It is not very common to bump into two beautiful girls whose chemistry is equally magnetizing. When you meet Isabella Acker and Whitney Lykins, smiles bounce back and forward like a ping-pong ball. A conversation with them sparks with the mention of a name, a verb, or even the humming of a song. Names of artists, melodies, venues, and off course Miami, get somehow thrown in there; you end up discovering new events, musicians and with a new set of friends.

As pleasant as it is to meet them, it is even more so to admire what they have accomplished in such a short time (March 2011) when both friends decided to become business partners, giving birth to The Black Key Group, an artist marketing and managing firm. Since then, they’ve been banging on doors, tearing other ones down, but mostly opening a very strong one, the LIVE MUSIC door, where Miami and its underground community can cross through and enjoy the best of the best of the local talent.

Before their Pop-Up Piano nomad installation for Art Basel, WFK was able to sit them put, snap some pics and ask them a few questions.

WFK: I’ve always been very interested in teamwork; the passion becomes solid, the ideas, plans, and the energy forever evolving. However, teams break down into individuals that bring to the table different flavors. What are Isabella’s ingredients, how do they integrate with Whitney’s contributions?
Whitney (TBKG): Izzy brings a powerful dynamic to The Black Key Group fueled by her enthusiasm for creative expression. This particular quality makes the corporate experience an exciting coaster to ride. We both hold a mutual passion for artistic expression whether it is translated through music, art, dance or craft, and the skills we both bring to the table only make this company a stronger platform for artists to rise up.

How and when did such charming souls come together? Where was the line crossed between friendship and business partners?
We met in an international high-school… lab partners to be exact. We traveled one city to the next, living parallel lives without knowing it. From our frustration of Miami’s touristic breast-feeding electronic scene, we joined forces to create a company catered to the rawest of sounds. We crossed the line from which you can never return in March 2011.

Which doors are the Black Key opening?
We are trying to open doors that are bigger than us. We want to bring a cultural shift beyond Miami.

Why the name “Black Key Group”?
Doesn’t it have a good ring to it! Plus it doesn’t hurt to have a similar SEO as The Black Keys.

An essential statement that narrows TBKG down into a few words is “live music.” Name a couple of things that come to your mind when you close your eyes and imagine a live music performance? What does it taste like, what does it feel like?
Pulsating sweat, glitter and caked-on dirt.

Pop Up Piano is coming to Art Basel Miami thanks to you. An idea inspired by a similar event in New York. Can you tell us how does it work? Where can we catch it during Basel?
This past summer we were inspired by a New York City-based,non-profit organization, Sing for Hope. They created a project by the name of Pop-Up Piano which was lead by a team of volunteers that repaired, painted, and installed 88 pianosthroughout the five boroughs of New York. This greatly inspired us, as it was a project created to bring awareness to the local arts and make it interactive for the community. Pop-Up Piano was calling our names! We decided to bring this project down to Miami for Art Basel  2011, and the ball hasn’t stopped rolling for us and the Pop-Up Piano volunteer committee ever since. You can take a look at the local musicians schedule on popuppianomiami.com

Which artistic qualities were you looking for when choosing the artists for Pop Up Piano Miami?
We wanted to choose the musical “personalities” of Miami. An important quality that many performers struggle with is the ability to have a natural interaction with their audience while simultaneously letting their personality shine… as well as being ridiculously awesome on the keys.

Are you musicians yourselves or just music fanatics? When was the music seed planted in you?
We get this question more than you think. Whitney has never lost her love for performing arts but has never pursued it on a professional level. Izzy’s talent lies in email correspondence… which we love her for. We joke that after we launch Jacob Jeffries Band and Suenalo nationally, Whitney will be the next rock star on the roster.

Besides music, is there anything else that brings you two together? What other passion do you share in common?
Spontaneous adventures. When we were stuck at school in Boca (don’t ask), we found ourselves making weekly trips down to Miami, discovering local joints in Calle Ocho, playing volleyball with the Brazillians in Pompano, and getting lost on Thursday nights in The Grove.

Now, to wrap it up. The Black Key Group is for Miami as… Cookies are to the Cookie Monster.

