passion through photography
JOSE PAGAN PRESENTS
FACES
MISS
UNIVERSE highlights from the show and did the judges make the right choice ?
bohemian to the core new collection from
NICOLE MILLER discovered talents:
ERIKA RACHEL
WHY OLDER WOMEN ARE DATING YOUNGER MEN
Be Limitless. Express Yourself.
View of colorful graffiti artwork at Hosier Lane in Melbourne
EDITOR'S
The
I
BEAUTY issue
t would be an utter disrespect if I didn’t recognize the emotional roller coaster that my nation went through yesterday. Year after year we don’t expect much of our Miss Universe advancing in the ranks. However last night was indeed a moment of true pride for Haiti as Raquel Pelissier advanced to the top 2 finalists ready to take the crown. Social media platforms exploded with comments of joy, excitement, stress and even tears as we watch our beloved contestant rise. In this issue, we highlight the behind the scenes of the show and give you a front row view of the crowning of the new Miss Universe 2017. Moreover, we feature a name that needs no introduction, a fashion icon, Nicole Miller. We were privileged to have an exclusive view of her new collection and you can only see it right here in this issue. We never skip the world of art without bringing you discovered talents from around the world. Erika Rachel is just that, a gem among gems, she shares her passion and what brought her to become the incredible artist that she is. I have said it time and time again. This issue would not have been possible without the continuous support and contribution of our writers and photographers. We would like to wish all of our readers a happy and prosperous new year and enjoy our 18th issue.
CORHINN BRUNOT Founder and Editor in Chief Follow me on Twitter @ccwcnetwork
letter
4 | CREATIV | Dec - Jan 2017 | www.creativmag.com
Known by most as "Toni". For eleven years, Toni served her community as a high school English teacher and an Instructional Reading Coach for Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Currently, Toni is in pursuit of publishing her first book, Controlling Your Crazy While Dating Your Non-Existent Boyfriend. In her spare time, Toni enjoys shopping, traveling and writing. In addition to writing for CREATIV magazine, she serves as the blogger for The Millionheiress Club and Keva J Swimwear. One day, Toni aspires to be an esteemed author and public speaker. For the mini bio on the article: Toni is in pursuit of publishing her first book, Controlling Your Crazy While Dating Your Non-Existent Boyfriend.
Georcia Bryce Ms. Bryce, an eloquent and influential speaker, teacher, motivator, mentor, and life coach, finds energy and passion in inspiring individuals to reconcile their lives with the Master Architect. She helps people, through conformance to His specifications, come into the expected end that was pre-designed for them. Her messages are geared towards empowering individuals, through the process of self-discovery and the pursuit of their tailored purpose. Emphasis is on accurate relationship development; beginning with the individual (self) and then interdependently. Visit her at www.buildingaccordingtopattern.com
Showeshi Boston Showeshi Strickland-Boston, ACC, is a certified and accredited Travel Consultant with 13 years of experience in the travel industry, beginning with close to 10 years with Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd., before opening her own full-service travel agency as a Cruise Planners and American Express Travel Representative. Her industry experience has included managing and overseeing divisions focusing on sales, marketing and training which included training and development of Sales Managers for Royal Caribbean and fellow Travel Agents. Traveling has been a life-long passion, fueled by on-going education within the field that allows Ms. Strickland-Boston to provide personalized, informed, consultative and expert travel planning to her clients. For more information about her agency, visit the agency's website at www.CruiseElite.com.
Emonde Prosper The Conduit for the Poet Entrepreneur, Emonde M. Prosper is an author, spoken word poet, and creative entrepreneur advocate. Founder of RegalPoete, an arts and education programming company, Emonde devotes her time to developing artists into small business owners. With her first book, “Exposure is Not Enough: Pay Me for My Art� she continues to be a passionate vocal advocate for the social reform of the prosperous and sustainable artist in all art forms.
6 | CREATIV | Dec - Jan 2017 | www.creativmag.com
Would you like to be a contributor? Contact us at info@creativmag.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Toni Douglas
Got Talent? BE SEEN... GET PUBLISHED! Are you a fashion blogger? Photographer ? Writer? Become a contributor to our magazine. Email your credentials at info@creativmag.com
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DEC -JAN
IN THIS ISSUE VISUAL ARTS
50
Up Photography 16 Pop The Brooklyn Bridge- A work of art by photographer Leo Bellamy
Up Photography 20 Pop "ATTITUDE"
Raquel Pelissier
by photographer Dany King Foto
1st Runner Up at the 65th Edition of Miss Universe
FASHION PHOTORGAPHY and fresh trends 24 Young School is in Session by photographer Leo Bellamy
FEATURED STORIES Story 30 Cover Passion through photography Jose Pagan
contents
Universe 50 Miss Miss Haiti comes to Miami Highlights of the show
Presentation 62 Fashion Nicole Miller presents her new Bohochic collection
Talents 72 Discovered Abstract Artist: Erika Rachel Talents 84 Discovered Abstract Artist: Thabiti
WRITER'S CORNER
88
Traveling in style
90
Empowerment
Out with the old in with the new by Showeshi Boston In the fullness of time by Georgia Bryce
and Relationships 92 Love Looking for love in all the young places
94
by Toni Douglas
Artistic Entrepreneurship Resolution?! Get it done with Revolution by Emonde Prosper
Photo by Sean Simpson
Read Our Blog
Find exclusive pictures of renoun artist Erika Rachel on our blog creativmag.com Read her full interview in this isssue on page:
72
COVER CREDITS Photographer: JOSE PAGAN Subject photographed : LEON ROBINSON
