Support Local Arts Magazine Issue IX

ISSUE IX

SPRING EDITION

APRIL - JUNE 2015

The Healing Energy of Julia Watkins Aradia Tuatha Dea Beautiful Creatures Tarot Joe Cartwright

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Inspiration & Information for the Creative Mind S.L.A.M. is offered free as an online interviews publication and print copies are how to’s

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Letterf rom theEditor “Where there is life there is hope,” what an amazing line and how true it is. I recently watched a fantastic movie, The Theory of Everything, about Dr. Stephen Hawking and his struggle with motor neuron disease. The movie proved to be an excellent advertisement for the human condition and our ability to overcome insurmountable odds and thrive in the most challenging of surroundings. Imagine your own body being a prison and still being able to change the world.

Imagine formulating some of the most amazing ideas ever conceived along the way. Imagine transcending your physical being and achieving your dreams! This is not a flight of fancy, this, fellow earthlings, is what we humans are capable of doing. Although most people will never reach this level of transcendence, it is comforting to know that this is a beautiful possibility. Indeed, “the universe has no boundaries.”

When creating Support Local Arts Magazine (S.L.A.M.), this is the philosophy that I had to immerse myself in, the belief that I can do whatever I set my mind too; the belief that anyone can accomplish whatever he or she wants. I knew I had to roll with the punches and weigh the positive and negative aspects of the project. Like a pair of tight underpants, I had to be on my ass and ready for what came next. One thing that can destroy your dreams is self-doubt, like a Porsche coming up fast in your rear view mirror it will overtake you, win the race, beat you, that’s of course if you let it. You can pull out in front of that Porsche, take pole position, grab the race by the balls, and own your self-doubt. If you do not believe in yourself, who will? The time has come to overcome and S.L.A.M. is here to give you a boost. What YOU believe you CAN do plays a vital role in what you achieve in this life.

Every issue of this magazine is a new feat for me. Every blog etches another ring on my tree of life. Every article is lifeblood injected into the veins of artists and creative minds who share in this mind-set. NEVER GIVE UP. Take a journey through our latest ensemble, and get energized by the work of cover artist Julia Watkins; bathe in the aura of the Beautiful Creatures Tarot, and view the world through the watercolours of Mr. Joe Cartwright. See photography in the eyes of Tammy Ruggles who is legally blind, and a few other sublime masterminds who have chosen to enlighten the world with their creations.

For those whose passion lies in paper, pen, tablets or laptops, we have taken the liberty of providing you with tips on how to transform your writing into a career. For our art entrepreneurs we have formulated a fool proof plan to make your art work! Need some ideas on where to go for your next art excursion? Take a voyage with us to observe the art and culture of Italy and Vietnam. Then get ready to rumble with S.L.A.M’s version of the “Tale of the Tape: Procrastination vs Creation,” – the fight for intellectual freedom. Oh, and you might find yourself googling what a didgeridoo is when you read about the Irish fae, eclectic music from the tribe that call themselves Tuatha Dea. These people, and many more intriguing minds, bring a little light to the world and to this edition in their own way – Viva la S.L.A.M! We hope that you will be brave, true to yourself, and most of all, let your fire grow. As a wise man once said to the world, “If you don’t like my fire, then don’t come around, cuz I’m gonna burn one down” (Ben Harper). Burn it down baby, let the world feel your flame.

Lady Grace.

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 03

+ Contributors.

Inspiration and Information for the Creative Mind.

Grecelle Rivera David Cornock Barbara Milisi Jon Neville Dayna Winters Samantha Wilson Brittany Leeann Gregory Megan Meadows Miroslav Velimirovic Tavon Perkins Molly Hemingway Monica Titus Stephanie Reed Letter from the Editor photo credit: Sarah Cruz c 2015 by Support Local Arts Magazine: S.L.A.M. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior perimission be obtained in writing S.L.A.M. is offered free as an online publication and print copies are available for purchase online at artslammag.com. S.L.A.M. is supported by our advertisers. Content submissions are accepted on our website under the Contact Us tab or you can email us directly at ArtsSLAMMag@gmail.com We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisments, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

04 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

Grecelle Rivera, “Lady Grace,” resides on the island of Koh Samui, Thailand. She spends her free time practicing yoga near the ocean, tutoring children, or cooking something healthy and delicious. Her passion is to inspire creative minds, seek out passion in others, and most of all to find peace, harmony and beauty in the details.

Brittany Leeann Gregory is a full time writer living in Austin, Texas, with her Chef husband, Daniel Kim. She has a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a minor in creative writing and French from Sam Houston State University. In addition to writing for S.L.A.M., she updates her WordPress blog, “Novice Cook to Home Cook,” three days a week.

David Cornock hails from the shores of Loch Lomond, Scotland, but now happily a citizen of planet earth, David has managed to call Thailand, Australia, China and Brazil, home.

This exposure, combined with a caustic wit, ensures that he is never short of a tale, or ten!

Megan Meadows is convinced writing is her only career. She lives in Austin, Texas with two loveable dogs and one small cat. In her spare time, she loves to eat sushi and watch crime documentaries.

Barbara Milisi is a Graphic Designer working as a Freelancer. Her hobby is her job, and what makes her happy is helping and sharing her imagination with others. You can find her at: www.behance.net/idiotech.

Jon Neville is a Tampa, Florida-based photographer noted for his work in the field of erotic photography. Originally from Ireland, he established Jon Neville Studio in 2001. In his personal life, it is likely he will be found crawling through the Florida wilds shooting scenery, creatures, and anything that the world puts in front of his lens.

Dayna has a bachelor’s degree in English, and graduated magna cum laude from Sage College in Troy, New York. She is a professional writer/editor, as well as an award-winning author. She resides in Upstate New York with her husband, two pugs, two lion-headed bunnies, ducks, and chickens. She’s the mother of five. She loves art and writing and spends her spare time doing both.

Samantha Wilson, “Sammie,” is an irritatingly excitable, coffee-drinking peruser of all things, and promoter of the arts - minus the pretense. Residing in Austin, TX, she is currently recording an album with herzt band Newlywed (facebook.com/newlywedband).

Miroslav Velimirovic is permanently located in Serbia, Europe. He is an English - Serbian translator who finds himself devoted to international relations and peacekeeping. He is a father of two and husband to his one and only. He says, "Our house is more like a gallery, we have paintings all over our walls, so I have to buy a bigger place now to make space for new ones.”

Tavon Perkins is a writer and contributor for S.L.A.M and Rantlifestyle. A Texas native, making his home in Austin, he’s an avid music listener who enjoys discovering new talent and sharing the hottest up and coming music with the public. You can follow him for the latest news in the entertainment industry on twitter @tavonperkins.

Molly Hemingway is a student of history at Brown University and a freelance writer who is currently located in Milan. Her passions include eating, traveling, and trying to speak Italian.

Monica Titus is a professional singer, actress, and writer in Orlando, Florida. A graduate of Mercer University with a bachelor’s in music and theatre, she maintains her diverse interests, spending her free time writing, reading, performing locally as a spoken word poet, and playing covers on her ukulele.

Contents.

