BREON JENAY

2012-02-12 12:55:16.0

 

PHOTO: SALOME MANSKA

 

VIMMAG: Greetings Breon! First of all, how are you? I have seen your performances in The Chairs and with TSTMRKT and most recently you've had a recent foray into the world of Vegas poetry, having performed at Painters and Poets and at Yayo Taco for Vegas Slam. How did reading your poetry go?

 

BREON JENAY:  Hello Jorge! I am very well. The poetry readings were awesome! I had never read my own stuff up until a couple of weeks ago, it was such a blast and I got first place in the Haiku Slam; which was unexpected but equally rad. 

VIMMAG: You were in a lot of plays in 2010. From "Great Falls", to Arthur Miller's "The Crucible." How do you find the time? 

BREON JENAY: 2010 was absolute madness. So I had a clone of myself made and she is actually doing this interview right now. 

VIMMAG: Just what exactly is TSTMRKT? And how did it come about? Personally I found the show hilarious. The situations and the people the three of you played, it was bizarrely entertaining.

BREON JENAY: TSTMRKT is an assemblage of sound and sketch. Basically, the setting of a scene is established through sound, and all sound is pre-recorded in real time. During a performance the pre-recorded sound is played, and it's up to the actors to match the timing perfectly regardless of audience reaction or zombie outbreak. I'm not exactly sure how long it's been around, but I remember my first time seeing a TSTMRKT performance was in 2008, and it was hilarious. I saw another performance with Ernest Hemmings and Alex Olson in 2010, and the two of them made for an absolutely dynamite team. So when Ernest asked me to join in the summer of 2011 I was like, "Hell yes!" 

VIMMAG: You graduated from high school in Vegas? Were you active in theater while in high school? What was your first acting experience like?

BREON JENAY: I was born and raised in Vegas, and graduated from Sierra Vista HS in 2005. I was very active in theater in high school, it was pretty much the only reason I went to class. My first acting experience? In a word: embarrassing. I had nearly paralyzing stage fright for the first 6 or so years of my acting career. Back then it was hard for me to eat or sleep in the days leading up to a performance. I still get nervous, but thank Jebus those days are over. 

VIMMAG:  Is there any dream roles you would like to do?

BREON JENAY: This is gonna sound cheesy, but I really want to play Juliet before it's too late. I've also always wanted to play Ophelia. As far as I know, there isn't much Shakespeare going on in this town right now. So, if anybody is reading this and wants to get down on some Hamlet, hit me up! Also, I've never done any Tennessee Williams, and I'm completely in love with his stuff.

VIMMAG:  What piece of advise would you tell someone who is interested in pursuing theater?

BREON JENAY: Keep acting and be prepared to make sacrifices for your dream. 

VIMMAG:  Having read your poetry recently, would you be interested in having your own poetry feature sometime in the future?

BREON JENAY: If I had enough poetry to feature I would say : absolutely yes. But at this point I've only got about 5 minutes of useable material. However, I had so much fun at the Haiku Slam that I'm considering hosting a monthly haiku slam of my own. I'd have to check with the poetry community and make sure they'd be cool with it. It just seems like a lot of fun. 

 

VIMMAG:  Now let's pretend I am James Lipton and you are on "Inside the Actors Studio." Lipton always asked the same ten questions, which are: 

-What is your favorite word? -
-What is your least favorite word?
-What turns you on? 
-What turns you off? 
-What sound or noise do you love?
-What sound or noise do you hate?
-What is your favorite curse word? 
-What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
-What profession would you not like to do?
-If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?

 

BREON JENAY:

Favorite Word: "Spooky"

Least Favorite Word: "Panties" 

Turn ON: Sense of humor, wisdom, talent. 

Turn OFF: rudeness, indecisiveness, laziness. 
Sound I love: The ocean
Sound I hate: Slurping. 
Fav. Curse word: Ultra-Fuck. 
Profession I would like to attempt: Rock star, or playwright. 
Profession I don't want to attempt: Anything that involves working in an office. 
What I want God to say: "Let's eat cookies!"

 

VIMMAG:  How would you describe your poetry? What topics do you dwell upon, does it all depend on your mood? 

 

BREON JENAY:  I'd describe my poetry as spontaneous... And sparse. I don't write very often, but when I do I tend to write about my dreams. 

 

VIMMAG:  Are there any plays forthcoming that you will be in or is it still to soon to announce?

 

BREON JENAY: We've got a TSTMRKT show coming up on the 17th at the Artifice. Lots of crazy stuff going on in March, but I think it may be top secret at the moment. 

VIMMAG:  I am looking forward to someday interviewing Ernest Hemmings and Alex Olson, the three of you do make TSTMRKT really work. What is next for the three of you?

 

BREON JENAY: The show on the 17th promises to be our biggest one yet. Then we plan on taking a break from the sketches to work on a full length show that Ernest has written called "Bro". It will offend people, myself included. 

VIMMAG: I can relate to your nervousness up on stage. My first time reading my poetry was in 1996 at Espresso Roma and I had to force myself to sign up on the list. But now, its become quite an addiction being able to perform your emotions and feelings for the audience, something that to this day I try to perfect. 

 

BREON JENAY: Nervous energy is an important thing for any entertainer to possess. Being too comfortable onstage leads to boredom for the performer and therefore the audience. So being nervous has it's perks. And it's always a pleasure to hear your poetry, Jorge! Keep up the good art.



VIMMAG: The Smith Center is opening up this year. Are you looking forward to it? I hear they are going to have a great theater and having gone to a preview presentation of the new Children's Museum, I can say it is going to be amazing, the kids are going to get their own professional theater as well.

 

BREON JENAY: A children's theater is the best idea ever. I'd love to get involved in that somehow. Working with kids is awesome, they are the best type of audience and actor. They have no qualms about becoming completely immersed in a different world and they don't mind at all if they look silly while doing it. 

VIMMAG: I'm curious, what is it about the character of Ophelia that attracts you to her? In the beginning of Hamlet she is left bewildered and heartbroken and several of her portrayals have shown the extent of her madness. I can picture you though singing songs while handing out flowers.

 

 I don't know... I've wanted to play Ophelia since I was a kid, Hamlet is my favorite Shakespeare play, and I like the idea of being able to go a bit insane onstage. I wish I had a deeper more philosophical answer to give you, but that's the truth of it. 


Thank you for interviewing me Jorge! I understand you're keeping very busy. Congratulations on all your hard work!

 

BREON JENAY has recently joined the cast of Tony and Tina's Wedding and will make her debut Sunday, February 19. She can next be seeing in TSTMRKT at ARTIFICE on 2.17.12, RSVP here: http://www.facebook.com/events/266541320082884/

 

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breon jenay / tstmrkt / actor

THE LIST: A.J. MOYER

2012-02-05 14:30:56.0

Welcome to our new column: THE LIST.  Each time, we will be presenting a local artist who will get to make a list of random things that they are currently into at the moment. 

Here now is A.J. Moyer, Slammaster, co-host of Talky Trees, Advisory Board member of The Las Vegas Poets Organization, and all-around poet extraordinaire!