Editorial Director
Corhinn Brunot ARTICLES EDITOR Didier Brunot HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Sean Simpson DISTRIBUTED BY Joomag.com magzter.com
ARTICLES CONTRIBUTORS Emonde Prosper Showeshi Boston Toni Douglas Georgia Bryce Jolaina Peltier
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTION Sean Simpson
Peter Simpson Dany King Leo Bellamy Marcello Bernardes Jeffrey Baxter
14 | CREATIV | Dec - Jan 2017 | www.creativmag.com
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The
BROOKLYN Bridge Bridge work of
A
ART
T
The Brooklyn Bridge looms majestically over New York City’s East River, linking the two boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Since 1883, its granite towers and steel cables have offered a safe and scenic passage to millions of commuters and tourists, trains and bicycles, pushcarts and cars. The bridge’s construction took 14 years, involved 600 workers and cost $15 million (more than $320 million in today’s dollars). At least two dozen people died in the process, including its original designer. Now more than 125 years old, this iconic feature of the New York City skyline still carries roughly 150,000 vehicles and pedestrians every day. Source: History.com Photography by Leo Bellamy
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BE FIERCE
Photographer: Dany King Foto Model: Sarah Paul Makeup Artist: JB Edmond Designer: JB Edmond Design (O' Marie)
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CREATE
POP UP PHOTOGRAPHY
DOMINATE
Photographer: Dany King Foto Model: Sarah Paul Makeup Artist: JB Edmond Designer: JB Edmond Design (O' Marie)
SCHOOL IS IN SESSION
Photographer: Leo Bellamy Model: Janyll Penna Clothing: Zara Test Photoshoot resulting in phenomenal depictation of school fashion trends
Photographer: Leo Bellamy Model: Janyll Penna Clothing: Zara Test Photoshoot resulting in phenomenal depictation of school fashion trends
Photographer: Leo Bellamy Model: Janyll Penna Clothing: Zara Test Photoshoot resulting in phenomenal depictation of school fashion trends
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Cover Stroy |
Jose Pagan
ACES Photographer: Jose Pagan Model: Christopher Scott
R
Remember the name, Jose Pagãn. He is a fashion and fine art photographer based in New York City. Let me start by saying art is his lifeblood. “It is the type of work I can lose myself to when I’m working late at night.” He states. He remembers being creative at a young age and always looking to make new things out of old things with his hands. In 2005, he realized that he could still create things but in a different way. He then saw the camera as my new tool to help him create the images that come to mind. “My beautiful wife became my first official muse for my artistic adventure. She helped me fine-tune my connection with the camera to launch my first fine art nude photography project called the Blacklight Photo Experiment. For five years and over 11,000 images I captured people from all walks of life to create an art project that celebrated the human form and spirit. This project not only let me translate the creative instructions I received but it also let me connect with my muses on a personal level and in most times helped them overcome personal bound areas by giving them a creative outlet to be themselves.”
Jose describes the process of his creations and how this work of art came to life: When I sought to create art I told myself that I wasn’t going to do easy projects. I wanted to challenge myself in anything I do. For example, in the Blacklight Experiment I wanted to capture detail, color and emotion in the most surreal form that I could. So I had to think of a technique that could do all of this at once. HDR plus long shutters and bracketed images was the course to take. It was an arduous approach but it garnered the results that I was looking for. Shoots would last hours and the muse and I would have sore muscles the next day but it was well worth the labor to create the beautiful scenes that left my viewers in disbelief.
e s Jo n a g a P
Another project that I’m currently working on that is equally as challenging is the Chakralicious project. It is another fine art project that helps me connect with my subjects on a spiritual level using lights and fire on set to create sublime images that people swear is photoshopped; that is until I let them know that everything they see in the image is created on set minus some chakra symbols. So whatever project I choose to undertake, believe that it will be done with meticulous attention to detail, substance and emotion.
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Jose seems to have a humanitarian side. One project in particular moved him dearly, that project was the Miracle Workers portrait shoot and documentary film. He reached out to a domestic violence organization called Milagros Day Worldwide and teamed up with the founder Dawn Diaz so he can do a portrait session of six of the mentors who themselves were survivors of domestic violence. This action is truly to be admired. He then states: “Before I actually took their photos I reached out to them and interviewed them to get a first-hand account of their story. This helped me bring out their happiness and peacefulness during our sessions. They became talkative and showed me that there is life after pain. Since then we have done several screenings of the documentary I directed of the same name spreading our love and vision to those who need it most.” Combining art with serious subjects is now one of his missions when it comes to creating. He doesn’t create vain visual material, but instead looks to engage his subjects and spark conversation on the topics that are truly important. “I want my viewers to see my work and say wow, I see the love or the pain, instead of oh look at the light and shadows. Developing art with character and emotion is the next level for me and it will drive my work for most of my foreseeable future.”
I want my viewers to see my work and say wow, I see the love or the pain, instead of oh look at the light and shadows.
