PHOTOGRAPHY STORIES THROUGH FASHION
THOMAS BERNAVIL AND KEL FASHION
The Twisted MIND Of
t h c e r Alb Behmel
ARE STYLISH SPORTY GARMENTS A THING?!
MEGHAN CAMPBELL discovered talents:
KELLY WALKER
Common's KISSY Face At Miami Gardens Fest
NEW YORK - MARCH 24, 2015:Mural art by Brazilian Mural Artist Eduardo Kobra recruits Pop art legend Andy Warhol and 80s art superstar Jean-Michel Basquiat to Fight For Street Art in Brooklyn
EDITOR'S
The
BOLD issue
A
Are you seeing this, or am I dreaming? Do you realize that we have a celebrity on our cover. It is quite an honor really, Albrecht Behmel came to us by means of Lynn Hutchins, and I couldn’t be more excited. Albrecht combined two of my favorite things, Comics and Abstract, I mean what more can I ask for. I didn’t hesitate to put him on the cover because he certainly deserves it. He is the kind of man that takes the leap of faith and free fall into his dreams of becoming an artist. Many of us may have that dream but how many really will jump.
On another note, Miami Gardens is the home of Jazz In The Gardens. Many celebrities graced the stage, taking us back to the 90s where Hip Hop was at its peak. We give you front stage access to the best performances of the year featuring LL Cool J, Jill Scott, Robin Thicke and many more. We’ve also took it upon ourselves to feature a spread from photographer Thomas Bernavil, though he claimed to have wanting to play around with his lens, his delivery is flawless, the pictures tell a story, the story of a woman betrayed by her man for another woman. We thought this was a pretty interesting story as it is the one of many women today. We are ecstatic about giving you our 19th issue, we are getting closer to our 20th issue and we can’t contain ourselves. It’s been two years and we have made so much progress, amassed so many readers and featured so many artists and we couldn’t be more proud. Like always this issue could not have been possible without the contribution of our writers and photographers. Ladies and gentlemen we give you CREATIVMAG’s 19th’ issue.
CORHINN BRUNOT Founder and Editor in Chief Follow me on Twitter @ccwcnetwork
letter
4 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
WORK Until you no Longer Have to
INTRODUCE YOURSELF
CONT RIBU TORS 1 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 predesigned for them. Her messages are geared towards empowering individuals, through the process of selfdiscovery 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
2 Toni Douglas
1
3
Known by most as "Toni". For eleven years, Toni served her Showeshi Boston community as a high Showeshi Strickland-Boston, school English teacher and an ACC, is a certified and accredited Instructional Reading Coach for Travel Consultant with 13 years Miami-Dade of experience in the travel County Public Schools. industry, beginning with close to Currently, Toni is in pursuit of 10 years with Royal Caribbean publishing her first book, Cruises, Ltd., before opening her Controlling Your Crazy While own full-service travel agency as Dating Your Non-Existent a Cruise Planners and American Boyfriend. In her spare Express Travel Representative. time, Toni enjoys shopping, Her industry experience has traveling and writing. In included managing and addition to writing for overseeing divisions focusing on CREATIV magazine, she serves sales, marketing and training as the blogger for The which included training and Millionheiress Club and Keva development of Sales Managers J Swimwear. One day, Toni for Royal Caribbean and fellow aspires to be an esteemed author Travel Agents. Traveling has and public speaker. been a life-long passion, fueled For the mini bio on the article: by on-going education within the Toni is in pursuit of publishing field that allows Ms. Stricklandher first book, Boston to provide personalized, Controlling Your Crazy While informed, consultative and Dating Your Non-Existent expert travel planning to her Boyfriend. clients. For more information about her agency, visit the agency's website at www.CruiseElite.com.
6 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
2
4 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
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IN THIS ISSUE
FEB -MAR 2017 VISUAL ARTS
62
Up Art 18 Pop Abstract Art , A brief introduction of Kelly Walker
FASHION PHOTORGAPHY
Albrecht Behmel
Up Photography 22 Pop "BOHO CHIC"
Celebrity Abstract Artist
by photographer Herbert Tucker
Way She Wants It 30 The An artistic presentation by photographer Thomas Bernavil
FEATURED STORIES Highlight 48 Special The Story of Ole Bijoux Photographed by Richard Lecoin
contents
Story 62 Cover Getting to know celebrity Artist
12 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
Albrecht Behmel
Presentation 72 Fashion Sports never looked so stylish Designer Meghan Campbell
CITY HAPPENINGS Events 82 Artistic Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival
WRITER'S CORNER in style 88 Traveling The Travel Ban and You by Showeshi Boston
90 Empowerment When Eagles Fly by Georgia Bryce
and Relationships 92 Love Dry Those Eyes! by Toni Douglas
Entrepreneurship 94 Artistic Setting that legacy example by Emonde Prosper
Photo by Sean Simpson
Read Our Blog
82
Find exclusive pictures of musical artists from the Jazz In The Gardens Festival on our blog creativmag.com Read the full article in this isssue on page:
COVER CREDITS SELF PORTRAIT Subject photographed : ALBRECHT BEHMEL
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 Richard Lecoin Thomas Bernavil Herbert Tucker Kenny Jean Baptiste
JUNE 17TH 2017 14 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
ADVERTISEMENT
Pop-up Art |
Abstract Artist Kelly Walker
elly started painting in 2002. After a long time working in collage & shadowbox type work. Getting hired as an apprentice at a decorative painting studio is what began her work in paint. Her inspiration for abstract stems from the world around her and her internal condition. Lately she’s been painting fantasy destinations similar to her vacation series - or physically working out the stresses of running a business & balancing payroll, the constant lists, bank statements, e-mails, invoices, proposals, etc. found in her life code series. “My Artstar series references windows, buildings.”
