
41:30 Funding, grants, and pathway to becoming a nonprofit
44:30 CinéWild's legacy hopes and creating generative queer film community
53:10 Rapid Fire: DR’s creative inspirations and reflections
61:50 Vision for CinéWild's future and closing thoughts
Guest Info
CinéWild on Facebook
CinéWild on Instagram
Resources & Connect with Art in the Raw
Support on Patreon
Newsletter on Substack
Art in the Raw on Twitter
Art in the Raw on Instagram
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
 
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Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
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Episode Summary
In this deeply revealing conversation, poet, filmmaker, and activist Louis Toliver Jr. (LTJ Reads) shares his journey from trauma to artistic empowerment within the queer and leather communities. Exploring themes of bisexual identity, survivorhood, mental health, and intergenerational connection, LTJ reveals how his projects like Louisiana Words and the Throwing Light podcast aim to uplift marginalized voices and redefine what it means to be American.
This episode uncovers how art serves as both refuge and revolution for LTJ, crafting spaces for healing, dialogue, and radical inclusion.
Keywords
LTJ Reads
Queer Arts
Bisexuality
Trauma and Healing
Leather Community
Louisiana Words
Throwing Light Podcast
Mental Health and Creativity
Queer Literature
Intergenerational Dialogue
Key Takeaways
LTJ Reads' stage name reflects a blend of intellectualism and creative expression rooted in his initials and love of reading.
His early artistic awakening began with writing horror screenplays and dark poetry in high school as a form of escapism.
The poem "Bisexual Me" encapsulates his rejection of binary thinking in sexuality, embracing fluidity and inclusion beyond societal constraints.
His forthcoming book American Like Me explores themes of body, mind, and heart to reflect a complex American identity.
LTJ’s film work includes 'Forced to Swim' and a powerful short, His Body, telling abortion from male and transgender perspectives as metaphor for his HIV and trauma experiences.
He actively hosts and sustains the "Naked People Reading" series, fostering vulnerability and queer-visible storytelling across Texas cities.
Throwing Light is a positive community-driven video podcast countering destructive "shade" culture by celebrating leadership and unity.
The Louisiana Words project highlights marginalized Louisiana voices through poetry and memoir, emphasizing non-political, universal human experience.
LTJ is planning extensive live tours for both Louisiana Words and Throwing Light, aiming to strengthen statewide and national queer communities.
He embraces his trauma as artistic fuel—addressing childhood abuse, sexual assault, racism, and mental illness with ongoing therapy and sobriety.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Origin of "LTJ Reads"
01:06 Early Writing and Artistic Awakening
02:54 Bisexual Me and Challenging Binary Queer Identities
04:19 Overview of Upcoming Book American Like Me
05:12 Film Projects and His Body Short Film
07:16 Intersection of HIV, Sexual Assault, and Art
11:13 Naked People Reading and Community Building
16:58 Louisiana Words - Origins, Mission, and Upcoming Tour
22:23 Launch and Growth of Throwing Light Podcast
29:24 Plans for Texas and National Throwing Light Tours
36:16 Harnessing Trauma for Artistic Expression
46:25 Rapid Fire Artistic Lightning Round
48:35 Closing Remarks and Legacy Aspirations
Guest Links
https://louistoliverjr.com (Official Website)
Instagram @ltjishere
Throwing Light Podcast on YouTube
Louisiana Words Tour 2025
Throwing Light Together Tour 2025
Art in the Raw Links
Newsletter on Substack
Instagram
Twitter
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
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Summary
In this deeply reflective episode of Art in the Raw, Christopher W. Quigley shares his journey from hands-on custom fabrication to creating immersive public artworks that confront themes of impermanence, entropy, and gender-based violence. After surviving two near-fatal strokes, Quigley transformed his artistic vision to focus on projects like Transformation of Dangerous Spaces, an emotionally powerful installation addressing intimate partner violence and toxic masculinity. This conversation navigates Quigley’s personal history, queer identity, and his commitment to using art as a catalyst for social change.
Keywords
Christopher W. Quigley, queer art, custom fabrication, immersive art installation, gender-based violence, intimate partner violence, toxic masculinity, public art, entropy in art, impermanence, Transformation of Dangerous Spaces, queer creativity, stroke survivor artist, art activism
Takeaways
Quigley’s early memories driving his aunt’s 1966 Pontiac Parisienne shaped his love for custom fabrication and collaborative artistic creation.
His career evolved through interior design and large-scale custom fabrication projects, including record-breaking public art installations like the largest outdoor chandelier in Cleveland, Ohio.
Queer identity in a traditionally male, heterosexual-dominated industry required Quigley to exceed ordinary expectations—mediocrity was never an option.
