October/November Issue of FunktheFormula Magazine

ARTS. CULTURE..... AND THEN SOME.

COSPLAY FOR A CURE + SMTH + BEAUTY AND THE BEACH OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013

MAGAZINE

www.BiggCaZ.com

ARTIST: Otto Schade, “Desparated”

Street Art Save My Life Facebook.com/streetartsavemylife

WHAT THE FUNK’S INSIDE 5..................THE RUNDOWN 6..................EDITOR’S NOTE 13.................PHOTO SPREAD: BEAUTY AND THE BEACH 27................PRAMS IN THE HALL 35................COSPLAY FOR A CURE 37................DAVENCE’S COSPLAY ZONE: THE BOOBIE CELEBRATION! 47................THE SMTH PROJECT 53................WATCH OUT NOW

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E EDITOR-IN-CHIEF C.E. LAWTON CONTENT EDITOR GENESE NICOLE CREATIVE DIRECTORS C.E. LAWTON & GENESE NICOLE COPY EDITOR C.E. LAWTON CONTRIBUTORS NAESHA MCDOWELL, CATHERINE HENRY, ISIAH GRADY, ZEBULON CRAWFORD, KATHERINE SILVERIO, DENISE OSORIO, ALIYA DOLL, ASATOU SOHNA, NATALIA ORTIZ MEDAGLIA, MARIEME DIOP, NATALIA SERRANO, DAVENCE YOUNG, TSHENELLE BETHEL, JORDANNE BROWN, TREANNNA NEUFVILLE, DANA MILLER ADVERTISING info@funktheformulamag.com FUNKTHEFORMULAMAG.COM It’s the commentary of your life ... but better.

Art. Culture. And Then some.

FOLLOW FUNKTHEFORMULA FACEBOOK.COM/FUNKTHEFORMULA TWITTER: @FUNKTHEFORMULA YOUTUBE.COM/FUNKTHEFORMULA INSTAGRAM: @FUNKTHEFORMULAMAG

COVER: Designer & Guest Model, Natalia Serrano, posing in Zebulon Crawford Designs LEFT: Model: Natalia S. Designer: Henrioci Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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EDITOR’S NOTE Let there be Funk!

It’s been a long, hard road. And there’s still much more mountain to climb. But in any event, times like this are, as cliche as it may seem, what dreams are made of...

FunktheFormula was spawned from the heart with a goal in mind of not only providing inspiration to a sense of indivduality/self expression, but bring forth concepts, cultures and imagery not regularly explored in general media, especially magazines. But with that, FTF is much more than a magazine. It is in fact a movement, a growing movement.

What started from merely t-shirts made in an effort to put forth designs with fresh thinking, customizable visuals and an overall idea of being an individual amidst the “individuals,” has now become a growing media platform for the up and comer and the forward thinker/reactor.

FunktheFormula as a brand celebrates those daring enough to, as our good friend, TastyKeish puts it, join the Dead Day-Job Army and follow that feeling the’ve had in their guts, in their souls telling them to go left when everyone around them of general thinking assured them safety in going right.

Anyone who knows me really or has ever had an in depth conversation with me regarding the world of art knows that I’ve always been a firm believer that EVERYTHING is art ... There is an artistic nature in all of us as humans that was predetermined from our own conception. Our creation itself is a work of art, whether or not one chooses to acknowledge it. What is art but creation, at the bare bones of it? It’s not just, say, an expression of being it is a coming to Be, and conceptualizing what is to Be. Whether we create a thought or create a new world, there is an artistic hand to it all. Our genetic makeup, the blueprint to our homes, streets, cities ... Creation. And the beauty in it all is that it’s not always the same. It’s said in art that nothing or no idea is completely original. At the same time no two ideas, concepts, etc. are completely exact, either.

There’s always a little something there. And those differences are what make us all who we are as individuals. Somewhere along the lines in our growth, however, that wavelength of thought is diluted ... That’s that point where we are conditioned to think that having certain things like the quintessential “good job” and satisfying a particular form of academia will set you for life; it will get you the big house, the car (maybe 2), the wife and 2.5 children ... And life will be good. And it can be. But not necessarily for everyone. Especially those that follow this train of thought but could never fully shake that feeling in the back of their brain, maybe even pushed down to the back of their neck, that they want to create ... They want to play the piano, they want to dance, sing, write, build, design, etc. but become too fearful that not following the status quo will leave them high and dry in the land of financial stability. But then that thought makes it’s way towards the front of the 6

brain again after realizing that the dream isn’t always what it seems when it isn’t necessarily yours. And the older you get, the farther away from what you naturally gravitated towards as a child, the things you enjoyed doing doing most that satisfied a certain peace of mind and pleasure and level of happiness that the average 9 to 5 gig could not satsfy, is now barely a memory; OR you become too fearful at a certain age that it can no longer be executed. You’re too old to do it, your time has past and you’re too late. To that i bluntly say...

FUCK THAT. Let death be the only thing stopping you from pursuing what is already engrained in your heart and soul. It’s not always easy ... It definitely is not. Let me say that with FunktheFormula being a perfect testiment. The blessing lies in FunktheFormula’s conception in an age where information is finally realized as FREE and accessible without being forced to do homework you really don’t want to do. The real homework to persuing your heart’s desire, career wise, is more of a adventurous journey than a chore. And the greatest learning experience of life that you just can’t get anywhere else.

But what is in you, is there ... Always has been. It’s up to you whether or not it withers and dies. ‘What happens to a dream deferred?’

With all this said, we come down to this issue, marking a year of FunktheFormula living and breathing as a publication. We’ve gone through a few issues (in all respects of the word) that have explored realms of art and design, music, fashion, even political and social standpoints, and there’s so much more to explore. This year has been a learning experience for all of us at FTF and hopefully for our readers, and we want to continue to build that experience to heights unthinkable not only for the next year, but many years to come. We sincerely and truly thank everyone that has been supporting and really rocking with us for not only as long as FunktheFormula the publication has been alive, but FunktheFormula the brand, period. Let’s keep rockin’ on. Funk Yeah.

