Metrosphere Vol. 36 | Issue 6

‘18 APR 1

Vol. 36 / Issue 6 / April 2018

COVER ART: Iris Of Hope Jessica Sellke Iris of Hope brings awareness to sex trafficking and those who have been forcefully subjected to this evil. Iris of Hope is a visual stimulation illuminating the intensity of this humanistic enemy through the intense color situation. Not only is this a moral taboo, but it is a personal invasion of the human condition. The lingering presence of the physicals, emotional and mental damage forced onto the men, women, and children involved is visually represented by the darkness that looms over the figure. The Iris is symbolic for the hope that blossoms and overcomes the darkness when someone is liberated from sex trafficking and provided the resources to

Five Points Sp

rB

lvd

Buffalo Exchange

Sp

City O’ City 51 Broadway

Arts Building

MSU Denver

North Captiol Hill

Denver

Tivoli Station, 300 Level

Tattered Cover Book Store Tattered Cover Book Store 1628 1628 16th16th St. St.

The Bardo Coffee House

The Bardo Coffee House

The Market at Larimer Square

The Market at Larimer The Molecule Effect Square The Molecule Racine’s Effect Racine’s

E Colfax Ave E Colfax

Ave

Santa Fe Dr

Tivoli Brewing Co.

Sp

ee

rB

lvd

E Colfax Ave

E Colfax Ave

York St

Emmanuel Gallery

Tivoli Station, 300 Level

North Captiol Hill

l

E Colfax Ave

Tivoli Brewing Co.

E Colfax Ave. 2526 2526 E Colfax Ave.

al

Broadway Blvd

King Center Emmanuel Gallery

ve

M

Sp

ee Cherry Creek r Bl

vd

Cherry Creek

E Alameda Ave

2

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

E Alameda Ave

York St

King Center Auraria Library

Denver

St

MP al ark l A

Av e

Broadway Blvd

Auraria ArtsLibrary Building

th

Auraria CampusE Colfax Ave

Center For Fluid Coffee BarVisual Art Fluid Coffee Bar

16

St

Downing St

Auraria Campus

Center For Visual Art 226 E. 13th Ave.

City O’ City MSU Denver

rB

lvd

51 Broadway

Buffalo Exchange

rk

th

ee

226 E. 13th Ave.

Five Points P a

16

Downing St

ee

Santa Fe Dr

WHERE WE AT?

reclaim their freedom.

R REC EC L LAM AM A AT I T I O O N T

his issue is near and dear to our hearts here at

cannot be solved overnight, as shown by the current gun and opioid crisis our

Metrosphere, as it will be the last one for many

nation faces, it is important for people to become aware and be involved. In 2018

of us on staff. We crafted April with the idea

that momentum has carried over as people are using social media and other

of “reclamation,” showcasing people who are

platforms to spread ideas, their agendas and opinions. While a lot of people, on

claiming their lives back as their own, most of them

either side of these heated debates may mean well, it isn’t always a good thing,

through art mediums. You’ll meet two artists sharing

as Derek points out in his Tech Talk, discussing online toxicity in today’s society.

the same medium, but living two very different lives, and two inspiring humans who are solidifying a spot for

Going forward, start thinking about what the word “authenticity” means to you

themselves in the fashion and music industries. Avery

and how you perceive yourself. If you’re not happy, what can you do to help

Anderson shines light on this year’s Rising Stars in the

reclaim your identity? April is about empowerment, but it’s also about reflection.

MSU Denver Theatre Department.

We hope that you can find some inspiration in our stories this April to help you get motivation to reclaim your life, or help others reclaim something that have lost.

Reclamation is more than just a word to us.. We have seen so many people reclaiming their rights in the past

With that being said, we offer you a look at the carefree fashion of the ‘80s, the

year, through the MeToo and Times Up movements, and

advancement of Apple tech through the years and all the wonderful stories of

so many people speaking up for their rights that they

musicians, artists creatives and gender benders on Auraria Campus reclaiming

feel have been taken from them. Last year’s events have

their lives, or at least their work. It’s been an honor for us to bring you entertaining

opened a new dialogue on assault, consent, marriage,

and timely content, and in the future we hope you keep picking up Metrosphere

representation, equality and race, among a slew of other

in its next incarnation to see what the next generation of Metrosphere has to offer.

topics being discussed. Although these heated issues

Peace, love and chicken grease.

-Teresa and Lauren

‘18 APR 1

TERESA DIAZ SORIANO Editor in Chief Imbue Editor Layout Contributor

LAUREN CORDOVA Managing Editor Layout Contributor

MADDI WANEKA Creative Director Layout Contributor

Background Illustrations by Maddi Waneka

2

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

JESSICA HOLMAN Photo Editor

PR ASSOCIATE JAMES BURKY Metro Editor

ADAM BARNHARDT Intersection Editor

Caitlin Monaghan

No part of this book may be used or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical,

WORDS

photocopying, recording, or otherwise

James Burky Mimi Madrid Sabrina Laratta Avery Anderson Khaleel Herbert Adam Barnhardt Derek Gregory Janet Dallas Bianey Bermudez Teresa Diaz Soriano STAFF PORTRAITS Ivy Lindstrom Teresa Diaz Soriano

DEREK GREGORY Technosphere Editor

Printed by Fredric Printing.

MET MEDIA

without prior permission of Met Media, except in the context of reviews.

PHOTOS Carl Glenn Payne Jessica Holman Kaileigh Lyons Joel Matthew Lisa Hall Teresa Diaz Soriano Lauren Cordova Amani Newell Met Media P.O. Box 173362, CB57 Denver, CO 80217-3362

Steve Haigh: Director Ronan O’Shea: Assistant Director Kathleen Jewby: Production Manager Elizabeth Norberg: Office Manager The opinions expressed within are not necessarily those of the University and/or members of the University.

BIANEY BERMUDEZ Threads Editor

‘18 APR 3

WHAT’S IN HERE?

METRO 8

Burking Questions: Football, Ooh ha ha

10

Success in the Right Place

16

Local Talent, Denver Beats

IMBUE 22

Teresa Speaks: Home Stretch

24

Rising Star

32

The Etisan Artist

34

Detour

INTERSECTION 38

The Gay’s Gaze: A Very Gay Goodbye

40

James

SUBMISSIONS

4

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

52

Cedric Chambers

54

Ariella Asher

56

Erin Regan

58

Hans Wendlandt

SUBMISSIONS 59

Jessica Sellke

60

Mikaela Nunnally

62

Kwa Obi

63

Johan Ramirez

64

John Zeman

66

Kelsey Casado

67

Francheska Martinez

68

Ace Hardly

71

Nikolai Puc’

TECHNOSPHERE 72

Tech Talk: Savior Selfie

74

Flashback: Apple Inc.

THREADS 78

Heels & Feels: Collage Shabby to Business Chic

80

Not Just Pretty in Pink

88

Metrosphere Goes ‘80s

90

Aaron Rodriguez

96

Athleisurewear ‘18 APR 5

MUSIC at

MSU DENVER 04.02

Visiting Artist Series Shawn Copeland, clarinet

04.06

Immediate Music Festival Matt Wilson, drums & Sone

04.09

Faculty Artist Series Phillip Stevens, viola & the Ivy Street Ensemble

04.13

Visiting Artist Series Ben Goldberg’s Orphic Machine

04.14

Visiting Artist Series Colorado Composers Concert XII

04.23

Faculty Artist Series Alex Komodore, guitar

Kenneth King Performing Arts Center 855 Lawrence Way, Denver Box Office: 303-556-2296

6

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

FEATURED CONCERTS APRIL

All concerts at 7:30 pm Ticket prices vary msudenver.edu/music

WE WILL BE TAKING

SUBMISSIONS ALL SUMMER LONG!

Send submissions to: submission.metrosphere@gmail.com

www.Facebook.com/Metrosphere

@Metrosphere

‘18 APR 7

Burking Questions

Football, ooh ha ha

A

s an avid football fan, I’ve seen a number of classic films based on America’s most popular sport. Quintessentials like “Rudy,” a movie that sets the bar for underdog stories, or “Remember The Titans,” an honest, optimistic piece of cinema that tells the story of an integrated high school football team in Virginia, are staples for any

football fan. But, in terms of movies featuring the sport being played, they’re in the minority.

As a whole, these movies seem to have one, if not all, of the following qualities. They’re derivative. Meaning, if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all. There’s always a clear protagonist and antagonist. The morals are black and white. We know what is good and what isn’t and the main character may have some faults, but usually represent the ideal person. Also, they’re usually white.

“The Blind Side” follows the formula all too well, to the point of being egregious. The 2009 biopic about former NFL lineman Michael Oher is a feel-good, family-friendly flick that stars Quinton Aaron as Oher and Sandra Bullock as his adoptive mother. As Oher learns to play football for a private christian high school – a questionable creative liberty taken, as Oher knew how to play the game by this point in his life – he’s taken off the streets by his shining white knight, Sandra Bullock.

Another quality in this movie is the overwhelming christian overtones which can be seen in most of these films. 2014’s “When The Game Stands Tall” is the most blatant offender. Touting a gawdy 17 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 41/100 on Metacritic, this movie

8

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

METRO

was marketed to be a feature length sports film, but turns into an overt sermon delivered over two hours. Even the son of God would think this film is a bit much.

The problem isn’t that there are movies that lack football action, it’s just that for the better part of 20 years, the ones that do, suck. “Big Fan,” a film starring comedian Patton Oswalt as Paul, a New York Giants superfan and 40-year-old loser who still lives with his mom, was critically acclaimed as a sports drama, yet features little to no playing of the game. Same goes for the well-beloved “Jerry Maguire,” starring Tom Cruise as the titular sports agent. These films are the antithesis of the football formula films have been following. In “Jerry Maguire,” Jerry is a deeply flawed character caught in glitz and glamor of being a sports agent. His friend and client Rod Tidwell, played by Cuba Gooding Jr., is a money driven showboat.

These aren’t characters the demographic that “Rudy,” “Blind Side” and “Stands Tall” would deem acceptable. They aren’t always model citizens, they’re human and until movie companies acknowledge this and quit pandering to the white, christian family demographic, don’t hold your breath on getting an objectively well made football film.

-Angry White Boi

Metro is where news and larger issues are scaled down to relate to those in the Auraria-Denver community.