 

8 Things I’m Into at the Moment - A.J. MOYER

  1. Cracked.com – Even though their commentary can be crass and off-putting at times, I learn something almost every time I read a new article. Learning things while laughing hysterically is priceless.
  2. David Foster Wallace – I’ve been a big fan of Wallace since I first read him, but just recently got my hands on a lot more of his essay work. His perspective within his narratives, his writing style, and his use of footnotes as a tool to break up the narrative and keep the reader engaged all come together to make his work incredible to read.
  3. Jeanann Verlee’s Racing Hummingbirds – Every time I read a poem in this collection, I have to set the book down and let what just happened marinate. I don’t think any other collection has so consistently swept me off my feet page after beautiful page.
  4. The Hold Steady – The best bar band in the world. Craig Finn’s storytelling and gravitas got me hooked on this band a few years back, and there still isn’t a week that goes by without me listening to at least one of their albums start to finish. They’ve built this arcing narrative over all their albums, and they self-reference like no one ever told them it’s rough on new listeners.
  5. John Bouttè – This man’s voice is like ear caramel. I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone sing as beautifully as John Bouttè does. I’ve been a fan of big brass and Dixieland jazz since taking a rock history class in high school, but finding this guy through David Simon’s Tremè was like a dream come true. All the pomp, all the strut, and now, triple the soul.
  6. The Wire – Speaking of David Simon, The Wire is the greatest show that has ever been on television. Raw, honest, gritty, and with full respect to the grey areas of a life we pretend is black and white, it’s a miracle of storytelling and filmmaking all the way.
  7. Doctor Who – I told a girl once that we couldn’t date any more because she wouldn’t watch Doctor Who. She thought I was joking. I wasn’t.
  8. The Wave (German film) – It’s been a long time since I saw a film that made me think about what my own reactions to it said about me as a person. It’s based on a true story of a German teacher and an experiment he did with his class, and it’s available on Netflix.
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the list / aj moyer

Kari O'Connor

2012-01-08 02:12:09.0

 

 

 
 Local poet and author Kari O'Connor, who for the past couple of years has hosted and co-hosted poetry readings around town 
 and has lead one of many poetry slam teams is now co-host of the Seldom  Seen Poets Peetry Reading at Sunrise Cofffee Co. 
 
VIMMAG: You've been part of the poetry community for a long time, which venue that you have hosted do you prefer the most?
 
KARI O'CONNOR: I'm not saying this because I'm hosting there now, but Sunrise Coffee probably has been my most preferable venue-- just because the owners, Juanny and Josh, have been really good to us.  Not only have they suggested themed nights, but they occasionally participate at the open mics and stay open late for us.  They've advertised us on their neighborhood flyer campaigns and just have been all-around great people.
 
 
VIMMAG: Where do you see the Seldom Seen Poets Reading going into 2010?
 
KARI O'CONNOR: I hope that we have more features-- both out of town and local.  This year we've had quite a few folks come in a read their short fiction which has been really great to see as a fiction writer myself-- I hope to see more fiction writers come in a read their work.  And, of course, I hope more musicians come to visit.  We've had too few come through this year.
 
 
VIMMAG: Who or what has been your biggest inspiration for your poetry?
 
KARI O'CONNOR: I can't really point to one person or thing, because I go through these cycles where I'm fixated on one thing and then I move on to something else. I listen to a lot of music as well as read both page and watch performance poets, so I get inspiration from all over.
 
 
VIMMAG: Let's talk about your poetry. Name three of your favorite pieces and tell us about them.
 
KARI O'CONNOR: That's a difficult one.  One of them is "A Name"-- it's one of the few that I've memorized that I still perform occasionally.  I wrote it not too long after National Poetry Slam in 2004-- there wasn't a team that year and Andy Hall and I just went there to volunteer.  I vaguely remember writing it one afternoon at the Coffee Bean.  It was one of those poems that just happened. The other two that I like were written last winter.  I had a smattering of love poems I'd written over that time, just to try something different.  One is called "winter morning" and it's just a simple poem about waking up next to someone you love.  The other is called "Water" and it's about someone being taken with a merman.
 
 
VIMMAG: Just how annoyed do you get when people request that you read "Viggo," your poem about Viggo Mortensen? How did that poem come about?
 
KARI O'CONNOR: I joke that I'm highly annoyed by it, but it's minor... mostly it just takes a lot out of me to perform it so I don't like to do it that often.  (That and having someone yell "O Viggo!" at me in Austin made me a little embarrassed.)  It took a long time to get to the point writing it down, mostly because it's based totally on an actual dream I had and I wasn't sure how I wanted it to sound. I wrote it one morning when I had some downtime at work. I had this voice pop in my head and wrote it down in a quick 5 minutes. It will haunt me forever, it seems.....
 
 
 
 
Every Wednesday at 7:00pm, Hannah Marisahl and Kari O'Connor host a weekly, all-ages, free open mic at Sunrise Coffee Co. at 3130 E. Sunset Rd. Ste. A (formerly It's A Grind and Mojo Coffee), between Pecos and Eastern.
 
All styles of poetry and spoken word are welcome. You can read whatever you want.  They also welcome fiction readers, stand up comedians, monologuists, musicians... anyone who has something to say.
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poet / past interviews

Megan Milligan

2012-01-08 02:06:25.0

 

 

Megan Milligan moved from Oklahoma to Las Vegas in 1992. She's written poetry & song lyrics since graduating from Cheyenne High School in1993 and been involved in the local poetry scene on a regular basis since 1999. Together with Mark Snyder & Danna Nordin,she co-hosts Word UP!, Las Vegas' longest-running weekly poetry reading. Megan describes her poetry as the "musings of a Desert Rose," the struggles of love, life and being a survivor.
 
VIMMAG: Greetings Megan, I've known you for over 10 years and throughout that time you have been a co-host with Mark Snyder of the perennial local favorite, the Word-UP! Poetry Reading. The reading has gone through various incarnations. What do you think has been the highlight of hosting such an event?
 
MEGAN MILLIGAN: I would definitely say the fact at how much the poetry scene in Las Vegas has blossomed over the years.  I started taking part in the local poetry scene hardcore in 1999 at Danna Nordin's Perks reading, though I'd been writing and going to readings now & then at places like Espresso Roma some years before that during my ungrad days in journalism at UNLV.  When I first got in the scene, I heard classic Vegas poetry names like Bruce Isaacson, Dayvid Figler, Renee Christy (who actually gave me & Mark our start at hosting poetry in November 2002), among others.    And now to be counted among that peerage is truly an honor and a blessing.  How many people can say they've been blessed and lucky enough to be a steady part of something for so long,? 
 
The biggest blessing of all though has been all the wonderful poets and friends I've met over the years.  If it hadn't been for a chance thought that maybe I'd want to take a shot at hosting in 2002, I wouldn't have met Mark, who's become one of my oldest and dearest friends in Las Vegas.  Friendship like that is rare. 
 
I've also learned a lot that helped me grow as a writer and hope to continue learning and growing.  And to know that some of what I've written has touched, helped or inspired others, THAT'S the biggest personal validation and motivator for me to keep going.
 
