Quirk Issue 2

issue two / volume one / kansas city / spring 2010

Òw hen youÕ re doing something you love, itÕ s out there and itÕ s honest...Ó -sarah anderson, page six

introducing:

unmasqued winner katie “everybody has an artistic side in them. everyone wants to express themselves.”

-mary o’brien, page ten

olson

contents 4 vip list 6 little dreams / sarah+michel anderson take on the world 12 come to my campus / mary o’brien / kc art institute 18 trading fair : small business advice

21 movin’ on up in the bottoms

24 other worldly / photo essay 28 homeopathy : an introduction to whole-body healing 30 playlist : home / recipe : black bean+mango+avocado salad 31 diy with emmy-ray 32 unmasqued : the making of a model

36

come fly with me

/

46

get involved, give back

photo essay feautring katie olson

44 twenty questions : gina ciacco-holmberg

48 style renovation : shelly hughes 53 scene on the street 55 places to go, people to see

vip list

welcome to quirk {the magazine} issue two! pull up a chair and make yourself comfortable. we’d like to introduce ourselves and show you some of the fun we’ve been having since issue one.

right: quirk founders kelley walker chance+ashlee matthews playing around with dinosaurs, (one of their favorite pastimes.) left: ashlee matthews, hair/ makeup guru katie snustead, kelley walker chance, friend of quirk stephanie, and organizer/idea girl/ cheerleader extraordinaire, ashley marsh.

a thousand thanks to the many other quirk contributers who managed to escape our cameras, including, but not limited to: writer katy ryan, writer kelli bamforth, writer/diy goddess emily jungden walters, music aficionado josh solar, designer sarah anderson, handyman moon roberts, and the many other amazing, creative, generous people we’ve crossed paths with.

below: wonderwoman writer/editor/scene stylist melissar robbins, gorgeous unmasqued winner & cover girl katie olson, kelley walker chance+ashlee matthews at the unmasqued after-party.

above: ashlee matthews, friends of quirk celeste & garnet, kelley walker chance, friend of quirk selena, and fashionista mama jessie artigue at the scarlett garnet april first friday show.

by kelli bamforth photography by kelley walker chance/kelley photo

little dreams

sarah+michel anderson take on the world.

“In art and dream may you proceed with abandon. In life may you proceed with balance and stealth.” – Patti Smith Sarah Anderson is by all accounts a dreamer, her world, all about art. Whether she’s producing art or enjoying art, it touches every part of her life – whether it’s her job as an illustrator for Hallmark, her all-girl band Softee, or newest venture, Petit Reve, she started with her daughter Michel.

“All creative people want to hear their own voice become louder and louder,” Anderson says. “I feel very lucky and really like what I’m doing.”

It’s in Kansas City where Anderson’s voice has grown and changed her into the artist she is today. As a transfer from the East Coast (she moved to Kansas City from Albany, NY in 2001 to work at Hallmark), Anderson is appreciative of the creative culture here, which may be a surprising notion to those Kansas Citians who long for a faster pace or assume the more well-known art scenes are in New York City or Los Angeles.

“Albany is pretty small,” she says. “You can feel small and conservative in a place like that. The creative culture in Kansas City is better; I’ve never been around so many creative people. Hallmark, especially, is like a bubble.

There’s no other place like it on earth – you’re surrounded by creative people all the time.”

Anderson describes her own artistic style as quirky, fun and childlike, with some offbeat color palettes and inspiration from sixties retro and mid-twentieth century illustration thrown in for good measure. Despite working in a corporate environment, Anderson finds a way to let her style shine in her work for Hallmark. Her employer and clients are supportive of her unique style, and Anderson often gets requested for projects.

“I get to do my own stuff for them,” she says. “I’ve made a good bed for myself there. It’s a baby dream job of sorts. I think if I were to become an old fart and still be working at Hallmark, I’d be fine, so long as I wasn’t curmudgeonly and stale. It’s been an amazing experience for me.”

Hallmark is also where Anderson met her future band mates – whom she refers to as her fellow Softees. The girls worked in cubicles next to each other and threw around

the idea of starting a band, although none had ever played in a band. The drummer had taken one lesson, and Anderson, who had never played bass, had to learn to sing and play at the same time, not an easy feat for someone who plays by ear.

But for someone who can’t read music, Anderson looks at home while on stage with Softee. The music, smooth indie pop, calls to mind a little bit of Weezer and a hint of The Indigo Girls, with a catchy melody you’d find on any Top 40 radio station. Softee has hit the stage at various venues around Kansas City, including The Riot Room, Record Bar and The Brick. Last fall, the band was nominated for best pop band and played in the Pitch Music Showcase.

The Pitch has this to say about Softee: “For all its sweetness, this scene’s favorite female rock band has substance. The ladies of Softee understand that girls just wanna have fun, and that doesn’t necessarily mean sexing it up.” The fact that the band is made up of all 30-something females only gives it more appeal.

“My dad was in a band, and I thought it was maybe in my blood,” Anderson says. “Sometimes you think you miss the boat, for whatever reason, with something you feel a yearning for, but that’s not the case. Softee is kind of a testament to that. The movie ‘Whip It’ kinda reminds me of Softee, because all the roller derby girls in that movie are all a little older. It’s a weird model to shape your life after. But it’s a balance – showing up at your office job, playing in a band, balancing kids. It’s unconventional but fun.”

Anderson and her band mates (Stephanie Allen, guitar; Flora Chang, keyboards; and Mimi Mangrum, drums) collaborate on new music and lyrics. Often, Anderson will be thinking of lyrics or a melody, and when other Softees pitch in to help with phrasing and lyrics, a song takes shape.

They aim for catchy tunes, the kind of music that gets stuck in your head, rather than going the traditional route all-girl bands playing rock n’ roll. “Like we’re gonna let a man tell us what kind of music to make,” Anderson quips.

However, the band’s been on hiatus recently following a holiday break. For Anderson specifically, it became tough to balance practice, shows, coming up with new material and promoting the band on radio shows with her full-time job. The break’s been nice, she says, but Anderson’s found yet another creative outlet, this time with a special goal in mind.

“I encourage her artistic side, but I’m leery because I don’t want to pressure her,” Anderson says. “You have to be careful because even though it’s something fun, I don’t want to make it un-fun for her because I do it for a living.

