Art in the Raw is a podcast exploring the bold and unfiltered world of queer art. Hosted by David Smith of Salon Naturale, each episode features intimate conversations with LGBTQ+ artists who push boundaries in nude art, photography, painting, and multimedia. Discover the inspirations, struggles, and creative processes behind their work - raw, vulnerable, and unapologetically queer. New episodes every other Sunday.
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Données mises à jour le 04/07/2026
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E14: CinéWild: Queer Cinema, Community, and Courage with DR Mann-Hanson
Épisode 14
dimanche 31 août 2025 • Durée 01:05:09
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
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New Podcast Episodes: Insights, interviews, and discussions that inspire.
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E13: Throwing Light and Breaking Binaries: The Art and Activism of LTJ Reads
Saison 1 · Épisode 13
vendredi 8 août 2025 • Durée 58:07
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.
Chapters
Guest Links
Art in the Raw Links
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Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
E12: Transformation of Dangerous Spaces: Inside the Art and Activism of Christopher W. Quigley
Épisode 12
dimanche 3 août 2025 • Durée 56:47
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.
Chapters
Guest Info
Art in the Raw Resources
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Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
E11: Exploring Queer Erotica and Sci-Fi with J. W. Steed
Saison 1 · Épisode 11
dimanche 13 juillet 2025 • Durée 53:33
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
Guest Website and Socials
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Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
E10 Beards, Bodies, and Boldness: Queer Latino Art with Joey Chabolla
Saison 1 · Épisode 10
dimanche 29 juin 2025 • Durée 33:52
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
Guest Info
Resources
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E9 Giant Girl Adventures: A New Era in Comics
Saison 1 · Épisode 9
lundi 16 juin 2025 • Durée 01:02:51
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.
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Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
E8 Balancing Queer Creativity and Commerce with Bullethole
Saison 1 · Épisode 8
dimanche 1 juin 2025 • Durée 57:17
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.
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
E7 Exploring Mythology in Queer Art with Rene Farias
Saison 1 · Épisode 7
dimanche 18 mai 2025 • Durée 35:39
Summary
In this engaging conversation, artist Rene Farias discusses the profound influence of mythology on his work, exploring themes of identity, culture, and queerness. He shares insights into his artistic process, the mediums he employs, and the social critiques embedded in his art. Farias reflects on his evolution as an artist, the challenges he faces, and his aspirations for future exhibitions, all while emphasizing the importance of being remembered through his art.
Keywords
mythology, art, queer identity, cultural influences, social critique, artistic process, watercolor, oil painting, personal expression, Rene Farias
Takeaways
Rene's fascination with mythology began in childhood, particularly with unicorns and mermaids.
He creates a personal universe in his art to express feelings and thoughts.
Growing up in Cuba, he was influenced by a rich cultural mix but distanced himself from political themes in his work.
As a gay man, he finds a unique connection to mythology, often depicting naked figures in his art.
Rene uses different mediums for different themes: watercolor for eroticism and oil for darker social critiques.
His artistic process evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading him to explore watercolor techniques.
He emphasizes the importance of using reference photos in his work for accuracy and detail.
Rene's art often addresses social issues, particularly those affecting the LGBTQ+ community and his Cuban heritage.
He aims to create art that resonates with viewers and sparks conversation.
Rene aspires to have more exhibitions and is excited about future opportunities in the art world.
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
E6 Reclaiming Masculinity through Art with Benjamine Lester
Saison 1 · Épisode 3
lundi 5 mai 2025 • Durée 38:33
Summary
In this conversation, Benjamin Lester discusses his artistic journey, focusing on the themes of masculinity, queer identity, and storytelling through art. He shares how his personal experiences, including struggles with mental health and the support of his community, have shaped his work. Lester emphasizes the importance of reclaiming narratives within the queer community and the role of art in expressing vulnerability and resilience. He also reflects on the challenges he faces in the art world, particularly regarding acceptance and representation, and his aspirations for the future of his art and its impact on society.
Keywords
queer art, male nude, storytelling, masculinity, community support, creative process, art challenges, legacy, mythology, resilience
Takeaways
Benjamin Lester's art blends classical techniques with a queer perspective.
Art became a refuge for Lester during dark times.
He aims to reclaim masculinity through the male nude.
Community support plays a crucial role in his artistic journey.
Lester's work explores themes of memory and resilience.
His creative process is driven by intuition and personal stories.
He faces challenges in a conservative art world.
Lester hopes to leave a legacy that speaks to future generations.
His reimagining of mythology reflects personal narratives.
Art can challenge societal norms and foster connection.
