Turning Up In The Sun With Some Artistic Fun- ArtBlaze 2025

Photo credit: Samer Ghani

For as long as I could remember, summer has always been categorized as the season of adventure, unity, care-free nights, and daring exploration. However, for inner-cities such as Milwaukee, that never stopped the summer’s #1 question being, “Where can I go and what are things for me to do to live my summer up to the fullest?”. Several young adults described often feeling “aged out” and neglected from constantly seeing programs, events, and opportunities being curated for only kids knee high; specifically designed on the foundation of Arts & Entertainment. Co-Founders Deb Kern and Doug McDonald of one of Milwaukee’s fastest-emerging nonprofits, Joy Engine, paid immense detail to the conversation circulating and used it as fuel for a unique and abstract idea that had been in their vault for years. ArtBlaze, a series of free, family-oriented events designed to be a celebration of community, creativity, and connection, made a splash at its debut last year, with no hesitation or plans of stopping this summer.

The buzz around the city describes ArtBlaze as inventive beach parties, but that is a minimal way to approach the entirety of the artistic series. This year’s stage was our very own [also fully revamped] McKinley Beach- located at 1750 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53202. The three-day series, consisting of Thursdays, July 24th, August 7th, and August 21st, 2025, proudly and equally represented multiple forms of artistic expression, from music, fashion, and hand art. ArtBlaze is a free annual summer event that is open to the public of all ages. Whether you’re a certified foodie searching for your latest discovery, a beast on the dance floor, or a connoisseur of the arts, make this your annual summer move. The sounds of ArtBlaze were inspiring, lively, and created a communal vibe. The lineup consisted of a plethora of MKE favorites as if they were all attending the ultimate class reunion:

DJ Luke Warm

DJ Gemini Gilly

NilexNile

*aya

MKEMe Crew

Tlalok

SHADI

The Quilz

Allison Mahal

Pulpa De Guayaba

Photo credit: Samer Ghani

They each played a pivotal role in sparking passion and translucent lightbulbs inside all guests who were having the time of their lives on the sandy grounds of McKinley. Joy Engine made it their mission to offer a creative and cultural buffet to all attendees with the amount of different activities that were available at this year’s ArtBlaze. The activities included: Tie-Dyes w Spun.Out.Dyes, making a mandala with Sophie Tarantino, Bubbles with Poppy, and hands-on art experiences with Arts@Large and AWE (Artists Working In Education). 

“McKinley Beach will be transformed into a haven of artistic wonder and musical delight, shining a light on our amazing parks and local artists. Families can participate in interactive art, engage with local artisans and vendors, make s’mores at the bonfires, or simply relax with friends and family.
”

— Co-Founders Deb Kern and Doug McDonald

If you missed this interactive and immersive artistic experience, no need to worry. Joy Engine has created ArtBlaze as an annual event that is constantly evolving. Stay tuned for their recap of this year’s biggest moments on their Youtube [Joy Engine] and stay connected with them on all socials @joyengine.

Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW

Hero Da Kyng - No Headaches

Y’all, I think we found a cure that can relieve all headaches! Hero Da Kyng released his new song “No Headaches,” and it’s exactly what the doctor prescribed. This song has a vibey smooth feel with catchy lyrics and a flow that’s reminiscent of B.O.B and André 3000. It has a nice early 2010s/ late 2000s feel that we all wish we could go back to. 

What we enjoy most about “No Headaches” is the balance that it has. The song holds depth in its lyrics with a clear message about stunting on your haters and making them your motivators, while also being catchy and giving a commercial feel that you could hear on the radio all day!

The production from Exam 325 Music House and Mob Fanalia compliments the lyrical delivery perfectly with 808 beats that give space to showcase his range. It shows that he can be hard when needed, but also knows when to pull back and let the melody breathe.

We can see that this is new music from an artist that clearly understands his craft. He is bringing some of that Southern Florida grit to Milwaukee and we messing with what he bringing! 

This a hit to clear y’all head like Tylonel! Ya’ll make sure y’all vibe out and give it a listen!

/Sky Abner for CW 

---

BLAX - Young Little Ghetto Boy [SINGLE]

[We have been receiving a lot of music from BLAX. . .Good music at that!]

