BLOUDER 5 MUSIC
MAY 2018
MAKES
IT BETTER
21 WAYS
TO UPDATE YOUR LOOK
WAYS TO
At The Mercy Of
YOURSELF
Our Emotions
LOVE BETTER
DANIELA DREI
COLLECTION
BRANDON STANSELL JOY VILLA . ANGUS CU MMINGS . DREW MENNING . JACK STORMS . OLGA BAZHUTOVA
don’t be just loud
BLOUDER
BLOUDER
CONTENTS
8 BLOUDER MODEL OF THE MONTH 8 Angus Cummings
BLOUDER MUSIC 14 Joy Villa
BLOUDER LIFESTYLE 20 Humanology For Couples: Share The Path 22 At The Mercy Of Our Emotions
ON THE COVER Model: Brandon Stansell Photographer: The Riker Brothers
23 Heaven Must've Needed Him More 24 5 Ways To Love Yourself Better
3 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER
CONTENTS 56
34 14
BLOUDER SPOTLIGHT
28
40 Cover Guy: Brandon Stansell
BLOUDER ART 48 Jack Storms 26 Music Makes It Better
CLICK OUT LOUDER 28 Olga Bazhutova
STYLE OUT LOUDER 54 21 Ways To Update Your Look 56 Daniela Drei Collection
BLOUDER HEALTH & FITNESS 34 Drew Menning
IN EVERY ISSUE 5 Editor’s Letter
VIEWS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THE ARTICLES ARE OF THE AUTHORS/SUBJECTS AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THOSE OF THE EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE THE EDITORS DO THEIR UTMOST TO VERIFY INFORMATION PUBLISHED, THEY DO NOT ACCEPT RESPONSI-BILITY FOR ITS ABSOLUTE ACCURACY. BLOUDER TAKES NO RESPONSIVITY FOR UNSOLICITED PHOTOGRAPHS OR MATERIAL. IN MATTERS WHICH MAY BE SUB JUDICE, BLOUDER TAKES NO LEGAL STAND. BLOUDER CAN NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR PRODUCTS, PRODUCT IN-FORMATION, PICTURES, ILLUSTRATIONS, ETC.
4 BLOUDER
May 2018
EDITOR’S
LETTER
Music is the most important part of human life. It’s your best friend and it’s always there for you whether you’re sad or happy, whether you’re confused or confident. On the cover is Brandon Stansell, born with Country Music in his veins, but it wasn’t until after transplanting to L.A. that he started developing his own brand of 'California Country.' His is a bold new voice in the genre, as comfortable making you tap your foot as shed a tear - a singer songwriter with something to say, and a voice to remember.
Photographer: Dhananjai Madaan
We also covered the story of incredibly talented and skilled beyond all reason, Jack Storms was destined to be someone truly amazing. Both a tremendous athlete and a motivated student growing up in New Hampshire, it wasn’t until later in life that Jack discovered his passion for contemporary art.
Write to us bloudermagazine@gmail.com
Follow @bloudermagazine on Instagram @bloudermagazine on Twitter Fb.com/bloudermagazine bloudermagazine.com
Music Makes It Better don’t be just loud
BLOUDER
Our Model of the Model is Angus Cummings, who started modeling at 8 years of age with a local kids agency: Starfish Kids. Last year, when he turned 16, he moved to an adult modeling agency: Five Twenty Management. The May issue also features Joy Villa, a recording artist whose EP "I Make the Static" rocketed to the #1 spot on both iTunes and Amazon following her 2017 Grammys' appearance, beating out Beyoncé, Adele, and Lady Gaga, and landed her a #1 Album in Alternative, #1 in Rock, and a #12 spot on Billboards Top 200 Albums. We features the story of Drew Menning, who created his online personal training business called DrewLife which led to a career in modeling and being signed by The Peak Agency. We also interviewed Olga Bazhutova, a photographer who believes, “There is a harmony between the gracefulness of horse and the beauty of a woman and I try to embody it in my photographs.” We always appreciate hearing from you, if you have any questions and suggestions, let us know.
JASKARAN S. DHILLON EDITOR Instagram: @jaskaransdhillon
BLOUDER MODEL of the MONTH
Featuring
ANGUS CUMMINGS Photographer: Milos Mlynarik @milosmlynarik
Photographer: Milos Mlynarik @milosmlynarik
ANG US CUM MIN GS
BLOUDER Model of the Month Photographer: Milos Mlynarik @milosmlynarik
10 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Model of the Month
H
ow would you define yourself as a person? Fun, a great lover of life and committed.
Tell us about your career as a model. How were you discovered? I started modeling at 8 years of age with a local kids agency: Starfish Kids. The work was so much fun and I enjoyed meeting the great variety of people involved in the industry. I was pretty lucky to get quite a bit of work and to do TV commercials and some bit roles on television. I grew quite a bit taller, and so part way through last year, when I turned 16, I moved to an adult modeling agency: Five Twenty Management. In your own eyes, what was the moment that your career really took off? It’s been a slow progression over the last eight years. I’ve only just entered the adult modeling world. I love print, commercials and film and can't wait to have a go at runway. What’s one of the most interesting shoots that you’ve done? Shooting for the Aussie water park Wet' n' Wild was a great day. The park was closed off for the shoot and we got to go on the rides all day while having photos taken. Did you ever have a crazy experience during your modeling career? I did a shoot for a Segway tour company, which was a blast, even when I fell off attempting to go down some stairs. It’s also been interesting going from being a kid model where you smile all the time, to an adult model, where you need to look serious most of the time. What was the biggest change in your life after entering into modelling industry? Because I’ve been modeling since 8 years of age, there hasn’t been a big
change. It’s just a matter of when jobs come up, juggling it with school and sporting commitments. We always find a way to make it work. Have you reached your dream assignment yet? If not, what would that dream assignment be? James Bond and Calvin Klein What is one of your favorite photographs from your career so far? Who shot it? My favorite image so far is one taken in a swimming pool, shot by the awesome photographer Michael Murchie, on a Queensland island. How did you get into fitness? I’ve been pretty fit and involved in sport since I can remember. My fitness revolves around sport, surfing and working out at the gym. What’s a typical week like for you? I’m in Year 11 at school, so predominantly that, plus sport, surfing, friends, family and shoots when they come up. Tell us something that's true, that almost nobody agrees with you on. That I’m always right. Only joking. Give us 5 facts about you, people may not know. I love skiing, I demolish sashimi, I whistle a lot, love to laugh and I play chess. What’s next for you? Who knows! Looking forward to it whatever it is. Do you have any advice for those who want to start modeling? Do what you love and love what you do. If you are starting out in modeling and enjoying it then you are already winning. Don’t take knock backs personally. Practice your frowning… you have to do that a lot in photos. Agent: Ryan Hall at FiveTwenty Model Management http://www.fivetwentymgt.com/ portfolios/angus-c Instagram: @cummings.angus
11 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Model of the Month Photographer: Pat Supsiri @patsupsiri
12 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER MUSIC
Featuring
JOY VILLA Photographer: Thorsten Overgaard
Joy Villa Photographer: Thorsten Overgaard
BLOUDER Music JOY THE PERFORMER "PLAYFUL, VIBRANT, SPIRITUAL AND BOLD, JOY VILLA IS A TRUE ENTERTAINER." Joy Villa is a recording artist whose EP "I Make the Static" rocketed to the #1 spot on both iTunes and Amazon following her 2017 Grammys' appearance, beating out Beyoncé, Adele, and Lady Gaga, and landed her a #1 Album in Alternative, #1 in Rock, and a #12 spot on Billboards Top 200 Albums. Joy’s a true entertainer who tours 25 countries a year and has wowed the world with her red-carpet style (Entertainment Weekly, E!, Billboard, NY Daily News, Los Angeles Times, to name a few). Joy is a natural music and theater performer, discovering her knack for the stage at the age of 5 in her first theater musical. Joy loves writing songs and has collaborated on numerous projects around the world with an array of international producers and artists. Joy blends alternative rock, soul and pop into finely crafted tunes that aim to motivate and inspire. She treats her fans known as #JoyTribe to "The Joy Villa Experience.” JOY THE SPEAKER "USE YOUR VOICE AND SPEAK UP. NEVER STOP TEACHING AND INSPIRING THE WORLD." Joy is a natural onstage in any environment. She grew up performing in theater at age 5 and went onto host a weekly live TV show at age 16, reaching 40,000 homes in California. Joy's unique perspectives as a millennial on business and branding as a successful independent artist and entrepreneur have helped and inspired many others to do the same. She grew up with an Italian father and an African American and Choctaw mother, blending the cultures to create a perfect mix. This "mixed life" shaped her unique perspectives on politics, society, education and Black American culture. Planned for 2017 and 2018 is her new album release, tour, speaking engagements, public appearances, and brand partnerships. JOY THE POLITICAL COMMENTATOR "WE NEED TO FOCUS ON BUILD-