Photography

p.6

Tammy Ruggles: To See Beyond Seeing

p.8

Vladimir Precikoza: From Art to Science

p.10

Christopher Ayres: Recreate Creation

Culture Milan: Europe’ s Most Underrated City

p.15

Hanoi Ca Trù Club: The Last Survivor of a Dying Art

p.34

Visual Arts

p.34

p.18

Julia Watkins (Cover Artist) Art with a Purpose, a Spiritual Purpose Joe Cartwright: Living the Dream Beautiful Creatures Tarot: Fantasy at its Finest

Music

p.18 p.30 p.38 p.16 p.24

Aradia Tuatha Dea

Business Tips

p.6

p.30

p. 26-29

Random Tales of the Tape: Procrastination-vs Creation

p.40

p.38 S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 05

Kentucky

Photography

USA

To See Beyond Seeing.

Tammy Ruggles

Most photographers would agree one of the key elements to their talents is their eye for detail and their particular ability to see special attributes of their subject in ways that many others could not. It affords the picture taker the ability to convey what one sees through their lens in such a way that the viewer has an opportunity to view things from the photographer’s perspective.

So, imagine a world where the very cornerstone of these talents, VISION, is no longer part of the equation. It would be like asking a surgeon to operate without hands, or a chef to create meals without the ability to taste and smell.

Such is the life of Tammy Ruggles, a Kentucky-based photographer whose gradual descent into the darkening world of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) robbed her of such a key talent. Despite the adversity that comes with the disorder, she is a published photographer, writer, and painter.

S.L.A.M caught up with Tammy recently and had the chance to ask her how she tackled life as a legally blind photographer and what this meant to her work.

What stage in life did your vision deteriorate into the world of legally blind … how did it affect your career and personal interests?

By 40, I was legally blind, couldn’t drive, and retired from social work. Art and photography receded into the background of my life. By 2013, I could not see to sketch and I was ready to give art up forever. A friend recommended finger painting, and while I had my doubts, I tried it. I realized art didn’t have to be perfect.

The same year, I thought about photography. I couldn’t see the camera settings or to focus a lens, but I tried it. Today, this art connects me to the visual world.

You seem to have run headlong against the vision disability in your venture into the visual arts. What does this tell us about you?

I’m an artist by nature, and I love art too much to give it up. I may have self-doubt at first, but I push myself – It’s a good feeling.

What kind of camera do you use and is there a certain process that you have to follow in pulling a shoot together?

The simplest way to do a shoot – I have a point-and-shoot camera and have someone set it to auto-focus and black and white before I begin.

As you look to the future, what direction will your career take and how would you quantify success?

How do you compare your black and white photos with your finger painting?

I’ve always believed if you are born with a talent, you should try to use it vocationally, and that’s what I’ve tried to do with photography, art, and writing. Getting paid to do what you love is a success in itself.

With photography, I see best in high contrast; it’s how I choose my subjects. I like the rural themes … highlights … [it’s] crisper, easier for my eyes to define and understand … there is purity to black and white that you don’t have with color.

Are there special challenges in getting recognition given your legally blind status?

The challenge starts with wondering if my photos are good enough.

I don’t want anyone “feeling sorry for me” because I’m a legally blind artist. There are people who say my vision can’t be that bad … others think being a legally blind artist and photographer is impossible. The reason I tell others I am a legally blind is twofold: to let publications or gallery owners know what they’re getting into, and to stop that one visually impaired person from giving art up.

What are you trying to convey with your art?

I want to convey the beauty or interest in something old, rustic, or rural.

But more than that, I want the viewers to decide what it is they feel.

What inspires your photography and what inspiration would you pass on to others?

The inspiration for trying photography comes from a quote by Vincent van Gogh: “If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint’ then, by all means, paint, and that voice will be silenced.”

This is the voice of self-doubt. My advice to others is to try, even when you have doubts.

As we finished talking with Tammy, it became clear that this lady has a certain “vision” that her loss of vision has not impaired. She is able to see beyond the limitation and has adjusted her work to compensate for the physical challenges that she faces. The result is a portfolio of images that rely on heavy contrast to tell their story.

It’s a story of physical adversity and our ability to see beyond it.

by Neville Ronan.

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 07

Valjevo

Photography

From

Art

Serbia

Science

to

When dealing with photography, most people allow personal impressions to guide them: A challenging surrounding, the face of a dear person, or an unforgettable moment. There are rare situations in which an unskilled eye is searching for aesthetics, rather than sensation. For Vladimir Pecikoza, a photographer and archaeologist, it was just a hobby at the beginning. His father had a Super 8 camera at home and Vladimir often had a chance to play with it and to explore the world of motion picture. However, he was a teenager when he took his first camera, a handy tool to attract a girl’s attention. These days, his photography speaks for itself, and many local exhibitions behind him prove his skill and talent.

08 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

Vladimir Pecikoza

{

I found a new, creative microcosm using macro, and these specific photos are still so fascinating to me. Through macro, I became aware of my interest for textures and shades.

}

More from Vladimir: https://www.flickr.com/photos/98505608@N00/

Photography

S.L.A.M.: Can you tell us how you got started?

Vladimir: I recall that year, it was 1994, and I was nearly 18 years old. We were on a trip to explore Mt. Durmitor (Montenegro), and it was an excellent opportunity for me to turn photography into something more than just a hobby. Later, much later, I realized artistic potential and some basic rules.

S.L.A.M.: You are the Head of the Department of Social Sciences in the Petnica Science Center. As an archaeologist, how do you see photography now?

Vladimir: We educate young people in many fields. As for photography, I organized a special School of applied photography, and it was a rewarding experience for students and for me as well. Our main goal was to teach students that the purpose of photography is more than documentation. It is our wish to use that photo in many ways, so it should have artistic qualities as well.

Browsing through hundreds of Vladimir’s photos, we can see his obsession with various forms and stages of scientific experiment, derived from his business environment. We must emphasize that he was very young when he started combining archaeology and

photography. In an attempt to portray the excitement of discovery, the author is able to note all stages of an enthusiastic scientist – focus, dilemma, persistency, cooperation, tiredness, endurance, Eureka effect, and joyfulness. However, his interest also goes out to jazz concerts, shades in water, mountain slopes, monuments…

“I found a new, creative microcosm using macro, and these specific photos are still so fascinating to me. Through macro, I became aware of my interest for textures and shades”.

We can only say that the author constantly develops his aesthetic sensibility, resulting in works whose visual quality is comparable to the finest works of abstract photography.

Vladimir holds his camera for more than 20 years now. He even had a small dark room for lab purpose, during analog era. His home town, Valjevo (Serbia), is 100 kilometers away from Belgrade. Locally, he is known both for archaeology and for his passion for photography. Recently, his family was blessed with a newborn son Vukan, possibly the one who will explore the era beyond digital photography. Of course, the small baby is the most interesting photo model for the time being. We wish them a healthy life and many more snapshots with good light.

by Miroslav Velimirovic

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 09

Photography

Recreate

Creation.

FLORIDA USA

“I take what The Universe gave us and I mold it, twist it, rip it apart and recreate it in my own special vision. That is my gift and anything less than sharing that with the world is an insult to The Universe itself.”

Christopher Ayres.

Christopher Ayres

When reading that you would assume that Christopher has always been an artist, but he had in fact, tried to pursue his art twice, picking up any job he could, “yet failing at every turn.”

His third attempt was inspired by the love of a woman named Michelle. Christopher recounts, “She told me, almost weekly, that I should pursue my art. Michelle had such faith in me.

One rotten day at the job, I finally decided it was enough.