K
We’ve asked her if she had a ritual that she usually follows before painting, she generally lights a fire if it’s winter, put on a podcast or music and write an intention on a work before she begins painting. If it’s summer, she goes on a bike ride & clears her mind of all of built up tasks before beginning work.
lly
Ke
When it comes to giving her art meaning she prefers leaving it up to the beholder, as they will formulate their own feelings based on the feelings developed while looking at her art. In the next year or so, she would like to create work on a larger scale and sell to commercial buildings & architects/designers. Highly influenced by the decorative arts, the sky is the limit when it comes to her art.
r
lke
Wa
She stated that her art has been bought by celebrities, alas will not reveal who they are however she has exposed her art in many art galleries and museum such as the Delaware Museum of Art, Goucher College, Baltimore Museum of Art, Both solo & Group shows. As an aspiring artist, she urges you to “Keep trying, don’t over think and take action.” Artists cannot be tamed and express themselves in forms that only they can understand, we just learn to appreciate that form of expression and wish them success along their indefinite journey.
For more on Kelly visit : kellywalkerfineart.com
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Pop-up Art |
Abstract Artist Kelly Walker
PLENTY
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NORTHERN LIGHTS
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LET OUR MAG SHOW YOUR ART
B BOHO
CHIC Photography by Herbert Tucker. Capturing the essense of beauty in models, wearing his clothing line.
B
Pop-up Photography |
Herbert Tucker
Photographer / Stylist Herbert Tucker Model Katrina Johnson Agency K2 Models Hair and Makeup Jordyn Pinto Editor Rahul Pandit All clothing and accessories from Golden.Bar Boutique
24 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
Photographer / Stylist Herbert Tucker Model Katrina Johnson Agency K2 Models Hair and Makeup Jordyn Pinto Editor Rahul Pandit All clothing and accessories from Golden. Bar Boutique
Photographer / Stylist Herbert Tucker Model Katrina Johnson Agency K2 Models Hair and Makeup Jordyn Pinto Editor Rahul Pandit All clothing and accessories from Golden. Bar Boutique
www.creativmag.com | Feb - Mar 2017 | CREATIV | 27
The last day of March doesn't end the celebration...
KEEP QUEENI OUR STRENGTH IS IN OUR HISTORY
NG
Fashion Photography |
Thomas and Kel
Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Model: SUZETTE JAMES Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio
The way wants
she
when one designer's will to succeed transforms into art, we can only help ourselves in capturing this creativiy on film. KEL FASHION a brand birthed by the mind of KERLINE JEAN BAPTISTE, is one of the most interesting emerging designers in Miami, and is definitely one to keep an eye on.
it
Photographs by THOMAS BERNAVIL
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My heart wants what it wants
Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Model: SUZETTE JAMES, TIMothy richardson Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio
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Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Model: SUZETTE JAMES, TIMothy richardson Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio
My heart longs for another
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The flesh is weak but the mind is strong
Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Model: TIMothy richardson Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio 36 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
The flesh....
L
ooking at her, your first thoughts would be, a woman of talent and fortune with a bright future ahead of her ‌such were the words we uttered the first time we've introduced Kerlyne Moreau Jean Baptiste in our very first issue. Through the years she has indeed educated herself in the world of fashion and continued to grow her talent by showcasing her works throughout South Florida. We've had the privilege of shooting her latest designs, through the lens of photographer Thomas Bernavil. Her story is surely an interesting one and no matter how much we would love to write it again we would prefer to make this article, a continuation of her beautiful journey. The following is a conversation with Kerlyne about where she plans on taking this talent in the near future.
Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Model: TIMothy richardson, alexandra RAMIREZ Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio
Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Models: SUZETTE JAMES, TIMothy richardson, alexandra RAMIREZ Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio
Confused and so gullible that you wind up trying not to lose both when you know you can only hold on to one. Powerful.imani
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you can only hold on to one. hold on to one. one.
Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Models: alexandra RAMIREZ, TIMothy richardson Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio 40 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
I guess I might need this time to remove not only my heart but my sence of mind because right now I just need some time. On the triangle Called Me Myself and I. -
Powerful.imani
Photographer: THOMAS BERNAVIL Makeup: NYRVA DORELUS Model: SUZETTE JAMEs Clothing: KEL FASHION Location: Madame Delphine's Studio
Creating her own
Style
A MERE REFLECTION OF WHO SHE IS AND FUTURE.
1. Knowing your harsh reality, how have you moved on from being broken to now being triumphant? Its taken time and practice. I've watched movies like the secret and practiced replacing negative energy with positive energy and truly feel it is the secret to a fulfilling life. Its not about how much I have but the value of what I have. The value lies within the true happiness of the heart. I overcame it over and over and proved it to be right over and over. The faster you replace negative with positive the more room you have to fill it with Order. You begin to see things unfold in sometimes the years to come and its like I almost can predict my future as crazy as that sounds. Especially being a visual person. 2.How would you describe your new designs? Just as you asked how I feel to be triumphant now, I created this latest collection with that idea in mind. I wanted to create a look that would conquer, a look that felt royalty and signified strenght. I wanted to be more connected to our African culture. I wanted to be more connected with my ancestors and through meditation feel that the spirits before us helped me to create these designs. I am not a religious person but I am a very spiritual person and I like to follow my heart and energy create my pieces. 3.What process do you undergo when you design? For one, I cannot be in a bad mood at all. Being an artist you have to be completely be in character I like to call it. You have to empty out all thought whether positive or negative and its almost like I create a blank white space in my head. Once that blank page is ready, now come the breathing. Calm breathing and I asked myself in silently: How do you feel the next collection should look? It is at that point colors start to appear, shapes start to form and then an image will appear. Its like I am sketching in my head the whole collection before even touching a pencil and sketchbook. One the first look appears in my head the rest of the pieces start to appear. Once that is done. I begin to sketch some ideas down so I don't forget when the busy life's thoughts fill back into that blank spaces.
WHAT HER PLANS ARE FOR THE MEET KERLYNE M. JEAN BAPTISTE I create my pieces from scratch starting from the sketch, to creating the pattern, to sewing and then adding finishing touches by hand. Its a process that fills me inside with this feeling that no one can take away from you. Its yours, its your process, your creation and your triumph. 4. What are your biggest influences? Who do you look up to as a designer? You know funny that is one of the questions I hate being asked the most and not because no one has ever influenced me but because of the path that I have chosen as a designer. I found myself thinking time after time. The fashion industy is so saturated with designers and some are greater then me at the skills they have. Now, even if I learned all their skills and mastered it. At what point do I become unique, different and original. I grew up following designers like Versace and Chanel and studied the Store of Anna. I always felt for some reason like an imposter replicating designs. So I decided that I would study on my own, learn new ways on my own. Created designs based of trial an error rather then looking up a You tub video. I'll get just the basics and then freestyle it from there. It gives me a sense of ownership.