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
E5 Exploring Vulnerability Through The Naked Project
Saison 1 · Épisode 5
lundi 21 avril 2025 • Durée 42:12
Summary
In this episode of Art in the Raw, host David Smith interviews photographer Alberto Leon, who shares his transformative journey into the world of photography, particularly focusing on queer nude male photography. Alberto discusses how he found his passion through self-exploration and vulnerability, leading to the creation of The Naked Project. He reflects on the cultural influences that shape his art, the importance of emotional connection in photography, and the challenges of facing rejection and censorship. Throughout the conversation, Alberto emphasizes the significance of living authentically and encourages aspiring artists to embrace their vulnerabilities and pursue their passions without fear.
Keywords
photography, vulnerability, queer art, nude photography, self-discovery, cultural influences, artistic journey, emotional connection, The Naked Project, personal growth
Takeaways
Alberto Leon's journey into photography began with self-dates and reflection.
The Naked Project focuses on vulnerability and human connection.
Cultural influences shape how we perceive the human body in art.
Nude photography allows for deeper emotional expression.
Alberto believes in the therapeutic power of photography.
Facing rejection can be a sign of visibility and impact.
Art should evoke emotions, whether positive or negative.
Living authentically is crucial for personal fulfillment.
Alberto encourages aspiring artists to just start creating.
Photography has been a life-saving passion for Alberto.
Stay Connected with Salon Naturale!
Ready to dive deeper into the world of queer art, creativity, and community? Visit our website at to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on:
He embraces his trauma as artistic fuel—addressing childhood abuse, sexual assault, racism, and mental illness with ongoing therapy and sobriety.
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
Quigley advises young queer artists to focus on making authentic, plentiful art without agenda, embracing creation as a fundamental ritual for growth and impact.
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
00:00 From Collector to Creator: The Journey Begins
02:39 Character Development: The Birth of Giant Girl Adventures
05:15 Artistic Inspirations: Shaping Ronnie Kane
07:43 Personal Reflections: The Connection to Characters
10:08 Influences and Revelations: The Power of Storytelling
12:58 Secret Identities: LGBTQ Representation in Comics
15:14 Artistic Collaboration: Evolving Together
17:39 Challenges and Triumphs: Revitalizing Giant Girl
20:35 Vulnerability in Storytelling: Personal Experiences
22:51 The Evolution of Artistic Process
25:37 Staying True: Balancing Growth and Consistency
28:25 Overcoming Doubts: The Future of Giant Girl
30:45 Emotional Depth: The Heart of Storytelling
33:10 Mastering Techniques: Action vs. Emotion
36:09 Creative Solutions and Storytelling Dynamics
38:49 Character Development and Visual Storytelling
39:44 Navigating the Indie Comics Landscape
40:25 Impact of Political Climate on Creators
44:51 Representation and Identity in Art
47:44 Personal Stories and Political Influence
51:47 Amplifying Trans Voices in the Arts
53:12 Lessons of Forgiveness and Self-Acceptance
55:29 Advice for Emerging Trans Artists
57:07 Artistic Trends and Personal Preferences
01:01:14 Fueling Creativity and Overcoming Challenges
01:04:09 Legacy and Future Aspirations
00:00 The Allure of Mythology in Art
03:55 Cultural Influences and Personal Identity
06:31 Queerness and Mythological Interpretation
09:14 Artistic Techniques and Styles
12:12 Social Critique Through Art
15:10 The Evolution of Artistic Process
18:03 Challenges in Artistic Expression
20:41 The Role of Mythology in Queer Art
23:20 Future Aspirations and Artistic Goals
35:14 S1 Outro.mp4
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
03:37 The Spark of Artistic Expression
07:14 Influences and Inspirations in Art
10:20 Coming Out and Community Support
11:09 Exploring Tenderness in Masculinity
14:37 Artistic Process and Techniques
17:45 Modeling and Vulnerability in Art
20:45 The Concept of Summoning Circle
22:48 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Art
24:23 Navigating Artistic Identity and Acceptance
26:06 The Atelier System: A Double-Edged Sword
30:07 Finding One's Voice in Art
32:32 Reimagining Mythology Through Art
35:12 Legacy and the Artist's Journey
40:38 Rapid-Fire Artistic Questions
45:51 S1 Outro.mp4
00:00 Introduction to Alberto Leon and The Naked Project
03:10 The Journey to Discovering Photography
05:39 The Impact of Cultural Background on Art
08:16 Understanding The Naked Project
10:55 The Therapeutic Nature of Vulnerability
12:24 Unexpected Directions in Photography
15:14 Evolution as an Artist
17:41 The Emotional Connection in Photography
23:47 The Richness of Diverse Perspectives
24:56 Navigating Censorship in Art
28:48 Overcoming Doubts in Artistic Pursuits
30:43 Envisioning the Future of The Naked Project
34:36 Advice for Emerging Queer Artists
39:41 The Legacy of Art and Living Boldly
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