Nov/Dec 2014

NOVEMBER 2014

IgorKondrya A Photo Essay

Film:

Matt Salvo The Evolution of an Ambitious Filmmaker

INSIDE:

Models vs Photographers

&

Demystifying Wine for the Holidays

ROB-O Sugar Skull Artist

Delicious Day of the Dead Traditions

YOUR OWN PERSONAL SOMMELIER

ADAM@YOUROWN PERSONAL SOMMELIER.COM 512.416.1365

Your own personal sommelier is your expert on all things related to wine, beer & spirits. Available for private or corporate wine & mixology events that are informative & entertaining. We also design wine, beer & cocktail programs for restaurant & retail as well as providing private cellar management & a variety of other services.

Inside INDIEblush NOV-DEC:

10

Cover Stories: IGOR KONDRYA

Christina Marie explores 20 Questions with a photographer who knows what he wants and shoots it.

ROB-O, Sugar Skull Artist

56

By David Alvarez

70

Features

From Contributors: Oscar Benjamin: Matt Salvo 67: Kimberly Lucero:

Delicious Day of the Dead Traditions

80: Shane Maus: Thank you for your readership!

Frankie Vanity, Costume Designer on the Rise

All stories and reprints used with permission.

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content used for sample purposes only. Please direct any questions or comments to our website above.

Editor/Co-Founder: Christina Marie Co-Founder: Shane Maus Staff photography: Quroscuro Proofing: Kimberly Lucero

In every issue:

Fashion: 75 Models VS. Photographers Photo Contest winner. First second and third.

Wine/Travel:

46: Adam Downey: Demystifying Wine for the Holidays 80: Regional Wine Maps

About Our Contributors:

Shane Maus, Co-Founder

Shane, an entrepreneur, began educating himself early on about start-ups and investing.

Working as an iPhone tech at Apple, he spent breaks thinking up crazy app ideas & TV Shows and quickly became known as “The Idea Guy”. A few years later he upgraded his camera to a 5D Mark II to start a video promotion business. Shane then worked on a show with Christina Marie called, “SacFaddy”. They worked so well together, Christina and Shane decided to launch INDIEblush Magazine and rebrand SacFaddy as “INDIEfun.TV” and the journey continues...

Christina Marie, Co-Founder, Editor-in-Chief:

Christina Marie is a Writer, Producer, Director, and Actress with over 30 years experience in the entertainment business. She obtained her Theater Arts degree from CSU Sacramento with a Minor in Music. After working on the stage for several professional theaters, she converted to film. She is driven by the INDEPENDENT spirit in film, fashion, wine & food, and the outdoors. When not working, Christina enjoys camping, crafting, regional wine tours, day spas, and spending time with her extended family.

Adrielyn Christi, Fashion Writer:

Adrielyn is an obsessed fashion, beauty and music lover. To her, fashion is art, expressed through each designer’s creation. She loves everything about the industry from the clothing to the shoes to the accessories -which is why she loves writing about it. She’s experienced some physical and emotional pain from a car accident several years ago, but has found that writing is now her therapy. This journey helps her meet the most amazing people in the publishing, blogging and photography world. Because of them, she has the opportunity to share her thoughts and experience a whole new different side of life.

Kimberly Lucero, Proofing:

Kimberly likes reading, writing, and long walks on the beach. She enjoys candle lit dinners, piña colada’s, and getting caught in the rain. Art, music, and theatre are top of the list, but she also enjoys cooking, painting, and sensual massages. Snuggling by the fire under a warm blanket and watching old love movies (while proof-reading, of course), Kimberly is a true romantic! The fact that she is “Librarian Hot” is a side effect of proofing INDIEblush.

David Alvarez, Writer, Photographer (Freelance):

David was born in Los Angeles but has made Sacramento his home for the past 30 years.

Some of the events he’s covered this year include Sacramento Fashion Week, Martin Luther King & Cesar Chavez annual marches, The Pacific Rim, Sacramento Horror Film Festival, SacAnime, Sac-Con, Wizard World, Fiesta en la Calle, Concerts in the Park and TBD Fest.

Photography is his passion and he enjoys showcasing the talent, places and events Sacramento has to offer. David loves interviewing local artists, models, designers, producers and promoters whose passionate works always make for a good story.

Rilma Marvel, Fashion Writer, Model & Talent Agent

Rilma always had a passion for fashion & writing. She wrote her first book at age nine. At seventeen Rilma had a poem, “Love”, published in a poetry book and the positive accolades she got fueled her creative desires. In March of 2010, Marvel Model and Talent Agency was born. Unable to give up writing, she achieved her Bachelor’s Degree & submitted a writing sample to Fashion Xchange Magazine where she was picked up as a contributing fashion writer. She concurrently writes for INDIEblush Magazine and does INDIEblush events.

Adam Downey, Your Personal Sommelier

Adam is an expert on wine, beer and mixology. Originally from Austin, Texas his passion for the good stuff has taken him all over the U.S. and most recently The Peoples Republic of China. He really loves a good quote, nachos and talking too much.

You can read more at yourownpersonalsommelier.com

QUROSCURO

With over 30 years of combined photography experience and the creative minds of Darren Paquette, Craig Fouts and Jessie Rand we work to create a high end finished product ready for print in magazines, billboards and all other advertisement needs.

Oscar Benjamin, Music & Film Industry Writer/Photographer:

Oscar has always lived with the idea that an individual should always pursue their dreams and interests to the fullest that they can. This philosophy shaped Oscar’s career and positions he’s held over the span of his adventurous life. Oscar’s been a mobile disk jockey, a truck driver, a commissioned artist, and more. He relishes his current life as a professional photographer and writer who’s documented a number of high profile motion pictures, TVshows, red carpet premieres and numerous other entertainment events. He continues to enliven IndieBLUSH with his first hand tales of the entertainment industry.

Do YOU have what it takes to make us INDIEblush?

Send us a sample of your writing, photography, video, or join the sales team!

INDIEblush aims to be a competitive magazine in the INDIE market. We need writers who are PASSIONATE about writing and all that is INDIE; photographers who have a unique eye with a knowledge of commercial production; and videographers who get 1 minute journalism. Is that you? email us at indieblush@gmail.com.

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ut: www.indiefun.tv

Coming to a gallery near you

A CMmedia/Quroscuro Collaboration Capsity Gallery Debut December 2014

IGOR KONDRYA &

20Q

I had the distinct pleasure of working with Igor recently, and the first thing I noticed was how he captured the essence of people. He approached me and said, “Here. Sit here, and let the breeze place some hair over your face.� Being an obedient model, I did as I was told, and the result was amazing. He snapped off a couple of shots and was done. It was instantly communicated that he had a spontaneous eye and an economy of data card usage. He was definitley not a trigger-happy free-spirit. Igor knows what he wants, and he takes it (see result at the end of this article).

I now give you 20 Questions with Igor Kondrya. ~Christina Marie

Model Nikaya Southworth, Hair: Allure Salon, Make up: Jasmine Cardenas

1.

Igor, What kind of photographer are you-do you specialize?

Mostly, I find my self photographing portraiture, weddings, and fashion. Also, some sports like BMX racing to soccer on big fields. Like most photographers, I’m always looking for that next unique shot, while finding ways to stay busy. I try to bring a fashion style into my photography. I’m always looking to add that something different in every image.

Model/MUAH: Mariya Sevchuk

2. Who is your inspiration when shooting?

My inspiration comes from my surroundings and having a craving for creating a new idea, a new look, or something I haven’t seen or captured. Music, fashion, and art are some things that always drive the world forward. Being part of it is a great inspiration in itself. To be able to share and interact with people you’ve never met...that right there is pretty awesome.

3.What is your favorite format to work in?

Digital, full frame, camera. I have zero experience with film photography. Most of my photography is shot in RAW, it allows me to work more with the images, adjust exposure and few other things.

Model: Alesya Corsetti, Designer: Vasily Vein, MUA: Hairstyling: Jamie Huang

Model: Yulia

Igor & Tatyana Zhuk

4. Favorite photo editing software and why?

Mostly, I find my self using Lightroom 4 & Aperture3 -adjusting

Alex & Yuliya Vakulin

colors, sharpness, adding filters, or my favorite thing: they allow me to build my own presets. I use Adobe CS5 mostly for retouching, removing things out from pictures or paint.