 
VIMMAG: Besides being a poet, many people may not know that you are also an artist. Can you give us your perspective on how you approach each field of creativity?
 
MEGAN MILLIGAN: Both:  Everything I do artistically is from my heart.  Everything I have has a little bit of me emotionally, spiritually and mentally invested in it.  I know a work, whether it's poetry or my art & photography, is finished when I have that internal "click" of "Ah!  This is it!", and sometimes its final form is not always how I originally envisioned it.
 
Poetry:  I draw a lot on my own and others' personal experiences and feelings.  I hate putting labels on things, but if I were to put a label on it, I think a lot of it would fall under the category of "confessional" poetry:  love, relationships, personal struggles, etc.  Not all of it is autobiographical, but all of it has some nugget of reality in it, whether it's a dream I had, or my or someone else's feelings or experiences.  I'm also trying to write more poetry based on my observations and external surroundings.  I call those my "Slices of Life" poetry.
 
My art:  I still have A LOT to learn in this area!  Most of what I know & do in digital and traditional art is self-taught, and I'm rank amateur compared to a lot of others I know.  I love experimenting with new techniques I learn along the way.  And sometimes I just fly by the artistic seat of my pants.  The art itself though:  some of it is dreamy and abstract.  Some of it is very specific and deliberate (lines, clear-cut images, etc.).  Or it's a combination of the two.  It depends on my mood, which as a Cancer, is always changing!  :-)  I dabble in Celtic art & calligraphy a lot.  The intricacy of celtic knotwork and deliberate forms of writing require concentration.  Like mandalas, they're very meditative.  I also create digital art inspired by songs I listen to.  They're kind of my visions of what a music video might look like in a single snapshot.  I also love photography.  Much of my photographic works are nature-based:  landscapes, flora, fauna, etc.  I wish I had more time and $$$ to do it again, but at the moment, I have some equipment to replace first.
 
 
VIMMAG: One of the main attributes which I think has added to the success of the Word-Up Poetry Reading is the weekly rotation of poets who have featured at your reading from time to time. Could you list some of your favorites and tell us why.
 
MEGAN MILLIGAN: Man, you're asking me to try to remember back eight years!  Don't know if my brain stretches back that far.  LOL  Anyway, we've had a LOT of good features over the years.  I always love watching Bruce Isaacsons and Renee Christy (both of whom just featured in the last few weeks).  Griot Nation, both as a group and as solo performers, also definitely stands out, with their blend of hip hop & poetry.  Nick Marco's Medicine Man Show performance is always a must-see when he performs it at Word UP!.  Andy Hall is also a favorite when we can get him to feature on his visits back home during school break.  I just love all the people who've featured for us over the last several years because they represent such a wide variety of what Las Vegas has to offer to the poetry and cultural communities at large.
 
 
VIMMAG: Let's talk about your poetry now. Name three of your favorite pieces and tell us about them.
 
MEGAN MILLIGAN: LOL  I don't think I could get away with answering that question without mentioning the piece that haunts me to this day:  "Forgotten."  It was the first real slam poetry piece I wrote back in 2001.  I performed it at the 2002 Slam Nationals in Minneapolis.  It centers around my observations, working in local TV news, about several incidents of kids being left in hot cars for whatever reason during the summer.  A lot of people consider that my "signature piece," if I were to have one.
 
I have several other poems that mean a lot to me, but I think two of the poems closest to my heart at the moment are ones I just finished recently.  "Pigpen" (a new slam piece) and "Tending The Garden" both kind of chronicle what I've been through personally the last couple of years and a lot of the personal growth and new outlook on life that came about as a result.  
 
Those two pieces, like some others, I've written over the years, come during times when I seem to be, I don't know, just channeling Something from Someplace Else.  I write them in a hurry, take a look at them later when I'm done, and kind of think "I wrote THAT?"  I truly believe sometimes my higher power guides me at times like that because He feels I have something to say that could benefit someone else.
 
 
VIMMAG: You and I have somewhat witnessed the birth and continued rebirth of the poetry scene. It is strange how it fluctuates constantly, poetry readings are always evolving and changing, coming and going. What do you think of the current Vegas poetry scene?
 
MEGAN MILLIGAN: I love it, hands down.  The Vegas poetry community seems to ebb and surge over time, and right now I think it's a great time to take part.  There are plenty of chances and choices for poets and poetry-lovers to partake of what Las Vegas has to offer with six active readings in town: Word UP!, Seldom Seen Poets, Human Experience, CommUNITY Spoken Word, S.O.A.P.box, and the Poet's Corner.  There really is something for everybody in different parts of town right now.
 
Interviewed by Jorge Lara Santiago for VIMMAG
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Word-UP!
 
Mark Snyder, Danna Nordin and Megan Milligan host poetry every Tuesday night at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, 4550 S Maryland Pky across the street from UNLV at Harmon Ave. Open Mic & Features every Tuesday!
 
7pm
 
Hosts: Danna Nordin, Megan Milligan, and Mark Snyder
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poet / past interviews

DEA

2012-01-08 02:04:04.0

 

 

Dea is a local fusion belly dance troupe based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. Consisting of five fantastic ladies, Dea are: Missy, Jackee, Nikki, Steph, and Zen. Their troupe name is derived from the Latin word Dea meaning “Goddess”. "We felt this was a perfect name for our troupe as we all seek to honor and respect the feminine divinity in ourselves and hope to inspire that in other women around us,"
 
 
VIMMAG: Greetings Dea, you were all recently named 2010's 1st place Tribal Fusion Ensemble in Wiggles of the West. Can you tell us about the competition? How was the experience for each of you? 
 
STEPH: Wiggles of the West is a West Coast belly dance competition that has been ran by one of our community leaders, Janie Midgley since 1996. It’s a very well established competition for belly dancers and includes competitions for traditional styles like Egyptian and Cabaret to modern interpretations like Alternative Wiggles and Tribal Fusion. It’s nice because the competition accommodates dancers of all skill levels and styles. We love the diversity of it! 
 
JACKEE: It was unreal for me to win my first competition. I thank Steph for including me on her creative ventures. 
 
MISSY: Competitions are nerve wrecking for all contestants I would imagine, but we were definitely psyched & were in high spirits the whole time more than anything. That mostly outweighed everything else!! We all were so excited to be together! We were confident that even if we didn't win, we would walk away with an incredible piece we could be proud of and those moments before we went on stage and when the winner was declared, we formed an amazing bond! 
 
 
 
 
VIMMAG: For those who may not know, can you all give us a bit of background history on how the Dea troupe got created? 
 
STEPH: Dea was something I wasn’t really expecting to create. I had a project for over a year and half for my choreography “Starstruck” by Santogold and I really wanted girls that could really bring out a robotic and popping stylization I wanted to fuse with belly dance. Zen and I of course were still training to attain this technical stylization that I wanted to display. 
 
I had heard about Missy and Nikki from my musician friends so Zen and I saw them perform at one of the NOISE events at the Aruba. After their performance, we both agreed that they could really do this choreography. We pulled them aside afterwards and I proposed the project to them. They we’re down from the beginning. I brought Jackee on about a month later for her potential and drive to learn. She had a natural talent with dance. After a couple of months, we really liked that we all got along really well and that all of us had something to offer to our group. From that day on, Dea was born.  
 