Kerlyne's final walk at the 2nd Annual CCWC Trunk Show
Her brand , her life, her fabric. KEL FASHION & DESIGN
After an emotional and successful night at the 3rd annual CCWC Trunk Show, Kerlyne poses with the models who represented her brand.
www.creativmag.com | Feb - Mar 2017 | CREATIV | 43
Fashion Photography |
Thomas and Kel
5. We remember that you used to paint on fabric? Do you still do that or have you traded it completely for fashion? I haven't painted on a hat in a couple of years now I've totally engulfed myself with the fashion part of me. However, I would not turn down a request to create a custom piece, and do plan to do more of that work in the future When I have enough time to fit into my schedule. I used to spend over 40 hours on one hat whereas now I can make a dress in 3 hours. I also felt like because not a lot of people were doing it, it was hard to place a price on the pieces that would one be worth the labor and two not break anyone's pocket because I really wanted the exposure more. 6. When are we finally going to see you on a big stage? Perhaps Funkshion Fashion Week? Well hopefully very soon. Right now we are taking a new direction and I am revamping who Kel Inc is and what we do. I have done many shows in the past ranging from FDE, CCWC Trunk SHow, 5Sur5TV, Jazz In The Gardens and yes I've enjoyed the experience and exposure but now I want to create an experience for my audience. I want the music, clothes, models, the walk and the performance to move the audience for days months and years after. 7. Have any celebrities ever worn your art? I've had the mayor of Miami Gardens rock a Kel Inc original hat for one of the Jazz in the Garden Women's Conferences. I've also had Monica Danger, who starred on "For the love of Ray Jay". That was an old show an old reality tv show on VH1. I am hoping one day I can create custom pieces for artists like
Rhianna, which style I absolutely love. 8. Where do you go from there? What is next for Kel Inc.? For Kel Inc. I am truly in this for the love, the passion and the experience, the reaction I get from my clients and how my designs make people feel. I am working on several projects. I have been booked as a stylist more and more lately and I am really enjoying doing that and watching everything come together. I will be partners with Leyoo Lux from Bag Lady Trends for the second Annual Lux Lavish Take Over. Also working with us in this big event will be Personal Assistant Services. I am working with a lot of young women that are serious about business and make this process all the more exciting when you are with like minded people. 9. What words of inspiration do you have for the generation to come? I would say to the Dreamer, keep dreaming and make it a reality. See dreams started as blank spaces that were filled with all the things that make the heart warm inside. You can color your reality and just as you do your dreams. You have to follow your heart in what ever you do in life. That is what connects us to this universe and that connection is what drives us to our true purpose. It is only then that you will stop hitting dead ends, making u-turns or wrong turns. See once you are fulfilling your dreams you are creating that road right in front of you. -KEL.
44 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
Photo credit Kenny Jean Baptiste
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D Fabienne
escadres
FOUNDER OF OLE BIJOUX
The sought after jewelry designer is showing no sign ofslowing down. Her goal is to soar and she is doing just that. Photography by
RICHARD LECOIN
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Photographer/ Richard Lecoin Jewelry /Ole Bijoux Model/ Tamara Ray MUA /Phoedra Boucherau Designer Head wrap/ Adjanie Muller
Special Highlight |
Ole Bijoux
Photographer/ Richard Lecoin Jewelry/ OlĂŠ Bijoux Model/Mallory Graham MUA/ Phoedra Bouchereau Designer/ Adjanie Muller Headwrap/ Ankara Delights.
Ole' Bijoux
Photography/ Richard Lecoin Jewelry/ Ole Bijoux Model/ Clara Philor Makeup/ Phoedra Bouchereau Designer/ Laura Lafrance
"My pieces are bold, fresh, vibrant, funky, colorful, free-spirited, and versatile while embracing every style with an element of surprise"
C
Caribbean people are naturally drawn to art. Surrounded by sea and rich culture, it is inevitable that the mind would search to become a vessel for creativity. The story of Fabienne Descartes is not uncommon, she founded Olé Bijoux out of pure influence. Coming from a family where she constantly
was surrounded by Fashion and art, she developed a love for Do It Yourself crafts and Knick Knacks. From there she birthed Olé Bijoux. She has participated in numerous shows in South Florida, she recently styled the beautiful models who presented at Ankara Fashion Week. She also is a member of RAW Artists Miami, an international organization who puts the emphasis on showcasing artists of all genre. Her jewelry has also dressed some Haitian celebrities who appreciate her exotic style. The following is a conversation with Fabienne to highlight her love for her craft:
Fabienne Descadres Founder of Olé Bijoux
1-How did you go from creating sock puppets and frames to creating jewelry? As a little girl, my Mother was against children relying solely on television as a recreation source. She encouraged us to use our creativity for entertainment, which my brother and I enjoyed. I recall watching my Mom get dressed when we lived in Boston, her effortless elegance, mix of prints, color blocking, and choices of the most uncommon jewelry that would somehow fiercely tie the look together. Fast forward two years later, with a large family full of divas, especially my Godmother, every event became challenging as we tend to gravitate towards similar taste. My solution was to purchase several pieces of jewelry, take them apart and transform into my own. The rest is history…
Not at all, I simply let my soul guide me, and I trust it. However I will say the inspiration is guided by none other than my Mom and late Granny.
2-Your jewelry has a bohemian flair was that intentional? www.creativmag.com | Feb - Mar 2017 | CREATIV | 51
Photographer/ Richard Lecoin Jewelry/ OlĂŠ Bijoux Model/Waseline (Wawa) Guillaume MUA/ Phoedra Bouchereau Designer/ Adjanie Muller
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3-Do any of your jewelry come with a particular meaning? I personally live life freely and in colors, hence my creations. The intentional meaning behind my creations is freedom of expression. What puts a smile on my face is seeing the various ways in which my clients enhance their own style with my creations. I aspire to make everyone feel as bold, and full of life, as they truly are. 4-They say that artists never have one talent what other talent would you say that you have? I believe I’ve had enough training to consider myself as a competitive tennis and ping pong player.