Two near-fatal strokes in 2022 profoundly shifted Quigley’s artistic purpose from fabricating for others to creating meaningful, socially engaged artworks.
His work embraces themes of entropy and impermanence, with sculptures designed to slowly dissolve over decades, reflecting the temporary nature of life and legacy.
Transformation of Dangerous Spaces is an immersive, eight-stall art installation addressing intimate partner violence and toxic masculinity, rooted in local community tragedy.
The project focuses on male accountability and education, highlighting the socialization of boys and men in spaces like locker rooms as key sites for perpetuating violence.
The installation challenges audiences emotionally and requires trauma-informed support to help process its intense themes.
Men’s organizations have been slower to engage with the project compared to women’s groups, illustrating ongoing challenges in addressing gender-based violence collaboratively.
Quigley advises young queer artists to focus on making authentic, plentiful art without agenda, embracing creation as a fundamental ritual for growth and impact.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction: Sunday drives and early inspirations
02:30 – Career in custom fabrication and move to Manhattan
05:00 – Navigating queerness in a male-dominated industry
10:00 – Life-changing strokes and artistic transformation
12:00 – Themes of entropy, impermanence, and the ephemeral series
18:00 – Creation of Transformation of Dangerous Spaces installation
22:00 – Addressing intimate partner violence and toxic masculinity
26:00 – Audience reactions and intersectionality in the work
36:00 – Challenges engaging men’s groups and trauma-informed care
43:00 – The significance of horror aesthetics and queer resonance
48:00 – Vision for public policy and societal change through art
50:00 – Advice for young queer artists embracing entropy
52:30 – Quick 10 questions for Christopher W. Quigley
01:01:00 – Closing remarks and future tour plans
Guest Info
Christopher W. Quigley Official Website
TRANSFORMATION OF DANGEROUS SPACES
Art in the Raw Resources
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Available on:
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Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
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Summary
In this engaging episode of Art in the Raw, J. W. Steed shares his journey as a writer whose queer identity deeply informs his work, blending eroticism with science fiction and fantasy. From early literary influences to his groundbreaking queer erotica and thoughtful exploration of clone rights, Steed offers candid insights into creativity, vulnerability, and challenging norms in queer storytelling.
Keywords
queer erotica, science fiction, fantasy, J. W. Steed, clone rights, queer identity, erotic fiction, LGBTQ+ literature, vulnerability in art, queer representation
Takeaways
J. W. Steed began writing poetry as a child, heavily influenced by Victorian poet Edward Lear and continued through creative writing workshops in school.
His early writing included queer characters subtly woven into young adult and women’s fiction, with his first trans character appearing in 2004-2005.
Steed’s work blends humor and seriousness, inspired by authors like Shirley Jackson and Patrick Dennis, enhancing emotional depth.
He has been a proud member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association, recently writing explicit queer sci-fi erotica featuring clones.
The novella “Journey’s End” explores identity, loss, and complex relationships through the sci-fi lens of clones with varying memories and citizenship rights.
Steed uses his long-running personal blog—focused on erotic personal essays—to develop his comfort and skill in writing sexual scenes.
He emphasizes that eroticism in literature is not just about sex but about arousing emotional, sensory, and intellectual responses, making characters more relatable and stories richer.
Steed addresses social commentary in his work, especially around clone rights and commodification, reflecting challenges faced by queer communities.
Despite potential risks and censorship in queer erotic genres, he advocates for writing true to oneself and embracing vulnerability as a source of creative strength.
For emerging queer writers, Steed advises clarifying personal beliefs and harnessing that conviction to write authentically and powerfully.
Chapter Timestamps
00:01 – Introduction to J. W. Steed and early writing influences
03:00 – Queer identity and writing erotica
06:00 – Literary inspirations: Shirley Jackson and Patrick Dennis
08:30 – Role of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association
12:30 – Creation of the queer sci-fi clone erotica duology
15:00 – Writing “Journey’s End” amid personal loss
18:20 – Queer representation and sexuality in sci-fi literature
21:30 – Blog and personal essays as creative development tools
27:00 – The role of eroticism in character and narrative development
31:00 – Social commentary on clone rights and identity
35:00 – Reception and challenges of queer erotic fiction
40:00 – Overcoming creative doubts and rejection
43:30 – Contributions to broader queer literary conversations
44:30 – Upcoming sci-fi projects and creative process
46:00 – Advice for emerging queer writers
48:30 – The 10 Artistic Questions with J. W. Steed
57:30 – Closing remarks
Guest Website and Socials
Learn more about J. W. Steed and his work:
Peter Schutes Publishing – Publisher of J. W. Steed’s queer sci-fi erotica
J. W. Steed Official Website
J. W. Steed's Bluesky
Buy his novellas
Art in the Raw Resources
Join our Patreon for exclusive content at patreon.com/SalonNaturale
Subscribe to our Substack newsletter at salonnaturale.art
Follow us on:
Bluesky @salonnaturale.art
Instagram: @salonnaturale
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Available on:
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Hosted on Podbean
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
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Episode Summary
Join us for an intimate conversation with artist Joey Chabolla, whose work fuses Latino cultural heritage with queer, body-positive illustration. Joey shares the inspirations behind his signature shading technique, his focus on bearded, muscular physiques, and his commitment to authentic trans masculine representation. Discover how he navigates censorship, commissions, and community in the Dallas queer art scene.