“Every superhero needs his theme music” is a phrase that comes to mind when I think about Blax’s (@the_god_degree) single “Young Little Ghetto Boy”. 

It’s like a musical victory lap once you’ve beat the odds and defied expectations. With lyrics depicting the story and struggle of “a youth with visions beyond prisons”, a vibrant and commanding voice raps over high hats about triumphing over freezing winters and government cheese to live a life “like a Negro Spiritual, a true Black miracle”. Salute to the Young Little Ghetto Boys and Girls all over the world and right here at home in the 414.

As the submission states: The track serves as both autobiography and broader commentary on urban life, with BLAX weaving together memories of his youth with descriptive storytelling that captures the essence of growing up in the streets. Despite tackling serious subject matter, “Young Little Ghetto Boy” maintains an uplifting, bouncy production that transforms potentially heavy themes into an anthem of resilience and survival.

The song is available on all major streaming platforms. Take a listen and let us know what you think! Check out Blax on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

BK for /CW

---

Young Whip - I AM [EP]

Young Whip knows exactly who he is and is making sure you know too in his new hip-hop EP called “I AM” released on July 17th.

This project is so clean. No, for real y’all, it’s radio friendly with no profanities. The perfect music to play in the car to make you feel like your HIM. He is giving us vibey bars and popping his stuff in a way that’s holds weight behind it. The production is nice with beats that make you want to turn it up and hear the bass.

Grinding since 2010, you can definitely hear the hustle in his delivery. When he says “I AM” he’s not just talking, he’s declaring it. Each track represents companies in his business network that paint a picture of empire-building over hit-chasing.That’s big brain energy right there!

That being said, the tracks feel like they end before you can really get into them. We’re being served hip-hop appetizers when we want a full course meal! We want time to marinate in what he’s saying and that’s not happening when the four song EP is about six minutes long.The delivery is pretty solid, but there is room to experiment more with cadence, pacing and vocal dynamics to keep listeners on their toes.

Still “I AM” is a strong step forward and proof that Young Whip is carving out his own lane. If this is just the warm-up, the next release will definitely have us anticipating and hopefully you too.

Family-friendly hip-hop that still hits? Ya’ll make sure y’all vibe out and give it a listen!

/Sky Abner for CW 

---

Crowned In Color: Bronzeville ArtWalk 2025

“The Sugar Shack” By: Ernie Barnes

/CW Fam, take a moment to reflect on the image pictured above. What do you see? What emotions come over you? What place does this painting take you to? Ever heard of the phrase, “You just had to be there?” For the first time in my life, I felt that this statement did not apply to me in relation to Ernie Barnes’ The Sugar Shack.

---

Saturday, (August 9th, 2025), taking place in the heart of Bronzeville, Food For Health, located at 2007 N Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Milwaukee, WI, presented Crowned In Color: Bronzeville Artwalk. Within the first two steps of walking into the historic venue, a feeling of being transported into Barne’s The Sugar Shack occurred, and it no longer felt like modern day.

The textured tan walls, grand coffee brown stairways, emerald green conversation pits, and speakeasy-inspired dim lighting heightened the ambiance and expectations for the evening ahead. Many may have assumed it would be like any art gallery, where there’s a smooth volume level, a serene musical buffet, and three thought-provoking questions asked to the guests by the welcoming curator. Although that describes a successful art gallery, the Crowned In Color: Bronzeville Artwalk was a unique night for not only the people of Bronzeville, but also for the undying substance of art. 

Growing up throughout the city, I was in every after-school club you can think of; heavily exposed to the different mediums of art such as painting, spoken-word, drawing, and music. Hence why I was as confident as Jordan in game 6 of the 1991 NBA Finals, walking into the showcase thinking I knew exactly how the event would look and feel. I couldn’t have been more wrong as it felt as if I stepped into a modern Harlem Renaissance. What is your definition of art? Is it a form of escapism and peace from your reality? A creative activity you do with your friends or boo as a hobby? This is the question that was continuously spinning in my mind at the beginning of the artwalk, so the only thing that made sense was to ask the sources who were brewing the curiosity and questions inside me—the artists themselves.