5-Do you plan on designing anything else but jewelry? Absolutely! headdresses to start, and for the rest, I’ll surprise you.
Olé Bijoux is the essence of my heritage and culture
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Photographer/ Richard Lecoin Jewelry/ OlĂŠ Bijoux Model/ Ana Thomas MUA/ Phoedra Bouchereau Designer/ Laura Lafrance
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Photographer/ Richard Lecoin Jewelry/ OlĂŠ Bijoux Model/ Kaylee Rodriguez Makeup/ Nadine Saint-Louis Styling/ Adjanie Muller
Photographer/ Richard Lecoin Jewelry/ OlĂŠ Bijoux Model/ Melonie Jasmine Merise Makeup/ Phoedra Bouchereau Designer/ Laura Lafrance
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6-Has anyone famous ever wore your craft? I’ve had the pleasure of styling some very talented people such as singers Emeline Michel, Adaa, Flav, Princess Eud, Ruthshelle Guillaume, Jim Rama, Ali Angel, Sanders (Harmonik), James Cardozo (T-Vice). Supermodels Tico Armand and Zashia Santiago. 7-Have you ever showcased them, if so where? “Defilé” music video (Adaa), “Djanie) music video (Emeline Michel), various fashion shows including Raw Artists and Ankara Miami. My most consistent is my secret pop up shop called “Fashion Talk”.
8-What final words would you have for an aspiring artist? First of all, go for it, whatever your idea may be, know that it is worth it. Gather the right team, with the same energy. Believe in your craft, keep a positive attitude, remain humble, do it with passion and watch the universe work in your favor. We love supporting women in the arts doing marvelous things. We can only wish Fabienne success in her endeavors and may she reach places beyond her imagination. To know more about Fabienne and Olé Bijoux please visit www. olebijoux.com
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SOMETHING COMING TO CREATIVMAG
BIG
IS
Ironman
Cover Story |
THE
Abstract Artist Albrecht Behmel
IMAGINATIVE MINDof
GETTING TO KNOW THE ARTIST, AN EXPOSITION OF HIS WORK, AND WHERE HE CAN BE SEEN.
Albrecht Behmel
A
Albrecht came to us as humble as they come. We can certainly say that he is passionate about his art and certainly deserves to be on our cover. Albrecht is a German artist dubbed to be a Novelist, Historian, Best-selling non-fiction author, Essayist, Screenwriter and award-winning Playwright. It certainly is a privilege and an honor to have an artist of such caliber gracing our pages. Albrecht took a leap of faith, quit his job and became a full-time artist. His first bold move was to send one of his paintings to Guy Kawasaki, a well renown Silicon Valley venture capitalist, and from there he went on to sell one of his masterpieces for 50,000 Euros (that’s 54,313.50 in US currency!). We feel so privileged to be able to bring you an amazing conversation with Albrecht and hope you enjoy his art as much as we did. The feeling we get in observing Albrecht's art is mind boggling ...literally! His paintings give you the feeling that every color, every line and every shape are intertwined with each other, totally TWISTED. However abstract cannot be defined by the artist but instead of us telling you why not enjoy the interesting conversation with Albrecht. www.creativmag.com | Feb - Mar 2017 | CREATIV | 63
He's gonna get you
Grimms Märchen
64 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
Spiderman
Venus Do you remember what your very first painting was? If so what's the story behind it?
I talk to everybody, not about my work. I answer all their questions of course, but mainly I ask them questions myself.
Of course I do! I also remember my first car, the first kiss, my first guitar and my first broken leg. My first “real” painting (because I hope we are not counting the rubbish one creates as a kid) was in the 90’s in Berlin. It was wild there in the 90’s! (It got me my second broken leg).
You know, there is this joke about this artist, a total egomaniac who talks about nothing but himself all the time until he remembers what his wife told him. She said, please, let other people talk about themselves, too. They need this. So during an art show, after a monologue of 20 minutes when he goes on and on about himself, this artist remembers what his wife told him and turns to his audience and says, “But enough about me! Let’s also talk about you, guys: how do you like my art?”
This was a series called “the deadly sins” and I came up with a lot more than just seven. Google them and you will see that no doubt, they needed an update. These paintings are 11x 19 inches and don’t show the deed itself, only the expression on the face of a person committing the sin. Like a selfie. I sold the entire collection to a friend and I was hooked. I said to myself, wow, wait! If I can sell this stuff, I am on to something because I always loved painting and drawing but I never created a series or a real painting. And I never got paid for anything I made before. Break a leg, right? You have had countless exhibitions. How does it feel every time you put your work out there? I have to say, I love it! I LOVE IT! Because I like to be involved in the whole process, packing, shipping, handling as long as I have great help. You can’t succeed by yourself. So we usually turn this into a kind of a party, we make photos and have fun. I know a lot of artists who are not comfortable in front of a crowd, who are shy. I am shy in a way, too. But I love people more. So I am fine. When I have a show,
What emotions do you expect spectators to experience by viewing your work? Any emotion will do. In fact, this is a very deep question. I believe that art is not an object or something you can see or buy or rent. Art is when something happens in your mind. When layers of meaning appear after you see or hear something. Art in the widest sense. This is a philosophical question. On a practical level, I hope that my art inspires people to talk - not necessarily about my art but anything that comes to their mind. Ideally, my work should make people want to talk to one another and share their insights and ideas. This happens a lot, and generally it has nothing to do with what the paintings are about. And that’s excellent. Art connects minds in unusual and unexpected ways. But here is what I love when it happens: When someone looks at one of my works and and they start listening to their minds as their minds begin to make sense of it all. Most of the time it has nothing to do with what I was thinking. Isn’t that great?
Art is when something happens in your mind. When layers of meaning appear after you see or hear something.