JACKEE: Sometimes the stars perfectly align, joining 5 souls through space & time. 
 
MISSY: Nikki and I were dancing together at a Noise event with our band when we were approached afterwards by Steph and Zen to work on a project with them. We were intrigued and soon began dancing and connecting when we got together. Jackee was a friend of mine and was there as well adding some flava to the mix and we had Dea our first award winning piece, Santigold. It was magic! 
 
 
 
 
VIMMAG: What were your backgrounds in dance prior to forming this belly dancing troupe? Influences? 
 
JACKEE: I grew up dancing to all styles of latin. I love music & can’t help but move when I hear it. In 2005, I was greatly influenced when I saw my first Belly Dance performance. Ever since, I have reached towards the dance form. Joining Dea has been the biggest step toward my personal development as a Belly Dancer. 
 
MISSY: We all bring something different to the table and come from different backgrounds. I think that’s what makes us so unique and diverse. I started with very traditional Holistic Belly Dance and than later began Expressive Yoga Dance which fuses Middle Eastern, Serpentine & West African dance. However, I love to dabble in a little bit in everything. We are constantly bringing challenges to one another and learning from each others styles! I admire and am influenced by all dance genres! 
 
STEPH: I’ve had training in Polynesian, Tahitian, and Maori island dances, and hip hop dancing as well. I’ve always hung out with dancers since middle school and I even tried my hand at break dancing a few times and realized that my arms were not as strong. However, my hips were thanks to my prior dance training hence my conversion to belly dance haha! So now I’m training in Suhaila format and American Tribal Style belly dance. 
As far as influences, I love the concept of challenging the natural movement of the body along with really becoming the music. I gravitate so much now to popping, locking, tutting, and a lot of hip hop dancing because of their vast abilities in movement are so unnatural yet extremely skilled that it trips people out. I also get other inspirations from other things I love like video games and comics. I thrive on tripping people out. Hell, I’d work in a haunted house if I couldn’t dance haha. 
I also absolutely commend the Jabbawockeez who are a very strong influence for me as well when I choreograph. I just dig people who can create a style of movement that’s un-natural and not afraid to be a little strange.  
 
 
VIMMAG: I have seen you all perform at the Gypsy Den at First Friday. Do you all have a memorable venue where you have performed or a memorable experience since you have been with Dea? 
 
JACKEE: Winning the competition for sure!!! It was the premiere of "Starstruck" 
 
MISSY: With Dea, the Wiggles of the West competition was definitely the most memorable venue! Not only was it an incredible experience for each of us individually, but as a troupe it was unforgettable! 
 
STEPH: We absolutely love the owner, KT and her boutique, the Gypsy Den. Her place has honestly become a second home for us in dance. The Gypsy Den embodies the “beautiful” for us. The diverse beauty in art, dance, music, and really cool vintage finds makes for a really good place for us to perform. People there accept us and love us even though we’re a bit odd. Her venue is always memorable to me. 
 
 
 
VIMMAG: So what's next for Dea? What would you all like to see in the future? Any general dreams and/or ambitions? 
 
JACKEE: I am confident that Dea will create many more pieces that will contribute to the evolution of Belly Dance.  
 
MISSY: The connection with my Dea sisters & performing is rewarding enough. We do this for the love of it! To travel and share it with the world would be outstanding and personally my own growth and development as a dancer is always desired! We have many great ideas in store. 
 
STEPH: I’m just cool with people appreciating what we do as dancers and creative artists. I hope Dea can offer a “breath of fresh air” to Tribal Fusion belly dance. The fusion that’s around nowadays is absolutely beautiful, fun, and creative; however I feel that the general style is becoming very much hindered. I feel newer dancers of our generation are becoming afraid to be different because it’s not what’s “popular”. 
 
My plans for Dea next year is a secret shh. But…. I’d like for us to one day have an opportunity to travel and perform outside the United States. I vote for Hamsterdam!
 
 
 
 
Here now is  the second part of our interview with Dea, featuring Jennifer Machado and Nikki Marzula! 
 
Dea is a local fusion belly dance troupe based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. Consisting of five fantastic ladies, Dea are: Missy, Jackee, Nikki, Steph, and Zen. Their troupe name is derived from the Latin word Dea meaning “Goddess”. "We felt this was a perfect name for our troupe as we all seek to honor and respect the feminine divinity in ourselves and hope to inspire that in other women around us,"
 
VIMMAG: Greetings Dea, you were all recently named 2010's 1st place Tribal Fusion Ensemble in Wiggles of the West. Can you tell us about the competition? How was the experience for each of you?
 
JENNIFER MACHADO: This was my first time entering a competition and I was very nervous, but excited at the same time. Those emotions along with the hard work we all put forward were the driving factors in our success, I believe we all inhibit a very pure view on competition, yes we wanted to win, but most importantly we were having fun and sharing this time with our dance community. It brought everyone together.
 
NIKKI MARZULA: Steph pretty much answered this question correctly with how long it has been around and who is in charge. Wiggles of the West is a competition as well as a weekend long convention that holds belly dance workshops...The Tribal Fusion Ensemble is a new category. Tribal Style dancing in general is new to the W.O.W. competition seeing that for many years, it was only a Caberet style competition and workshop.   As far as the experience? We all worked very hard for this, each one of us in our own way. Whether it was choreography, making costumes, practicing, or even being there emotionally for each other.... It's very rewarding to know that all of your hard work, time, and effort has paid off in the end.  For Missy and I we gained 3 new sisters!!  We entered as strangers and left as sisters, I felt, if we didn't place, we still won! We had an amazing dance and a new sisterly bond!
 
VIMMAG: For those who may not know, can you all give us a bit of background history on how the Dea troupe got created?
 
JENNIFER MACHADO: Dea is a beautiful creation that was formed by the love and admiration we all have for dance.
 
NIKKI MARZULA: ~Again..Love everyone's answers on this one!  ~All accurate answers!!
 
I was so comfortable where i was as far as who i was dancing with at the time. I was totally blindsided by Dea!!  It happened so fast!!  When i first contemplated the idea, i actually felt that i would dance with the girls every now and then, just for fun!!  A few of us did a gig at Gypsy Den (under a different name) and I thought i would leave it at that, until Steph proposed the Starstruck Piece to us. It was love at first sight. The next event was actually the competition.....What better place to premier a cutting edge dance?!!   The dance placed first Dea became a certified Troupe in my heart!!
 
 
 
VIMMAG: What were your backgrounds in dance prior to forming this bellydancing troupe? Influences?
 
JENNIFER MACHADO: I have been belly dancing for two years and performing for one year. Before my daughter was born I dabbled in belly dancing but not until I met Stephanie did I emerce myself in the art and culture. I give her a lot of credit because she and I are not only troupe member but dear friends. Along with the other girls in Dea we all have a connection with one another, which makes us sisters. Each of them has thought me new ways of movement and I am inspired by them on a daily basis. Of course I have looked up to Rachel Brice, Shuaila Salimpour, Carolena Nericcio and all the beautiful woman who have paved the way for this art form. But my greatest influence has to be my daughter, Jasmine, who shares the same love and passion for belly dance, I only wish to share this experience with my Dea sisters and Jasmine for as long as I exist in this wondrous life.
 