The next thing I knew, I was home and immediately started making a plan. With a bit of persistence, and a whole lot of support, it started to pay off.”

After five years in the business, it’s only natural to ask, “Was it worth it?” I believe the following paragraphs will answer that question. And although he has reached certain milestones, his story is definitely not over. Christopher says, “I believe this is the year that it really reaches the mass amount of people that I’ve always dreamed it would.”

Christopher always had one end game, and he says it best: “I just want to live the remainder of my life doing my art, whatever that is, or evolves into at the time.” He states, “I want my art to touch people, to reach and move them.” He admits, “At first money and fame were a stronger drive … but that was because I was always told that was what would bring happiness.” Now, his goal is to make enough money to live comfortably. He also hopes to one day have his name mentioned along with some with his influences like Boris Vallejo and Alex Grey.

Things haven’t been exactly what he planned. He says, “I used to think how great it would be to just sit back and do my art 10 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

hristopher Ayre

all day every day. It’s a great life because I love it, but it is a lot more work and so much more involved than just doing the art.”

Along with an extremely full schedule, Christopher has also had challenges. “My work took a while to find its place, it isn’t true photography, and it’s not classic art ... so I would get lost between the two.” His other challenges are synonymous with being a good artist. He says, “Early on in my art career, I could never be satisfied with anything I did, reworking pieces over and over.” He also spoke of received criticism. “I have always gotten mixed reviews on my art; my subject matter is too dark, too risqué, too photo shopped to be a photograph, too bold, too much color, contrast - it’s always something.”

Christopher has a positive and transcendent way of thinking, and applies that to all of his challenges. He says, regarding never being satisfied, “Now, I complete my works and look back after a few months of artistic evolution and see where I can better myself, and I do.” And as far as criticism goes, he says, “The thing I came to realize … is that it is art.

How can it be wrong? Personally, I welcome any reaction. Love it or hate it, if you are reacting, I did my job. As long as I touch you, I am a success.” These philosophies speak for themselves because his resilience is paying off.

He says his work “is taking off on its own and starting to spread like wildfire.”

Even five years into the journey, Christopher’s inspirations and motivations are still very clear. He says, “Currently my biggest source of inspiration is my love Michelle. She is my muse, and sometimes my canvas. The thought of letting her faith in me down is my number one driving force.”

Christopher also finds that his imperfections fuel him. He says, “I don’t think I have ever been satisfied with anything I’ve created.

I’m always searching for perfection in my art [and] in myself. And truth be told, I

hope I never find it. I’m afraid that the day I do, it will be the day I stop creating.”

Christopher is well on his way to fulfilling his end game, but more importantly through his experiences he has learned something extremely important: to love the journey. He can see himself clearly in the third person and says: “I am thankful for every bump, every hardship I have faced leading up to this moment, because without all of those hardships, I would in no way be prepared for the path to greatness I have finally started walking. I can taste it, see it, just around the bend, and with all I have gone through I am walking, not running to it, so I can savor every drop of the amazing things that are to come.”

The artist expects 2015 “to be a busy, productive and prosperous year.” He will be releasing two new clothing lines. “The first is my Recreating Creation™ Brand T-Shirts … the second is the HOOP LOVE™ Brand which will consist of shirts, yoga pants, jewelry, and many other items as the year goes on.” There are also more custom Masquerade Masks in the works.

Christopher’s success is not magic. It didn’t happen overnight because of a tweet gone viral. His success is the product of hard work. If Christopher’s story has yet to persuade you to stop everything and pursue your dreams, he says to fellow artists, “Believe in your gift, it is a blessing and a privilege, and for that alone we should be grateful every day.”

by Samantha Wilson

Culture

Milan After my first year of college, I finally saved up enough money to travel abroad for the first time ever. I decided to take a 5-week Euro-trip, itching to experience European culture for the first time.

As I sought council for my journey about hidden gems and the places to skip, a common thread of advice emerged from other travelers: don’t bother visiting Milan.

Despite the fact that Milan is one of the most populated cities in Europe, right up there with London, Paris, and Rome, American travelers tend to think that the industrial and commercial center of Italy isn’t worth the trip. To be sure, Milan’s charm isn’t immediately obvious to the untrained eye: you won’t find quite as many colorful houses as in Burano or Cinque Terre or see the picturesque hills as in the Tuscan countryside. In fact, at first Milan seems to be like an American city, with tall steel buildings and busy people speaking languages from all over the world.

However, after moving here several months ago, I have discovered that there is a thriving playground for lovers of architecture, art, and de-

ITALY

Europe’s Most Underrated City sign under Milan’s gray surface. In addition, because of the upcoming 2015 Universal Exposition (Expo) and the legendary Fashion and Design Weeks, Milan is stepping up as one of the most exciting places in the world to visit this year.

da Vinci’s The Last Supper and The Musician; additionally, the classic museum Pinacoteca di Brera has one of the most impressive collections in Italy with masterpieces from artists including Mantegna and Caravaggio.

Historical

Modern

If you’re interested in European history from antiquity onward, Milan can suit your needs. As the former capital of the Western Roman Empire and a center of commerce in the Middle Ages, structures are still standing from as early as the 4th century. This historical architecture is juxtaposed with the young and progressive elements of Milan.

You’ll notice this inspiring contrast of young and old at landmarks like the Roman Colonne di San Lorenzo in a piazza constantly buzzing with 20-somethings on the weekends, the Castello Sforzesco in the middle of a busy shopping street, and Duomo, one of Europe’s biggest and most important Gothic cathedrals that is the center of life in the city.

Milan is also an essential stopping point for travelers who want to marvel at historical works of art in person. Famously, Milan is home to

Despite Milan’s rich history, this city doesn’t like to live in the past.

It’s no accident that Milan is known as the center of the fashion world: the Milanese have a deep appreciation for cutting-edge trends in art and design.

In fact, Milan was the heart of the futurist movement in the 20th century, making it one of the best cities to visit for modern and contemporary art enthusiasts. Lovers of modern art gather at HangarBicocca, a contemporary art and exhibition space just outside the city center. Admission is free and the space is open late, drawing a truly unique crowd. More works of renowned modern art can be found right in the city center at the Galleria d’Arte Moderna and the Museo del Novecento (housing art only

from the 20th century).

So what?

Milan has always been an epicenter for European art, and 2015 in particular is the time to visit. Right now, the city is in the process of being transformed to step up on the world’s stage for Expo, hosted

by Milan from May 1 until October 31 with the theme “Feeding the planet, energy for life”. By the time Expo begins, all the construction and restoration projects will be finished and the streets will shine like they’re brand new. The city is already abuzz with excitement for this opportunity to welcome international visitors and demonstrate what Milan has to offer.

Milan is a city full of opportunity for lovers of art and excitement, whether you’re exploring the various museums and galleries, window-shopping and people watching in world-famous shopping districts, or attending the first Universal Exposition since 2012.

If you find yourself in Europe this year, be sure not to miss out on this underrated gem of a city.

by Molly Hemingway

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 15

Washington

Music

Aradia Seattle based electronic artist, Aradia, is set to release her first solo album this year. The eclectic electronic-pop artist originally from Queens, New York, with her first LP, tries to introduce listeners to her unique brand of breezy beautiful music for the soul. The album, Citizens of Earth, melds Aradia’s nimble voice over inspired synth landscapes to make the album a memorable journey.