‘18 APR 9

SUCCESS IN THE RIGHT PLACE

Mimi Madrid

S

even years ago, typical high school pressures

Four years ago her determination led her from

almost pulled Chloe Tang from what makes her

her home state of Arizona to the songwriting

happiest in life, music. Since then, the CU Denver

program at CU Denver. She has been the

senior and songwriter has reclaimed a lifelong

feature artist at the university’s award winning

practice and passion for her music.

student-run record label, CAM Records, for the past academic year. The label’s mission is

“In high school I was trying to be like everyone else.

to promote and help independent Colorado

I didn’t do music a lot because I wanted to be on the

artists grow while giving students hands-on

dance team,” Tang said.

experience in the business management side. The program is run more like a lab and

She describes herself as shy and afraid at that age, but

less like a lecture, which has allowed over 50

that’s not her now. Although small in stature, her presence

music business students to collaborate with

is sweeping. Tang rocks burgundy scuffed up boots with

Tang. Members selected Tang based off her

light-wash jeans, rolled up to her shins and torn at the

previous work and have since helped her

thighs. A gray distressed Led Zeppelin graphic tee peeks

promote her music and recruit a fanbase for

out from beneath her black jacket and a septum piercing

her shows.

practice room on campus, Tang proclaims her personality

Emily Hendrick, product manager at CAM

is loud and you believe her because of her confident

Records, said that Tang’s hard work and

laugh. Tang has learned to embraced herself and the

willingness to partner with others has made

musical roots she grew up with which has helped her

their collaborations even stronger.

reconnect with her passion.

“Right off the bat, we were able to start that “Girl, you do you and quit worrying about what everyone

relationship and coordinate what she needs,”

else is thinking,” Tang said about the advice she would

Hendrick said.

give her 12-year-old self.

10

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Illustration by Teresa Diaz Soriano

sits atop her giant smile. As she sits next to a piano in a

METRO

CU Denver senior reclaims her happiness through music ‘18 APR 11

Tang’s music is the opposite of one-dimensional. She blends pop, R&B and alternative sounds with lyrics laced with emotion and storytelling. Her music process starts either with chords or melodies. While she keeps a running list of words and phrases for inspiration, it’s usually about the sound first. Most of her lyrics come from a deep place within her. She doesn’t write a lot of happy songs.

“Lyrics usually come from a place of ‘fuck you,’” she said, laughing. “Actually that’s pretty much it, just different forms of that.”

Her song “Blood,” is an exception, it was written to honor her family. Just like most teenagers, Tang couldn’t wait to leave home, and her journey led her far from the people that raised her. It’s only recently that she began to understand the importance of their support.

“When I get to go back home to Phoenix it’s really special because I never realized how much I liked them, until I moved,” she said.

Tang’s childhood revolved around music. Her mom enrolled her in piano lessons at the age of six and her father taught her how to play the guitar by the time she turned seven. It was around this time she became aware

“SHE’S ROCKED OVER 25 VENUES ACROSS COLORADO, ARIZONA AND CALIFORNIA. SHE ALSO MADE TOP 10 FOR CHANNEL 93.3’S HOMETOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS COMPETITION.”

of her own musical talent. She vividly recalls singing along to Ewan McGregor’s rendition of “Your Song” from “Moulin Rouge!,” one of her parent’s favorites.

“I was like, ‘oh, I can actually sing,’” Tang said. “Me at six years old, I was having fun.”

Tang praises her parents for their support throughout her journey. Her connection with her mother is rather cosmic.

Midway through the interview a faint voice filled the room. Tang paused bewildered, picked up her phone and said, “Hello?”

“Did you call?” asks a woman.

“No...”

“You rang my phone.”

“Oh, sorry I’m in an interview right now, can I call you back?”

12

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

METRO The voice softened and said, “oh yeah, yeah, yeah.”

2013 Grammy Camp in Los Angeles. She was one of 103

“That was my mom,” Tang said, with a huge smile as she hangs up.

national and international high school students accepted in the prestigious residential summer music program.

She grew up in Phoenix, a Chinese-American child in a predominately

This pivotal move as a junior in high school motivated her

white environment. In kindergarten, she looked around and felt she

to continue music.

was different from her peers. But, that gave her a different point of view and open mindedness about cultural diversity.

“There’s nothing that made me happier than doing music,” she said.

“I appreciate that my parents and grandparents always tried to keep our Chinese heritage alive in our family,” Tang said. “It does influence

Since then, her dedication to her craft has paid off.

my music on an underlying level but not really on the surface level.”

Her latest EP, Passion//Aggression, released a year ago, landed her in 303 Magazine lists “Denver’s Best

The level of support her family has offered her in becoming a musician

Pop,” “Fresh Music from Local Musicians” and “Denver

is paramount. With their support, she was selected to attend the

Photo by Carl Glenn Payne

‘18 APR 13

METRO

“ LYRICS USUALLY

COME FROM A PLACE OF ‘FUCK YOU’

”

-CHLOE TANG

chloetangmusic

Chloe Tang

Chloe Tang

14

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Photo by Carl Glenn Payne

Underground.” She’s rocked over 25 venues

memorable shows was last winter when she and her band

across Colorado, Arizona and California. She

reached a higher level of energy and synchronicity. Some

also made the Top 10 for Channel 93.3’s

fans even ran up on stage to dance with them.

“Hometown for the Holidays” competition in December 2017. Tang’s musical talent has

“It was a special moment because I felt really bonded with

highlighted her as one of few woman of color

my band and we were just having so much fun,” she said.

in a male-dominated industry.

Tang takes time to charge her power, focus and presence Regardless of her success, Tang stays

before a show.

grounded thanks to her mentors. One of the best nuggets of wisdom she’s received

“I always usually have to have a moment before the show

has been from a particularly blunt professor,

where I’m either with just my band or by myself,” she

Andy Guerrero. He’s a CU Denver alumni and

said. “It has to be fairly quiet and I have to breathe for

played guitar for the Denver-based band

a second.”

Flobots in the early 2000s.

Tang and her band, guitarist Evan Lei, bassist Alex Bailey “One thing that I will always remember he

and drummer Mike Tritsch, opened for Hunter Burnette’s

told me was, ‘Don’t be afraid to tell yourself

EP release at Lost Lake on March 15. They rocked a set

that you can do better,’” Tang said. “It’s really

of nine songs that included the first ever performance of

harsh, but he’s really guided me in making

“Blood.”

real-world decisions.”

She makes space to connect with her fans and socialize Guerrero has witnessed Tang grow as a

after shows, but she’s not a big partier and is home within

musician for the last four years. He describes

hours, ready for her third favorite thing after music and

her as a driven, warm and fearless individual.

her dog, sleep.

“It’s really all her,” Guerrero said. “She’s

Tang graduates May 2018 and the pressure of what comes

working every day to accomplish her dream.

next would fold anyone else, but she’s reclaimed the

She’s really open to advice, critique and

peace that comes with not needing to know what exactly

criticism while at the same time trying to

she will do right now or even the next 10 years. Afterall,

forge her path as an artist.”

Tang is young and just celebrated her golden birthday in February. There’s a sense of liberation and peace when

Tang is serious about improvement and

she talks about her life lessons. Her advice for artists

dedicates time to her lyricism and live-

and young women is to focus on not being fake,

performances. Live shows leave the self-

center respectful relationships and breathe through

identified introvert hyped. One of her most

the process.

‘18 APR 15

LOCAL TALENT DENVER BEATS Denver is home to many art creatives and the music scene is no different. 2018 is a breakout year for many talents in the Mile High and we are seizing that momentum to introduce to you some fresh faces in the music scene as well as some seasoned veterans. Like most of the world, these artists started as listeners and turned into musicians. Some, like Maria Kohler A.k.A Kitty Crimes and Nick Miller, better known as Illenium have been in the game for a hot minute. Others like the baby face Marcellus Mershon are still honing their creative sound and propelling side projects. Vic and the Narwhals are creating their own Denver music scene yet each of these beat makers are pursuing their passions

All interviews and Q + A conducted by Sabrina Laratta (unless otherwise stated) and edited and condensed by the editorial staff.

16

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Background photo by Teresa Diaz Soriano

in search of enlightenment and to enlighten.

RED ROCKS AUG. 29, 2018

UPCOMING SHOW

METRO

A

lthough Nick Miller was born in Chicago, he’s

overarching message in every song or album.

been a Denverite since 2013. He has since made

My goal is to just create music that people

his name, releasing music, starting a record label,

connect with and sometimes it's as simple as

Kasaya Recordings and enjoying the outdoors.

hitting the right emotion at the right time and

Illenium’s electronic dance music exhibits emotional and

letting the listener fill in the blanks.

relatable lyrics to get fans in their feels and we caught up with him to chat about his music.

What do you love the most about your fans, music, and the journey you have been on the

What was the most exciting/nerve racking part about getting

last six years? What motivates you since that

started? Where did you envision yourself in the future?

first Red Rocks show?

In the beginning it was the constant pressure of asking myself

Music pulled me out of a really dark place

"is this good enough?" It took a while for me to get my

in my life and it's something I'll always be

music to a point that I was consistently happy with. Making

thankful for. I've had fans share with me how

the leap to producing full-time was also nerve racking. Not

my music has had that effect for them and

knowing where the next paycheck would come from and

it motivates me to keep going because I

trying to have faith that everything will work out.

understand it. I've been there. Music is a way for me to process my emotions and make

What makes your music unique and what message are

sense of the world so I think it's something I'll

you trying to get across in each song and album?

always do. I've met some of my best friends

I think the best way to make music that is unique is to stay

and been able to travel all over the world

true to yourself and let the song come from an authentic

because of it. I'm incredibly grateful to have

place. Producing is a very personal thing for me. A lot

this opportunity and to have a community of

of inspiration comes from past experiences, emotions

fans that act as a family to each other.

Photo courtesy of Nick Miller

ILLENIUM

Illeniummusic

Illenium

and events I've been through. I wouldn't say there's an

‘18 APR 17

METRO

Y T T KI

Photo courtesy of Maria Kholer

M

S E M CRI

aria Kohler is no newbie musician, and Kitty Crimes is the

What do you want fans to learn from you and your music, and

latest project-incarnate of this lovely lady. Kohler started Kitty

how do you want to inspire others?

Crimes as a purely hip-hop endeavour, but it eventually grew

I want to give people permission to go as hard as they feel deep down

to incorporate a wider soundscape. The openly queer lyricist

inside. I want to piss off men who try to disempower you when you talk

is hardly coy about her feelings on sex and gender, among many

about liking yourself. I want to be transparent about my insecurities

things. Kitty Crimes released “I Need to Get My Taxes Done” last

and my grandeur at the same time.

year, it’s a cheeky ode to getting some action from the person doing her taxes. She opened up for Lizzo Beats earlier this year and has new

What have been the most difficult challenges you have faced and

music coming out later this year.

how did you overcome them?

I have felt at many points in my life, oppressed by people who

How long have you been writing and producing music? When did

wanted in some way to dominate me. I have become a valiant knight

you realize it was your passion?

for myself who will defend my own honor, and I’ve always wanted to

I have been producing since I was 13, when I found this corny software

know what true true confidence felt like. Like not the egoic version of

for windows called HipHop Ejay. My first album was called “Country

“I’m great,” but I think true confidence is deeply spiritual.