-C.E. Have questions, suggestions, comments? Feel free to contact us: info@funktheformulamag.com

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ARTIST: Pobel, “Nice Surprise”

Street Art Save My Life Facebook.com/streetartsavemylife

ARTIST: DAN23, “4 Hands”

Street Art Save My Life Facebook.com/streetartsavemylife

Beauty

And The

Beach 3 of our favorite designers Ca therine Henry of Henrioci, Zebulon Crawford and Isiah Grady of GITO, are back again a year later, and we decided to take fashion at the beach to a different level.

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Model: Aliya Designer: Henrioci Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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Model: Natalia M. Designer: GITO Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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Model: Marieme Designer: Zebulon Crawford Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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Model: Asatou Designer: GITO Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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Model: Natalia S. Designer: Henrioci Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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Model: Aliya Designer: Henrioci Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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Model: Natalia S. Designer: Zebulon Crawford Hair: Denise Osoria Makeup: Katherine Silverio Stylist: Naesha McDowell Director: Genese Nicole

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Kamran Assadi had the chance to sit down for an insightful interview with the dynamic creative co-founders (Anna Ehnold-Danailov, Sarah Hunt, Roisin Rae and Ain Rashida Sykes) of a collective of theatre professionals with children named Prams In The Hall. Prams In The Hall set out to dispel the fears and relish the challenges of making theatre once you become a parent. This objective is allowing them to experiment with new ways of working that include artists and audiences who are also parents.

How did Prams In The Hall start?

When Anna Ehnold-Danailov was invited to direct ‘Medea Pastiche’ as part of ‘Palimpsest One’ at the Upstairs at the Gatehouse London in 2012, she decided to try an experiment: In an attempt to get around the restrictions motherhood can bring to the creative process, Anna invited actor-parents to bring their offspring with them, not only to the casting but to every rehearsal.

This is how Ain, Anna, Roisin, Sarah and their children met and started working together, trying out rehearsing a serious adult play whilst their young children were present; in brief: being an actor/director and a mother at the same time. This resulted in a wild adventure, a creative chaos. Amongst mountains of toys, packets of biscuits and bits of Play-Doh, theatre was created and Prams in the Hall was born.

What’s the reason behind the company name, Prams In The Hall?

Prams In The Hall is taken from a quote from Cyril Connolly’s book, The Enemies of Promise: “There is no more sombre enemy of good art than the pram in the hallway.” This phrase has come to be used as short hand for the difficulties of carrying on a career, particularly in the arts, when you have children. We chose to use the phrase as we are taking on the challenge of creating theatre whilst being a parent and it describes the way we work: with our prams in the hall! By deliberately choosing the plural of pram, we also like to encourage parents in the arts to 27

join our quest to no longer regard a pram in the hallway as an obstruction to their work but a creative challenge.

What would you say is the aim and ambition of the company?

What do you hope to achieve?

We feel that there is a lack of practical advice and consideration in the arts when it comes to pursuing your career once you have a young family. Prams In The Hall are dedicated to exploring practical solutions to these issues while creating work.

We do not have all the answers, but we are a company whose focus is to boldly try possible solutions and actively include other artists, hopefully demonstrating that careers don’t have to come to a halt for those who desire to raise a family.

As parents and artists yourselves, I’m sure you’ve all come up against barriers and notions that say you can’t balance both aspects successfully. What would you say to that?

The people we have spoken to so far, especially those involved in the arts, have been enthusiastic and supportive of our ideas.

Prams In The Hall was created out of a simple challenge: How to create theatre if you don’t have childcare in place. It is one of the first problems theatre professionals, especially female actors, come up against once they have given birth. What to do with a baby or young child when you are called for an audition? What if you get a part that doesn’t pay enough to

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cover the high expense of childcare? What happens if your child gets ill during a production? How do you handle show times and bed times for your children if there is no help? And can you still tour?

Unfortunately a lot of theatre practitioners who have become parents have felt forced to turn down jobs they wanted and a high percentage of actors have had to change their career once they became parents. We are under no illusion that handling parenthood and career is easy, but we want to challenge the situation a lot of creatives find themselves in once a baby arrives.

One of your unique angles is that you allow children of all ages to be in the creative space for your rehearsals and workshops. Why did you decide to do this and what do you think the advantages of doing this are?

We all individually brought our children into the process for our own work before Prams In The Hall formed. Many artists do. It was only when we worked on ‘Medea Pastiche’ that the idea of allowing the collective of children in the space to inspire the work came about. The decision, like most, was a practical one. There was an opportunity to work, but no pay.

You have kids, what do you do for childcare? You can’t afford a sitter or get your child on short notice into a day care. So the only option is to bring them with you. As artists, we are inspired by life around us anyway. As for the children, they are used to doing their own thing while mummy/daddy work. How great would it be to involve them! And for the children it is a fun social environment where they can play together and discover new things/learn new skills whilst being close to their parents. Children in the room remind us of the basic essence of the work- to play. Freely giving way to the circumstances in the surround, you act upon them. In doing so, the results are fresh and bursting with life.

How do you deal with the personal conflicts between your creative careers and being parents? This brings to light many questions we are exploring in our current piece ‘The Inner Life of Sophie Taylor’. How do you deal with essentially being a good parent/spouse and not lose yourself, which is the basis of your art? What happens when there does not seem to be enough time in the day to be inspired as an artist or when the only outlets to your life are family-friendly? There are always conflicts between family life and work in all industries, but when it comes to a career in 30

the arts, it is an extremely emotional decision to choose between doing what’s right for your family and what is right for yourself. At some point, you feel you may lose yourself if you keep sacrificing your career for your family. On the other hand, your family means everything to you. We are finding the key to handling major conflicts are communication and occasional compromise.

Can you tell us about the development of your latest project The Inner Life of Sophie Taylor and what it’s about?

‘The Inner Life of Sophie Taylor’ is about a woman who is conflicted in her desire to paint and her need to look after her young children. The play is about the re-awakening and strengthening of Sophie’s identity as an artist, and the effects that has on her family life. We are currently working with artists, parents and children to explore the emotion pull of children versus the artistic impulse and how best to capture that struggle for the stage.