ING AMERICA UP NOT TEARING HER DOWN." An unabashed Conservative and Trump supporter, Joy is never shy from sharing her strong views on American politics. From multiple appearances on Fox News to being asked as the distinguished speaker for Tuscon, Arizona's GOP event, Joy has wowed diversified groups with her fresh approach to politics as a commentator and Republican Millennial. She speaks proudly on topics ranging from Trump's policies and actions to the current social climate in pop culture and Hollywood, as well as race relations as a Pro-life, Pro 2A conservative woman of color. She was appointed by Lara Trump to serve on the President's Campaign Advisory Board in 2017. JOY THE HUMANITARIAN "TRUE SERVICE TO OTHERS IS WHAT I HOPE TO BE BEST REMEMBERED FOR." Joy grew up as a Pastor's Kid and her father, the late Reverend Joseph Villa along with her gospel singing mother, Angela Villa taught her to always help the needy and the poor and to strengthen the broken communities of those in need. She is an official ambassador to several charities including disaster relief efforts with MercuryOne.org in which she went to Houston to aid in relief efforts for TX and for Florida, raising 2 Million Dollars through her social media alone. What made you realize that music was your path? At what age did you start singing? I started signing at age five, and it was part of a theatre production, a Christmas play for my kindergarten school. I played an angel. It was here that I realized I loved to perform. I loved Fashion. I made my Mom perfect my angel costume so that it was just right. I was picky with the style, and I knew about fashion even at that age. I knew that there was a right way for things to look. I guess you could say that I was a little diva already. But I knew that performance was my passion. I also knew about branding. I started doing theatre at age ten and kept going from there. I graduated high school at age sixteen and I went to work on Youth Network Television for Comcast, where I cohosted, hosted, produced and directed my own segments for local TV, which
was distributed to 40,000 homes along California’s Central Coast. How would you describe the music that you typically create? I typically create sounds that feel natural and real to me: my music is centered around rock ‘n’ roll because I grew up listening to rock ‘n’ roll and soul music, emotional music. The soul music part comes from my Black American mom, and the rock ‘n’ roll comes from my upbringing in NYC and Los Angeles. I was always attracted to the aesthetic of leather jackets, and hair which is crazy and wild. I just thought, “this is me”. My sounds come from that, I guess, but they also incorporate a bit of a groove world influence, a little bit of electro. I have a remix song from my #1 Billboard album, I Make The Static, and the remix is really cool. It’s all EDM, electro, great for the gym, and working out. One of my biggest influences to create is working out in the gym, and so I made a gym tape basically. Who are your biggest musical influences? Life. I love old school music. I love Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisland and Diana Ross. I like bands like Nirvana and Hole. The Red Hot Chili Peppers happens to be my all-time favorite band. For me it was quite something to see that I topped them on the Billboard music charts in March of last year with my EP, I make The Static. It’s quite a thing to do at such a young age and as an independent artist. My musical influences come from anything which I find interesting, even new music like The Weekend influences me, and how he meshes soulful R&B music with modern instrumentation, with a sort of old school flavor. Of course I love Michael Jackson, and anything classified as classic pop in that sense. What makes your music unique? My lyrics: I’m a songwriter and I write all of my own lyrics myself. My newest album about to drop, I did work with some co-writers to create some of those songs, but I make sure that the lyrics represent how I feel, and are true to my feelings of the moment. It authentically captures ME. My music is genuine; the songs are who I am. I try not to think too hard about, “what if people don’t like this?” or “should people like this?” I make sure it feels right to me, and that it sounds good to my ears and to the people I work with, and if so then I put it out. That’s an important lesson as an 15 BLOUDER
May 2018
Photographer: Thorsten Overgaard
BLOUDER Music
artist. Put your work out there now and then work on the next project, that’s the way to do it. Then your audience can see you grow as an artist. You can never grow if you keep holding back all of your creations, wishing and hoping that some day, you are going to make a perfect work of art while not putting out any records for five years. Recording artists have to put out content, that’s what we do. And we’ve got to play shows. I have played shows in 36 different countries, over a hundred shows. Travelling from Japan to Copenhagen, to New York to London… all these big cities have inspired me, and meeting fans in all of these different places, that really changes a person. Has there been one particular moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of? Hitting number one on iTunes, Amazon and Billboard was the chance of a lifetime for me. Walking the Grammys red carpet and being recognized as an international record artist was the most amazing opportunity of a lifetime. It cemented my name in history and it became a moment for me to keep working towards, post Grammys: what am I going to do next? It pushed me to keep creating. It also was truly gratifying and not just because there was fame involved nor because people knew my name, but because I knew that I Make The Static was a good album. The day that I finished this EP was the day that I knew people were going to see me as an artist, with a real project representative of me, my feelings, my emotions, my thoughts, my sounds. That was one of my proudest moments. What did your family do to encourage you? Who else in your family sings? My family always encouraged me to be whoever I wanted to be, and they felt that God blessed me to be a performing artist. My parents
were my biggest influence and my best friends. They passed away eight years ago. They told me that I can do all things through God, who strengthens me. They gave me the courage and confidence to keep going even when things got hard. They believed in me. I was fortunate to grow up with parents who saw art as something beautiful and aesthetics as something which is good. I also paint and draw, and do fashion designs. I’m an artist at art. How did your life changed after releasing your debut single? My first single Cold Wind, I released in 2011 with Jason Chandler, aka Mr. Skip a Beat. We’re friends to this day. Almost seven years ago we recorded this song, and it was my first musical recording. I had done some TV acting and had a few film roles. These jobs kept trying to make me normal, and boring. I was done with it. I liked to be myself and not give a crap about what people think. Doing music was cathartic for me, it was me. Nobody could control me in that moment. It was my voice. There was a lot of freedom in putting out Cold Win. Even though it didn’t hit the charts big, it opened up my world. I started touring. I played a few music festivals after that, in New York and Seattle. If you could perform anywhere, in the world, where would it have to be? I’d like to perform at a major music festival like SXSW or Cochella. Music festivals are so ingrained in our culture now. The fashion, the style, the celebration. That’s on my to-do list for sure. Do you have more songs or a full length album coming up next? I just released my newest album in January, in time for this year’s Grammys. The title of that album is Home Sweet Home. There is nowhere in the world I would rather me than here in America. I am very patriotic. I love my country. I