Can you explain what goes through your mind as you paint or would you say you've created a cookie cutter pattern for your art? There are routines, certainly. Everything you do over and over again will lend itself to routine, like the way you handle the brushes, the canvas and all the gear one needs. So, yes, patterns exist, very much as a dancer will do certain moves. I paint slowly. I move slowly, I rarely drip paint on the floor. These are patterns. But not on the level of creation and meaning, at least I like to think so; I hope. For me, painting is a rational act, I put color on the canvas following an "algorithm in my head", and I suppose I could be replaced by a robot at some point. Like
Mondrian. So I ask myself, what is the logical consequence for this choice of color right here or this line there? And then there is the visceral level, the pure joy of putting paint on canvas. For me, this is the real fun, in a very Bob Ross kinda way. I love him! The Joy of Painting. How true and how brilliant this title is. I also like to listen to audiobooks when I paint, so that goes on in my mind as well. This way I educate myself about the subject I am painting. I listened to Harry Potter, when I painted the family photos of Hogwarts, I listened to the Original Star Wars Radio Show (check it out, it is great) when I created the Far Far Away series and so on.
Adam
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You've started as a novelist and a screen writer, what made you shift into becoming an artistic painter? Well, I am still a writer and a novelist. This year I am going to publish two books and I am working on an art-themed children’s book. I also have been a visual artist for a long time. So this goes hand in hand. I like stories and expanding worlds. If a great story captures my imagination I turn it into a painting or a series of paintings. Sometimes I turn it into another story or novel. For me. It is basically the same thing. I love concentration and focus. When I work I am immersed 100%. I also like long distance driving. It is a very similar state of mind. It comes down to this. As an artist or writer you can see the future in a way. You anticipate a certain scene and then you create it. Future foreseen! Future created. Easy! The same on canvas, you envision a certain scene and then you paint it. Painting however gives me more freedom. As a writer I need to hear a lot of other people, editors, publisher, agents, etc. As a painter, I am free. Which one of your pieces do you like the most and why? I usually like the last one best because I am still focused on it. However, if I were to pick one and only one, that would be a tiny postcard-sized design I created for my wife Afraa. It is called “connected hearts” and it shows some silhouettes of hearts that overlap, big and small, and it symbolises a family. Afraa reprints them and sends them to our friends and collectors all over the world, Wall Street, Silicon Valley, City of London, Paris, Heidelberg... One of these hearts is also the logo of our foundation. So, even though I usually create huge canvasses, the tiniest piece is somehow my favorite. Funny, right?
Seems like that you've toured quite a few places around the world exhibiting your work, where haven't you gone yet that you would like to go and why? Oh, yes! The world is huge and amazing and I still feel I haven’t seen anything yet. So, for example I would love to go to Budapest and do something there. They have wonderful mineral baths there, and I am a spa person, so that is a match. I am very much looking forward to my first shows in Shanghai and Singapore later this year. This is exciting because I have so many friends there and yet I never visited. What would you say to the young generation that would like to follow into your footsteps? I would tell them to get the hell out of my footsteps. Make your own footsteps, people. This is what I actually tell my students by the way. I am talking to high school kids and college students and I tell them: Get out and be someone not someone else. Why would you follow my footsteps? They meander all over the place. They are stupid. Even I would not retake them. Take a short cut and get to where your role models went in half their time or less. This will make you great, or at least interesting. Tell us one fun fact about you that you would like your fans to know. There is a “fun” fact about me in the literal sense: I laugh in my sleep. Afraa, my wife, tells me that, too, poor Afraa. I don’t do this dark lord kind of laughter or like a mad scientist, no! genuine happy laughter, giggling. This happens all the time, because I dream comedy. I got a stand up brain, it tells me jokes. This is really true and it upsets me. I get so much humour in my dreams, outright jokes, punchlines and all, that I sometimes can’t remember the good ones next morning. This upsets me and then I am mad at me when I wake up.
SUPPORT THE ARTS
ALBRECHT BEHmel
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For so long, women's golf clothes have been a feminized version of what's available for men; and not a reflection of what is in fashion. So we've created a line that performs both on the green as well as in the club. We like to refer to it as Country Club Chic. At Meg Campbell Golf we see no reason to sacrifice style for performance. Which is why all of our garments are made with wicking enhanced fabric. Let our clothes keep you cool and dry while you play and keep you looking sophisticated and stylish for whatever your plans are for any given day.
Sometimes the universe speaks to you, and sometimes it yells. When Meghan Campbell was in college, she was assigned golf wear for her portfolio development class. She was disappointed as she had envisioned artful couture gracing the pages of her portfolio, ready to be shown to potential employers upon graduation. Golf wasn't on her radar! But then she started to think out of the box. What if golf clothes for women was more then pared down men's clothes? What if they were beautiful and the kind of clothes women could easily wear off the course as well? Clothes women would want to wear to their country clubs; on the course or at lunch or brunch; or to work, or even to run errands. What emerged was a sophisticated golf wear line that she was proud to show to her professor, who wasn't quite sure she understood it for golf but she loved it for its look anyway. Meghan got an A! After college Meghan headed to NYC; no job but 2 close friends and a tiny apartment were waiting! She knew she wanted her own line one day, but she also knew she needed to learn the business of fashion. It took a few weeks but she finally got work doing freelance. She started in production, which wasn't her dream. But it taught her how to get actual products made, and made well. She learned fit and quality and how to source from around the world. She was then offered a job full time. Her boss told her she'd never make it in design. That she should give up that dream as she wouldn't like it anyway. That she should take the job she was being offered and be grateful. But she politely declined their offer and started looking for her next job. And then the universe called out again and she landed her first real design job, as an assistant, designing non other then golf clothes for IZOD.
Photography by Jose Pagan and Brady Pappas
Fashion Presentation |
Meghan Campbell
Photographer/ Jose Pagan HMUA/ Sinnamon Lugo Kat's Castings Management (KCmgmt) Model/ Jolaina Peltier www.creativmag.com | Feb - Mar 2017 | CREATIV | 73
The idea was to produce a capsule line that was country club chic. Meghan Campbell, Fashion Designer There she learned what was needed to make great clothes for golfers. The technical fabrics that wicked moisture to keep the body dry; or protection that could be added to protect the body from UV rays. She also learned the sort of clothes expected on the course; dress codes and all that. From there Meghan's career within the fashion industry advanced into higher design positions with different companies. And she kept finding herself working on golf clothes for different labels. At this point the universe was hoarse from the constant yelling! And then her father, an avid golfer, mentioned how every time he was in a pro shop he heard a woman complain about the clothes. That they weren't stylish enough or didn't fit quite right. And finally Meghan stopped playing hard to get and answered the universe's call. And so Meg Campbell Golf was born! The idea was to produce a capsule line that was country club chic. A line that you can mix and 74 | CREATIV | Feb - Mar 2017 | www.creativmag.com
match and make dozens of outfits from with a few key pieces. Yes play golf in it, or even tennis (don't worry, we won't tell) and then go have lunch or brunch. Our clothes are playful and stylish with a preppy and sophisticated look while still being technically advanced with fabric that keeps you cool and dry. We hope you love playing and living in Meg Campbell Golf as much as we do. And Meghan is looking forward to seeing what the universe has planned next.