The title of the album, Citizens of Earth, holds special meaning for Aradia because, first and foremost, she considers herself a unique citizen of this planet. As Aradia states on her blog, “it doesn’t matter where I was, where I grew up, or where I live now, as much as it matters that I live on and I’m a part of this planet.” This indomitable spirit and sense of oneness with the world bleeds through on all the tracks of the album making it almost a spiritual journey: that journey just so happens to have a killer soundtrack.

USA

Seattle based electronic artist, Aradia, is set to release her first solo album this year.

Music surrounded Aradia’s since childhood. She got her love of melody from her parents; one of her parents was a musician and the other a ballet dancer. Aradia began to play the piano at age three and could play the guitar by the time she turned 14. To say Aradia had a penchant for stringing together along harmonies would be an understatement.

On the journey to becoming a solo artist, Aradia had many steps to take first. She initially cut her teeth in the music business playing in a rock and roll band out of New York called Some Band. Later, Aradia played in the band, Twelfth Night, in Atlanta were she achieved considerable success, having the chance to open for Muse and play the Chicago Auto Show. The experience she gained with these bands was invaluable in fashioning her musical taste and commanding stage presence. Aradia would also meet her musical mentor and collaborator, Wirth Lawson, during these formative years, whose influence and talent for

production would help her form the sound that her ambitious solo album revels in.

Citizens of Earth is a culmination of a lifetime worth of experience for Aradia, and the songs on the album reflect her knack for positivity and beauty in the face of life’s challenges. Aradia does a fine job of taking synth and pop elements to give her music a light and uplifting feel. The sound of the album is very reminiscent of 80s synth bands such as New Order or Laid Back except with a 21st century edge. Aradia conjures memories of Madonna in her heyday with many of her songs, but still manages to bring listeners back to the modern era with her edgy lyrics and sound similar to Lady Gaga, or even better yet Bjork’s space infused soundscapes.

The production on the album, done mostly by Aradia, is superb and leans more towards the realm of electronic artist like Goldfrapp. The ethereal sounds of songs such as “M-Class,” and “Dream,” takes you on a trip into otherworldly harmonies with Aradia’s rich voice always present to navigate listeners along the ride. Songs, “The Light,” and “Today,” are more grounded in pop with a bit of a synth flavor thrown in giving the songs a mature but fun sound. On the beautifully arranged song, “So Long,” Aradia showcases her airy and brilliant voice over minimalist beats letting listeners in on the secret that is Aradia.

That secret: lyrics from the heart, stellar production, and ears for unique sonic arrangements that will surely have Aradia’s audience coming back for more.

Aradia’s live performances are a treat as well, as the artist strives to keep audiences engaged with dramatic concerts.

“I’ve seen a lot of bands play and sometimes it’s really compelling, but I’ve always wanted to draw people in the way theatre performers do,” Aradia said about her lively stage act.

She went on to say, “Like, when the soprano sings an aria in an opera, or there’s a solo in a Broadway show – I want the audience to be drawn in and spellbound, to feel as though they’re experiencing the music with me, rather than just standing there watching.” The music industry has already begun to take notice of Aradia’s talent. She won second place in the Annual Seattle Wave Radio Jammin’ Challenge, the first electronic artist to do so. In 2014, Music Connection Magazine recognized Aradia as one of the “Hot 100 Live Unsigned Bands,” as well. Aradia’s stock is on the rise. With her new album, she might finally get her big break.

Citizens of Earth is available on iTunes, Spotify, and Amazon now. Aradia plays venues in and around the Seattle area, and her next performance will be at The Williams Ave Pub, Renton, WA, on May 16. You can check out Aradia’s first single, “Today,” at her official website: www.aradiamusic.com/sounds.

by Tavon Perkins S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 17

Colorado

Visual ARTS

USA

Julia Watkins: Art with a Purpose, a Spiritual Purpose.

Energy artist Julia Watkins is no stranger to the fact that life is challenging. That’s why she decided to pursue art with a purpose, a spiritual purpose. Looking at her art for the first time, one will undoubtedly notice her color choices. Her choice of warm and cold color-patterns, flush out tranquil imagery and provide a direct link towards self-realization. Even more, the images Julia creates are always dug from within her, channeling a greater energy of joy and happiness in the spiritual form. She refers to this practice as “Energism” or Energy Art. Her images range from spirit animals, yogic poses, mythical beings and natural landscapes,just to name a few. One thing they all have in common is the place they come from, a higher power.

“I need to stay connected to my higher power,” Julia confirms when speaking of her creative process. Living in the Colorado Rockies might be the ticket. Known around-the-world for rugged mountains and wild winters, Julia has called Vail Valley, Colorado her home for sometime. Originally, she arrived in the early 90’s, but left due to a dissolved marriage and broken heart. “I just couldn’t paint” Julia remembers of that time. To her “art is about beauty” and that honest connection had been lost. Julia took time to heal and later regained her creative initiative. Soon after, she met her second husband, Spencer. Together they traveled throughout the continental United States showcasing Julia’s work at art festivals. “We were poor,” recalls Julia. Even so, they managed to spend summers in Chicago and winters in Florida, see the northeast, Arizona and Texas, before returning to the Colorado Rockies years later.

Unfortunately, last August Julia’s life took a devastating turn when her husband was attacked and stabbed outside their residential home. He survived, but the incident was both financially and psychologically damaging to their lives. “My work stopped,” Julia remembers it took two months after the incident to begin painting again. “I had to really push through it, to find the happy place inside of me,” a skill she has come to learn in life’s most challenging hours. After such a violent episode, Julia gathered her strength and pushed forward. If not for her positive outlook on life, she needed to be a resource of 18 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

strength for her husband. Julia admits, “If I wasn’t a professional, I probably just would have quit.” Although, being a professional meant quitting was not an option. For this reason, Julia pursued her creative outlets, embedding a calm positive state that turned therapeutic during hardships and finally bestowed some of her best artwork.

Julia on Techniques Julia is an intuitive artist. Before beginning a new piece she meditates, a practice that enables steadfast relaxation and connects her to a higher being. In practicing meditation, she visualizes spiritually uplifting images of transcendence, joy and happiness.

This is how her choice in subject is presented. Julia believes she is “being guided by something bigger.” She intuitively listens and visualizes “what needs to come out at that time.” Once an image has been presented to her, she can begin her piece. In connecting with higher energy, Julia connects with her pieces, sending a nurturing force into the image. “It’s kind of like a talisman,” by putting energy into the piece, Julia explains, “it radiates back to those who are viewing it or live with it.”

In drawing both viewer and image together through energy, Julia uses a number of techniques. She asserts her choice in colors play an essential role in expressing both beauty and joy.

Julia deems her choice of colors uplifting. Looking at Julia’s art it’s easy to assess what she means. An excellent example, Leaning Lovers entwines a man and women, leaning, pressed face to face. Their nude flesh is surrounded by warm undulating tones, across a full spectrum of color, matching that of a rainbow. Her choice in colors resonate wonder, a phenomenon associated with love. In addition, she uses her swirl technique, adding a visual tone to the notion that everyone is connected. “I’m trying to show that the flow of energy never stops,” says Julia of her swirl technique, “and it goes through all of us” in reference to both objects and living beings.