Vitaliy & Victoria Kondrya

5. Favorite camera

I use a lot of my F2.8 70200mm lens because of its depth of field (DOF). On a photo shoot, I like to use all my lenses that I have. They all have something different about them. The way they Nikon. I’m a nikon user. I love it for its speed and high pass light through, the crop, ISO clarity. Those are the two the depth of filed, sharpness, speed affects the shot. main reasons I went with a Nikon. It’s a fast camera and Every lens has its purpose. reliable in any conditions.

gear for stills/ motion pictures and why?

Vova, Sveta, Daniel, Kristina and Vanessa Yakovlev

6.

What is a day like with Igor?

A day with Igor can be very interesting or really unorganized. Unexpected stuff always happens.

I do have a habit of not preparing for a gig until it’s time to go. My mind gets creative as I go.

Yes, there are photo shoots that require great preparation, and we get all the equipment set up, test everything, and have the model there as well. I usually don’t want any guests on a set: hair stylists, make up artists, and models. Anyone else there, in my opinion, is a distraction. I like for my ideas to flow from my head, not so much having people say what they think will work. Some photo shoots we’ll have music and some nothing at all- just a quiet studio. It really depends on the mood we want the images to portray.

Model/MUAH Jenna Lee

Model Anzhelika Staver MUA Jenifer Haupt

7.

What is your “Dream Gig”?

When I started photographing a little over 5 years ago, I remember saying, “It will be nice to shoot for Vogue Magazine, it probably will be my last photo shoot ever”. Now today, I don’t dream or wish for anything for me. Every picture I capture is a story to look back. Through photography I meet very interesting people that help me grow toward becoming a better person and photographer.

Model/MUAH Anzhelika Staver

Vlad Kondrya

8. What do you love best about shooting?

Mostly what I like about shooting is that I never know what my next gigmight be. Something about the unknown is challenging to me, which I’m glad to take on. You really don’t know until you pick up your camera what you are able to capture. Capturing someone in a moment is just priceless.

Enna Miss Russian California 2011

Model Shantal Rooke

Model unknown

Title holder of 2013 Miss Sacramento County Teen Pageant Amanda O’Brien

When editing photos what do you focus on-creating a work of art or keeping it natural?

9.

It’s really what the project is about that we are creating; a scene we’re capturing, or telling a story? That’s something I go over with all of my clients. First, finding out what they’re expecting from me as their personal photographer and second, adding my creative touch to the images (after all, that’s why they hired me: because of my creative style). It’s important to me to stay to the real thing. Natural beauty never really goes away, it’s just replaced with time, no point in changing that!

Antonio E. Lewis

10.

Do you have a favorite picture in your portfolio?

My favorite images will have to be of my family. My kids are my future. In my last 5 years as a photographer I have not yet met anyone that asked for my portfolio, which is why I never started one. Social Media sites in my opinion, are the reason I never had to carry one. I learned as long as you keep your website, your posts busy, and filled with new interesting images, people do follow you.

Do you have any regrets 11.

with your career?

No regrets. A job that allows you to practice your creativity is the best job in the world, in my opinion. Photos do portray something about each photographer & most of the time even a good photographer doesn’t see it, till they’re told. It’s a great way to learn something about your self.

Julia Maaryanova

12. Tell us about your passion/muse?

Normally a photographer doesn’t look for building a personal relationship when looking for a muse. The advantage of having a muse is that it often helps the photographer develop their style while the muse gets more experience in front of the camera.

Victoria Birulk Enna Maslov

Brianna Nichole Staffler

Olga Grigorov, Look by Yennie Zhou

13. Tell us about the brands you shoot?

Nikon D4 Camera, D300. Lenses: 24-70mm F2.8, 70-200mm F2.8, Micro 60mm, 50mm F1.4. Nikon speed light SB800, Paul C. Buff strobes.

Model: Andra Mortensen Stylist: Ling Chan

14. Do you have a favorite model to shoot?

No. I‘m always looking for the new model, a ‘new face’, photographers call it. I have a list of a few models that work really well in different categories of photography like runway, print, beauty, lifestyle, sales, fashion etc.

15. What are you working on now that you can divulge?

The 2014 Miss Sacramento County Pageant’s image; 2015 Sacramento Fashion Week -the posters, look, & theme of the show; Models vs Photographers 2nd event. This is just a few from many; lots in the works.

Andra Mortensen

16. What’s more fun for you-stills or video?

I prefer stills. In my high school years, I started with video. I really liked the directing and editing part. It allowed me to control all the camera and direct them as I wanted. I was part of the TV Media club, writing scrips and creating different ideas for small shows; short videos. Yet, I always had a thing for still photos and photography. (cont’d)

(cont’d. from 37) Anywhere I walk by a photo I would stop and watch it, observe it.

One still can take you back in time like a time machine and bring back so many emotions and memories... that incredible, one still. Video is more about showing/explaining the story, less of the actual moment.

Galyna Yeroshenko

Lauren DiMarco

17. Where

do you see yourself in 5 years?

32 years old, lol!

Christine Alward

18. Have you ever experienced a limitation in your art?

Not really, before any photo shoots you have an idea how everything will go. Any questions that may occur are asked and answered before the photo shoot. That way on set no one is surprised if asked to do whats expected of them. I Portray art from everything-even if the worst happens. :)

19. What kind of photographer do you want to become?

Creative, Inspiring.

20.

What is the biggest show you have done so far?

For me, I like to think that every show is the next biggest show.

Model: Alesya Corsetti is wearing Vasily Vein.

Photo of the author, Chrstina Marie, spontaneously shot by Igor Kondrya

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Demystifying Wine Pairing for the Holidays

By: Adam Downey

The holidays can be one of the least relaxing times of the year.

Between planning, cleaning, shopping, cooking and decorating, you can find yourself exhausted before the first guest arrives.

It sounds like you are going to need a drink.

A nice glass of wine can take an ordinary holiday meal and turn it into an occasion to remember. Unfortunately, pairing your holiday meal can be as bewildering as taking every member of the United Nations to dinner and picking a restaurant everyone will agree on. What I would like to do is show you a few rules of thumb on how to pair wines with your holiday meal that get along well with almost every flavor on your holiday table. Think Switzerland in the U.N. With this guide, you will be pairing wine with your holiday meal like Martha Stewart, (minus the fabulous home and felony convictions, but I digress…).

When pairing wine and food, the first thing a professional considers is, “Do I want to compliment or contrast the flavors of this dish?”

When using wine to compliment your holiday meal, the flavors are not the only things to consider pairing. You must also consider the weight, texture and intensity of both the dish and wine. Traditional holiday fare such as turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes with the bewildering assortment of other family favorites on the table present such a staggering array of flavors, it is almost impossible to pick a wine that possesses all

the flavors that pair perfectly with every flavor in every dish. Since flavors of ingredients vary immeasurably and our palates are completely subjective, Sommeliers rely on objective measures when pairing wine.

It is much easier to describe and measure the level of body, or oak, or tastes like sour, salty, bitter or sweet when pairing food and wine than it is to say, describe the flavor of chicken or asparagus.

Sourness, also described as tartness, crispness, brightness and acidity is in my opinion, the most important attribute to look out for when picking a wine to pair with food. Acidity, acts like a plastic surgeon’s scalpel slicing through the richness of butter and cream based dishes and making salty or fried foods POP! It also beautifully brightens the flavors of your meal while leaving the palate cleansed for the myriad of flavors put before you on the holidays.

The volume of salt in holiday dishes is an often-neglected consideration in pairing holiday meals. When you pair saltier foods with red wine aged in oak the perception of tannin on your palate diminishes. This is one of the reasons why you are able to get away with pairing a lighter red wine such as Pinot Noir with turkey.

Bitterness isn’t the greatest consideration on the holidays, as there are very few if any bitter flavors in traditional American holiday fare. An example of working with bitterness is serving red wine with red meat.

