#60 – How Do Artists Thrive In Baltimore? | Spence

Musician, Creative Consultant, and Band Leader Raymond J. Spence joins the podcast.

Spence shares how growing up in Baltimore shapes his approach to music, creative consulting, and community building. Spence’s work bridges performing, teaching, and guiding artists through the early stages of their creative journeys.

Spence discusses how collaborating across disciplines and organizations fuels Baltimore’s creative boom. He talks about helping both artists and businesses develop strategies, build portfolios, and jumpstart new ideas. Spence details blending hands-on art with consulting, and how both require trust, accountability, and authentic self-reflection.

Spence explores the realities of being a creative entrepreneur now. He shares navigating growth, balancing inspiration with pressure, and using discipline as the foundation for success. For Spence, creativity is both celebration and challenge, shaped by family, local networks, and the evolution of his Storage Unit Collective. Spence uses his experience to advocate for sustainable artistry and meaningful connection.

Topics Covered:

• How Baltimore’s arts scene and safer city climate influence Spence’s creative work
• The impact of trust, collaboration, and mentorship on artists’ development
• Building strategies for creativity in music, education, and business
• Blending consulting, performance, and teaching as a creative professional
• Finding balance between inspiration, desperation, and discipline
• The value of community, resilience, and local partnerships
• How art and creative consulting can spark growth, healing, and belonging

Ready to see Spence’s creative world? Follow @spence_start on Instagram or visit www.spencestart.com to connect and explore upcoming events, music, and more.

The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council’s Creativity Grant and Mayor’s Individual Artist Award – Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). 

Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

• Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
• Edited by Daniel Alexis
• Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

• Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
• Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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