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Vol. 4 No. 1 Sept. 2011

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Richmond is Haunted... and How to Deal

A Nightmare on Main Street Photo Shoot 9/5/11 3:02 PM

LETTER FROM THE

Hi and welcome to the first issue of Ink for the 2011-2012 school year!

Whether you are familiar with Ink and pick up a copy every time for the fashion, art, music, or student life segments, or new to the magazine entirely, we promise to pack every issue full of fantastic art, music, and culture, exciting surprises, and relevant content to keep you pouring over each issue front-to-back.

In this issue we explore all things fascinating, spooky, and otherworldly, from Halloween culture and the Richmond occult to Intellectual Hedonism, becoming a flesh-eating zombie, and giant musical aliens’ role in the fashion world. Check out our spreads on Halloween and the new movement started by Max and Jason the hedonists through mediums like Current TV, and don’t miss our amazing D.I.Y. zombie makeup tutorial, and, last but not at all least, our D.I.Y. Halloween costume photo shoot featuring the lovely Oderus Urungus (aka Dave Brockie), of GWAR. If you are interested in contributing to the magazine, see the contact information on this page and email us some of your work, or come to one of our weekly meetings at 7 pm on Mondays at the Student Media Center. Also feel free to send in any thoughts, suggestions, and negative or positive feedback. We hope everyone enjoys all the great things we have in store this semester!

Addison Herron-Wheeler Executive Editor

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Emily Eason Managing Editor

Carlista Martin Staff Writer

Rachel Maves Art Director

Teddy Gregson Ad Director

Lena Sinanian Staff Writer

David Osnoe Staff Writer

Amaris Lemus Staff Writer

Kelsey Wheeler Staff Writer

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Ink Magazine Contact us!

LIKE THE INTERNET? So do we!

VCU Student Media Center 817 W. Broad St. Richmond, VA 23220 804.828.1058

inkmagazine.vcu@gmail.com inkmagazine.tumblr.com

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES

CAMPUS LIFE

ARTS & CULTURE

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Sicily Study Abroad

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Richmond Is Haunted

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D.I.Y.: Halloween Face Paint

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Rumor’s Anniversary Party

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Halloween RVA

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Featured Musician: DJ Mike Phear

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Freshman Survival Guide

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Hula Hoop

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Featured Artist: Erik Fox

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Intellectual Hedonism

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Reviews

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Fashion: Oderus and Halloween

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CORRECTION

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Our Bad! In last issues’ “Ever-too-green story,” the woman referred to as Bonnie Davis, a VCU journalism professor, should have been Veronica Davis, Virginia Roots Director, Restoration Coordinator All Sites. Sorry for the mix-up!

Unpictured Staff: Danielle Harvey Takira Goss Peter Pagan Larisa Robinson Marleigh Culver Graphic Designer

Hunter Rye Graphic Designer

Hannah Swan Graphic Designer

Shelby Mertens Evelyn Escobar Ismail Vera Santos Ramos Corey Johnson Margaret Amonette Copy Editor Rachel Kiscaden Photo Editor Ying Cheng Graphic Designer

Shannon Ransom Staff Writer

Amir Vera Staff Writer

Santos Staff Writer

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Study Abroad:

Sicily

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“I feel it’s important to

gain insights from other cultures, especially in an art field, in order to challenge yourself to view things from an entirely new perspective.

�

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“When [Allyn] wasn’t busy with his schoolwork or sight-seeing, he spent his days simply relaxing on the beach, and cooling himself off in the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea.” 6

Takira Goss Photos by Allyn Smith Allyn Smith is a rising junior in the Photography & Film Department at Virginia Commonwealth University. Currently, he is practicing still photography focusing on experimental darkroom processes with 35mm black and white film stocks, as well as experimental, short filmmaking with 16mm. “Studying abroad has always been a huge aspiration of mine. I feel it’s important to gain insights from other cultures, especially in an art field, in order to challenge yourself to view things from an entirely new perspective,” says Allyn. Needless to say, the “Cinema in Sicily” program was perfect for Allyn.

The program was held partly in a small town called Noto in Sicily, then followed by a week-long film festival in Taormina. The students took 7 credits, which included a World Cinema class, an International Studies class, and an Italian Language class.

Going into the program, his personal goal was to further his insights into the world of

cinema by gaining the Italian perspective.

His passion for film is fairly new, one that he discovered during his freshman year at Virginia Commonwealth University in the Art Foundations program. However, he is already confident that this is the discipline he wants to devote his life to.

“It would be such an immense privilege to engage myself in this field of study while surrounded by a culture which I am unfamiliar with,” said Allyn just days before his departure.

While in Italy, Allyn found that the Sicilian culture was very different than the typical American lifestyle. He describes the people as “not having much, but not wanting much either.” The culture is very sensual and stress-free, which he said was evident in their filmmaking. He described the lifestyle as very “care-free.” When he wasn’t busy with his schoolwork or sightseeing, he spent his days simply relaxing on the beach, and cooling himself off in the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea when the blistering sun became a bit overwhelming.