The bitter charred notes of the grill play beautifully with the tannins of big red wine.

However, with leaner proteins like turkey

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or ham, the tannins of the skin and barrel can come across as more tannic and bitter and produce an unpleasant metallic flavor together. Imagine the turkey you just spent hours preparing tasting just like sucking on a handful of dirty pocket change when paired with that big Napa Cab Uncle Frank kept raving about.

er flavors. Rich, full-bodied Chardonnays tend to make that juicy succulent turkey and ham taste like a trip to the lumber aisle at Home Depot. Like the four hundred pound guy from Des Moines pinning you into your window seat on the flight home for the holidays, some things are just too big to fly well on the holidays. There are however, exceptions to the rule. If you are firing up the grill, doing a standing rib roast, or only like Cabernet, then by all means, drink ‘em if you got ‘em. Big buttery full-bodied Chardonnays with a heavier hand on oak works well with cream-based soups, corn-based dishes and smoked turkey.

“We all have to watch our weight on the holidays; this goes for our wine as well.”

A little something sweet never hurt anyone. Off dry, fruity wines with a hint of sweetness can really be the star of the show on the holidays. These wines really accent saltier foods like spiral cut glazed ham or brined roasted turkey beautifully! If you would like wine with dessert, Late Harvest wines go great with Apple, Pecan and Pumpkin Pies. Just make sure your wine is sweeter than your deserts.

The next things to focus on are weight, texture and intensity. We all have to watch our weight on the holidays; this goes for our wine as well. Aside from feeling like a stuffed tick on the couch after Thanksgiving, the actual weight of holiday fare like turkey and green bean casserole is not as light as say trout, but not as heavy as a Rib eye. Most big red wines and Chardonnays with a heavy hand of oak are like politics as a conversation topic for dinner (typically not a great idea with your holiday meal).

The level of alcohol and body of big red wines have a tendency to overpower light-

The textures and intensity of flavors of the dishes we typically enjoy for the holidays lean towards the less extreme end of the spectrum. So, more delicately flavored wines tend to pair elegantly with succulent dishes like turkey or ham, as well as side dishes like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. A good indicator of a lighter bodied wine is a level of Alcohol by Volume under 14% on reds or 13% on whites, roses and sparkling wines, which can be found on every label. Wineries are legally permitted a variance of up to 1% on the level of alcohol by volume they report on the label.

Great examples of contrasting pairings are fried chicken and Cava or Vin Santo and

Gorgonzola. Like Popeye and Olive Oyl, things that are very different often complement each other beautifully. On the holidays the main tool we use to contrast is Acidity. The crisp, tart, clean sensation of acidity in wine serves several functions on the holiday table.

It cuts through the richness of cream-based dips, sauces, & soups as well as the heaviness of fried foods. It also makes salty or sweeter foods explode with flavor.

One of the last things to keep in mind is the sequence in which you pour your wines. If you were doing a tasting of ice creams, to get the maximum bang for your buck flavor wise out of each one, you would probably want to go from sorbet to vanilla to strawberry to dark chocolate. If you say, ate the dark chocolate before the vanilla, the vanilla’s subtleties would be overshadowed by the intensity of the chocolate. The proper sequence of wines to follow is sparkling or dry white wines, fruiter white wines, fuller bodied white wines and white wines with more oak, light red wines, fuller bodied reds followed by dessert wines or ports.

like Digital Underground’s Humpty Hump said, “Doowutchyalike”. Food and wine is all about personal preference. If all you like is big Paso Syrah, then, Drink It with everything. If Aunt Hazel just loves White Zinfandel, don’t give her a hard time at the table this Thanksgiving. It is actually a very solid pairing, by the way.

“If Aunt Hazel just loves White Zinfandel, don’t wines give her a hard time at Certain are always a great idea for the holithe table this days, particularly fruity off dry Thanksgiving. It is and dry whites, roses, sparkling and light actually a very solid wines reds. The reason these wines work pairing...” is they are light-

Now the most important part of holiday food and wine pairing to remember,

er in style, with generous fruit characteristics and greater acidity, (tartness) with a lighter touch of, or no oak aging. Like a little black cocktail dress or fancy pair of jeans, these are a few wines, which are always a great pick for dinner.

Lucky for you, I have been exploring Wine country for amazing wines to pair with your holiday meal. This year’s collection of holiday wines was sourced exclusively from the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. These wines will shine when you want your bird to be the word and want your holiday meal to be the topic of conversation for weeks to come.

2013 Trefethen FamilyVineyards Dry Riesling,

Oak Knoll District, Napa.

This, “clean as a whistle,” off dry Riesling hits your palate with a gorgeous balance of green apple, pink grapefruit, and Persian lime zest with notes of guava and tropical fruit exploding in the finish. The Trefethens are a Third Generation Napa Valley Family owned all estate produced winery. Their location on the south end of the Napa Valley allows them to produce a wine that is a bit more delicate and light on its feet than many of their neighbors. My numero uno pick for the white meat on the bird, glazed ham and all of the fixings on the table. Napa Valley greatness on the table for under $25 USD.

What?

WWW.TREFETHEN.COM 866-895-7696 1160 Oak Knoll Avenue, Napa, CA 94558

By Appointment Please

Non-Vintage Amista Blanc De Blanc, Morningsong Vineyards,

Dry Creek Valley. Sonoma The first of two grower-produced sparklers from up and coming, Sonoma sparkling wine house, Amista, is the best bet to kick off your holiday feast. It has the staying power to enjoy throughout the entire meal, too. This little beauty’s vibrant acidity really accents food. Lemon curd, apple pie, hazelnut and toast notes race across your palate on a finely beaded stream of effervescence. It finishes clean with a beautiful juxtaposition of crisp and creamy in every mouthwatering sip. Simply a great wine for not only appetizers and snacks but also, for your main course as well. This Blanc de Blanc stands out at only $36 USD.

Non-Vintage Amista Sparkling Syrah, Morningsong Vineyards,

Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Fizz is just flat out fun! This is the first time I have seen this style outside of Australia. Produced in the Methode Champegnois from hand harvested Syrah, this is my pick for those who smoke or fry their turkey, also outstanding with a bit of dark meat with cranberry sauce. When the stream of tiny bubbles hits your tongue a wave of fresh spring red cherries and raspberries dance around your palate like Ginger Rodgers while a touch of briary spice and lemon meringue round out the finish. An unexpected treat for $32 USDs.

WWW.AMISTAVINEYARDS.COM

707-431-9200

3320 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448 No Appointment required for groups under eight

2012 Arista Pinot Noir,

Russian River Valley, Sonoma No, that’s not a typo. Arista not Amista.

Since 2002, the McWilliams family has been crafting Pinot Noir so fine, it’s becoming hard to get your hands on the stuff.

Veteran Sonoma Winemaker Matt Courtney is producing silky nectar oozing with juicy, ripe plum, cola, Bing cherry and salted caramel with a nice vein of acidity slicing through all that ripe raspberry goodness with a blend of estate grown fruit located smack dab in between Williams Selyem and Rochioli; as well as grower managed fruit from several premier vineyards. Taste the next great thing while you still can for only $48 USD.

2013 R. A. Harrison Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc,

Gamble Ranch, Yountville, Napa Roger Harrison has a very rare specialization as a winemaker, making dessert wine from grapes harvested much later in the season when their sugar levels have reached staggering heights.

Sometimes if conditions are right, a mold called botrytis cinera or noble rot takes hold and Roger can coax honeyed ambrosia from the fruit. He was able to do some amazing work with grapes sourced from the Gamble Ranch at the crossroads of Yountville and Oakville. The 2013 is just dripping with opulent ripe apricot, honeydew melon and fig jam with a razor of acidity cutting through all of that honeyed nectar with a hint of sage and acacia. Utterly amazing with a full belly and almost anything sweet. Just $45 USD. Adam Downey is fascinated by all things liquor, beer and wine related. He is currently pursuing the title of Master Sommelier. In his spare time, he loves to explore the back roads of Northern California, Oregon and Washington wine country, read, spend time with his family, and talk too much.