Clubbin,” making fun of the fact that I lived in a neighborhood called Country Club Hills. My brothers were the singers and basically

How has music impacted you? What have you learned about

repeated some variation of the phrase “freaky deaky” the entire

yourself through music?

album. I have been playing instruments since I could remember,

It reminds me to follow a bread crumb trail back to being in love.

maybe 5, and always have known this was my path.

What do you love the most when you perform live? How do your What do you love most about the music you produce?

fans make you happy?

Well, I think my shit is nasty! And I also get hit with waves of pride

I love how my shows are about everyone being in it together and how

sometimes when I’m performing and I realize I made the beat I’m

everyone gets so committed to having a good time.

rapping on. I always wanted to find people who wanted to be like “my producer” until I realized that I knew exactly what I wanted, and male

What is the best advice anyone has ever given you, and what

contributors sometimes have a tendency to take credit for “making” you.

advice would you give to others who have dreams and goals?

Kill your gods.

Where do you want to see yourself 10 years from now?

Kill your gods.

Doing things only because I want to do them. I think in a house bus on a piece of land in woods near LA.

18

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

crimesofthekitty

kittycrimes

Photo by Sabrina Laratta

METRO

What does your name mean?

It’s literally my name translated in Japanese with the honorific of “lord.”

How long have you been producing music ? How would you describe your style?

I’ve been producing music for about a year and a half, almost two years. My style would be more like experimental hip-hop and jazz.

Your sound and style remind me of Flying Lotus and his ilk, how do you approach

MARCELLUS MERSHON Colorado native MSU Denver May 2018 Grad Technical Communications Major Saint Liam Collections Affiliate

creating multimedia pieces?

I usually try to find the theme of my videos, graphics, then find the beat that fits. I make

they could actually become something better

all my music first the same way Shinichiro

than the state they are in now when they are

Watanabe directs most of his anime.

listening to my music. And with me using anime samples, I want them to feel like they

What is your connection to anime? It has

are a part of my crowd.

obviously suffused your art.

Anime has been at my reach ever since I was

What are your future goals with your

born in ‘94. I’ve always admired the art. I’ve

career and music after your graduate?

watched “Dragon Ball Z, “ “Sailor Moon,”

After I graduate I hope for my music to

“Cowboy Bebop,” “Yu Yu Hakusho” and all

progress in a way where people listen to it

the greats growing up. I’ve devoted my life

- but mainly I want to become an animator,

to anime because one day I want to be like

so I want to be able to make music and

Shinichiro Watanabe. By the way, Flying Lotus

soundtracks for my animation.

Artwork courtesy of Marcellus Mershon

did the music score for Shinichiro Watanabe’s Blade Runner 2022. I met Watanabe during

What does making music help you reclaim?

[Nan Desu Kan] two years ago with Dai Sato.

My youth.

Music has a way of moving people and deeply affecting their lives: how do you want people to feel when they listen to your music? What do you hope they will learn from you?

I like people that feel happy and hopeful when they listen to my music and vibe and feel like

lordmaserasu Mars345 ‘18 APR 19

VIC Interview conducted by Teresa Diaz Soriano with Victor Hernandez

Who are Vic and the Narwhals?

“Los Narwhals” as we like to call it is composed of four latin Narwhals from the great state of Colorado. One of the Narwhals is from Colombia and the other from Mexico, whose families migrated from the Arctic and settle in much warmer weather. The lineup

AND THE

consists of Sergio Castorena: Guitar and Vocals, Mateo Lozano: Bass and Vocals,

in Denver.” We have so much hype, so many

Emanuel Montoya: Drums and Productions,

good bands on the rise, and we are all really

and Victor Hernandez: Keys, Guitar, Vocals

building a sense of community. I Love going

and hypeman.

to shows and seeing my best friends play awesome music. But ultimately the DIY scene

How did Vic and the Narwhals start?

is definitely back for revenge, ever since The

Three of the band members met at a Growlers

Rhinoceropolis closed, DIYers have been left

concert in Boulder back in 2015 and began

to seek out other places. Never been to so

jamming right away. We played our first show

many house shows hitherto, and lots of other

at The Mutiny four months later.

Vic met

DIYs popping up inspired by the Rhino gives

Mateo at his probation officer’s place, small

it a sense of how much of an impact that

world.

place left and how eager the scene is to keep the DIY scene to ourselves. Los Narwhals

Describe your sound.

practice at Ursa Minor, a warehouse whose

Our sound is what we call, Latin Psych/Surf.

secret location has made for some awesome

It’s a combination of garage rock, cumbia,

shows. We wanna keep this DIY life since

latin rhythms, psych, old school licks and

it’s the roots of so many bands here in town.

bilingual lyrics. It’s like if Ray Manzarek played

Definitely wanna keep the spirit.

in a cumbia band led by a punk rocker. Our music is sure to get you moving, dancing,

What puts you in your most creative state

crying and kissing the person next to you.

of mind? Have there been moments in your life, good or bad, that have influenced

20

Describe the scene you’re a part of here in

your music?

Denver and how that influences the type

I think really emotional events make me

of music you make?

want to write music so bad. When my ex

Like I heard someone say just earlier this

left me, all I had to cope with was my piano

week, “The scene has never been this good

and friends. I felt like life itself had left me,

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Photo by Teresa Diaz Soriano

METRO

COLORADO

NATIVES

NARWHALS but when I wrote a song of what I felt I no longer owned that feeling, it was extrinsic to who I was because it has manifested into something that used to be me. Playing those songs now brings really hard memories back but I love it. Also just hearing a really good song live, or the radio, or from a friend, like wow what was he/she thinking they they wrote this.

What are your future goals with your career and music after your graduate?

I’m a Bio major getting ready to apply to Nursing school.

I want to be a nurse so I can have a career that gives me a sense of giving back to the community, is interesting, pays well and also gives me time to do music. I love health, science and the opportunity.

What’s next for los Narwhals?

We just got nominated for the Westword Music Awards 2018 for best Rock band, Please go vote.

We are

playing FoCo Mx for the first time this year, UMS, and a festival out in Wichita, Kansas called ICT Fest. Maybe even play Westword Music Showcase this year.

We ‘re

gonna play the Bluebird May 19, for Rock de Mayo along with Grammy nominated, The Chamanas featuring local favorites SYCDVK and iZCALLi. We are getting our album out this year, July 14 at 3 Kings Tavern and going on tour Photo courtesy of Vic and the Narwhals

this summer to the West Coast for nine days. We are also going to do a live set at radio 1190-AM in Boulder and a live TV Set for a local channel named Denver Open Media. Also doing a private event for Jack Daniels at Club Vinyl this month and have some other things in mind for this year, so follow us on Instagram and Faceworld at Vic N the Narwhals.

vicnthenarwhals

vicnthenarwhals ‘18 APR 21

Teresa Speaks

HOME STRETCH

I

f you’ve been with us since the beginning of the semester, you’ve learned about some amazing and inspiring individuals and groups making a difference in our beautiful state of Colorado.

Imbue fell in my lap early on and I wasn’t sure what this section was going to be, but I did know that the people we featured would be uplifters in the community.

It’s important that we open up and talk about problems in our society, so that we can be better prepared to tackle them, or the very least, know about them.

It was inspiring to chat with people approaching health care from a holistic approach in our October 2017 issue. I loved learning about professor Rebecca Gorman O’Neill’s experiences on campus with students in November 2017. In the new year, I shifted focus to those artists who are making beats, paintings, or clothes to empower others as well as themselves. Travis Egedy and Jesse Van Horne are legit OG Colorado artists, and it was important to chat about the difficulties and rewards of doing what you love. That’s a trend we continued on with, getting to know Detour and The Etisian Artist.

22

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

IMBUE

Left to right: Teresa Diaz Soriano, Carl Glenn Payne, Amani Newell, Maddi Waneka, James Burky, Adam Barnhardt, Lauren Cordova, Derek Gregory, Lisa Hall, Kylie Hensen

Photo courtesy of Teresa Diaz Soriano

We live in a nation that keeps cutting arts programs in schools, but they are such an important creative outlet and will no doubt continue to be. That’s why we not only feature art in this magazine, but artists as well. I hope you’re inspired by what myself and other students have offered to you this year. It’s been a long year and I’m excited that I am finally able to calm down and look at this last issue, the last of six beautiful magazines. I can reflect on all of the people and experiences I’ve had. It’s been amazing and fruitful. Shoutout to my parents, who are awesome. A special thanks to my family and friends for dealing with me and being real with me, even when I was on the DL. Thanks for tuning in.

-Teresa

Imbue focuses on the people and places that are inspirational in our community.

‘18 APR 23

IMBUE

WILL HUNTER Avery Anderson

A

t the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year, Will Hunter walked onto campus to start his final year as a student at MSU Denver. Soon after that he would audition and be cast in his final MSU Denver Theatre Department production starting the

end of his four-year star-studded journey at school.

Hunter is not unlike other students who work on shows at MSU Denver, but what gives him the distinction of Rising Star is his ability to enhance any line, scene or production he is in, simply by putting his heart into it.

In the fall of 2015 Hunter was cast in his first play with the university, “God’s Country,” in which he played the character Parmenter. Just like Parmenter makes a name for himself in the show by standing out and being different, Hunter did the same in real life. His acting experiences in several theater department productions, including “Tempest,” “She Kills Monsters” and “The American Clock” helped him hone his theatrical skills. In the Summer of 2017 his determination led him to his first professional production with The Upstart Crow Theatre company.

The Upstart Crow is a local theater company that has been producing mainly Shakespearean works in Colorado.

24

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

The Rising Star Award is an honor given to two graduating students in the MSU Denver Theatre Department. One male and one female have been selected as the Rising Star for their performances, skill and professionalism.

The awards have been curated by Avery Anderson, arts journalist for Met Media, and are his selection alone. The awards are in no way connected with the Theater Department.

Rising Star

Photo by Lauren Cordova

‘18 APR 25

IMBUE

“His level of maturity and dedication to mastering every aspect of the art of stagecraft is admirable in an actor of any age.”

-Avery Anderson

Photo Courtesy of MSU Denver Theatre Department Photo Courtesy of The Upstart Crow

26

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Photo courtesy: MSU Denver Theatre Department

for 38 years. While many actors, especially young actors,

actor that understands his characters. He is able to dig

shy away from the Bard’s work, Hunter rushed right into it.

deep into them and find their inner feelings. Even more

He took on the role of Edmund in “King Lear” and began to

important though, he is able to show those desires.

make a name for himself in the Colorado theater community.