also love seeing other countries. Travelling abroad gives me an appreciation for what we have here. Home Sweet Home recently surpassed Taylor Swift on the Amazon pop charts, which was amazing to me. My next album will be a full length album. This will have at least ten tracks, maybe more. I am taking my time with it. This album will reflect where I am now, and the things I have seen, as well as all of the pressures and the propaganda of the modern news cycle. What’s your next big step? My next big step is a fashion line. I am also working on a memoir to tell my story. A lot of people don’t know that I was homeless, and that I gave up a baby for adoption. I was in an abusive relationship and I have been through some trials and tribulations in Hollywood. And none of that has stopped me from being the success that I am today. As an independent artist, I have earned almost half a million dollars from my music and my merchandise last year. I am really proud that I can make money doing what I love. I take it to heart. I will continue to tour and put out new music for everyone. I have a YouTube channel titled Joy Villa where I share my media clips, my music videos, my thoughts on pop culture and perhaps in the future a talk show may even be in the works for the future. I have been talking to several production companies about this! It is all very exciting. I hope to inspire others by being an independent woman who is strong. Everyone can have success that they desire if they give themselves permission to go after it and do not stop even when the going gets tough. Create and get out there. No one can do what you do. Make the space for yourself and push through. I always tell my fans that as well (who I call #JoyTribe), and that’s part of my message: inspiration.
17 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Music Photographer: Thorsten Overgaard
18 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER LIFESTYLE
BLOUDER Lifestyle Relationship
Humanology for Couples
SHARE THE PATH By Jessica J. Lockhart – humanology – www.jessicajlockhart.com/en
Many couples decide to get married or live together but not to share their lives.
the members of the couple run the risk of separating and walking away one from the other.
There is a difference‌
Most people never make that conscious decision. When two people agree or decide to live together, be it in matrimony or not, the couple will only be as strong as the commitment of its parties. If one of the members of the couple is there because "there's nothing better for them" or because "they are fine together," the likelihood of their failing to be together in the longer run is extremely high.
Sharing one's life with another person entails choosing to walk hand in hand or side by side all the time, for as long as the couple remains together. That might cause delays in reaching personal goals and detours from one's own path but guarantees that both members of the couple continue going the same way. Unless there is a conscious commitment to share the path, 20 BLOUDER
May 2018
Strong couples need strong bonds and strong wills. Only when both members choose to make the effort to fully share their lives, no matter what happens, will they both be strong enough to support one another and even wait for one another if life requires them to. The bond will become stronger the longer they walk together and will weaken if stretched too far. Life places many hurdles in front of us as human beings. Unless the couple is committed to overcoming all obstacles together, life will be too much for them. If one of the pair decides to
BLOUDER Lifestyle Relationship move one way to keep on going while the other one moves a different way to sort something out, for example, their directions will set them apart. The further they go, the harder it will be to reunite and continue walking side by side. Most couples don't realize this until they are too far apart. Successful couples need to remain together even if that means having to wait for the other one. They need to move in the same direction even if that means taking detours from one's personal goal. They both need to help the other reach their personal goals, maybe one at a time. Sometimes, one member of the couple needs to follow the other one. That is ok as long as they both agree to go that way and as long as the person doing the following also reaches his or her own goals. Neither of them should sacrifice their goals to the other one. On the contrary, the couple should together guarantee that the goals of both are pursued.
by side. Only by sharing a common path and walking side by side can the couple become stronger every day. If a couple is to last healthy and happy in time, both members need to commit to sharing the same path throughout their lives. Failing to do so will result in two people walking different ways and only coinciding whenever life makes their paths cross. The couple can only grow apart like that. For couples to grow together and become stronger every day, couples need to BE together and sort things out together, learning one from the other and supporting one another. Sit down together and decide where you both want to go. Find a common direction and start walking the path side by side. Whenever a detour appears, take it together.
As long as both members continue reaching their personal goals, the further the couple goes together, the stronger it grows. There is no right or wrong direction for couples. The only two real conditions for couples to grow stronger are for both members to be committed to being together and for both respecting and helping one another. And remember, all paths begin by one first step! Humanology is the discipline that works with and for human beings by combining academic and scientific knowledge with personal and life experience. Discover how it can help you! Enjoy life... ALL of it,
Whenever one needs to stop, the two will stop. Then, continue walking side
21 BLOUDER
May 2018
At The Mercy Of Our Emotions
Perhaps, you getting fired from your job was the Universe attempting to tell you that you are now meant to do something else or perhaps it is a lesson of forgiveness and understanding or perhaps the Universe is steering you down a different path because maybe you are meant to do great things in life by helping people. Maybe, there is another profession that you are meant to do that will help more people than you were able to do in your last profession.
By Nitin Arora Instagram @initinarora
People in this world are like OCEANS, term best describe them is EMOTIONS
What most people don’t realize is that EMOTIONS are real things. The word E-Motion means energy in motion. Emotions become real the second you create them. However, where most people go wrong is they suppress them because they feel no right to have those feelings on an unconscious level. So then they bury these feelings and they sit there and grow waiting to get your full attention. The more you ignore them, the bigger they impact your life because they want you to pay attention to them. If you keep hiding them or suppressing them, well, then they say, “D’accord, I will get your attention soon enough”. People put more emphasis on Physical than the emotional sometimes the strongest among us are the ones, who smiles through silent pain, cried behind closed door and fight battles that nobody cares. So, the key is to feel your emotions completely. If you have to cry for days then cry, you feel like being alone then tell the people in your life you want space. Feel your emotions in their full capacity. They then fade into nothingness because they have been honored, felt and expressed. If you can really master this you can have dramatic shifts as well as your health, career, fi-
22 BLOUDER
May 2018
nances, and relationships in a short period of time. This above all else we get you to optimum health and an amazing life faster than anything else. Life events come into your life to teach you something. The Universe is always steering you where you are meant to be. When you resist and fight to have it your way, well, then you will get zinged because sometimes what your EGO wants is not what the Universe (Creator) has in store for you. It is kind of like getting into a raft and then letting the current of the stream take you for a ride. You don’t have to paddle or apply any effort. The energy of the water is carrying you. However, when you try to go against the stream or go upstream as many people want to do in life, well, you end up exhausted, angry, bitter and completely confused. The key is to LET GO & ENJOY THE RIDE. Essentially illness, struggle and drama is not trusting the process of life and wanting to go against the stream. The magic comes when you can learn to trust the Universe and LET GO, really let go and stop trying to control everything in life.
