Art Silent Auction featuring Marian Mekhail

On Saturday, January 14th from 5PM - 9PM come and check out some amazing art and even have a chance to take it home in a silent auction.  Hosted by and featuring the work of the incredibly talented Marian Mekhail

Place: Kindred Coffee Company 
Address: 8700 N Tarrant Pkwy #109, North Richland Hills, TX 76182

Date: Saturday January 14th

5-9 PM (Live Music 7-9PM)

Bidding starts at $50.00

Women In Transit Cocktail Reception

words by Marco Smith                                                                                                   Photo by Tasteworthy Photography

If I told you I knew where this was going I'd be lying.  That this was all part of my master plan and it turned out exactly as I thought it would, that would be untrue.  Truth of the matter is this was something that I stumbled on.  I just started writing a list of people I wanted to profile and by the time I got to the fifth name I realized they were all women.  And that was it, Women In Transit was born.  But that is just the tip of the iceberg of what I didn't know.  I had no idea where this journey would take me.  No clue about the friendships I would make, the things I would learn, and how I would grow.

Photo by 1 Plus Cool Visuals

As progressive and as forward thinking as I like to think I am, even I underestimated the power of women and the impact they can have as a unified collective.  Women In Transit became something bigger than I was and has taken a life of it's own.  I could have never guessed the reaction from the audience who read the articles or the reception of the attendees at the event.  How the feedback opened my eyes to perspectives I had yet to even contemplate.

Photo by Tasteworthy Photography

There was the strength and perseverance of Tiffani, the dopeness of Ursa, the infectious positive vibes of Christina, and the realness of Erica.  Takiyah taught me what a late bloomer was and how cool it is to be one.  Angela taught me I don't have to be just great at just one thing. Dani showed me what tenured knowledge in your profession looks like with youthful spirit and Morgana showed me how to be comfortable in your own skin artistically. Amber and Shareea shoot with lenses that literally romance the very world that we inhabit while Mel's art is the very lifestyle that she lives.  Yasmine's journey shows how she managed to go through life and keep on dancing while Marian's depth and artistic range know no bounds.

Photo by Tasteworthy Photography

Now comes the challenge of going forward and building on the foundation that was set.  A responsibility that I take great pleasure in.  In 2017 we'll take it to the next level!  Although Women In Transit was about celebrating the talent of these phenomenal ladies I can say that I truly benefited from it as well and couldn't think of a better way to end 2016.  Thanks you ladies!

WOMEN IN TRANSIT COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Free People Afro Art and Fashion Show

FREE PEOPLE AFRO ART AND FASHION SHOW intends to celebrate the African American art and style perspective and bring awareness of these creatives to the Dallas community through fashion design and art. Designers and artists have been handpicked, each with a unique design aesthetic,that contributes to their individual style story. The FREE PEOPLE art show will shed light on current social issues, creating progressive dialogue amongst its spectators, and most importantly, highlighting the vast diversity within the DFW Metroplex.

Come Saturday, January 7, 2017 for a night of epic creative proportions. Complimentary drinks and DJ SO4KIS setting the tone, this event is conscious and sexy. After 5 attire is strongly suggested. Enjoy a traditional gallery presentation, curated by Nychelle Elise and a style showcase presented by Ashley Williams. Prepare to see original designs from:

Devaun Robinson
Akisha Kirkland
Mykel Rose
and an accessories presentation from Bow Tie Mike

Highlighted visual artists include:

Nychelle Elise
Kirk NOIR 1 Garnett
The Noiz
Fragyle Art
Spencer Evans
Veulah J
Riley Holloway
Pamela Danai
Aleisha Art
Fela Raymond
Gabby Rachel
Angela Webb
JetheVANDL
John Owens
...and more!