You also work hand in hand with the Young Vic on one of their inclusive initiatives WITWAF? Can you tell us more about your involvement and how it came about?

WITWAF stands for Working In Theatre With A Family. The group have been discussing ways the theatre industry can begin to accommodate the growing number of new parents in the field and the issues we are facing.

Our hope is to enhance the group with a focus on career development for emerging directors/designers who have families.

What projects are you currently working on or have coming up? Any future projects up your sleeve?

In terms of upcoming projects, Prams in the Hall will be having an open access workshop on September 8th 2013 and will also be part of the Lewisham Fringe Festival in November. Check out www.pramsinthehall.com for details.

To keep up to date with Prams In The Hall, you can Follow them on Twitter, Like them on Facebook or just head over to their Website.

Author: Kamran Assadi (@kamranassadi) Photos by Elaine Wong, Pete Corkhill and Abby Ford

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GEISHA

BELLA JASMINE

CHAUNA 35

We are joined by the following amazing female cosplayers: Kadri Zolf Kimblee Umut, Jasmine Shockolate Energy Phillips, Bella Soothsayer, Chauna Rochette, Kimihako blade and last but definitely not least Ms. GeishaIV. Welcome ladies to this special issue of cosplay zone where we celebrate all you lovely women and your bountiful “blessings.”

Bella: Booobiesssss!

Kadri: Yes I fucking loves me some boobies! Hell I think any size if you got them big or small and your cosplay flatters them show them off!

Geisha: Makes sense, hah hah.

Jasmine, Chauna, and Kimihako: Thank you, Davence for having us.

Thank you ladies, for taking the time out of your busy schedules to sit here and chat with me today.

Kadri: I find that to be a wonderful cause and reason for a special issue.

How long have you lovely ladies been cosplaying for?

Chauna: 6 yrs Jasmine: 5 yrs Geisha: 8 yrs Kimihako: Little over 3 yrs now.

Kadri: 18 yrs Bella: 2 yrs Nice, you ladies have definitely invested a lot of time in this wonderful subculture. So ladies what are some of your favorite cosplays you have done, past and present?

Bella: Beast and Homura probably, I love them all though.

How long did it take you to build her?

Bella: About 3 months minus the wig, the actual sewing was about 3 months. I tried buying the fabric in September but I ended up getting the wrong fabric. So I gave up until January when I got a sewing machine of mine own to work on. It took a good 80 hours or so to make though.

Nothing like having the right tools for the job. Chauna what about you?

Chauna: I would have to say my first Final Fantasy cosplay: an original character I’ve been roleplaying as since 1997. Chantaru A. Highwind, and for my present character I would say Helena Harper from Resident Evil 6.

Kadri: My current favorite costume is Geralt of Rivia (the Witcher games), because I am in love with the novels and the games. Another favorite is “Lightning”. I know people say she was an attempt at a female Cloud but to me I did not see it. If anything they failed but in a positive way Lightning is caring but outwardly cold and bitter whereas Cloud was just emo. Both had great characters though, and one of my most favorite all around is Morpheus/Dream/The sandman it’s a favorite character, series and author and I love the look. He has it’s very Robert smith 80’s Goth looking. I absolutely love being him, and for just pure badassness I love Nuada, I do not think I will ever retire prince Nuada.

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Gotcha, I have to say I love the O.C. (Original character) version of the Lulu bathing wear you have shown me. How long did it take u to make that one?

Kadri: The Lulu swim suit was so last minute for a beach and park gathering that I thankfully had so many gypsy/mage looking things in my possession already I pieced it together from other things, but pulling them all off other costumes took a good 4 hours of searching because I have so many. the wig it self-took about a week to make. I used a base and modified it all, and made the braids from a micro braid weave braided together.

Geisha: Fave outfits in the past: Burlesque Poison Ivy, Tia Halibel release form. Current Fave outfits: Sthenos, Amaterasu, Black Cat & Black Cat Symbiote Queen! By the way, Davence I’m debuting my Black Cat Symbiote this weekend. I don’t know when you’re posting your article but if you could hold off till after I debut that costume I’d appreciate it. It’s Super Hush, Hush!

Kimihako: Neliel Tu from Bleach is my personal favorite, simply because she is my first cosplay. A couple of other cosplays that I have also thoroughly enjoyed are Saeko Busujima from High school of the Dead, and Black Cat from Marvel Comics. The reasons why they are my favorites include their personalities, character stories, and the costumes’ comfort ability.

Jasmine: Tsunade and my new one is Dragontie and Yukiko.

Ladies what was the Hardest part of your costumes that you had to overcome to complete the build?

Bella: The bust and boning, definitely. The skirt was easy, it’s a simple miniskirt but… working the cups into an under bust corset and making it so my boobs stayed up, my waist in, and the collar and

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sides didn’t cut into me awkwardly was difficult.

So was it the boning that gave you issues?

Bella: The boning is easy, just cut and pop in the channels, but getting the fit around the bust was super annoying. I had to redo it probably 4 or 5 times ... It has to be with a top that skin tight and specific.

Yeah I have to admit the top of the beast cosplay is actually a very unique design. Borderline steampunkish.

Bella: Here’s a ref if you need/want! : “Beast, cleavage area.” I got a few “are you a dominatrix?” questions at the con. Made me sad...

I would’ve said bend over and lick my boot and you may find out.

Bella: I just got offended like beast would and gave them the whip.

What about you Jasmine?

Jasmine: Well my friend Sliva helped me with my build, but the hardest thing was when the sewing machine broke at the last minute. This was the day before Colossalcon.

So with your sewing machine down, how where you able to complete it?

Jasmine: We had to hand sew it, but we got it done on time!

What was the most fun you had building the costume?

Jasmine: Oh my God we had so much fun with it all.

Since I can guess the Dragontie cosplay was probably more difficult to create then your Tsunade cosplay, where there any issues that arose in building her cosplay at all or was it easy going the whole way?

Jasmine: It was pretty easy doing everything... Actually the boots... I have wider calves. The shoes I got didn’t work at first.

Ah so did you modify the shoes you got or did you make some more from scratch?

Jasmine: No I bought better fitting boots...