–

Girl Power Quiz 

Miami tastes like?
Lemon juice
Romanticism is necessary for . . . Longevity. It keeps the giddiness of a first crush constant in a long lasting relationship.
I am proud of my . . . Business partner for putting up with my s!*?%
I can’t live with out . . .  Thrift stores. You can create one of a kind ensemble for less than $10.
What is Wasabi?
The spice to life
The best kiss is like . . . Like an Indian buffet. There’s so much flavor in every bite.
Top 5 music wise: ZAZ, The Boom Booms, Bright Light Social Hour, Die Antword, Luisa Maita
A hidden quality: Izzy is ridiculously good with names and faces. Whit is ridiculously awful with names and not too bad with faces
Favorite cartoon character. . . Stewie, he’s determined… although it’s on world domination, at least he’s focused on something, right?

What do you wear to feel sexy?
Izzy – feather earrings. Whitney – Nothing. Simplicity is beautiful.
Freedom in your own words: Windows down. Sun in my face. Wind through my hair. Music that stimulates my ear drums.

–

 More about The Black Key Group: www.theblackkeygroup.com

An artist cannot be defined by holding a brush and spending hours painting. What really makes an artist earn his title is the ability to visualize the future and head over to catch it on time. There are dreamers out there… and people awake… making their dreams happen. Yuval Ofir  is just that  type of guy,  in love with Miami, with a plan of  action and tools on hand, polishing his artwork day to day : “Bridging creative people with those in need of creativity.” Bringing Miami together.

Yuval, is the man responsible for YO Miami,  to come on this Thursday’s “Won’t you be my Neighnbor?” event, and “Pop-up Piano” Art & Music Installation in collaboration with the ladies of The Black Key Group for Art Basel.

Let’s pick in his mind…

WFK: Let’s start from the beginning. We have all seen you hustle around town wearing your YO Miami shirt and in the heart of the best events, and posting online and spreading the word about what’s going on. But, now that we are one-on-one, who’s behind the YO Miami face?
Yuval Ofir: I think I’m kind of a blend of Larry David, and Seth Rogen:  cynical, analytical, sarcastic and agnostic. I didn’t really come out of my shell until college and had you told high school me what I’d be getting up to down the road, I’d have called you crazy. I tend to want to blaze my own trail rather than sticking to the beaten path, really just because I know the direction I want to go in and say fuck any metaphorical foliage in the way.

Yo Miami is not exactly a publication, or a blog, or a marketing company, but you could think it is… how would you put it for those that still need to hear about it?
A friend of mine recently sat down with me to brainstorm and helped me come up with the answer to that exact question. The goal is for Yo Miami to become a bridge between creative people and people in need of creativity. Basically I see it eventually being a one-stop resource for local artists (whether visual, musical, or other) to get connected with everyone from venue and gallery owners to other artists; they can collaborate on projects with. I also plan on incorporating merchandising opportunities where we’ll pay artists a licensing fee and use their designs for any number of types of products.

I have to throw in one more word: Space. In our previous conversation you mentioned this project was in the works, Yo Space. Can you explain to us what’s the buzz about it?
I’m in the process of renovating a warehouse in Little Haiti that will include 6 studios and a gallery/event space, following the lead of places like Bakehouse. It’s already been put to use for a couple photo shoots and I’m hoping to have it ready for people to move in by January, 2012. I’m excited to have already gotten interest in the space from people from local radio companies, journalists, and of course artists. I like to think of it becoming a hub for all kinds of local scene contributors to connect and collaborate at.

Where does your love for Miami come from? What is it about this city that has you enamored with?
I was fortunate enough to travel around a lot when I was younger:  to  Europe, the Middle East, as well as all over North America, and while I found places that were nice and appealing, I really never saw myself living anywhere but Miami.  I guess because like me, the city is kind of a late bloomer compared to the more established cities like LA and NY; it’s only now coming into its own, and doing so to the beat of its own drum. At the same time it has the potential for greatness in the areas that those other cities are known for, whether it’s fashion and food in NY or music in LA.

YO Miami has been working closely with The Black Key Group; how was this friendship sparked?
In this day and age, of course it starts with Facebook. Isabella and Whitney, the co-founders of The Black Key Group, connected with me on there after the opening of the venue PAX, and by whatever twist of fate we all ended up at Sketchy,  Miami’s first Sketchy Party event. We wound up talking for a bit there and they were super supportive and excited about what I was doing with Yo Miami and vice versa, so it just kind of grew organically from there. It also didn’t hurt that we hung out at the same places and both have an itch for supporting local talent.