WWW.RAHARRISONFAMILYCELLARS.COM

707-815-3569

Not Open to Public I am especially interested in wines from exciting new wineries, oddball varietals, second labels from winemakers and newly added American Viticultural Areas.

For sample submissions and other inquires, please contact Adam Downey I would like to hear from you if you are interestat ed in being featured in IndieBlush.

Adam@yourownpersonalsommelier.com

WWW.ARISTAWINERY.COM 707-473-0606

7015 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448 No Appointment required for groups under eight

Alex G. Paman’s latest Kindle e-book, now available at amazon.com.

Rob-O & The Art of Sugar

By David Alvarez, Photos provided by Rob-O

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a day for honoring the life and memory of loved ones. It has a long tradition and is now celebrated in many countries throughout the world.

Sacramento has several events celebrating Día de los Muertos. Two of the larger observances include La Raza Galería Posada’s 5th Annual Panteón de Sacramento which takes place on Nov. 1-2 at 2020 J Street.

Community and individual altars honoring the dead will be displayed. Sol Collective also has an event that is held in Old Sacramento called Souls of the City on Nov. 1. Both events hold several activities and performances for children and adults.

The sugar skull artist known as Rob-O is a current Sacramento resident. His work can be seen at local galleries and events throughout the year.

Recently I sat with Rob-O to talk about his art. The meeting was quite enlightening for me and I’m pleased to share the following interview.

Q: What was the inspiration for your art and when did this happen?

A: It happened about seven years ago. I don’t know my father and my mother raised my sister and I. Basically what happened was that my mom passed away seven years ago. Moms are the La Raza Galería Posada’s Día de los Muertos honors the most important basis of cycle of life and death. I believe 5th Annual Panteón de Sacramento everything and it was like life should be lived to its fullest a really hard blow for me Nov. 1-2, 2020 J Street. and there is no way to avoid to be able to handle. There death so both should be respectwere other things in my ed and celebrated. life that occurred. I lost a Sol Collective’s really good job where I was Observance of Día de los Muermaking really good money.

Souls of the City tos varies but most celebrations My wife kind of saw what Nov. 1, Old Sacramento can take place with family, was happening and then I friends and neighbors who gather to share memories just kind of re-grounded myself. of close ones who have passed on. This is a personal holiday and families may have their own way of celeI can’t say I had a passion for the job I had even brating. though I made really good money. At the same time I had a passion for paying my mortgage (he laughs). So Some people create altars as a way to remember their in that aspect you just kind of get reset and I kind of deceased loved ones during the Día de los Muertos re-grounded myself and realized that I needed to wake celebration. up and enjoy what I do.

Traditionally these altars can be decorated with marigold flowers which are also known as flowers of the dead. Personal items of their loved ones also decorate these altars. Books, photographs, favorite food & drink, and many other personal items help adorn the altar.

Sugar skulls can also be placed at these altars and is now probably the most popular symbol of Día de los Muertos. Sugar skulls are decorated with frosting of many colors and designs personalizing each one.

Sacramento has a sugar skull artist who has been getting recognition for his work not only here but also at other exhibits throughout California and elsewhere.

At that point my mom’s passing was really hard. With the help of my wife, I went through a grieving process.

During that grieving process my wife came across and suggested, “Why don’t we just celebrate Dia de los Muertos for your Mom?” So I was all about it and at that time we had a pretty large garage. We emptied it all out and we built a really big altar and we made like, 60 sugar skulls. We invited all of our friends who had also lost parents or love ones and we all decorated sugar skulls. We all put our sentimental things that reminded us of the people that had passed on. We brought their favorite food and we played games and we just remembered, you know, our loved ones that had passed on and it really helped me the first year and we kept celebrating it.

We got to the point when we had quite a few sugar skulls left over. I’ve always done art but never been pushed to sell it and as I was decorating sugar skulls (it was three weeks later, almost in December), my wife asked, “What are we going to do with all these skulls?”

I hadn’t thought that far out I was just having fun with it.

We got an opportunity to show on Second Saturday, we tried it and it worked out. I was just learning, so I was trying to sell sugar skulls not sugar skulls protected by anything. So in the winter, with the moisture in the air, it started to create some problems. They sold but people had to be really careful with them. Creating the larger, full size sugar skulls really got me into the whole process. With that happening, it really made me realize that this outlet of celebrating life was a positive thing. I think that as Americans we look at death as such a negative thing and this art really helped me get through my situation.

Q: Where did you grow up?

work doing trade shows and speaking to customers also helped. Now I do art shows so I think that previous training really helped in sales, talking to people, marketing myself and doing quite a few different things.

With my art I try to keep true to the tradition of making real sugar skulls not making ceramic or wooden ones. That was my biggest issue; if I’m going to do this I’m going to stick with the tradition of making real sugar skulls. I’d like to have customers asking themselves, “Okay how did he do that?” and keep them intrigued and interested in the process.

Q: Can you please describe the process from beginning to end on how you create your sugar skulls?

“I think that as Americans, A: I look at a lot of tattoo and I also look at we look at death as such magazines other art. Something might my eye like the way a a negative thing and this catch filigree flows or maybe how flows. When I art really helped me get pinstriping find something I like I think how I can make that through my situation.” about certain look three dimension-

A: I grew up in the Central Valley in the outskirts of Fresno in a little town called Dinuba. I came to Sacramento about 16 years ago. I came up here for my wife to go to school and it was either LA or Sacramento and I didn’t want to deal with traffic so we came to Sacramento.

Q: What type of training do you have with sugar skull art -or are you self-taught?

A: It’s all self-taught but with some of the larger scale pieces I think there was a layout of life that needed to occur for me to get me to the point that I am at now. I don’t think that being younger and trying to do what I’m doing would have occurred. I have a pretty heavy construction background and that really helped me figure out how to do certain things with the really large sugar skull pieces. It helped me create a way to correctly mount them and make sure they were stable.

So with that construction background and having done other things I had experience that helped in the business area. Learning how to sell a certain product made me feel a lot more comfortable and previous

al in my world. So I use a little bit of tattoo influence with a little bit of other things or influences in life. Like I used to do these doodles kind of weird little abstract design work and it would be just stuff for myself. Actually it’s kind of funny because now I see it coming out in my art but in a more refined process where it flows a lot better. I’m always trying to make the process bigger and better.

The process to make the sugar skull starts when I draw out my design first and then begin the sugar skull. I let them air dry and then I do a little bit of pin work on them. After I do the pin work I air brush them with food coloring and then let that dry. After doing my design work I lay them down and I start to do the royal icing work. From there they go through an extensive drying period and after the drying period we add a moisture coat and this moisture coat pretty much protects the sugar skull from any water damage so that it will never melt on you. That really strengthens the sugar into a whole other level and makes the sugar not be so delicate. With that moisture coat on, it makes it to where we can pretty much ship them anywhere and the mailman can fail me and I’ll still be good.

Q: Do you go to schools and teach classes on sugar skull making?

A: We do go to schools! We’ll first teach kids about the history of Dia de los Muertos and then we’ll have an interaction session where they’ll decorate sugar skulls.

Basically, they’ll learn the history about two weeks be-

fore we get there. Sometimes they’ll make a sugar skull that’s inspired by someone in their world or someone that’s passed on and they’ll really try to use the colors that were influenced by that individual. Sometimes just getting the experience of the three dimensional art instead of just one or two dimensional drawings makes a difference. It’s really cool and we get a chance to hang out with the kids quite a bit.

We work with this group out of Oakland and the kids have Autism. What’s great about this is seeing them become interested. First we give them a piece of paper and we walk through the process. The paper has a silhouette sugar skull on the back and I tell the kids, “Alright go ahead and draw what you want to put on your sugar skull but draw it on the paper.” They’re kind of quick about it, but then I tell them that what they’ve drawn on that paper will be transferred to the sugar skull with a pencil. They then start with the frosting. So you really see that this does challenge them.

It’s great because my friend who’s a teacher there warned me that two or three students might walk out. She said these students might not be interested in art at all. Those two or three students sat there for those two and a half hours. So we’re really giving them a challenge most of them actually do enjoy.