Can you see this? On a spiritual level, the Universe is always out for your best interest. You must learn to surrender to the infinite intelligence that created this amazing Universe and beyond. Do you think that the Creator would cause you to suffer or steer you down the wrong path? The Creator that created everything you see and the perfection of all of it…do you for one minute think that it would mess your life up by pointing you in the wrong decision? IT IS ALL. So, for rapid emotional healing you must go deep within yourself and ask… ’what am I really feeling’? Then write down what comes up. Let those feelings be there for the moment. Honor those feelings and talk to them and say… “I know you are there…I feel you”. Tell those feelings that it is ok to express themselves. Let whatever comes simply express itself. If it is anger be angry…if it is frustration be frustrated …if it is bitterness then be bitter. Allow the emotions to fully express themselves. Keep your concentration on the center of the feeling. You will find that when you are honest with your feelings and really acknowledge them and express them fully…after, these feelings will fade away. Some words are better spoken into the eyes, some feelings better left unsaid, for every other thought! WORDS ARE EASY TO SAY, BUT EMOTIONS BETRAY THE BEST INTENTIONS. ‘Life Is Short, Eat Dessert First.’
BLOUDER Lifestyle
HEAVEN MUST’VE NEEDED HIM MORE By Dawnae Lundquist | Instagram @yeshelloimcarter
Death has been a reoccurring factor in my life. It’s been so repetitious, I stopped crying at funerals. I never expected to feel anything again— regarding loss, at least. The love of my life was a complete shock to me. For starters, he was a man and typically I date women. He was tall, goofy but handsome. He had a broad stature, thin waste line and a razor-sharp jaw. Scruff covered his chin and cheeks, his lips curved to reveal a nerdy gap-toothed smile… He was a not-so-typical prince charming. RedWing boots and a ball cap. Tan neck, muscles, and grey eyes. I wouldn’t say he came right out of a movie scene, but if I ever daydreamed about a man he was probably the spitting image. Anyway, I fell in love with him. I’m not sure how he caught me so bad, but he did. Him and I could talk for hours about nothing and never get tired of each other. He slowly made his way into my veins and embedded himself in my heart. The thing about love is it’s not always romantic. Our love was made for the big screens of course, but it wasn’t all candle light dinners and exotic sex scenes. We argued, we disagreed, we took breaks, we knew each other’s weak spots. But the thing is, I knew it was love because it never hurt. Love should never be painful, and with him it never was. We had known each other for five years. Five years in which we had grown on each other, figured one another out, and made big plans for our futures. He always told me that we were
made for greater things; and that when he finally got home to me he would show me every single one of them. My promise to him was that I would stay open to him. I wish I could say we made it far enough for him to see me bloom. I wish I could say he remained humble, stayed out of trouble and got to me safely. But heaven must’ve needed him more because on April 7th, 2018, my world changed forever. My best friend was the one to give me the news. As soon as she got into my car, I could feel the tension. It was unbearable. Every minute that passed become a stone in my lungs. Exhaling left me nothing. Empty. I couldn’t take it— everything he made me into. Everything he taught me. Every lesson learned. Was gone. I wondered, how could he tell me that we were made for greater things, and then leave me behind. I was made for a greater thing; him. I found God in him. I found peace in him. I found love and happiness and sanctuary. Oh, it is excruciating. Yesterday was wine, tomorrow is hard liquor. Today, I lost the love of my life again in my sleep. I relive the moment I found out he was gone, I feel the same amount of agonizing pain every time I remind myself his soul has departed. We always talked about dying together. The words she spoke rolled off her tongue in slow motion. It felt like my whole world dropped. The draw in her breath—the hesitation, I already knew something was missing from this world. I felt it before she opened her lips. I lay awake at night and relay every action he committed hours before he was
killed. He had gotten buzzed at a bar when a man pressed him. Pissed him off and got him kicked out. He was angry, he got in his truck and sped off. He was headed around a bend when a truck turned too sharp and clipped his front end. The snow and ice on the road caused him to lose traction… he was hospitalized with severe blunt force trauma and died at 4:58 am the next morning. The other driver never stopped. My days start the same but there is an emptiness inside of them that I long to fill. I can get up, brush my teeth and prepare myself for a world without him. I can smile and laugh, move dance and work. But at the end of the night it’s all the same. My body wears as the sun goes down and when there’s no light shining in I lose myself. I stand in the shower for hours on end just staring at the wall in front of me. I don’t feel like I’m breathing—I don’t feel alive. I only feel like this world is just a silent, dark place without him. If I would’ve known that the love of my life would be gone when I awoke, I wouldn’t have fought with him so often. I would have told him how important he is to me, and how much I love him and how much he saved me. I would have ran toward him when problems arose; not away. I wouldn’t have shut him out. If I would’ve known that our last goodbye kiss would be cold and unresponsive, I would have savored his warmth while I had it. I would’ve made him smile, cry less, love more, hate less. If I’d have known. Yesterday was ‘I love you too’, today I begged his lifeless body to say it back. I wish I would’ve known that death lingers on our breaths. I would have savored him like aged red wine, a finer taste on my tongue… His bitter aftertaste will consume me but it will drive me wild when it fades away. I miss his buzz. I’m writing this for young lovers to know, that trust is valuable and lust is sin. What you have is made in gold… All the time spent sleeping on the couch, too stubborn to say ‘I’m sorry’… Your pride is not bigger than your soul. I hope. I hope for you to swallow that pride. Kiss yours goodnight and hold them through the next sunrise. Be close to yours, be kind to yours. For tomorrow may not come; and all you will have is the ‘I wish’. Heaven needed him more, but this world is very bitter, bland and tasteless without him. 23 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Lifestyle
5 ways to
Love Yourself Better By Jessica J. Lockhart – humanology – www.jessicajlockhart.com/en
A few days ago I was talking to some of my clients during a workshop and discussing possible ways to learn how to love ourselves better. There was so much interest that I decided to share with you the tips I gave them. Feel free to use them all or just some. They have an accumulative effect but can also be used one at a time. Enjoy loving yourself better from now on. Praise yourself Grab a piece of paper and for once, make the effort of defining what you
24 BLOUDER
May 2018
LIKE in yourself, instead of finding whatever it is that you believe needs changing/improving. Identify 3 things you like in each of the following fields: Physical - define 3 things you like in your body, including your face: your hair, your walking style, your height, your posture... anything. Emotional - define 3 traits in you that you like: generous, hard-working, sentimental... anything.
Abilities - define 3 skills you have that you like: good handwriting, well organized, fast learner... anything. Each morning after breakfast and each evening before you go to bed, look at yourself in the mirror, look deeply into your eyes, and remind you of those 9 things you like in yourself. Praise them. Praise yourself for them. Remember that there are AT LEAST 9 things in you that you like. Celebrate those 9 things.
