Gallery Night @ /CW Creative Studios + Shop
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ThriveOn King Ribbon Cutting Celebration | A local inspiration, a national model, and a dream come true
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The ribbon cutting at thriveon king
“A local inspiration, a national model, and a dream come true.” - John R. Raymond, Sr., MD
At CopyWrite we respect a BOLD statement and we value an observed truth. So today when John R. Raymond, Sr., President and CEO of MCW, delivered remarks on his perspective of ThriveOn King collaboration, we could only agree that its fruition and active arrival has indeed been an inspiration, a layered blueprint, and a collective dream that has often been deferred.
We were invited to attend the June 6th, 2024 ribbon cutting ceremony for the ThriveOn King Collaboration development [2153 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. Milwaukee, WI 53212] as a neighbor [/CW Creative Studios + Shop is literally right across the street if you did not already know], Art Review Committee members [because the creative work must speak to US & for US], and community stakeholders [our investment into this community is apart of the collective fabric that turns these SPACES into PLACES]. With those many facets of stewardship as a guiding force for our communal labor, we have been quite critical of the goals and aspirations for the new soul of the old Schuster’s & Gimbels building.
An equitable approach to development must be anchored in reality. What are the issues? Why do they persist? What are viable solutions and the resources needed to sustain them? These are the questions that are never easy to answer. However, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation (GMF), the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), and Royal Capital’s “joint vision for Milwaukee '' have created a physical manifestation of what that vision can become.
“We all share a vision where neighbors are healthy. . .opportunities are equitable. . . a better Milwaukee”, said Ellen M. Gilligan, current President & CEO of Greater Milwaukee Foundation. The idea of a “Better Milwaukee”, can always be neutralized by the historical divide that most tend to harp on as a sign of stagnation in our cities’ complex infrastructure but in the case of the ThriveOn King development, “better” is collaborative truth. Where community is engaged, philanthropy can serve, and that service becomes mutually beneficial in building a place where we all thrive holistically.
Ken Robertson, Executive VP, CEO & CFO of GMF, also shared his appreciation to his collaborators [including the community] and commitment to the project beyond the near completion of the commercial building component. “We could do better, we could live better . . . projects like this enable us to get there”. The momentum is an absolute must to propel a high-profile partnership into something that retains a positive legacy and lasting impact in the microcosm that is Milwaukee.
The stipulation of communal progress treads upon counter acts to gentrification and welcomed entry into a community that already holds historical and cultural value. Alderwoman Milele Coggs, made it known in her speech that the site we all were currently inhabiting was not just a happenstance of real estate availability. She listed an FBI facility, the welfare building [even as her familial namesake], and NO studios as other inquired possibilities. “It could have been but we fought against it”, she said. And those possibilities change the trajectory of so much more.
artist vedale hill /w pops [art installation]
As always when we approach these historical moments of ribbon cutting and “professional hobnobbery”, we report back to our readers as active advocates of the arts, culture, and to local elevation. We watched as Vedale Hill, one of the artists selected for ThriveOn's permanent collection [and an intimate supporter and partner of our work at /CW], created his art installation slated for the historic display windows on the north side of the building. We discussed the importance of having his work be seen as “a cultural relevance of “Play” for the African American Community in Milwaukee. . . These pieces are meant to depict a physical manifestation of hope for young Black kids while elevating this nuance of culture to high art. This notes that while the practice of play may be the dream there are other professional routes that may encapsulate that passion”, as stated in his concept description.
artist whose art was selected to be a part of thriveon king: vedale hill, Isaic Pulliam, Brad Anthony Bernard, Reynaldo Hernandez
“This is more of a homecoming than an arrival for me. Having this art here at ThriveOn reaches back to why I became an artist in the first place. It's already there. I’m just encapsulating it and reframing it so that our realities are validated not as just historical asides but as impacting proponents of the here & now. How I view myself as an artist is more akin to a diamond cutter than an inventor. I’m just making a value and beauty association that is already a part of the natural folds of the community I am a part of”, Vedale reminded us.
And these narratives run deep.