This would often be followed by a European

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“siesta,” which is a short nap taken in the afternoon, ending with a truly authentic Italian meal and a glass of wine.

In addition to becoming lackadaisical in the Mediterranean Sea, Allyn’s favorite part of the program was the Taormina Film Festival. He was able to attend master classes with very notable directors, actors, etc. including Jack Black, Kevin Smith, Monica Bellucci, and Oliver Stone.

The program also included a pass that allowed him to view all the films that were showing, which he took complete advantage of. He felt this portion of the program took his experience to the next level, because now he was not only focusing on cinema from an Italian perspective, but had the opportunity to view work from contemporary filmmakers from all over the world.

His favorite films were Hawi, an arabic film shot in Egypt by director Ibrahim El Batout, and a french film entitled Sur la Planche by director Leïla Kilani. Allyn described the films as “innovative” using techniques that he was unfamiliar with but found to be very engaging. With this experience under his belt, he plans to continue his journey in filmmaking with aspirations to be an independent filmmaker or an editor.

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R u m o r 's A n n iv e r s ary

Par t y

Makes a Splash

On July 9th, Rumor’s held their fourth annual anniversary bash at Hadad’s Lake, home of the yearly Best Friends Day gathering. Consignment fashion enthusiasts gathered for a day of high-profile partying and fun in the sun.

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FRESHMAN GUIDE Peter Pagan Collage by Ying Cheng

After previously eluding high school’s evil hall monitors, creepy lunch ladies, and enduring the woes brought upon by teachers, you have finally graduated. You’ve worked hard for this opportunity and you’re ready to take the next big step in your life: College.

Ink Magazine wants to make sure you know the drill to survive your freshman year here at VCU. For the first time, you’re coming to a new place, living with a stranger in the dorms, and fending for yourself. Your first semester might feel like it’s too much to handle. Fear not: your acceptance letter is your ticket to better days.

Don’t lose sight of why you’re here.

You can choose to go to class, or to sleep in. You have the choice to go to that party or do your homework. Nobody’s there to take you by the hand and force you to go to class.

Sometimes doing the right thing isn’t the easiest, but remember that you are here for an education. Skip the party if there’s an important deadline. Trust me, there will always be another party going on.

Carry around your VCU ID card.

I know, I know. Responsibility. Who wants something extra to worry about, what with modern take-alongs such your phone, computer, keys… the list goes on. However, it's a wise choice to remember your card; You won't be able to access your dorm, print at the library, get local discounts from businesses, or ride the GRTC bus for free if you don't have your trusty little friend with you at all times.

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campus life Make friends with your dorm security guards.

Think twice before pissing off a dorm security guard, it could prove to make your life a living hell. You should know that these guards are also students, like you. However, the guards are required to sit down for 6 hour-shifts, endlessly watching a sea of students pass. The last thing you want is to create a situation or make yourself the source of any negative attention. One thing's for sure– you'll be seeing them again. Why not use that to your advantage? Talk to your security guards; give them a face to look forward to seeing during their horrendous shifts. Make sure they know your name. You never know when you might need that extra favor when you forget your ID for the third time.

Otherwise, you’ll be watching helplessly as a guard writes you a temporary ID pass that will incur an extra $30 dollar fee in addition to your recently steepened student tuition.

Nobody wants that.

Don’t buy books until the first week of class.

Typically, professors will hand out a syllabus the first week of class that will let you know exactly what you need. Read reviews online to find out if the professor actually uses the textbook. This can be an easy opportunity for you to save some cash, as some tests are based solely on the notes taken during lecture.

Establish Connections.

Now’s not the time to retreat into your shell. Be social and join clubs with friends. Make sure you talk to everyone you possibly can, even your professors. If you establish good relationships with your professors, they will be more open to helping you out. Professors love when you ask questions and interact during class discussions. Showing initiative to the right people could introduce you to great opportunities.

Make it a habit to check your VCU email address/Blackboard.

This isn’t the Stone Age. Professors will send important reminders to you via

your VCU email address or through Blackboard. Checking your email at 2 a.m. could reveal a reminder from your professor about the upcoming quiz at 8 that you forgot to study for.

Explore Richmond. Don’t go home every weekend.

VCU’s location makes it easy for you to explore the city.

Don’t limit yourself to the campus the whole year. If you go home for the weekend, you’ll miss out on building relationships. Go out walking with a group of friends.

Biking is also suggested for a faster, cheaper method to get around. Popular places like Maymont Park, Carytown, Shockoe Slip, Belle Isle, and Hollywood Cemetery are extremely close to VCU. if you don’t have your own set of wheels here on campus, try using Richmond’s public transit; the GRTC bus can get you from point A to point B quickly and easily.

There is more to life than Shafer Court.

