CW at SXSW // Day One

/ SXSW/

We're on our adventure and exploring Austin, Texas like real hipsters, who love music, haven't been in heat in months, and can't stop staring at all the dopeness.

Day One at SXSW:

"Look at that yo!" was probably the tagline of the day, besides the epic reference to support local business, "Keep Austin Weird." Everything was eye catching, and random; just the way we like it. 

Austin SXSW scene reminds us of MKE's Water Street mixed with a Brady Street facade. The urban elements popping, the black magic enticing, and the street fashion too Steezy from day to night. 

Everyone here is looking for a connect, playing a showcase and grilled up. (mouth shots!)

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We checked out the Mazda Studio at Empire to catch Talib Kweli's set, which was packed, lit and of course, an honor.

We also got a chance to see The Blood is at the Doorstep, the documentary about Dontre Hamilton & his family, directed and produced by Erik Ljung, which premiered here at SXSW. (CW thought the documentary was very thought-provoking, and well filmed. #SupportTheLocal)

Guess who else is in town? Mike Regal! Dropping #Bars (of course) at the Coast 2 Coast showcase.

Let's see what today brings...we are excited to see if the SXSW culture is just what we need to put our own city on the map and FULLY in the mix.

Freakish: 

This is probably going to be the story of how I fell in love with Austin and just like any love story, it starts with me playfully disliking this city. There's no where to park, food is expensive, and I still haven't had a good taco.

Lines are long, people are rude, and I've had to change socks like three times, but this city is beautiful, and even through the driest of dry heats, I can see what brings people here. The knick-knacks are weird, the people are weirder, and there's a welcoming vibe flowing through the bamboo stalks around the corner from our hotel.

I can see myself loving this city, but for right now I'm admiring from a distance waiting for her to show me who she really is.

Syn:

"KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD, MAN!" & it won't be that hard when you're in this environment. 

SXSW; thus far, has been a hub for some dope shit. My favorite part is the intertwining of different cultures and the natural hair love was REAL. From #BlackGirlMagic and #BlackBoyJoy; you could see the support of the Puff and I love that. #SupportThePuff #MyCurlsWasPoppin #PinkFroGang #BetYouCantDoItLikeSyn... Even brands like Shea Moisture were in the city; supporting hair styles and types of all kind with a glam squad on hand, free products and of course some dope Instagram posts. (I may or may not be on their Instagram soon @sheamoisture)

Dirty: 

"CW is Sexi." - Words from a group of guys standing in the middle of 6th St.

It never fails no matter were we go, they notice. Good...because we are watching too. Talking to strangers, about fashion, music and where they are from always gives me a feel for the event. Who is at SXSW, and why does it matter? No matter where we go I want to see the REAL. There is nothing less intriguing then overly Bougie Street festivals cultivated by posers...and I know Bougie. Austin seems like a good balance of culture, people hungry for a moment to shine, and music...Music, Music, and Music. It gives me hope that maybe home can build something similar...I want this movement. I want this moment. This is research: Put in the work. Create the change. Perspective Babyyyyyyy! 

PLUS 

Supporting every genre of music was a beautiful thing to see. Seeing different people support local and bigger name artists was amazing. It was for every kind of person that wants to come together in one united front.

From civil protests on the streets of 6th to the perspective of seeing Milwaukee in Austin; I couldn't help but feel (a little) at home.

Love & All Things Urban,

/CW (GVNG GVNG SQUAD CIRCLE MoBB) 

Shooter: Mahdi Gransberry

#100Womxn

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Today is International Women's Day. And while CopyWrite is a proud women owned and operated business, we couldn't help but take this moment to recognize Corey Fells for his "100 Womxn" project.

Inspired and crafted as an ode to his mother, Pookie; Corey has crafted a project that shines a light on the beauty, growth and strength of millennial womxn of color. Featuring a range of womxn from local entrepreneurs, artists, mothers, sisters and so much more; Corey uses photography to document the essence of these 100 womxn and to tell their stories.

Ultimately, the project itself tells an interesting visual story as the main figures share multiple commonalities along with a common place - being womxn and physically being in the same space at different moments. Pay special attention to how the background changes with time in this series.

So thank you Corey ... Pookie would be proud.

Check out some of the portraits below then see the rest on his website here. 

Insider Note: CopyWrite was in the middle of shooting our #SociallyResponsible campaign video when Corey asked us to participate. We were not ready. Hahaha

CW - On the Street #SociallyResponsible Campaign II

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CopyWrite is on a mission to uplift our community by using our platform to change the narrative and empower the individual. We recognize that big issues take systematic change, but we also believe that every person has their own power and should not be afraid to use it. We challenge you to discover yours.

