VIDEO: SCIENZE x "ENJOY TONIGHT" | PROD. BY KING I. DIVINE

Filmed & directed by: Aaronisnotcool.

Scienze, a Hip-Hop artist out of Brooklyn, whose amazing music I've featured on here several times, teams up with creative genius, Aaron yet again. I am always deeply enthralled with the product of their collaborative efforts. I Love the energy and the seemingly unending array of beautiful faces. This track, titled, "enjoy tonight" as disclosed by the post-title, is off of Scienze's upcoming project titled, "Divine ScienZe", due out on the 13th of March. In the meantime, click here and here to get a taste of his organic, substantial and most essentially, lyrically-enriched sound. Peace.
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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.25 x SHAPE-SHIFT

[14-2-12] - St.Valentine's Day.
I recall waking up and entertaining thoughts of incorporating the seasonal nuances of pink or red, but immediately felt overcame by distaste. "It is a commonality," I thought to myself. Besides, I have grown to reject the commercialised design to most holidays. The ritualistic buying of the flowers, candy, jewelry and other materialistic gestures is borderline sickening. Materialism has assumed an ominous status in most Western cultures, namely North America seemingly, and it is painfully evident on holidays such as these. People forget it is a Saint's day -- a Holy day. I suppose it is still Holy in the sense that it celebrates Love and Love is a religion in itself - an art of God. Do not get me wrong, I Love that it is centered on Love, but as always, Love, like most religions, is thoroughly abused by its practitioners.

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TEFFILOSOPHY VOL.15 x "THERE ARE PEOPLE"

There are people - there are people who do not Love - there are people who do not Love because - there are people who do not Love because they fear - there are people who do not Love because they fear pain- there are people who do not Love because they fear pain in the form of the deepening of their Spirits.

There are people - there are people who judge - there are people who judge because - there are people who judge because they are bound - there are people who judge because they are bound to the constraints of criticism.

There are people - there are people who seem - they are people who seem because - there are people who seem because it is less easier - they are people who seem because it is less easier to the grandeur of being.

There are people - there are people who are blessed - there are people who are blessed to have known - there are people who are blessed to have known Love - there are people who are blessed to have known Love like Love is to be known.

There are people - there are people who do not know - there are people who do not wealth - there are people who do not wealth because - there are people who do not know wealth because they are blinded - there are people who do not know wealth because they are blinded by riches.

There are people - there are people who Love - there are people who Love because - there are people who Love because they know - there are people who Love because they know nobody ever has as much power as the one who has Love.

There are people - there are people who fear - there are people who fear less - there are people who fear less because - there are people who fear less because they know - there are people who fear less because they know Love.
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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.24 x CHORUS OF COLOUR

[23-2-12]
I most recently vowed to return to the poetic side of things. My Love for writing has its origin in my niche for story-telling. It came to evolve and as did my work, acquiring sort of a symphonic, poetic accent, then onto journal-writing. I can write in a poetic manner, but can't seem to develop things further from then on. I usually want for a poem to be as lofty as any prose or any disposition I am capable for producing. Perhaps, it doesn't have to be that design. Perhaps, I can create my own. Who knows? But, I digress.
I started a poem titled, "Chorus of colours" yesterday which is what prompted me to title this post as such. Also, 'cause of the vividness of this orange; the mere sight of it overwhelms me greatly. It's just...so much fun!

In case you've ever wondered, my writing-style is similar to that of a sculptor's; I gather a thick herd of words, then begin to carve at it. When the poem is close to completion, I may share it on here or save it for my book. I say "close to completion" 'cause in my eyes, art is never complete.

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VIDEO: CHILDISH GAMBINO x "HEARTBEAT"

Directed by: Kyle Newacheck.