Sure, it's where EVERYONE seems to go between classes, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This might seem like a shocker, but Shafer love dies down after the first few months of school. Luckily, there are other dining options around campus to choose from. For instance, Bleecker Street Café is a great Shafer alternative. Located on the first floor of Snead Hall, Bleecker Street features a fresh, healthy sandwich menu. RamBucks, Dining Dollars, and meal swipes can be used at multiple locations such as the student commons, as Pizza Hut Express, Subway, and Chik-Fil-A. Tuition will continue to rise, so get your money’s worth by taking advantage of VCU’s student resources. Remember that you’ve got everything you need at your fingertips; all you need to do is decide how you’re going to use it. Go to the Writing Center when you need help with your ten-page English paper. When you don’t know where to turn next, visit your adviser for guidance. Talk to your R.A. if you’re having roommate troubles. Oh, and try not to use all of your dining dollars the first month of school! •

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Richmond

is Haunted......

and how to deal with it My mother bought me sage brush seeds to grow in my college dorm. I told my good friend, Scientific Illustration major Michelle Sites, that I was going to burn them to be rid of any evil spirits plaguing the former hospital room I’d be staying in at VCU this year. She hurried over to a shrine-like side table in her living room and picked up a tied bundle of them, blackened at the edges, “Don’t bother. It just pisses them off. Besides, the smoke smells like marijuana.” As much as I would like to have the “No officer I wasn’t smoking, just trying to scare away the ghosts” conversation, I came to the conclusion that the living have the potential to be far scarier than the dead.

Now if there’s any place that could host a surfeit of spirits, Richmond has to be one of them. Our 17th-century River City is among the oldest established in the United States. VCU is situated on land once home to the Powhatan tribe, the Revolutionary War, Civil War, slave rebellions, 18th century gangs, and the Industrial Revolution.

Melanie Willing, a Forensic Biology major that lived in the old hospital dorm

reported, “my light would always randomly start flickering and I was always kind of creeped out by that.” Advertising major Osama Eqbal, disclosed a more in depth, chilling episode. “I was sleeping and heard and felt someone standing over my bed.

It just stood there whispering and I was so scared I couldn’t open my eyes.” These are among several individuals that described weird, glowing lights and felt chills, such as at night in Hollywood Cemetery (not naming names) and around campus.

Yet, for skeptics there is little evidence backing the legitimacy of the paranormal, superstition, and ESP (extrasensory perception). Take international magician and escape artist James Randi. He attempted to denounce ‘psychic power’ by putting up a 1 million dollar prize for anyone that could see an aura from over a brick wall. To my knowledge, no one has earned that money.

But one thing is for certain: many of life’s events are inexplicable. I could attempt to rout this oxymoron, but I’d rather burn marijuana-smelling sage brush and call it a night. •

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Halloween RVA

by Danielle Harvey art by Rachel Maves

Changing leaves, cooler temperatures, and pumpkin spice lattes are just some of the things I love about Fall. The semester has begun and most students are working to establish a routine to help deal with classes, sports, jobs, and their social lives.

After all, the life of a college student can be a little hectic. Students need something to look forward to, and what could be better than

Halloween?Since the days of trick-ortreating are behind us, the chance to go out with friends and get dressed up is enough cause to celebrate. Luckily, because we are in Richmond, VCU students have a variety of options to choose from.

Students love Halloween because we have the opportunity to put on a costume and be someone else for a night or two. Originally, this holiday was a combination of ancient religious practices and European folk tradition. In the 19th century, though, Halloween lost its religious connotation and became focused around activities such as trick-or-treating, parades, costume parties, and other means of celebration. Now that it’s time to trade in our jackets and boots for costumes, deciding where to go or what to do is the next step.If the idea of experiencing a haunted house intrigues you, then try making it to Edgewood plantation on the James River. This haunted plantation was even featured on the show Ghost Busters. The story goes that Lizzie Rowland was waiting for her fallen lover to return from the Civil War. Her spirit still haunts the grounds along with other ghosts from the past. Haunted tours are $10.00, and they are available from September through October.

Another event to consider participating in would be the Carytown Zombie Walk.

The 7th annual Zombie Walk will be on Saturday, October 29. If you can’t wait for the walk, there is a prewalk event held at Byrd Park. There will be prizes awarded for the most convincing zombies, such as most disgusting, best group theme, and 2011 zombie of the year. The dead have returned and they will be eager for some new victims, so proceed with caution on your journey.

If some of your favorite memories of Halloween were sharing ghost stories, then check out Haunts of Richmond Walking Ghost

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Tours. This nighttime event encompasses four different tours, including Shadows of Shockoe, Haunted Capitol Hill, Church Hill Chillers, and Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl. These ghost tours occur through the end of October and are $13.00 when you purchase tickets in advance. Each individual tour offers something different. For example, Shadows of Shockoe allows you to explore one of the most haunted neighborhoods in Richmond. The stories you hear about The Old Stone house or Civil War hospitals make this ghost walk truly unique. On Friday nights, tour Haunted Capitol Hill and be shocked to discover elected officials and security guards aren’t the only ones roaming the halls at night. If you’re free on a Saturday night, check out the Church Hill Chillers tour and investigate the eerie past of the Church Hill neighborhood. For the over 21 crowd, the Spirits & Spirits Pub Crawl, held on the third Wednesday of the month, might be a good option for you. Bring a friend along and visit some of the most haunted pubs in Richmond.