“Art is living and not existing. It is beauty in pain but richness in happiness.”-Graphic Designer Savvy Breaux

A sense of euphoria and regalness overcame my spirit and mind as I viewed Savvy’s art pieces throughout the night. As the jack of trades and I talked about their pieces, I observed the deep appreciation and admiration for both bright colors as well as Asian culture that Savvy incorporates into their catalog. Since the age of eight years old Breaux knew the significance of what art is and how it is one of the engines that keeps not only communities going but individual journeys as well. With inspiration as Andy Warhol, life has always been Savvy’s muse when it comes to creating, which is why when asked the question, “Why is art important to Bronzeville culture?” no hesitation occurred.

Artwork By Savvy Breaux

“Representation is born through our art. There’s a massive correlation between Bronzeville’s community members and the city. Walking in spaces like this, it never feels like you’re in Bronzeville or Milwaukee period. We need to change that and start making spaces and places like tonight the norm for Bronzeville’s culture.”-Savvy Breaux

“We are art. Everything we do, from the swag we wear, relationships we have, and interests that make us different from one another, is the bed of art. We don’t even know the type of foundation constantly laid out for art by just being.”-Artist, Tierra Bender 

Bender had a light in their eye the entirety of our conversation. Fascination ran through my veins as they outwardly showed excitement and passion for their art being displayed, Untitled.17. From the moment I witnessed the self-portrait, I was at a loss for words. The continent of Africa immediately struck my mind. Bender then shared how the piece they chose to showcase at this year’s artwalk was a work in progress from the years of 2019-2022. Pieces of Tierra’s parents, Princess Diana’s funeral, and even an old resume of Bender’s made the project whole. 

“Finding yourself is a process. I incorporated things such as what I know love to be in my piece because that is the journey I am constantly on; finding out who I am and where I am going. Art is my coping mechanism.”- Artist, Tierra Bender

Untitled.17 By: Artist, Tierra Bender

This year’s Bronzeville Artwalk was not only the conclusion of a competition between all the artists. Each of their artwork was displayed in businesses in the neighborhood of Bronzeville, and everyone in the community had the opportunity to vote for which piece was their favorite. However; the evening served much more purpose than that. A student scholarship was given to one of CopyWrite’s very own, Arianna Theresa Shelander. The 21-year-old Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design was a featured artist in the artwalk and was completely shocked by her tear-jerking win. She received $500 as her award to continue pursuing her artistry and maintaining the balance of being a full-time mother but also an artist who has a story to tell.

Ari claiming her Student Artist Award alongside her son and artwork

“Art is my only way of coping. I don’t know where I would be without it. Besides my children, Riley and Huey, art is the only time I see light and positivity so clearly. When creating my artwork, I was inspired after birt,h seeing my stretch marks, a revelation came to me. They reminded me of roots underneath trees that give birth to life. Tonight’s piece is a visual representation of that. ” -Artist, Arianna T. Shelander

Artwork by Artist: Vedale Hill

For the last fifteen years, Bronzeville week has celebrated, uplifted, and anchored the acknowledgement of African-American cultu re, art, history, entertainment, and businesses. I don’t know how to explain it, but the city always seems to have a bright spotlight shining down as well as care-free energy around this time every year. Energetic and proud curator and visual translator of the night, Dante Nash, founder of AVRA,  wanted to keep this momentum going by concluding the event with a special thank you to a legend in our city. Another one whose hands help build CopyWrite to what it is today……drum roll please! Vedale Hill, professor at MIAD, teacher, and community leader, was given his flowers to close out the night. Hill has voluntarily taught and mentored countless youth who want to do something productive and motivating to themselves. Vedale is never one to boast; he always remains humble but has been on a mission that nobody talks about for over the last decade.

He left a message to all the guests in the building that I believe is my duty to share with you:

“Never change who you are, your morals, values, or purpose in life for anyone. Yes, you are all dope artists but now what do you do after you’ve learned you are dope? Our young brothers and sisters need to know how to never be taken advantage of and to start fulfilling our own communities by helping each other. I take on all responsibility when it comes to teaching and helping all generations of my people. We are all we have! Let’s not lose sight of that!” -Artist, Educator, and Mentor Vedale Hill

Comment down below which art piece or artist spoke to you the most in this article.Will you be attending the Bronzeville Artwalk next year? Share some of your favorite moments from this year’s celebration of Bronzeville week in our comment section of all our socias @copywritemag.