Let’s talk business now. Next week on Thursday night:  I’ve heard of a special gathering that involves YO Miami, The Black Key Group, and FOUND, called “Won’t you be my Neighbor?” What’s gonna make this night so special and commemorative for our neighborhood?
It started from an idea I had for Yo Miami’s first “official” event to be something closer to a house party than doing some big shindig at a bar or club. After randomly connecting with the owners of Found through a post I’d done on the Yo Miami facebook page, I immediately knew the venue was the place to make that happen. I had also gone to a few of The Black Key Group’s Unplugged Session events around the same time , and I knew no one would be better to bring on board for the musical side of things; everything else kind of fell in place from there. It truly is for locals by locals, and we’re thrilled at how great everyone involved has been in working with us to make it happen. At the end of the day we’re just a group of locals that all had different things to bring to the table and decided to do just that; kind of feast, prepared for the individuals who make up our amazing local community to enjoy.

And as a born and raised local, can you tell us… what’s your favorite local band, artist, hang-out place, and character of the moment?
This is a really hard question especially since most of my favorite things are local in general. Band: Artofficial, I always refer to them as Miami’s Roots. Venue: it’s  hands down The Vagabond. Artist: Kazilla, who aside from being a really talented artist, is just an amazing all around person. And character: I’ll have to say Buffalo Brown; he’s an amazing guitarist who plays in Elastic Bond and just this huge guy with dreads who’s actually this super friendly guy and I always enjoy running into him randomly around town.
–

WASABI KULTURE QUIZ

What’s missing in Miami?
A single lane of traffic only for me to use.
A hidden quality: 
Quadrilingual (English, French, Hebrew, Spanish, in order of proficiency)
Last gift you gave to yourself:
A Fossil watch, only brand I’ve worn since middle school.
What makes you happy?
The perfect plan coming together perfectly.
What’s Wasabi? Spicy.
Preferred method of communication:
Any form of written communication.
What do you want to be when you grow up:
…As long as I don’t become a cautionary tale for entrepreneurs I’m good.
Where is home? 
Do you have to ask?
Something that you will never wear:
A popped collar
Freedom in your own words:
The ability to pursue your passions without trampling those of others.

There’s no difference between the character performing on stage and off. Holly Peño, troop leader and founder of Shameless Burlesque, can’t fake elegance. Her dance it’s more of a ritual celebration to femininity and beauty, she embraces her body and seduces her audience with her act. Guys sip their drinks quickly to avoid being caught by their girl friends with their astonished mouths open in awe to Holly’s provocative moves; girls just smirk and thank the Burlesque commander for doing such a brave and romantic spectacle in front of their eyes – god knows every girls secretly wishes to be in her heels.

Your aura recalls retro pin-up elegance, your tattoos – your badass soul, your smile – the girl within. Behind the burlesque dancer and nightlife performer, who are you?
I am a mirror.  A direct reflection of whoever Im in front of…

What’s a girl from Chicago doing in Miami? Where’s home?
I came for the ocean.  I feel like both Chicago and Miami both are my home.

How was Shameless Burlesque created?
The belief of good friends in my idea of putting on vaudeville style shows and the support of my troupe leader in Chicago.

Any closed doors on your way?
Not so much.  Only my tight schedule has prevented me from anything I really wanted to do.

Being that you are a woman that handles an act of elegance and femininity, your source of inspiration might have been enlightened by other women. Can you tell us who?
Ah, yes! I have a few: Angela Eve of Eves Parlor Burlesque, Zorita, Lily St. Syr and of course Betty Paige.

What do you feel when you are performing. What’s the interaction between you and the crowd?
I am so nervous before the act but once Im on, the audience becomes my lover and I want to please them.  I seek out indivuals in the audience so that I might seduce them into loving me…

What kind of music do you dance to?
I have no real favorite music.  But the song must tell a story or have a sexy beat…

How can you define what you do, is it an art? An act?
Acting is art, no? So yes, I consider what I do an art.  It’s telling a story with my body, my clothes, my makeup, my hair…my soul, even…

–

Girl Power quiz

Miami tastes like? The ocean
I am proud of my.. Troupe.  We are still together and going strong three years later.
I can’t live with out.. My friends and family. Our love is unconditional.
What is Wasabi? My favorite spice!
The best kiss is like . . . A wonderful dream.  Coz you never want it to end.
Top 5 music wise: Reggae, Spanish, House, Blues, Hip-hop
A hidden quality… Don’t tell anyone, but Im sensitive.
Favorite cartoon . . . Archer. Coz it HILARIOUS!
What do you wear to feel sexy? High heels.  Im taller, straighter and it does wonders for my legs!
Freedom in your own words : Freedom is the ability to do what I want, when I want and how I want.