An expert at his craft Jose shares a few tips that will help the aspiring photographer become better and sharper: We can talk about careers and market approach all day until I’m blue in the face but if I leave a budding artist any kind of advice it will be these simple ones: - First, practice, practice and practice. When starting out ask your family members, co-workers or professionals in your area to be your subjects. Practice will help you find your style and guide you towards your photography path. You might do an event after doing portraits and find out you like doing events more than studio work. Only by shooting often will you find out what you like and don’t like. I personally found
out that I don’t like shooting events or weddings but it took going out into the field and going through the experience to find this out. -Second, would be to know your worth. You might do several test shoots to get started and to hone your skills, but once you are established, know when to say NO to the free or collaborative work. I mean of course you will say it with a smile because at the end of the day we are not mean, we just have bills to pay and cannot do that if we are working for free all the time. Set your price by figuring out your costs on one job including things like tolls, gas, skill level and wear and tear on your equipment. I price the majority of my work on my eye skill then I add up all the costs from everything else. Remember your time and artistry is money. - And lastly, if your heart doesn’t race when you think about a particular job then don’t do it. Don’t go into a particular photography sub field if it doesn’t make you happy. Don’t take the job photographing socks all day if you do not get that rush that creates a true artist. Work hard and network with industry professionals in your preferred field to land the jobs in that circle. Nothing is worse that working in a job you hate, and I personally feel it makes people depressed and unproductive. In his final word, Jose expresses his love and passion for photography: Photography and art was a match made in heaven. It has bought me peace and happiness in my life. I believe that it will still be a craft for many more hundreds of years. The camera is my brush and people are my canvas, so go out there and connect and build your legacy. Cheers! You can find him at www. josepaganphotography.com On social media you follow him on Instagram @josepaganphotography
Miki Tyson
Photographer : Jose Pagan Model Miki Tyson, daughter of World renoun boxer Mike Tyson
Isis
Gonzalez
Photographer : Jose Pagan Model : Isis Gonzalez
Diaz
Dawn Photographer : Jose Pagan Model : Dawn Diaz
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Julia
Lee
Photographer : Jose Pagan Model : Julia Lee Julia has represented brands such as Topshop, Urban Outfitters, NastyGal, Yoox, and Zara
Mar
Ortiz
Photographer: Jose Pagan Model: Mar Ortiz Mar is a singer and cast member of Lifetime’s Big Women
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Leon
Robinson
Photographer: Jose Pagan Model: Leon Robinso American actor and singer, who began his professional career as a film actor in the early-1980s. Robinson is best known for his roles as David Ruffin in the TV Movie The Temptations (1998), J.T. Matthews in the 1991 Robert Townsend film, The Five Heartbeats, Derice Bannock in the 1993 film, Cool Runnings, and as Shep in the 1994 basketball drama film, Above the Rim.
Mayfield
Dottie
Photographer : Jose Pagan Model : Dottie Mayfield Blacklight photo experiment
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Photographer : Jose Pagan Model : Melissa DeRosa
DeRosa
Melissal
Nestle
Snipes
Licas
Jessica
Photographer: Jose Pagan Model: Jessica Licas Jessica has represented brands such as Lane Bryant, Marco Hall and Nordstroms and has been seen on QVC.
Binea
Model: Kwame Binea Kwame is a Mix Rock and Roll with Silky Soul singer. Kwame and the band are currently putting finishing touches their debut LP, due out early 2017. The Album includes a stellar colaboration with Grammy award winning Guitarist/ Producer Vernon Reid.
Kwame
Photographer: Jose Pagan
Jojo
West
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Lena
Edwards
Phillips
Nedra
Peltier
Jolaina
Photographer: Jose Pagan Model: Jolaina Peltier Designer: Katie K. Active
SOMETHING COMING TO CREATIVMAG
BIG
IS
Miss Haiti Universe
Raquel PELISSIER comes to Florida 50 | CREATIV | Dec - Jan 2017 | www.creativmag.com
efore she was celebrated as Haiti’s heroine, before she was celebrated around the world, before she became first runner up of the 65th edition of Miss Universe, she was here with us in Miami, greeting her fans and spreading love to every soul that would listen.
B
We have been privileged to be among the few to have met Miss Haiti in transition to the Philippines. Raquel Pelissier took the decision early last year to represent her country on a platform viewed around the world, The 65th Miss Universe Pageant. Raquel is 25 years old with a degree in Optometry and pursuing a master’s degree in scientific research. Her love for her country pushed her to participate the Miss Universe Pageant, a life long dream of hers that she was able to strike off her bucket list. Raquel exudes of positivity.During her brief meet and greet here in South Florida, she was able to explain a bit more about what her platform represents. She supports children’s education and was able to donate 300 books to the students of Saint Antoine in Port au Prince. She wants to make sure that the children of Haiti continue to receive a great education “for without education there is no future” she stated. Her goal is to inspire young people, men and women, in Haiti to let them know they are beautiful, intelligent
and they are worth it. One thing that keeps her going is the support she receives from her family, friends and fans. She often reads the messages left on her social media which are often words of encouragement and support. Regarding her fashion, she represented quite a few designers from Haiti, however the dress she wore for her final walk was made by FERNANDO DIEGO MARIN and she definitely shone through and through on the Miss Universe stage. The final scene where it was up to her and Miss France, the whole world was in accord finally anticipating a win for Haiti. She answered each question with grace and intellect that left the crowd in awe and cheering her on. She referenced her struggles post the 2010 earthquake and reassured us that despite your shortcomings you must always follow your dreams. She is truly a role model to many of us, women especially, knowing that if we apply ourselves and truly put our mind to it, we can achieve anything. It is truly a victory for Haiti, as it has been 42 years since we have seen this moment. Hosted by Steve Harvey the show aired on January 30th on FOX. Raquel Pelissier will remain Miss Universe Haiti for the year 2017 and will continue to work to advance education in Haiti. We can only wish her success in her endeavors and hope to see the fruits of her labor in the year to come.
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Miss UNIVERSE
Highlights
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Miss Universe | Featured
Story
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Preperation is
FUNDAMENTAL WE GO BEHIND THE SCENES TO BRING YOU THE FASHION HIGHTLIGHTS OF 65TH MISS UNIVERSE COMPETITION HELD IN CEBU
T Steve Harvey returns as the host of the 65th Edition of Miss Universe.