NIKKI MARZULA: Since the age of 3....ballet, tap, jazz, Middle School through College=7rs of drill team and pom pom line,  Post College=  hip hop, modern ballet, ballroom dancing, then of course I found belly dance and that's all she wrote!
 
 
 
VIMMAG: I have seen you all perform at the Gypsy Den at First Friday. Do you all have a memorable venue where you have performed or a memorable experience since you have been with Dea?
 
JENNIFER MACHADO: My most memorable performance has to be at Wiggles, I feel that we showcased all of our hard work and dedication to the dance community and were honored by the woman who we look up to. Along with our fellow dancers, we had a fantastic time watching everyone perform. But to me Gypsy Den is home, KT the owner has showed us nothing by love and praise and has been very welcoming to us. Every performance is special and I love and cherish each performance as a baby, we love it and it loves us back.
 
NIKKI MARZULA: Wiggles, of Course!!
 
 
 
VIMMAG: So what's next for Dea? What would you all like to see in the future? Any general dreams and/or ambitions? 
 
JENNIFER MACHADO: The light I feel that Dea shines will continue to be as vibrant as the wonderful woman who are a part of it. Each of us have dreams and ambitions, but Dea is our baby and we plan to nourish her with love, time, and dedication. Our dreams are limitless, every day we come up with new idea to propose and different ways to move. As long as I can dance and I am able to be a part of this beautiful art I will not stop trying to better myself for my troupe and our future.
 
NIKKI MARZULA: I know alot is probably expected of us, now that we are an award winning troupe But as far as I am concerned, I want every one to see the creativity we have to offer as well as the fun we are having as troupe sisters!!  We bring something  new and different to the table in the belly dance world, and i wana keep on bringing it!! 
 
 
www.troupedea.com
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dance / past interviews

ALEXANDER P. HUERTA

2012-01-08 02:02:48.0

 

 In 1996 Alexander P. Huerta took his first trip to the art store for paints, brushes and canvas. In May of 2001 he made a conscience  decision to consistantly give a truthful effort to his passion for creating art.  From this intention came  his "Great Art Adventure". Now in 2010, PeaceNart Studio is where he spends his days, being inspired, "Trying to inspire, meeting interesting, unique people and trying to evolve as an artist and a Human."

VIMMAG: You came from buying your first paints, brushes and canvas in 1996 to being the owner of the PeaceNArt Studio at the Arts Factory, within that  time period you  won 3rd place in
the Dish Inaugural Juried Exhibition Charity Fundraiser For Three Square of So. Nevada. Throughout that process, what has been the biggest lesson you have learned?
 
ALEXANDER P. HUERTA: The "Biggest Lesson" I Have Learned Is To Trust God. I believed in a higher power all my life, but, until I Trusted in that higher power, my life was not making progress, I was not evolving. In 2001 I was at "rock bottom, not caring about my existance, I had nothing but my thoughts. My thoughts led me to talking with my God. From that moment I have seen the "unfolding" of my "Art Adventure" ! Truth. My Art comes from the truest place. I have learned the Truth about Who I Am, What I Am, That I Am The Author of My Own Story ! I don't have let life happen, I create it !
 
 
VIMMAG: Your newest collection of artwork is called "Controlled Chaos Series 2," can you tell
us about the individual pieces and how it all came about?
 
ALEXANDER P. HUERTA: My "Controlled Chaos", Series 2 is the progression of a direction I started in early 2009. There are 26 pieces to series two.(series 1-26 also). I can tell you that every piece, of both sets, are about random thoughts.They start with spray paint, then drips of ink, grease pencil, ebony pencil, paint pen, collage, black sharpie, color pencil, help me ask my questions or give one of my theories about this thing we call 'life'.
    One Day,"Preview Thursday", December 2009, my friend and fellow artist, Jessica Gallindo, brought me a piece of thin wood, This piece was about 50"x40" and had patterns of red spray paint on it. I broke it in half to condense it's size for storage. Later that day, I had spare time before the crowd of peolple arrived, so I pulled out the first piece and told myself  I was going to "practice", Kind of doodle, not thinking to serious, just passing time. Those first thoughts went down and "Controlled Chaos" was brought into this world. The deepest, easiest flowing artwork that I have ever produced. The most creative outburst of my life.
 
VIMMAG: First Friday has come along way, what impact do you think your gallery and other venues have had on the local Vegas art scene?
ALEXANDER P. HUERTA:  I'm a self-taught artist, so all my opinions have been formed though my engaging with humanity and my life's experience. Impact on the local art scene can happen for any person that gives a truth filled effort, started with the intention to give and not take. Our Las Vegas Arts District, is "My Art Scene" ! I am blessed to be able to go to PeaceNart Studio everyday that my God allows me to wake and live my life as an artist ! I have been doing that since Oct. 2008, in that time,  I know of the personal inspiration that it givesto me and how in turn I get the opportunity to inspire others. I try to make an impact, one day at a time and one opportunity at a time. I try to let my every thought , every action lead me in a "Northerly Direction"(north principle) I trust in doing that I can make a positive impact on the city that has taught me about ArtNlife. ITrust My Art !
 
 
VIMMAG: Do you have a favorite or memorable collection of yours or of someone else?
ALEXANDER P. HUERTA: "Controlled Chaos" is the artwork that has effected me the most to this point. Not only because Artistic Designations, out of San Mateo, Ca., bought 12 pieces at one time and made me a national selling artist,, not because it's the first work I have done that has received this level of  response and chatter. but because of the soul-filling experience of creating something that makes people think about Life, Love, God, and everything in between ! It's the most powerful, mature, stimulating artwork that has come out of my Soul !!
 
 
 
VIMMAG: What is next for Alexander P. Huerta?
ALEXANDER P. HUERTA: God only knows what's next for APH ! I can tell you that I trust in this thing called "Art". I can only wish to wake tomorrow, go to my little place in the universe,(PeaceNart Studio) that God has helped me find, and "Live My Dream" Again that day !!!! I so trust in what this Art Adventure has already offered to and for my life, I will hope to be a more Knowledgeable Artist and Human.
 
 
Alexander  P. Huerta
Visual Artist
PeaceNart Studio
The "World Famous" Arts Factory
107 E. Charleston Blvd. #230
Las Vegas, Nv. 89104
702-858-0050
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art / past interviews

My First Rodeo

2012-01-08 02:00:09.0

 

 

3/27/2010
My First Rodeo Interview with Michael Welsh and Hillary
Interview by Jorge Lara Santiago 
 
 
VIMMAG: What was your introduction into the Vegas music scene?
MW: We've never been properly introduced. As an LV native, I feel more like a product or spawn of the LV scene than someone who's discovering it.
HH: I'm hoping any day now.
 