Get your tickets here

WOMEN IN TRANSIT COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Over the years, It’s been said by many male artists that out of all the creative inspirations to be had, The Woman is by far the ultimate source of their inspiration, whether it be music, photography, fashion or design. Perhaps because The Woman, by nature, has the capacity to create something extraordinary and give it birth. While the concept of men celebrating their female muses is common and flattering, it often overlooks the many contributions of their female counterparts. They represent a diverse collective that occupy this city’s artistic space. Over the next few weeks we will profile some of Dallas' most phenomenal female creatives and discover what inspires them. It will then all culminate in a celebration of them at our meet and greet cocktail reception for these dynamic ladies. These are our "Women In Transit." 

You are cordially invited to join us in a celebration as we honor these phenomenal women. The evening will consist of drinks, good people and sounds provided by one of our very own honorees Ursa Minor

BLACKLOVE OPENING SHOW

From a personal perspective I can't think  of a subject more simple yet complex or important yet under-valued as Blacklove.  The concept of love unfortunately can be very subjective.  It has many meanings for everyone.  How it feels, how it is expressed, how it is given, and how it is received.  When tackling the issue of Black Love the expression "it's complicated" takes on a whole new meaning.  African Americans have their own set of challenges when it comes to how they relate to one another.  The social constructs of racism, colorism, homophobia, education, misogyny along with many other things all play their part in impacting these relationships and it can take a toll.  But what JerSean Golatt has done with his Black Love project is take all of that out of it and reduced it to the purest form of love that can be expressed in the form of a picture.  Last night I had the opportunity to attend the opening show at the Cultivar Coffee Shop.

photo | JerSean Golatt

The images are of hope, friendship, honesty, and most importantly love.  Each one representing a story that gives a snapshot of that couple's journey in love. What Golatt is able to achieve is capturing the most authentic representations of what true love is.  It's a small glimpse of the intangible bond that is shared by those who have chosen to take the journey of life together.  I'm a bit of a romantic so it may resonate with me a little more but the Black Love project is the perfect example of saying so much without saying anything at all. He's even taken it a step further by launching a website that will continue to tell these stories and couples are allowed to submit their own love story.  They say a picture is worth a thousand words and if that's true then there aren't enough words to capture the worth of these photos.

Photo | JerSean Golatt

For Oak Cliff Back To School Festival 2016

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas is hosting the second annual For Oak Cliff Back to School Festival presented by Celanese Corporation and Texas Instruments, on Saturday, August 13, from 9 AM-12 PM at Glendale Park(1515 E Ledbetter Dr, Dallas, TX 75216).

This festival aims to help parents in Oak Cliff equip their children with tools to succeed. The first 1,000 Pre-K to 12th grade students to pre-register online will receive a free backpack and school supplies; students that pre-register must check in on-site by 10 AM to secure a free backpack and school supplies. Additional backpacks and school supplies will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The festival is open to the public and will feature community resources, music, crafts, cultural performances and more!

Plus, the first 1,000 guests (parents/guardians and students) to arrive and check in at the festival will receive a wrist band for free lunch.

Kit and Ace Speaker Series

By Brittani Batts

Conversation, clothes and cocktails can basically sum of this great night. The amazingly chic couple Eddie and Angelee Fortuna, creators of HIS + HER style blog, hosted a ‘Curating the Perfect Shot’ event at Kit and Ace.  The invitation said it would be a fit and style session, where guests would be broken up into groups for fashion tips.  However, it turned out being a great social among great people. Few people knew each other coming in, but everyone knew each other once it was time to leave.  One of the other things on the agenda for the night was to learn to create the perfect ‘Old-Fashioned’ Cocktail.