1
he Miss Universe contestants are touring, filming, rehearsing and preparing to compete for the Miss Universe crown in the Philippines. (Photos by Mark Sullivan, Alex Mertz Universe Organization via WME IMG Collection) 5|Estefania Bernal, Miss Universe Argentina 2016 gets hair done by stylist, Anna Cantu from CHI Haircare backstage during the 65th MISS UNIVERSE® Preliminary Competition at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, January 25, 2017
3 5
1 | Miss Universe Miss USA, Deshauna Barber, walks the runway during a swimsuit fashion show at Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark in Cebu, Philippines on Tuesday, January 17. 3 | Miss Universe Brazil, Raissa Santana, during fashion show in Vigan,Philippines on January 15, 2017.
4
2 02 FASHION MAGAZINE
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6
4 | Cheryl Chou, Miss Universe Singapore 2016; and Li Zhen Ying, Miss Universe China 2016 backstage during the 65th MISS UNIVERSE® Preliminary Competition at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, January 25, 2017 2 | Miss Universe Slovak Republic, Zuzana Kollarova, arrives for the Governor's Ball in Manila, Philippines on January 16, 2017.
6 |Miss Universe Venezuela, Mariam Habach, on the runway during the Davao fashion show held in Davao, Philippines on January 19, 2017
7 |Miss Universe Kosovo, Camila Barraza wears a gown by designer Sherri Hill while visiting Fort Santiago in the Philippines on January 16th, 2017.
13
10 | Miss Universe Ukraine, Alena Spodynyuk, on the runway during the Davao fashion show held in Davao, Philippines on January 19, 2017
10
7 8
11 | Muneka Joy Cruz Taisipic, Miss Universe Guam 2016 gets makeup done by a MAC Cosmetics artist backstage during the 65th MISS UNIVERSE® Preliminary Competition at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, January 25, 2017
8 |Miss Universe Barbados, Shannon Harris, on the runway during the National Gift Auction fashion show at the Conrad Hotel in Manila, Philippines on January 23, 2017
11
12 | Valeria Piazza, Miss Universe Peru 2016 on stage during rehearsal of the 65th MISS UNIVERSE® Competition at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, January 28, 2017.
9 9 |Miss Universe Nigeria, Unoaku Anyadike, on the runway during the National Gift Auction fashion show at the Conrad Hotel in Manila, Philippines on January 23, 2017.
13 | Host Steve Harvey and Raissa Santana, Miss Universe Brazil 2016 on stage during rehearsal at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, January 28, 2017
14 14 | Miss Universe Malaysia, Kiran Jassal, during fashion show in Vigan,Philippines on January 15, 2017. (Photo by Mark Sullivan/Miss Universe Organization via WME IMG Collection)
12
15
15 | Maxine Medina, Miss Universe Philippines 2016 on the red carpet before The 65th MISS UNIVERSE®
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The best looking
GOWNS
VIRGINIA ARGUETA, MISS UNIVERSE GUATEMALA
REBECCA RATH, MISS UNNIVERSE BELIZE
IDA OVMAR, MISS UNIVERSE SWEDEN
NTANDOYENKOSI KUNENE, MISS UNIVERSE SOUTH AFRICA
LINDITA IDRIZI, MISS UNIVERSE ALBANIA
ROSHMITHA HARIMURTHY, MISS UNIVERSE INDIA
RAQUEL PELISSIER, MISS UNIVERSE HAITI
BRENDA JIMENEZ, MISS UNIVERSE PUERTO RICO
SOYINI FRASER, MISS UNIVERSE GUYANA
ZOEY IVORY, MISS UNIVERSE NETHERLANDS
VERONIKA BODIZS, MISS UNIVERSE HUNGARY
SARI NAKAZAWA, MISS UNIVERSE
MARIAM HABACH, MISS UNIVERSE VENEZUELA
MONYQUE BROOKS, MISS UNIVERSE CAYMAN ISLANDS
CHALITA SUANSANE, MISS UNIVERSE THAILAND
CATALINA PAZ CACERES, MISS UNIVERSE CHILE
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How to make a bikini
LOOK GOOD!
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Magdalena Cohendet, Miss Universe Uruguay 2016; Deshauna Barber, Miss USA 2016; Carolyn Carter, Miss US Virgin Islands 2016; Mariam Habach, Miss Universe Venezuela 2016; and Le Hang, Miss Universe Vietnam 2016; compete on stage in Yamamay swimwear featuring footwear by Chinese Laundry during the 65th MISS UNIVERSEÂŽ Preliminary Competition at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, January 25, 2017.
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The most creative
COSTUMES
H
Htet Htet Htun, Miss Universe Myanmar 2016 debuts her National Costume on stage at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, January 26, 2017. To demonstrate her creativity, she represented a marionnette on strings. She also stated that it is very heavy and weighs 40 kilos. Congratulations Miss Myanmar for winning BEST COSTUME! Pia Wurtzbach takes her final walk as Miss Universe 2015
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Crowning the
WINNER!
Runner-up Raquel Pelissier, Miss Universe Haiti 2016; congratulates Iris Mittenaere, Miss Universe France 2016 Iris Mittenaere, Miss Universe France 2016 is crowned Miss Universe at the conclusion The 65th MISS UNIVERSEÂŽ
Andrea Tovar, Miss Universe Colombia 2016; Iris Mittenaere, Miss Universe France 2016; and Raquel Pelissier, Miss Universe Haiti 2016;
NICOLE M
FASHION DESIGNER NICOLE MILLER SHOWCASED HER NEW SPRING COLLECTION IN MIAMI BEACH AND CREATIV
O
On January 7th, in a presentation put together by FRONT MANAGEMENT, Nicole Miller presented her new collection. Bohemian chic with a sophisticated flair. From top to bottom it was nothing but pure bliss. A little bit about celebrity designer Nicole Miller: With a degree in fine arts from The Rhode Island School of Design and a degree from l' École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture Parisienne in Paris, Nicole Miller combines her art training with couture technique. This, along with her French heritage, has given her a unique style and vision. Her irreverent style of clothing has been worn by celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Joss Stone, Jennifer Aniston, BeyoncÊ, Blake Lively and Eva
Longoria among others. Philanthropically minded, Nicole supports primarily environmental causes such as Waterkeeper and Rocky Mountain Institute as well as many children's charities. When not designing, Nicole is an avid skier, wake-boarder, traveler, and foodie. She lives with her husband Kim and their son Palmer in New York City, spending weekends in Sag Harbor. [source: www. nicolemiller.com] As a celebrity designer she has been featured in the most prestigious fashion weeks and her pieces are sold around the world.