Chauna: Do one’s that are underway count? If so, I would have to say my Female Two-Face Cosplay is thusly then the hardest.

I’ll admit, most of my cosplays normally come from everyday clothes I have... I’m not sure if that’s still a good thing or not. Ha ha.

Sure they count. So what challenges are you having to deal with Two-Face?

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Chauna: I’m going to have to alter fabric so that I have a clean split down the middle for a black side and a white side for the suit. Never thought that would be as hard as it’s turning out. Luckily, the makeup isn’t as bad as thought it was going to be. I’m glad I was just finally able to find a correct decade pattern finally.

Very cool, so are you doing prosthetics on your face or just straight makeup?

Chauna: Just make up for now. Maybe later when I get braver I’ll try for prosthetics, as long as I can find some that don’t have latex in them.

Any challenges you came across in your cosplays Kimihako?

Kimihako: Surprisingly, probably Neliel. Despite her simple character design, I struggled to adapt it to real world settings. Considering it was my first cosplay, I also had to learn a lot of other skills including how to apply makeup, choosing materials, and posing. I practically revised Neliel’s costume three full times which included everything but the helm skull. Thankfully, her skull was completed on first attempt.

Despite her simple design, I really wanted to bring attention to the details which is why it became such a long-winded journey of trial and error. However, my efforts were totally worth it.

Glad to hear they followed your instructions, ha ha. So ladies, do you ever come across any challenges being a busty woman when it comes to your cosplays?

Geisha: I’d say Starfire simply because I’d never used Worbla before and neither had my seamstress.

We had to learn the various temps at which to soften the material and mold it. Watched tutorials on painting it and even did research on the LEDs. Plus every gemstone is handmade, there are 24 in total and they all light up. Truly the most complex cosplay, so far ... My seamstress added the boobie covers because the laws of physics don’t account for real breasts, hehe.

Kimihako: Thankfully, not really. Mine are well behaved.

Jasmine: Usually I’m thinking about cosplays that have to be modified a lot sadly... like as a plus size cosplayer... It is hard you need to make sure everything will look right especially when it a low cut top but luckily it works out.

Ah so a lot of cosplays that do not cater to your ample breast size or ones that you need to go even bigger with?

Kadri: Beast, it was custom made by a friend WildMage007 and we had used my own bra and everything and being a steel boned corset it honestly is the hardest thing to lace everything in and keep them from popping out, haha. I try though don’t want to accidentally do that. Believe it or not it is harder to keep them in that than to bond for FtM costumes and looks.

Yeah very true me being a big dude I definitely can relate to that. So ladies since I noticed that a few of you incorporate corsets into your cosplays, is it hard to wear when you are blessed in the bust region?

Kadri: In this case no, if it is an under bust style so it only crushes the bottom 1/3 of the girls. The waist on the other hand and bending is the hard part because you are stiff like a robot.

Geisha: Corsets were actually originally designed for robust women. So they naturally help with back support and holding the ladies in place. All you need is someone to cinch you in tight enough to still be comfortable. All of my corsets are made with steel boning for the best fit and support.

Bella: I’m actually investing in an under bust at the moment just for my own uses, and I’ll use it under two outfits next year. Mostly that is to trim out my hip flare though.

Ah gotcha, well hips are good, too. With that corset you are getting it will give you a killer hourglass shape.

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Bella: I am sure I will look ridiculous when I get to tight lacing eventually. Ha-ha.

Speaking of corset and boning and keeping the girls wrangled in properly, Kadri has done some simply amazing Crossplays. For those of you unfamiliar with this term “Crossplay” it means to do a cosplay of a character of the opposite gender as yourself. So basically if you r a female doing a male based cosplay or if you are a man to do one as a woman. Doing one of these can be especially challenging depending on how your body is built. Kadri in my eye is an amazing expert on pulling this off, as her sandman, and Prince Nuada cosplays are flawless. Kadri I am sure our female readers out there that have considered doing a crossplay have questions about how about “Binding”, what is a good and safe way of doing it?

Kadri: I suggest buying, if you are larger D cup or bigger, a chest binder. Kabiny has some cosplay quality ones but you HAVE to hand wash them; they are the safest way in my opinion. Another method, is to double up 4 way stretch lycra and make a sleeveless shirt out of it, but make it 2 inches smaller than your under bust and you get the pull over kind, body glue, or the tops of old thigh highs sewn in will help it from rising up or even a tie at the bottom.

Well there you have it ladies that want to crossplay, the safe way to bind via Kadri Zolf Kimblee Umut.

Kadri: Hope it helps some busty gals out!

So ladies what does being a busty and smart cosplayer mean to you? Is it a strength or hindrance?

Bella: It’s a hard balance between... being respected for my hard work, and putting my girls to good use because I have a sort of advantage. I guess because of how anime and video game characters are built a lot of the times. They have unrealistic bodies that I can’t even fit as big as I am.

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Chauna: Being a busty cosplayer is really still being a cosplayer... you just have a fleshy shelf attached to your chest. ha! One main bonus that I’ve found is that you don’t have to worry about not having the anime boobs that are required. But at the same time, kind of makes it hard to crossplay or bind down at times. And not being able to see your feet... that’s a little bit of a down side, mostly when you have a long dress that you’re trying not to step on!!

Giesha: For me it means I get to create wonderful art that brings smiles to all kinds of people from around the globe. It means I get to stand out in a positive way amongst the thousands of cosplayer’s around the world. Promoting positive body imagery within each cosplay that I do. My Starfire is a perfect example of this. Proving you don’t have to be naked or skinny to cosplay a sexy character and still look great!

Kadri: it means it’s hard to find what fits. It’s hard to do FtM and that when you do finally usually customize or modify something to fit, it’s the same kind of joy. I believe smaller chested women feel when they get something to work for them up top, it’s usually after a lot of needles and thread and frustration you make things fit. But also to me, I find the female form flattering, nothing I love more than to see a woman showing off what she’s got, rather she be busty like me or petite I think women are beautiful and you just can’t go wrong when your cosplay shows off cleavage or fits perfectly like a second skin.