Who knows what Michel will do – she likes fashion and film editing, she’s taking a sewing class. Whatever it is, I know she’ll do something creative.”

Petit Reve – French for “little dream” – is Anderson’s store on Etsy, a Web site dedicated to buying and selling all things handmade. The idea for Petit Reve was born the day Anderson’s daughter, Michel, came home from school after attending a meeting about studying abroad.

The Andersons have two years to raise money for Michel’s trip abroad, but the money generated from Petit Reve will hopefully be paired with sponsorship money.

“I was impressed that she’d wanna do that in high school,” Anderson says. “Go to a foreign country by herself at this age, be curious about something like that…I was very proud of her.”

“I feel a little guilty sometimes that we’re raising money for her to take a trip while others raise money for a father with a tumor or another cause like that,” Anderson says. “But people will buy our stuff if they believe in the cause. She’s a good kid and I’m gonna do what I can to make her dreams come true.”

When she’s not working at Hallmark or pursuing ideas for Petit Reve, Anderson hangs out with friends or spends time with her boyfriend, Colin, a fellow artist with Trick Pony.

“We draw a lot together,” she says. “I’ve never dated anyone who was like me with the same kind of job. We’re always shooting ideas back and forth, and it’s nice to have that.”

The expense of foreign exchange programs can be high, but the gears started turning and Anderson had the idea of started an Etsy page. Michel doodles, too, so their store on the well-known Web site includes mostly original artwork for sale with a few handmade broaches and other pieces. The venture is time-consuming, but Petit Reve gives Michel a creative outlet that Anderson encourages – helping to land Michel’s work in two local stores (Hammer Press and Bon Bon Atelier) as well as a new store opening outside of Chicago in Andersonville, IL.

But whether Anderson’s typical day includes time in the Hallmark office (where she’s currently working on digital e-cards), doodling with her daughter and boyfriend, or running to the post office to ship a Petit Reve sale to Australia, chances are, it includes something creative – and something close to the heart.

“I’m lucky,” Anderson says. “When you’re doing something you love, it’s out there and it’s honest, people will either respond to it or not. There’s still a lot I want to do, but I don’t feel like I’m compromised. I still get excited about going to work or working on whatever project I have going at the time.

“This year has definitely been one of pursuing dreams.”

a sampling of petit reve’s adorably whimsical collection, available at bon bon atelier & hampress in kansas city. etsy : etsy.com/shop/petitreve

blog : unicornpoo.blogspot.com softee : myspace.com/softeerocks

come to my campus:

mary o’brien kansas city art institute by kelli bamforth photography by ashley marsh/kelley photo

Art is purely subjective. What one person sees when looking at a painting or sculpture might be completely different from what another sees when looking at the same piece. What’s hailed as a masterpiece by critics might look like a simple stick figure to the untrained eye – or vice versa.

Art is complicated. Artists can endeavor to define themselves and their work. They can attempt to explain theory. But to someone outside the somewhat small and elite “art world,” these insights can sometimes go over their head.

But, at the end of the day, art is for everyone – and everyone’s got a hidden artistic side. So says Mary O’ Brien, 21, a sophomore at what she calls a “hidden jewel” of the city: The Kansas City Art Institute.

ÒI know that to be a fact, that everybody has an artistic side in them,Ó OÕ Brien says. ÒEvery one wants to express themselves.Ó As a transfer student from the University of Central Missouri, where she attended school for two years as a painting major, OÕ Brien has nothing but praise for KCAI, a four-year college of art and design nestled in midtown Kansas City. ÒArt is so much deeper than I ever knew, and thereÕ s so much about it theoretically that was unknown to me, and I knew I would learn it at the Art Institute. The Art Institute has great professors and the painting department is amazing.Ó O’Brien grew up in Columbia, what she calls a “significantly smallerÓ than Kansas City and says that the culture and people have had a heavy influence. She explains how exciting it is to see how many people attend First Fridays in the Crossroads District Ð the turnout at those monthly events, and meeting other artists, demonstrates the importance of art in Kansas City. ÒC olumbia taught me to desire for more. It has a small arts scene,Ó OÕ Brien says. ÒI question more, and I love the Art Institute because everyone whoÕ s here, weÕ re in a constant mindset of contemplating theory. ItÕ s awesome to be around that. IÕ ve learned so much about art since IÕ ve left Columbia and UCM in terms of theory and concepts, and there are a lot of people in Kansas City who arenÕ t in school, but still make and are passionate about art.Ó ÒI realized (in 10th grade) that painting was something I wanted to spend the rest of my life doing, because it makes me happy,Ó OÕ Brien said. ÒI focus a lot on Òbeing,Ó and who we are as people; the journey we all work through. ThatÕ s what I paint about.Ó She draws inspiration for her work from her relationships with people and philosophy, specifically Martin Heidegger, a well-known 20th century German philosopher. HeideggerÕ s book ÒBeing and TimeÓ seeks to Òwo rk out the question of the sense of being.Ó OÕ BrienÕ s painting process begins with referencing a specific idea having to do with inner being or inner thought, something that relates to people everywhere. She then formulates a figure she thinks can represent that moment, and fragments the figure’s body into paint in order to express the idea. The work is universal and has a timeless effect.

O’Brien’s “artist’s statement” is this: A reflection of the state of

being and the expanse of time visualized through a direct and honest process.

A typical day at the Art Institute begins with OÕ BrienÕ s first class at 8 a.m. For the rest of the day, she works in her studio (KCAI provides studios for all painting majors) or does homework. She sometimes leaves campus for lunch or dinner, but only to help organize her thoughts or step away from her work for a break. She stays as late as the studios are open, typically 1 a.m.

OÕ Brien also works part-time at Forever 21, where sheÕ s further inspired by the use of shopping and clothes as a means of expression. This is just another example of the artistic side in everyone, she says. She also models to extend her circle of artists and to meet other creative individuals. ÒTh e beauty of women is something I canÕ t ever stopped being influenced by,” O’Brien says, “Whenever I see a woman modeling, I question whatÕ s going on in her mind.