MILLER WAS THERE TO CAPTURE THE ACTION. HERE IS A SAMPLE OF ASSORTED DRESSES OF HER RESORT COLLECTION
Photography by Sean Simpson
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Nicole Miller | Featured
Story
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DISCOVER THE REAL YOU TAKE THE LIMITS OF YOUR LIFE AND COME EXPERIENCE THE "AUTOBAHN EFFECT"
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Q A &
With
Erika Rachel Photography provided by Marcello Bernardes and Jeffrey Baxter
Discovered Talents |
Erika Rachel
W
Whenever a woman is following her dreams or developing her talents, we must cheer her on. Meet Erika Rachel, she is a self-taught abstract artist who decided to become a full time artist professionally in early 2013 as a means of supporting herself after a difficult divorce and the loss of her father. She has definitely been around and is gaining tremendous popularity. Erika has been covered by press outlets such as L’Etage Magazine (“Conception Contemporary Art Fair in NYC”), The Bucks County Herald ("A-Space Gallery's Solo Artist is Self-Made”), Posture Magazine (Winter Mendelson Editor-in-Chief: “You’re Invited: Erika Rachel’s Closing Reception”), and Crafty 88’s ("Interview with Artist Erika Rachel”). And her work has been exhibited at the Guild Hall Museum (East Hampton, NY), Ashawagh Hall (East Hampton, NY), Paul Labrecque (UES, NYC), Dop Dop (Soho, NYC), Art Expo (Pier 94, NYC), Artworks (Trenton, NJ), Hopewell Valley Vineyards (Pennington NJ), Prallsville Mills (Stockton, NJ), and annually at The “A” Space Gallery (New Hope, PA). We had the privilege of catching up with Erika to get to know her a little bit better what follows is a conversation that would leave you inspired. 1- They say that artists create out of emotions. Seems like your art stems from the struggle that you have enduring your divorce. Do you continue to draw out talent from these painful emotions? To some degree, I think every artist uses their work as an outlet. Everyone goes through tough times, not just artists, but as they say “life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” So, I guess you could say I made lemonade out of lemons. That’s where I started, but my work has evolved into much more than that. Its a way for me to express my concepts and views in a way that people can connect and relate . 2 What is your thought process when you paint? I do a lot of exploring in my practice as a painter, so a lot of times I’m experimenting with techniques, tools, and mediums. While I’m painting, I try to pay attention to the physical, emotional and even spiritual response I have to what I’m doing. A particular technique or tool I’m using might feed me and feel right, but sometimes I’m frustrated by the experience or the artistic result. When that happens, I either try to push myself through the frustration, or surrender to it and move in another direction.
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3 Do you only paint abstract art? I’ve worked in other mediums like photography and silkscreen, and have a really strong desire to start a sculptural multimedia piece about influence, information, and change. So, be on the lookout for more than just abstracts from me in the future.
Stay true to yourself, be willing to explore
4 Your clients are from all walks of life, have you ever had a famous client own your art? If so are you allowed to say who? We are curious to know. I have a very special relationship with those who have purchased my work. Some are “high profile” and when it comes to them, I respect their efforts to keep private what they want to keep private. I’ve learned that “money talks and wealth whispers”, but the clients who are happy to publicize their collections are listed on my CV. 5 Your work has exhibited in galleries in the US, however have you ever exhibited abroad if so where?
Solo Show Prallsville Mills June 2016
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I have my eyes on a few foreign locations, but I haven't booked anything outside the US just yet. I had a chance to show in Germany, but it didn't feel like the right opportunity. The markets I’d like to be in or be working towards in 2017 are Shanghai, Berlin, Switzerland, and Dubai. 6 Do you usually expect people to get a message from your art? There’s usually a rich backstory to my work, whether it’s the concept that sparked a series like how complimentary character traits in couples influence the “Compatibility Series”, or the monumental shift I had with my mom during one of her visit that influenced a set I painted titled “Mom’s Arrival” and “Mom’s Departure”. Abstracts are open for interpretation, and even with the aid of evocative titles they often need a narrative to clearly convey the artist’s intended message. But I think every artist is happy to know that their work is being appreciated and seen.
7 Do you have artists that you admire if so who? I admire Zoe Lecchei, Albrecht Behmel, Sharon Louden, and Faith Ringgold. 8 You mentioned that you were self-taught, did you ever think to learn art on a professional level to perfect your craft or are we looking at just pure talent? I would love to be better at my craft, and art school would be a great way to do that. But I’ve accepted my way of learning, which is very much hands-on, learning by doing, and I haven't found a school environment yet that I feel is suitable.