Kimihako: I have to be more appreciative of the girls and mindful on my presentation. Even though I am blessed to have such lovely ladies, I wish to present myself in such a way that folks are at ease to approach me. I am not all about my boobs, they are merely just a part of me. I mostly have received reactions of disbelief and approval, but from time to time, there are some who don’t agree with my presentation.

Jasmine: it’s both, the reason why it’s a strength is because it feels like it gives me motivation. The other plus size cosplayers... showing them that you can look nice in costumes as long as you modify correctly. The only reason why it’s a hindrance is only because of stupid people that think just because your plus size means you have to do a larger character.

So very true, I have seen some amazing cosplays done by plus size folks and some that look like they built it in ten minutes on skinny cosplayers, and the same vice versa. Do you like that there are a lot of busty anime/ video game characters that you can chose from?

Jasmine: I love that they are coming out with more busty characters. it makes me feel warm inside.

And it gives me way more options to what I might want to cosplay in the future. I’m glad.

Kimihako: Yes I do.

Chauna: That’s a little tricky... mostly because I’m stuck in the middle. While I love having more and more to work with, at the same time I feel it could make others less likely to try to cosplay the characters they like, because of the fact they “are not big enough.” For lack of better terms, it’s really a double-bladed sword for me.

I hear you; I have seen a lot of woman that use padded bras though or other things to make up for the lack of breast blessings.

Chauna: True, and if they’re comfortable with that, more power to them!! I just hope that there will still be a good mix of big and small chested characters so that every girl of every size can be comfortable.

Yes, I have definitely seen that, I am also happy to see more plus sized men portrayed as heroes in anime as well; not every male hero has the abs of a god, Haha.

Chauna: No, no they don’t. Haha.

What are some of the interesting doors cosplay has opened for you ladies?

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Kimihako: Oh yes, it certainly has. For instance, I was able to travel to the Bay Area in California and participate at Fanime!

Oh very nice! Always happy when that happens. How was your first experience at Fanime?

Kimihako: It was the most incredible experience I’ve had to date. I saw so many awesome cosplayer’s, hung out with the kindest people I’ve known, and just had fun even though I was working the convention. It was absolutely surreal to be there. Because of my Fanime experience, I’m definitely more inspired and driven to accomplish my life goals.

Very nice! I know you are also an accomplished web designer, has it helped you in that area as well?

Kimihako: Indirectly yes. I actually have a few clients who contacted me because of our mutual connections to individuals in the cosplay community.

Kadri: I am actually doing a special favor for Everette Hartsoe who is doing a RAZOR reboot to those who remember that awesome series. It is coming back, with a few changes but personally I am excited as i am not only his friend but a fan. I will be there with him as Razor both days and will have another character of his “Stryke”, Razor’s sister with me cosplayed by my dear friend Mandy “Toxic. Rainbow.

Cosplay” so if any lovely ladies reading this would like to come hang out, I certainly will not complain one bit!

Looking forward to the reboot! For those folks out there that do not know what a reboot of “Razor” is can you briefly give them an idea of it?

Kadri: Certainly! A reboot in this case is RAZOR basically being released again in a similar story, but with some changes made.

Not so many changes it will offend the classic fans, but enough changes to bring in a new crowd as well. Old fans can look at it like a “different universe” of the story, whereas new fans may enjoy the newer stuff and become interested in the original series. All in all from what I have seen, heard and read about this reboot, I am interested in seeing this. To me it will be like an alternate version of RAZOR which you continued on pg. 59 42

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by iew v r te

e enc Dav

g

n You

In

Hello cosplay engineers, I wanted to Share with you good folks, some of the truly altruistic things cosplayer’s do for the community and grea t causes. With tha t said Let me introduce Casey from Cosplay for a Cure! Welcome to the cosplay zone Casey!

What are some of the things your organization does for the strong ladies fighting breast cancer?

Hi and thanks for having us. One of the main things we do is run our Photo Booth at various conventions in and around the Toronto/Niagara Region Area to raise awareness about breast cancer while also raising money for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

Oh nice so you are Canada based. What are some of the conventions you frequent?

Yes we are strictly Canadian based. Since July of 2012 we have been at the following conventions Con-Bravo, The Canadian/Burlington ToyCon, Emiko’s Mini Con, FrostCon, the Waterloo Video Game Swap, Anime North and Niagara Falls Comic Con. We will also be back at Con-Bravo this year celebrating our 1 year anniversary, as for the rest of this year we can confirm we will be at not only ConBravo but Atomic Lollipop and will return to the Canadian ToyCon in September as well Very nice, seems like a lot of great venues to spread the word, do you raise funds as well for breast cancer research or mainly spread the knowledge and awareness about it?

Our goal at our photo booth is to give convention-goers the opportunity to have their photo professionally taken with any or all of our costumed models, and printed for as little as $2. All money raised at our booth goes to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

Awesome! How many models do you currently have or do u rotate them in and out?

Between our models and photographers we currently have 20 of us involved in Cosplay for a Cure and depending on work schedules and life as we are a volunteer-run organization it does very from convention to convention as to who is available, but we do always try to have at least 3 models plus a photographer at ever convention we go to.

Very nice plus allows for some variety in the models and photographers. What do you think of the speed at which the research is going? Is it too slow, are not all avenues being explored, or do you think stuff is proceeding along at a good and safe pace?

Yes it does allow us to have a nice variety within the group and for our loyal supports that find us and donate at every convention they can.

That is great to hear that folks come and look for you to be able to donate to this very impor45

tant cause. What do you think of the speed at which the research is going? Is it too slow, are not all avenues being explored, or do you think stuff is proceeding along at a good and safe pace?

In all honesty I would have to say that given the complexity of the human body and everything we do to it on a daily bases, and that I am not a scientist or researcher in the medical field that it is hard to say where the research is currently as not every find or set back is published up to the minute for the general public. I do know from talking with Shannon (our friend who inspired the booth) that there have been great strides in regards to Chemo in how it is delivered and the side effects that occur.

Great my dad passed from cancer, I have seen firsthand what Chemo does at least to a man, and it has some bad side effects, I am glad to hear they have made strides in that. Have you guys ever thought about coming to a convention in the state to further spread the good word?