Support the artists with a follow on Instagram or purchase of their work from the event:

@savvybreaux_ 

@tierrabender 

@vedalehills_artstudio_mke

Lastly, go show love to Ari, the student artist award recipient of the night and donate what your heart desires after reading her story here:

Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW

Milwaukee in Motion [Dance Fest 2025]

Golden Hour Arrival

I arrived downtown just after 4:00 p.m the late afternoon sun filtering between buildings, music drifting across the lawn, and a real energy in the mix. Families, friend groups, and solo festival-goers converged; kids running and flipping around on the lawn while young dancers in dressed up or most of the pre show performers in all black warmed up in areas not so noticeable practicing on repeat for pre-show jitters. Across the street, a sobriety event unfolded quietly, while here, movement and community reigned.

Pre-Show Magic (6:00 p.m.)

The evening began with LunaBellas, whose graceful, Asian-inspired youth performance set a gentle, elegant tone. The energy built from there, ending with the Milwaukee Irish Dance Company their rhythmic, high-speed footwork instantly brought to mind The Sinners movie. The beat, flow, and precision pulled you in, and I couldn’t help but be in awe of all the dancers’ memorization, strength, and the exactness of every step.

Sweet & Salty Interlude

Before the pre-show, and again during intermission, I grabbed eats. First, brunch style festival comfort: a brat on the grill,  cheese curds, and mozzarella sticks. Then, candy bars and a brookie ( brownie/cookie)  perfectly timed between performances.

Mainstage Highlights (7:30 p.m)

Ailey II kicked things off with dynamic precision, followed by Water Street Dance Milwaukee, Madison Ballet, House of JIT, Visceral Dance, and M.A.D.D. Rhythms (whose tap performance was especially mesmerizing), and Chicago Dance Crash. Again, I found myself in awe not just of the choreography but of how perfectly it was memorized and executed, the sheer physical strength behind each movement, and the razor-sharp timing that made the performances so magnetic.

A Milwaukee Moment with John Ridley

Here’s a sweet festival memory: Before the pre-show, my father introduced me to John Ridley, the Oscar-winning screenwriter behind 12 Years a Slave. After the pre-show, I approached him again. I shared my role with CopyWrite Magazine and asked if he could offer feedback on my blog writing. That brief exchange between art forms, styles, and generations felt meaningful, as well as a memory worth remembering [for future reference]. 

Twilight Farewell (8:00 p.m)

I stayed until about 8:45 p.m., caught the opening wave of the ticketed performances. Something about the stage being outside just felt so theatrical and surreal. The architecture downtown also made these performances, and overall, the festival was a wonderful experience. 10/10 recommend, GO NEXT YEAR [2026]. 

This festival wasn’t just a series of dances; it was Milwaukee, alive and moving together in rhythm, strength, and precision.

xoxo Jazale Hill for /CW

Being The Kind of Artist You Want To See In The World with Rodney Johnson [Sptmbrborn] | | By /CW Guest Writer Jolee Mallmann

The first time I met Rodney for a portrait shoot, I realized I was working with a genuine individual, someone dedicated to their craft above all else. If you’re looking for another portrait session similar to the rest, Rodney just isn’t the photographer you want. However, for those looking for a photographer, artist and filmmaker with a true passion for their projects, willing to take the time it requires to develop original work, he’s the man you’re looking for. 

In his own studio, Rodney is a craftsman of lighting and color. He works precisely with lights, posing and color schemes in the studio in a way that the outcome can be seen immediately on camera. Having worked with Rodney outside of his studio for portrait events and my own short film, I realized how lucky I am and our community is to have an artist amongst us willing to share his talents for the betterment of the passions of others. It’s very rare that you find an artist with such a strong individual vision who is still more than willing to lend their skills to a project entirely separate from their own body of work. Rodney is more than an artist, more than a photographer or filmmaker. Rodney is Sptmbrborn and his work is selfless, one of a kind and bursting with confidence in creativity. 

