DEEP WITHIN THE PITS OF PASSION

A couple months ago, I experimented with D.I.Y filters for photographs, most specifically with reddish-pinkish tones. Why those colors? Because red is representative of what I thrive most off of: passion, love, the love for passion and the passion of love. I made a post with the a display of the photographs from the previous trial-session, but I can not locate it for the life of me. I may edit this post and provide you guys with the link, whenever I do find it. Anyways, I decided to repeat a similar project. My aim was to create a video along with this post, but I didn't receive enough feedback via Facebook and Tumblr to go forth with it. Until I do, I'm keeping this filter-trick a secret. If you are interested in knowing the details behind these self-portraits, email me or contact me via Facebook and Tumblr and I'll make it happen.


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VIDEO: SCIENZE x JOHNNY U. x "AUTUMN"

Filmed & directed by: Aaronisnotcool.

Aaronisnotcool delivers and never disappoints. Undoubtedly one of my favorite rising visual artists. This video just embodies the very essence of Autumn, as well as the song, and given that Autumn is one of my favorite seasons, I love it. Much love to ScienZe and JohnNY U. ScienZe's next project titled, "When Skies Fall" is due to be released on the 14th of November.
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MIXTAPE: QU'ALITY NYC x "THE MURAL"

Cover art designed by: Ricci Steez.
Safe to say, I have a lot of good music to catch up to. New York-bred, budding Hip-hop artist by the name of Qu'ality just dropped his 2nd mixtape titled The Mural. If you are familiar with my blog or Qu'ality, the artist, then you should know the release of this project was long overdue. I'm yet to listen to it, but I was once an avid supporter of Qu and the Still Dreaming movement last summer; I am well aware of his talent. Download and enjoy!
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CAMPUS-COOL x VOL.5: AS THE PLOT THICKENS

Well, the plot is not necessarily thickening, but I wonder: will I ever grow tired of sporting top hats? Though I am only in possession of two of 'em? The answer to the preceding questions just so happen to be probably not. But that is for the moment. After all, opinions hold no permanence. Anyhoo. When I created this segment, I had hoped that the title itself would be compelling enough and opt me into being prompt and timely with the posts. Well, it pains me to say that that hope is hanging on the thinnest thread, swinging from the weakest branch. These were taken a week ago. The night preceding this day--or dare I say--that day, the thought of transforming a shirt into a skirt overcame me and when that happens, I must obey. The next morning, I permitted the idea to transpire, and hence, this outfit. As most of you know, I hate posting long-shots, but these look better long, than wide.

VIDEO: L.A. x "SPITTING OUT BLOOD"

As seen on: MTV Rapfix and 2DBZ
Unfortunate how I am just getting around to posting this. I'm especially enamoured how underlying concept of this video was well-pronounced. In case you are unfamiliar, L.A. is a Brooklyn-bred female MC and undoubtedly has an immeasurable amount of talent bestowed up on her. This video is off of her newest project titled, L.A. Riots: Mental Fatality produced by Hippie Sabotage . I've been reluctant to share the project seeing as I am yet to give it a thorough listen. With L.A.: the beautiful, passion-filled, lyrically-inclined as well as budding Hip-Hop phenom, I don't expect nothing less. With that said, I think you guys should click the link and download. If you enjoy it, spread the word.
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VIDEO: TOMASZ KARCZ x A|W 2011 LOOKBOOK

Ever since I began the process of constructing this fall's photography project for Teffography, I put aside the search for inspiration scavenge for last. I delight in the perusing lookbooks, whether it be a video or a photo-set; I love observing and admiring the amount of creativity and innovativity that was employed in the creation of it. I'm aiming to launch the shooting process for my various projects at the start of next month. The idea was conceived towards the end of the summer and since then, I've been adding details, scheduling and handling the politics. I am really, really excited. This lookbook was brought to you by the creative genius of Tomasz Karcz, whom I just learned is a triple-threat: designer, hair dresser, as well as a stylist. Respect. Hope you enjoy experiencing this collection as much as I did.
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TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE

We strive and strive in efforts to attain our zenith. Whether it be defined by attaining success of whatever form, we strive. Through faith, we strive. Through love, we strive. A part of me wants me to delve into the entire story from its beginning, to its end, but I'm afraid t would be quite lengthy. I am aware my generation does not fancy reading, so why bother? About a month ago, I achieved a stride closer to my zenith when I was invited to visit Essence Magazine's office by a friend of my sister's. It was supposed to be sort of a meet-and-greet sort of thing with the who's who behind the collective genius of Essence, but the results of that day was more than I anticipated. I had the pleasure of meeting the photo editor, as well as the art director and a couple more amazing people. I was so well-received, I felt overwhelmed after spending three glorious hours. In addition to the introductions, I was photographed for "style file" as well as the hair-do sections (not certain of its title and also not certain when both are due to be published). That's primarily one of the reasons this was post was delayed; I was hoping to share the link or whatever, but I can't wait any longer.) In addition to the that, I also got offered a freelance gig for the street-style department. I was floored. Beyond floored, actually. I received a lot more great news--all in one day--phenomenal. Here I am, 21 years young--sharing a vicinity with some amazing women--whom are behind one of THE greatest Black-culture magazine and I'm feeling like I'm literally one step away. Not complacent yet; there is entirely a lot more work to be done. There's always work to be done. Complacency breeds failure. Truthfully: God is as faithful to you as you are to him. That was one of the first things I tweeted almost immediately after leaving the office. My strength of will and faith as well as my talent and presence equates my recipe for success. If you, the individual reading this, are in the process of attaining your brand of success, do not give up. You are usually closer than you think. I specified it as "your" brand because it is entirely up to you to design your own brand of success. Pursue it so diligently that everything you do, results in a greater you. Giving up is an option, but should seldom be your desired choice. Anyways, I digress. After the meeting, I had to celebrate and I did so by shopping. I met up with Johnny to sail the streets of SoHo in search of thrift stores and what not.




Sorta-kinda turned into a mini-photo-shoot; I'll post the rest of the photos at a later time. I need you to indulge in the news above before permitting anything else in.
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VIDEO: VISIONS OF VISIONARIES x ERYKAH BADU

Erykah Badu, also known as Queen Badu to me and most, is an energetic force whom I desire to meet and engage in a love-filled-embrace with. Certain artists, simply judging by the depth of their essence, compose my elite list of most-desired public-figures that I wish to make their acquaintances; Erykah Badu sits at the top of that list--along with Jill Scott, Mos Def and a couple more others. Her responses mirror my insights on facets of art, creativity, love and life in general. She recognizes herself as a perpetually evolving force, and that I can relate to. Opinions hold no permanence. In terms of self-expression, my creative prowess was deterred and stifled by the overly judgmental atmosphere of middle and high school. Not that it was entirely a bad thing. I'll have to admit that undergoing a sort of social-vacuum only heightened my sense of creativity up until its moment of complete revelation. Sincerely delighted in this.
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CAMPUS-COOL x VOL.4: DEAR WATERMELON SUNDAE

Growing up, I was definitely girl. As time progressed and adventurous spirit grew, my tomboy aspect began to reveal itself. Partook in a plethora of rough-housing, all thanks to my senior sister directly preceding me. Our adventures were endless. Fast forward to the current state of things: my style is a harmonious integration of both dynamics and the factor that inspire me; both directly and indirectly. Less a sense of style, more of an expression of self-realization, really. I believe I photographed these a week ago. As you can see, I am blatantly still obsessing over this black fedora.

I was fixing my collar in the photo to the left; that is not a pose. Super awkward, though.




I should probably post this on my lookbook. Eh.

TEFFILOSOPHY VOL.8 x THE ESSENCE OF SUBTLETY

Dwelling deep in the era consumed with dreamers and dream-chasers, the spirit of competition is undoubtedly at an all time high. Egos at war, the power of vanity places spells upon the souls of those who are most open to it and all-in-all, a generation collectively on a quest for relevance. I respect the spirit of a hustler that dwells in the element of subtlety. For example: The Weeknd's movement is subtle, yet progressive. Right along with Jesse Boykins III's romantic movement. What I admire most in others is their ability to impact without speaking, create without falsely clinging to the idea of grandiosity and elevating without seeking the destruction of the progression of others. Oftentimes I am compelled to watch incessant declarations of "I'm a boss. Making moves outchea" or some variation of that statement slither down my timeline and news feed. If you are indeed making moves, you need not speak on 'em, but rather act and let your audience see. "The strong move in silence". I'm a stay-in-my-own-lane kind of individual. I seldom seek the company of others. I don't look to others to measure my level of success. You shouldn't think to measure your level of success in comparison to others. My chief concern is superseding the achievements of the person I was yesterday.
Subtlety in business: Another eye-sore I tend to witness often is the art of name-dropping. I observe people's comfort with residing in the shadows of someone whom they perceive to be at a higher level than they are. How do you expect to be great while living in the shadow of someone else's greatness? You are failing miserably if you delight in doing so. Complacency breeds failure. Stay in the shadows long enough and you'll grow to blend in. Step out and stand strong.