/cw on the job | Editor-in-chief Lexi S. Brunson
I am keeping a few subtleties close to my chest to preserve them for future conversations about the ThriveOn King, collaborative community development, and the art that will show who we are on walls that are professed to be a part of generational progress. As I sit in my studio & look out the window I can see the new era of progressive proliferation and I will be keeping a close [and neighborly] eye on how we THRIVE together.
Lexi S. Brunson | Editor-in-Chief /CW
Quad MKE | Paving The Way For The Next Generation
/This article has been prepared by a /CW “Teen” Summer Intern.
For the sake of the new generation, generations to come, and those who have been working hard to pave the way, Quad MKE is partnering with Running Rebels, SHARP Literacy, The BrandLab, and JobsWork MKE to enhance sustainable careers within the city of Milwaukee. Partnering together right-where the people “that's what it takes to build community” Says Joel Quadracci, Chairman, President and CEO of QuadMKE.
More Info on Quad
Quad (NYSE:QUAD) is a 3 billion dollar experience company, who “has a soul and believes in commitment”, says Joel Quadarrci. This company works to connect Milwaukeeby providing sustainable careers, education, and strengthening the community. The collaboration with community leaders enhances QUADs primary goal, which is to eliminate barriers that make it hard for citizens to be successful. Quad recruits, train, and even help expand their existing employees' understanding of challenges these recruits face. From a printing company to a marketing company, Quad is still on a long term road of shaping and investing into populations that need a more creative approach. This will broaden their company as a corporate stakeholder, as well as help partnerships triumphing in this market.
Quad MKE’s Open House
Located in the Century City Tower[4201 N 27th Street], QUAD MKE’s open house is hosted. It was full of appreciative and humble go getters from our city. Vibrant and spacious artwork by Vedale Hill [Who is my wonderful father], and Reggie Baylor [featured in Issue 20 of CopyWrite Magazine] have given many a sight to see. Even Joel Quadarrci, had to bask in the way the artwork creates the positive aura in the space, noting that the investment in the art applications is just another way to appreciate the people who help shape the creative landscape of MKE. Another wonderful sight to see was the diversity in the building, localist, artists, and leaders coming together as one for the better Milwaukee.
pictures vedale hill intilation at quad | /CW images
You're probably wondering, with so many impactful people at this event, “WHERE THE FOOD AT?”.Yes! There were wonderful food and beverages provided creating a value dynamic of “breaking bread” that we love so much at /CW. There were which a variety of options such as, spinach and artichoke dip, Buffalo Chicken dip, Nashville Hot Chicken slider, Golden Barbeque Chicken slider, Veggie Vinaigrette cream cheese pizza, and some celery [one of my veggie favs] to be on the healthy side of things. Last but not least, DESSERT! Brownies and cookies kept us there feeling up on sweets and a business resource group SUMOS Uno had yummy churros [I had about 3 of those] bringing that “Big C” Culture for the win.
Many wonderful speeches were made by partners of Quad about what's next, barriers that will be challenged, and how they will “change the face and voice of the marketing industry” and “exposing the young to creativity”, Kelli WIlliams, The BrandLab CEO assured. Joel Quadicci was sprinkled with many thanks and a framed art piece by Reggie Baylor, which about 60 kids thanks to SHARP Literacy, participated in making. Those little niceties matter, because who knows maybe one day those kids will be sitting in the boardroom at QUAD headquarters helping continue the legacy. . .
But, WHAT COMES NEXT for QuadMKE?
I hope there will be more interaction with the people. We don’t want the disconnect that comes with corporate dollars from the people who do the labor. We want to see bright futures where people can get training that builds carriers. We want CEO’s, like Joel, to come to see the people where they are and be transparent in how we all help make millions.
It’s a reality we are all ready for and together we know it can happen.
Jazale Hill /CW Summer Intern
Juneteenth Celebration Press Interview w/ Vedale Hill
//CW Editor-in-Chief, Lexi S. Brunson spoke to lead artist for the Juneteenth Mural in Milwaukee WI, Vedale Hill, on how art elevates the holiday & its history.
/CW
Juneteenth Milwaukee Golden Anniversary! Sponsored by Northcott Neighborhood House!
/*information provided by Elizabeth Coggs
Mural design created by artist Vedale Hill
Juneteenth Milwaukee Golden Anniversary. . . It's Countdown Time. Join Us for Juneteenth this Saturday!