If you had to describe yourself as an artist, photographer and a filmmaker, what would you want people to understand about your work most?

We're doing it all ourselves by any means. There's no conventional way of getting my message out there and it's made with a community in mind.

How would you describe the aesthetic of your work?

Intuitive and surreal. Imperfect and genuine.

What projects are you currently working on?
My solo gallery and a few art books! Getting back into my graphic designing bag. I want to make posters.

What's your favorite part about being a photographer and artist?

Bringing people into my world; Sharing the experience of creating. I work with so many people that aren't artists at all and it inspires me.

Who are some filmmakers that have significantly influenced your work?

Edgar Wright, Ben Stiller, Sam Raimi, Wes Anderson, David Fincher, David Lynch, Ari Aster, Robert Eggers. Too long of a list to be honest. I draw a lot of influence from everything I consume though. Try to be intentional about what you watch.

How has your art evolved over time?

It's grown in depth. My motivation lies in a curiosity to figure something out. The better the tools I've gotten, the more attention to stuff I can kinda pay, and it shows.

Where are you from? Do you feel like your community influenced your work as an artist?

I was born in Gary, IN but I grew up here in Milwaukee. My work is mostly inspired by the people around me. There is such diverse talent here that lends experience to consume. How do you not exchange for that?

Where do you like to find yourself on set the most, what is your favorite role as a filmmaker to play?

I enjoy being a gaffer. I've only been that or a cameraman on sets. 

What are some lessons you’ve learned as a photographer and artist you’re willing to share with our audience?

Don't be afraid to take a risk. Print your work. If you like it someone else will. Embrace the energy around you. 

Find more of Rodney’s work:

Instagram/Threads/X/VSCO @sptmbrborn 

Print Shop sptmbrborn.darkroom.com

Website sptmbrborn.xyz

---

Into independent film? Want to learn more?

myah - “ Glitter “ [Music Video]

myah’s new song” Glitter” feels so much like the soundtrack to a summer you swore would be carefree, yet somehow got real. It gives The Summer I Turned Pretty with a little Euphoria energy. Very dreamy yet nostalgic, and JUST the right amount of MESSY!

It’s catchy, flirty, and subtly emotional. “Is there glitter on your sheets?” isn’t just cute… It’s about the small things people leave behind. The kind of song you replay when you’re in your room thinking about somebody who still has a little hold on you.

Now the video? Feels like a binge-worthy show you watch in your big tee and fuzzy socks combos, along with some ice cream: Bonnie & Clyde vibe but playful with vintage outfits and chaotic getaway scenes. It’s fun but has a plot. 

Made me wonder… Does she have another video that connects to this? Like a series?? If so, you and I should be here for myah’s music and videos. She’s not just giving us a song, she’s giving us a piece of her imagination. Through every lyric, melody, and every scene in the video. 

This song definitely belongs in a Rom-com soundtrack,  like How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days. Trust me you’ll want to hear it on the big screens.

EXPERIENCE “ GLITTER” ( official music video ) by myah !

xoxo Jazale Hill for /CW

BLAX - Take A Picture

Nothing gives more 414 than a song that was made for the community and inspired by the memories of three significant figures who shaped Milwaukee’s music scene.

Milwaukee Hip-Hop artist, BLAX has released his new single ‘Take A Picture’ that mixes vibey OG hip-hop elements with lyrics full of powerful storytelling that will encourage you to call up your relatives and tell them you miss them. 

Just coming back from his tour across the West and East coast, “Take a Picture” was released on July 17th at midnight on all major digital streaming platforms by God Degree Media. The single holds a tribute to Milwaukee’s musical legends: Cecilio Negrón Jr., Twan Mack and Kid Millions showcasing a celebration of life and a meditation on loss.

This song gives reminiscent elements of “The Message” by Dr. Dre with a flow so mellow and rhythmic that made us bop our heads and lowkey want to shed a little tear. 

This is a single that really showcases the vibes that we love to see. Music as a form of expression and that gives emotion. We think y’all should vibe out and give it a listen! Y’all might need some tissue, though!

/Sky Abner for CW

YOU ARE INVITED TO BRONZEVILLE WEEK 2025 | GOOD NEIGHBOR COMMUNITY BLOCK PARTY