 
VIMMAG:  I think you all make a great addition to the Arts District and your venue is always one of my points of destination when I go to First Friday. When I get to First Friday I tend to get a "neighborhood" feeling from your location and from your next door neighbors, 'Cottages Castles Closets.' Plus you both have the added bonus of a great location next to the ACE Gold Line transit system. What was the inherent purpose for such a venue?
MW: We needed a place for Hillary to do hair (legitimately) and we needed a good place to rehearse...
HH: ...and we LOVE downtown Las Vegas and we love being a part of the changes taking place.
MW: plus I made a decree some time ago to only play in non-smoking, preferably all age venues... and it seemed to be the only way to have an all ages, non-smoking place in the heart of Las Vegas that I could play at anytime I wanted. It just makes good sense, ya know.
 
 
VIMMAG: As creators and hosts of the recently launched S.O.A.P. Box (Society Of Anarchist Poets), you both seem to have a knowledge of past poetry venues such as Enigma and Espresso Roma. I just want to mention that your poetry venue at the moment is the only one with an actual stage and it brings to mind the stage that was once a key feature at Espresso Roma. What do you think S.O.A.P. Box will bring to the scene?
MW: Anarchist poets. I don't think we (mankind) are all out of ideas... or that there are no improvements yet be achieved. I think we can do better.
HH: Sunday Funday.!?
 
VIMMAG; Can you list three songs of yours and give a bit of history on each?
MW: Do I have to?
HH: Michael.
MW: Ugh. This is the part I hate. It always sounds so arrogant and self-serving to hear musicians, actors or artists talk about their "craft".
HH: Michael....
MW: (sigh) Ok, ok. I think they are all pretty self explanatory, save for a few tongue-in-cheek references.
"The Vicious Cycle" is about going through life in a seemingly endless cycle of volunteering your waking life to spend at a job that you hate getting up and going to everyday. I think a lot of people relate to it. I used to sing the words: "This Vicious Cycle" ad nauseum at the end to really drive the point home.
MW: "Tennessee" is a poem/song I used to sing when I was a solo act but when Hillary joined the group, she didn't like any song that seemed to be about other girls... but I like that poem so much that we decided that if Hillary sang it, it wouldn't be me singing about other women and it would make the audience curious and/or confused- and we both liked that aspect.
MW: "A Better Place". You know. Everyone fears death, yet when anyone dies they say that they have moved on to "a better place". Funny dichotomy, I think. Plus, I've known a lot people that have died. I also like the proclamation that I am here as an agent of gratitude and that we (humans) should not be so complacent to human suffering.
 
VIMMAG; And finally, what is next for Michael and Hillary?
HH: What's next? it's never ending, really... A hundred things. A tour, up the western coast..
MW: I'd like to open an espresso bar/produce market. Or somebody should. Wouldn't that be so cool? Plus, it would be amazing to be able to get fresh produce as easy as it is to get junk food in this neighborhood. There's an available spot where the old Iowa Cafe used to be, it has tables, chairs and even the espresso machine already in it.
 
 
-- 
 
 
Society of  Anarchist Poets | Spoken Word / Mic
 
Come read and discuss poetry and share philosophy regarding our community and what we can do to create the change we wish to see in the world.
 
hillary art beauty music fashion
1104 S 3rd St
Las Vegas 18b Arts District. Have you seen us lately?
 
Every first Sunday of the month at 3pm
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music / past interviews

AMANDA MORGAN

2012-01-08 01:58:47.0

 

 

VIMMAG: You currently teach the erotic poetry class at the Erotic Heritage Museum, what is the most common asked question you have received from your students and how do you approach each class session? 
 
AMANDA MORGAN: One of the most common questions from my students is What REALLY is erotic poetry? When I turn the question around and ask them what they think it is, I find that the term erotic has a raunchier social connotation than it deserves! Erotic poems are about love, lust, passion, romance and sensual acts. But mostly LOVE. After I clarify what erotic poetry is, I encourage my students to explore their 5 senses and write down what they find erotic to touch, smell, taste, hear and see. This is also an exercise that helps people identify their personal turn-ons and creative magic! 
 
VIMMAG: As a local poet yourself, how did you get your start in poetry? 
 
AMANDA MORGAN: I have been writing poetry and songs since 4th grade. Poetry is an outlet for me; for my raw experiences, life observations and pain. I find it the most therapeutic exercise to help me sort out my thoughts and heal pain. Poetry became a larger part of my life in high school as it flowed naturally on to the backsides of homework sheets, envelopes and in the occasional, locatable poetry book. Love, life, friendship and family influence most of my poems. I had a great poetry teacher at UNLV named Professor Lyons (she has since moved away), that taught me how to constructively criticize my work and encouraged me to share my work. More recently I have been reading my poems, performing my songs and teaching at the Erotic Heritage Museum.
 
 
VIMMAG: You host the Afternoon Delight Variety Show at the museum? Just what exactly does that entail and how did it come about? 
 
AMANDA MORGAN: I created the Afternoon Delight Variety Show to give another venue for the 18+ crew of talented, creative people living in Las Vegas. Due to it being an 18 and over show, mature material is not only allowed, but encouraged! The Erotic Heritage Museum is a safe place for freedom and full expression of our First Amendment Right, which the stage is located under a giant banner of. The show is a blast and brings together all sorts of different talent, from dancers, singers, musicians, magicians, shadow puppet performers, female impersonators and poets! I even put on a patriotic performance and had myself painted like the American Flag and read the Bill of Rights aloud for the audience! Its only $10, includes museum admission, tea and sweet lovely treats and is at 3pm every 3rd Saturday of the month. All proceeds currently help support the Museum.
 
(I am always looking for people who want to sign up and perform!  Email me: Amanda@eroticheritage.org)
 
 
VIMMAG: You are also a local musician and performer, what kind of music do you perform? 
 
AMANDA MORGAN: I sing old jazz standards, new pop tunes and some of my own original songs too. I sing songs that I feel deep inside. Ukulele, piano and kazoo have been my favorite instruments these days but you never know what else Im going to grab and make music with. I have been playing ukulele on and off for over 14 years and piano since I was 5. Music has taken a more prominent part in my life these days thanks to my life and school finally permitting me more time for my passion.
 
 
VIMMAG: And finally, what is next for Amanda Morgan? 
 
AMANDA  MORGAN: I will be graduating with my Doctor of Human Sexuality degree in late June, certifying me as Americas youngest clinical sexologist and sex educator. After that I am focusing on my thesis and graduating from UNLV with my Masters in Public Health. I will continue my Afternoon Delight Variety Show and Erotic Poetry Classes at the Erotic Heritage Museum after I graduate. I hope to grow my music and record a CD sometime in the near future while continuing to follow my dreams everyday. I hope to educate people about environmental and reproductive justice issues and help people everyday.
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poet / past interviews

GLORIA SANDERS

2012-01-08 01:57:44.0

 

 

VIMMAG: Your new novel is called Kyandra: The REMvision, what was the inspiration behind the book? 
 