Childish Gambino releases his first visual from his most recent project title, Camp. Which I am regretfully yet to give a good listen. In fact, I am yet to listen to it. I am almost embarrassed to profess that I have heard, but 3 tracks, but that's besides the point. I love how the visual reflects the mood in the lyrics. Literal, yet entertaining. Peace.
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A 1000 WORDS x THE (MUSE)UM PROJECT | MOLLY SERIES

Jewelry by: That's Mona!
As I have previously stated, I am beyond thrilled to have kick-started this project with a familiar face - an old friend, Molly. The further I delve into it, the more likely you, the viewer, are to see more faces you are familiar with.

I have decided to shoot mostly in my city - New York. D.C. is definitely a desired location to shoot, as well as California and possibly, Georgia (ATL) and Texas (San Antonio | Houston). I will be in New York from April 4th-10th. I have shoots scheduled for that mini-vacay, so I'm posting this to grant inquisitive minds a bit of insight on my current endeavors and projects and so on.

I realise I have not posted much of my work on here lately, besides my self-portraits, so I decided to post some newly-edited shots from the Molly series. Upon editing these, it reinforced the significance of colour in a photograph. Altering the colours in a photograph can shift its mood dramatically. As evidence, I included unedited versions of each photograph under the jump; observe and absorb. Peace.
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VIDEO: SENE x "POH IT"

Directed by: Aaronisnotcool.

I learned of Brooklyn-bred artist, Sene. a short while ago and already, I have grown captivated. I entertained the thought of reaching out via e-mail to learn as much I could, but no; I wanted to share the wealth of knowledge and I wanted to do so now -- as soon as humanly possible. However, I did take it upon myself to search the web and gather intelligence on him. Overflown with excitement, I was, to learn he's thrice the talent, being comprised of rapping, musical-producing and acting talents. "He is a solo artist, as well as the front man to the fusion group, Recess."

Though I went on to explore his music further, I decided to go with the song and visual that captured my initial interest. I immersed into "Exit, us". Which I believe to be a play on the word, "exodus" - as in the terminology that depicts the Israelites' egress from Egypt.
I am not fond of comparing artists considering that first and foremost, artists assert their individualism most strongly through their various means of expression. In other words, they are individuals first, artists second. However, I must say that, to me, his flow is a bit reminiscent of the early works of Kanye West. I love that he has substance. I am definitely enticed by his play on words, flow as well as delivery. Sene seems like an artist I can grow to appreciate more and more as time lapses. Like, Kendrick Lamar. And, that's saying a lot.

The fact that this video was directed by one of my favourite visual artists, Aaron,certainly tops the cake. Each hyperlink is different; click and learn about Sene. Peace.
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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.23 x CHORUS OF EXPRESSIONISM

[4-1-11] I come from a generation of individuals who disdain the notion that struggle dictates fortune. A people who want their fortune and want it in the most expedited method possible. A generation overly populated with individuals who desperately wish to seem. Nowadays, a beautiful someone regards themselves as a model, someone in possession of a camera regards themselves as a photographer; the list is endless. With the growth of this behaviour, comes a dramatic depletion in the overall appeal of art and its actual practitioners - artists. We are evolving, yet dissolving. Titles that once held merit now seem mere. All these events have prompted me to denounce these now frivolities and assume one title: the expressionist. I am not a photographer, nor am I poet, nor am I writer, nor am I philosopher, I am an expressionist. I have various means in which I assert my artistic prowess.

-I actually posted these photographs on the day they were taken, but came across them last night and decided to redo it. Different edit, different mood, different message. Peace.

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VIDEO: DISTRICT HOMME 2012 | V.02 LOOKBOOK [B.T.S]

Filmed by: The Video Mouse.
Two of my favourite things engulfed in one: fine tailoring and fine filming. I grew up with a father who exercised his versatility through several business ventures. One of which was owning a boutique that catered to the culturally-enriched as much as it did its opposite which later on spun into the creation of his very own clothing line. Over the years, every suit I have ever seen my father in was tailored to his fitting, evolving from a strong taste in English to Italian cut respectively. The man who wishes to marry me has some incredibly large shoes to fill.