After a long week of classes and other activities, students need a little break. Located in the Shockoe Slip neighborhood is the Fishbowl Bar & Bistro. There is never a dull moment at Fishbowl with events such as karaoke Wednesday and music by DJ’s ALX and JINXX on the weekend..

Fishbowl has food ranging from fried calamari to chicken quesadilla’s and everything in between. For those of you who are over 21, try their notorious fish bowl punch or longboard tea. Regardless of your reason for going, the goal is to relax and have some fun with friends.

No matter what Halloween activities you choose to take part in, Richmond is the place to be. One of the many things that make this city so great is the diversity.

At VCU we not only have different types of people, but also various activities for students to participate in. From haunted houses and zombie walks to restaurants and bars, this Halloween will be a memorable one. After all, we don’t work so hard in school for nothing. So enjoy your chance to celebrate this holiday and maybe be someone else, even if it’s just for a little while. •

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“ The hoop can improve your

flexibility, help relieve stress, and of course, burn calories.

”

Go with the flow

by Emily Eason photos by Rachel Kiscaden

It is amazing how such a simple object, a piece of plastic, could do so much good for your body and even your mind. The hula hoop has been used as a form of dance, ritual and games since throughout time. There is a depiction on a vase in the Louvre of a man using a hoop and during the 14th century, it was apparently used for medical and even religious purposes.

However, its use became Americanized officially in 1957 when it was mass produced by the Wham-o toy company, when two friends, Richard Knerr and Spud Melin, were inspired by Australian bamboo exercise hoops. This mass production

worked and now the hula hoop continues to be used as a wonderful form of fitness, dance, and much more.

There are so many different forms of hooping and the possibilities for tricks and techniques make the whole process of learning very exciting and fun. The hoop can improve your flexibility, help relieve stress, and of course, burn calories. Just an hour of playing with a hula hoop can burn 400 to 600 calories, and it is very easy to keep hooping for hours. The hula hoop also has excellent use in meditation, the rhythmic flow of the hula hoop can be used as a tool to help ease your mind and

trust your body. With a few some simple tricks and lots of practice, hula hooping can easily help in improving your body, your mind, and your self-esteem.

First off, regular stance is the most important thing to learn, and it’s also quite easy. Just make sure your feet are at a comfortable distance apart, about at length with your shoulders. Using your hips, push the hoop off either right of left, depending on which side you are stronger with, and move in little circles along with the rhythm of the hoop. If it begins to wobble, just use your body to push the hoop back into rhythm.

Isolation is another fun trick that helps improve your arm muscles in major ways, and it is one of the more cool-looking tricks, too! First off, with your fist facing inwards, hold the hoop in front of you bent at the elbow. Think of your arm as a hand on a clock, and with that in mind, pull the hoop downwards, tracing where the different points would be on a big clock, 3 o’clock, 6 o’clock, 9’clock, midnight. As soon as you get to the point where you cant twist your wrist, let the hoop go and pass over the top of your hand, and there you go!

Revolving door is a super easy trick that can help with balance, timing, and is also a great arm workout. With the hoop over your head and your hands in a prayer stance, take one hand and flick the hoop down in front of you. Make sure you bend your back a tad and give the hoop some room to revolve.

Hooping is also a fun way to exercise your thighs, your hamstrings and even your calves with a simple leg trick. All you do is use the rhythm of the hoop and your leg muscles to push in little circles with either your left or right leg. Remember, you must practice and decide which flow is most comfortable for you.

Escalator is another really cool trick that can be fun to use in hoop dancing and workouts alike. Start off with the hoop hooked on one leg, then with your hand, push the hoop up from your leg. As you do this, pick up your other leg so the hoop has a clean path. When it passes your bent leg, make sure you have a hand up and ready to catch the hoop or it will fly off. After some practice, this trick can add a little flair to your hoop flow. •

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WHY WHY WHY DO WE WORK SO HARD? A look into American Hedonism David Osnoe Illustration by Rachel Maves I have asked myself many times now if any of this is worth it. The grueling collegiate schedule, the money problems, the expectations combined with the difficult task of trying to be social and go out on the weekends, all make for a stress filled existence for most of us. So is it worth it?

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When Max Lugavere and Jason Silva asked this same question, “Why do we work so hard?” they came up with their own evocative (and provocative) answer. The almost inevitable explanation seems to be that we do what we do in order to at some point enjoy ourselves. To have fun, to make love, to live excessively. This lifestyle has a name: Hedonism, but the ideology has been reborn with Max & Jason, and its reincarna-

tion is quickly and quietly becoming known as Neohedonism.

Neohedonism is partly the belief that we are here on planet Earth to enjoy ourselves rather than to suffer. Why should existence be harsh and grueling? Technological advances have increased life span, leisure time, and opportunities for work and play, so why not use what is available to us? Why not enjoy ourselves as much as we can? I’m not talking excessive drug abuse or alcohol consumption and neither are Max & Jason, rather we should be striving to end all human suffering in order to achieve the next level of human evolution.