GLORIA SANDERS:   Kyandra  was a character created from my love of fantasy novels that was sparked by a young Christian couple given me a group of books for my birthday. * (C .S. Lewis  The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe) when I was sixteen years old.    It sparked my love of the genre of Fantasy and the world of imagination.   When my son was eight I wanted to created like novels that he could enjoy  that held the imagination  and asked the question * What If* and I wanted to share my ability at story telling with my child and thus Kyandra  Book I was created. 
 
VIMMAG: I've known you previously from our encounters at poetry readings where you have read from your collection of poems. Can you list three of your poems and tell us a bit about them? 
 
If Silence is Golden
My very first poem Ive ever performed in front of a audience was called If Silence is Golden  this poem was about not being able to express to someone I cared deeply about exactly how I was feeling, because I was very good at writing down my feelings, but talking about them, expressing them out loud ; was extremely difficult.
 
Falling
This poem is a classic love poem, but with a twist, because it explores emotions such as passion and lust and my trying to sort through those emotions and explain that its very complicated in any case because love is still the controlling factor.
 
Look Into the Mirror
This piece is very much self exploration  because of my fear to put my self out there to the audience who enjoyed spoken word, it involved my struggle to come to terms with my image and inner voice and bringing it to bear regardless if my poetry was received well, this is one of my victory poems because it really expressed what I chose not to address.  
 
 
VIMMAG: You previously hosted Spoken Jazz, are you planning on reviving it 
in 2010? What was your experience hosting that venue? 
 
GLORIA SANDERS: SpokeNJazz was definitely a dream come true.  I wanted to create a venue that involved the spoken word artist and music connecting to give a vibe to the listener that is barely experienced when listening to poetry.   Mostly, you hear music in format with singers, rappers, but I wanted to give that same vibe to the spoken word artist.   It was with pride that I was able to accomplish that here in the Las Vegas Area.    I originally started off forming a collective group of my friends and fellow poets who  I have had the pleasure of working with in past and creating a show format to showcase their poetry in the spoken word forum.    It was an awesome and blessed experience.  SpokeNJazz  - the name of my venue evolved with the help of a extremely talented poet based out of Los Angeles by the name of Deana Reed where together we were able to introduce to a hungry audience seeking poetry some of the hottest and best spoken words artist known in the Los Vegas and surrounding areas.    The venue show cased ideas that incorporated,  Live music, poetry, live art, vocalist and a created an atmosphere that was innovated, jazzy and hip.   It was one my proudest accomplishments to have had Michael Jamal Warner and Christopher Hines, two very talented poets from Los Angeles bless our venue.  The Venue *SpokeNJazz*   took place once a month and continued for five consecutive months.    For the year 2010,  my hope was to find the right location and sponsorship to bring  SpokeNJazz back already Malcolm Jamal Warner and Christopher Hines has expressed interest in returning to perform in the show.  It is with enthusiasm that I recreate a venue that epitomizes the culture of poetry and arts in the Las Vegas community that has been my growing desire to bring as a staple in a city that is starving for art.  
 
VIMMAG: You've released an audio cd of your poetry before, can you tell us  
a bit about it? How did it all come about? 
 
GLORIA SANDERS: I was always looking for some way different to express my poetry other than in book format.  Believe it or not, I was going to publish my poetry book before I published *Kyandra*, but was  fortunate enough to have a very supportive friend who encourage me to seek giving my poetry life thru spoken word.   
 
One of my dearest friends, Curtis Bryant also known as Curt B, had just completed his rap CD and had his own home base studio and suggested I try my art as a spoken word artist by expressing my poetry on a CD instead of the regular book of poetry format.   Thus my very first CD I Just Need 2 Speak was released - which has  twelve poems along with music to accompany my style of delivery .     My second CD is in the making and has not been named or released as of yet, I expect its release in September 2010.  
 
VIMMAG: What is next for Gloria Sanders? - 
 
GLORIA SANDERS: Well Kyandra is a Trilogy, She still has a story to tell,  and Book II is already completed and will be sent to my publisher by June 1st.   So book three is next, and my second CD is in the works while SpokeNJazz is  still very much in my things to do for 2010, I still have not found a venue to perform; I am working with a new partner in resolving this since my old partner has moved to Los Angeles.    Although Ive heard other venues have started to create this type of setup.   It is no surprise that someone would want to recreate SpokeNJazz , as far as I am concerned we cannot have enough support here in the Las Vegas area for spoken word and poetry.     I know I could not have started on this journey without Gods grace and allowing me the gift of words that come out of my heart.  So before I end this interview I would like to thank God for blessing me and allowing my story to be told.     
 
Kyandra has been accepted by the Henderson Library located @ Sunset and Green Valley Parkway -  On Sat July 17th there will be a Q&A and Meet the Author session with book signing Look for Time TBA.       
At this link:  http://www.publishamerica.net/product89741.html
 
Or thru Borders Books order thru this ISBN# 978-1-4489-5462-9   available to order since May 1, 2010.    Contact Gloria Sanders @ Desire4fire23@yahoo.com  to get  a signed copy if you are in Las Vegas.
 
Look for-  The Blood Red Stone  Book II - The Kyandra Trilogy  -coming soon.    
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poet / past interviews

TERESA MAHARAJ

2012-01-07 17:04:24.0

 

TERESA MAHARAJ

 

VIMMAG: Greetings Teresa, I think I always seem to be running into you at Sunrise Coffee Co., usually on poetry nights, they do make great espresso coffee don't they? You're currently a resident artist at Damned Ink Studios, how did your relationship begin with them?
 
TERESA MAHARAJ: Sunrise Coffee is absolutely fabulous, yes! I’ve shown there, supported the local poets on Wednesday nights and love the local owners. Plus, I could live on their coffee!!!
 
My relationship with Damned Ink began about 5 years ago when I first set foot in the First Friday scene and fell in love with the art of Danny Roberts. I bought prints to study his style and technique. Danny and I used to hang out at a mutual friend and artist’s Mark T. Zeilman (MTZC) gallery on Saturday’s for open studio sessions. Then Danny and Leigh opened DIS and 
soon after I met with Leigh McCormick, his wife, and began to develop a wonderful friendship. Danny and Leigh expressed to me how much they admired what I was doing with my art, and as soon as they decided to open their doors at DIS to other artists, I was honored that they had me down as one of the artists that they planned on bringing in. 
 
 
VIMMAG: You said one of your influences for your art was comic books, could you name any current favorites or favorites you might have had when growing up?
 
TERESA MAHARAJ: You know, I only collected comic books for the visuals. This sounds funny, I know, but I hardly ever read them, hahaha! I so loved to draw characters like Batman, Wolverine, and most of the X-Men characters; Superman, The Hulk. I really enjoyed a lot of Todd McFarlane’s artwork as well. As time went on I studied Boris Vallejo’s figure work. I love Frank Frazetta’s work too. 
 
 
 
VIMMAG: You received your art studies in California, how was the art scene there compared to the one we have now in Las Vegas? 
What do you think about First Friday?
 
TERESA MAHARAJ: When I lived out there, the art scenes were awesome, but it wasn’t easy to get involved in them. There was just so much of it and for a young artist (in their career), I really didn’t know where to begin. 
 