Similarly, Julia uses dots to represent energy, a style demonstrated in her print Hip Hop – The energy of dance. The print pays tribute to iconic hip-hop artist, Michael Jackson. One can easily pick this up by the figures dance moves and clothing, even though a hat shrouds his face. Energetic tones undulate beneath his feet and spin into overhead electric lighting. In this way, Julia manages to draw deeper into the energy of dance with her unique style. Furthermore, its no surprise music plays an instrumental role in Julia’s process of creation. She listens to calming spiritual music, which in turn keeps her mind centered on the intention of her piece. Together, these techniques work in unison, expelling Julia’s unique form of energy art —a visual compass for anyone in search of greater good.

by Megan Meadows

For more information on Julia Watkins art, visit her website www.energyartistjulia.com 22 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

Tuatha Dea

Tennessee

Music

USA

The Irish Fae Live On, as a Tribal Gypsy Rock Band in the Appalachian Mountains There is an ancient legend buried deep in Irish mythology of the Tuatha de Danann, a race of magical people that invaded and conquered Ireland in the pre-Christian era.

“They ruled a while and then were ran ‘underground’ by a larger invading force,” Rebecca Hubbard says, lead female vocalist for Tuatha Dea, a tribal gypsy rock band based in the Appalachian Mountains. They celebrate their Celtic heritage and world heritage by playing indigenous rhythms, Native flute, electric guitar and modern-day instruments.

Hubbard continues by introducing the Fae and what happened to them in the past: “That’s the beginning of the Faery or Fae legends,” Hubbard says, “Personally, I believe that they were a real people, special and different, and that over time, they were deified and worshipped. Later, they were downgraded to demi-gods and magical creatures.”

The unusual twist in this tale is that although this lineage of Irish mythological lore derives from ancient times, a hint of Fae magic might still exist in the Appalachian Mountains of Eastern Tennessee - living in a group of musicians today.

This group of talented musicians are known as Tuatha Dea, named after the Tuatha de Danann. Or, “tribe of the gods.” And in other terms, the Fae. “To us, the Fae are the the Tuatha de Danann, or at least their continuing bloodline,” Hubbard says, “Music is an innate aspect of their charm, nature and magic. Lots of us (Celts) settled here in the Smokies.”

Hubbard then makes a joke about the band.

“We are the Fae,” Hubbard says, “Shhhh, it’s a secret.”

Despite their Irish roots, they’ve naturally grown into the tribal gypsy rock band they are today.

“It always had an earth vibe thing, naturally, because of the djembes and other percussion,” Danny Mullikin, lead male vocalist says, “Chris’s Native American flute added another layer. Then, he wanted to try the didgeridoo. We said, ‘why not,’ and it worked. When Tesea wanted to bring in the bass guitar, things evolved some more. Then keyboard, penny whistle, mandolin, all sorts of electric and acoustic amplification. And recently, we’ve added a kit drummer to the mix. We’ve simply never said no, so far.”

As a family, clan and band, they make a living by touring all over the United States “We have been all the way up to Canada and as far south as Florida and Texas,” Hubbard says. “We have been as far west as Kansas, and will be touring in Iowa and Minneapolis this month.” From there, the band will be traveling to Indiana, Minnesota, Chicago, Iowa and down to South Carolina. Coming up in April, they will be heading through Tennessee, North Carolina and down into Louisiana. Then in May, they will be playing in Upper Georgia, travel into middle Tennessee, down into Louisiana once more, then Texas.

WISP OF A THING Wisp of a Thing is an unforgettable music video showcasing Tuatha Dea’s exotic range, while telling a story of personal transformation. This song starts with tribal rhythms, didgeridoo and melodic vocals by Hubbard, tucked away in a wilderness setting.

Hubbard later emerges on stage with the entire band as the music plunges into hard rock.

THE BAND

“Wisp is a purposeful amalgamation that has three distinct movements,” Mullikin says, “It’s three separate pieces of music that flow together to simulate a story line.”

Tuatha Dea’s own Celtic legend started in 2010. They were all born in the United States, besides the newest member, who is from Italy. Many of the members actually grew up in Tennessee or North Carolina, but had been drawn to their Celtic heritage.

Simultaneously, this song also collaborates with the Irish tales written by Alex Bledsoe, an American urban fantasy author who expressed interest in their band a few years ago.

24 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

BASED ON ALEX BLEDSOE’S NOVELS “Like ‘Hum and the Shiver’, and ‘Long Black Curl’, ‘Wisp of a Thing’ from The Tufa Tales CD (an album scheduled to be released in May 2015) is based on a series of books by Alex Bledsoe,” Mullikin says, “He’s created a modern day Appalachian setting for the mythological Irish Fae to inhabit, and we wanted to capture the essence of the book.”

Bledsoe approached Tuatha Dea at a festival in 2013. In his stories, the mythological Tuatha de Danann or Irish Fae had transplanted to the New World (America) long before it was settled, and had been living in the Eastern Tennessee Mountains all along.

We really try not to separate ourselves from our audience when we play, and love the fact that our shows feel more like an exchange than a performance.”

Tuatha Dea could be the Fae of today. But as Hubbard puts it, it really all comes down to unity, acceptance and family, since they all started as a tribe in the beginning.

“Immediate family and the larger tribe we’re all part of,” Hubbard says, “That’s where it started, and it’s what we hope it will always be.”

by Stephanie Flood

“The irony is that we didn’t know him and he didn’t know us, but he started publishing the stories in 2010,” Mullikin says, “We formed in 2010, obviously play music, live in the East Tennessee mountains, and call ourselves Tuatha Dea.”

UNITY, ACCEPTANCE AND FAMILY Tuatha Dea reimagines the spirit of Celtic mythology and tribal values with their music.

Like many hybrid, mysterious works, the music is hard to define in words. Fortunately, Tuatha Dea doesn’t need to as their music speaks for itself.

“Music and more specifically rhythm is universal, and a catalyst for real communication and cooperation,” Hubbard says, “After all, we’re all just a big conglomeration of heartbeats.

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 25

Business Tips

The Art of Artistic Business

9

Steps for Keeping Your Artistic Career on Track.

There is stereotypical association between artists and a haphazard and disorganized existence. While there is something to be said for the unexpected inspirations that might arise from occasional lapses of focus, there is nothing romantic about missing a critical deadline, misplacing an important business card, or losing track of a correspondence - and thereby a job.

The following are helpful hints for keeping the business side of your artistic career on track.

1. Accept that You Are a Business Recognizing that you are a business is an absolute. Doing so increases the likelihood of conducting yourself as such. A successful business is organized. It’s conducted from some kind of physical space and has the tools, supplies and marketing necessary to succeed.

2. Have Some Professional Business Attire There will probably be some that might argue on this point: “But you’re an artist - you need to be able to express yourself man!”

While I am very keen on personal expression, I also like getting jobs. Sometimes this means wearing grown-up clothes. Know your audience, know who is hiring you and act accordingly.

3. Have a Media Package If you’re not one of the few lucky artists making a stable living at a single stable job, you are probably in a constant cycle of submission and job-hunting. This means being ready to promote yourself at the drop of a hat. Make sure that your media package is up to date and easily accessible. I recommend keeping a folder on your computer specifically dedicated to resumes and essentials. Having a professional looking website and business card is invaluable and makes sharing your art and contact information easy.

Bonus: It makes you look suave and important.

4. Create Your Creative Space Now that we’ve established that you are a business – let’s set up your office! It’s important to have a place that suits your specific needs. It’s also important that that space is conducive to your particular work habits and preferences.