The Story on the Logo The Meg Campbell Golf logo is a nod to our heritage. The idea for the logo came as Meghan was doing an ancestral search on a branch of her family tree. The shield takes elements from the background of the Scottish family crest of the Campbell's. After sketching (and doodling) some different looks, and idea was born . If you look closely you'll see that the gold stitching lines are actually golf clubs; they are in fact a golf club making a full swing. And that's the story on the logo.
Photographer/ Brady Pappas HMUA/ Sinnamon Lugo Kat's Castings Management (KCmgmt) Model/ Jolaina Peltier
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Artistic Events |
Jazz In The Gardens Music Fest
Four time Grammy Award winner Esperanza Spalding
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If you are looking for an annual event where the biggest stars in the Entertainment Industry are reunited to give you the best Jazz and Hip Hop concert you've ever attended, look no further than Jazz In The Gardens hosted in the city of Miami Gardens in Florida. This year was no different, with headliners such as LL Cool J, The Roots, Andra Day and Jill Scott, it was an event not to miss. We were fortunately there to capture the awesome moments that would make you regret
Marion Medows and FloRida being interviewed at JITG Singer and songwriter ChantĂŠ Moore
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Singer Betty Wright
This year’s Jazz in the Gardens, was definitely special, 90s babies relived all the oldies of LL Cool J, and women were serenated to the beautiful songs of Common. However the most important moment of the night was recognizing the Trayvon Martin Foundation through Sybrina Fulton, the mother of Trayvon Martin, who came up on stage and was embraced and well received by the crowd. This is definitely an incredible moment as it marks an important moment in history where Trayvon Martin, son of Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin from Miami Gardens, Florida, who, at 17 years old, was fatally shot by George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch volunteer, in Sanford, Florida. “The Trayvon Martin Foundation is a social justice organization committed to ending senseless gun violence, strengthening families through holistic support, S.T. E.A.M. education for women and minorities and mentoring. Our strategy is to move from intervention to reform. Positively changing the lives of youth and their families through strategic programming and perpetual services is at the core of our existence.” trayvonmartinfoundation.org Headliners such as Four time Grammy Award winner Esperanza Spalding, GRAMMY® Award nod for “Best R&B Album and Threetime Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Jill Scott, graced the stage with their best performances yet. There is no Jazz without these wonderful women. Their voices enchant and their music always carry a message of empowerment and hope. It didn’t stop there, adding Robin Thicke to the mix made
it even that much more enjoyable. Despite knowing what he just went through, regarding divorcing his wife and trying to keep face after a nasty custody battle for his son Julian, that night was just about the music. Talent never fails and people go through hardships all the time, however we commend him for putting all of that aside and delivering such an amazing performance.
Best Show Ever! Some fun moments definitely made it through, one in particular when Common decided to bring a young lady on stage a kiss her on the lips….let me repeat .. kissed…her…on…the…lips! you don’t’ believe me well we have proof LOL! See it on the next page. Other celebrities were spotted as well such as America’s Next Top Model Season one winner Eva Marcille, who is now creating an empire for herself as an actress, TV host and fashion model, and a business owner. It’s never satisfying to people dubbing a show “ Best Show Ever!”. One must always strive to surpass its previous successes. With this said we hope to see an even bigger show delivered next year by the organizers of JITG and guarantee that we will be there to capture all the excitement.
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HIGHLIGHTS From the Show
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1-ANTM winner and entrepreneur Eva Marcille 2 - Questlove band member of the Roots 3 - Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Jr., better known by his stage name Common, rapper, actor, film producer and poet 4- Common serenading a fan 5- GRAMMY Award nominee for “Best R&B Performance" Andra Day 6- GRAMMY Award winner Robin Thicke 7- LL Cool J and Fat Joe exchanging a greeting 8- Recording Artists Morris Day
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The TRAVEL BAN and You On January 27, 2017, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 13769. In summary, the order was designed to stop the entry of citizens from seven countries (Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) from entry into the United States for 90 days. In addition, the admission of refugees to the U.S. was stopped for four months, and a there was a change to the process for renewing visas to the U.S. Within 24 hours of the order being signed, world-wide confusion ensued causing misinformation to proliferate social media, and creating some of the worst travel horror stories anyone has experienced or heard to date. Ultimately, while current iterations of this order will not impact most U.S. citizens and green card holders, there is still a need to be alert to these types of Executive Orders and how they could potentially impact you in the future.
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Keeping Up with the Orders At the writing of this article, the current Executive Order has been placed on hold and the Administration is creating a new order that would be slightly more lenient to certain citizens and residents of the U.S., while still providing for certain restrictions to remain in place. The ongoing changes can be confusing. Therefore, one of the best things you can do for yourself, before planning or leaving the country for a trip, is to check with the United States Department of State (https://www.state.gov/) regarding any travel advisories and requirements. This will include passport requirements, visa requirements, and any travel advisories for your planned destinations.
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Register Your Trip Did you know that you can register any of your international travel plans with the U.S. Department of State? It’s a simple process that informs the department of where you will be traveling to in case of an emergency,
such as natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Many may think that this is Big Brother interfering where it shouldn’t. However, it’s a protection for you. When traveling abroad, numerous situations can happen from medical emergencies to natural disasters to increased threats against the citizens of certain countries. Having your travel plans registered with the State Department allows them to work on your behalf, if needed. Has your passport been lost or stolen? The U.S. State Department can work with the local embassy or consulate to help you get your documents replaced quickly. Have a medical emergency? The State Department can help you in securing what’s needed for treatment. Should there be a natural disaster or a terrorist attack, then the State Department can easily locate you and assist with getting you evacuated from the area. Although the State Department can review flight manifests and passport records for any citizen, knowing exactly where you are, and when, helps make their job of locating and getting to you easier.