Eddie  started the drink-making, making sure to explain what he was using and why, however, once the great conversations started, it was every man for himself.  Guests used bitters, Bourbon, orange peels and simple syrup to make their own interpretation of the signature cocktail of the night.  “But do not forget to add the great Luxardo Maraschino cherries.  They truly give it that extra great taste.  Within the drink and also eaten afterwards.  Even though they are $20 a jar, they are definitely worth it for the perfect Old-Fashioned.” And of course by his side was his beautiful wife and partner, Angelee, both wearing Kit and Ace from head to toe. Eddie wore the Cowan Crew pullover sweater and Trouser, while Angelee wore their signature Page Blouse and Bartlett Trouser.  “These are my favorite pants, “ Angelee proudly shared.  “On the back, at the ankle there is a clip that adjusts from loose to tight, from loose trouser feel to like the skinny leg pant, possibly for heels or boots.  Easy transition from work to night.”

New to Dallas, Kit and Ace is based out of Vancouver so not only are they a step ahead of the seasons, but also they receive new fashions every Tuesday.  Their store is already full of beautiful sweaters, scarves, and trench coats all made from their signature ‘Technical Cashmere’ from Mongolia, China.  “Our Motto is ‘Time is Precious’ and all of our items look good and feel amazing,” says Travis Miller, shop director. “We are also big on showcasing local talent and fun.” On their walls, they have paintings from local artists and they proudly rotate artists’ work as well to show support.  “We will also have a Pop Up shop soon where local artists can display their work for the night and sell items as well.”  With such warm vibes from both Kit and Ace and the HIS+HER blog, I look forward to any event either one have in the future.

Diner En Blanc Dallas

Anyone who knows me knows that I typically avoid "all-white parties" if I can help it. I honestly just think they're corny.  In my head I envision this lame attempt to re-enact Diddy's legendary now defunct Labor Day shindig he used to host annually in the Hamptons. And personally I think guys in all white look like douche-bags. Women look great but guys...not so much. The white rimmed shades, white watches, white linen and the dreaded white dress shoe...smh.  So when I first heard of the Diner En Blanc I wasn't that excited and to be honest I didn't know much about it and then I did a little research and asked some friends who had attended in other cities

I was met with stories, memories, and experiences they described as those that would last a lifetime.  How friends and loved ones donned in all white came together for one incredible evening.  Much like in the same way a group of friends came together 27 years ago in Paris, France to which this occasion was birthed. This event has since went global has been held from Europe to the Middle East and right back to the Big D itself. So I admit I was intrigued. From the secret location (to which all attendees were bused to from various rendezvous points around the city) to the exclusivity in which people were invited, my interest was definitely peaked

What a time it was indeed! An evening filled with food, fun, and friends.  There was wine, beautiful people and even fireworks! Dallas' inaugural Diner En Blanc was a welcome success and a social event the city will continue to look forward to for sometime to come.  Cheers!

Africa Amedia: Art Exhibition // Performance Piece

By Marco Smith

By now you already know who Justin Adu is and if you don’t know let me give you a brief summary.  Justin Adu is a mad scientist disquised as an artist.  Or more like this creative enigma posing as mild mannered designer.  Or maybe he’s the coming of the next great renessaince.  Actually he’s neither of these things and all of these things all at once.  When trying to explain or describe who or what he is the biggest mistake you can make is trying to limit him to some lame creative category or some box society places us in.  All you need to know is that if you see his name anywhere or associated with anything you need to pay attention.  Case in point: Africa Amedia.

African Amedia is a satirical art exhibition and performance piece curated, written, and directed by Adu. It features mixed media paintings, art installations, photography, video and a one-night-only performance piece-taking place during the opening May 10th 2015. African Amedia is a fictional television network that highlights some of the negative portrayals, generalizations, and stereotypes the media casts against African Americans.  Adu hopes that people coming to see the exhibit at the African American Museum will realize the value of getting to know one another and not basing their decision on negative, skewed images that the media puts out in the universe.  African Amedia is an open letter that Adu hopes will inspire people to look past stereotypes and relate to each other based on content of character, not color of skin.