So how do Max & Jason fit into Neohedonism? At the University of Miami, these two tan, brash young men created the documentary Textures of Selfhood, an experimental film about Hedonism & spiritual awakening. The documentary, at 12 minutes long, deals thematically with indulgence, and while detractors call it the pursuit of Grecian Frat-boy ideals, the core query remains: Is our Puritanical cultural perspective keeping us from pursuing deeper spiritual realities? After submitting the film to Current TV, David Neuman, the President of Programming called to offer them their own talk show which covers a wide range of topics from illegal immigration to philosophy. They recently sat down with Darren Aronofsky, the director of Requiem for a Dream, The Fountain and Black Swan. Since

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then, both Max & Jason have enjoyed a near iconic status while being provided the means to explore Neohedonism as a philo-

“We do what we do in order to at some point enjoy ourselves. To have fun, to make love, to live excessively.”

sophical movement. Americans, however, still seem to view Hedonism in general with a vague, skeptical mistrust. How can we end human suffering, and wasn’t Hedonism the cause of the Fall of the Greeks? Neohedonism, as espoused by British philosopher David Pearce, is an ethical rather than

physical imperative. Rather than endlessly satisfying our phyiscal desires, Neohedonism calls for abolishing human suffering as it exists today, with the technology and tools now available to us. Max & Jason are taking it a step further and asking: why not ALSO have fun? What is life but the pursuit of feeling good? They are using the interactive medium of Current TV to work towards not only exploring questions about the purpose of human existence but a myriad of other subjects, from fame as it exists today to the state of American media. The boys are working towards creating what they call, “smartertainment” AKA television content that has more meaning than an episode of Jersey Shore and less bias than Fox News.

Real information packaged documentary style and presented in ten minute “pods” has been Current TV’s claim to fame.

Our generation understands that an idea is only as good as the vehicle in which it is delivered in. Your poster project may be filled with important information and fresh facts, but if it’s a gluey mess then no one is going to give it the attention it deserves. That is how Current TV fits into

Max & Jason’s quest for discovery and dissemination. We shed our generational complacency with the status quo with the election of Barack Obama and have become content providers on an individual level, which makes for a massive amount of data production. Which brings us back to Neohedonism.

The big idea is this: with todays technological advancements, why do we still suffer? Shouldn’t we be basking in the glory of our achievements? The end of disease looms, new applications for science are constantly being formulated and meanwhile must we grind ourselves to dust? The resounding answer is: No. We can take time to have fun and in fact we must utilize these moments as much as we can to enjoy ourselves because to be frank: our time is limited. Instead of holding back we must move forward with fresh ideas, bold actions and meaningful experiences. We do not have to live in the past nor must we be slaves to the future because our time is now. •

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By Victoria Kremer Zombies are always a popular idea for Halloween. The makeup is affordable, the styles are endless and let’s face it, they’re cool. You can make zombies look as morbid, bloodied or traditional as desired.

This particular look is more of a flesheating zombie, which means more cuts, bruises and fake blood.

Face and Eye Materials:

Fingers (the easiest and most effective tool for blending) Small brush (can be a pointed paint brush for smalldetailed work) Any cheap makeup kit found at the drugstore on Halloween (Must contain red, maroon, dark blue, green) Stippling brush or sponge (easy to find in the drugstore by cosmetic sponges) Wax (any costume store has wax for around $4.00) OR 2-ply Toilet Paper with Liquid Latex

Step One:

FLESH-EATING ZOMBIE HOW-TO FOR OCTOBER 2011 18

On clean skin, use white face paint (any type of cream or liquid base) to adhere to the skin for the pale skin look zombies are known for. To create an undead look, using your fingers dab maroon, green and blue makeup on the cheekbones to create a sullen look.

For the eyes, I like to start with the basics and add on later for a deeper look within the eye sockets. Using blue, maroon and a hint of green, dab underneath the eye and up into the eye bed.

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Step Three:

After the cuts are applied, using the red and maroon makeup, lightly outline the scars for a bloodied look. Add as much blood as you would like surrounding the cut.

The key is to make the cut look as if it is decaying. Next use green lightly to fill in the scar for an infected look. Around the cut, use a mixture of blue and maroon for a bruised and bloodied effect.

Step Five:

For the finishing touch, fake blood is a must. This is an easy concoction, which can be made from basic kitchen items.

Fake Blood Materials:

1/2 cup of light corn syrup 10 drops of red food coloring 2 drops of blue food coloring 2 teaspoons of dry Oatmeal 2 teaspoons of Cornstarch The Cornstarch will add a thicker texture to the corn syrup, which will help stick to the skin. The Oatmeal will give the look of chunks of flesh to the blood. Dab fake blood around mouth, going down to the neck area to complete the look. Overall, it is okay to not be so precise with this look. It is okay to be sloppy in application.

Step Two:

The cuts can be created two different ways. One way is with wax, and a cheaper alternative is toilet paper, which can be rolled into a rounded shape and applied to the skin with liquid latex or even basic Elmer’s non-toxic glue.

Wax is easier because it adheres directly to the skin. In a rolling motion, create the look of the scar you would like. It can be as big or as small as you want. I included two (forehead and cheek) for a more realistic look.

Step Four:

Using the stippling brush or sponge, lightly dab a mixture of red and maroon around the mouth and upward toward the cheek. This will create a look of blood around the mouth.