Q: Do you get together with any other artists who do similar work?

A: I really like David Lozeau’s art. He’s actually out of San Diego and I really like to look at a lot of his work.

I look at Francisco Franco and then also Gustavo Reynoso or Ivan Rubio guys like that, we’re always chit chatting it up. Also Susan Rabinovitz, she’s from Little Relics and I think it’s always good to talk to other artists because it’s great to see and hear different angles. They’re all familiar with Day of the Dead, Día de los Muertos, and they’re artists I enjoy talking to and bouncing stuff off, since they’re actually doing

what I’m doing. They’re making art and surviving on it so it’s always good to hear different angles like what shows are good and things like that.

Q: Right now you’re showing at Little Relics for the month?

A: Yes, I’m showing at Little Relics and we’re showing down in Fresno at Arte Américas and I’m really excited about that. Actually, David Lozeau is also showing down there. The Fresno show will last until Nov. 16 and the Little Relics show until about the 5th of November. Other than that we’ll be doing shows here and there. On October 25th I have a show in San Jose for Día San José. I actually just finished a piece for them. They’ll be able to have it out for auction so I’m also pretty excited about that.

We’re always out there but this year with the whole re-branding of the business it’s been a somewhat different year which is good because we’re looking to raise it to the next level. We actually had a show in Santa Fe, New Mexico called Objects of Art. That was a really good and big show so we were really happy with that. We’re always looking to grow and push it to its fullest.

Q: Where can people find out more about you and your work?

A: They can go to ilovesugarskulls.com.

Q: Where do you see yourself and your art in the next 3-5 years?

A: Hopefully in a few, less than five years, I’m hoping things will be good. I mean, I feel we’ll be getting into more galleries. Actually, it’s kind of crazy, I’m thinking The Book of Life, a 20th Century Fox movie coming out on October 17 will change some things. I think

that’s going to change how people view sugar skull art.

People will be saying, “Oh, so that’s what those skull things are all about.” That’s where it’s going to open the world up to a lot of people that thought “Oh they’re just scary skulls.” I think the movie will make it a little easier for them to understand. So hopefully one day I’ll be standing next to Martha Stewart doing a sugar skull show and hanging out with Katie Couric and showing her a sugar skull.

So just getting exposure and always pushing it to the fullest helps. Hopefully one day you’ll just come interview me and people will be selling my art I’ll never have to leave my studio.

Q: What part of your art gives you the most satisfaction?

A: The biggest, or coolest, I think is when you get like older ladies that come from Mexico and they say things like, “Wow, we’ve seen sugar skulls our whole life but we’ve never seen them like this.” But then there’s also kids who know me and follow me and we joke around and that really inspires me and then it’s the customers and col-

lectors who may buy a piece, then they’ll buy another and by the third piece they’re saying, “You just keep amazing me” and that’s always good.

Probably my hardest critics are my sister and my wife because I can get a really good reaction from them. Those two ladies they’re the ones who help guide me they’ll suggest do this or that. They’re my biggest supporters and critics and I know that if I can get a good response from them I can tell I’m going to get a good response the rest of the way.

Q: Many people can’t tell the difference between Día de los Muertos and sugar skulls. How would you describe

the difference if any?

A: I always ask the kids when I first get to a school when they think Día de los Muertos is. Some say the 31st and so I tell them no that’s Halloween and we go through this little talk. It’s kind of funny because I feel that with what we’re doing we’re educating the public about Día de los Muertos and we’re educating them in a way where they see the positive in my art. They’re not like. “Oh those skulls are scary.” Like with my mother in law at the beginning she felt they were a little creepy. Now when I bring new sugar skulls out she’s like actually saying, “Oh wow those are beautiful.”

So with showing hopefully beautiful art and educating people about it things will continue to change. I was doing a Second Saturday show a couple of years ago and they always have stuff going on in the Convention Center. That particular Saturday there were some cheerleaders walking by with their mom and the mom said, “Oh they’re skulls, let’s keep going.” I said, “No, no, no,” and explained what they really represent. When I said it represented Día de los Muertos and, “It started with my mom”, I saw that her head kind of did a little turn and she totally caught what I was telling her and understood that it wasn’t a scary situation. It was a positive thing that was occurring. Even during the procession that we go to in San Francisco, it’s great to see how all those people get into such a positive vibe and where everybody is respectful and keeping the celebration true to its form.

Educating the public about it is a great tool. Going to some of the schools we go to and helping- maybe one of those little kids who may not say very much but then say, “I’m making this for my grandpa, or I’m going to do this for my dog or my bird,” you know maybe that will be something that will make it easier for them to realize that this is an easier way to cope with an unfortunate situation.

Q: Anything else you’d like to add?

A: If people are really interested I do commission work. I do feel that I understand a level of what it feels like to lose a loved one since this generated from my mom’s passing. So if anybody is interested in custom work we just need to sit down and I actually enjoy those meetings because those are some of the most challenging pieces for me. They’ll tell me a lot about the person, their favorite colors and what they enjoyed. From there I’ll have a great challenge and immerse myself into it. It’s usually a six month contract because what I like to do is have the person’s picture hanging in my studio and they might tell me the kind of music they enjoyed so I’ll play some of that music while working on something for inspiration. I really want to represent that person that’s passed away to the highest level that I can possibly do and push it to that level and go from there.

“So that’s what I do.

You know you gotta wake up and enjoy what you do.

We’re only here for a short time.

I figure, my wife and I don’t have kids so this is the legacy I’ll leave behind.”

Delicious Day of the Dead Traditions By: Kimberly Lucero, Photo courtesy of David Alvarez

If you’re planning on celebrating Dia De Los Muertos this year, but are a bit unsure of where to start, here is a handy run through of common Mexican traditions when it comes to remembering the dead.

First, start with the fact that the celebration is to remember those passed away. Most families believe that during Dia De Los Muertos, the spirits of their loved ones came back to earth to visit. So in preparation for their coming, families will often build alters for them, and give offerings. Offerings can consist of simple things like an old photograph and a favorite item of clothing, or be as complex as preparing a massive feast that might have been a family tradition. Either way, having an alter would be a crucial starting point to celebrate this holiday.

On top of building an alter, one of the most common traditions for “Day of the Dead” is sugar skulls.

They are fun, easy, and bring a colorful treat to the celebration. Sugar skulls are made almost purely out of sugar, with added ingredients to harden the sugar and hold its shape. These skulls are a great addition to this celebration mainly for the decoration of the skulls. Decorating sugar skulls can get pretty intricate, usually they consist of flowers around the eyes and symbols written on the skull. Sugar skulls can be decorated with only edible treats such as frosting, chocolate, and sprinkles, or they may be decorated with other non-edible items such as colored foil, sparkles and beads. It’s up to you whether you want your sugar skulls to be a tasty treat or purely eye candy.

Another common dish you may want to bake up for

this celebration would be Pan De Muerto. This sweet bread is usually baked in rolls and decorated on top with extra dough shaped into bones. Often times it is sprinkled with sugar and is best served warm. Pan De Muerto is very easy to make, takes about 35-45 minutes to bake, and can be really fun to decorate.

Plus, you may opt out of sprinkling sugar on top for a handmade glaze, which is not uncommon.

Other sweet treats common for Dia De Los Muertos are chocolate coffins and skulls. Almost any shape of the dead is accepted during this celebration. If you wanted to, you could get fancy and make an entire skeleton out of chocolate, or you could keep it simple and do basic shapes like coffins and skulls. If Chocolate isn’t your thing, you could also make candied pumpkin. There are many recipes that prepare candied pumpkin in a similar fashion as candied yams.

But this dish normally takes well over an hour to prepare, so be mindful of time if you plan on cooking this up for your celebration.

If you are feeling a bit chilly, warm things up a bit with a cup of Atole. This Mexican drink is similar to American hot chocolate, but with the consistency of oatmeal. It’s a very thick drink, and is usually vanilla flavored. It is sometimes topped with fruits and mixed with cinnamon sticks. Atole is very easy to make, but may be hard to do so in America unless you can find its main ingredient Masa Harina. You might have better luck with smaller grocery stores that specialize in ‘exotic’ foods.

