Art in the Raw: A Podcast About Queer Artists

E6 Reclaiming Masculinity through Art with Benjamine Lester

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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.

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    Guest Information

    Guest’s Website: Lester Art

    Guest’s Instagram: @benjaminelesterart
    Guest’s YouTube: @figurativeartistbenjaminel8395

     

    Chapters

    Chapters

    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

     

    Art in the Raw Resources

    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

    Edited by _big_texx_

    Hosted on Podbean

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    Art in the Raw: A Podcast About Queer ArtistsBy David Smith, Salon Naturale