We would love to do some American conventions in the future, but as of right now we are only working with the Breast Cancer Foundation of Canada. There are different regulations for the US Breast Cancer Association, and being a Canadian non-profit organization there are also legal issues that we would need to address.

Gotcha the famous red tape, it is a wicked beast we also need to slay. Are there any support groups in Canada that women who are battling this disease can turn to for support and good advice?

Yes they are out there and the best way to find them is to ask at the hospital or cancer center where you or a loved one is getting treated also ask the nurses, doctors and even other people getting treatment for any places they might know. I do know that Shannon has had a lot of help via the Juravinski Cancer Center in Hamilton which is where she went for her treatments.

Awesome, I am sure that will definitely give breast cancer fighters and their loved ones an avenue to go down. Alright last question Casey, What sort of advice can u personally give to a woman today fighting that good fight against this malicious disease, what can you say to give her a smile and some pep in her step for the day?

The advice I give to the Woman who are fighting this every day is something I have learnt from my dear friend Shannon who is fighting this malicious disease. Attitude is everything! Having a positive attitude can go a long way when it comes to kicking this thing in the ass, and if we can come together and cure one cancer, then we can cure them all! Stay strong support each other and find that one thing in your life no matter how small that makes fighting and beating this worth it.

Awesome heart felt words, I am very happy there are folks like you helping others with this ugly disease, thank you for taking the time to chat with me!

No Problem Davence, Thanks for having us.

Folks Casey has a page here on facebook, here is the linkhttps://www.facebook.com/CosplayForACure if you would like to donate to this very valid cause or are in the Toronto area and would like to donate in person at one of their many events!

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THE

SMTH

PROJECT FTF got a chance to chat with Smitty Corlione himself, SMTH, about his latest project, The SMTH Project, and what’s next for the Brooklyn MC.

H

T

How did you get your start in Hip Hop? It all started with me falling in love with hiphop as a culture, it was one of the few things that represented me and my generation to the fullest. From Grafitti, break dancing, djing, and emceeing. Whenever I stepped out my house it was there and I knew from a young age that I wanted to be apart of it.

Who were your biggest influences?

The Notorious Big and The Wu Tang Clan. BIG was the first rapper that I wanted to be. I grew up not too far from where he lived and that created the dreams of me wanting to become a rapper. At the time I could barely rhyme two words together but I knew this was what I wanted to do. As a kid I met almost every member of Wu Tang on different occasions. I always told them I was a rapper and each member kept telling me the same thing. “keep working at it and you’ll be the best,” so I never stopped.

Tell us more about the SMTH Project. What inspired it and what can audiences expect from it?

The Project was inspired by me wanting respect as a dope Emcee. I also wanted to create something that would stand out 10 years from now. You can expect a high level of lyricism and a new sound sonically.

What is artistry to you?

Artistry is self expression. Plain and simple.

Are you big on other forms of art?

Yes, I have the utmost respect for anyone who can create according to their reality. There’s a huge difference between copying and creating.

How was the experience working with Capital Steez?

I enjoyed working with him. Knowing he was a dope rapper made me want to step my bars up for that track. What we created will be apart of history years from now.

What were you able to take away from working with Mic Tyson himself, Sean Price?

I’m not a fan of rushing verses for the sake of looking cool. I take my time when I write, but Price makes me aspire to be better and faster.

He wrote and laid his verse in less than 15 minutes. That blew me away.

That session gave me a different outlook on writing. Now I always challenge myself to get my thoughts and emotions out quicker.

What’s your favorite track on the project?

A few days ago it was Ticket 2 The Moon, now it’s Hate Me. That song took alot to write, and even more of me to record. I can’t wait to perform it live.

If there were any one artist, dead or alive, standing in front of you right now, what would you want to say or ask them?

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If I could speak to Michael Jackson I would ask him how was the vibe in the studio during the writing and recording process of the Thriller album.

What’s been the hardest part of building yourself as an artist in this industry and how do you combat it?

The hardest part is separating yourself in the publics eye from the other million rappers that are out. the craft is being viewed as a joke, most people dont take it serious to hear you’re an emcee. I just continue to do everything according to me.

What are your views on the current NY Hip Hop Scene?

I LOVE IT!!! It’s ready for me to step in and fuck shit up!

What is the next phase of focus now that the project is out?

More videos, more shows, and more growth as an artist. My next project will shake up the world.

What advice would you give anyone trying to make it as an artist?

Focus on creating your own footprint in the sand and don’t try to fit someone else’s. https://soundcloud.com/smth718 http://www.datpiff.com/SMTH-The-Smth-Project-mixtape.504425.html

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44 50

RISING ARTISTS THAT YOU SHOULD GET TO KNOW

ARINMAYA /JAZZ/NU-SOUL ARTIST ArinMaya is a Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter and accessories designer (ArinMayaMade (in BK)) hailing from the south side of Chicago. She seeks to spread the joy of sound to audiences everywhere and aims to incorporate her commitment to sustainability into her original re- and up-cycled designs.

Her vocal and writing styles draw influences from visionaries like Bobby McFerrin (with whom she has studied vocal improv), Nina Simone, Amel Larrieux and India.Arie, and her performances are fertile ground for musical exchange between ArinMaya and her audiences.

A lover of many different styles of music, ArinMaya skillfully navigates her way through jazz, folk, hip-hop, soul and electrobeat, blending her warm round tones with her unique sense of wordplay. Her body of work reflects her love for collaborating with like-minded producers and artists, including Nakia Henry, Chaz Van Queen, P.SO the Earthtone King, Maya Azucena, Theimagination, John Robinson, Rich Medina and many more.

With a virgo-born determination to achieve each and every one of her dreams, ArinMaya hopes to spread her music to the world. She has performed in cities from Paris to Berlin, from Washington DC to Chicago, and in New York venues including Harlem Stage, Billie’s Black, the Shrine World Music Venue, friends’ living rooms and more. Her releases include several singles, three EPs - The Sound of ArinMaya, Her Imaginings and ArinMaya Remixed - and one full length album, Let the Love Come. Follow her sound, style, music and movement at www.arinmaya.com.

