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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E10 Beards, Bodies, and Boldness: Queer Latino Art with Joey Chabolla
Season 1 · Episode 10
Sunday, June 29, 2025 • Duration 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
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
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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:
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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.
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:
E2 The Art of Photography: Insights from Tom Calloway
Season 1 · Episode 2
Sunday, March 23, 2025 • Duration 27:41
Summary
In this conversation, Tom Calloway shares his journey as a photographer, exploring themes of identity, representation, and the artistic process. He discusses his unique approach to capturing the male figure, influenced by his queer identity and experiences in the yoga community. Tom emphasizes the importance of diversity in his work and the challenges he faces as a non-professional photographer. He reflects on his artistic evolution, inspirations, and future aspirations, encouraging young queer artists to keep creating and sharing their work.
Keywords
Tom Calloway, photography, queer art, male figure, artistic journey, representation, challenges, creative process, influences, identity
Takeaways
Tom Calloway has been photographing for over a decade, starting from a yoga class.
His photography focuses on the sensuality of the male figure, avoiding purely pornographic representations.
Tom emphasizes the importance of natural light in his photography.
He aims to celebrate diversity in body shapes and forms in his work.
Tom's artistic influences include Caravaggio and contemporary photographers like Blake Little.
He believes in the power of conversation with models to create authentic photographs.
Tom faces challenges in finding diverse models in his area, particularly men of color.
He encourages young artists to keep shooting and sharing their work, regardless of age.
Tom is interested in exploring themes beyond cisgender male nudity in his future projects.
He sees queer art as a means to break societal norms and celebrate the human body.
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:
E1 The Artistic Evolution of Rob Clarke
Season 1 · Episode 1
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 • Duration 29:04
Summary
In this conversation, @Rob Clarke discusses his artistic journey, exploring the evolution of his style from traditional to digital mediums. He reflects on the influence of everyday life and pop culture on his work, the role of humor in balancing darker themes, and the impact of the internet on art communities. Clarke also navigates the complexities of personal identity in relation to audience expectations and the challenges of masculinity in contemporary art. He shares insights on the future of art in the age of AI and digital trends, concluding with personal reflections on his artistic direction.
Keywords
Rob Clarke, queer art, digital art, artistic evolution, humor in art, everyday inspiration, kinks in art, internet and art, masculinity in art, AI in art
Takeaways
Rob Clarke has been an artist for many decades, evolving from traditional to digital mediums.
The shift to digital art allows for more edits but can hinder commitment to initial ideas.
Everyday life and personal experiences significantly influence Clarke's artistic process.
Humor plays a crucial role in Clarke's art, balancing darker themes with playfulness.
Clarke's work often explores kinks and personal experiences, reflecting broader queer narratives.
The internet has transformed the visibility and expression of queer art communities.
Clarke feels a disconnect with younger audiences but hopes to connect through his art.
Navigating personal identity in art involves balancing authenticity with audience expectations.
The rise of AI in art raises questions about the future of traditional artistic skills.
Clarke's reflections on nudity and self-acceptance highlight a personal evolution in his life.
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:
E8 Balancing Queer Creativity and Commerce with Bullethole
Season 1 · Episode 8
Sunday, June 1, 2025 • Duration 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
Season 1 · Episode 7
Sunday, May 18, 2025 • Duration 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
Season 1 · Episode 3
Monday, May 5, 2025 • Duration 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
Season 1 · Episode 5
Monday, April 21, 2025 • Duration 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:
S1:E5 Exploring Vulnerability Through The Naked Project
Season 1 · Episode 5
Sunday, April 20, 2025 • Duration 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:
E4 The Art of Identity: Boy Donald Shorter's Journey
Episode 6
Monday, April 7, 2025 • Duration 35:18
Summary
In this conversation, Boy Donald shares his artistic journey, exploring themes of identity, race, gender, and sexuality through various mediums including dance, drag, and film. He discusses the transformative power of drag, the challenges faced as a gender nonconforming artist, and the importance of representation in the BDSM community. Donald reflects on his experiences in Broadway, the creative process behind his projects, and his aspirations for future work that inspires and uplifts marginalized voices.
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:
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00:00 From Collector to Creator: The Journey Begins
02:39 Character Development: The Birth of Giant Girl Adventures
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07:43 Personal Reflections: The Connection to Characters
10:08 Influences and Revelations: The Power of Storytelling
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53:12 Lessons of Forgiveness and Self-Acceptance
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57:07 Artistic Trends and Personal Preferences
01:01:14 Fueling Creativity and Overcoming Challenges
01:04:09 Legacy and Future Aspirations
00:00 Introduction to Tom Calloway
02:08 The Journey into Photography
04:10 Artistic Philosophy and Approach
10:04 Influences and Inspirations
12:59 Queer Identity and Representation
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21:54 Evolution of Artistic Style
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00:00 Introduction to Rob Clark and His Artistic Journey
04:11 Evolution of Artistic Style and Mediums
06:57 Influences of Everyday Life on Art
09:29 Creating the World of Scoot
12:04 Humor and Dark Themes in Art
15:03 Personal Experiences and Kinks in Art
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25:13 Reflections on Nudism and Personal Growth
28:46 Outro v1.mp4
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
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