By this point, I like to add more blue to the eyes to make them look more undead and bruised. I would not recommend going too dark for this because it will distract from the main attraction, which is the rotting cuts.

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Featured Musician: DJ Mike Phear Photos curtesey of Steez Promo

By: Emily Eason

It isn’t hard to notice the ever-present influence that electronic music, like dubstep and drum ‘n’ bass, has had on the Richmond music scene. It’s unique sound and use of sampling gives an entirely new perspective to music, and brings together a community that has developed a love affair for dubstep, based on the fact that it is completely different from all other music genres, and has that dancey sound that anyone can get down to!

When it comes to the local Richmond dubstep scene, of course you must mention the grimy genius that is DJ Mike Phear from Steez Promo! In only a couple of short years, Richmond resident Mike Phear has truly made a name for himself within this electronic phenomenon.

After being noticed by Steez Promo, a promotional company, his talent and local fame have become nearly untouchable.

He has opened for many inspiring electronic artists like Zed’s Dead, Reid Speed, Skrillex, AK1200, and 12th Planet, just to name a few. DJ Mike Phear is definitely a sight to be seen, with his charismatic stage appearance and obvious love for his music and his fans. This artist truly has a passion for entertainment, and his sets are always out-of-this-world, so if you think you can handle it, do yourselves a favor and check DJ Mike Phear for an unreal dubstep experience! •

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Featured

Artist

by Margarete Amonette 1. Who (or what) are your biggest inspirations?

Honestly, I'm most inspired by the people I've been able to work with in doing what I do. Danny Tiet was the guy who first got me started in live show photography, and he's been in the game doing great work longer than anyone I know. Todd Raviotta, also known as Natural Science, is another photographer whose incredibly unique work has inspired me to experiment with what I can do with photography. Also, local shop owners Casey Longyear and Marshe Wyche (Rumors Boutique), have always been my models in creating and running an independent brand and business. The guys of Audio Ammo, a local DJ crew, have also been huge inspirations and influences, especially in falling in love with electronic music.

2. Do you always see yourself working out of Richmond? If not, where do you think the next big move will be?

Richmond has been so good to me in terms of being a place to grow. I mean it when I say it's a tight-knit community.

Everyone here looks out for each other.

I've flown all over the country to work as Dope On Plastic, and I've never seen anywhere quite as welcoming to upcoming

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Erik Fox artists as Richmond. At the same time, I do see myself eventually doing work centered in other places. I would love to go back home to NYC and work with the friends I've made up there. The West Coast has also been kind of tempting in terms of future opportunities and the friends I've made out there. I'll go wherever my work takes me, but I guess what I'm trying to say is that I'll never forget that it was all made possible because of the incredible start I got back in RVA. 3. What is your focus in the Art Department at VCU? Can you see Dope on Plastic’s influence in your schoolwork, or is it something you keep completely separate?

I haven't settled on a major in the Art Department yet, but I can see myself going into a lot of different fields. The big one on my mind right now is Graphic Design. As much as I love photography, I do enough professional work in the field now to be comfortable with concentrating on something else that I see being a part of my career. Graphic Design is absolutely essential to running a good, wellfunctioning website, and that's something that I plan to keep doing throughout my

working life, whether it be with Dope On Plastic or another project.

Dope On Plastic is as much a brand as anything, and because of that I try to keep it separate from other parts of my life, including school. It gets challenging at times because a good amount of the people who follow Dope On Plastic end up being in my classes—sometimes even teaching them—and I really dislike it when people base their perspective on me around a blog I write in my free time. In terms of my actual school work, I can see similarities between the two, but I wouldn't call it 'influence'. Dope On Plastic is really just a reflection of a certain part of who I am, so when I do work that may resemble it, I feel like it's just that same part of me coming out in that work rather than something else influencing me. Dope On Plastic is me, but I'm not necessarily Dope On Plastic—if that makes sense.

4. How long do you plan to keep Dope on Plastic up? Any new projects in the works?

Dope On Plastic actually started as just a blog about what I did in my every day life.

Eventually some people started paying attention to it, so I decided I may as well

make it interesting for them. It's constantly growing in what it is and what it means to me. A few years ago it was my web journal, a year ago it was a locally-loved photoblog, and today I'm really proud to say it's a nationally-known media outlet and proud sponsor and organizer of it's own events.

I don't know how long it will keep going, how big it will get, or what it will be in the future. So far it has been completely organic in its development, and I plan to just keep letting it grow.

5. Favorite RVA party spot?

I would definitely have to say Club 534. It's got a good not-too-big-but-not-too-small capacity of 600. The inside is beautiful in terms of lighting and design, especially since it was renovated last year. It's located right on campus so it's really easy for people in VCU housing and the Fan area to get to without needing to drive. 534 was also where I first started doing photos for Audio Ammo's Brain Drain parties (before they moved to the Hat Factory), so there are a lot of memories that have come out of that place. The monthly shows that Dope On Plastic is throwing will be held at 534 starting next month, and I couldn't be more excited about it.