Our #SociallyResponsible campaign sheds a light on the various perspectives that make up Milwaukee’s community in the hopes that we find a more realistic approach to coexistence. It's time to look a little deeper.

Take a look at our second video in the series, asking the question, "What does it mean to be Socially Responsible?" 

Then take a position on humanity. Be #SociallyResponsible

Shooter: Mahdi Gransberry // Music by Dipperachi ft. Pizzle & Reggie Bonds

 

 

Coffee & Creme Fashion Show: From Vato's Perspective

/ Company Brewing/

Get your coffee mugs and hot cocoa because it may have been chilly outside but this event had really cozy feel.

The day of the Coffee & Creme Fashion was a big day for Roshá (owner of the Style Hub). There was much to do, with limited time to do it!

Roshá Brister and Vato Vergara

Roshá Brister and Vato Vergara

8:15 a.m. rolls around and she is pumped; it’s go time! As she walks down the spiral stairs into the living room Mahdi pops into her mind. Upon booking him as the videographer for the event, we discussed him shooting footage of the setup process, which means she had to look fly while setting up chairs, thematic trees, and backdrops. After, jamming to some music and getting dressed, she hits me up with a text, “Where you at Slim?”

Roshá and I were finally able to meet up around 10 a.m. by that time she had already picked up the chairs and backdrop for the show. Thank Gawd that it all fit in my truck. We ran around town grabbing last minute items, that would ensure the Coffee & Creme was successful, yet glamorous event!”

For all my event planners, marketing coordinators and entrepreneurs, I’m sure you all can attest to that fact things don’t always go as planned. The Style Hub experienced great challenges planning The Coffee & Creme Fashion show, by no means was it a walk in the park. Roshá, came up with the idea in a coffee shop, hence the name. If you know nothing about her, just know that She loves coffee! She started planning this event back in August of 2016 and originally planned to do the show in November, but pushed it back. From past experience, she knew that she could not do this event alone, so eventually she reached out for help planning, developing, and implementing the event. I came up with a few great ideas on how to  promote, set up the venue, host model casting calls (I could go on and on). But still there were more issues to overcome.

So, what made it so difficult?

Murphy’s Law: Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.

Our backdrop was missing a pole, the photographer who was paid never showed up and a few model bailed out the show last minute. But as a team we worked together. There was no obstacle too big for the both of us.

Back stage was blissful and vibrant. The models were super ecstatic and Roshá even got a chance to get a live recording of the a model’s and I dancing and jammin’ out to the music. Each designer was tentatively getting each of their models dressed and fitted for their outfits. From back-stage the runway seemed to lit up perfectly. You saw this glimpse of elegance mixed with a chill vibe. In our eyes everything was perfect. It wasn’t crazy and the energy was positive. This time around we were not nervous to get the show on a roll. I felt calm and collected.

This time I wasn't able to see the show, because I was apart of it (Being one of the four designers, who styles ripped the runway). But being backstage was still dope. We had one bathroom and over 20 models lol. But fashion show chaos is an exhilarating feeling. The switch up, the make up, the final touches, we were ready.

With the runway looking like a winter wonderland, and the models ready to melt it all like coffee with cream, DJ Dub Deezy came through with music, Ricardo Wynn, killed it as a host interacting with the audience and keeping everyone engaged. It went well.

Was that a great story or what?

Now of course we can't just give you an ending like that. So I, Vato, would love to give you my REAL opinion of the show…here goes:

I'm normally in the audience; critiquing and talking my normal trash; but this time I was behind the scenes. Mannnnnnn, when I tell y'all I had to sneak to see all the designers in the show, it was so much going on. Anybody who knows me, knows I can show up to things whenever I feel it’s appropriate. Haha Fashionably late! I arrived back at the show at 6pm. All my models were waiting on me;  but of course my styles were already ready. The green room was a packed with models, designers, press, sponsors, and anybody who had a hand in the show. Live thats how we like it!

As the show started D.Denim went first. She displayed some of the ripest denim outfits i have ever seen. Denim dresses, skirts, chokers, heels, shirts; I mean absolutely denim everything. Her show set the bar for all the following designers. My favorite looks were Carlos, with the dark denim top and the light denim pants and Nicole, with the denim peplum top with the fitted denim pencil skirt and denim choker.