The Revolution Will Be Digitized

THE REVOLUTION: COCKTAIL & LAUNCH PARTY ***Marco Smith***

Justin Productions Presents
“The Revolution” Cocktail X Launch Party
A Black History Month Celebration 
Honoring 28 African American DFW Influencers
At The Historic Texas Theater
Wednesday, February 25th 6:30-10pm

Artist Justin Adu starts of 2015 with the aim to bring attention to Black Excellence at its finest. This event will conclude Black History Month by Honoring 28 African American Influencers in The DFW Area and attendees will also get to view the trailer to Adu’s upcoming Art Exhibition & Performance Piece.

The Revolution will be held on Wednesday, February 25th from 6:30-10pm at the historic Texas Theater in Dallas, Texas. There is no fee to attend the event but donations will be graciously accepted. Any funding accepted will be used to assist in bringing more culturally relevant events to the DFW area.

This Launch will just be the beginning of a project that Adu hopes will allow the viewers to not only see how African Americans are viewed in media but also honor the influence of African Americans that positively affect the culture. “My goal is that African Americans will understand the importance of celebrating each other more.” - Adu

GET YOUR TICKET HERE

// FREE //

THE REVOLUTION: Cocktail & Launch Party

Justin Productions Presents
“The Revolution” Cocktail X Launch Party
A Black History Month Celebration 
Honoring 28 African American DFW Influencers
At The Historic Texas Theater
Wednesday, February 25th 6:30-10pm

Artist Justin Adu starts of 2015 with the aim to bring attention to Black Excellence at its finest. This event will conclude Black History Month by Honoring 28 African American Influencers in The DFW Area and attendees will also get to view the trailer to Adu’s upcoming Art Exhibition & Performance Piece. 

The Revolution will be held on Wednesday, February 25th from 6:30-10pm at the historic Texas Theater in Dallas, Texas. There is no fee to attend the event but donations will be graciously accepted. Any funding accepted will be used to assist in bringing more culturally relevant events to the DFW area.

This Launch will just be the beginning of a project that Adu hopes will allow the viewers to not only see how African Americans are viewed in media but also honor the influence of African Americans that positively affect the culture. “My goal is that African Americans will understand the importance of celebrating each other more.” - Adu

GET YOUR TICKET HERE

// FREE //

Abnormal Artbeats Vol. 1

Nerv Gallery announces grand re­opening of the remodeled gallery space with special exhibit event by artist Adu benefiting the Nancy J. Cochran Elementary School arts program and future art programs in the DFW area.

This event is open to the public and FREE. Adults, teens, and children are all welcome to come experience an art show like no other, complete with live music, food trucks, and live art workshops appropriate for all ages. The event also marks the grand re­opening of Nerv Gallery after an extensive remodeling of the space. Workshops will be facilitated by 8 artists, curated by Adu, named by Dallas Observer as one of the top 30 under 30 leaders of Dallas, who will also have a solo exhibit on display. A portion of the profits of sold works will be donated to Nancy J. Cochran Elementary School in Dallas, TX in support of their arts program. Come join Adu in improving test scores, attitudes, social skills, and creative thinking. Donations of art supplies are welcome and encouraged!

Record Store Day!

For all my "Crate Diggers" and vinyl enthusiasts alike that wonderful time is upon us once again.  The weather is nice, the city is beautiful, and we all gather throughout the metroplex for that never ending search for a once forgotten music medium.  April 19, 2014 marks the 7th annual Record Store Day!  A day where all music connoisseurs troll the city for great deals on their favorite artists.  The resurgence of vinyl in the last few years has created a subculture of people who will go out to tomorrow happily trolling the city in search of that most obscure find.  There will be new pressings of old releases and original pressings.

DESTINATIONS: Dallas Art Fair

Spring is here and with the gorgeous weather comes all sorts of ways to enjoy the city.  Since it is Arts Week in Dallas there will be plenty of events showcasing some of the best and brightest in the art world.  One of them being the Dallas Art Fair.  Located at the Fashion Industry Gallery – adjacent to the Dallas Museum of Art in the revitalized downtown Arts District – the 2014 Dallas Art Fair will feature over 90 prominent national and international art dealers and galleries exhibiting painting, sculpture, works on paper, photography, video, and installation by modern and contemporary artists.  The Fair is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday through Sunday and tickets start at $25.