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reviews

cannibis corpse: BENEATH grow lights thou shalt rise Addison Herron-Wheeler Richmond’s very own Cannabis Corpse’s new full length album, Beneath Grow Lights Thou Shalt Rise, is chock-full of delightful, smoky surprises around every turn. What started as a jokeband side project featuring members of Municipal Waste, Battlemaster, and Parasytic and designed to riff off of the titles of Cannibal Corpse songs with weed metaphors has become a full-blown, (and extremely talented), serious old-school style death metal band.

Beneath Grow Lights takes things a step further and pokes fun at the song titles of death metal bands Morbid Angel and Deicide. In addition to upping the pun ante, they also go a step further musically, incorporating more vocal range, memorable guitar riffs, and just all-around quality playing into such sure-to-be classics as “Lunatic of Pot’s Creation” and “Dead by Bong.” This is a must-have album for any death metal fans still out of the loop, as well as any Richmond thrashers looking for something beyond Municipal Waste and Andrew W.K.

ADELe: 21 Takira Goss No sophomore album curse here. Though only 23 years of age, the beautiful London native, Adele Adkins, encompasses the voice of a wise yet vulnerable, kind yet cruel and broken hearted yet strong willed woman, which is displayed on her timeless sophomore album, entitled 21. The songs on this album sound beyond her years in regards to vocalization, story lines, and the brave act of baring her heart and soul for 24

the world to place criticism upon.

Some of the best ballads on this album include, “Don’t You Remember,” “Turning Tables,” and “Someone Like You,” all produced by Rick Rubin. These are not to surpass Adele’s more country, jazz, and soulinfluenced tracks like “Rolling In The Deep” and the Ryan Tedder–produced “Rumor Has It”. There’s no doubt that Adele has lived up to her 2009 Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Like the rest of the world, I am on the edge of my seat waiting for more from this remarkable woman.

Phaeleh: Fallen Light Emily Eason This album is an excellent example of the huge amount of diversity within the dub-step genre, a new and exciting electronic phenomenon that has begun to influence the world’s musical ear. Phaeleh makes heavy use of chill, ambient beats, which offer the perfect blend of sounds for those who enjoy listening to something not too upbeat, but not so relaxing that it could possibly put you to sleep.

This creative, British sound experimentalist really knows how to create a nice balance within his music through his ability to manipulate different types of sounds, from rustling leaves to the sensual tone of a violin in order to establish a beautiful, even euphoric atmosphere.

special effects, Cowboys & Aliens had a plot that was not only at times extremely predictable, but also ridiculous. It was basically any John Wayne movie meets Predator. I will not ruin the movie, though, for those who want to see it. However, I will say the twist the movie offers is not worth the 118 minutes.

Jesse Boykins III: Way of a Wayfarer Larisa Robinson Three years after his LP “The Beauty Created,” Jesse Boykins III recently released his EP “Way of a Wayfarer.” Although the EP only has six songs and is just 21 minutes in length, the Chicago-born artist doesn’t disappoint, as he adds a new upbeat flavor to his neo-soul style.

Each song showcases beautiful falsettos and harmonies that ease out of his mouth and flow throughout your entire body like a drug. That’s probably why he titled his first EP “Dopeamine: My Life On My Back”. But unlike some of his previous work, these new tracks use faster paced beats that kind of jump on the dance music bandwagon taking over today’s music scene, but without losing an inch of Boykins’ soul vibe. It’s like a combination of Boykins and Flying Lotus, J-Dilla and old Linkin Park. Best of all, the download is available for free on jbiiimusic. com. Get a copy and see for yourself!

Cowboys & aliens Amir Vera Cowboys & Aliens had all the elements of a great action movie. Not only did it feature cowboys, giving it that old Western feel, it also had aliens as a twist. With all the commercial time, there was no way Jon Favreau’s Cowboys & Aliens wouldn’t be a monetary success. That aside, all the positive expectations for this movie, if any, were false. Besides the action and excellent

Frank Ocean: nostalgia, Ultra Amaris Lemus Attention: this is not your typical R&B album. We’re not talking profanity and overplayed songs giving you directions on your dance moves. Nostalgia, Ultra is absolutely brilliant. The album provides listeners with a plethora of hybrid tracks

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arts & culture and samples from artists like Radiohead and The Eagles.

Signed to Island Def Jam Records in 2009, Frank Ocean started off writing songs for John Legend, Brandy, even the likes of Justin Bieber. After little success with the label, Ocean hooked up with L.A. rap/hiphop collective Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All and released his first solo record, Nostalgia, Ultra, on his website...for free.

What sets Ocean apart, and what will keep him around for a while, is the cleverness and fluidity of his songwriting. He puts a fresh spin on old hits with “Strawberry Swing” and delivers the ultimate message in his version of “American Wedding.” Ocean dissects the inner trials and tribulations of young love, sex, and self-doubt in a dark, romantic yet earnest way. Nostalgia, Ultra is a perfect example of innovative hip hop, although it is even difficult to box up Ocean’s masterpiece into a category that broad.