Who: Tony Kearney, Executive Director of Northcott Neighborhood House, Artist Vedale Hill, Employ Milwaukee Earn & Learn Summer Youth Employment Fair, Juneteenth T-Shirts Go On Sale June 15, 2021!
What: Juneteenth Pageant Director LaTonya Lucas announces the date for the crowning, on June 16, 2021-4pm, Juneteenth Muralist, Vedale Hill will talk about the mural; Chytania Brown, President and CEO of Employ Milwaukee Earn & Learn Summer Youth Employment Fair speaks, and the Juneteenth Golden Anniversary T-Shirts Go On Sale June 15, 2021.
When: 12 p.m. on Tuesday, June 15, 2021
Where: Northcott Neighborhood House, 2460 N 6th St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
(Milwaukee) June 15, 2021 - Northcott Neighborhood House (NNH), Executive Director Tony A. Kearney, Sr. and Juneteenth Pageant Director, LaTonya Lucas are announcing that on Wednesday, June 16, 2021, at 4pm; the Juneteenth 50th Anniversary Pageant Winners and their Court will be announced at Northcott Neighborhood House. Also, in attendance will be the 2020 Juneteenth Pageant winners:
Little Miss Juneteenth Avana Kelly
1st Runner-up Tehana Titus
2nd Runner-up Madelyn Taylor
3rd Runner-up Isharra Collier
Miss Juneteenth Day Ayanna Bennet
1st Runner-up Adaobi Nnamuchi
2nd Runner-up Aniyah Lobley
Mister Juneteenth Jr Christian Wilder
Mister Juneteenth Reign Riley
1st Runner-up Stephawn Easley
2nd Runner-up Isreal Akinsanya
3rd Runner-up Shaun McFerrin
The Juneteenth 50th Golden Anniversary mural will be designed by Vedale Hill. The mural will reflect the Juneteenth historical attributes of the holiday and will be painted on Locust and king Drive intersection. Vedale Hill studio is in the Bronzeville area, and he is known for working with youth and bringing out their creativity and talent in their artistic design. Mr. Hill said, "I am excited about doing a mural that will allow everyone to get involved it's intergenerational and community involved."
Ms. Brown of Employ Milwaukee is bringing the Earn and Learn Summer Youth Employment Program to the people. Ms. Brown shared, "when I became CEO, "I shared I wanted to expand on what Employ Milwaukee is doing and this is one of the initiatives, taking this Earn & Learn to the youth."
Lastly, Juneteenth T-shirts will go on sale Tuesday, June 15, 2021, this is another way people can support the Juneteenth 50th Golden Anniversary. There are two styles that you can:
The white t-shirt with green ink is selling for $12.50 or 2 for $20
The white t-shirt with the green and gold ink is selling $15 each or two for $25
Stop in at Northcott Neighborhood House, 2460 N. 6th Street and pick up your Juneteenth T-shirt swag for you and your family and show your pride.
The Juneteenth Day celebration is this Saturday starting with the parade at 8am, watch it live on TMJ4. Join us for a family fun day at Juneteenth!
- Elizabeth Coggs 414-372-3770 | ecoggs@northcotthouse.org
SHARP Literacy presents the Caravan of Curiosity
/* information provided.by SHARP Literacy via Vedale Hill*
Four stories. One amazing journey.
SHARP Literacy’s A Novel Event is hitting the road with an all-new, interactive virtual format. Every Wednesday in February 2021, guests can tune in for a once-in-a-lifetime performance featuring one of our storytelling rockstars.
Join us for one, or even all four sessions, and customize your experience with a backstage pass featuring interactive VIP perks (delivered right to your home or office!) that take the experience to the next level. Here’s what’s included with each VIP ticket:
Donald Driver: An autographed copy of his book The 3D Body Revolution: The Ultimate Workout + Nutrition Blueprint to Get Healthy and Lean
Vedale Hill: A Helping Hands art kit with wooden hands, brushes, paints and instructions
Rob Mendez: A baseball cap with his mantra – Who Says We Can’t?