I came across this video while aimlessly perusing the web, it triggered some childhood memories of being in my Dad's shop and became overcame with a compelling need to share. If you are an admirer of tailoring as I am and wish to learn more about L.A-based haberdashery, visit District Homme. Enjoy.
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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.22 x ERODED LOVE-DOMAIN

[15-12-11]
I initially intended for my Look-book titles to be parallel with that of its corresponding blog-post, but failed here seeing as I already titled a post "C'est mon temps".

I got into photography as another means of expression, as well as my indisputable Love for self-portraits. That's seemingly what awarded my work/blog popularity from the get-go. However, I've been looking into the directorial aspect of photography as well, hence, why I have had others photographing me since mid-2011. It's an interesting thing. I know how particular I can be when I am behind the lens. I have learned that I can be thrice that when directing someone else - someone else that is void of any knowledge photography-wise. I anticipate every aspect of each photograph--every detail; the angle - will it make me seem too short? Or perhaps, mak me appear disproportional? What aspect of my surroundings do I want to include in the frame, the depth of field and so on. Anyone who has ever had the displeasure of photographing me professedly finds it as agonising as it is enriching.

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A 1000 WORDS: STREET ETIQUETTE x "CROWNED" | EDITORIAL

Photo by: Andre of AbstractElements.

Joshua Kissi: From the early stages our website has always reflected on a historical context, and I think in the digital age due to everything happening in such realtime we sometimes forget which moments would be classified as something worth noting. I think this is a topic most guys stray away from, or wouldn’t want to lose their pretense masculinity pondering too much about. Besides receiving quite a few emails daily questioning our grooming techniques we decided to organize a shoot, with a few familiar faces and some new ones. How important is ones hair to their personal expression and style? I feel there’s no need to reiterate the answer to that question after viewing...more

Joshua Kissi of StreetEtiquette partners up with Andre of AbstractElements. to create a most extinguished editorial titled, Crowned. Crowned - placing emphasis on the significance of a hair-do and its history, namely that of African origin.

Speaking as one who has grown into the fondness and advocacy for individuals whom embrace and flaunt naturality, and as a proud being of African descent, I commend the underlying message behind this project immensely.
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VIDEO: CASHTRO CROSBY x "INTRO TO RASTA MONSTA" | SHORT FILM

Filmed & directed by: Slick Jackson.

This short film was shot in New York City for the intro to Cashtro Crosby's latest project, "Rasta Monsta". You can download the album & the chopped, not slopped version [here].

Filming and directorial talent, Slick Jackson majestically transitions from music videos to live performances and, now, short films. I must admit I am impressed with his versatility. After all, what dictates an artist's ability more fluently than the ability to adjust - to be versatile?

PA-bred rapper, Cashtro Crosby provides insight on the makings of "Rasta Monsta", sails the city streets and immerses himself into New York culture. Enjoy; peace.


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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.21 x A CALCULATED EVIL

[9-2-12] In moments where I am in want of a shopping-trip, I find myself retreating to my second closet in search of items I haven't worn recently. That search lead me to this lovely Silence + Noise shorts I bought about two Summers ago from here and my first bright-coloured blazer.

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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.20 x FLUID ROSE

[4-2-12] I wore this out Saturday night, but had a friend photograph it on the same day as the post below. It has been a while since I went out, exercising my femininity as well my first time in a Spanish club. To know me is to know my disdain for wearing heels. To know me is to know that I hold the conviction that style equates comfort. Not that heels can not be comfortable, but in my overall experience, they're a small serving of Hell. These, however, are stupid comfortable. As far as my time at the Spanish club goes, pleased to admit it was a fine experience music-wise, but the drinks were terrible. Peace.

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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.19 x BLOOD-ORANGE

[7-2-12] I pride myself on my ability to unveil dimensions of the self on a day-to-day basis and I equally admire that quality in others. I constructed this outfit in the canvas of my mind the preceding night. As much ease as this look may seem to possess, I did not factor in the fact that wearing another skirt underneath would secure it more tightly. I apparently miscalculated the extensions of my hips. Good thing I had a skirt in my bookbag. Don't ask.