DESTINATIONS: "We From Dallas" Screening

To help kick off the Dallas International Film Festival will be the red carpet premier of "We From Dallas" at the Angelika Theater 04/08 at 7:30pm.  It's director Teddy Cool's ode to Dallas hip hop. A locally produced documentary covering the rise of hip hop culture in Dallas,Tx. From the early days of KNON radio, the golden era of Deep Ellum, and the rise of the southern rap culture, we speak to the heroes and legends that made it all possible. DJ’s, producers, emcess, b-boys, graffiti artists, no stone is left unturned. For the first time, all the architects of Dallas hip-hop are brought together in a feature length documentary to speak on their city, the music, the fans and let the world know WE FROM DALLAS.

DESTINATIONS: "Groceries: Fresh Produce" Pop Up Art Exhibition

Two of Dallas' own great artistic minds come together to produce (pun intended) a very fresh (and another one) collaboration.  A pop-up art exhibition featuring the works of Viola Delgado and Rosie Lee.  It's something that is sure to get the people talking and further expand the creative landscape of this city.  This show is also about giving back as the artists have asked all attendees to bring canned goods to support the North Texas Food Bank.  This is one that is NOT to be missed.  But don't take it from us, just listen to the artists in their own words:   "Everything we produce is fresh"

DESTINATIONS: RBMA Film Premiere: What Difference Does It Make?

On February 17, Red Bull Music Academy will premiere 'What Difference Does It Make? A Film About Making Music' at the Texas Theatre at 7:00pm.  The film features Dallas' own Erykah Badu, Lee 'Scratch' Perry, Brian Eno, Philip Glass, Giorgio Moroder, Nile Rodgers, Rakim, Skream, Q-Tip, Bernie Worrell, Egyptian Lover, Ken Scott, Thundercat, Richie Hawtin, James Murphy, Debbie Harry, Stephen O’ Malley and many others. All have been involved in the Red Bull Music Academy as guest lecturers, studio mentors or performing artists. As well as presenting these artists' unique voices, the film takes us inside all sorts of studios and performance spaces, all the while paying homage to NYC with arresting images shot with handheld cameras.

While the film focuses in on the creative process – it ends up asking more questions about life itself. 

BLOG ABOUT TOWN: The Family Dinner

So I was invited by a good friend of mine to something he referred to as "The Family Dinner". Now I like to consider myself as someone in-the-know but if I'm being completely honest I just assumed I was showing up to take pictures of a family gathering of his. I had no idea what it was. I never even intended to be writing the blog that you're reading now, I was just doing a good friend a favor. Not to mention it was being held at The Island Spot which is owned by a mutual friend of us both. And lets be honest after all, do you really need a reason to go eat some good jerk chicken and plantains?! I think not! But What I encountered was much more than I expected. What I walked in on was this network of young professional men and women who came there merely to meet one another, connect with each other and fellowship over a good meal. Founded in New York in 2008, the community-based family dinner tradition now hosts thousands of the nation's most influential, passionate and diverse young adults, over family style dinners twice a year in each city across the country. They're now in New York, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Los Angeles, Portland, Chicago, Miami, Austin and growing.
 We all know that Dallas has the penchant for bringing out the same individuals to the same social gatherings and while I always run into a few people I know I was pleasantly surprised to meet some new faces. Some faces that came from as far as Houston. The really refreshing thing about this experience was that it was really about genuinely connecting. Not to talk about what degree you had, what firm you worked at, or to try to pick up a member of the opposite sex. Now I would be remiss if I didn't mention how attractive the crowd was and that certainly didn't hurt things but it went much further than that. All pretentiousness was left at the door and people got a chance to eat great food and truly engage with one another. It's good to know that Dallas is now part of the "The Family".