Travel Agents work hard to stay abreast of travel requirements working directly with their suppliers and government entities to better understand what is required for travel. Since Travel Agents are often emailed travel advisories before they’re made known to the public, they can better guide and direct you on what to do should your vacation be impacted by these advisories. They can provide you more cost-effective solutions if you need to change your itinerary, and they can guide on how to get the most out of your vacation dollars. Your Travel Agent is your consultant, advisor, and guru for all things travel. While Executive Orders focused on travel may impact some citizens of the United States, there’s always a possibility that other countries will exercise their rights to impact the ability of U.S. citizens to travel to theirs. Reviewing the State Department’s website, staying abreast of travel advisories, and working with a reputable Travel Agent will enable you to plan your vacation with confidence.
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Use a Reputable Travel Agent Travel Agents often have the value of their services called into question, until there’s a situation that directly impacts a consumer’s travel. When that happens, most consumers find that they cannot make changes to their reservation or avoid fees. In fact, most find that their entire vacation is ruined and they suffer financial losses. A certified and accredited Travel Agent can help you through every harrowing situation and lessen the amount of financial loss.
Writer's Corner |
...other countries will exercise their rights to impact the ability of U.S. citizens to travel to theirs.
written by Showeshi Boston
Traveling in Style
Eagles WHEN FLY
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.
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Writer's Corner |
W
hen I left my old job as an engineer, I did so with the understanding that business ownership was to become my new way of life. Having worked diligently and consistently for 16 years to help others live out their dreams, I was ready to pursue my own. The transition was a ridiculously smooth one. I knew I had the blessing and favor of Father on my side. A month before I was slated to leave my engineering position, I had already secured a position in my new field of interest; Marriage and Family Therapy. Being issued a God-breathed memo is no joke, especially when you’re no longer a new kid on the block. I’ve had enough experience to recognize when an era is ending and the demand for a shift into a new season increases. Have you ever attempted to make what was meant to be a “pit stop” a permanent home? Well let me give you some insight into that. Don’t!! It wasn’t that I had intended on setting up shop at this particular pit stop; I know the vision the Master Designer has for my life and the trajectory He has already crafted. I believe it was simply a tad bit easy to get comfortable in a place where I was guaranteed to have some financial needs met, albeit with an organizational structure that had a leadership and teambuilding dynamic that ran completely counter-cultural to mine. And therein was my dilemma. I had, in essence, begun to compromise my own value system and personal convictions because somewhere along the line, I had gotten comfortable, again.
True to form, the Master Designer has a knack for getting you to re-calibrate and get back on course when your default mode threatens to take over. This brings to mind a story I once heard about eagles and their offsprings. It is said that when the adult eagles are preparing their nest for the birth of the baby eagles, it is done so with great precision. The nest, which may be located as high as 125 feet, is constructed of interwoven sticks and the interior is lined with grass, corn stalks, and other material. The bowl in which the birds will rest is filled with soft materials, including moss and the downy feathers from adults. By 6 weeks of age, baby eagles are just about the same size as their parents. Between 10 to 12 weeks, the young eagles are naturally expected to fledge, i.e. fly from the nest. As with any young adult population, there is always a few who would rather remain in the safe and familiar surroundings of home. How do papa and momma eagles remedy this situation? They begin to systematically remove the soft comfy interior of the nest to expose the large twigs and sticks base. As you can imagine, the degree of discomfort that ensues forces the young eagles to quickly reconsider adjusting their departure time. Fact or fiction, I am not about to debate, but the story sounds quite plausible and makes perfect sense. There are times I have been successful at quickly recognizing when a season is ending and I manage to respond immediately to making the necessary adjustments. At other times I have not been as fortunate and in those moments, my dullness of sight or hearing and failure to
Empowerment
respond to the indicators, have led to unnecessary delays and immeasurable pain; including the loss or erosion of relationships. Elijah the prophet had had no doubt that the Master Designer had given him specific instructions. “Get thee hence and turn thee eastward and hide thyself by the brook Cherith that is before Jordan. And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there” (The Human’s Manual For Living – 1 Kings 17:3-4). It was during the time of one of the most horrendous droughts to ever hit the country of Israel. Elijah was to be provided for and sustained in this place. It wasn’t long after, however, that this same brook dried up. The season had ended. What was Elijah to do? Stay there because he had “gotten a word from the Lord”, or because he was being supplied with whatever he needed in this place? The signs were there and not only that, the Master Designer gave him a NEW set of instructions. Is your brook beginning to dry up or has it dried up? Is there abundance in the place where you are being sustained (spiritually, emotionally, socially, or financially) but it has become a threat to your purpose, to your value system and to the vision the Master Designer has given you concerning your life? Is the place that was meant to be a “pit stop” now becoming your permanent place of residence? Be careful! When it’s time to fly like the eagles, do just that. Fly.
Dry Those Eyes!