Keywords
Joey Chabolla artist
Queer Latino art
Homoerotic illustration
Body positive queer art
Trans masculine representation
Dallas queer art scene
Latino cultural motifs in art
Art and queer identity
Social media censorship queer art
Queer community organizing art
Takeaways from the Episode
Joey’s artistic style is deeply influenced by West Dallas’s graffiti culture and prison letter drawings with distinctive grayscale shading techniques.
His mother’s cake decorating and encouragement played a key role in nurturing his early artistic skills.
Joey’s queer identity began to emerge during junior high, inspiring early erotic sketches he carefully hid due to family dynamics.
He celebrates bearded, muscular “bear” bodies in his art as a counterpoint to traditional homoerotic ideals of lean athletic men.
Incorporating Latino heritage, he reinterprets motifs like Mayan and Aztec patterns into queer leather culture imagery, challenging machismo norms.
Joey balances creative autonomy and client needs in commissioned work by deeply understanding the subject and adding personal artistic touches.
He navigates social media censorship by hosting uncensored galleries on his own website and prioritizes technique as a form of vulnerability.
The Dallas queer art scene presents challenges around inclusion and acceptance of nude, homoerotic art, requiring finding supportive venues.
Joey deliberately includes trans masculine figures in his art, honoring their transition journeys through body structure and scar depiction.
His advice to emerging queer artists: practice drawing regularly, embrace your unique perspective, and express yourself unapologetically.
Episode Chapters with Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction and Recording Setup
01:00 - Joey’s Cultural Heritage and Artistic Style
05:00 - Early Artistic Influences and Family Encouragement
08:00 - Queer Identity Emergence and Early Drawings
12:00 - Celebration of Bearded Muscular Physiques in Art
14:00 - Navigating Eroticism, Vulnerability, and Censorship
16:00 - Balancing Commissioned Work and Artistic Vision
19:00 - The Dallas Queer Art Scene: Challenges and Opportunities
22:00 - Trans Masculine Representation in Joey’s Work
25:00 - Latino Cultural Motifs in Queer Art
29:00 - Role as Artist and Community Organizer
30:30 - Advice for Emerging Queer Artists
32:50 - Rapid Fire: Joey’s Artistic Preferences and Inspirations
36:10 - Closing Remarks
Guest Info
Joey Chabolla Official Website
Instagram @joey_chabolla
Twitter @joeychabolla
Resources
Support Art in the Raw on Patreon
Subscribe to Art in the Raw on Substack
Art in the Raw on Twitter
Art in the Raw on Instagram
Visit the Art in the Raw Podcast Website
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
 Subscribe Now and become part of our vibrant community!
Follow us on: Bluesky @salonnaturale.artInstagram @salonnaturaleYouTube @salonnaturale Hosted on Podbean

Summary
In this engaging conversation, David Smith speaks with Sabrina Pandora and Dee Fish about their journeys as comic creators, the evolution of their work, and the importance of representation in the industry. They discuss the challenges of self-publishing, the creative process behind their projects, and how personal experiences shape their storytelling. The dialogue also touches on the current political climate and its impact on LGBTQ artists, emphasizing the need for visibility and support in the arts.
 
Keywords
comics, LGBTQ, storytelling, representation, Giant Girl Adventures, artistic process, identity, self-publishing, collaboration, vulnerability
 
Takeaways
Sabrina was inspired to create comics after seeing friends produce their own.
Dee's webcomic chronicles their journey as a transgender person.
Giant Girl Adventures features a superheroine who struggles with her powers and identity.
Artistic influences include classic comic artists and personal experiences.
Collaboration between Sabrina and Dee has evolved their storytelling.
The political climate affects the creative process for LGBTQ artists.
Representation in comics is crucial for young trans readers.
Self-publishing offers creative freedom but comes with challenges.
Vulnerability in storytelling can resonate deeply with audiences.