ThatÕ s a huge curiosity for me, what everyoneÕ s thinking at any given moment. As an artist I always need models, so I

like to help out others when they need (models).Ó Being constantly surrounded by other artists is something that influences her work, so reading and researching other artists as well as conversing with classmates are other ways OÕ Brien spends her time. Music is another integral part of her day. ÒI listen to The Knife, Die Antwoord, Tegan and Sara, Crystal Castles, Florence and the Machine É it really depends on the mood I want to evoke for the art I am creating, because it will affect my work consciously or subconsciously,” O’Brien says.

Whether she’s learning to focus specific ideas into her work, contemplating theory, struggling to write an artistÕ s

statement or working to capture a moment in time, O’Brien says it’s a privilege to be a student at the Art Institute.

“Painting constitutes my life right now – the clichés about starving artists are true,” she says with a laugh.

“I’m starving all the time because I spend all my money on art supplies. But it doesn’t matter to me.

I’d rather make art and be starving than be full with lack of expression.”

O’Brien plans to stay in the Kansas City area to earn a master’s degree and, later, continue her involvement with the local arts scene.

“It’s obvious that art is important here,” she says.

“Making art may not be the cure-all to something, but it’s a way to better understand the questions we all have, and to see to beauty of life. Art is for everyone.”

kcai fun facts *The Kansas City Art Institute was created in 1885, when a group of Kansas Citians got together to start a Sketch Club “to talk over art matters in general and to judge pictures. *Walt Disney took Saturday classes there as a child. *Since its inception the school has moved multiple times, from its original location at 11th and Main streets to its current site at 4415 Warwick Blvd., where the campus has been located since 1927. *The Kansas City Art Institute offers the bachelor of fine arts degree in 13 areas of emphasis: animation, art history, ceramics, creative writing, digital filmmaking, digital media, fiber, graphic design, illustration, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture. *In the 1920s, the school’s budget was $40,000; today that figure tops $15 million. *In past years approximately 41 percent of KCAI graduates have pursued careers in artrelated businesses, 18 percent have gone on to teach at the high-school or college level and 26 percent have become studio artists.

So many ideas…so

little money. That has become an often-repeated phrase around my home office and design studio.My overcrowded bulletin board dedicated to brainstorming on product development, small business marketing methods, creative promotions, experiments with fabric, color, textures, and inspirational quotes, beckons me to take action and bring them to life. However, these “all dressed up with no place to go” projects and concepts usually require a little polish and shine by a professional graphic designer, photographer, web guru, accountant, or seamstress before they are brought to life, and that kind of specialized outsourcing takes cold hard cash.

I would have to turn in my official entrepreneur club badge if I were to claim that money is not the most persistent obstacle on the path of art as commerce. I can’t imagine an artist being frustrated by a lack of inspired ideas to match

Talented friends, coworkers, family members, and neighbors may harbor a wealth of skills necessary to your business and could possibly benefit from your expertise in one or more areas…you know, I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine.These days it’s not rare to hear that the guy fixing the a/c unit is married to the woman whose

trading fair : small business advice

by melissa robbins

wedding dress was sewn by the indebted daughter of the accountant who owns the house with the broken a/c unit. Yes, trading has become bona-fide currency. It’s an off-the-books way to get things done without capital. But trading doesn’t mean free of charge. If time is money, than the cost of trading certainly adds up, and quicker than you can imagine.

Before you venture into any trade agreement, make sure it’s going to truly benefit you in the end. Your elbow If it’s a friend/family member who needs and returns support grease has value as If it’s an organization with which I am interested in aligning my product or business well as the amount of experience and If it’s going to showcase my talent and perhaps create future business education you bring If I am confident that I can finish within the time and budget of the initial agreement to the table. What If I can trust explicitly that the trade will be returned in a timely, professional manner you spend time away If I feel that the experience will inspire and replenish my creative process from, whether it is another job, family, friends, etc., to focus on the return service If the other party will not agree to specific instructions and deadlines has to be considered If I am aware of dishonest or too casual business practices as well. Establish immediately, the If the return service requires more skills than I feel capable of specific timeline If I disagree with their business ethics and cash value of If I don’t feel excited to build a long-term relationship your efforts before either service is rendered. Trading may seem easier than coming up with cash, but when trading goes wrong, their bountiful bank account. It’s tough out there, and I think most of my fellow entrepreneurs would agree. Creativity is the ramifications can impact your business negatively required in aspects beyond the easels, sewing machines and for a long time. Make a commitment to treat trading as a editing tables. Finding affordable ways to fund production business philosophy that requires time management, and and marketing as well as networking and distribution has follow through. Remember to evaluate more than how become a necessity in order keep business afloat, and no much money you are saving; your business practices are a reflection of you, your art and your potential. method has become more popular than trading.

To Trade or Not to Trade I’ll do it…..

I will not accept trade…

nara ad

The tale of Kansas City’s West Bottoms district is other areas to the West Bottoms. Todd Schulte, owner of a true Cinderella story. Once a thriving, bustling center of Columbus Park-based Happy Gillis Cafe and Hangout, commerce that first served as a trading post and later as the will open a second restaurant in a former West Bottoms gas stronghold of Kansas City’s stockyard industry, the West station later this year. Business owners agree that they’re Bottoms has since fallen into a state of disrepair and neglect, attracted to the area not only by reasonable real estate prices, filled with abandoned buildings that stand as a testament to but also by the sheer potential of the West Bottoms, a canvas the area’s heyday. that has yet to be branded with a masterpiece.

Yet as a result of diligent efforts of business owners Several businesses have seized the opportunity to and residents, the West Bottoms is slowly undergoing a not only locate themselves in an evolving area, but also to thorough revitalization thanks to reasonably priced real embrace the history that has made the West Bottoms such estate and a prime location that straddles the Missouri- a vital part of Kansas City’s growth. Joy Jacobs, owner of Kansas state line. Joi Brozek, the Kansas City community R Bar, says she named the bar and restaurant after finding manager for Yelp and a New York native, declares the West a giant ‘R’ in salvage, which formerly graced a Rexall Drug Bottoms to be comparable to “pre-hipster Williamsburg, building in Kansas City.

Brooklyn, back when it was a virtual wasteland of old warehouses and Kansas City’s historic West Bottoms district is said nary a trendy potbelly by many to be the city’s next big thing nor destination Thai by katy ryan restaurant in sight.”