Although his performance in “The Country Wife” was “He’s the kind of actor, and the kind of person, that any

Hunter’s last acting role in the theater department – one

theater company would be lucky to work with,” Joe

that distinguished him as the department’s leading man –

Illingworth, president of The Upstart Crow Theatre Company

his involvement didn’t end there.

and fellow cast member in “King Lear” said. “His level of maturity and dedication to mastering every aspect of the art

In the spring of 2018, Alpha Psi Omega, the theater

of stagecraft is admirable in an actor of any age.”

honor fraternity, staged a reading of “Opium,” which was written by Hunter. This new work is an engaging show

After taking his final bow in “King Lear,” Hunter started his

that follows a detective as he investigates a murder trial.

senior year by leading “The Country Wife,” at MSU Denver,

Although he was not a part of the production due to

where he played the seductive bachelor, Master Horner.

his work on StageDoor Theatre’s production of “The 39 Steps,” “Opium” is still a unique and original piece of

“The Country Wife” is not a Shakespeare piece but uses

theater. Hunter plays with both dark comedy and realism

the same old English dialect that Hunter had mastered

creating something that does not fit in either category,

over the summer, making him the perfect person to lead

but instead creates its own in the best way.

the comedy.

He is a gifted and talented actor that has made his mark When I first saw “The Country Wife” I deemed it one

here at MSU Denver as well as in the Colorado theater

of the best plays that MSU had done recently. That was

scene. His dedication, hard work, love for Shakespeare

largely due to Hunters acting. He was devilish and sexy

and raw ability has propelled him to where he is and will

as Horner and was able to connect with the audience and

continue to make him a rising star.

create a role that was so sublime to watch. Hunter is an

‘18 APR 27

IMBUE

ABIGAIL KOCHEVAR Avery Anderson

W

hen deciding which of the many talented women from the MSU Denver Theatre Department should be named Rising Star, the decision was clear and simple. Abigail Kochevar is a force of nature who shines in any role

she is put in and has already carved out a name for herself in the Colorado theater community.

Kochevar is a Colorado girl who started working on local stages long before she came to MSU Denver. Prominent shows “Once On This Island,” “South Pacific” and “Carousel” are some production names on her impressive resume.

It is no surprise Kochevar made an impression at MSU Denver.

She landed her first role as Mayzie in “Seussical” and went on to perform in several other shows, including “The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee” and “Spring Awakening” as a student.

Kochevar has also worked extensively with local theater companies Performance Now, Miners Alley Playhouse and Inspire Creative.

She tends to gravitate toward dramatic roles that are complex and have layers to them. A character that the audience can really sink their teeth into.

28

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Rising Star

Photo by Lauren Cordova

‘18 APR 29

“Spring Awakening” Photo Courtesy of MSU Denver Theatre Department

“Side by Side by Sondheim” Photo Courtesy of Brooke Trexler

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Photo Courtesy of MSU Denver Theatre Department

“Fun Home” Photo Courtesy of Sarah Roshan

30

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

IMBUE

“Kochevar is a force of nature who shines in any role.”

-Avery Anderson “Abby is a beating heart on two legs,” local actress

content. Kochevar lept with full force into the role and

Heather Lacy said. “Sharing the stage with her is a

garnered rave reviews for it.

privilege because she shows up in the moment and meets you.” Lacy performed alongside Kochevar in “Fun

“Middle Allison, played by Abigail Kochevar, gives

Home” as the family matriarch Helen.

exuberant life to one of the show’s best songs, ‘Changing My Major (to Joan)’,” Westword's Juliet Wittman said.

She has proved over and over that she is clearly a double threat. Kochevar can not only sing but act as well.

Local music director Mitch Samu describes her as consistent. “Show after show, rehearsal after rehearsal,

Her shining moment came just a couple of months ago

she is constant,” he said. “Once she has got it down and

in the regional premiere of “Fun Home” at Miners Alley

finds the sweet spot you can count on her to deliver time

Playhouse. She took on the role of Middle Alison in this

after time. On the stage, she is a solid, dependable rock.”

coming of age and coming out story. Based on Alison Bechdel’s graphic novel, Middle Alison explores her

Kochevar is swimming into the role of Ariel’s understudy

sexuality while in college and is a role that many actors

and Mersister in “Little Mermaid” at BDT Stage and if her

would shy away from not only because it is a challenging

incredible performances are any indicator, she is sure to

role to sing and act but because it deals with mature

make a splash.

‘18 APR 31

IMBUE IMBUE

THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST THE ETISAN ARTIST

All photos courtesy of Elijah Trujillo

ELIJAH TRUJILLO

B

orn and raised in Denver, Elijah Trujillo is a self-taught muralist and painter.

Under the moniker, The Etisan Artist, and being only 19 years old, Trujillo is a powerhouse in the art world. He has murals displayed in Greeley, Loveland, Boulder, Fort Collins and Denver. He even has art displayed at

the MAM Couture Boutique clothing store in Denver.

Trujillo started his own clothing line, “The Conserved Extroverts.”

The line

includes hats, hoodies, jackets and shirts and, as Trujillo states, is for introverts to grow and become extroverts through process, time and chemistry. The artist took time out of his busy schedule to speak with Metrosphere about his craft and dedication to art.

32

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

ACRYLIC BRUSHWORK | UNDISCLOSED LOCATION

ACRYLIC BUTTERFLY ON CANVAS | STREET WEAR

How has your environment and surroundings influenced your art?

My experiences can influence my paintings through many ways I don’t always make public and sometimes they don’t at all. I’ve done paintings on past experiences.

Ones including a picture of a fond memory and paintings of representation. Things I feel I can express and grab the attention of the viewer well.

What goals do you have for 2018 in the art world?

My goal for 2018 would be to just keep growing as an artist. I’m pushing for my work to be seen and heard in more places.

How do you define success?

My definition of success is my happiness. Whether I’m wealthy or poor, If I’m happy, I’m OK. What’s the one thing you want to be remembered for as an artist and as a person?

What inspired you to get into art and become a freelance artist?

As an artist, I would want to be remembered by my color

I got into art because of growing up in hip-hop culture. My

schemes, abstract placement and originality. As a person,

dad put us on [to the scene] because he was a DJ, producer

I would want people to say, ‘That boy was real, genuine

and rapper for a local group called DenCo back in the day.

and just did his thing.’

He introduced us to it all. Graffiti, music, break-dancing.

Curiosity took over and now these things have a big impact on my life.

I adopted graffiti at a very young age, tagging up people’s

theetisanartist

theetisanartist.com

binders since middle school and hitting up walls when I could.

I got into the freelance world because people would see the work I was doing through social media and started offering money. So I pursued it. My first freelance piece was a landscape for a friend for $20. I was 18 at the time.

2017 JEFFERSON JR. HIGH MURAL | FINE ART

Who are your artistic influences and why?

I have a few different influences as far as artists go. Sofles, Telmo Miel, Jose Mertz, Joseph Martinez and Hueman. The list is big, but it’s not as big as the impact my environment has on me. I pull inspirations from my surroundings and experiences.

‘18 APR 33

IMBUE

THOMAS EVANS

DETOUR 34

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

All photos and artwork courtesy of Thomas Evans

W

ith art and obtaining a business degree on his mind, Thomas Evans settled in Denver in 2006, studying at CU Denver. Growing up a “military brat,” Evans has lived in many places including North and South Carolina, Virginia and Germany creating art no matter where he went.

If he wasn’t doodling Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in elementary school he was putting his entrepreneurial skills to work creating airbrush t-shirts for money.

He eventually earned a bachelor’s and a master’s in business and with his new knowledge, he became a full-time freelance artist. He cites the works of David Garibaldi, Justin Bua and Jordan Castillo as just a few of his artistic influences.

Now at 33 years old, under the moniker, Detour, Evans has art displayed in several Denver locations including Meadowlark Kitchen, Natural Remedies dispensary and the Redline Gallery. His art has also showed in New Orleans and Chicago.In March 2018, he did an art residency in France, but before leaving the country, he took some time to talk with Metrosphere about his art.

‘18 APR 35

IMBUE

On your website, I noticed your portraits of famous musicians from

“BETWEEN THE HUES” COLLECTION

Ray Charles to Kendrick Lamar. What inspired you to use these people in your art?

All the pop art that I do was really influenced by my love for music. I got into the routine of using references from the musicians that I really gravitated to. So a lot of hip-hop artists, jazz musicians, old school R&B and blues and soul.

What kind of dancer were you and how did you become a DJ? I was dancing before I was a DJing. I was learning break dancing and used to put on a lot of break dancing events at the Auraria Campus. But I was getting injured. While I was injured, I couldn’t really dance. I started organizing and DJing all the events we were throwing on campus.

All photos and artwork courtesy of Thomas Evans

iamdetour.com

On your Shopify website, you have prints, posters and “Between the Hues.” What’s “Between the Hues?”

“Between the Hues” was a show I did in 2017, which was work from found materials in the studio workshop space. Every piece of the figurative work in “Between the Hues” was done on Amazon cardboard box and scrap wood to create the different shapes and side of the frame. It was good experimentation. When I decided to do that, I put it out there for the world to see. People really gravitated to it, so I created a body of work after doing so many, then did a show. So I may continue that one this year after learning a lot about those materials that I was using.

36

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

IMBUE

Since the theme of our April issue is “reclamation,” how do you as an artist and your artwork align with this theme?

“Between the Hues,” was a lot of reclaimed items. I used to do a lot of work where I would reclaim old vinyl records and paint on top of those. But I use a lot of found objects or reclaimed objects, trying to repurpose them for art purposes. In general, I think all artists somehow repurpose items or reclaim items to communicate their message in some way that that object wasn’t really intended to do.

How much struggle was involved in getting your

MUHAMMAD ALI | ACRYLIC | BLACK ART | HISTORY | 2016

artwork out to the public?

Imagine if you have a bucket and you had your fan-base in that bucket and you poke holes in it. A lot of times, people will leave, and it’s somewhat your job to keep filling that bucket with people that will be able to appreciate your art.

So you’re trying to grow that while people sometimes grow up or fall out of interest in your work.

You’re always trying to grow in that stagnant because sometimes people will gravitate to other things after a while. You always want to try to reinvent yourself, your work. Try new mediums.

Experiment as much as possible.

detour303

“BETWEEN THE HUES” COLLECTION

‘18 APR 37

The Gay’s Gaze

A VERY GAY GOODBYE

W

hen I applied for writing job at this

condone necrophilia, it just so happened films like “The

student magazine, I thought I would

Neon Demon” and “Swiss Army Man,” both dealt with

be covering chess meets and ball

necrophilia that year. It’s fascinating how people of all

games.

walks of life took time to listen to a stranger ramble on

What

actually

happened

was way more valuable. I am a journalism major and a

about banging dead people.

gender and sexualities minor, Metrosphere forged their connection. I found myself writing about the people in

Consider this last column a call to action for all

my community and experiencing their perspective as a

LGBTQ journalists: Do it. It’s arduous, annoying,

witting passenger.

painful, expensive, and time-consuming. But it is also enlightening, thrilling, fulfilling, and satisfying. If you’ve

This column started with a bang when I first wrote about

reached a lull in your career pursuits and just want to be

the Bruce LaBruce film “The Misandrists,” in Vol 35 issue

treated like a professional, go to MetMedia. They want

1.The next month I talked about Netflix original “Sense8”

you, they’ll respect you, and you will be published.

and the budding, diverse community it was affecting.