The second designer to go was Paul (Blue Eclipse) velvet, silks, and flowy fabrics with a dash of sparkle. His line up was awesome!  He styled the men in a very eccentric way, which was a bold move. “I Dare you to be different” is what I would call it. My favorite looks by him were worn by Natt Nyah in the Velvet dress and Brave Burks with his White and Gold boots. Both looks convey Regality, in a new way.

The 3rd designer is one of my Favorites and you all should know of her work by now; EmRis. She came through with the models and the styles. We all love the athletic look presented in the show; EmRis rocked her set like always. Of Course, my favorites was Briesha and Richon. (These models are the same ones featured in CopyWrite Magazine Issue VII: The Art of Perspective).

The last show was of course; no other the the fashion guru himself; Me. Lol

I'm not for the most part a designer; I'm a stylist. I make it a lifestyle; instead of your normal walking fashion show I wanted to entertain my audience with live styling and a diverse way of walking; my favorite look for my set was, Alex with the vintage bucks pullover windbreaker and Michelle, with the bad & bougie look; burgundy fur and velvet pencil skirt.

Now look here! Everybody in this show did great; the audience was hyped and someone's mother was walking all through the show; we should probably have her at the next model call LOL.

Despite all the chaos behind the scenes; I don't think anyone realizes the blood sweat and tears that was put into getting this show to be as successful as it was. The host had it going in the room; audience participation and gave out the best introductions. Hell he was even setting up too.

Closing out with the DJ subbing all types of ratchetness .... everyone got to mix and mingle when the show ended.

The next morning we all probably needed a little Coffee & Cream.

/Vato

 

Photography provided by The Style Hub and Emmanuel Brown Photography

The Wisconsin Black Historical Society Rings In Kwanzaa

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With Christmas winding down Kwanzaa is going up! The weeklong celebration honors African heritage, unity, and culture through food, community, gifts and the seven principles Nguzu Saba (seven principles of African heritage).

This week the Wisconsin Black Historical Society will be holding festivities Monday and Friday in honor of the Kwanzaa holiday. I got the pleasure of attending the umoja-unity, opening ceremonies this past Monday. During such a turbulent time in Black America and our city itself, it was inspiring and refreshing to see so many beautiful black and brown faces in one room gathering to celebrate African-American heritage.

Black vendors from every corner of the city filled my eyes with colorful dashikis, fabrics, jewelry and some of Africa's most treasured imports (like shea butter, my favorite). My nose was greeted with the aroma of a buffet that stretched from wall to wall and my ears were surrounded with the sound of African drums; the crowd cheering on young the dancers. On top of the entertainment we also engaged in important discussion surrounding the black community and solutions to improving the issues faced. Overall, it was a 10/10 experience, I promise you will leave feeling energized, lifted and liberated.

So I know you're thinking "aye, this sounds dope how can I get involved?" Luckily Monday was not the last Kwanzaa event, you still have your chance to attend today, Friday the 30th at 6pm! Located at The Wisconsin Black Historical Society on 26th and Center Street.

Milwaukee, despite its issues, has a rich African-American heritage; many are unaware of the very gems that are hidden in their backyard. To stay connected like the WBHS on facebook

https://www.facebook.com/WIBlackhistoricalsociety or visit the website at http://www.wbhsm.org

/Bria

5th Annual #DWYD Toy & Book Drive for Children's Hospital and The Milwaukee Child Advocacy Center

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Tis the season to be #SociallyResponsible

#DWYD Joshua Scarver is heading up the mission to give back for the holidays with a fantastic Toy & Book Drive for Children's Hospital and The Milwaukee Child Advocacy Center.  The goal is to collect 2,000 toys & books now through Dec. 23rd. Drop off locations listed below. (Some locations will continue to collect through January 2017.)

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VoodooHoney Presents Nightmare on Center St EP

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Hallo-weekend is among us.

And here at CopyWrite, we're celebrating by supporting our local artists at the second annual Nightmare on Center Street event this Saturday Oct 29. 

The event will be held at multiple venues along the Eastside of Center street. Hosting some of the city’s bands and artists such as Klassik, Bo Triplex and his Beautiful Band, Kyndal J, Chakara Blu and Lorddee Fredd33. To get more anticipation for the shows to come, VoodooHoney released an electric mix of some of the artists performing. Though we don't know much about who/what VoodooHoney is. The mix is pretty dope; giving new energy to some of the songs.

Check out the mix below and let us know who you want to see perform for next year's event in the comments. 