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The Evolution of an Ambitious Filmmaker:

Matt Salvo By: Oscar Benjamin

There are many who continue to dream of a career in the entertainment industry, but the biggest hurdle will inevitably be the issue of entering such an industry. There are many tales that have been told of filmmakers like Robert Rodriquez who had financed his first film “El Mariachi” by participating in medical research

projects! Such tales add a degree of romanticism to the struggles of would be filmmakers and the only common denominator in such stories is that there truly is no real established method of entering the business. INDIEblush magazine decided to talk to Sacramento filmmaker, Matt Salvo about his journey as a filmmaker who went on to submit to the newly reactivated “Project Greenlight” created by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon. This is his story!

INDIEblush: Who is Matt Salvo?

Matt Salvo: My day job is that of a creative specialist. That is, I am a graphic designer for some magazines and some other publications. I am also a photographer who travels around and takes pictures. I basically show people where their food comes from, farm-to-fork! It is a nice job.

INDIEblush: Let’s concentrate on your filmmaking. What prompted you to want to become a filmmaker and what kind of filmmaker would you call yourself? Director, producer, actor?

Photo: Pamela Montini

Matt Salvo: I am definitely a writer and director. I just needed to feel like I wanted to accomplish something big in my life. I have wanted to start a new chapter.

What’s out there and I don’t know unless I try it. I have always been interested in multi-media and have worked with Public Access since I was 15. I have worked with the TV show at work sometimes and so I have some background in that. I grew up reading comic books and anything I could find and so I like to write. It started with this Fashion on Film event in Sacramento. We did pretty well there and it just bit me and I got the bug and needed to strive to see where it could go.

A chronology needs to be established to understand Salvo’s rather bold direction as a filmmaker. Fashion on Film was an event that was considered a successful business mixer wherein Sacramento filmmakers mingled with area fashion designers and models. The event occurred on February 19, 2014 Salvo screened

his film, “Freakquency” to much acclaim from those in attendance. It was even more remarkable considering that he was and is still considered a relatively new filmmaker.

INDIEblush: As a relatively new filmmaker who has inspired you? Any other writers or directors? And this can include anybody!

“We have all failed at something in our lives that we can relate to, but it is hard Matt Salvo: I am a huge fan and so to fail publicly and I kind of Spielberg anything he has made I have studied and like it...” watched ever since I was

a little kid. I try to model my style after that. Quality is number one so I feel that is important for people not only see a visually pleasing movie, but to hear it as well! This goes beyond dialogue and it also includes music. I like to encompass everything into it to make a perfect piece.

INDIEblush: Most of Steven Spielberg’s films are in the fantastic genre would you say that is the

Director and writer, Matt Salvo with his cast and crew of Freakquency gives an acceptance speech at the Fashion on Film event.

genre you gravitate towards?

individual?

Matt Salvo: My first film called Freakquency had a female character with powers and my second film that I submitted to Project Greenlight called Trader-the main character also had powers. I am always trying to incorporate that into my films.

Matt Salvo: That was really difficult because I knew no one in town. I was told about this California Film Foundation and that I should join this group because they have a lot of connections and so I did that. I went to this speed casting by Charlie Holliday and it is where the directors sit on one side of the table and the actors and other film crews sit on the other. You have sixty seconds to go through and I told everyone that I am making the biggest movie in Sacramento right now because I believed it! I only had a synopsis because I had never written a script before, so I googled how to write a script. Once I chose the actors they asked for the script, so I spent all of my Thanksgiving holiday writing and then I sent all of the emails and we got everybody.

INDIEblush: Let’s talk about Freakquency. You had won an award for that film-right?

Matt Salvo: It was nice because it was my first film and I think that this was what kept me going because maybe I am not horrible at this and I can keep trying and I can continue to do better!

INDIEblush: It is daunting for even a seasoned filmmaker to gather a crew to mount a project, so how did you as a first time filmmaker approach INDIEblush: Let’s talk about Project Greenlight. and have them consider you to be a serious You made one film called Freakquency, but how

Photo: Pamela Montini

did you approach them with just one film under your belt?

Matt Salvo: My Project Greenlight movie, Trader almost didn’t happen. I had just come off of filming for this twenty-four film race in New York and we lost.

I was so confident that we were going to win! I had just bought my ticket to New York because that is how confident I was because I never ever enter anything to lose.

That was such a wake-up call and it was what I needed.

It wasn’t the confidence thing because I could see that we didn’t do a complete story arc and it was too open ended so next time we would do better! Two days later a friend had told me that H.B.O. was bringing back Project Greenlight and that I should enter. I told him I was way too depressed over losing, but I thought about it and said ‘alright.’ I wrote a script and cast it because

it was easier to get people because everyone knew me from Freakquency.

I had everybody on board and it was great! And then people started to fall through the cracks. I needed a mansion and now I didn’t have one. I needed a Lamborghini and now I didn’t have one. Now I didn’t know if the actors were even going to come. I was ready to throw in the towel because two days before I was supposed to start to film I didn’t know anything. The co-writer told me to not worry because people will come through. Sure enough I got some emails telling me that I got the mansion, the Lamborghini and the rest of the stuff and so we decided to do it. We filmed eighteen hours a day on the weekend of the hottest days Sacramento has ever had! I had about forty people come and we were sweating with all of this equipment. I spent a good chunk of my own money to fund this thing and we did

“I want to just focus on learning how to write a better story arc with some different twists and then try to go to Sundance or Tribeca in 2016.”

it. I entered it not thinking we would get far because we would be competing nationwide with thousands of submissions from people that could be in S.A.G. I was on a photo shoot for work and I pulled an email from work that said, ‘congratulations, Matt Salvo! You have just made the top 200 from the thousands of submissions. We need you to submit a biography to H.B.O.’ I was floored! Man! It was like I won the lottery and I couldn’t concentrate on the photo shoot. We took off for a little bit and went out to lunch to regroup. We came back and I think I took the best pictures I had ever taken because I was so elated!”

I had a trip to Las Vegas planned so I went there with a buddy of mine, but they wanted this biographical video in a week so I flew back from Vegas early. As soon as I touched down in Sacramento I emailed everyone the script and got together the next night. We had the owner of Reunion nightclub in El Dorado Hills close the club for the night and we filmed this funny little bio video. We submitted to H.B.O. and that was it! I see everyone on their Project Greenlight Facebook pages commenting that they had so many fans and

from that we had thought we weren’t in the competition! I then get an email from H.B.O. asking me if they could use Trader to promote their show, so they were looking for a high resolution copy and could I email them that! I log in and see only fifteen entries and I was wondering if we made the top 20 or how does this work? They were supposed to announce on September 11th, but then they said they would do it on the 12th.

I didn’t sleep at all because it goes to public vote and it could be life changing because every Hollywood producer will be looking at this thing. H.B.O. finally sends an email asking us to open the email stating the imminent release at 10:00 A.M. and they wanted someone to film the reaction-good or bad- when we opened up the email. It was one thing to fail in private like I did with the New York deal, but to do it publicly is embarrassing or it’s awesome because there is no middle ground!

I went to a quiet place and opened the laptop and I am looking and I don’t see my name. It hit me twenty minutes later and I just broke down. I was crying because we came so close to just have it fade away! I couldn’t be mad for losing because I had seen the top Photo: Alena V Melnik

twenty and to be even in that company with those people was an honor! I figured I need to take some time off now and I want to just focus on learning how to write a better story arc with some different twists and then try to go to Sundance or Tribeca in 2016. That is my next goal. If I don’t make it again, I am going to do it again!”

INDIEblush: What do you think the future holds for you as you keep traversing the world of filmmaking?

Matt Salvo: Boy! I have no idea, but if you would have asked me a year ago that I would be sitting here with you talking about film stuff I would have said, ‘what?’

If this is what we did in one year then I cannot wait to INDIEblush: What kind films in the future would see what happens in another. The failures of this year you like to do as you embark on the next phase of have been my biggest success if you really think about it because they have been the most high profile ones! filmmaking career?