BLOUDER Lifestyle It might be hard, especially at the beginning, because we're so used to doing just the opposite and looking for flaws, mistakes and the like. But do try. Give yourself a break and be fair; stop JUST looking for the bad in you and start looking for, and praising, the GOOD. Identify and improve your model. First of all, ask yourself who your teacher was. Who taught you how to love yourself as a human being? Did you learn it from your parents? From a friend? Most of us learn by imitating our role models, even subconsciously. Once you identify who you learned it from, ask yourself if you really like the way that person loved him or herself. Is that the type of love you want to give yourself? If it is, can you improve it? If it isn't, can't you find a better role model to imitate? The role model doesn't need to be a person you know but could also be a character in a book or movie. Yes, I know they might not be "real" but what they're portraying is the type of love you want to give yourself. Focus on that and learn what they do to transmit that love. At the end of the day, you just want to learn how to do it better. Change your "yes buts" for "yes ands" If you're like many others, each time somebody praises you, your mind immediately looks for some kind of fault in you to counteract the positive comment that you may receive. For example, someone says something nice about your hair or clothes today; your mind instantly reminds you of the... "yes, but even if that looks ok today, it's usually horrible," or "yes, but look at my nose, even the best haircut can't hide that ugly thing on my face," or something of the kind. Sounds familiar? I challenge you to turn your "yes buts" the opposite way around. Each time you hear OR THINK something negative about yourself, I want you to make the effort to consciously say, think or repeat a "yes but" in a positive sense. Example: you think, "gosh, my hair looks awful today!" (which would normally make you feel bad for some more time after the thought happened). This time I want you to "yes and" it in a positive way... "yes, and that means I need to try that new hat on," or "yes, and that's why I will do it in a different style today" or anything that ends the thinking process on a positive note.
Our brains follow established paths. Let's create some new ones for ourselves. Value your actions. If you started applying the first recommendation, you should already be valuing 9 positive things in you. Now I want you to feel grateful as well. Every evening, before going to sleep, think of 3 things you did right. Value your work or your contribution. Celebrate having done those good deeds and congratulate yourself for them. Feel grateful for everything that led you to being able to do what you did. Feel grateful for the people who made it possible; feel grateful for your skills, knowledge or abilities; feel grateful for having been there when you needed to; feel grateful for having decided to do whatever it is that you did... Feel grateful for being you. Gratitude is a very powerful feeling that makes our brains release dopamine, which reduces anxiety, improves our mood and our levels of energy and motivation. Give yourself hope. Another little but powerful tool to love oneself better is giving ourselves the gift of hope. At night, after feeling grateful for what you did, give yourself permission to dream. And I don't mean sleeping. Before you actually go to sleep but once you're already in bed, I want you to daydream. The only rule is that the dreams are positive. If a negative thought tries to enter your mind, make the conscious effort to replace it
and go back to your happy reverie. Imagine the good things that will happen to you tomorrow or this week. Visualize the dreams. Imagine them in great detail and have the fun of an artist creating a wonderland. Let yourself enjoy the happy feeling; after all, it's only in your imagination. But... your brain doesn't know it! When we make the conscious effort to imagine and try and experience happy feelings, our brain believes the "dream" and starts releasing chemical products that make us feel good: endorphins, oxytocin and the like. As a result, our bodies relax and not only can we actually sleep better, which is an important gift in itself, but once again, our brain discovers new paths into happier feelings. Consider this time a gift to yourself. We're not daydreaming to create a new reality; this is not the power we're trying to use. The goal is to have a nice, hopeful time to let our bodies and minds unwind and make us feel good about life. These five simple exercises will gradually help you love yourself better. By loving yourself better, you will start having better feelings about yourself and, as a result, about the world. You'll soon start feeling better in general. After all, we can't change the world unless we change ourselves first. Choose the type of life you want to live. Choose to love yourself first and others will see the love in you. Enjoy life, ALL of it,
25 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Lifestyle
MUSIC MAKES IT BETTER By Sana Hussain | Instagram @sanahussain_._
Music, when you hear the word music we remember our favorite music, favorite song, moments related to music and all. Music, in our lives has great effect. The choice of music says a lot about ourselves and not just this, it also tells what we are going through, and our mental state or thoughts we have in our minds. In our daily lives, when we be upset we consider sad music and in happy times, we generally consider happy music and When we get tired, we prefer relaxing music. We’ve all felt strong emotions listening to music. Sad songs may bring us to tears, while joyful music can make us feel euphoric. While melancholy music can move us in fascinating ways, there is power in that second category, too. Indeed, one way music may make us better people are by making us hap-
26 BLOUDER
May 2018
pier—and therefore more likely to give of ourselves. Indeed, listening to these songs may make us less aggressive, more accepting of differences, and even—yes, for real— more likely to respect women. It’s not just listening to music that can change our behavior for the better—moving to music helps, too. But it’s not the movement of dancing itself that inspires kindness and helpfulness (although it might contribute). Instead, it’s the way music helps to synchronize us with other people. You must be wondering how music Boosts Brain Chemicals. Well, one of the ways music affects mood is by stimulating the formation of certain brain chemicals. Listening to music increases the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Dopamine is the brain’s “motivation molecule” and an integral part of the pleasure-reward system. It’s the same brain chemical responsible for the feel-good states obtained from eating chocolate, orgasm, and runner’s high. Interestingly, you can further increase dopamine by listening to a playlist that’s being shuffled. When one of your favorite songs unexpectedly comes up, it triggers a small dopamine boost. Even the studies reveal that the music makes you happier and sad, it can inspire, and it can knock you down. Be careful with your choice. And Let your heartbeats beat on every single beat of music.
LOUDER click out
Featuring
OLGA
BAZHUTOVA
Click Out LOUDER
OLGA BAZHUTOVA What does photography mean to you? Photography for me is the beauty frozen in time, the memory of lovely moments of life. How did you develop an interest in photography? Photography is my hobby since I was 23. How do you as a photographer make sure that the thing, person or landscape you want to shoot looks the way you want it to? It depends… for instance, the weather is often unpredictable and I adapt to the landscape in the process of photog-
28 BLOUDER
May 2018
raphy. And vice versa I always thoroughly prepare the general look of the model - clothes, makeup, hair. And horses always look perfect. From your point of view, what makes a good picture? I think the good picture's based on the proper light. What were the challenges that you most commonly faced and how did you deal with them? One of the examples - the bright shining of the sun and the snowfall at winter shooting. In such moments I always search for the shelter in shadow of forest.
How important is it for a photographer to “connect” with his subjects to bring out their true self? It's most important for me to show the relations between human and horse. I can add that there's a special atmosphere between the owner and his horse. It's all about faith, trust and understanding... Since the photography techniques and equipment change quickly, it is important to stay up-to-date. What do you do to always keep up with the times? I use Canon Mark 2 camera and Canon 70-200 2.8 L lens only. I haven't changed my photo equipment for a long time because I'm absolutely satisfied with the quality of the images. Nowadays almost everyone has access to devices with which it is possible to take pictures. What do you think is the difference between a professional photographer and any other hobby
Click Out LOUDER photographer? I think that the professional photographer should possess technical settings and basics of the photography, also he should know how to work with light.