Favorite tracks: We All Try, There will Be Tears, American Wedding

X-Men: First Class Graduates with Honors

face off against each other in a series of chess-like maneuvers while seeming to at times work towards the same goal. The two men are opposite poles in terms of identity, although Vaughn leaves most of the political ideology beneath the surface (which is for the best, I’d say) as “mutant pride” becomes a divider between good and evil.

At Oxford we see Charles in top form and I must admit part of me wishes the wheelchair that made Professor Xavier infamous would never come to be. Alas, poor Charles must part with his mobility at some point in the film.

Charles, in Westchester, is joined by Raven/Mystique (the inscrutable Jennifer Lawrence) and we see 1962 America begin to roil with suspicion and fear. Shaw is now joined by Emma Frost (the dazzlingly cool January Jones lending her talents here) and the entire world becomes a stage for the machinations of Soviet generals and American naval officers. The plot here involves CIA agent Moira McTaggert (Rose Byrne) attempting to use Charles to battle Shaw, although it is unclear exactly how the CIA (with its myriad of bureaucratic bungling) found the mutants in the first place. The final battle scene on the beach, involving mental manipulation of both Soviet and US missiles, makes up for any sketchy plot holes in that the special effects admirably create a believably tense situation, fraught with danger for all of our heroes. As the film closes, new doors have been opened for future X-Men reprisals, hopefully with the same exuberance and intelligent writing that sets First Class apart. •

David Osnoe The newest installment of the ailing X-Men film franchise breathes much needed life into the series with trendy directing, superb writing and evocative performances from the cast. Matthew Vaughn (who gave us the film Kick-Ass) directed the original story, harnessing top notch special effects while moving the plot back in time, setting quirky 1960’s nostalgia against the terror of the Cold War. Similar to the first X-Men film, First Class opens on a ghastly Nazi concentration camp scene in which we see a prepubescent Erik Lehnsherr as his mother and father are taken from him. This trauma causes his power to emerge as he attempts to destroy a metal gate in order to save his parents, giving the audience a sense of who young Erik will grow up to be. Sadly, instead of saving his parents, Erik only manages to capture the attention of Dr. Schmidt, later Sebastian Shaw (stylishly performed by Kevin Bacon), who use Erik’s emotions against him to reveal his true potential. Erik’s anger and Shaw’s cold ambition drive the film forward to the Cold War era as the United States and the Soviet Union quietly plot against each other.

The older Erik (played with a calculated charm by Michael Fassbender) and his future enemy Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) mimic the two warring nations as they

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Fashion Director & Stylist: Isabella Althoff Assistant: Jennifer Mawyer Photographer: Cameron Charles Lewis Hair & Makeup: Carly Childers Model: Kiersyn Cocke Featuring Dave Brockie (Oderus Urungus) from GWAR

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Black Swan

Collection Amazone Black Velvet Corset

by Jean-Christophe Lagarde, stylist's own Black skirt by Winter Kate, shopbop.com Pink tights by Capezio, Ellman’s Dancewear in Carytown Pointe Shoes by Block, Ellman's Dancewear in Carytown Silver wing earrings by Forever 21, Forever 21 in Regency Square Black lace, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores Black tulle fabric, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

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Tornado

Grey dress by Forever 21, Forever 21 in Regency Square Grey cut out oxford shoes by Aldo, Aldo in Short Pump Town Center Miscellaneous toys, Ben Franklin & stylist's own

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Marie from Aristocats

White mink fur coat by Alan Furs, stylist's own White lace skirt by Forever 21, Forever 21 in Regency Square Cream satin platform heels by Qupid, Payless ShoeSoure Rhinestone bow earrings by Francesca's Collections, Francesca's Collections in Short Pump Town Center White polka dot stockings by Merona, Target White ruffle socks by American Apparel, American Apparel in Carytown White leotard by American Apparel, American Apparel in Carytown Pink ribbon, Ben Franklin Cat purse, stylist's own

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Carmen Sandiego

Red trench coat by Charlotte Rousse, Charlotte Rousse in Regency Square Red sleeveless oxford by H&M, H&M in Short Pump Town Center Long red skirt by Ann Taylor, Black suede boots by Steve Madden, Buffalo Exchange Vintage red hat, Salvation Army Black utility belt, Love of Jesus Thrift Store

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Karl Lagerfeld Black blazer by BCBG Max Azria, TJ Maxx White chiffon blouse by American Apparel, American Apparel in Carytown Black cropped dress pants

by H&M, H&M in Short Pump Town Center Black loafers by New Kid, Urban Outfitters in Short Pump Town Center Vintage black fur collar, Fan Tastic Thrift Black sunglasses by Charming Charlie, Charming Charlie in Regency Square Silver brooch by Cabi, cabionline.com

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Oompa Loompa

White bandeau pencil dress by American Apparel, American Apparel in Carytown Long sleeve brown shirt

by H&M, H&M in Short Pump Town Center White glasses by Dr. Peepers, Party City White leather lace up shoes by Aldo, Aldo in Short Pump Town Center Green jewel earrings

by Forever 21, Forever 21 in Regency Square Green jewel ring

by Forever 21, Forever 21 in Regency Square

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arts & culture Rainbow Lollipop from For The Love of Chocolate

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