I think it is easy for us to pat ourselves on the back in Sacramento, but until we see the other people like Matt Salvo: I think if I am going to affect the largest our stuff it would be way more gratifying! Keep using amount of people I need to be not so locked into a genre, but go with what sells. I think these psycholog- Sacramento talent for one, but enter it more internationally! ical thrillers are very good, but you need to mix in anWe have all failed at something in our lives that we other genre to capture another audience like the female can relate to, but it is hard to fail publicly and I kind of portion. I was thinking of a romantic psychological thriller because I haven’t seen too many of those done. like it because it keeps me on my toes and now everyIf we can write it properly to where it gets in your head one is watching! Let’s give them a show!” ~Oscar Benjamin and it tugs at every one of us where we felt this type of emotion then I think that is what could sell.

Photo: Alena V Melnik

Models vs Photographers Igor Kondrya challenged models and photographers to come together to have a shoot-out last Summer, and INDIEblush wanted to recognize the top shooters and models. These 4 pages are the results of online voting.

Congratulations to the winners!

First Place: Photog: Andrea Michelle Model: Kelekea Hanalei

Second Place Photog: Tronel Photos Model: Laura Baryak

Third Place Photog: Kyle Le Model: Kelekea Hanalei It was a slightly overcast, lazy, late Summer day. The drive to the lake was filled with anticipation and wonder for what could be a triumph or disaster: several models and photographers converging to one location to see who might connect and use the day to build their portfolios.

INDIEblush was there with cameras rolling too. What we witnessed was a great community coming together to share ideas, mentor each other a bit, and snap some great shots off.

The day was organized by Igor Kondrya as an opportunity to “flex the muscles� and get inspired again. Often, creatives are asked to make boring commercial content, but rarely do they get to just shoot something different. The atmosphere was very relaxed and open.

The day went well into the evening, until the park ranger came and told us the lake was closed. We parted ways after exchanging business cards and Social Media posts.

As you can see from these images achieved, the day was a roaring success for the creative community. INDIEblush looks forward to the next event of Models Vs Photographers.

Until then, please enjoy these top photos and see more at www.Facebook.com/IndieBlush

Frankie Vanity: Costume Designer on the Rise

By: Shane L. Maus

Today I sit across from Frankie Vanity, the almost always grinning, feisty redhead and the winner of 2014 Capitol INDIE Collective: Fashion Challenge. I first heard of Frankie at the Crest Theater. I was there with my friend West Ramsey to watch the premier of Mondo Sacramento, in which Frankie Played the mother of Sandahl Skye’s character, the Vampire of Sacramento. I mentioned an idea I had for a graphic novel to West and he suggested I talk with Frankie, because she was also working on a graphic novel and might be able to help me find an illustrator.

I added her to Facebook, but never got around to chatting with her until more than a year later, now here we sit to discuss her entry into the local entertainment scene, her orbit in relation to mine, and how that has affected her trajectory.

S: So Frankie, what was it that introduced you to the local entertainment industry here in Sacramento?

F: I have been making costumes for about 20 years and I was asked to be involved in Sac Con and Sac Anime’s cosplay event about 10 years ago. I didn’t even know what cosplay was when I started, but they also needed someone to do PR for them. So I would say that event was what put me within close proximity to the Sacramento entertainment network.

S: However, you were a costumer, so technically you were an old school cosplayer.

F: Yes, they had never had anyone run their cosplay who was an official costume designer 10 years ago. So when I went into that business, they all wondered what a costume designer was.

These people were building costumes, but they never really realized there was an industry. So, it kinda changed the way that they looked at it from a costume standpoint. These kids were just building costumes and didn’t seem to realize it was a profession.

cos•play ˈkäzˌplā,ˈkäsˌplā/

noun 1. The practice of dressing up as a character from a movie, book, or video game, especially one from the Japanese genres of manga and anime.

S: They were dressing up to mimic specific characters in films and video games.

I had a chance to see an interview with Darin Wood from Trash Film Orgy Productions. TFO puts on events and it’s encouraged for people to come dressed up in the themes of the movies.

But this was also before the cosplay phenomenon blew up, people were just dressing up with the theme of the movies, like they traditionally do with Rocky Horror Picture Show. Just to have fun and look like you fit in with the theme of the event.

F: It was interesting starting a cosplay event for Sac Con and Sac Anime because, I didn’t know what I was doing, so I ran it technically, but I also did it to have fun and I wanted the kids to have fun. I would throw candy and get them up on stage and involve them in the whole production and interact with me on the stage. Now that’s kinda frowned upon, but 10 years ago it really changed the way they did it.

I did that for about 3 years, which got me involved in PR which led to me doing Witchapalooza. It was just a one-time event, but I met TFO, I met Shannon McCabe from Vampire Ball and I met Tim Meunier of Sac Horror Film Festival. All of these people are a very big part of my life and friends of mine, so even though Witchapalooza didn’t really go anywhere, and it was just a one time event, all these people that I met are all still really good friends of mine to this day. So doing this PR really opened a whole other world, which has become a part of me.

S: Wow, I was trying to get to how you got into the atmosphere of this industry and it look like just a few events really just catapulted you right into the middle of it all.

F: Exactly! Since then I have done costumes for horror films, I’ve done things for TFO, I did PR for Vampire Ball with Shannon McCabe for 3 years, so I’ve done something for all of these people at some point since then. It’s amazing how those small things can become much bigger.

S: OK, so one name I didn’t hear you mention, but I know you’ve been doing costuming for is Callson Manor. How did you get involved with the haunts?

F: I have a friend downtown who knows David Ainsworth from Alchemy FX, and he was doing Callson Manor’s makeup. They were short handed and they needed people to come out and volunteer. He found out that I did costumes and he introduced me to Bryan Patterson; Bryan interviewed me to do costumes for the next year, but he also needed someone to help him in the shop and I had never done special FX. He just needed to train somebody to start helping him do molding and special FX, so I wound up helping him for a year in his shop doing that, which most people have no idea I know how to do. I guess this is going to let the cat out of the bag…. I don’t have the equipment, but I know how to do molding and casting and I’m very grateful for Bryan for that, because that was a really neat opportunity for me to do things that I never expected I could do.

S: So the connection to Callson Manor came through David Ainsworth who has worked closely on several projects with TFO and Vampire Ball. It sounds like you can chalk that introduction to that witchapalooza event as well.

F: Yep, he introduced me to Bryan and from there I ended up doing costuming for Callson Manor for 2 years up till this year.

S: Is that where you met Nicole Chilelli?

F: Yes, I did meet Nicole through Callson Manor.

S: And you two are pretty good friends now, and you still work on project together as well?

F: Yeah! She was sad that I was going to have to take a break from Callson through the holiday season, but the stuff I’ve seen out there has been pretty amazing. The makeup is amazing this year; I’m hoping to get out there so I can see the whole show.

S: You said you’ve been doing costuming for 20 years.

Have you won any awards?

F: When I started doing costumes I was doing theater, years ago, and I was nominated for a Sacramento Elly, but I didn’t win. I did win the very first Vampire Ball costume contest too…. (laughing) and the following year I was officially her PR person.

S: So West first referred me to you because you were working on a graphic novel. What is the current status of that?

F: Originally I had an idea for a book. I told some friends about my idea and they said, this would make a better comic book. So, we got funding and we produced one issue of Vincent Hollow, then I ran into some creative differences with that team so we never produced more than that one issue.

S: You wrote this story and created the characters, right?

F: Yes, it’s been on hold because I am in school right now, and I have been focusing so much on costuming lately.

The characters in the comic are all based on other popular literary characters, somewhat mixed up. There’s Raven Poe, who’s a bubbly goth girl. Then we have Austen Darcy, he’s kind of a Rockabilly, awkward romantic. There’s Katerina Shrew who’s somewhat of a bitchy hippie girl and then there’s Vladimir Harker, a MacGyver type computer geek that thinks anything can be fixed with duct tape.

S: Speaking of geek. You’re kind of a literary geek and a huge Poe fan, right?

F: I’m a ginormous Poe fan, yeah. (laughing) I have a huge Poe collection. I have century old Poe books as well as Poe trinkets and now I have a little black cat named Poe as well. So, yeah, I’m a little bit of a Poe fan.