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hoever said crying is a great way to release your emotions, wasn't lying. Crying is something a lot of us automatically do when we want to express how we feel about something. It shows that we’re passionate and probably have great concern for the thing we’re crying about. According to biochemist William H. Frey II, PhD. we feel better after crying because it removes chemicals that build up during stress. So, there it is. Crying is in fact a wonderful way to let all of those emotional critters out of their nest! But what about the other type of crying? The crying that some of us do in the relationships we have with our partners. The crying that makes our partner cringe sometimes because they just can’t stand hearing it. That ugly cry. The cry that even you hate doing, but you just can’t help it. That kind of crying is emotional crying. Emotional crying helps release bottled feelings we have or helps us free ourselves from the stressors that consume us. Emotional crying is a sure sign that you know how to be empathetic and tap into that place that allows you to share your sentiments. However,
How Holding Back Soppy Tears Can Save Your Relationship
this same kind of crying becomes a concern when you are doing it more than you (or your partner) would like. By "emotional crying”, I am referring to crying that stems from feelings associated with common problems like infidelity, insecurities, backand-forth bickering, financial woes, sex-related concerns, etc. It’s the crying that you do when things go south on any given Tuesday. It’s the tearshedding you do when you feel betrayed or neglected on an issue…that crying! So now you must be thinking, Am I not supposed to cry if he/she hurts me? And the answer to that one is, yes. You certainly can cry if your partner does something that upsets you or bothers you. However, if you’re constantly crying over the same things, and your tears stream faster than your water faucet, you might want to consider whether you’re in a healthy relationship or if you need help controlling your emotions so you don’t have a partner regarding your tears as powerlessness. Emotional crying in excess reveals something to your partner. It shows your partner that there are some weaknesses you possess that aren’t exactly contained. If you find that you’re the only one crying most of the time during
arguments or disagreements, it’s time for you to STOP. When emotional crying is at the forefront of every disagreement with your partner, then it becomes a battle between Your Partner vs. Your Tears. Crying every time you’re frustrated not only takes a toll on you, but your partner may begin taking advantage of the fact that they can push your button in order to make your eyes drain. Think about it: When we argue, our goal is to win, (so-to-speak), and be right in our argument; otherwise we wouldn’t argue. If your partner finds that they’re not winning because they don’t have enough facts or can’t verbalize how they feel in a way you understand, they’ll turn to what works-- you guessed it, making you cry. When we cry, it’s only natural that we let our guards down and become extremely vulnerable. That said, constantly crying to get your point across may lead to your partner not taking you seriously and may even lead to you saying irrational things to your partner that make you sound, well…crazy. The best alternative to emotional crying in your relationship, is to respectfully walk away or politely dismiss yourself until you can get your feelings and thoughts in order. Habitually crying wears you and your
partner down. It’s one of the fastest ways to break-up a relationship that has the potential to be salvaged. Emotional crying on your end can literally make your partner feel like they don’t have an extra backbone in you when they need to be held up. So here’s the deal. I believe two rational adults in a relationship can work on being great communicators with each other if they think their words through, iron-out their individual quirks and operate in a way that doesn’t involve unnecessary tears. Besides, your tears should be left for affairs of great concern. Not minor issues that can be handled in a few hours and won’t even matter the next day. Again, if you’re involved with someone who always makes you cry and gets you upset, reevaluate why you’re there and if staying with that person is your best option. On the opposite end of things, if you’re with a person who isn’t taking advantage of you emotionally or mentally, then get yourself together, stop all that crying, and work hard on being a clear communicator so your tears aren’t always fighting your battles. (Here’s a tissue…on me.)
Writer's Corner |
Love and Relationships
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."
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SETTING THAT LEGACY EXAMPLE written by
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Emonde Prosper The day before I wrote this I attended the funeral of a 5 year old little princess, named Kasie Baldwin, who passed away from brain cancer. Hired as her personal assistant during her remission at an elementary school, I worked with Kasie very closely. She wasn’t like any other child. She was
special. Within five minutes of meeting her I knew there was a depth to her spirit that was incredible. As a matter of fact, I know most people think poorly of a person losing their battle with cancer, but not Kasie Baldwin. Kasie crossed over as a winner with the many lives she touched. She did her job of uplifting, celebrating, dancing and leaving a legacy for herself quite nicely. Now here is the million dollar question: "Are you setting a worthy example?" Kasie was five years young. The life span of most businesses sadly are the same or less. How are you using your short window of time? These are the attributes that described Kasie unanimously from others: Inspirational, larger than life, courteous, a people-person, smart as a "whip", fun, go-getter, power house, independent, strong, fiery, wise beyond her years, and we can go on and on. She had a WOW factor about her that was immeasurable. What are yours? We all have it. Make sure yours are in place to show it off. Start with your specialty. Your niche defines your passion and what you want to give to the world. Then share that A LOT both for free and for sale. Kasie's specialty was love. She needed no money to spread it. She had a team behind her to achieve the other things out of her control, including money. With that knowledge, everywhere she went she spread her specialty to everyone in close proximity. Mine is writing and speaking. I cannot have one without the other. I share it in innovative ways because I get bored, but my core is always writing and speaking. There is such a freedom in that and to quote my friend and colleague, Shanett Dean: "Freedom is priceless!" My challenge to you is to test your specialty. Is it clear? If there is any doubt, take some time to spell it out. Rhyming is to writing. ;) I had the responsibility of writing the poem about Kasie to be presented at her funeral. Here it is. Enjoy!
Writer's Corner | Within the cocoon of the very place She emerged from, God opened His heart and called Kasie back home We are told our exact dates On this green Earth Are not guaranteed Only that there will be moments Between your First breath and Your last Watching Kasie Just 5 years old Was like watching a miracle in motion A Performance of art The paintbrush? Was the actual wisdom she spread Like an old soul. Miss Baldwin You did such precious work on the outside To so many on the inside Even to those watching from the sidelines All of it done with a bright s.m.i.l.e A smile Special Magic In Living Everyday Wow...My mind's filled with... Those days With you Dancing in praise With you Being in awe of you The English language Could call you Amazing Call you Inspirational But what did the spirit say At heaven's gate Welcoming back home a spirit like you Bet it is something perfect! They must have exclaimed with excitement But I am not prepared with the words That can capture a butterfly Who laid its gentle footprints upon our hearts as you did A woman holding wisdom so long Possibly of a woman 100 years strong Inside a vessel so young and so small Her spirit was on fire No one could do nothing but melt When she touched you with her flame She was absolutely
Artistic Entrepreneuship
A direct message that God's work must truly be our own And a world filled with Kasies Would be the same as stepping closer to God's dream To see what He sees A Dream like you Wild and free A dream like you Filled with faithful Warriors Marching boldly Living purposefully Kasie joyfully turned bitterness into gold Her smile The only thing that could keep up with that attitude Encompassed all of the things that built up us all Just a itty bitty queen, 3 foot 3 No one has the right to say what is ok from God He is the great I am of us all But if you could think briefly To the moment before a Kasie Did you have any clue You would have been face to face with a real-life super hero? That is the legacy Kasie left in her place Needing only a moment in time An extraordinary example For today and tomorrow To impress upon you Until you are 2 or 92 To love today As that is how you will be remembered forever To never judge a book by its size Never underestimate the prize You harbor inside Never stop dancing your dance of victory Never stop singing your chant of freedom Never be told when you are to stop winning Never stop smiling with appreciation And never dismiss the people you meet As just ordinary people As it just may be an angel you met As we did knowing our guardian angel Her name is... Kasie Baldwin
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