No longer known only for housing the scariest of Kansas City’s haunted “The letter ‘R’ was so unique that I couldn’t pass it by,” houses and a favorite architectural salvage destination, the she says. “It spoke of history and paid homage to the tradition West Bottoms is becoming increasingly identified as an of the American Royal that made Kansas City and the West arts and cultural mecca. Inside the towering warehouses of Bottoms so famous. The history of the area, the building and the West Bottoms are a number of shops, restaurants and the traditions that were cultivated here are important to keep businesses. In a sprawling loft on Union Avenue, aerialist alive.”

Rachel McMeachin hosts regular Dr. Sketchy’s drawing As business owners discover the benefits of the West sessions on Sunday evenings, during which local artists and Bottoms, residents aren’t far behind. The city is reported creatives meet to converse and practice figure drawing with to be considering new zoning for the area that would result a live burlesque model. The Hobbs Building is a mecca of in a larger population allowance, opening up a wealth of local artistry, a three-story structure filled with studio space opportunities to live throughout the sprawling district. that belongs to a variety of artists and artisans representing Large, airy lofts are the primary residential spaces available everything from photography and stained glass to robot in the West Bottoms, an ideal choice for those who need a design and performance art. functional intersection of home and office space.

New businesses are also opening in the West Bottoms, “Nowadays, the West Bottoms has become a hot creating a slowly emerging commercial community that spot for new development and architectural rehabs, and is continues to attract a steady stream of patrons to the once- drawing a strong arts community to the area,” as described forgotten area. Salvage boutique Liberty Belle KC and R by the owners of R Bar. “New restaurants and retail Bar are two of the more recent businesses to open in the West shops are beginning to open up and a new West Bottoms Bottoms, while other Kansas City establishments, including neighborhood and community is emerging.” the Dolphin Gallery, chose to relocate from downtown and

movin’ on up in the bottoms

Foundation Architectural Reclamation, 1221 Union Ave., 816.283.8990

For a touch of true distinction within your home or office space, architectural salvage pieces are unmatched. Like antique and vintage shopping, architectural salvage requires a certain amount of patience. Foundation stocks a variety of salvaged pieces, including doors, columns, hall mirrors, metal work, woodwork, lighting and more. Look for art deco pieces, remnants of one of the more prevalent architectural styles found throughout Kansas City, or find iconic mementos of Kansas City companies such as Hallmark.

Good JuJu, 1412 W. 12th St., 816.421.1930

Open the first weekend of every month, Good JuJu is a vintage and antique lover’s dream. Filled with furniture, accessories, clothing and housewares from a variety of time periods, Good JuJu is best described as a monthly treasure hunt. If you can, get there on Friday to ensure the best selection. Items are added monthly.

Liberty Belle KC, 11th and Liberty, www.libertybellekc.com

Newly opened as of April, Liberty Belle is the West Bottoms’ latest salvage boutique, which, like Good JuJu, is only open the first weekend of the month. Browse a selection of furniture, home accessories and salvage pieces, as well as items created by local artisans including T-shirts, scarves and vintage jewelry. Liberty Belle will celebrate its grand opening in May.

Jerry’s Woodswethers Cafe, 1414 9th St., 816.472.6333

Declared by a Yelp reviewer as “the epicenter of the greasy spoon,” Jerry’s has become a favorite place for breakfast and lunch. Cheeseburgers, waffles and biscuits and gravy top the must-try list, but the menu is so good, you can’t go wrong no matter what you choose.

R Bar, 1617 Gennessee St., 816.471.1777

Across from the historic Golden Ox restaurant, R Bar is a true retreat complete with nattily dressed bartenders, stylish décor and one of the best cocktail menus in the city. Oh, and the food’s not bad, either. Here you’ll find cocktail concoctions created from top-shelf liqueurs and inventive ingredients—the elderflower margarita is equally refreshing and tasty.

looking back on the west bottoms

“The stockyards (established in 1871) then chose to develop there because of the livestock that came in from the Southwest over the rails. A whole city grew around the stockyards. The Union Depot was built on Union Street, where hotels, bars and restaurants flourished. More than 90 percent of the value in Kansas City lay in the West Bottoms. A devastating flood in 1903 ended the investment in housing, schools and churches. However, the agricultural, meat packing, freight and industrial investments continued to grow. By then, the rule of thumb was clearly established: namely, the economic vitality of the city was determined by the economic progress of the West Bottoms.”

—Information provided by the West Bottoms Business District

other worldly

lingerie: clair de lune, overland park, ks accessories: jamie david models: henry uribe+alexandria harkins styling: katie snustead/mink artistry production by: trey hock photos: kelley walker chance/kelley photo

After growing up on a diet that consisted mostly of “Cheetos and peanut butter and jelly washed down with tropical punch Kool-Aid,” Andrea Adkins began to consider a healthier diet and holistic medicine, particularly following a bad chemical reaction.

“I had major complications with the chemical aspartame, which is commonly found in diet sodas,” says Adkins, the economic development administrator for the City of Leavenworth and a certified CrossFit Instructor and Nutritionist. “I started doing research on chemicals and their effects on the body. My youth masked many of the problems I was having, and it wasn’t until I actually experienced a problem that I started studying more.”

As she began her research, Adkins learned that many people “fear homeopathy,” in part because of a lack of understanding. According to the American Holistic Medical Association, holistic medicine “is the art and science of healing that addresses the whole person—body, mind and spirit. The practice of holistic medicine integrates conventional and alternative therapies to prevent and treat disease, and most importantly, to promote optimal health.”

Those who favor homeopathic and alternative therapies tend to focus not just on remedies for illnesses and common ailments, but on maintaining a healthy, nutrient-filled diet as a proactive approach to ward off colds, flu and to keep the body in prime condition.

Natural Medical Care has offices in Kansas City and Lawrence, and uses naturopathic medicine

to “emphasize prevention of disease, maintenance of optimal health, and promotion of the individual’s inherent self-healing process.” Adkins has visited them for even mild infections. “This is where treatment of the entire person comes in,” she says, “While physicians treat people for outlying problems like stress, which certainly can cause health problems, they generally tend to focus on the ailment, rather than treating the cause of the ailment and preventing future issues.”