Then things got weird and I found myself talking about

As Hunter S. Thompson put it, “No sympathy for the

BDSM, necrophilia and pornography. Not that I have

devil; keep that in mind. Buy the ticket, take the ride...and

a problem with it, someone had to point out how 50

if it occasionally gets a little heavier than what you had in

Shades was not real BDSM and I was honored to do it.

mind, well...maybe chalk it up to forced consciousness expansion: Tune in, freak out, get beaten.”

More than anything else I’ve written, “Bedding the Dead” is the piece people ask me about the most. No, I don’t

38

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

-Adam Barnhardt

INTERSECTION

2016. Vol 35 Issue 1

2016. Vol 35 Issue 3

2016. Vol 35 Issue 5

Intersection sheds light on the intersecting values, cultures and lifestyles of people within the LGBTQ community. ‘18 APR 39

Artist and Alumnus James Mullane uses art to cross, bend and blend gender boundaries.

He received his bachelor’s in fine arts with a concentration in drawing at MSU Denver and has had his art displayed at CVA. Here is an in-depth look at how an artist explores gender both on and off the canvas.

Photo by Lisa Hall Photo Manipulation by Teresa Diaz Soriano

40

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

INTERSECTION

Photo by Lisa Hall

JAMES

Adam Barnhardt

‘18 APR 41

42

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

INTERSECTION

How does gender intersect art in your life?

How does your artworks’ meanings differ from what you would

Gender and art go hand in hand in my life. I live my art through my

do/say in your normal day-to-day life?

gendered experience. My artwork is inspired and often dictated by

My artwork allows me to explore and discover my truer self. In my

my gendered experiences. I use my art as therapy to play with being

day-to-day it helps to be more normative. My day job allows me the

both masculine and feminine. It allows me a safe space to explore this

funding needed to create my art and so I live within the corporate

unique identity.

guidelines. I push the envelope some…such as wearing eyeliner or painting my nails. I follow the rules only enough to make my art and

What words do you use to describe yourself as it pertains to

keep exploring being non-binary.

gender, sex, ethnicity?

Gay, Genderfluid, an effeminate male. I like the term fairy and think it

Do you see drag as a form of art?

fits myself well. Most people never ask my ethnicity but I am white. My

Yes I do. It takes skills to transform the self and create a unique and

mother’s mom was Japanese and so that is where I inherited my dark

new identity. I have thought about incorporating it into future shows.

hair, brown eyes and olive skin.

The idea of this transformation is normally private but to put it on such display would make the self more vulnerable and expose the true

What feelings do you want to evoke through your art?

nature of the transformation itself.

I want my art to be thought provoking even if people don’t like it.

I don’t want to make something that is just pretty but has a deeper

Have you yourself experimented with drag?

meaning. I want my art to be shocking but not in a way that limits the

Yes I have. It has been a little bit since I have done so and I am getting

audience I can reach. Shock art has a place but I want my art to help start

the itch to put on some makeup and wig. Time to create a new piece.

conversations about what gender is and how it impacts each individual.

It is such an exhilarating experience to transform in a way that is

All photos and Artwork courtesy of James Mullane

‘18 APR 43

44

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

INTERSECTION

Photo and Artwork courtesy of James Mullane

‘18 APR 45

Photos and Artwork courtesy of James Mullane

unexpected. I actually went to my thesis opening in full

How you you feel about men reclaiming their femininity?

drag. I spent the evening in 6in. platforms. I couldn’t feel

I find this to be so empowering. I think men and women

my toes but it was worth seeing the expressions when

need this commonality to continue developing equal

people made the connection between this persona and

rights for all. By allowing men to reclaim their femininity

the art they were looking at. I went to the closing in

it helps them to understand and empathize with women.

traditional masculine attire and people were so interested

It seems that we all need the ability to get in touch with

to see the transformation. It also allowed them to see the

ourselves without the judgment of those around us.

deeper meaning of my work. That gender is fluid and can ebb and flow at the desire of the individual when given the opportunity to express themselves.

46

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

INTERSECTION

How do you feel about the reverse? (women reclaiming masculinity) I think this is just as important as the question above if not more important. I know the idea exists that Drag Kings aren’t as important but they matter to society as much as any other form of self expression. This idea of reclaiming masculinity is a very interesting concept. It makes me wonder if they are reclaiming or taking what was never theirs – not that they shouldn’t. This seems like such an interesting idea and I love it as a whole. I think this needs to become the next area that we explore when looking at identity politics.

What do you think about the melding of identity politics and art?

I find the space where these two meet so important. Art allows for anyone to give a voice to their own ideas about identity politics. Identity politics is such an open concept at this point. It has no boundaries and is all grey area, for me. I think this is such a unique time to be able to explore gender within identity politics and give voice to those who may not be able to speak for themselves.

Who are your inspirations? Other artists? Gender rebels?

There are so many artists that have influenced me. Hans Bellmer is one who I can relate to. His work with dolls was seen as a fight against the body image propaganda of World War II. The work is slightly erotic but the rope represents self restraint for me. I used his work a lot while I was in school to help defend my work. Cassils is another artist who uses the body and will power to develop performance pieces that reflect the ideas of

‘18 APR 47

INTERSECTION

what gender can become. Kris Grey/ Justin Credible is another artist whose work has greatly influenced the pieces I create. The art is performance that shows the constructs of gender and how fleeting they can become. I also reference the theoretical work of Judith Butler. Her examination of gender and the performativity have played a big part in my art. It is allowing me to look for new methods to break down these gender stereotypes and blur the lines even more.

Do you think drag has become mainstream?

It may be becoming more mainstream, but that is the society we live in. More and more we see things becoming mainstream all the time. From lip-syncing to voguing to being gay more and more being represented as norm‌not a bad thing but used to make profit. Anything that can be commercialized and be used to make profit can and will. It seems to be the nature of any society that revolves around commerce and money.

What art mediums, aside from painting and sewing do you dabble in?

Makeup, encaustics, collage ( Mixed Media), in drawing I use pastel and colored pencil,

Photos and Artwork courtesy of James Mullane

in painting I am more watercolor than any

48

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

other medium, embroidery, and I knit on occasion…just not as an art medium. I have been wanting to learn how to sew….to make my own costumes for photos as well as to use in my art if I can find ways to incorporate it. I do enjoy setting up my photo shots that I use as reference photos so I dabble in photography.

What are you working on now?

I have several pieces in progress now. I just started a series of embroidery pieces that combine gay imagery and stitch work. I find this to be an interesting combination of the masculine and feminine. I am using flowers as a means of censorship. I just sent one of these pieces to a juried show in Detroit Michigan. Hopefully it is well received at the Dirty Show. I am also working on another 5 panel piece that will represent the fight for gender and how gender doesn’t actually exist. I took 2017 as a year to explore and find myself after graduating. I am ready to really push the limits with my art and see where it takes me.

What aspects of yourself have you reclaimed through producing art?

Through my art I have been able to reconcile the masculine and feminine side. I have been able to play and make myself my own living doll. I am able to play out my childhood fantasies. I have been able to explore my love for shoes and glitz as well as getting in touch with my more sensual side.

jamesmmullane

‘18 APR 49

r A

. ail s: ion gm iss re@ bm he su sp ur tro yo me us on. ail ssi Em bmi su

co

m

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

50

a t

d n

t I L

a r e

u t

e r

Su

bm

iss

ion

s

‘18 APR 51

SUBMISSIONS

Can We Keep It? Cedric Chambers

52

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Rocinante Cedric Chambers A modern artist questions technique; they believe that art should free like a drunk driver on the freeway.

A contemporary artist questions an idea; If one were to simply put a urinal into an art gallery, does it become art?

A meta-modernist is both. I consider myself a meta-modernist.

Unlike modern art, my art requires no explanation as to what the viewer is looking at. Unlike contemporary art my art will never be mistaken for trash.

I am an oil painter who focuses on creating realism.

I follow the meta-modern philosophy of Stuckism.

I give up on shock, novelty, gimmick, and petting my dog Coco.

I prefer process over cleverness, realism over abstraction, humour over wittiness and painting over smugness. Most of the time the Stuckist dies alone.

‘18 APR 53

SUBMISSIONS

New Eden Dream Ariella Asher

54

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

(detail)New Eden Dream Ariella Asher Picturesque landscape paintings from the Hudson River School in the mid-19th century illustrated ecological paradise.

These unblemished backdrops exemplified formal beauty, and G-d-like majesty, as well as discovery, exploration, ‘manifest destiny’, the ‘American Dream’, and geographic expansion. However, while Hudson River School artists romanticized the seemingly untouched, fertile beauty of North America – the Civil War, Great Sioux War, and FrancoMexican War, plagued North American soil. In addition, the Emancipation Proclamation, assassination of Abraham Lincoln, and various other industrial developments existed during this time. By recontextualizing various events from this era and placing them into Albert Bierstadt’s work, Looking Down Yosemite Valley, California from 1875, I present a more complex, credible, cultural climate.

In my work, New Eden Dream, I arranged and gathered nearly one thousand images from this time period to create a larger picture. With so many images to examine and in relationship to the main image, each viewer gravitates to different signs and symbols, making everyone’s perspective distinct and singular. This dialogue speaks to each individual’s diverse mosaic-like perspective. In many ways I am a mosaic; my identity as well as my artistic practice.

My interest in exposing ideals of modern progress, post-colonialism, capitalism and diaspora is influenced by my American-Israeli identity and to my father’s experience as a Jewish refugee from Baghdad, Iraq.

‘18 APR 55

SUBMISSIONS

56

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Restoring Balance

Erin Regan

‘18 APR 57

Aretha Hans Wendlandt

For this retro-style poster, I was inspired by 1960's poster artist Victor Moscoso’s use of color theory, collage and hand lettering. I incorporated a U.S. news headline reading “Defiant yet Jubilant Voices Flood U.S. Cities” from an article about the Women’s March in Washington D.C. and combined this headline with a gradient emanating from Aretha Franklin's image.

58

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

SUBMISSIONS

Iris Of Hope Jessica Sellke

‘18 APR 59

60

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

I’m Fine, It’s Fine, Everything’s Fine, Mikaela Nunnally

‘18 APR 61

SUBMISSIONS

Autobiography Kwa Obi

This is my celebration of dreams, dreams that come true,

She gave up her dreams to raise five little devils in

and the dreams that are just that: dreams.