Do you need complete silence to get anything done?

Do you need a specific space or surface to make your art?

Does working from your home inspire more trips to the refrigerator than it does Pulitzers?

I think you catch my drift…

5. Invest in Organization Having a place for your tools, supplies and other goodies is priceless. Having a specific home for things means reducing the likelihood of a house-upturning scavenger hunt for that thing you need.

Have a place for your appointments - calendars are the Mecca of organization. As an artist you are juggling a myriad of tasks, deadlines, shows, rehearsals, performances, gallery openings, schmoozing sessions, get-togethers and –oh- that pesky day job!

Really – there is no excuse not to have your calendar up to date.

Give yourself a leg up and make this a daily habit.

6. Keep a Stock Whether it’s paper, pencils, pens, ink for your printer, highlighters, post it notes, coffee, watercolors, headshots or business cards, it’s really important to have the supplies to keep your business up and running! It sucks to be in the middle of a project and not have the physical supplies to get the job done. Suddenly your day of work and boundless creativity turns into a day of shopping and standing in line behind old ladies buying floral arrangements and reams of scrapbook paper.

7. Find a Routine (And Allow Yourself to Break It) Consistency isn’t exactly the best for artistry or creativity, but consistently working on your art is! Whatever your particular philosophies on artistic work habits, there is absolutely no denying that the only way to make art is to make art. I don’t care who you are, if you aren’t practicing your art regularly, if not daily, you’re going to have trouble making your art and your artistic business succeed.

Whether you’re a night owl or a morning person, find the routines that work for you. That being said, maybe you don’t have the luxury to work in your preferred circumstances. Having daily habits is great and all, but the ability to work any and everywhere is essential. Whatever your preference, be sure to engage in your art as often as you can.

8. Be a Smart Smartphone User Now, this one might seem like a no-brainer, but while it can be tempting (and mentally/personally healthy) to unplug now and then, it’s important to be sure that you always have your tools ready to go in a moment of need! There is nothing like getting a time sensitive notification about a work opportunity and not being able to respond because you’re at two percent battery life. Your phone is a great tool – use it as such!

9. Know Your Goals While bearing everything else in mind, I would like to propose the notion that knowing what your particular goals are is a great tool.

Without a compass to guide you it’s easy to wind up completely lost! Even if your goals aren’t super clear or specific as of yet, having a clue as to where you might like to head (and having it written down somewhere) helps you navigate the differences between distractions and opportunities and helps you prioritize your time and efforts along the way.

It’s absurd to lose a job because of your own lack of foresight or organization. The most successful artists are not always, or did not always begin as the most talented artists in their market, but by working smart, staying organized and conducting themselves as a professional business they outlast and eventually outperform their peers, and ultimately find success. It’s fun to be the silly-artsty-fartsy-let’s-talk-about-our-feelings-person until the guy with the slick calendar, website and business cards outbids you.

Be that guy. Always be that guy.

by Monica Titus

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 27

Business Tips

3 Steps to Guaranteed Pay as a Writer.

by Brittany Gregory

Anyone practicing the art of writing knows how difficult to near impossible it is to make money working in this business. The purpose of this article is not to provide you with a get rich quick scheme, and it certainly will not provide you with a way to quit your day job. This piece is meant to provide you with a way to point at a small pile of bills (a really, small pile) and say, “I did this with my writing.” If it has always been your goal as a writer to say, “Yes, I made money by writing: I am a published author,” then keep reading because you will learn three steps to making money as a writer.

Step 1: Start a Blog

Probably the easiest step of all, and possibly one many writers have already taken; if you do not already have a blog, here are a few pointers to get you started: Pick a topic that is meaningful to you; make it personal enough that you can write at least three posts a week.

Read other blogs: those related and unrelated to your theme. You never know what might spur inspiration.

Comment on other peoples’ blogs: especially those using the same blogging platform as you, as it will link them back to yours.

Let people in your social network know about the blog so you can accumulate followers and readers.

Step 2: Create a Writing Portfolio

A writing portfolio is essential for anyone looking to get a job writing and it should include (much like with any job application) a cover letter, resume, and

minimum of three writing samples (this is the reason it is called a writing portfolio). Be sure to update the samples regularly, and if possible, try to have them relate to the topic the job is going to cover. As a writer or freelancer, using your blog work within your samples is highly recommended: also include links to popular posts. As you gain experience, samples can become links to sites of preexisting publications.

Step 3: Do a job search

Believe it or not, there are thousands of contract jobs from companies looking for talented writers to fill websites with text and interesting articles. Many are looking for a unique perspective as a means of promoting traffic to websites.

Where might a writer find these jobs?

Craigslist, Pro.Blogger, and Freelancewriting.com are just a few of the many free forum sites where anyone can locate such positions. Do be advised, very few positions are available in the realm of creative writing assignments. It is important not to become fixated on one genre. Understand that as a writer, you need to be able to write on a variety of topics. Having an extended list of ideas from which to pool can really end up helping your creative writing in the long run. An author who writes on topics that they would not normally venture into allows their mind to expand to include a broad variety of ideas.

A few suggestions for securing a contract position: Apply to as many jobs as you can find.

Be sure to include a personalized intro-

duction in each email.

Follow all directions outlined in the job posting (some will request silly things such as a weird phrase in the subject line just to make sure you read the entire listing). Following directions shows them you: A) Follow directions.

B) Are willing to take direction.

These three easy steps and, of course, a lot of perseverance in the continuous searching and emailing of potential clients or employers (either title works in this case) allowed me to make $300 in one month. From what I hear amongst my writing circles, this is not typical. A lot of hard work went into the making of that small sum, and not everyone will make that much doing what this article recommends. However, we writers do not get into this business expecting to make J.K. Rowling billions or Stephen King millions; we write to express ourselves and to voice our opinions. It is my hope that through this exercise, I and others who decide to test it out, will improve our creative writing skills, and if we’re lucky, make connections with the right people so that one day, we too can have a book on the shelves of Barnes and Noble.

by Brittany Gregory

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 29

Visual ARTS

VICTORIA

AUSTRALIA

Living the Dream

Joe Cartwright

Life twists and turns: We rarely ever end up exactly where we plan: Such is the case with watercolor artist Joe Cartwright, a 61-year-old native of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, who now resides in Sydney with his wife. More impressive than his majestic paintings is the fact he started creating art in his 40s. From his work, it’s difficult to believe he hasn’t spent his entire life painting. Humbly, Joe admits growing up admiring others’ artwork, but coming from a relatively poor family, he had to turn his focus on financial security instead of art.

He started out working 12-hour days as an electrical engineer in computer marketing and sales that left very little time for art.

Then enters the Universe and, like a trickster in myth, one moment changed the course of everything. In 1988, a fall from a ladder broke his ankle. The inability to drive left him homebound.

Wanting to pass time, Joe asked his wife for drawing supplies. A satisfying drawing session left him wanting more, but many life demands hindered his artistic cravings for another decade.

In 1998 at 50, he quit his high-paying job. For a year after, he doubted his decision. He endured social isolation and made less money painting. Joe admits going to the shopping center in hopes of meeting someone for an occasional cup of coffee.

However, once established, his doubt and social starvation disappeared. Now, he lives his dream, and often wakes up grateful about doing what he loves. He points to hard work behind his success.

With few resources for learning watercolor, Joe educated himself by reading over 150 books on the subject. His studies focused on technique, but later shifted to mood, atmosphere, and design.