Model: Principal Dancer of Moscow Stanislavsky Music Theatre @anastasia_limenko Photographer: Olga Bazhutova
Which one is your favorite lens and why do you prefer it? My favorite one is Canon 70-200 2.8 L. I think it's quite convenient for horse shooting. Which photographers influenced you, and how did they influence your thinking, photographing, and career path? My favorite Russians photographers are Margarita Kareva and Elena Shumilova. In general I prefer beautiful romantic pictures so that's why I like their style. What, in your opinion, is most important to consider while shooting portrait pictures? Can you walk us through the actual process that you use to set up a portrait? The most important in shooting portrait pictures is preparing of the general image of the model, proper light and the color scheme. When I set up a portrait shooting I pick up all the details by myself including the coat color and breed of the horse. Which editing software do you usually use? As how good would you describe your skills in that software? I use different editing software. In my opinion I'm quite good in it. Exactly what it is you want to say with your photographs, and how do you actually get your photographs to do that? Đ?s long as I remember, I've been always "addicted" with horses. Đ?lso I'm engaged in equestrian sport. In my opinion there is a harmony between the gracefulness of horse and the beauty of a woman and I try to embody it in my photographs. Together horse and woman create the atmosphere of magic and mystery in the shot. In your free time, what kind of pictures do you like to shoot and which ones do you avoid? I only take pictures of a horse with a human, that's what I like. 29 BLOUDER
May 2018
Photographer: Olga Bazhutova
Photographer: Olga Bazhutova
BLOUDER HEALTH & FITNESS
Featuring
DREW
MENNING Photographer: Scott Crushman
Photographer: Scott Crushman
I grew up on a small farm in north central Iowa outside of a town called Hampton. Besides farming we raised buffalo, ostriches, emu, pigs, cows, chickens, ducks, and turkeys. You name it we probably raised it. It's been an unusual path I’ve taken in my life to get here. I grew up as a small-town farmer, became a major league gamer in high school, and then in college I spent summers living and studying abroad in China, Rome, and other parts of Europe. Around this time I started competing in bodybuilding and strongman shows. After college, I found a job with Pioneer (the largest agriculture seed company in the world). I wanted to stay immersed in physical fitness so I created my online personal training business called DrewLife. This led to a career in modeling and being signed by The Peak Agency. I recently competed in the largest modeling and talent convention in the world, the IMrd TA in Los Angeles. I placed 3 overall in my division, very high for my first time and the number of competitors. I have so many future plans. I just wish there was more time in the day! Next up is a relocation to Los Angeles, California to pursue a full-time modeling and acting career!
Drew
Menning
How would you define your personal style? Classy with a touch of boldness. I like to keep it simple and elegant but I always love to add a touch of something to make it pop.
How did get into fitness? What workout do you do to get that amazing body? I got into fitness after High School. I was tired of getting bullied and picked on, so in college instead of drinking and partying I choose to spend my time getting in shape. When I broke away from the mold of my typical classmates and did something different, that’s when I fell in love with Fitness. Where do you pull your inspiration from? Definitely my family, my dad and grandpas are some of the hardest workers I know. I’ve always wanted to be like them in that aspect. Besides that, The Rock is my favorite celebrity inspiration. What does your current training look like? What do you like most about it? Currently I’m training every day for about 3 hours for a couple photoshoots coming up. I love how lean I can get when I put in that much work, it really helps my photos to stand out. What does your nutrition (eating) plan look like? Currently I am cutting so I’m eating 7-8 small meals a day, lots of meat and veggies with some fruit around workout time.
Photographer: Scott Crushman
Photographer: Scott Crushman
BLOUDER Health & Fitness Photographer: Scott Crushman
What would you recommend for a quick 20 to 30 minute workout? How long should people rest in between workouts? For a short quick workout stick to compound movements. Squat, deadlift, and bench those three exercises will give you the most bang for your buck if you only have a little time. What are some simple work outs that people can do at home who don’t have access to equipment or can’t afford gym membership? Great workouts can still be done without a gym and equipment. Focus on bodyweight exercises, squat, lunges, pushups, pullups, and planks are a few great exercises for home. What are the best types of exercises for getting the fastest results in the shortest period of time? Definitely the big three lifts: squat, deadlift, and bench. These compound lifts utilize lots of muscle groups and will get you the best results in a smalltime period. What made you start DrewLife? 38 BLOUDER
May 2018
I really enjoy helping people live a healthier lifestyle. For me there is no greater feeling then helping others feel happy and healthy in their own skin, because that’s something I’ve always struggled with. I started in the fitness industry from complete ground zero with no program to follow, no guidance, and no support. Everything I built was from the ground up by actual practical application in the gym for 7 years and actual university research for 5 years at Iowa State University. So DrewLife was created to give my clients the knowledge, guidance, support, and actionable plan to success. Something that wish I had when I started working out. What kind of training program does DrewLife offer? Is it highly structured or more informational? Both, DrewLife is tailored to the needs of the client and everyone is different. I create plans that are highly informative with a clear-cut path to success for each person. Everyone has a different goal, and different obstacles hindering their success. I take all this into account to create an adaptable fitness and nutrition
plan. The fitness plan includes exercises, amount of repetitions, workout intensity techniques, and even exercise videos explaining proper form. No two workouts are ever the same, every single workout is a different experience. Nutritional programs are designed with your favorite foods in mind including what foods to eat, how much to eat, and when to eat. And again, this is all tailored to each client’s lifestyle, daily demands, work schedule, allergies, body type and metabolism. Name five things you can’t live without? Ice Cream, Xbox, Gym, Music, and Love. What are your future plans? I have so many future plans for DrewLife, my modeling career, side projects, travel destinations, but the biggest plan coming up soon is my relocation from small town Iowa to Los Angeles, California to purse my modeling and acting career.