In addition to assisting with whole body wellness and the treatment of common ailments, holistic healing principles are also used for more severe medical conditions, such as cancer. Greg Anderson is the founder of the Cancer Recovery Foundation of America, the country’s largest holistic cancer non-profit organization.

In an article titled “A Simplified Explanation of Holistic Health,” Anderson explains how holistic principles apply to cancer patients.

“We first teach the fundamental principle that wellness is much more than the lack of physical symptoms,” he wrote. “Total well-being and the interdependence of body/mind/spirit is new to nearly all our participants. We emphasize that our minds and spirits are ill only if we allow it. This issue of personal responsibility for our choices is a theme that is carried throughout the program.”

Anderson’s Cancer Conquerors wellness program uses eight points, including treatment, exercise, social support and diet and nutrition to give patients the tools with which to positively affect their minds and spirits and, in turn, their bodies.

Homeopathy:

An introduction

to whole-body

healing

by Katy Ryan

Various holistic and naturopathic principles can also be used as a preventative measure to help the body ward off ailments and illnesses. Vitamins and herbs are commonly used to boost the body’s immune system and promote general well-being.

“Vitamin C is wonderful for warding off colds,” Adkins says.

“I take several thousand milligrams if I feel a cold coming on. The best part about vitamin C is that it’s water soluble, which means that any vitamins not absorbed by your system are passed through the kidneys into your urine. You can also boost your immune system through supplementation with popular herbs like olive leaf and echinacea.”

Holistic practitioners also emphasize a healthy diet, which is just as important in maintaining physical and mental well-being.

Susana Belen Lombardi wrote “Principles of Good Health,” and outlined several practices that can be implemented every day to ensure your body’s overall wellness. Her tips? Avoid fried foods, and never go to bed with a full stomach. Avoid using sugar or lowcalorie sugar substitutes and eliminate consumption of soda, coffee and table salt. To flavor foods without salt, Lombardi suggests garlic, cayenne or Bio Salt.

As with any major change, adopting holistic health principles is a process that takes time, education and a degree of discipline.

Consider a consultation with a local practitioner to help outline what practices and techniques will work best for your body. Before starting herbal supplements, it’s a good idea to check for prescription drug interactivity with a certified physician or practitioner. Some herbs can reduce the efficacy of prescription medications like birth control pills.

“Like pharmaceuticals, homeopathic remedies can be dangerous if taken without supervision,” Adkins says. “The Internet is a good source of information, but can be filled with as much misinformation as reputable research, especially if someone stands to make money off a product. Yet with the right supervision and a diet based on whole, unprocessed foods, there should not be too many reasons for you to visit the doctor in the future. Minor ailments can be cured, treated and even prevented with homeopathy.”

homeopathic and alternative medicine practitioners in kc include:

harmony health systems inc.

816.436.9355 www.harmonyhealth.com kc holistic center

913.322.0023 www.kcholistic.com natural medical care

913.345.0060 www.naturalmedicalcare.com for general information about whole body wellness, pick up an issue of martha stewart’s body+soul magazine

www.wholeliving.com

next issue : we focus on energy healing. what would you like to learn? have ideas to contribute? email info@quirkthemagazine.com

playlist by josh solar

Homebird / Foy Vance Give a Man a Home / Ben Harper To Build a Home / The Cinematic Orchestra Happy Home (Keep on Writing) / Kimya Dawson Bring It Home / Custom Kings Home / Edward Sharpe+the Magnetic Zeroes Find My Way Back Home / Priscilla Ahn To Go Home / M. Ward So Glad I’m Coming Home / Laughorne Slim Homeward These Shoes / Iron & Wine Comin’ Home / City + Colour Home / Jack Johnson Homeward Bound / Simon & Garfunkel Home / Xavier Rudd

black bean+mango+avocado salad : this simple, delicious concoction toss

1/2 cup black beans screams “spring” and delights 1/2 cup fresh mango winter-starved tastebuds. make 1/4 ripe avocado it your own with different garnish with: herbs, fruits & veggies & tell 1 tbs shaved red onion us your favorite combo on sprig of basil quirkthemagazine.com.

unmasqued : the making of a model journaled by katie snustead photographed by kelley walker chance/kelley photo

Jobs are necessary, while hobbies seem a little more like luxuries. America is “the land of opportunity,” but too often those opportunities fall flat in the face of “reality.” Because, how does an artist, musician, photographer or model take their hobby and merge it into a career that is lucrative?

Several years ago I asked myself that question. I was working at a hospital and earning a decent salary for a first post-college job, but what I really loved was styling. I had worked as a freelance stylist through college, but wasn’t sure how I could turn it into a full-time job. After some innovative planning and strategizing, I started my company, Mink Artistry. I found that by combining the event planning skills I’d accumulated at my hospital job with the styling skills I‘d developed freelancing, I could focus on weddings and earn more than I was making at my day job. Voila, my hobby as a job!

After five years in business, I was ready for another project to add to weddings and photo shoot styling. During that time I came in contact with tons of girls in Kansas City who were interested in modeling, but weren’t sure how to get started professionally. They were in the same position I’d been five years earlier. I decided to take the Mink Artistry concept and apply it to the world of modeling. That’s when the idea of Unmasqued was born. The goal was to provide career training to local aspiring models ¬and introduce them to pivotal people in the Kansas City fashion industry.

Unmasqued would be a week long competition with a fashion show finale where the winner

would be determined. All sponsors for the event would be local companies and the fashion show would feature local KC designers and boutiques. This would be a showcase of Kansas City talent from start to finish! With my business partner, Kelley Walker Chance of Kelley Photo, we began putting together a team of industry professionals to train the contestants and produce the runway show.

It took some time for the concept to gain momentum. Too often in the modeling industry people are promised great things with little delivery and people were leery of placing trust in a new event. However, we signed up 11 contestants and more than 20 local sponsors. In addition, local media outlets were excited to lend much support with on-air coverage and print advertising.