Richmond Virginia, and then Lafayette Colorado I don't know how many times she was yelling my name to

This for my brothers Okera and Ahoto, who apparently

stop acting up or telling me to do my homework

got the tall genes in the family They towered over me as a kid when we would play at

This is for my stupid heart,

Sunset Maple Park, which was always empty

That dreams to love everybody

The other kids would hide from us, and us from them

But my brain tells me to wait,

They always felt like my bodyguards, even though Ahoto

We've been hurt before, remember Lucie?

was a dummy with his huge smile, and Okera was the calm

Don't give your heart to just anybody

one, who always carried the guilt of his accident to me

My brain is smart

I never blamed him for it though; seeing out of one eye is

But now my heart is colder than it was before, waiting,

better than none I tell him

waiting

This is for my friend Miguel, a true athlete

This is for the days of when I was young I would dream

We were always competitive with each other, whether it

of being a professional wrestler, soaring high off of ropes,

came to sports, video games, or girls

feeling the euphoria of having fans who screamed my

I remember the summer nights we’d just stay up playing

name, a legend

zombies and how he always thought he needed to give

I still dream of that occasionally, wanting to live a life

me advice on girls

of excitement

“You just gotta make her feel important,” he'd say.

“Yeah,” I’d reply absent-mindedly, never really paying

So this is for dreams, of all types

attention to his words of wisdom

The true dreams The dreams that are just out of reach

This is for my mother Saba

The dreams that fade

With her kind smile and warm eyes that hide her pain

Because without dreams, I would be nothing

well, but not well enough

62

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

La Gran Granada Johan Ramirez

‘18 APR 63

Untitled John Zeman

64

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

SUBMISSIONS

Untitled John Zeman

‘18 APR 65

SUBMISSIONS

DIVE Kelsey Casados

I let myself drown in your kiss.

When I get lost in our colliding breaths, I take refuge in fistfuls of your hair; pull me back to your surface, it’s safe there.

Palisade

Until

Kelsey Casados

your hands are swimming in the dip

My favorite photo of you was taken

of my waist,

on a stormy September afternoon

the small

in a small Colorado town,

of my back,

famous for its vineyards and peaches.

the rise

We pedaled green bikes with baskets

of my thigh.

past a sunflower patch along the dirt road,

I pull your chest

our hearts racing with

to my ear

the rolling thunder overhead.

and listen

The air was electric

for the waves.

with lightening and our laughter.

I am diving into

My bare legs were muddy from the rain-

your ocean heart,

soaked path, and your tongue was stained red from the

while you stay

wine.

where your feet

You turned to me, with one hand

can touch the bottom

running through your hair,

of the pool.

your eyes making promises with mine.

It was in this moment that I captured you love; your beaming face as vibrant as the flowers surrounding you, your blue shirt wrinkled from the rain.

I reached for you across the handlebars, holding your face in my hands as we kissed, getting lost together beneath the storm.

66

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Chaos and the Calm Francheska Martinez "Chaos and the Calm" is based on the misconceptions behind mental illness and the way society perceives it. Trapped in a glass cude fighting inner demons, which is the destorted shadow behind the trapped figure.

Society is so consumed by documenting the horrible moments rather then helping, as other watch.

‘18 APR 67

Ode To change Ace Hardly

This poem is in celebration of growth,

as it swayed gently with the wind.

because truth be told, people are like flowers.

That tree felt more like home

We grow and change

than my own room and bed ever did.

And each flower petal and word is a cause for an effect.

This is for Sydney whose entire being screamed “mischief”

Each idea spoken aloud is

from her almost constant smile to her nicknames and laughter.

the flap of a butterfly’s wing

She never let me get away with ignorance

that causes a hurricane

and I’m better for it.

or starts building up a better world,

Because of her my eyes are open to reality

a better person.

and I made the first step to accepting myself.

This poem is a reflection into the past,

This is for the bully with red hair and a snub nose

but instead of a mirror it’s a lens

who thought he was clever when he asked if I was queer.

that adjusts my hindsight to 20/20

Because of the wool that had been pulled over my eyes

so I can see in a new light what shaped me,

I didn’t know the meaning behind the word

and feel a new sense of gratitude.

or the mean grins waiting for me to mess up and give everyone a good laugh.

This is my poem to say out loud

I only had the textbook definition by parents

“I was pretty damn lucky.”

who thought they were protecting me from an

I’m glad to have an artist’s mind,

unspeakable evil.

and parents who cared about me in their own way.

“Queer: strange; odd, unusual.”

I’m glad I had access to a ready supply

The answer “Yes” flew from my mouth, loud and proud.

of books, creativity and make believe

“Yes I’m Queer.”

to escape from the cruelty of the world

The laughter that followed made me feel ashamed.

and eventually my own thoughts.

But today there are no hard feelings.

They just saw who I was before I did.

68

This is a nod to the small trailer down the road

I can say that sentence just as proudly, if not more so,

with a friendly sign that read “Hot Sulphur Springs Library”

knowing the true meaning.

whose interior was stacked high with books that smelled like

I can reclaim the slur and turn it into a badge of pride.

dust and paper.

“I am Queer.”

And the giant tree just out back that smelled of pine and sap

This poem is for my theatre kids,

that graced my brother and me with scraped knees and

all of them loud and extroverted and awkward and genuine.

sticky palms

All of whom had welcoming smiles and loud

and gave us the gift of pranks, giggles, and shrieks of laughter

rambunctious personalities

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

SUBMISSIONS

who were the first people to show me

and would whisper theories about the tooth fairy and santa.

through their warm hugs and listening ears and affirmation

The line back to home who keeps me up at night worrying

that “I am in this moment all that I need to be”

because I’m not there to help him through high school.

that a found family was an acceptable replacement

This is for the only blood relative that stood by me

when blood failed to accept me in my entirety.

when the rest of the family couldn’t handle having a lesbian for a daughter.

This is for my parents, who’s hugs and “I love you’s” only reached so far.

This is for the people who were in the right place at the

My mother with her shoulder length brown hair and long nose,

right time

her glasses and rare smile.

Friends of Friends of Friends

My father with his shiny bald head and bushy goatee

who were kind enough to give me a couch to sleep on

with speckles of white amidst the black.

and a place to recoup and get back on my feet

They taught me that I was right to hide myself

despite the fact that they were high school friends

At least for a little while.

of my old roommate because of them I never ended up on the streets.

We stood in the kitchen, my father leaning against the counter, shaking in anger.

This is for the kids I didn’t know personally

With his arms crossed over his broad chest.

but I heard about constantly.

His heavy brows knit together, his lips pursed in a thin line

Kids thrown out of their homes

until the words left his mouth and fell like stones.

kids who were killed by others or their own hand

“You should have told me sooner. Then I could have

because they didn’t fit the gender or sexuality

fixed this.”

that society laid out for them in factory certified plastic wrap.

At the time tears were streaming down my face my throat was too busy holding back sobs

This is my poem to spit back what I was spoon fed,

to give a proper reply. But now I have one.

redefine, reshape and embrace the new meaning.

“I don’t need to be fixed. I’m not broken.”

“You’re lucky to be an American” I’m lucky to be in a first world country

This is for my little brother, the sensitive ‘toe head’ with

I’m also wise enough to see the flaws and want to fix them.

bright blue eyes

“You’re lucky to be born in the only true church,”

and quiet demeanor.

my truth is not the same as yours.

Who now isn’t so little and surpassed me in height.

I’m glad I have the right to stray from your truth

This is for my first rival and playmate

and embrace my own.

The one who would sneak into my room at night

“You’re lucky you have a family that loves you,”

(or vise versa)

‘18 APR 69

SUBMISSIONS

you don’t love me, you love who you want me to be.

the small acts of kindness that still exist.

But that’s ok, people love me for who I am in my entirety.

Even as war rages on

“You take too much for granted.”

even as human rights are challenged

Food, clothes, warmth, a home, an education,

even as inequality reigns amidst denial.

a foot in the door toward true equality.

I will continue on, as will goodness.

I realize I need to stop and appreciate what I have.

I will do the simplest thing This is a poem against raised voices and open palms,

go to bed and wake up,

broken chairs and fists through walls.

the task made easier

I will not be afraid to show who I am.

just by being near Sara, the woman I love,

I will not stand for hatred and bigotry.

the simple closeness all made better

I will not lie down without trying to make a positive

by the loving gaze through green eyes and glasses,

change in the world.

And the dumb jokes and silly grins.

I will remind her how much she means to me.

I will put one foot in front of the other.

I will give myself grace and take the time

I will fall, inevitably, but everyone does.

to enjoy food and films and art.

But even as I fall, I will pull myself back up.

I will overall be as good and kind as I can

I will let others help me up and I will extend a hand to

because if there seems to be no good in the world,

help those around me.

I’ll just have to help make it better.

I will continue to daydream and escape reality.

I will envision a brighter future and give other people inspiration to do the same.

I will breathe. I will live.

I will look at the beauty and art that people have created the movements against injustice the grand examples of architecture the worlds created from the mind of a single person the stories put together through teamwork

70

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Shadow Play Nikolai Puc’

‘18 APR 71

Tech Talk

SAVIOR SELFIE?

T

he rise of social media on the world wide

Tipper Gore blamed heavy metal music for an imaginary

web has elevated the voiceless, but it has

decline of moral values. In 2018, the president wants

also created a serious D-bag problem in

to scapegoat so-called violent video games for school

the form of online social toxicity. In online

shootings. Few politicians have ever lost a job for blaming

games like Overwatch and PUBG, Nerdist threads on

the youth of today for problems that have very little to do

Facebook, and YouTube comments, trashy talk is king

with them. It’s a perk of being old and in charge.

when you are the emperor of jack diddly.

On March 9, 2018, the Overwatch League commission How the hell did we get here?

fined and suspended four of their rising stars for using racial or homophobic emotes and slurs on league streams

In what world does any of this make sense? What is

and in their own social media. The players argue that

intrinsic to the internet that seems to reward toxic

they have the right to do so, but the league believes

behavior? How did cyberbullying, doxing and death

it has an obligation to train the rising stars of the new

threats become a normalized form of online social

competitive pro-gaming landscape to represent the sport

interaction? Is anonymity the root of the problem or is

as professionals. The real world is moving in a completely

there a basic issue with the competitive milieu of the new

different direction and has already signalled it won’t

cyber west that simply brings out the absolute worst in

tolerate toxic behavior from pro-gamers.

some of its digital natives?

Maybe it’s time to push back against ourselves and be To be clear: there is nothing more retro than blaming the

unimpeachable? They’ll never see that coming.

youth for society’s problems. Thirty years ago, Al and -Derek Gregory

72

Metrosphere / Vol 37 / Issue 1

TECHNOSPHERE

Photo by Amani Newell

Technosphere covers the convergence of science, technology and learning. ‘18 APR 73

Graphic by Maddi Waneka

TECHNOSPHERE

74

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Janet Dallas

FLASHBACK APPLE INC.