9 Where do you see your art taking you? When I was of school age, I had zero exposure to contemporary art. I was grateful to be asked recently to speak to a few classes of high school students about my career as an abstract artist. I realized from that experience that now, even more than when I was younger, kids need exposure to creative fields. Art programs are being cut all over. When I first became an artist, my dream was to inspire young people to go after their dreams. I thought the only way to make a difference and be seen was to be an art celebrity, like Andy Warhol. What I’ve realized since is that you don't have to be that big to make an impact. I can reach people directly through my work, my speaking engagements, and my workshops to make that important difference for young people.
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It would be nice to experience some residencies and show in different parts of the world, to be influenced by different cultures and to experience things that allow me a greater perspective of the world at large to help grow my ability to make work that speaks to people on a human level.
10 Should a young artist follow in your footsteps what would you tell them? From a personal standpoint, I’d say to stay true to yourself, be willing to explore, get mentors, be flexible, and never give up. From a practical standpoint, I’d say make sure you have a way of supporting yourself so you can give everything to your art without having to compromise for money or survival…at least until your art can support you. From a business standpoint, I would say connect with fellow artists you admire, ask them questions, learn how galleries work, get your pricing figured out, network, be professional but personable, and I’ll repeat NEVER GIVE UP!
Happy Monday
Family Time
Fork Miniature
Bust and sculpture ("Widow") were done by Bruce Hoheb in '68. The bust is of my father, who passed in 2012. It is no doubt that here at CREATIV we are lovers of art especially abstract. We encourage our readers to support artists like her by visiting them and purchasing their work. “My clients are from all walks of life but share a desire for a beautiful and sophisticated home.� Her work is beautiful not only at home but anywhere you feel that art can accentuate a room. To know about Erika Rachel visit her website at www.erikarachel.com
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Compatibility Series- Man Meets Woman
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Discovered Talents |
Thabiti
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By
Thabiti
THE WORLD OF
Thabiti An artist with an interesting mind
A.
R.T Live is an extension of CREATIV, where indie artists are able to showcase their work and have the opportunity to be featured in media outlets in their community. Such is the story of Thabiti. In the latest event orchestrated by A.R.T. Live we were able to pick Thabiti as one of the best abstract artists showcasing that night. Thabiti Harris was born in Clarendon Jamaica June 23 1994. The young music producer and painter picked up producing when he was only 15 and started painting at 19. His modern mixture of hip hop and electronic music surly made him stand out in south floridas growing music scene. The multi talented artist has dreams of aspiring to levels never seen before in both art and music. Darth Lennon
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C- When did you start painting? T- I started painting in 2014. However I started developing my artistic skills from a very young age. C- What is your inspiration for your abstract art? T- Well my art is not abstract, it is very lucid it gives you that feel in a way but also cannot ignore the very detailed images depicted. C- Is there a process or a ritual that you go through before painting? T - I may meditate from time to time but other than that I'm usually always in my mode and ready to kill it. C- Do your art come with a particular meaning? T- Theres a big meaning to it,my art is a unveiling of historical truths that have been neglected and put aside. My depiction on how present events effected mankind and how it will effect future events
C- Do you have any famous artists that you look up to? C- They say that artists usually draw from T- Theres plenty of artists I could name when it comes to customization and pain to express themselves is there a fashion. John born yeahlano if those emotional moment that you draw from? names ring a bell. As far as my art overall T- I use the emotions from a lot of the music I the message I'm trying to get across I have listen to and the music I create myself yet to see another artist in the same ball park . C- Where do you see your art taking you in the next year or so? C- Have you ever exposed your art in T- Next year I see my art GOING GLOBAL, I any gallery if so where? believe it.
T- I have featured and collaborated with a lot of events this year as far as galleries I have not had a chance to get placements in any yet but hoping it will happen soon. C- What final words would you have for an aspiring artist? T- Art is a amazing outlet and if it's what you want to do you must be prepared to where it takes you for its an undiscovered science that can become overwhelming without the right discipline.
Writer's Corner |
Travel in style
OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW….VACATION IDEAS!
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W
ith the start of a new year come new opportunities and new resolutions. How about new vacation options? One of the biggest challenges, besides deciding when to take a vacation, is deciding where to go on your vacation. You can do the Caribbean, Europe, or even go somewhere within the U.S. However, there’s more fun in doing something different when you get there or going to a destination for a specific reason.
written by Showeshi Boston
Wine and Food Events Perhaps a festival isn’t your thing, but your wine connoisseur or a foodie. LocalWineEvents.com can help you find events in your area and abroad. Sign up for their newsletter called The Juice and get weekly updates of events taking place in the destinations you choose. You’ll be amazed at how many events are available locally and elsewhere that could enhance either a staycation or a vacation.
National Parks Have you been to see the giant sequoias or the redwood groves in California? What about Old Faithful at Yellowstone? Been to the Grand Canyon? There’s so much to see within the United States alone and the lesser traveled destinations by many are our national parks. Having just celebrated their 100th Anniversary, U.S. national parks should be a must see for everyone, whether you are the outdoorsy type or not. In fact, with glamping becoming the new camping trend, you can camp in style and comfort while enjoying some of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see. The National Park Service (www.nps.gov) provides a wealth of information to help you find the right park to explore and get rejuvenated.
Be Spontaneous Take a vacation of a lifetime Festivals There are literally thousands of festivals held around the world all year long. Everything from music and art festivals to food, beer, and wine festivals. Wherever piques your interest there is a festival that can meet your needs. The trick is finding the right festival at the right time. Festivalnet (www.festivalnet.com) is a great resource for locating festivals that cover home and garden, arts and crafts, and music, shopping trips, and more. Mapfest (mapfest.com) focuses solely on music festivals. Both allow you to search for festivals that are taking place around the world. This makes it easier to find something fun and unique to do in any destination you select.