Creating art is a legacy that transcends individual creators.
 
Guest Information
Sabrina's Socials: Substack, InstagramDee's Socials: WebsiteGiant Girl Comics: Website
Chapters
00:00 From Collector to Creator: The Journey Begins02:39 Character Development: The Birth of Giant Girl Adventures05:15 Artistic Inspirations: Shaping Ronnie Kane07:43 Personal Reflections: The Connection to Characters10:08 Influences and Revelations: The Power of Storytelling12:58 Secret Identities: LGBTQ Representation in Comics15:14 Artistic Collaboration: Evolving Together17:39 Challenges and Triumphs: Revitalizing Giant Girl20:35 Vulnerability in Storytelling: Personal Experiences22:51 The Evolution of Artistic Process25:37 Staying True: Balancing Growth and Consistency28:25 Overcoming Doubts: The Future of Giant Girl30:45 Emotional Depth: The Heart of Storytelling33:10 Mastering Techniques: Action vs. Emotion36:09 Creative Solutions and Storytelling Dynamics38:49 Character Development and Visual Storytelling39:44 Navigating the Indie Comics Landscape40:25 Impact of Political Climate on Creators44:51 Representation and Identity in Art47:44 Personal Stories and Political Influence51:47 Amplifying Trans Voices in the Arts53:12 Lessons of Forgiveness and Self-Acceptance55:29 Advice for Emerging Trans Artists57:07 Artistic Trends and Personal Preferences01:01:14 Fueling Creativity and Overcoming Challenges01:04:09 Legacy and Future Aspirations
Art in the Raw Resources
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Subscribe to our Substack newsletter at salonnaturale.art
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Bluesky @salonnaturale.art
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Available on:
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Hosted on Podbean
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
 Subscribe Now and become part of our vibrant community!
Follow us on: Bluesky @salonnaturale.artInstagram @salonnaturaleYouTube @salonnaturale Hosted on Podbean

Summary
In this engaging conversation, Bullethole discusses the complexities of creating queer art, the pressures of artistic identity, and the transition from traditional to digital mediums. The dialogue explores the challenges of audience engagement in a conservative environment, the importance of collaboration, and the journey of monetizing art through innovative avenues like t-shirts. Bullethole shares personal anecdotes about navigating social media and the significance of creating art that resonates with both the artist and the audience.
Keywords
queer art, digital art, creative process, artistic identity, collaboration, social media, audience engagement, t-shirt design, personal expression, art community
Takeaways
Creating queer art is about intimacy and public expression.
The pressure of audience expectations can impact creativity.
Art should be a personal expression, free from critique.
Digital tools have revolutionized the creative process for artists.
Collaboration can enhance artistic visibility and growth.
Monetizing art through merchandise can provide financial stability.
Social media engagement is crucial for artists today.
Art can be a legacy that continues to resonate after the artist's passing.
Humor and cheekiness can be integral to artistic expression.
Artistic identity can be influenced by cultural and social environments.
Guest Information
Bullethole’s Socials: Facebook, Instagram
Chapters
00:00 Balancing Work and Creativity
03:01 The Birth of Bullet Hole
05:54 Navigating Controversy in Art
08:27 The Journey of Artistic Expression
10:57 The Influence of Gay Culture on Art
13:29 The Evolution of Artistic Style
15:52 Technology and Artistic Growth
15:52 Art in a Conservative Environment
18:28 The Shift to Digital Art
21:01 Speed and Efficiency in Creation
25:58 Art Class Antics and Lessons Learned
28:37 The Evolution of Artistic Collaboration
33:42 Navigating Social Media as an Artist
38:17 Struggles and Breakthroughs in Art
42:48 Rediscovering Photography Passion
47:01 The Journey of Learning and Growth
47:03 Digital vs. Film Photography
47:19 Inspiration and Creative Process
48:21 Legacy and Artistic Impact
55:48 S1 Outro-2.mp4
Art in the Raw Resources
Join our Patreon for exclusive content at patreon.com/SalonNaturale
Subscribe to our Substack newsletter at salonnaturale.art
Follow us on:
Bluesky @salonnaturale.art
Instagram: @salonnaturale
YouTube: @SalonNaturale
Available on:
Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Podbean App, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Player FM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, Boomplay
Hosted on Podbean
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at salonnaturale.art to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on: New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire. Drink & Draw Events: Join us monthly for fun nights of creativity and connection at The Dallas Eagle Nude Art Socials: Explore the beauty of the human form through art.
 Subscribe Now and become part of our vibrant community!
Follow us on: Bluesky @salonnaturale.artInstagram @salonnaturaleYouTube @salonnaturale Hosted on Podbean