As we anticipate the shows to come (and the killer costumes) learn more about attending the event here or get your tickets for both individual shows or a $15 wristband for all the shows at local venues: Company Brewing, HIGH DIVE MKE, The Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts and Club Timbuktu Milwaukee.

You won't want to miss this... #RespectTheRiverWestVoodoo

An eclectic Mix of new music provided by bands Performing at 2016 Nightmare On Center Street, 7pm-2am October 29nth Halloween has always been a much-celebrated holiday in Milwaukee and this year the Riverwest neighborhood is literally taking center stage by hosting the “Second Annual Nightmare on Center Street” on Saturday, October 29. Multiple venues along the neighborhood’s hippest street will host some of the city’s most popular bands. Company Brewing, HIGH DIVE MKE, The Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts and Club Timbuktu Milwaukee are offering tickets for both individual shows or a $15 wristband for all the shows. www.facebook.com/events/1086879218032928/

#WCW Kierston Ghaznavi // Keghaznavi Illustration

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This week we bring you Kierston Ghaznavi of Keghaznavi Illustration! Kierston and I met at 2035 Art + Media Studio’s annual MKE United Festival and I fell in love with her dope illustrations, paper dolls, coloring books, and down to earth personality.

Kierston is a Milwaukee native and UWM Graduate with a BFA Graphic Design. Kierston’s pieces are for sure one of a kind and eye catching, I love seeing women of color making meaningful and unique art work, she’s really reppin’ for Milwaukee’s black female visual artists.

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Keghaznavi illustrations focuses on creating positive images and reconstructing stereotypes about black women and black beauty as a whole. When I spoke with Kierston she stated, “I want to counteract the media portrayal of women of color (specifically black women)”.

Kierston also discussed some heavy issues such as cultural appropriation and black face and how art can be used to make these negative ideas things of the past. Kierston draws inspiration from women she sees in everyday life, whether that be a passer by or an Instagram beauty. She creates her work because she loves and and has a desire to spread positivity through her medium, she also aims to make fine art more accessible.

Kierston creates small things such as her original paper dolls or coloring book pages that can be priced affordably, “I want to take art from the walls and make it something you can use”.

This is something us at CopyWrite can definitely get down with as we too feel like the art scene can be a little too pretentious at times. Creative, authentic, and positive, what is there not to love about this week’s #WCW?

See more of Kierston's work at keghaznavi.com and follow her on Instagram. 

All photo credits courtesy of Kierston Ghaznavi oh Keghaznavi Illustrations

#WCW BlackPaint Studios

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This week we bring you not one, but two #WCW’s, the bad-ass branding maven team consisting of Katie Mullen and Jordan Pintar.

Image by Amanda Lillian Photography // facebook.com/amandalillianphotography/

Image by Amanda Lillian Photography // facebook.com/amandalillianphotography/


I originally came across Jordan under a Facebook post calling for all the boss ladies, creatives, and leaders in our community. A few google searches (Google is your friend!) I was brought to the website blackpaintstudios.com.


“Not your mother’s creative studio” the two state, black paint studios is a progressive boutique advertising and branding agency based out of our very own MKE. BlackPaint Studios prides itself with what they would call “exciting and empathetic work” their designs and style are all focused on culture and the human experience. Trust, this isn't your Colgate toothpaste ad team. 

Katie and Jordan aim to break the norms and stuffy culture of the advertisement business as we know. They aim to inspire more women to not only break into the creative directing industry but own it. The “Boss Lady Project” aims to break down the creative industries "white male" power structure through street level campaigning. (Check out the blog http://bossladyproject.com/)

They're all about the artistic integrity and stories behind the work they produce. Katie and Jordan are giving creative directing the soul and realness we see lacking at many other agencies ( The rest of you....#DoBetter). Did we mention they do community work as well? Black Paint volunteers time to aid FROM HERE TO HER Artist Collective. FROM HERE TO HER is an artist collective of women aiming to empower their communities making them safer, happier, and healthier through art. Now that's definitely something we can rock with.


#WCW worthy, we certainly think so Boss Ladies.

We're completely obsessed with there work for Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin. Check out the mural ("The Goddess of FIerce Protection") they projected on the building below and follow there Instagram for all dope things from the boss ladies.

👀 Can't paint? Project! #100YearsStrong #plannedparenthood #blackpaintstudios

See this Instagram video by @blackpaintstudios * 33 likes


All images provided and owned by BlackPaint Studios and Amanda Lillian Photography.