Voluntourism Take being a tourist and add in being a volunteer. Now you have the latest trend in travel – Voluntourism, traveling with a purpose by helping others. There’s any number of things you can do as a voluntourist. You can help build schools, gardens, helps communities get fresh water supplies, and much, much more. You can do voluntourism in numerous destinations. The only requirements are a willing spirit and a strong desire to help. Talk to your personal Travel Consultant to find out about opportunities in a variety of destinations. Take a moment to determine when you want to take your vacation, then decide what new and exciting way you’ll spend that vacation time. Take advantage of offers that are being promoted throughout the first few months of this year and you’ll walk away with the vacation of a lifetime! www.creativmag.com | Dec - Jan 2017 | CREATIV | 89
Writer's Corner |
Empowerement
In The Fullness Of
Time “But when the fullness of time had come…” This statement seems simplistic but is of such enormous worth. It suggests the coming of age of a long overdue pregnancy; the actual moment of birthing with a “you-know-howlong-I-have-been-waiting-for-this!” punctuation. In this single moment in time, everything comes to a standstill and at least for now, absolutely nothing else matters. Boy am I waiting with eager anticipation for a few of those! Happy, Happy, Happy New Year to you! So grateful we crossed the threshold into 2017. For some of you this progression represents a new day, a new era, a new season, a changing of the guards of some sorts. For others, it is the perfect opportunity to reset that button
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and to start all over again. For a few of us though, this New Year represents a coming of age in more ways than one. There are some things that we have been waiting to achieve, some breakthroughs we have been diligently hoping to see manifest and some answers we have been waiting with bated breaths to see spring forth. The wait has been a long and arduous one. Many have given up; perhaps have even thrown in the towel. Many have lost hope along the way. Many have walked away. Many have run out of patience and energy and resources, even time; at least in their minds.
When I first came across this very pregnant statement in The Human’s Manual For Living, I was completely captivated by its implication. “But when the fullness of time had come…” (Galatians 4:4) is a very loaded statement that was surmised by Paul, The Apostle, in His letter to the new and fledgling converts in the city of Galatia, concerning God sending His Son into the world. Were you to do a genealogical study of the life of Jesus, you would discover, based on historical documentation that the length of time between the first mention of God sending His Son (Genesis 3:15) and His Son’s actual coming, was approximately 4,000 years! Can you imagine? Were you to read this same statement in different versions of The Manual, you would quickly find a very vivid picture emerging; at least I did. The New Life Version presents it as, “But at the right time…”; the Message Version – “But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father…”; the Expanded Version – “But when the right [appropriate, appointed] time came…”; and, the Amplified Version – “But when [in God’s plan] the proper time had fully come…” Can you begin to see where this is going? For many of you in waiting, the enormity of the process has been overwhelming (sheesh, I’ve been waiting and praying for a husband since turning 23 years old. I am now 40!) Yet, there is something that is very vital and worthwhile drawing from this statement. When the fullness of time is come connotes that the timing is right; that everything is perfectly aligned; that all components are in position; and, that everything that is needed to support the arrival of that promise is now in place. Nothing good happens before the right time. The consequences of things being precipitated or forced to occur out of season are often disastrous. Half-ripen fruits are never palatable to the tastebuds and sometimes can wreak havoc on the digestive system. To come into a thing before the due season can and generally does lead to loss and accompanying regret. The stories of this dynamic are too numerous to ignore.
Just recently it dawned on me that it’s not that my prayers are not being heard; it’s just that the factor or factors needed to facilitate the desired response are not yet in place. For more than 300 years the children of Israel cried to God for deliverance from the hands of the merciless slave masters in Egypt. The initial response came in the 350th year when the one who was destined to bring deliverance was born. It would take another 80 years for Moses to begin the exodus of his people out of slavery and into a land that was destined to be their own. During their period of waiting and crying out to God and pleading for His intervention, it wasn’t that God had not heard them, nor had He not seen their pain and anguish. The deliverer had not yet arrived and until then, they simply had to wait. “But when the fullness of time had come…” There is a season to everything and a time for every purpose pertaining to your life. Sometimes it is hard to believe again, to hope again, to even trust again and yet, this current season is calling for you to do just that. Don’t miss it. Shalom!
Written by GEORGIA BRYCE Georgia A. Bryce is the Founder of Building According To Pattern, LLC and the Bryce Legacy Group. As a certified Personal and Professional Development Coach, Thought Strategist and Transformational Speaker, her thrust is towards helping clients discover their own unique blue-print and personal authority and guiding them into building their lives by design. Her specialty is in the areas of self-discovery, purpose, vision, leadership, and legacy development. For group and individualized coaching, or to book Ms. Bryce as a keynote speaker or workshop facilitator, contact her at 786-471-8312.
Writer's Corner |
Love and Relationships
LOOKING FOR LOVE IN ALL THE YOUNG PLACES The Scoop on Why Older Women are Open to Dating Younger Men.
So, we hear it all the time. We get it from all races, genders and people in general: Age IS nothing but a number. But how true is that? Does age really matter when it comes to finding true love? Is dating someone significantly younger than you an issue when you want your physical and emotional needs fulfilled? Well, I talked to some women who gave me the “tea” on why they date men who may be…well…fully grown to the eyes, but not fully seasoned well beyond the legal drinking age.
make trying to have a healthy relationship difficult. One of the women stated,
I sat down with 7 women who are in their mid to late 30s and who have all dated a man younger than them at some point in their dating lives. To sum up a 2-hour conversation over wine, they all pretty much responded with the rhetorical question, “Why not?” All the women interviewed had dated men their age, and/or older, and said that they’ve experienced some of the same issues that
And then, I got hit with it from all different angles, pitches and tones, “That’s why it doesn’t matter WHAT his age is!”