BLOUDER
SPOTLIGHT Featuring
BRANDON STANSELL
Photographer: The Riker Brothers
Photographer: The Riker Brothers
BRANDON STANSELL
BLOUDER Spotlight Photographer: The Riker Brothers
Even though he grew up in and around Nashville, Brandon Stansell was born with Country Music in his veins, but it wasn’t until after transplanting to L.A. that he started developing his own brand of 'California Country.' Tapping his Tennessee roots with the fresh air sound of his West Coast home, Brandon released his first full-length album Slow Down in October 2017. His is a bold new voice in the genre, as comfortable making you tap your foot as shed a tear - a singer songwriter with something to say, and a voice to remember. What made you realize that music was your path? At what age did you start singing? I started singing when I was 6 yearsold. I remember listening to Amy Grant’s Baby Baby and knowing I wanted to be a singer. Every time I hear the intro of that song I am reminded of all the initial passions I had for
the career I am pursuing and it completely reenergizes me. How would you describe the music that you typically create? Everything I write is based on personal experience for the most part, so lyrically the songs are deeply personal to me. Musically, I pull from an array of genre’s although I most inspired by my fellow Country artists. I also tend to approach my music in a more laid back way which has inspired what I call my “California Country” sound. Who are your biggest musical influences? Reba, Dolly Parton, Tracy Chapman, Brandi Carlie, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Lee Ann Womack, Years & Years. What makes your music unique? How long does it usually take you to write a song? I can usually start and finish a song in 4 -6 hours, but I have also tinkered with songs for months before “completing”
them. One of my best friends asked me to write something for his wedding, and I spent a good two months writing his song. I found it’s harder for me to write for someone else - much harder than writing about my own personal experiences which comes easy. What do you find most inspires you to write a song? I am most inspired to write when emotions are running high - heartbreak, first love, etc. BUT no one wants to live in a constant state of heightened emotions just to get a good song, so I have also started taking inspiration from other things - friends, the news, etc. Has there been one particular moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of? In the Fall of this year, we’ll be releasing a video for my new single Hometown which is an autobiographical song I wrote for my album that was released in October of this past year. Filming this video was one of the 41 BLOUDER
May 2018
Photographer: The Riker Brothers
Photographer: The Riker Brothers
BLOUDER Spotlight most rewarding experiences because I see this piece as a tool that has the potential to make a positive impact on both the LGBTQ and straight communities. I grew up in small-town Tennessee, gay and a lover of Country music. I thought I was the only person like me in the entire world and that made for a very lonely childhood. I don’t want anyone else to ever feel that way and I think this video will bring comfort and hopefully some inspiration to people like me - especially in the South. What did your family do to encourage you? Who else in your family sings? My parents and siblings were always my biggest supporters. No one believed in me more than they did. I never knew either of my parents to be musical but I knew they both had an affinity for pop music of the 60’s and 70’s. They had a pretty big vinyl collection (that I eventually stole from them) and it was always amazing to me they could remember words to songs they hadn’t heard in decades. My Dad also sang in the church choir! I guess I just assumed he could sing, but my choir director laughingly told me one night my Dad was tone deaf, so… I have no idea where I got the singing bug. How did you come out to your family? What was their reaction? I was 22. I fell in love with a guy at college. I went to a private Christian university in Nashville and I tried hiding my relationship and sexuality with everyone including my family, but after a while it became too hard to lie about someone I had grown to love so much. I told my family I was gay and dating someone and things soon fell apart after that. I don’t blame them entirely for their reactions - they are, after all, a product of their environment which is not accepting of the LGBTQ community. I never thought they reacted poorly out of any kind of hatred for me, but rather ignorance and inexperience with the situation. My family didn’t know anyone who was LGBTQ, so I think it made it even harder for them to suddenly realize their son/brother was gay. How was your life changed after coming out? I’m better than I was before. I had al-
46 BLOUDER
May 2018
ways hidden my sexuality because I was taught it was a sin and something to be shamed. Coming out forced me to suddenly become a completely independent person. Not only did I lose the emotional support of my family but I also lost the financial security blanket I had grown so accustomed to. Though what I went through was painful, it made me who I am today and that is someone I am deeply proud of. Being gay is a very small part of who I am, but after all these years I have come to realize it’s one of my favorites parts. Do you have more songs or a full length album coming up next? I am releasing a single for the Summer! It’s upbeat, fun and all frills. If you could perform anywhere, in the world, where would it have to be? The Grand Ole Opry What’s your gym routine? How do you manage to stay fit while writing and recording? Well, I have a great friend workout partner who keeps me accountable. We follow the MisFit Athletics training program which keeps us in the gym 5 days a week for a couple hours at a time. I also just love being there it’s hard work, but it’s my time to unwind and just enjoy being with friends. What is the bad habit that no one knows about you? Gin. What’s your next big step? Touring! My goal is to be the opener on the next Women Of Country Tour! Still figuring out how to make that happen… What advice do you give to someone who is struggling with his/her sexuality? There is no one like you in the entire world and that is a good thing. Don’t be afraid to be exactly who you are. Life is short, so don’t waste one more minute pretending to be something you’re not. I’m not saying it will be easy or that everything will work out but I hope we’d all agree that it’s better to loose for what we are than win for what we ain’t.
BLOUDER art
Featuring
JACK
STORMS
BLOUDER Art
JACK STORMS Incredibly talented and skilled beyond all reason, Jack Storms was destined to be someone truly amazing. Both a tremendous athlete and a motivated student growing up in New Hampshire, it wasn’t until later in life that Jack discovered his passion for contemporary art. At 30 years old, Jack graduated Plymouth State University with a BA in Art focusing primarily on studio production. It was during his junior year at PSU that he stumbled upon a nearby studio of a glass artist producing a rare style of glass artwork by combining lead crystal and dichroic glass using a cold-glass process. Jack worked alongside this fellow artist for over a year to learn every component and facet of this incredibly challenging and unusual art 48 BLOUDER
May 2018
form. He quickly discovered that the process itself was extremely intense, time consuming and physically demanding but no obstacle was going to get in the way of his dreams. Jack Storms was eventually a strong enough sculptor to branch out on his own in 2004 to open StormWorks Studio. Both challenged and inspired by having been told that his vision was impossible, one of Jack’s first major accomplishments as an independent glass artist was to invent and design a coldworking lathe that offers him the ability to turn glass and sculpt shapes with curves and details like one would produce from a wooden medium. Early memories of studying his father’s
craftsmanship as he worked for hours in his own studio with a wooden lathe provided him with the blueprint of his vision, and his intense drive and deeply embedded passion as a glass artist combined with the inspiration that came from the idea of pioneering new trails in the world of fine art, motivated him toward this remarkable accomplishment. The intense cold-glass process which can take up to 48 weeks for each contemporary glass sculpture to come to life begins at the heart of the design, by creating a core of lead crystal which is cut, polished and laminated creating reflective mirrors. When wrapped in optical glass, the refraction of light as it
BLOUDER Art
passes through the glass creates rainbows of hypnotic color. The drawn out process of repetitive cutting, grinding and polishing requires intense passion, rigid self-discipline, and more blood sweat and tears than any artisan could wrap their mind around. The results are mind-boggling works of contemporary glass art. Drawing inspiration from both his heart and his mind when conceiving his artistic designs, at the heart of each lead crystal sculpture by Jack Storms lays the theory of Fibonacci, a great mathematician that articulated the natural math seen in nature. Natural beauty is created, not manufactured. From the repetition florets of a flower to the scales of a pineapples skin, Fibonacci numbers are found in the pattern of growth of every living thing in nature.
Fantastik ViviOvo D’oro: The “ViviOvo” Collection is one of Storms’ only muse inspired sculptures and this version, Fan-tastik ViviOvo D’Oro contains touches of exquisite gold glass. The artist modeled the new design from the “Golden Mean Egg”. Using natural geometry, he set to shape and polish. The result is a form that is as beautiful as it is difficult to create. The Fantastik Deluxe crosscut core made with a cold glass technique developed by Jack Storms. It takes the artist 18 to 24 months to finish each one of these unique pieces of fine art. There are no straight lines within this piece whatsoever. The results? Think about a golden egg, now think about a diamond, now put them to-gether in one piece – right there you have the Fantastik ViviOvo D’Oro.