VIDEO: KENDRICK LAMAR x "TAMMY'S SONG"

Directed by: Jerome D.
Great video for an equally great song. I still have Section 80 in heavy rotation.
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MIXTAPE: TYGA x WELL DONE VOL.2

Ever since the tragic death of my iPod, I've seldom been in the presence of music. Ha! Well, not really. Just haven't been around desirable music. I've been anticipating the release of Tyga's Well-Done Vol.2 upon hearing "SnapBack back". Mind you, it's been two months. Lol. Oy. Anyways, the content of this mixtape is synonymous to the effect of crack to a fiend in the 80s. Watching an artist's growth enhances your interest in all that they have to offer; Tyga has indeed transformed tremendously since "lime in the coconut". He deserves to be awarded with due respect and recognition.
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CAMPUS-COOL x VOL.3: ROSES SET ABLAZE

Just took this a short while ago. Unfortunately, my tripod is no more. Lol well, let me kill the melodramatics. It's just sort of impaired. I could fix it, but I haven't the time, nor strength at the moment. Perhaps, over the weekend. Anyways, I had to resort to taking some photographs with my buddy's MacBook. Besides, I just created a vlog about nothing and deemed it convenient to utilize the photobooth. The quality is really great. As I expected. I have a really bad habit of not being able to multitask in terms of eating AND using the computer. I'm 33 kinds of ready to round up this post, eat my Chinese food and watch cartoons. No homework today.







Mind you, I have about a week's worth of "campus-cool" shots to post. What a slack, huh? Yeah, I know.
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AUDIO: THE GREATER THAN WEALTH [GTW] x "AUGUST"

Beyond suitable for your everyday-morning-playlist along with Blu and Nia Andrews' "my sunshine" and, of course, The Weeknd. Sets a fine tone to the start of one's day. Love, peace and respect to the amazing The GTW for this amazing track. I've been meaning to share it with you guys for some time now. Enjoy.
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VIDEO: T.Y.B.R. | FRENDY LEMORIN x JONATHAN BRIU [TRAILER]

"Your best company is yourself; if you can't be with yourself, you can't be with other people."

For those of you who are unaware, T.Y.B.R. is an acronym for Frendy Lemorin's docu-series titled, "The Yellow Brick Road". T.Y.B.R. is Frendy's platform which he uses to highlight great acts and talents. Jonathan Briu has to be my favorite so far. After watching this brief, yet beautifully-detailed trailer, I can't help but think that Jonathan and I share some common philosophies. As most of you should know, relatability enhances the appeal of an artist, despite their field. I am particularly fond of his philosophy which declares: "the living are a rare breed of the dead". That's--just--beyond brilliant. He is seemingly in possession of an amazing spirit. Press play and gather your own conclusions; I'm almost certain it'll mirror mine. Maybe afterwards, you, the readers, can anticipate the release of the episode in its entirety. Love and respect to both Frendy and Jonathan. Like-minds, much like magnets, tend to draw towards each other; in this case, with these two young-gifted-beautiful-souls, the product seems beyond promising.
Tune in to www.ThisIsFrendyLemorin.net and FrendySays to stay updated on his amazingly commendable work.
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VIDEO: A$AP ROCKY x "PESO"

Directed by: Abteen Baghari
Firstly: this video was so tastefully-done. Each scene complemented the essence of the song. Secondly: this track has been on repeat since the video dropped about a month ago. I enjoy A$AP Rocky's music. It's strangely alluring that he's Harlem-bred with a northern-southern integrated sound, stirred with an Old-school-west-coast appeal: the perfect blend, if you ask me. Man, Harlem hasn't conceived such promising talent since Dipset and my homie, Rich P. The plus side: I hear A.$.A.P. is an acronym for: Acquiring Status and Power; I love that.
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TEFF, THE DON vs. STEELO GREEN

Steelo Green is juat another one of my newly adopted aliases. I took this photographs some time in the summer. I had to have been in the midst of stress to rummage through my suitcase, as well as my sister's closets in an attempt to construct a neat outfit to photograph. Despite the fact that I am wearing trousers in these photographs, it was wicked hot that day--do not be fooled. Unfortunately, I did not capture that much shots. After, say, maybe 6 money shots, I felt the heat creep into my skin and induce an unspeakable amount of discomfort.

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VIDEO: ARAABMUZIK x FOOL'S GOLD BBQ [LIVE]

via BarrelHouseBKLYN.
This is so incredibly ill. I've played this back countless times. This video is my first brief introduction to Araabmuzik's musical prowess.
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AUDIO: KID CUDI x "ASHIN KUSHER"

This song has been stuck in my head for the past month. Cudi's "Legend of Mr.Rager" was an excellent album. I'm especially fond of how his flow sounds a bit like the Notorious one, B.I.G., on this track.
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FEATURED ON: VICE MAGAZINE + F.A.E. BLOG

A while ago, I was out in the city, photographing whatever captured my interest. I believe it was on the same day as I took these. Shortly after taking those photographs, the photographer that accompanied the models asked to take a photo of me 'cause he like "my look" and I obliged. He gave me his e-mail and I failed to inquire about this photograph--that is-- until this mini article was brought to my attention by a compadre via Facebook.