Because the event featured local artists, we wanted all of the door sales to benefit the local arts community. As we began shopping for non-profit sponsors, we came to discover that while Kansas City boasts several fantastic organizations for local arts, none of them provide direct financial resources to artists. In our experience, the one thing artists need when getting started is funding. So we began the process of starting and managing a non-profit organization that would do just that. That was the beginning of the Society of Starving Artists (SoSA). Each of the artists and vendors that contributed to Unmasqued would have the opportunity to “weigh in” on SoSA’s development. SoSA would provide grants to local artists for events and then sponsor those events with promotional support.

The competition began Monday, February 22, 2010. Monday’s seminars were all about print modeling and posing in preparation for Tuesday’s photo shoot. The participants were instructed on being interviewed - a skill that transcends the world of modeling and is crucial for any job. The girls had a surprise challenge that evening and were filmed with reporter Bonyen Lee from KCTV 5 News who asked what modeling meant to them. The answers ranged from fun, to confidence building and being a role model.

unmasqued runner-up adriana salas

On Tuesday, the girls blew us away at their individual photo shoots by Kelley Photo, and were scored on three challenges. The scores were tight and we realized that we had a close competition on our hands! Wednesday was devoted to community service and involvement. We visited John F. Kennedy Elementary School and decorated masks that would be used as décor for the fashion show finale with Mrs. Walker’s 4th and 5th grade students. Most of the volunteers and contestants felt that the time at the school was the best experience of the competition and an opportunity to remember that art brings people together. lunch we

Over worked on runway skills.

Walking with confidence and grace is an important skill for a model and since most of our contestants had never been on a runway, they had a lot of learning to do before the fashion show on Saturday! We concluded our day with a tour of the Roasterie, a Kansas City original, and learned the proper method for tasting coffee, which is to slurp it into your nasal passage. Since I’d been encouraging the models all week to step outside of their comfort zone and try things that may feel a little silly, they insisted I do the same so…I slurped first!

Thursday was devoted to designer fittings. The models were paired with a local designer and scored on skills that had been presented at the instructional seminars. Friday was reserved for light rehearsal and becoming comfortable in the dressing room and on the runway at the beautiful Madrid Theater in mid-town Kansas City. above:

On Friday, February 27th, more than 200 attendees enjoyed cocktails, live music, and shopped exclusive Kansas City boutiques while awaiting the show. As I watched each model slip through the curtain and onto the runway, I was so proud of how far each them and felt lucky have been able to be their mentor and friend.

The competition was intense, and individual scoring was very close, but in the end our Unmasqued 2010 winner was the lovely Katie Olson, with Adriana Salas winning runner-up. Katie competed strongly throughout the competition and has a subtle grace not only in front of the camera and on the runway, but with all whom she is in contact. She was awarded with a Dovetail Model Network contract, $500 educational scholarship from SoSA and is featured on the cover of this issue of Quirk and the following fashion spread.

Congratulations to Katie and each of the contestants; we wish them the best of luck and hope that they enjoyed the experience of Unmasqued as much as I did.

For information about future Unmasqued events, visit www.modelskc.com.

the unmasqued contestants with fourth & fifth grade girls from john f. kennedy elementary. top left: makenzie kurre works with the students, creating masquerade masks and memories. middle left: the group of unmasqued girls invades the roasterie for an educational tour. bottom left: contestants practice their walk, preparing for the finale runway show.

come

f l y with me

unmasqued winner katie olson models spring styles from hemline & scarlett garnet photographed by kelley walker chance/kelley photo hair/makeup styling by katie snustead/mink artistry scene styling by melissa robbins captured at the airline history museum

trina turk blue jumpsuit / $187 scarlett garnet earings / $32, necklace / $65, & bracelet / $35

karlie v-neck ruffle zipper dress / $108 free people oatmeal double breasted cardigan / $148 elise m. mesh waist belt / $33 scarlett garnett nouveau curls necklace / $68 vintage purse

free people black knit dress / $108 free people long blazer / $148 matt+nat coral purse / $118 vintage scarf

karlie white v-neck shirt with pocket / $75 mm couture high waist short / $55 vintage scarf & sunglasses

gina ciacco-holmberg

twenty questions

Gina is a skilled make-up artist, thrift store junkie, and the baker/brains behind the whoopie pies at Whoop.de.do! She is also a wife to her sweetie-pie Jared, mother to her darling one-year-old, Addison, and the three of them are happily expecting a baby girl in the fall.

1. most embarrassing celebrity crush: David Beckham. It pains

me to even say that! He doesn’t belong in my normal group of crushes: David Letterman, Jeff Goldblum, Woody Allen. But, yes, I do crush on the Becks.

2. any tattoos: I have 4. Two crosses, a star, and a horrible one on my ankle that we

won’t even discuss. I see lasering in my future!

3. who would play you in a movie: As far as appearance goes, I have to say SJP. I get,

“you remind me so much of Sarah Jessica Parker,” on a daily basis. I was even supposed to be her stand-in for a movie, but then she backed out!

4. what’s one song that never fails to put you in a good mood: “Hey Hey What can I do”, by Led Zeplin. Such a great song!

5. what’s your favorite accessory: I love rings, and I really love vintage rings. I have a vintage panther ring that I wear all of the time. No, sadly, not the Cartier panther ring.

6. favorite place to shop in kc: Any thrift store, I don’t even care if I walk out empty

handed, I have such a buzz when walking in! I also LOVE Habitat in Leawood and Hammerpress in the Crossroads.

7. what is the perfect shade of lipstick?: NARS jungle red, Dragon Girl, or red lizard are perfect. My favorite nude is pale pink by Bobbi Brown, or Barbarella by NARS.

8. pets? I am longing for a French Bulldog, but that dream will have to wait.

9. if you could meet one person dead or alive who would it be: Leonard Cohen 10. if you could invent something to make your life easier, what would it do? It’s

already been invented! A kitchen-aid stand mixer!! I mix everything with a hand held mixer, & my shoulder always feels like a football player’s probably does!

11. what is your favorite nail polish color? Lately it’s Chanel, Particuliere. It’s this

great Taupe color. Chanel polish is a bit on the pricey side, but it wears like a dream.

12. favorite place to hideout: Before moving to Kansas City I lived in Los

Angeles, and would go to matinees by myself constantly. It was the best way to escape! Now, I have a 13 month old, so any form of “hiding out” usually involves hide & seek!

13. when you were young, what did you want to be when you ‘grew up?’ A fashion de-

signer in Paris. That started at 7 years old.