Joe states: “I knew I had arrived as an artist when I started to be able to see finished paintings in my mind, even before I touched brush to paper. I feel very fortunate to have arrived at that state.” Today, he’s an award-winning painter and author with over 17 years experience. He penned, “Mastering Watercolors: A Practical Guide.”

He cites his best award as the $3,000 John Copes Watercolor Prize in Australia. It was the only competition where he was happy just for being accepted. He recalls walking with his wife when 30 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

he heard about his first prize win, and having to sit down on the roadside to absorb the news. He had a similar experience when he won a ribbon at the Royal Sydney Easter Show.

Joe has worked with pen, ink, oils, and pastels, but watercolors are his true love: “I love the way watercolors flow and how no two paintings can ever be the same. It is a medium, which at time seems to have a mind of its own … the skill is knowing when it has given you a bit of a gem. When I get to a critical part of my painting … my heart always speeds up a little. I love it … I try to show people something new and beautiful about things around them that they may not have taken the time to notice, like the reflections of a bridge rather than the bridge itself, or the early morning light on wet grass.”

Joe has had challenges. Entering the field of art later in life left him with limited contacts. Once he started winning awards and he had an article published in the Australian Artist Magazine in 2006, the connections began to follow naturally. Joe lacked mentoring, but confesses an admiration for watercolor master Joseph Zbukvic, and cites having a chance to attend three week-long workshops with the artist. At the time, Zbukvic took notice of Joe’s impressive work.

During a creative block, Joe turns his attentions to mundane things or painting without creative intent. “I think anything can lead to a work of art. I am attracted to light effects; hence, most of my land and seascapes are early morning

or late afternoon scenes. Though, I also love mist and rain.

If something captures my attention and causes me to say, “WOW, look at that,” then I know I have to paint it,” Joe said.

One of his favorite techniques is using the side of his round brush to create nice dry-brush effects giving the impression of the edges on clouds or the foliage of trees. His brush is hardly touching the paper with only a few of the hairs sticking to the paper surface, through surface tension, leaving texture behind.

Joe believes an artist has to be prepared to fail and one is vulnerable when revealing art to the world. He loves everything about being creative, but dislikes the excessive competitiveness of the field, which distracts from the beauty of creativity.

He also believes artists are professionals deserving of a real living wage. Joe’s advice for a budding artist is, “Paint often, and enjoy the journey. Even 15 minutes of painting a day will move your work along better than just attending a weekly class.”

Joe plans to continue painting. The next book will likely cover creating textures with watercolor. Still, Joe asserts it will be another year before he starts another book. True to his deeply ingrained nature, right now, all he wants to do is paint.

Readers can discover more about Joe Cartwright at his websites: www.painting withwatercolors.com, www.penandinktechniques.com, www.joecartwright.com.au, and www. facebook.com/joecartwrightartist.

by Dayna Winters S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 31

Culture

VIETNAM

Hanoi Ca Trù Club

The Last Survivor of a Dying Art It should be no surprise that Vietnam is fiercely proud of their unique culture after winning independence from China, France, and the United States after thousands of years of fighting. It is evident in museums and monuments across the country that the Vietnamese want to preserve their traditions and share them with the world. However, in the nation’s capital, one of the most ancient Vietnamese art forms is struggling to stay afloat.

Every visitor in Hanoi inevitably walks through the city’s Old Quarter, whether to shop at the lively night market, walk by the Hoàn Kiem Lake, or visit pubs and restaurants serving some of the world’s cheapest beer. But without some research (or luck), the average tourist will walk right by the Hanoi Ca Trù Club without a second look.

This locale is on a side street next to the night market, in a tiny old temple with historical carvings and paintings. It’s the home of Ca Trù performances, a type of very distinctive folk music with roots in Northern Vietnam.

Structure

Ca Trù, as described by the main performer at the club, is a very specialized genre. The singer was trained in opera before specializing in Ca Trù, a type of singing with advanced breathing techniques and vocal vibrato. Her translator explains, “When you sing opera, you project your voice . . . in Ca Trù, you keep it inside your throat.” The result is a very unique sound, a strong vocalization that quivers in a controlled way.

Traditionally, the performance includes three musicians: a female who simultaneously sings and plays a small bamboo percussion instrument, a male lute player, and a drummer (sometimes a member of the audience) who beats a drum in a pattern that indicates whether he approves or disapproves of the song.

Sometimes, the music is accompanied by traditional dancing from two young girls training in the art of Ca Trù; the dancing is very slow with careful coordination between the dancers.

The Hanoi Ca Trù Club makes this type of music accessible to western travelers by involving them in the show. A translator explains the context and storyline for the songs in both Vietnamese and English, and there is a short tea break where spectators can ask performers questions and even try the instruments.

Although it’s not plausible to understand the meaning of the lyrics without a strong knowledge of Vietnamese, a main feature of the 34 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

Ca Trù, as described by the main performer at the club, is a very specialized genre. The singer was trained in opera before specializing in Ca Trù, a type of singing with advanced breathing techniques and vocal vibrato.

music is its emotion: most of the songs are very mournful, so it is easy to imagine the sort of sentiments that are expressed.

History

There is a very heavy emphasis on tradition and antiquity in this art form: there are only 56 traditional songs that can be truly labeled Ca Trù. Most of the songs are poems about history and myths in Vietnam. Although people have already written contemporary songs, the community views them only as inferior imitations. Performers make strict attemps to maintain the ancient structure, using the original instruments and costumes.

Ca Trù Music started as private entertainment for the Ly Dynasty royal court during the period 1009-1225, and for several centuries, it remained an art exclusively for royalty. But by the 15th century, Ca Trù began to be performed also for other educated members of the elite.

This type of traditional music began to die out during the French occupation of Vietnam as the institution became corrupt and gained a reputation for abusing women. The art form was nearly wiped out, until the late 1970s when there was a movement to restore Ca Trù.

Even now in its revival, it’s obvious that Ca Trù is a type of music only performed for the elite. Relative to other activities and goods, the performance is very expensive and out of reach for local Vietnamese people (about 210,000 Vietnamese Dong, or $10). The shows are usually small, with between ten and twenty spectators per night.

Keeping Ca Trù Alive

In the last years, the Vietnamese have taken great strides to preserve this traditional music. In 2009, UNESCO recognized Ca Trù as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, and by 2011, the number of Ca Trù clubs in Vietnam increased from 23 to 140.

The Hanoi Ca Trù Club is gaining recognition as one of the most interesting things to do in the city; a combination of the distinctive music and the interactive structure of the performance create a truly immersive cultural experience different from other attractions in Vietnam. Hopefully, this rare art form continues to become invigorated in the coming years so that the ancient traditions of Vietnam will be remembered in generations to come.

by Molly Hemingway

Visual ARTS

Florida / Texas

USA

The Beautiful Creatures Tarot Fantasy at its Finest!

It was like Yule in late February (Christmas for the non-pagan folk) when the Beautiful Creatures Tarot deck arrived!

A collaborative effort of author/tarot reader J. R. Rivera and artist Jasmine Becket-Griffith, my first impression was, Goddess! That’s too beautiful to open. Not surprising at all, as Schiffer Publishing is famed for their impressive oracle/tarot box sets.