49 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Art
Signature Collection Pieces: Each one of Jack Storms cold glass sculptures starts at the core, the artist cuts, grinds, polishes and laminates together the glass literally hundreds of times until he can get the core design he is looking for. Jack is known for using the theory of Fibonacci as reference for all of his glass designs of contemporary art. He then encases the core into optical crystal and hand sculpts each piece to shape. Each one of his glass sculptures takes from six to twenty four weeks to create and all of his pieces are original pieces of fine art. All of Jack Storms glass sculptures are done cold. There is no heat involved in the process whatsoever. The materials used on each one of Jack Storms’ glass sculptures are 32% optical lead crystal, optical crystal and dichroic glass.
50 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Art
Magik Collections: Cold glass artist Jack Storms takes this universally approachable form, the cube, to the next level. The Magik Chroma Cube features a very intricate triple cut core making it a cube sculpture like nothing you’ve ever seen before. The Magik Chroma Cube refracts, reflects and casts colored shadows. It takes the artist 12 months to finish each one of these unique pieces of fine art.
51 BLOUDER
May 2018
BLOUDER Art
Owain Collections: Jack Storms’ newest masterpiece is a tribute to the undeniable love he has for his son Owen. In addition to bearing his son’s name, the Owain Collection marks the first collaboration between father and son. Like his father, Owen is naturally drawn to geometric artistry, making this co-creation the perfect partnership! One day, while playing with his father, Owen began stacking and arranging building blocks into various patterns and formations. Intuitively, Owen suggested that his father replicate his creations using glass. Jack, initially amused by his young one’s suggestion, was suddenly struck with inspiration when he realized that his son had just birthed his newest cold glass sculpture collection! Thanks to Owen, Jack now shares labors of love with both his wife Vivian and son, with their respective ViviOvo and Owain collections. Labors of love yield the very best manifestations. This is more than undeniable when learning about the inspiration behind the Owain Collection.
52 BLOUDER
May 2018
LOUDER style out
Top: Daniela Drei Bottom: Daniela Drei Photographer: Fabrizio Magoni fabriziomagoni.com
Style Out LOUDER
21 WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR LOOK By Soniya Sethi | Instagram @soniyasethi
There is no doubt that 21st century is extremely advanced and keep bringing new innovative changes, related to almost every field and it will help the human being to raise the standard of their lives. Development in every part is necessary and is greatly influencing people to cope with these changes. In earlier times people were not aware of that much accessories, products, clothes and also weren't interested in investing their time in this entire thing. They were happy in how they look, talk and walk. But things are changed now. Competition has been increased. Now people try to copy others and much busy in enhancing their looks. So let us 54 BLOUDER
May 2018
understand how one can change their looks and present themselves more beautifully. 1.Update your everyday hairstyle: Eventually we get sick of wearing the same exact hairstyle day in and day out which have similar effect. Whether your hair is short or long, curly or straight, or anywhere in between, you can find cute, easy hairstyles to change up your look no matter where you’re going! 2. 2. Wardrobe collection: Take an assessment of your existing wardrobe. Your wardrobe must vary with formal wear, casual wear, party wear, outfits for spe-
cial occasions. Having an organized closet will help you find your favorite pieces quicker and make getting dressed each morning easier. 3. DIY: This is the best way to update your current look. You often see clothes on the runway which can be modified completely that gives slight stylish touch to our personalities. 4. Overlook fashion trends : First impressions are vital ,what you wear creates a perception of the kind of person you are ,even before you utter a single word and baffle them with your wisdom. So its very important to understand what is todays or upcoming fash-
Style Out LOUDER ion. 5. Add statement accessories: Another easy way to update your look is to use trendy accessories. Inexpensive, trendright jewelry and shoes can totally enhance your look without breaking your budget. 6. Mix and match: It allows you to wear different and exciting looks even when you have a small or limited wardrobe. There are some things that never go out of style and some things that might be back in style. Some creativity and loads of common sense can multiply your dressing options by manifold without spending too much money. 7. Get some sleep: Getting enough shut -eye is so important. It affects everything from concentration to mood, weight and even our ability to fight off disease. Peaceful sleep will help you to look fresh and add some pinch of glory on your face. 8. Try a new trend: Keeping up with the trends can be expensive, so be selective. Choose classic pieces which will last a few seasons.
12. Re-evaluate makeup: And it is obvious one, your makeup should be current so that it goes a long way towards updating your look. 13. Develop a uniform: When you don’t have the time or the energy for thinking about putting new outfits together every day then it is perfectly acceptable to develop a “uniform”. Whatever works for you, your style and your life, figure out looks that works and then just wear variations on that look. 14. Fitted jacket: Again, depending on your lifestyle, this could be a blazer for work or a khaki jacket to go with your jeans. But get something that fits well and gives you some structure. 15. Hit the Web: Online shopping is great, especially if you know certain brands that fit your body well. 16. Document Your Best Looks: Whether in a journal, on your phone, or file in your laptop, make note about or take pictures of outfits you love. In a busy morning, it’s easy to forget a fabulous combination you put together on a particularly good day. Having a record
of great looks ensures you’ll always feel great about yourself when you step outside your door! 17. Play with Color: Hair color, that is. Changing your hair color can be a big step, but can also totally transform your look for the better. 18. Determine your go-to-colors: Wearing the right hues for your individual skin tone can make you look more awake and approachable. 19. Always wear your best: Life is short, so don't save your favorite pieces for special occasions. Go ahead and wear them. 20. Wear glasses: Make sure your glasses fit properly and aren't sliding down your nose. You don't want to be playing with them all the time. 21. Be you: As cliché as it may seem, the last and the most important thing is to be yourself – no matter where or what you’re wearing. Being yourself is more important than anything else. You just need to do is dress your best self, be comfortable and be you! And you will look perfect.
9. Jazz up your shoe collection: There are certain basic shoes that are a must have for any outfit. Make sure in your wardrobe you have: a pair of heels, sneakers, ballet pumps, boots and plimsolls. 10. Go for shopping: Don’t confuse stylish with trendy. Go for something which is current yet stylish. 11. Handbags: Make sure it’s large enough to hold everything you need. A beat-up handbag that is bursting at the seams never makes a good fashion statement and eventually degrades your look. 55 BLOUDER
May 2018
Daniela Drei is launching a glamorous line for an ultra-feminine look. The immaculate attention paid to the detailing of the products, such as buttonholes and hems finished using traditional craftsmanship techniques, personalised prints, and elegant embroidery, is the result of a brand that is famous for its intense ability to seduce. These exclusive details make Daniela Drei’s garments stand out as unique items for the modern woman.
Top: Daniela Drei Bottom: Daniela Drei Photographer: Fabrizio Magoni fabriziomagoni.com
Style Out LOUDER
Top: Daniela Drei Bottom: Daniela Drei Photographer: Fabrizio Magoni fabriziomagoni.com
58 BLOUDER
May 2018
Top: Daniela Drei Bottom: Daniela Drei Photographer: Fabrizio Magoni fabriziomagoni.com
Top: Daniela Drei Bottom: Daniela Drei Photographer: Fabrizio Magoni fabriziomagoni.com
BLOUDER MAY 2018