A

pple is the world's largest tech company. Founded in 1976, Apple has released new products each decade that have revolutionized the way many of us use computers, phones and music. Thinking outside the box has paid off big for Apple, and reimagining the box itself has made it the company it i today.

Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak wanted to make inexpensive computers for everyone. Wozniak’s first design became the Apple I, a computer with a keyboard that could output to a television set. Today, there are a billion Apple devices in use around the world and many of them are carried in our pockets. Apple has consistently pioneered their product design, software and retail sectors, causing real toothache for their competitors.

Apple Insider reported when the London Evening Standard interviewed Jonathan Ive, Apple's leading designer he made this statement.

“Our goals are very simple – to design and make better products, If we can’t make something that is better, we won’t do it.” Apple applied that thinking to all its products.

Jobs, saw the capabilities of the Xerox Alto and decided a graphical user interface was the future. The Apple II was released one year after the company opened 1977 and the Apple IIe was released in 1983. Both were popular household computers for decades. Apple became a public company in 1980, and many Apple employees became millionaires overnight. Apple entered the Fortune 500 club in 1983. Today in their 63rd edition Apple is third among the top 10 companies. Apple's competitors have yet to make the list.

‘18 APR 75

1994

1983

1980

1977

1976

TECHNOSPHERE

Steve Jobs visits Xerox and decides that a graphical user interface is the future of home computers

The Apple II is introduced and more than five million are sold over the next 17 years, until 1994 when production is discontinued

Apple becomes a publicly traded company and many employees become instant millionaires

The Apple IIe is introduced with a showstopping 64K ram

The Power Macintosh is introduced and Apple sells more than a million units within the first year

1998

The original iMac computer is introduced in bright “Bondi” blue and is the first of many Apple products to feature the “i” prefix. Within a year, the iMac is available in five “flavors” (colors). The distinctive “gumdrop” case was designed by Apple designer Jonathan Ive who later designed the cases for the iPod, iPhone and iPad product lines

76

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

2015

2017

The first iPod is released with its distinctive wheel-based navigation design with 5GB of storage that holds up to 1000 songs. In the same year, Apple introduces iTunes which is promoted as "World’s Best and Easiest To Use Jukebox Software."

The first iPhone debuts. Two models are available at launch: a 4GB model for $499 and an 8GB model for $599. Both require a two-year contract with AT&T Mobility. AT&T Wireless maintained an exclusive contract to sell iPhones for their network until

2010

2011 as part of a joint development deal with Apple

The iPad is introduced to a hungry market. Apple sells its first million iPads in half the time it took to sell a million iPhones. By the end of 2010, Apple owns

2001

2007

75 percent of the computer tablet market

Apple Smart Watch is introduced, integrating health and fitness apps with the iPhone product line

iPhone 8 and iPhone X are introduced in the same year to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the iPhone

‘18 APR 77

Heels & Feels

Collage Shabby to Business Chic

M

ay is approaching sooner than I’d like and there’s an ugly truth about graduating that no one likes to talk about. Grades, final exams and tuition payments are merely the cherry on top of the college-graduate sunday, now it’s time to ask the daunting question, “What now?”

If you’re one of the lucky ones you’ve secured a job within your degree before graduation, if you’re not, you’ll be applying and interviewing like a mad-woman/man.

Either way the other and even more important question is: “what are you going to wear?”

The casual crop tops and ripped jeans are a thing of the past, it’s time to face the business casual train head on.

The best gift to give yourself this graduation, is a wardrobe that will land you the job or just keep you within the job dress code. Here are five tips to get your closet business-ready before your first job offer.

78

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

THREADS

1

Staple pieces: These are the things you want to spend a little more money on because

you want quality that will last forever. A black blazer, for example, can turn any outfit into a business formal outfit. It’s smart to have a good pair of heels that you can wear everyday on that obligatory your coffee run and a simple dress that can be styled and worn everyday and look completely different.

2

Business casual or business formal: Before starting a job or before the interview it’s

important to know what the company is like. Some companies say business casual and are OK with jeans every day. The definition of the title of the dress code varies from company to company so its important to scout the place to get a feel for what everyone is wearing. It’s also a great idea to ask before an interview what the dress code is like.

3

Making a dress code your own: Not a fan of dress codes? Neither was I. Although

frustrating, it’s important to create limitations to how people present themselves in a certain workspace. If your free spirit hates limitations remember that you can make any style personal to show your personality. Accessorizing and color can be a great way to add a personal touch.

Layering is also another way to put a personal spin on a business casual uniform.

4

Dress code on a budget: As you begin the journey to a new job chances are your college

student budget will stay the same until you land the job of your dreams. Being able to afford an entire closet of business ready clothes might not be realistic as you start out. Places like H&M, Forever 21 and even thrift stores offer an affordable option to business attire.

5

Confidence is key: It’s important to remember that whatever you wear, you should be

comfortable and confident. Never buy something just because it fits in the dress code but makes you feel terrible. Not only will you perform better in your workplace, but you will enjoy being there day after day if you feel confident in what you’re wearing.

Threads is a creative outlet for fashion and beauty lovers looking for deeper insight.

‘18 APR 79

Not Just Pretty THREADS

Photo by Lauren Cordova

In Pink

Teresa Diaz Soriano

A

n ‘80s music video is all one needs to get a sense of

in their fashion choices. The line between mens and womens wear

what the decade’s fashion was about: bold, innovative

blurred and experimentation, even among the upper class, was

and wacky. The ‘80s embraced neon like everyday was

essential. The ‘80s definitely had a variety of “in” fashion choices that

a rave and churned out fashion icons faster than butter

are more than just novelties, and can be seen in fashion today; while

(not literally, but kind-of). Metropolis areas were hubs for fashion

others are better left in the past – I’m looking at you side pony.

creatives to mix and mesh styles, creating hybrids of the decades most noteworthy trends. Fashion icons ranged from Madonna and

The ‘80s made a comeback on the 2018 spring/summer runways.

Cyndi Lauper to Brooke Shields, Princess Diana and Jane Fonda.

From Prada’s bold political and punkier themes, to the countless

Each sporting different iconic ‘80s looks.

sheer outfits from Dolce & Gabbana, the influence of the ‘80s is undeniable. If you’re looking to learn a little about the past and how

This decade showed how fashion choices could individualize people

to incorporate some of these funky styles in your closet, we’ve got

while seemingly defining them as well. People encoded their identity

the guide to recreating your own ‘80s looks using the latest trends in makeup and clothes.

80

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

THREADS

HEAVY METAL Much like punk, hair metal-heads were anti classic rock mainstream. Hair Metal babes Lita Ford and The Vixens proved women could rock the lions mane better than Slash. If you liked hair metal, chances are you rocked a mini leather skirt, fishnet stockings and studded jacket, paired with a vicious and bold colorful smokey eye. Although this style originates from glam rock

trends

oddities

Marc

pioneered Bolan,

by

David

Bowie and many others in the ‘70s, the ‘80s made the trend grittier. Instead of tights and theatrical makeup, men wore guyliner, had big teased hair and sported skin tight ripped black or acid washed jeans. Anyone remember Jordache?

AEROBIC WEAR Although this trend is now seen as a bit tacky due to the overwhelming amount of neon nylon and leotards, it’s a fashion trend that started with military wives in the late ‘60s.

Jacki Sorensen combined jogging and dancing

creating the exercise fad that gained traction throughout the ‘70s and exploded in the 80s. Jane Fonda’s ‘82 workout video inspired many women (and men) to shine their inner flashdance before “Flashdance” was a thing. Although no one would

Photos from google stock

be caught dead wearing a neon leotard over spandex today and the idea of jazzercising is seen by many as “extra,” this amalgamation of athletic wear and leisure wear is continuously dominating fashion sales.

‘18 APR 81

ALTERNATIVE CLOTHING Anyone growing up in the ‘80s and ‘90s remembers Madonna’s infamous performance on the first MTV Video Music Awards in ‘84.

She seductively rolled on the floor, clad headto-toe in victorian style lace. It was her sultry eyes and erotic attire that helped skyrocket her career as a pop culture icon and usher in a new fashion era. Whether fashion influenced music or vice versa, the VMA’s performance was revolutionary. Millions of viewers watched Madonna parade around on stage in this 80s pop style with the quintessential lace gloves, headband and tutu.

name its roots coincide with the music of the time. Some people define it as “new wave,” while others merely classify it by outfits.

This alternative style trend was a reaction to the ‘70’s simplicity and high class fashion, and had an emphasis, appreciation, and conscious incorporation of decades past. The more layers the better, wearing grandma’s floral print shirt? Perfect. And your mothers jewelry? Great.

It wasn’t just homegrown acts that inspired this vagabond fashion trend, the ‘80s British invasion suffused America’s culture with their overseas’ spice. The Smiths, The Psychedelic Furs and John Lydon's spunky fashion flowed into the nation’s pop culture consciousness.

By the mid ‘80s, this fashion trend was present in some of the decade’s defining movies. John Hughes’ movies “Pretty in Pink” and “The Breakfast Club” have characters showcasing this trend.

82

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Photo collage by Teresa Diaz Soriano

Although this style does not have a definitive

FOR THE NO T

THREADS

SO Photos: Yannis Vlamos / Indigital.tv Dolce & Gabbana Spring Summer 2018

ImaxTree Balenciaga Spring Summer 2018

ImaxTree Alexander McQueen Spring Summer 2018

FEEBLE MINDED

This hodgepodge trend has definitely become iconic and can be seen on the runways every year. Dolce & Gabbana and Mui Mui’s spring/ summer collection “classes up” the trend with airy, sheer floral dresses.

Also making an appearance is sleek pointy-toed pumps paired with sheer socks. Alexander McQueen is pulling out the red and black Victorian style bracelets and necklaces, heavy (literally) and haunting, while Balenciaga

H and M Trendcoat: $49.99 H and M Floral Dress: $49.99 Dollskill Creepers: $92.00 Forever21 Fishnet Pumps: $24.99

Photo: Yannis Vlamos / Indigital.tv Dolce & Gabbana Spring Summer 2018

Photo: Kim Weston Arnold / Indigital.tv Marni Spring Summer 2018

is using bold color and oversized earrings in their line.

‘18 APR 83

THREADS

POWER DRESSING The decade is most commonly known for fishnet fingerless gloves and neon spandex, Party City even has a section dedicated to

YUPPIES

rainbow tutus and brightly colored tights. But some of the pinnacle styles of the decade were not so wacky. Young Urban Professionals or yuppies, were affluent, post-college kids, most of them rich and ambitious, or so they looked. Their regal attire meant strictly business. The onset of this major fashion trend began as the ‘80s economic boom trickled money back into the nation’s hands. The early ‘80s saw two recessions from ‘81-‘82. Under Reagan's second term, the nation flourished with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a steady rise of jobs throughout the decade.