The book cover and box exterior store an 80-card deck and a 160page instructive guide. Both feature the same charming image, “Darling Dragonling IV,” depicting one of the illustrator’s somber-faced “liquid-eyed maidens,” cradling a baby dragon. Such imagery merely hints at the surreal eye candy in the deck. The box lid features a lavender tab and two matching lavender ribbons that keep the book lid at a near 45-degree angle when open, offering a luxurious touch.

The author, J.R. Rivera, is a Tarot reader and collector of more than 300 decks to date. Jasmine Becket-Griffith, the artist, is a fulltime professional painter and founder of Strangeling.com. She has licensed merchandise with Disney, Ashton-Drake, Hamilton, and the Bradford Exchange. In utilizing the mediums of acrylic and wood, she creates whimsical yet slightly haunting images that are fanciful and out of this world.

The Beautiful Creatures Tarot is loosely like the classic Rider-Waite, and it is the deviations from the deck I appreciate. The suits in Beautiful Creatures Tarot appeal to my pagan heart with element suits such as Airs, Fires, Waters, and Earths in place of Cups, Wands, 38 / S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ]

Swords, and Pentacle suits. Another variance from the classic Rider-Waite, replaces the court cards with 12 zodiac cards, and the Aces are nymphs. I favor the predominantly feminine imagery with cards like the Emperor, Hermit, and The Mage (Magician) depicted in feminine roles. Furthermore, if you are one who has ever been irritated with tarot reader depictions in the media, you will appreciate the re-titling of The Death card as “The Transformation,” and The Devil card as “The Addiction.” Such creep-factor-eliminating titles reveal the true essence of the cards’ meanings.

Becket-Griffith’s love of art history is apparent in her art, For example, the twelfth card’s image is the artist’s rendition of Jean-Honoré Fragonard’s 1767 oil painting “The Swing.” Aptly titled, “The Swinging One,” the card parallels The Hanged Man in the Rider-Waite. Alice from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland,” swings back and forth on a tree swing wearing her iconic blue and white dress with pink ruffles alluding to the dress seen in Fragonard’s piece. Alice also appears in the “2 of Waters”: the imagery is a play on Jan Van Eyck’s 1434 portrait of Giovanni di Nicolao Arnolfini and his wife. Here, the artist’s rendition depicts the male character wearing a long cloak with a

plague mask covering his face; thus, the inclusion of dark and light imagery is flawlessly balanced and it expresses both the darker and lighter elements of human existence.

Becket-Griffith’s has had a long-held interest in Tarot. In her childhood, she bought a Rider-Waite deck. In high school, she created an “amateurish, but fun” deck, and in college, she made an interactive tarot game while in a computer-programming course. As an adult, she became a fulltime professional artist and created several oracle decks. Meanwhile, requests came in from readers, fans, and collectors for her own tarot deck. When J.R. Rivera contacted her, she was thrilled to participate in the project.

The majority of the art comes from Becket-Griffith’s existing and extensive line of work. Since the 90s, the artist has completed several paintings every week. This gave her thousands of pieces to use. She explains, “So many of my paintings have symbolic elements and meaningful imagery, and several were inspired by the Tarot archetypes of the past, that it was relatively simple to “retro-fit” many of the cards.”

J.R. Rivera is the mastermind behind pairing the art with perfect positions in the deck. His incredible accuracy stems from 15 years of experience and an intimate knowledge of tarot archetypes.

Remarkably, the collaborative effort never involved an in-person meeting between author and artist; the project was done through email, and it took three years from conception to release. J.R.’s favorite part of the project was the chance to bring life to each image: “The characters [have] a voice of their own and each a background story. I wanted for them to connect with the readers … many publications out there have become too redundant. I wanted to make mine fun to learn.”

Beautiful Creatures Tarot is a worthy investment for serious tarot readers, collectors, or art lovers. The package almost remained unopened because of its exquisite design, but I must say I am glad I opened it. I uncovered a treasure trove of extraordinary art and a deck I will surely cherish for a lifetime. I must gently warn you that it may be difficult for some of you to use these cards for divination, and may simply be better to frame them as works of art!

by Dayna Winters

More information is available at: J.R. Rivera: www.jrrivera.weebly.com.t Jasmine Becket-Griffith: www.strangeling.com

S.L.A.M Issue IX [ artsslammag.com ] 39

Old as the girl I’m feeling.

Not old enough

178 Cm

The sky proved to be no limit

80kgs

Weighing on every single aspect of your current existence

87 Cm

Way too Fkn far

Lest get ready to Rumble…in homage to the biggest sporting event in living memory, Disgruntled Dave brings you the tale of the tape...its David Vs Goliath, good versus evil, procrastination vs creation, it’s the fight of the millennium people and we all have a ring side seat. Whether we like it or not, this really is a fight for our intellectual freedom, a fight to be human, the fight to remain a truly social society not governed by false promises of superstardom on the Instagramtwittashpere. I wonder if Andy Warhol’s 15 min of fame theory included FB? In the blue corner, the challenger to life itself, the succubus of brain matter, eraser of emotion, yes folks weighting in/on every mind in the free world is Social Media In the red corner, the defender of analog, promoter of cerebral expansion, protector of all humanos and man kind’s greatest hope for an unmolested age of digital freedom it’s the one and only Disgruntled Dave.

Against these odds, you could conclude that a confrontation is futile. Hopeless? Guess you guys never got a Rocky box set for Christmas did you? This is a fight you can’t afford to lose, so bite hard on your gum shield and start swinging because it’s on like King Kong slam dunking Donkey Kong. Fight to get those hours back you missed with real people, claw back the days fettered away trying to get likes on your selfie collection, strike out, get all Mike Tyson on your PC and I can assure you it will make you purr like a kitten, laugh like a hyena or at the very least shag like a dolphin!! This battle is for our very soul, it’s a war for our place in the new digitally infused universe, like the crème on a shit latte our individuality is in danger of becoming a luxury item a beautiful illusion enforced by our inescapable

love for the Instagramtwittashpere. I could give you stats and figures about trolling, teen suicide, drops in average intelligence over the last 10 years but I don’t need to as you can feel it, sense it, its tangible and its clinging to you like a piece of shit covered toilet paper.

It’s going to be a long drawn out conflict but the first step is to take action, realize that sitting on a train taking pictures of your packed lunch is not FKN normal, Gordon Ramsey doesn’t post pictures of his every culinary conquest so why the hell are you? I have news for you, the world will keep revolving if your 5000 “friends’ don’t know what you had for supper. Unless you’re a lovechild spawned from one of Nigella Lawson’s cocaine fuelled cocktail parties then please….CEASE!!

So, the fight back begins: Grope yourself like Michael Jackson and let out a high pitched squeal, consort with your inner menace, stop hiding behind your virtual defense and open up to the world, look in the mirror and smile at yourself, take a selfie with your mind not your iPad. Do something worthwhile that actually brings a little joy, prove you still can still act like a person not constrained by the worry that you’re not “5000 friend” material. Hands up, chin down…Boom Boom, Like Freddy Roach backing his boy Disgruntled Dave is loading the bombs, stocking the arsenal but it’s up to you to pull the trigger.

“I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion.” - Alexander the Great Disgruntled Dave over and out.

P.S. Good luck Manny.

FAn Tribute Kenny Karr / Florida

Jolaa Goode / California

Linda and Jordyn / Florida

Kevin Hunter / California

Bruce Dunn / Connecticut

Michael Daugherity / Oregon

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