First Fridays and the art scene in Vegas is awesome! It is more accessible and more communal. When you think of Vegas, you don’t necessarily think of art, let alone an arts district. I was blown away by the talent I saw and continue to see in our city. And the artists are down to earth and cool as hell! If you want to talk to them about their work, you can without feeling intimidated. If you ask them for help as far as how to get started in shows, they help you network. The arts community has been extraordinarily helpful and I am honored to be a part of it.
 
 
VIMMAG: From all the body of work you have done could you tell us about three of your pieces and give a history or background on how those pieces came to be?
 
TERESA MAHARAJ: Three pieces, hmmm… Well, we can start off with the first drawing I did for my first solo show that I had at MTZC back in March 2008. That is the drawing of Shiva, Lord of Destruction that I drew in Graphite. I’d just gotten out of this job that I had in the administrative field and realized that I needed a major change in my life. I came to the realization that I no longer belonged in the “corporate” world. I would never understand them and that they would never understand me. I was fifty pounds heavier and was sick of that part of my life as well. I needed those parts gone, once and for all. I needed a transformation on several levels. Anyhow, I realized who I wanted to be and he was the first drawing that came out of me representing the death of the Teresa that lived in a box of conformity and the rebirth of Teresa the artist. 
 
The second piece would have to be Underlying Beauty. She is a very popular drawing that was rejected for a show that I specifically drew her for. I drew her back in 2005 for a juried show that was being held at the West Sahara Library and she was denied. Soon after, I started showing her at other group shows downtown and she received some amazing responses. She now lives with a very happy collector but is still loved by those who can buy prints of her. Underlying Beauty represents the inner beauty within us all. We may look different on the outside but we are all physically the same on the inside. 
 
The third piece I would have to say would be Ganesh or the piece titled as “Vighna-nasa”. Ganesh is the lord of removing obstacles in the Hindu pantheon. He is most often depicted as if he is the cute, cuddly elephant-headed god and he is one of the most worshiped deities in the Hindu culture. Yeah, well, my Ganesh is not like that. I’m a firm believer that we are our biggest obstacles and we need a good kick in the ass once in a while. I know I do! That’s why I paint him so rugged, in your face, determined, fearless, and powerful. And one look from him really kicks my own ass out of my way so I can get the job done.
 
 
VIMMAG: Where do you see yourself in the next five years, artistically? What's next for Teresa Maharaj-Williams?
 
 
TERESA MAHARAJ: I’ve only been painting for about a year. I see myself definitely progressing in my craft. Trust me, I don’t plan on giving this up – ever – especially since I’ve just gotten over my fears of painting. Hopefully, I will mature in style and subject and grow a body of work. Getting into shows in other parts of the country and the world would be a dream come true, for sure. But right now I’m focused on growing as an artist and doing it better. Only time can tell where my growth will take me.
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art / past interviews

Past Interviews: Paria B Break Free

2012-01-03 16:11:14.0

 

 
Paria B is a Spoken Word EMCEE that intertwines poetry and hip hop in her creative writing process. Her debut Album, 'Break Free' is an outlet projecting her views on politics, love, pain, family, religion and education. The album was compiled by DUWOPRose The Vinylist, who has contributed to the album by lacing the cuts as her DJ, and also by fulfilling the role of her Executive Producer. 
 
 
VIMMAG: You have won first place in 3 music competitions, and 2nd place in one and most recently you received "Best Female Rapper," at the BMA's. What do you think has contributed to your current acclaim?
 
PARIA B: From poetry slams on campus to the rap battle to the award show... I think it's really just my drive and ambition. I'm always motivated to do more. My passion for music and words keeps me on top of my game.
 
VIMMAG: You were born in Kansas City and now live in Las Vegas, how has this city contributed to your writing? What do you tend to write about the most?
 
PARIA B:  Las Vegas is very diverse compared to Kansas City, so I would assume that my writing has become more well rounded since I've been here. I had a lot of 'firsts' here. The first time I went to a club, the first time I went college, my first license, my first performance/slam/battle.. all of that began here. So I grew a lot mentally being here, and in turn, that shines in my music. I write about what I know. 
 
VIMMAG: You collaborated with Duwoprose The Vinylist who contributed to your album Break Free. What do you think this collaboration has brought to the table and what does she bring out in you?
 
PARIA B:  Duwop mixed and mastered my album, so she definitely brought a fresh sound to it. All the effects, the scratches.. she also chose a couple of the beats that I wrote to. And that was a challenge in its own. haha! She encourages me to give it my all in the studio, so we definitely don't waste any time.
 
VIMMAG: Having seen you perform as a spoken word emcee and a poet, can you tell us about three of your favorite pieces and give us the background history on each one.
 
PARIA B: 'My 3 Elements' is the piece that really gave me exposure. I won my 3rd slam with that piece and was featured in The View newspaper shortly after. Muslim, Woman with an Education. Those are my 3 elements. The poem touches on being a smart Muslim woman in America and the hardships me, my family, my sisters and brothers have faced because of it. Racial profiling and the Patriot Act really played a role in how I felt when I wrote this piece. I also felt like there was a unity between Muslims unlike ever before, so I wanted to share that in there as well. I said things that NEEDED to be said. Wether people wanted to hear it or not. It's my most passionate poem. I believe in it.
 
'I'm Writing For You' is on my album. I wrote that in a plane, on my way to Kansas City! That particular piece is about writing for the 'hopeless, for the people with nothing but skin and bones left.. something like homeless!' That's who I was writing for in that piece. The people with nothing that need motivation to do something. The everyday person struggling for a better life. No one knows what they deal with on a day to day basis but the person going through it themselves.
 
'He Is' is a piece I created about the warrior male. The fighter. The one that maybe started out emotional or sensitive, but later on evolves and becomes more fierce through his actions. Therefore creating the revolution in me, he is the sudden change in this piece that made me change the way I viewed him. From a boy to a man.
I combined different experiences when I wrote this poem to get a real solid understanding on its direction. I felt like women do so much man bashing in their pieces and I want to be the one to show appreciation. The men in my life are good men, so why not write something uplifting about them..?
 
VIMMAG: So what is next for Paria B? I hear you are currently making some music videos?
 
PARIA B:  Music videos will be coming soon! 'Is It A Crime' will be the first video I put out.. and I'm still debating on a couple others after that. Every song has a story to it, so the videos will definitely be entertaining and worth the wait! Who knows? Maybe it'll be 'Real Recognize Real,' or 'It Don't Matter'... Guess you'll have to wait and see.

 

 

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music / past interviews

Welcome to VIMMAG's New Blog And Happy New Year

2012-01-03 14:53:55.0

Greetings! Welcome to VIMMAG's new Blog. Hope everyone is having a Happy New Year! We have come a long way with this magazine dedicated to the poetry, art, and culture scene in Las Vegas and in 2012 we want to relaunch it to bring you more interviews, videos, and exclusives from the art and culture community.

Stay tuned for more in the weeks ahead as we announce our roster for our upcoming magazine features and we will be posting past interviews online soon.

See you soon!

Jorge Lara,

Editor In Chief, VIMMAG: Vegas Poetry + Culture

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vegas / poetry / art / culture / magazine / 2012 / community / relaunch / from the editor