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WEEKEND MONEY /HIP HOP ARTISTS “New York City is everything. We wouldn’t have made this project if we didn’t live here. There are so many people, personalities, stories, sounds, etcetera everywhere you turn,” explains Weekend Money lyricist Ne$$ of the theme behind their new EP Naked City, due out early fall. “The city is the muse for this project.

Weekend Money, compromised of aforementioned NYC/Philly MC Ne$$ (member of Dead Prez affiliated group A-Alikes) and Brooklyn by way of Iraq producer/vocalist Baghdaddy, aren’t the first to cite the city of New York as a major influence on their work. New York has it’s fair share of acts in a flourishing hip hop scene, but the duo are a perfect example of New York’s multicultural melting pot and their music is no different. Weekend Money’s debut EP, Naked City, is a contagious blend of underground hip hop, ‘hood street swagger and spaced out beats that play like a diary of a NYC hustler touching on his experiences and thoughts and revealing both the glamour and grime of the city.

“Naked City speaks to what we were going through while recording the EP. It’s about New York and our perceptions of it. If you line the tracks up by date of creation, they tell the story of our past year and the trials we went through - the hope, the pain, everything,” says Baghdaddy.

The duo first came together when a mutual friend introduced them at a party.

At the time, NE$$ was working on a solo effort and was seeking producers for the project. Knowing that Baghdaddy had never produced for a rapper before, NE$$ was interested in hearing what he could bring to the table. The two began experimenting with different sounds and ideas eliminating samples from all production and using everything from Fisher Price xylophones to the sound of drumming on trees for beats. The recording process saw the duo learning from one another with NE$$ educating Baghdaddy on the history and elements of hip hop and Baghdaddy introducing the rapper to chord progressions, new production techniques and music theory.

What may have at first seemed like an unlikely pairing, Weekend Money is an example of two passionate musicians coming together to grow and expand their artistic palette, mining their own sonic differences and tastes. Naked City serves as a glimpse into the life of a hustler but also sets the stage for a new burgeoning music scene - one that blurs genres and allows artists to move beyond any previous set boundaries.

“We just create and work toward making something special. I don’t think we’ve ever tried to sound like someone else and that’s reflected on the album,” explains Baghdaddy. “New York City took me in and I belong here. The whole music scene is wide open and we can make whatever we like.”

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WATCH OUT NOW

Thre3 /MUSIC PRODUCER

Darklyght Productions is a multi-media production company created, owned, and operated by Mario “Thre3” Rivera III. Based out of Gainesville, FL and born into a very creative family, Thre3 grew up listening to all sorts of music ranging anywhere from Jazz, Funk, and R&B to Rock, Punk, and many different types of Electronic music as he got older. More recently however, he’s been heavily influenced by the art and music that’s coming out of New York City, Chicago, London, France, and Japan. Thre3 mixes musical genres in a way that gives him a production style all his own. His goal is to one day work alongside big name artists in the entertainment industry. https://www.facebook.com/DarklyghtProductions https://www.reverbnation.com/musician/thre3

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WATCH OUT NOW

ILLSPOKINN /HIP HOP ARTIST

iLLspokinn has been one of New York’s hip-hop cornerstones for over a decade through both his contributions to the scene and his scene-stealing performances.

In addition to rocking the stage, iLL has made a reputation setting it for a number of successful and well-received events. He co-founded and co-hosts Freestyle Mondays, the longest running freestyle hip-hop open mic in New York City, now entering its eleventh year with recent international incarnations launched in Prague and France. iLL has also, alongside Tru Statement Entertainment, been the driving force behind the live Props to Hip-Hop concert series, a rap tribute multi-artist performance that’s quickly become one of Manhattan’s most buzzed about hip-hop events. ​ This year, iLL expanded into the boardroom as the co-founder, Vice President and Manager of the independent multimedia production company Rae Maxwell Inc. ​ When considering iLL has also had a #1 iTunes single, a chart-topping song in Spain, an album released as part of Rawkus Records’ Rawkus 50, a starring role in promotional spots for MTV, collaborations with Sadat X of Brand Nubian and most recently a series of successful international DJ tours (DJ VYNiLLspokinn), it’s proof he’s a success on both sides of the spotlight. http://www.illspokinn.com

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WATCH OUT NOW

L.A. /HIP HOP ARTIST

An artist beyond measure, and the nonchalant badass, L/\ is ready to be a leader in the Hip Hop revolution. Embarking on her rap journey in 2010 as just a spoken word poet with a passion for Hip Hop, L/\ decided to take the rap game into her own hands in her first ever cypher, “We Got Bars I”, and has hit the ground running ever since. Born in the concrete jungle of Brooklyn as Latasha Alcindor, L/\ has always had a connection to the arts, including dance, photography, writing, acting, and now rap. She utilizes all of these skills as she cultivates her artistry.

Since 2010, L/\ has written, directed and starred in her own play, “The Memoirs of Hip Hop”, and performed in over 30 shows, including the Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival (2011), opening for Big Sean (2010), and headlining for Toronto, Canada’s “YES YES YALL” New Year’s Eve Extravaganza (2012). She was also featured in Rocawear’s “That’s Rocawear” campaign. In less than 2 years, her accomplishments have spoken volumes. With two mixtapes out, “The Presentation” and “The L.A. Riots: Mental Fatality”, L/\ has shown exponential growth musically and is only getting better. As of recent, you can see L/\ in the Reebok x Sound and Style-sponsored all-female cypher, “The Freestyle”, and amongst AllHipHop.com’s “Top 25 Underground Artists of 2011”.

If you were to ask L/\, a college graduate from Wesleyan University, why she does this? She would say,” it’s fate.” soundcloud.com/ucancallmela

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WATCH OUT NOW

SZA

/ALTERNATIVE ARTIST

SZA envelopes your soul at first listen. Coveting a special innocence about her, the Maplewood native laces her music with soul-quenching traces of seductive allure. It’s truly the subtleties that make a difference though; the floral imagery, the small touches on her production, her concise yet intense songwriting. It all molds together to form this beautiful package.