See, this is why I curse Facebook and the fact that it enables its users to assume whatever they name they see fit on a week-to-week basis; I'm not sure of the name of the young lady whom asked me if she could post my D.I.Y. skirt on her blog a short while ago. (As seen in this post.) I love the mini write-up for three reasons: the love, precision and acknowledgment.

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VIDEO: STALLEY x "POUND"

Directed by: Walu
Listen to the words. Turn it up. Let the bass consume you. Short story: I bumped into Stalley at Fort Greene fest this past summer in BK. Didn't approach him 'cause he was engaged in conversation with someone else, so I simply obliged his presence with a smile after a brief moment of eye-contact. I had only heard one of his songs prior to this encounter, so there really was no point in me approaching him. I was simply acquainted with the face and the name. After hearing some of his songs, I now regret not doing so. Eh. Enjoy.
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CAMPUS-COOL x VOL.2: GARDEN OF HEDONS

Tooting my own creative horn when I state, I am so clever. Garden of Hedons--Hedonism--not to be confused with Heathenism--is defined as the pursuit of pleasure. The title of this post is undoubtedly a name fit for an electro-pop band or maybe Indie-pop. That's it: I'm gonna start a band. Who wants in? I digress. Forgive my world play on the "Garden of Eden" if you are an overly devout Christian. Moving on--fourth day of class, I believe this was. Gorgeous weather that day, the swelling on my knee had grown barely noticeable. I celebrated by wearing shorts, of course. As gorgeous as these shorts are, I've only worn 'em 3 times. This being the third time. Wish i had more interesting details to share from this day, but my memory fails me. On to the photographs:

hit the jump to see the rest of the photographs. (:
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VIDEO: RICH P. x "DENIM FROM PARIS" | FREESTYLE

Rare that I believe in someone else as much I do myself, but then there's my dear-friend, Rich P. Press play and find out why. Charisma, presence, flow, delivery, swagger, lyrics: a recipe sure to possess the hearts of many. Next year belongs to him.
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VIDEO: NAKIM x MICKEY FACTZ x CURT@!N$ x SMOKE DZA

"Swervin'" (remix), filmed and directed by one of the greatest visual artists: Slick Jackson.
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A 1000 WORDS x VOL.16: RENAISSANCE-BREEZY

I almost immediately find myself in deep-passion-filled-lust with men in possession of an artistic prowess. Now, present me with a man of man talents and I will drown in lust and love. As some of you may know, given the gravity of your knowledge of my blog or of me, I am a big fan/supporter of Chris Brown. Yes, I pledged allegiance to "team-Breezy" prior to Chris regarding himself as Breezy. I grew aware of his talents in other facets of art as time progressed and only deepened by admiration of him. Considering I haven't spent that much time on the computer, perusing random sites that capture my interest, I haven't much kept up with www.mechanicaldummy.com, Chris's website. I wrote that like him and I are on first-name-basis. Well, we ought to be. Anyways, I was just on there delighting in his artwork. Safe to say I am deeply in love. These are three individual paintings titled:


1.) "The pig"
2.) A collaborative work between him and Kid zoom, untitled.
3.) "Hellno Kitty"
Hit the jump to see the rest or simply click here. Respect and love to Breezy.
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CAMPUS-COOL x VOL.1: THE DELIGHT OF FIRST DAZE

Daze--days--see what I did there? I am exactly two weeks deep into the fall semester and I can boldly state: so far, so good. I pray it stays that way. The delight of my first day of classes was sligtly tainted due to the fact I got bit by some nefarious bug and the result was a swollen knee-cap. Seriously, who's familiar with the 2002 rendition of the movie "Mr Deeds"? Remember the scene where the reporter claims she's a nurse of some sort while they were in a diner in his hometown? And some old guy says something along the lines of, "what do you suppose I do about this?" and proceeds to pop what appeared to be a ball of extra-overly-elastic-skin? Or was it his kneecap that he snapped? Lol. Well, the swelling on my knee was the size of that elastic-skin-whatever. I had to resort to wearing pants. In the heat. But, it wasn't that bad, I suppose.





Hit the jump to see the rest of the photographs.
P.S.: I plan to wear this hat until my heart retires. I've always wanted a practical black fedora and I finally have it. I had all these outfits all clustered in my imagination and they are delighted to be set free. Lol. Overly delighted, actually.
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