“I was in a relationship for five years with a man that was 12 years older than me. Things didn’t work out because he was a habitual cheater.” I followed that with, “Won’t a younger man do the same? Especially because he may not be done ‘playing the field’?”
So here’s what I got out of my experience from women with different perspectives but similar beliefs:
TONI DOUGLAS
Toni is in pursuit of obtaining her Doctorate degree in the field of Education while also pursuing her goals of publishing her first book, "What NOT to Do While Dating Your Non-Existent Boyfriend."
s room ha , the bed im d t l. e a g g ts y le d the ligh ho is full oment an ge with a man w m on a r young es, not no limits ow old o h r e tt xperienc a e m h o it n w n s e e ill be m ility com t be a 1. Men w esponsib e will no R g . a cially 3 is h , u ing finan ussed nces in e e b r . , s h fe they are. to do right by yo s if it e d n w c e e old is y be som age ics we dis en I spok If a man there ma fe because of an otter top inpointed that the wom , h f s e e O Y th . f r o to li s one an. We p , huge fac ooks on ects you, stable wa ounger m shing good credit es or outl n loves and resp y c n a e ie g th r n e s ti s p a a e li d ex . b m in e n p ta g a e s p a h if e e, d to the ha e w e, but ills on tim . was not attache b their differenc not play a part in ample, one of th g n in o y a l based , etc ex e p il h r ly le s w o e F ib e is ty s . g li w e n a e r o g fid his it. It esp ndu spendin out the in e was. w to be r ell they deal with u are to e b o o a h y d f n e r o a lk o h tw w le le n out, d ta ns terviewe st Peop eriences and how e opinions throw older tha e in n n a n o e h m m a w o w th ho ting life exp when it ased on a part in while da hen a egligent to say, b n W not play . ir e endured erb e b id fa b d s n r a a ld e c w of a prov g old ages t he cou , h ll in e r g e a ip e b u f h h o o s n w n im th e o H l and en els lati that me e, “A foo llar. I ev not seek to the re o m d e d ti u n e a tr to th it d e n to a y that, tim omm comes safe to sa ers from eady to c ’s r tt it u is k r e n in a th m t. my mo part.” I th and not just the o just tha y MUST he will d ll ages his mone men of a ood. to s e f li o p t h that ap full heigh ring man sex. wly ente ed at the e is iv 2. Sex is n r way h r s , a e y s n it a r o not shy a y an h matu o l d a t ic a e s y th th h Once a m an tch of p men cies for m to and age up to ma e are wo en e r t p e h m s g th d u le , n a a ll a c a , puberty rm be age men All in past the e younge d should h e wth. Wo th r it o a g w r n g l n e e l ti g a a m manhoo d it ey n se ething from ehind ge w well th ng as the igarette, it’s som lo o l S a . u s x science b ncerned with ho n e c s a reaso while in co women, d smoke give a try alike, are xually. For some success of a drink an , to g te o n v li il se en are w e size of nt in the someone that wom ue love. paramou saying, th has t is u y o h tr it is chem d age ch of tr t goes w hip. Tha ortant an s or being sear relations italia is also imp 0 9 n in the gen eing bor a man’s b in the h e it ’r w u o o to d hen y w t, u p nothing ly 0s. Simp in your 9
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Writer's Corner |
Artistic Entrepreneuship
Resolution?! Get it Done With a Revolution
I
It has been 5 years since I last set a resolution for the new year let alone thought of one. I set and revise mine all year though it is the norm to do it in bulk during this time of year. Walking through Tarjet (Target for the unsophisticated, lol) I saw a mother and daughter analyzing the grams of fat on the back of a Nutella jar. That is when I realized my absence to the ceremonious act. Moreover, I became curious as to why doesn't the craze affect me any longer? What changed? And am I missing out? First, I decided to look at the word resolution and what truly meant. According to Webster's online dictionary, resolution means "a decision to do or not to do something". A powerful statement in of itself reading it aloud. Making it is a mystery as to why resolutions seem to have an inefficacious result by the 7th of January. Based on the powerful emotion the definition outputs one should be able to pin out the one area of their lives they want absolutely resolved and make a definitive decision the change should stick. Sadly, studies have shown it to only find less than 1% of those with a strong resolution survive it beyond the sixth month. Except for those, like me, who decided to stop engaging. Those numbers could possibly be staggering.
written by
Emonde Prosper
Contrastly, the dictionary defines revolution as a forcible overthrow of a social order (or government) in favor of a new system. Scary, isn't it?! The image of a whole entire village or town being turned upside down and inside out comes to mind. Understandably, we associate revolution with so much negativity because of these thoughts. Still, look around you. As a nation -wherever you are in the world- how did that place
come to be but through a major change? Now bring it closer to home and imagine the savviest business leader, the most powerful performing artist; or even the most amazing mother and ask them what was asked of them to be consistent? Guaranteed, they each will describe becoming best of the best.Which means shedding their old self-the parts no longer useful- in order to become a new person, the best version of themselves. Furthermore, revolutions require others around you to also plan, coordinate and participate within the process. It is a group project and the group must believe the change will bring out better effectiveness and in turn also assist in putting out effort. With resolutions the person many times is working solo and dealing with the surface only. Revolutions require a complete uphaul. First, digging up the cause to the problem, planning the best custom solution then, giving space for a new system to take its place. Within the book, The Greatest Salesman In The World" by Og Mandino it reads: "...nature's law that only a habit can subdue another habit." With that, whatever you have decided for this year take a look at your goals again, do some research on a habit to replace the old one with and most importantly, learn what has been holding you back. This time, add your revolutionary team then finally go for it. Even if you broke that resolution already. Start again. We won't judge. ;)
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