Chef David Magnasco: A pasta kit with pasta, sauce and olive oil. Upper-level donors will also receive 3 splits of wine - one red, one white and one sparkling.
click here for more information
Original Art, T-Shirts & More !!! #TestUpMKE [a creative campaign] w/ CopyWrite Magazine
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“LET ME GET UHHH COVID TEST & A LARGE COKE.” - is just one of the culturally triggered lines in the verbiage and design for #TestUpMKE [ a creative campaign], that you have seen circulating. The original art created by MKE notable artist Vedale Hill, was created and curated to capture the “urban” community of MKE which includes Black & Brown people and the systemically disenfranchised.
The designs play on the identity and cultural cues that are imbedded into our everyday lives and our nostalgia. Whether that be the 90’s Solo cup colorway, the gas station/take out food “Thank You” bag or the gold ornamented grill of a Black Male icon. It’s there. It’s for us. It’s by US [no FUBU tho.]
As COVID-19 continues to dominate our lives we want to make sure that the knowledge that can help save our community is communicated through methods we already respect & dabble in: ART, FASHION, COMMUNITY & CULTURE.
[Want to learn more about Covid-19 Testing? Visit https://www.testupmke.com/ ]
Like these #TestUpMKE campaign T-shirts? Well you can be #SociallyResponsibe and fly by Pre-ordering your favorite design on our online store.
/CW
#TestUpMKE [a creative campaign] w/ CopyWrite Magazine
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Pandemic Pending...
Covid-19 testing is a must to stop the spread. Check out this [creative campaign] for Test Up MKE, a Covid-19 testing, information, and support platform based in Milwaukee, WI.
https://www.testupmke.com/
Using creative means to get the word out to the URBAN, authentic, "minority" and creative community, we partnered in a collaboration that involved local artists, graphic designers, screen printers, photographers, models, journalists and health partners. [We used Covid-19 safety methods, because we are trying to liveeeeeeeee B!]
This campaign features t-shirt designs that include verbiage and imagery that not only reaffirms the importance of Covid-19 testing, but also pays homage to cultural cues, lifestyle and satire. With a graphic tee, a poppin' mask and of course a fresh pair of kicks, we can make being #SociallyResponsible fly!
Spread knowledge. Spread creativity. Stop the spread of Covid-19 by getting tested.
Learn more at https://www.testupmke.com/
/CW
Juneteenth Black Lives Matter Street Mural in MILWAUKEE
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Many Street murals have been popping up around the country to express solidarity with the Black Lives Matter call to action. Today on this Juneteenth of 2020. Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, invites our Milwaukee community to join Lead Artist Vedale Hill, in a Black Lives Matter community art mural.
We had a chance to talk to Vedale as he was preparing for todays Juneteenth event. Here is what he had to say:
“The Black Lives Matter Street Mural is a public art piece commissioned by the City of Milwaukee, funded by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, supported by West Care and the local Walmart. I was selected as the Lead Artist to program and produce the mural with the help of other local artists. During these difficult times in our country, I feel that it is a necessity to help the community grow, while also understanding the beauty of the moment. As a long time advocate for community development, I believe that at this moment we are no longer knocking at changes door but instead, we are kicking it in. The location in its self is ideal because it serves as a double entendre of meaning. It is not only literally an intersection but is an intersection between the police and the community that they have taken an oath to serve.”
As a local media outlet that is all about community and creative culture, we are proud to see a visual representation of the rhetoric we have always lived by. Please join and be apart of this historic event.
(Don’t forget your mask! #SociallyResponsible)
BLACK LIVES MATTER.
/Lexi, Editor-in-Chief CW
88NiNE Presents - Invisible Lines: Episode One
/Our partners at 88Nine have recently released a project that "is the culmination of a year of work from production team Nate Imig, Laura Kezman and Vianca Fuster", which they are calling Invisible Lines.
In this series, they hosted several listening sessions with people of color in the Milwaukee community letting them tell their stories.
Episode One: Coded of Invisible Lines, is actually in part a story from a major CopyWrite supporter, who actually appeared as the featured cover artist for CopyWrite Magazine Issue Seven: Vedale Hill and his brother Darren Hill.
As the city helps document "new" narratives, I think it is important we all listen and see through the invisible lines. S/O to the 88Nine Squad. We think this is a super dope project.
#SupportTheLocal
/CW