Women entered the workforce in this decade with linebacker shoulder pads sewed into oversized blazers, pencil skirts and pointed shoes. Women looked to Joan Collins and Princess Diana along with shows like “Dynasty,” for their fashion quo.

Men and women alike wore oversized suits and

H and M Patent Loafers: $24.99

trench coats. On leisure days, a typical outfit consisted of khakis, polos and cashmere sweaters tied around their necks.

H and M Jacket: $79.99

84

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

H and M Jacket with Gathered Sleeves $49.99

Although times have changed and usage of the term “yuppie” is a bit different, women in the workforce has not. A woman still needs to dress for success and feel good while doing it. Much like the ‘80s, today’s working class style can be edgier and bolder – minus the mullet. Although bulky suits were seen as sleek and powerful, today's working class business women are still edgy, wearing more form fitting suits.

Target Women’s Velvet Annora Pumps - Who What Wear $37.99

H and M Wrapover Skirt: $34.99 H and M Draped Dress: $69.99

‘18 APR 85

PUNK

UK Punker

Malcolm McLaren

Punk Rock has a twofold history that defined the fashion. Punk

UK Punker

bands in the U.S. were fighting the ‘70s music scene and cultural stagnation while the Brits were fighting government oppression, both doing it through music and fashion. New York City legends The Ramones pioneered the staple Levi’s 505 jeans and worn out leather jacket, while overseas

RAMONES

the powerhouse duo Vivienne Westwood

and

Malcolm

Vivienne Westwood

McLaren spearheaded a more stylized and bolder version of

Punks

punk. Their fashion boutique, Sex, specialized in leather and other BDSM assortments which they

quickly

incorporated

in

punk fashion along with safety pins and chains. Brits dressed in old ‘50s Teddy Boy suits, sported Dr. Martens, (the official working boot),

and

often

had

colorful hair and crazy cuts. By the mid ‘80s this style, still known Photo collage by Teresa Diaz Soriano

as punk, ruled the decade, even as the music dissipated and evolved into other genres.

86

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Joan Jett siouxsie sioux

class

Punks

THREADS

Photos: Monica Feudi / Indigital.tv Prada Spring Summer 2018

Glam Punk

While there is no recreating hair metal trends in 2018 – goodbye tight jeans and crimped bangs – punk rock remains a thriving fashion scene today. Prada gets militant for its latest spring/summer collection, inspired by the recent political climate

in

America

and

comic

books. The runway was ablaze with black, pops of red and comic book graphics

printed

on

distressed

jackets, jeans and shirts.

FashioNation Demonia Ranger Black Platform Heel Boot $78.95 Forever21 Active Top: $12.99 H and M “Studio Collections” Jacquard-patterned Skirt $79.99 H and M “Studio Collections” Tunic $69.99 Forever21 Fishnet Pumps: $24.99

‘18 APR 87

THREADS Madonna loved her ripped jeans

paired

with

booties,

thrifted for less than 10 bucks.

The staple item here is that damn vest and jacket. The vest – a buck, but the jacket is vintage The Limited circa 2013, I frequently pair bold jackets with

before the stores demise.

simple black or white shirts. It turns out my neon yellow and blue blazers are a perfect pair to go with my moms ‘80s mini dress – that she wore to her fifth grade continuation. Shoes were thrifted and eearings are Lauren’s mother – in– laws. Leg warmers are always Photo by Jessica Holman Styled by Teresa Diaz Soriano Makeup by: Sara Jean Almeida Model: Hannah Neace

88

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

in (shhhh, low key they’re not).

Photo by Jessica Holman Styled by Teresa Diaz Soriano Makeup by: Sara Jean Almeida Model: Hannah Neace

Metrosphere goes '80s

Photo by Jessica Holman Photo by Lauren Cordova Styled by Teresa Diaz Soriano Makeup by: Sara Jean Almeida Model: Hannah Neace Photo by Jessica Holman Styled by Teresa Diaz Soriano Makeup by: Sara Jean Almeida Model: Hannah Neace

Pull on your dankest tights and sequined mini skirt and get your pirate boots out because your going hair metal baby! Unfortunately we forgot to tease the hair but bring your pic and Aqua Net on the go and your good.

‘18 APR 89

THREADS

AARON RODRIGUEZ Bianey Bermudez

A

s the Denver fashion scene grows, so does the talent. There's no shortage of fashion savvy creatives with a passion and style edge in the Mile High City. Aaron Rodriguez

or Blank Canvas Fashion as some would know him from his instagram handle, is a local stylist, writer and overall fashion enthusiast. Rodriguez who specializes in editorial and studio styling, is a prominent feature in the Denver fashion scene having styled for magazines like 303 Magazine and Denver Style as well as hairstudios and other local photographers. He credits his fashion obsession to Mandi Line, who worked as a costume designer for six years on the hit teen show,“Pretty Little Liars. “ She created some of character, Aria Montgomery’s fashion staples which sparked Rodriguez’s styling interest.

After a stint working at Chase Bank and after taking a much needed vacation, he had a moment of reflection and decided to jump into the fashion industry. We sat down with Aaron to get a feel for what it’s like being a fashion creative in Denver.

90

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Photos by Jessica Holman

‘18 APR 91

So what does jumping in look like?

Jumping in for me was mentally preparing myself for this journey. I still remember going to my room having this moment of prayer and being this vulnerable and being like ‘OK if I'm going to do this I’m going all in.’ I was going to have to have thick skin, I was going to have to start from scratch, I was going to have to learn what does a stylist do, the tricks of the trade, also starting from scratch for a portfolio.

How did you start building your portfolio?

It all kind of started at the same time I started my instagram and came up with the name Blank Canvas Fashion. This local blogger Debonair Gent put something on Instagram, a month in from when I had quit and I was living off my savings, but he was looking for contributors, photographers, stylist, etcetera, and I jumped for it. I went over to his house for the shoot and I put together outfits and that was my first time putting together outfits. It was fun and everything he wanted I said yes to and I trusted my instincts. I asked to shred the models jeans and she said yea. And from there, it started where he had me do a different shoot with a Model: Alyssa Good Styled by Aaron Rodiguez Botique: Midnight Rambler Photos by Jessica Holman

different photographer and that photographer used me for something else and then the ball started rolling.

Have you always written or is that something that you started with this journey?

I’ve been writing since I was a kid. I loved to read and write. I went to college for creative writing at Metropolitan State University.

When did you start pulling your own clothes?

This amazing local photographer, Noah Berg, I had met him once at a photoshoot, he saw my work, he like it we met up for coffee. By that point I had a little bit of a portfolio going and he wanted me to style for his shoot.

I agreed. I took it on as a challenge which has been so much of this journey. That was the first time Ii had to pull clothing, in the past the models would bring clothes or the person who set up the shoot brought clothes.

92

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Model: Alyssa Good Styled by Aaron Rodiguez Botique: Midnight Rambler Photos by Jessica Holman

THREADS

‘18 APR 93

THREADS

What did you learn from that experience?

So I had to learn to talk to people saying “hey here is what we're doing will you let us borrow clothes?” [I learned] how to take the rejection if they said no. It allowed me to channel my personality, Im loud, I laugh a lot, I smile a lot which has helped. I’ve had boutique owners tell me I have a very trusting vibe. Also really learning to be professional, sometimes email doesn’t work and I’ve ran into the issue where stylist have ruined clothes which ruins trust.

What sets you apart?

My edge, learning to stick to my guns and sticking to my edge which really I feel like is going to keep building my career.

How long have you been doing this? How many jobs have you had?

At this point it's been a little over two years, both paid and just portfolio building shoots I’ve had quite a few, which built my aesthetic along the way. At first it was just me saying this looks good together that's a good outfit and along the way I found my aesthetic. But I'm going to say about 40 styling shoots. And a lot of those where clothes along the way. From learning how to pull clothes, to damaging my first piece of clothing and offering to pay for and learning that boutiques respect that and building those relationships of trust with those boutiques.

What are your thoughts on the Denver fashion scene?

[I have] a love/hate relationship with Denver. I love when people take risks. I wish Denver took more risks. It’s very Denver Dapper, which I’m down for jeans and a flannel once in a while but I wish Denver felt the freedom to be like ‘you know, what sure we’re in the midwest but why not wear feathers?’

94

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Model: Alyssa Good Styled by Aaron Rodiguez Botique: Midnight Rambler Photos by Jessica Holman

learning how to do things and learning how to take care of

THREADS

Do you think the Denver fashion scene is moving toward a more risky vibe?

I think it is slowly getting there, It’s not running but it’s not super behind either but I think with transplants, people are bringing their own styles from other places.

What have been your favorite projects so far?

What I’ve started doing is taking all the things I love and putting them together. Writing short horror stories for my blog and making a fashion character in those stories, writing about what they are wearing and using photo shoots to bring some of that fashion alive and then putting it in the story so that as your reading you can see what im talking about and so its been a fun little hybrid project that I hope will really turn into something.

What is your advice to people who are just getting into fashion and don’t really know how to project the style that they want to achieve?

Be honest with yourself and don’t be afraid to try new things. If I tried a trend that didn’t really work out at least I could say I tried instead of, ‘oh I wonder how that would’ve looked.’ Also my number one rule is break all the rules. Don't be afraid to stand out and along the way your going to find your style.

Believe it or not I used to wear all colors and prints and I still remember the day I wanted to wear all black and now my closet is all black so listen to yourself. Lastly, wear things for Model: Alyssa Good Styled by Aaron Rodiguez Botique: Midnight Rambler Photos by Jessica Holman

you, wear it for yourself that's all that matters.

‘18 APR 95

THREADS

athleisurewear KENDRA MONTOYA MSU DENVER

ANG SHERPA MSU DENVER

on campus

What are your favorite brands of athletic street clothing?

Well right now I’m in all Puma and I also wear a lot of Adidas and Nike.

CRISTIAN MELENDEZ CU DENVER

and athletic wear?

twist on this style?

I feel like it has the most variation

I think I don’t try to put my

out of like the different kinds of

own twist on it, I just wear

clothing. A lot of different styles

what I like personally and it

go into those groups and I feel like

might be different than how

there’s something for everyone.

other people wear the style.

96

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

Photos by Kaileigh Lyons

Why do you like street wear How do you put your own

VISIT US TODAY 900 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204

‘18 APR 97

photo by Otter J

THREADS

51 BROADWAY - DENVER

98

Metrosphere / Vol 36 / Issue 6

226 E 13TH AVE - DENVER

1813 PEARL ST - BOULDER