Welcome to "The Truth In This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In today's episode, we have a captivating conversation with Greg Hatem, the co-owner and co-founder of Bizarre Baltimore, a one-of-a-kind store founded in 2013 by him and Brian Henry, both originally from the Baltimore area. Bizarre started as a small-scale retail experiment in the Hampden neighborhood, offering a fascinating array of natural history specimens, medical and funerary antiques, natural home goods, jewelry, and prints. Over time, Bizarre gained recognition for curating and hosting an annual taxidermy competition at The Walters Art Museum, as well as providing educational workshops on taxidermy and entomology. Additionally, they have their own unique line of scented candles. Beyond his work at the store, Greg Hatem is a talented musician and producer, actively involved in bands such as Natural Velvet and Moth Broth.

Today's episode uncovers:

• The fascinating world of Bizarre Baltimore, a unique store showcasing preserved animal specimens, medical antiques, and quirky jewelry, as we take you on an enthralling journey through their curious collections.
• Step into the extraordinary world of Bizarre Baltimore as we explore their mission to provide an immersive and interactive shopping experience, where you can personally encounter and acquire a range of uncommon and captivating items.
• Unveil the secrets behind Bizarre Baltimore's success as we delve into their customer-centric approach, learning how listening to their patrons and curating based on their interests has shaped this captivating store.
• Dive into the vibrant and thriving creative community of Baltimore, discovering how the city's dynamic atmosphere has paved the way for innovative entrepreneurs to establish businesses with limited resources.
• Get to know the multitalented Greg Hatem, co-owner of Bizarre Baltimore, and explore his extraordinary musical journey as he brings his passion for music to life through his involvement in bands like Natural Velvet and Moth Broth.

Join us for an engaging conversation as Greg discusses the origins of Bizarre Baltimore, a store that specializes in oddities and curiosities. He talks about the unique items they offer, such as taxidermy specimens, medical antiques, and funerary antiques. Greg explains that the store aims to provide a space where people can see and purchase these unusual items in person, rather than just online or in a museum. He also highlights the importance of listening to customers and stocking items based on their interests and requests. Greg shares his love for Baltimore and its creative community, as well as his optimism for the future of the city under the leadership of Mayor Brandon Scott. He also mentions his own creative pursuits in music and upcoming projects.

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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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