PWC IN JAPAN REVISITED

“ An ongoing inspiration ”

By Korri Darkheart , Dejuanté Lugardo

When I was younger, I wanted to feel represented in the world I saw. I searched for outlets that allowed me to express myself through visual art, poetry, acting, modeling, anything and all that felt right.

With age, this ambition would chip away any fear held in regards to positive or negative criticism received as others became aware of what internal turbulent ruinations, sporadic celebrations, and profound realizations powered my inspiration.

This wish to see alternative people unafraid of being themselves meant giving attention to those with scars like mine, eyes like mine, and voices like mine, by me first making myself heard.

For such a long time I waited for a chance to be acknowledged, all the while not realizing I had begun grasping those opportunities on my own terms with the fantastic support of those around me.

My dedication led to my inclusion in art expo fashion shows in Japan, and opportunities to host and coordinate these events myself. It allowed my poems to be sung on stages overseas the way I started in Prince William County.

It’s gotten me in countless printed and digital magazines internationally, signed to clothing lines that celebrated me, and created a way to meet other like-minded artists. My goal is to become art not just for me, but for the generations that came before and the ones to follow as I continue to be true to myself in my chosen expressions.

I openly encourage others to refuse limitations placed on their own authenticity and to reject any notion that they should hide their scars, physical or not. I want them to know they are not alone. Art introduces shared and new thoughts experienced by those around us as we reinvent what it means to be perceived as the norm. They see me and know that no matter what, their art too can be felt by us all collectively. While living in Japan, I learned the phrase, “ 頑張って” (Ganbatte) which translates to, “Please do your best/ let’s give our best effort”. So I say to all creatives, “頑張って” as we continue to stay true to our authentic selves and “create your own storm”. Their voice matters as much as mine, this harmony we create makes this life all we want and more.

Photo title: “Dame Korri”

MUA: Korri Darkheart

Costume Concept: Korri Darkheart

Photoshoot concept: Brandon

Troublefield, Korri Darkheart, 石川優香里

Photographer: Brandon Troublefield

Photographer IG: Blkilluminati

Location: Chatan town, Okinawa, Japan

Dress name: “Elegant Citrine”

Dress designer ig: _Angelh23_

(Second Generation dress designer)

Dress designer name: Angela Hembrii

Photographer: Chris Carrier

Photographer IG: Uuakkuu.foto

Event: Gala Fashion Show

Location: Club Shangrila Kunigami

District Okinawa, Japan