14. one thing you’d like to never have to do again: Labor for 28 hours before having an

emergency C-section!

15. rain or sunshine? The sun. I can’t wait for summer!

16. where was the last place that you traveled?Sweet home, Chicago.

18. what is your order at Starbucks? A three pump skim chai latte with no foam. Gosh, I probably sound like a ditz to the person behind me.

19. favorite dance move: I have been known to bust out the “centipede” a time or two.

20. you’re invited to a potluck with all your favorite people... what do you bring to eat or drink? My whoopie pies, of course! And a bottle of red wine!

Whether you’ve recently relocated to a new area or simply want to make

a deeper connection with your surrounding community, a philanthropic

organization provides unmatched opportunities to meet other like-minded individuals while giving back to those in need. And in Kansas City, numerous philanthropic

organizations exist that are specifically designed for young professionals, many of which provide networking and mentoring opportunities in addition to volunteer projects and social functions. Read on for a sampling of young professional philanthropic groups and how you can become a member.

get involved, give make lasting connections in a philanthropic group geared toward

united way young leaders society

(www.unitedwaygkc.org)

Contribute an annual gift of $1,200 or more to the United Way of Greater Kansas City and you’ll have an opportunity to become a member of the Young Leaders Society, a group founded “to provide community involvement and personal development opportunities to its young members,” according to redundant used in first feature the United Way of Greater Kansas City. “This unique and dynamic group offers its members multiple avenues to become involved in the community, to directly make a difference in people’s lives and to ultimately become leaders in greater Kansas City.”

Young Leaders Society members participate in a variety of United Way events throughout the year, including a conversation series that allow members to network with a Kansas City business leader. Other events include movie outings, mentoring and volunteer projects. Members are not subject to any attendance requirements and instead are encouraged to participate in events that connect with the member’s areas of interest.

For those interested in joining the Young Leaders Society that aren’t able to immediately contribute $1,200, the United Way offers a step-up program through which members contribute $600 in their first year and commit to a $1,200 contribution by their third year. A typical investment schedule is $600 the first year, $900 the second year and $1,200 the third year. For more information on the step-up program, send an e-mail to katygriffin@uwgkc.org.

ozanam guild (www.ozanamguild.org)

The Ozanam Guild is the young professionals volunteering and fundraising organization within the Ozanam group. Described as a treatment center for troubled children and their families that strives to provide quality services in response to the needs of families and youth struggling with severe emotional, behavioral or learning problems, Ozanam offers residential treatment, on-campus day treatment, transitional living programs and behavior consultations to address a variety of youth needs.

Ozanam also uses a variety of therapy programs, including horticulture, recreation, art and substance abuse with which to connect to children and help them overcome various substance or emotional disorders.

Members of the Ozanam Guild interact regularly to build connections and raise donations for Ozanam. Events include an annual Erin Go Bar Hoppin’ pub crawl and a summer concert.

“Guild membership offers opportunities to meet new people and network with other young professionals while playing a vital role in Ozanam’s efforts to serve children and their families,” according to the Guild.

bacchus foundation kc (www.bacchuskc.com)

What began in 1955 as a philanthropic, social and service organization to benefit the Kansas City Philharmonic has since expanded to “introduce and integrate young adults into Kansas City’s civic, cultural and educational communities,” according to information provided by Bacchus Foundation.

“The Foundation’s primary objective is to conduct fundraising and provide volunteers for an annually selected beneficiary.

Through assisting such worthy causes in the Kansas City community, Bacchus members have the opportunity to promote their own individual development, as well as form lasting professional and social relationships young professionals. with each other.”

Events are held by katy ryan throughout the year, not only to promote social interaction among members but also to raise funds for a variety of Kansas City charities. The Kansas City Art Institute, Lyric Theater, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Rose Brooks Center for Battered Women, The Good Samaritan Project and Gordon Parks Elementary School have all received money raised by Bacchus Foundation KC, and for the 2009/10 fundraising season, proceeds will benefit the Child Protection Center.

Arguably the most anticipated Bacchus Foundation event of the year is the annual Bacchus Black Ball, a formal evening that includes food and drinks, as well as silent and live auctions and live entertainment. In addition to its reputation as a lively event that benefits a local charity, the Bacchus Black Ball is also the least expensive black-tie charity event in Kansas City, making it a realistic option for young professionals eager to connect with others and give back to the community.

To join Bacchus Foundation KC, simply subscribe to the group’s contact list and begin volunteering your time at various Bacchus events.

“As a new member, you will have to express an interest in making Kansas City a better place and, more importantly, act on those interests,” according to the foundation. “Raising awareness together provides valuable experience in the operation of a nonprofit organization, and the Bacchus Foundation has contributed to the development of many philanthropists and community leaders who have been instrumental in the development of Kansas City.”

e back

for more opportunities to get involved in kansas city philanthropic organizations that cater to young professionals, consider: friends of rose brooks

(www.rosebrooks.org), an

organization “dedicated to ending domestic violence by providing a place of shelter for abused women who are in a desperate situation,” according to Rose Brooks. friends of sunflower house

(www.sunflowerhouse.org), which

works to prevent and protect children suffering from domestic and sexual abuse. friends of mocsa (www.mocsa.

org), an extension of the Metropolitan

Organization to Counter Sexual Assault, which works to lessen the effects of sexual abuse and assault through a variety of ways including prevention, education, intervention, treatment and advocacy, according to a summary provided by MOCSA.

ccvi young professionals

(www.ccvi.org), an organization open to

young professionals who want to help blind and visually impaired children succeed.

style renovation :

shelly hughes

wardrobe renovation by jessie artigue/style & pepper hair & makeup renovation by katie snustead+ shovelle ronnette steed/mink artistry photographed by kelley walker chance/kelley photo

hair & makeup (katie): For Shelley’s hair and makeup renovation, we started with an inventory of what she had on hand already. Like most of us, the supplies in her bathroom were a hodge-podge of items she’d picked up at the drug store and home makeup parties, so we were starting from scratch.

For her hair, she used an over the counter shampoo and conditioner and mostly wore her hair in a ponytail because none of the products she’s tried have helped tame her extremely thick wavy locks. Next we talked about skin and hair health, since no amount of hair products or makeup can replace a naturally healthy look.

