Truth In This Art Podcast - Your Source for Conversations with Artists, Innovators, Creatives & Cultural Leaders

Welcome aboard 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, under the guidance of your host, Rob Lee. On today’s episode, we have the masterful Monster Maker, Tristian "TrisRex" Johnson, whose artistic journey was ignited on the South Side of Chicago through a fascination with horror and sci-fi films, comics, and action figures. Renowned for his hauntingly creative reinterpretations of iconic DC Comics characters intertwined with horror nuances, TrisRex's unique style has earned him accolades and features across esteemed platforms like Cosplay Alliance Magazine, Cinema Makeup School, and more. His work serves as a personal tapestry reflecting life experiences, vividly embodied in his reimagined pieces such as the "Hellbat Armor" from Batman and Robin #33. Beyond his captivating creations, TrisRex embraces his role as an Analyst, utilizing his platform to empower the cosplay community to unleash their inner monsters.

In this broadcast, we dive deep into:

• How Tristan's early exposure to cinematic classics like Aliens and Jurassic Park ignited his lifelong passion for creatures and monsters, molding his artistic journey.
• Tristan's self-taught journey in fabrication, unveiling the impact of YouTube tutorials and trial and error on honing his intricate crafting techniques.
• Delve into Tristan's artistic preferences on the podcast, as he elucidates why foam stands as his go-to medium, discussing its remarkable versatility and prowess in creating diverse textures and visual effects.
• Tune in to discover the story behind Tristan's cherished creation, the Royal Guard Alien, and how its conception marked a significant leap in his creative liberation, shaping the trajectory of his monster-making prowess.
• Engage with Tristan's thought-provoking insights on the podcast, where he delves into the significance of infusing his heart and soul into his work, revealing how this authenticity sets his creations apart in an era of modern entertainment.

Tristan shares his journey from growing up in Chicago to finding his passion for cosplay and costume design. He discusses his love for creatures and monsters, inspired by movies like Aliens and Jurassic Park. Tristan also talks about his training in theater and his YouTube University education in fabrication techniques. He explains why he prefers working with foam and the creative freedom it offers. Tristan shares his favorite creations, including the Royal Guard Alien, and discusses the challenges he has faced in his projects. He reflects on the lack of soul in modern entertainment and the importance of creating from the heart.

Mentioned in this episode:

TrisRex

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This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.

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Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.

Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.

About "The Truth In This Art"

"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.

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