Photos were taken by a good friend. She's exceptionally skilled at taking directions. Thanks a lot, Shannon. Peace.

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VIDEO: KENDRICK LAMAR x "LOOK OUT FOR DETOX"

Filmed by: APlusFilmz.

Kendrick's cover-track titled, "Look out for detox" over one of my favourite Childish Gambino tracks, "you know me" off of Culdesac is literal lyrical-insanity. Kendrick released this track over a year ago shortly prior to the release of (O)verly (D)edicated. It displeases me to admit that I am just now gaining familiarity with this track. This would've been the moment my Love for him began.

I wonder what prompted him to release a visual for it after all this while. Whatever it was, whatever the case, I am overflowing with joy.
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WE ARE AS VAST AS OUR IMAGINATION

[6-1-12] What was initially intended to be an outfit-post was thwarted by the conjunction of I and my baby-brother's impatience. For one, it was cold-as-fuck and two, I was in a hurry and last and certainly not least, I was livid. So much so that my every attempt to mask it, failed. This was the only photograph that came out remotely decent.

When I got into the city, I met up with some friends and saw the film, "The Devil Inside". I must admit I was severely disappointed. From the title alone, I expected its content to be quite frightful; I played back images of myself jumping erratically and wailing in agony, but it displeases me to say it was quite the contary. Perhaps it's because I anticipated the fear that was to be induced prior to each scene and conditioned myself accordingly. It had been my first time seeing a horror film in the cinema since "Paranormal Activity" -- now, that was scary. So frightening that my date was digging his claws into me as though it would grant him instant alleviation from the fear that overcame him. I thought it was my place--the place of the lady -- to display such hypersensitivity. Oh, well. Peace.
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AUDIO: STALLEY x "BCGMMG"

Stalley is seemingly the only member of MMG in possession of a foreign sound. Different works to his advantage--enhances his appeal, if you will. Which probably played a key role in Rozay's decision to draft Stalley into team MMG.

I am still anticipating the release of "Savage: Journey to The American Dream".
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VIDEO: B:SCOTT x FASHION SHOW | V10 - FALL 2011

Filmed by: Royal Interactive.
Cloaking the faces of the models is an entirely brilliant concept. A short while ago, I devised a concept similar to this which I still plan to execute with some major employment of my own creative prowess.

This doesn't only generate and encourage a majestic sense of equality within the models, but it speaks unfathomable volumes of ingenuity and mystery. Notice how it draws more attention to the garments as opposed to the model's face; I enjoy that.

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TEFF x COMPANY: SOHO-SAILING x VOL.3

[27-11-11]. It was an unusually warm day in New York; the presence of the Holiday season was apparent with the scent of the crisp Autumn in the air along with the sights of nuances of greens and reds that clothed the passers-by. November -- one of my most favourite months in the year. Not because my birthday just so happens to dwell within it, but for various reasons I'd rather not bombard you with. Not that the reasons are abundant in nature, but they're enough--they're enough for me to reserve my sentiments for the month of November.
These photographs were taken directly after this photo-shoot by Kadeem. That I wore an overwhelming look of dismay on my face is because, well, just click the preceding link and find out. Also, click here to see more photos from this day.

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CAMPUS-COOL VOL.18 x SAME SONG, NEW CHORUS

[30-1-12] - Garments can be just as dynamic as the human-mind. Or perhaps they may seem so to a mind that recognises its dimensions and permits it to transcend inward-outward. Whichever ideology you are in favour of is besides the point.
Remember the orange fabric I wore as a poncho a couple of posts down? Which I also wore as a skirt in this post? I've succeeded in morphing it yet again.

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VIDEO: KID CUDI x "DAY N' NIGHT" | CROOKER'S REMIX

I favour this remix over the original version. Cudi is one of those artists that diversifies his music so well, you would not dare grow tired of him.
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