It was time to shop! We headed to MAC on the Plaza, and chose the Lightful Lines Creme Cleanser and Moisturizer. At $62, this was an investment and a great match for her combination skin. From there we headed to a beauty supply store and upgraded to some hair products that would help tame frizz; Moroccan oil and thermal spray, total cost $25. Then it was time for the fun part!

We gathered photos of celebrities with similar features and hair type and gave Shelly some options for her cut. We settled on a photo of Kate Beckinsale. Since Shelly has a high hair line but likes to wear her hair up, bangs were a great option. Darkening her color a few shades with a caramel highlight brought out the beautiful, olive complexion in her skin and really showed off her hazel eyes. Next, we selected makeup options that were lowmaintenance and high result. We wanted the end result to look effortless. Her new regimen consists of a MAC tinted moisturizer all over, a little concealer (when needed), creamy blush in a dull pink, creamy nude eye shadow, black liner on her upper eye-lid and half on the lower, and blackest black mascara. Throw on a little rosey tinted lip gloss and she’s out the door in 5 minutes flat. To transition into an evening look, we added a few smokey colored eyeshadows in, moonstone, goldish-brown and charcoal. Total cost for cosmetics and brushes was right around $300.

While I was busy updating Shelly’s hair and makeup style, she was busy getting a fabulous wardrobe transformation...

26 year old Shelly Hughes is adorable. But with a destination wedding approaching in May and three little ones at home she doesn’t have a ton of time to waste each morning on her hair, makeup & clothes. After losing 10 pounds (way to go, girlfriend!) she attacked her closet and purged everything but a wellfitting pair of skinny jeans, some basic tank tops and a great pair of boots.

That’s where we came in.

wardrobe (jessie): After learning about an average day in Shelly’s life, her favorite colors and stores, and the kind of image she is hoping to portray, we set out to scour the racks for some perfect pieces! Our first stop was the City Union Mission Thrift Store on 75th & Wornall in Kansas City. We pored through every aisle of clothing and didn’t head to the fitting rooms until we had two carts full of potential items.

One of the things that I like to remind clients of when shopping at thrift or consignment stores, is that it can take a lot of digging and sorting until you actually find things that are worth your time and money. Our style subject patiently tried everything on, and even though she was a bit hesistant about some of the items (a slouchy grandpa sweater and a bold patterned skirt that was about 8 sizes too big), she willingly cooperated and we left with over ten items for about $35 dollars!

Next, we headed to Forever21 to search for some on-trend pieces we could mix and match nicely with our vintage and thrifted finds. Several tunics, two more pairs of jeans, some tanks tops and accessories were at the top of our list.

Sticking to a tight budget was our top priority, and we left with several bags of goodies for just over $350.

Last stop was Target for some patterned tights, scarves, belts and a great pair of shoes. We swept in and back out in a matter of minutes and then it was time to style everything together!

When we put it all together to shoot the bright, fresh new version of our Sweet Shelly, we were so excited by her transformation! By learning how to piece together some fabulous looks with her new wardrobe, hair and makeup, she was able to strut her stuff with confidence and she left the studio ready to tackle life in style! more info on hair/makeup renovations : katie@minkartistry.com more info on wardrobe renovations : www.styleandpepper.com

calendar

places to go, people to see...

DIY Workshop: Making Paper Flowers sponsored by the Kansas City Wedding Hive April 22, 2010 5-8:30pm / 2014 Main St KCMO www.weddinghive.com

Urban Picnic - KC Originals Restaurants April 25 5-9pm / Nara - 1617 Main St KCMO kcoriginals.com City Market Farm to Table Festival Series - Flower Frenzy May 1 9am-2pm / City Market - 20 E. 5th St KCMO www.citymarket.org

Colfax Boutique Grand Opening

May 3 5-8pm / 611 W. 39th St KCMO Showcasing and selling local artists including Scarlett Garnet, Emmy Ray Jewelry, A Shade Crazy, Genevieve Flynn, & Monkey Wrench Clothing.

First Fridays

May 7 / Crossroads District KCMO www.kccrossroads.org

Wedding Hive Meet and Greet

May 20, 2010 6-9pm / R-Bar - 1617 Genessee KCMO www.weddinghive.com

First Fridays

June 4 / Crossroads District KCMO www.kccrossroads.org

City Market Farm to Table Festival Series - Saucy Salad Day

June 5 9am-2pm / City Market - 20 E. 5th St KCMO www.citymarket.org

Run Against Time 5K - Benefitting the Meningitis Foundation of KC. June 12, 2010 6am - 9pm / Legends @ Village West KCKS www.sportkc.org/runningagainsttime

West 18th Street Fashion Show - free outdoor event

June 12, 2010 8pm / West 18th St, between Wyandotte & Baltimore, KCMO www.westeighteenthstreet.com

First Fridays

July 2 / Crossroads District KCMO www.kccrossroads.org

City Market Farm to Table Festival Series - Twisted Tomato Day

July 3 9am-2pm / City Market - 20 E. 5th St KCMO www.citymarket.org

Honeypot Shop sponsored by the Wedding Hive

July 22, 2010 / 1717 Oak St KCMO Indie craft show featuring work by wedding hive members and other kansas city artists and designers. www.weddinghive.com

Ric Rac Round-up

July 24, 2010 9-4pm / 314 Westport Rd KCMO Indie art and craft fair featuring all local Kansas City designers. ricracroundup.blogspot.com

social calendar still not full? check out these local websites to find your weekend plans - they’re all chock full of concerts, events, fundraisers, and good times! citymarket.org countryclubplaza.com crossroadskc.com czarbar.com daveysuptown.com inkkc.com kansascityonthecheap.com kcbulldog.com kccrossroads.org kcfreepress.com kcoriginals.com pitch.com powerandlightdistrict.com presentmagazine.com tastebudmagazine.com therecordbar.com westeighteenthstreet.com

quirkthemagazine.com facebook.com/quirkthemagazine twitter.com/quirkmag info@quirkthemagazine.com

moc.enizagamehtk riuq enizagamehtk riuq/moc.koobecaf gamk riuq/moc.rettiwt moc.enizagamehtkriuq@ofni