S: So despite the fact that I originally friended you on Facebook because you were working on this graphic novel, I never actually contacted you about that. The first time I contacted you was to see if you would be interested in modeling for our #Dysphoria project, right?

F: Yes. S: So what did you think of that?

F: When you contacted me, I remember I was kind of busy. When I remembered about the project I went back to it, because it was about body image and I was really VERY interested in being involved in that campaign. Being somebody who is a very healthy 47 year old, I think it’s very important to be body positive. I think that the world needs to be more positive, so this campaign to me was a positive thing.

S: Plus, it’s a nude photo project. Have you ever done any kind of nude modeling before?

F: No S: So what made you decide that you wanted to model nude for the #Dysphoria project?

F: It wasn’t just the cause. That was a big part of it, but I also had a past eating disorder and I thought it was time, because I was healthy now, it was time to be honest about it.

I think far too often women, and people in general, think too much about how they look to others.

I thought what you were trying to do was a really important message to get out there, and all of us should be proud of what our bodies look like.

S: It sounds like this eating disorder you had, you’ve been keeping quiet for quite some time. So not only did you gravitate to this cause, but you also wanted to do this as a testament to how far you personally have come, maybe try and be a catalyst for others as well?

F: Yeah, There are a few people who knew about this, but it was kind of hard to come forward and do this and make the statement that I’m healthy now. So, I’m going to pose nude… which I had no problem doing. I’m such an open person. I have a 17-year-old son, and when he

heard I was doing this, it didn’t shock him at all, but I think people were surprised that I was being honest about the eating disorder.

there was nothing. People were very supportive and it was nice. I was actually pretty surprised by the kind of support I got from it.

S: For some people it was probably very difficult for them to get naked for this shoot, but what you are saying is that that part was easy for you, it was the being open about your eating disorder that really made you feel bare.

S: We do have a private Facebook group specifically for the people who have participated in the #Dysphoria project, and I love seeing how supportive that group is.

Not just to the rest of the members, but to other related causes and campaigns as well. The people in our group are fantastic!

F: YES! It was hard to be honest about that.

Particularly when we went on TV for this project, I was going to be on the spot, and I have to be honest about why I am doing this.

S: Right, you were one of the select few that went on Good Day Sacramento about this project. So we were going on Good Day naked and were going to have to talk to Mark S. Allen about this live and you kind of know Mark, right?

F: Yeah, I’ve known Mark for about 10 years. I was waiting for this weird backlash after, but

F: I recently shared about some side affect of some medication I was taking that was affecting my weight, and it was really nice to have people be so supportive when I went on to share that.

Their support and feedback is really what I needed.

S: So, after dragging you into this fantastic fine art project, I also kind of dragged you into the Capitol INDIE Collective: (CIC) Fashion Challenge this year as well.

F: You did drag me into the CIC Fashion Chal-

lenge.

S: I advocated for a couple people to be in this years fashion challenge, and I don’t think either of you where thrilled to do it right off the bat. Haha So what made you decide to go ahead and go forward with the fashion challenge?

F: I went to the meeting, and I was thinking… this is a fashion challenge, and I’m a costumer, what am I doing here? OK, I promised Shane I would go to this meeting. I’m going to listen.

When I heard the secret ingredient was trash, I was thinking… Oh my god, this is my challenge!

(Laughing) I’m a costumer. I can totally pull this off! The first thing I did when I got out of there was contact my costume assistant Genevieve Bohan. I have a team of girls I work with, and I thought if she was on board, we could totally pull this off.

Although I’ve done fashion stuff in the past, I mean I design clothes for myself frequently. It’s just harder for me to go down that line of thought because I am so use to doing costuming. When I got my AA in college, it was in Victorian particularly. That’s my specialty.

bags, coffee grounds and all. So when we collected these bags we had to go through and pick the filters out from the grains and clean them.

S: Wow! I bet you were getting a caffeine contact high as well as absorbing it through your skin (Laughing).

F: Yep, the whole place smelled like coffee for weeks. After getting all the filters cleaned up, I immediately started sewing the filters together and I was posting my progress on social media.

Kimberly Lucero, and another designer in the challenge, were also posting progress on social media. When Kimberly saw I was making a Victorian dress, she was concerned about having too similar of a design, because her design was also Victorian. People thought I was crazy when I told them I sent her my sketches so she could see what my design looked like.

They said she might copy me. Of course, that was silly, neither of us wanted our dresses to look too much alike. Thankfully it turned out they were quite different and Kimberly and I continued to post our progress on social media and inspire each other to keep going. It really was a great experience.

“This was such a great experience. It was really hard at times, but all the work was worth it and winning the challenge has changed everything.”

S: So it’s not surprising that Victorian style influenced your design for the Fashion Challenge. Tell me, how did you decide on what you were going to create.

F: I actually had no idea what I was going to do for this challenge, I just knew that I would be able to come up with something, and while dumping the coffee grounds after my morning coffee, it struck me that I could use coffee filters. I wasn’t sure if that was going to work within the rules of the challenge so I checked with Christina Marie, and she gave me the thumbs up. So I went to coffee shops in search for their used filters. I’m not sure you know how coffee shops dispose of their discarded filters, but they package them in

S: So you are glad I convinced you to go to this meeting?

F: Absolutely. This was such a great experience.

It was really hard at times, but all the work was worth it and winning the challenge has changed everything.

S: That’s right, you won first place and one of the prizes provided by Sac Fashion Week is that you can show at Sac Fashion Week in Feb 2015. I was there when you were presented with this prize package and you kind of looked the same way you did when I told you about the CIC Fashion Challenge.

F: Yes, that is true. (laughing) Like I said, thinking in terms of fashion is not as easy for me, but when my assistant Genevieve heard about the fashion week prize, I knew there was just no way I was going to get out of this. So it looks like I have no choice but to do fashion week this spring!

I am really excited about this opportunity though.

Taking this chance has changed everything. Now my team and I are actual starting a new company. We are trying to come up with a name now.

I want to focus on the fact I have other talented people around me and we can market everyone, not just me.

We met last weekend to try and come up with names. We are still in the conceptual process.

Trying to figure out if we want to focus more on fashion or movies or both. I bring a lot of movie contacts. Fashion is a new territory for me, but two of my girls do hair and beauty makeup, and I feel adding hair and makeup seems to be a big plus.

S: So you are on the edge of costuming for productions, designing fashions for photo-shoots or runway shows? Stage & film productions need hair and makeup too.

F: Yes, I have already been asked about doing hair and make for a stage production. We haven’t even gotten any of that figured out yet. The beginning of a concept is always hard. We have to get all our ducks in a row.

S: Absolutely, who is your team?

F: Genevieve, Kristine, Moniqe and I. ‘The girls’.

Everyone has been working under me for almost 3 years. I think it is time we make it more of a team and highlight everyone’s strengths.

S: Is this stage production you have already been asked to do a paying gig? Do you think you will be able to make money with this business concept here in this area?

F: Yes it is, and I do. With us as a team, It will help us to get our business and get our name out there.

I have never really had to do much promoting. I have gotten things through word of mouth. We are creating a line as a team to do the Spring Fashion week.

S: I can’t wait to see what you create!

It makes me happy to see hard working and talented artists make the most of an opportunity. Last year I got to witness Sacha Larin win the Capitol INDIE Collective: Fashion Challenge 2013 and go on to show at Fashion Week; continue to bloom and do great and amazing things strengthening her design business Kombucha Couture and her cheese making at Winters Cheese Co., eventually being highlighted as a RAW artist this summer among other things.

Now only a few months after Fashion Challenge 2014 I can already see Frankie transforming as an artist and a business woman. Stepping forward with her team into the mouth of the unknown, ready for battle, fear for her place in the shade.

I can’t wait to see what the landscape will look like this time next year, and I will also be watching Kimberly Lucero, Second place winner of CIC Fashion Challenge, who is already working with INDIEblush Magazine to create awesome content for all of you. Stay Tuned….

~Shane Maus

November 12-16, 2014 www.napavalleyfilmfest.org

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