“I was raised on a lot of John Coltrane, Satchmo, Miles Davis, Billy Holiday, and Björk with an adult obsession of all things Wu-Tang,” says SZA. “ The one thing I’ve always admired is their ability to paint scenes with their sounds. When I write I usually let the beat saturate my mood and head space; that determines every scene and set design for any song, the rest is all secondary.”

The songstress was first noticed sharing stages with the likes of Canadian artist Colin Munroe, Asher Roth, and multiple Star Trak artists including Christian Rich.

Since then SZA has released a variety of soulful tidbits, ranging from features on some of your favorite artists tracks (to be released), to songwriting and solo cuts.

SZA’s sophomore EP ‘S’ is available for download on IAMSZA.com.

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MORE FROM THE ARTICLES....

Davence’s Cosplay Zone cannot go wrong with.

Awesome, I am definitely looking forward to it! Geisha, I know you keep a very busy schedule between cosplaying and being a MUA, how does cosplay translate into that, or does your cosplay inspire your make up skills and ideas?

Geisha: Both, depending on what other projects I’m doing it may inspire me to cosplay a character from an outside source other than a video game, movie or manga.

Also it does help when bringing certain “other worldly” characters to life. I like using prosthetics make up to really solidify to visual effect of particular characters. Take my “Amaterasu” for instance. I didn’t want to make her just a pretty girl in a yukata. If she is a wolf and goddess her appearance should reflect that. Thus her feral wolf snout and extended brow bone. She isn’t human so I cosplayed her as a wolf humanoid.

Hehe.

Kind of a bit like what you have done with some of your mermaid cosplay’s.

Geisha: Yes it’s the same Water Nymph but I keep evolving her into more nymph than human.

I love your take on her. Bella as I was going thru the pics of some of your cosplays, I came across one that both was very naughty and had me laughing my ass off, you have got to share the story behind the pic of the wad of money stuffed between the girls while you were in cosplay, heh heh.

Bella: OH MY GOD, yes! I had a private shoot with a couple of new friends we roped in. For blue exorcist, since hey Shura is kind of their teacher/leader and she’s a bit bossy anyway, I just asked if a few friends wanted in on our photoshoot. They said yes we went and shot. We went out to lunch at that overly crowded subway in the con center afterward, and my friend Kayge says “Well I better pay you back for my part of the shoot”, and pulls out his wallet.

He seriously has like... I didn’t know 30 dollars in ones in there. I was like “holy shit you look like you are going to a strip club,” and he said “it’s right here.” Then proceeded to give me the money right there, hahaha.

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I said “Only because I like you. And only this once”, apparently he claimed me as his stripper for a while I don’t know, hahaha. And that is how that picture happened.

I love some of the things that happen around cosplay. Stuff that would never happen that way anywhere else in life, unless you were a movie star!

So ladies, serious question of the day…What would you tell all those women out there fighting the good fight against this ugly disease known as breast cancer, what can you tell them to uplift their spirits and keep them smiling for another day?

Bella: Don’t listen to the save the boobies campaign, because you are worth more than the fatty tissue on your front side. There are lovely ladies under there who deserve to live full, happy lives, willpower goes a long way.

Chauna: Keep Fighting. It’s going to be hard, and there are days that rolling over and giving up would just be easier... but it’s not an impossible fight. You can win the battle against breast cancer.

Kimihako: Stay strong, keep your head up high, and move on forward with your best steps.

Believe in your willpower and seek strength among your support group.

Jasmine: don’t give up XD you can do it there so much support behind you and we will find a cure your such a inspiration XD Geisha: Don’t be discouraged, we have the knowledge and technology to save lives. Also if a breast removal is necessary there’s no reason to feel like you’re less of a woman. The breasts don’t define who you are, you do. Plus there’s plenty of cosmetic replacement boobs to help you feel normal again. I had an Aunt die from stage 3 breast cancer because she didn’t take advantage of our modern medicine.

So yeah, use the tech!

Kadri: That I know what it feels like to lose someone to cancer. Please don’t give up, if you lose the girls over it, its ok. You are still beautiful, don’t give up, don’t leave us and keep fighting no matter what. We love you, we need you to be strong because this world cannot afford to lose more people to cancer, and please never let a doctor tell you even if you have a mastectomy, and chemo that you will die anyway, I have seen near impossible cases come out and live to fight decades more! So ladies you

fight no matter what, you fight for us, your loved ones.

There’s others fighting with you because even though you do not know me, have never met me, might not ever meet me, I am with you and I love you and support you in every way. You fight and you beat the living heck out of life in the direction it needs to go, you claw your way out of that hole and I promise you my hand is there to pull your way out. No one ever give up if you get cancer, the world is fighting with you, and we need you very much. All my love to you going through this and I am with you.

Very profound words ladies, I am sure those good wishes reached some hearts that needed it today.

Are there any photographers you would like to credit for the amazing series of pictures you have submitted for this column?

Geisha: Yes, Ron Gejon Photography, Yassir Ketchum Photography, Carlos A. Smith and Elysiam Entertainment.

Kadri: “Cosplay North America” Kimihako: Mike Vickers of MV Photography in Birmingham Bella: These are the web sites of all the photographers that have worked with me: https://www.facebook.com/NekozukiCosplay https:// www.facebook.com/RedEnvelopePhotos?ref=ts&fref=ts ~HomuHomu: https://www.facebook.com/ AylasPhotography?ref=ts&fref=ts ~HomuHomu: https://www.facebook.com/ RiamuxCreations?ref=ts&fref=ts ] ~HomuHomu: And shelbie Bach Jasmine: Critical mass media, and Just Gerald media Chauna: : “Cosplay North America” Kadri: https://www.facebook.com/zolf.kimblee Kimihako: https://www.facebook.com/kimihako Geisha: https://www.facebook.com/GeishaVi Bella: https://www.facebook.com/NekozukiCosplay Jasmine: https://www.facebook.com/jasmine.s.phillips Chauna: https://www.facebook.com/TheEarthanGirl

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Available Now

Featuring “BlindSided” “Stylin’ Profylin’” and the latest single, “Strangers” www.Kolitionmusic.com Facebook.com/kolitionmusic twitter.com/kolition

FunktheFormula, Inc. 2013