To stay informed about Holly and Shameless Burlesque performance please visit www.shamelessburlesque.com

Watch Holly Peño on action at The Vagabond on the video below:

Everything about this woman fascinates us. Her criminal documentation of what being under the influence makes us become, her machiavellic way of swinging her camera and flash in each hand,  her capturing of our natural essence under our super hero costumes of the night. She brings the nefarious side of us out: Jipsy, the mystical and in the flesh is the woman documenting Miami’s underground culture, fashion and music scene one picture at a time.

WFK: What could we know about you that you haven’t already shown us?
Jipsy: Photographically? Shots I take after the party. Personally? I’m kinda shy. But you wouldn’t say that if you saw my after party pictures.

Revolution: You caused one by rejecting the posing, cheesy, night-out shots from the nightlife photographers back in the day. You proposed a fresh in-the-flesh type of photography.  Now you’ve got a whole feline reputation and admiration from Miami. Nefarious Girl, were you always like this?
My plan was not to reject the format, but just to do what I felt. Posed and smiling are the standard practices for the press and many publications, but I had my own website, so I could do what I want. Now I am thankful it’s my job and I get hired for my style. As for “sticking to my guns”, I am stubborn, so yes, I guess you can say I was always like this.

Photographing is like archiving minutes of history and it’s telling a story. You, Jipsy, get to tell a very special one. To your eyes, what’s Miami’s tale during the past 10 years about?
I never wanted to create a story, but it’s become this archive of memories. My Miami story is about the people I’ve seen weekly and captured their lives without invading their privacy. I’ve seen the beginnings of relationships, the end of friendships, and other personal moments, including body parts that will haunt me forever.

In a couple of decades we will look at your pictures and recognized a party that shouldn’t have ended or maybe one we don’t even remember. Your gallery of photography will be like that hole on the wall that let’s you peak in to see what’s going on. Do you realize the importance you have in our underground culture?
Wow, thanks! I only realize what I have captured when I see it, like now, in my selection process, its wild how many faces have come and gone, I can feel the vibe of the parties and still remember what was going on. As for parties that shouldn’t have ended – I disagree. Everything changes and that brings on endings of one thing and beginnings of another.

“There are too many night life photographers”, not too long ago I heard you saying this. How has this impacted you?
I use to say that a lot. My personal impact is that people are no longer “as they were”. Now they are ready to be photographed and even pretend they don’t see the camera but are posed candidly. The element of a natural state is gone.

The camera is always by your side. Maybe it’s she who is carrying you around… What does the camera give you that you are so fascinated by it?
Lately I’ve been leaving her at home. I think my love affair with the night is back to its roots which is dressing up to go and dance or just staying home watching movies. But my EVO (cell) is constantly taking pictures. I can’t help it. I need to document my life.

What else do you love?
…so much. Every day I fall in love with something or someone.

Is life easy or is there a trick to it? Do you know the secret?
Nothing is easy. But it’s also not about hard work. Have you read Outliers?

–

Check out Jipsy (Nefarious Girl) first solo show at Wynwood’s Butter Gallery
Opening night Tuesday, March 8 at 7pm

Butter Gallery Wynwood
2303 NW 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33127
305.303.6254

*All photos of this article were taken by Jipsy, Nefarious Girl– www.nefariousgirl.com

Driving around Miami hunting for graffiti; the mission sounds too easy around the walls of Wynwood, but it is so much fun! Top that by being accompanied by one of the masters and the one responsible for 131 Projects: Gustavo Oviedo. We also got a chance to visit his studio and chat a while about art, life and what’s beneath the surface.
When I came in to his art habitat, he greeted me with a smile and I left with a huge one. He is humble, charismatic, and has a way of conversing that immerses you in his personal artistic universe; opening your eyes so you can see that you truly get whatever you work for.

You are an artist, and one that makes a statement by using almost every medium possible in order to express yourself. Now that we know how you look at art, tell us, how do you look at life?
I don’t take things for granted. Always on the hunt for good times.

You were born in Paris, lived in South America, and now in the States. Has this cultural flux shaped your style? What influence does it have in your life?
It has influenced my artwork – a lot of what I do deals with my current environment (Miami). Moving from place to place taught me how to adapt quickly and relate to wherever I live. My current work reflects the way I perceive living in this city.

You grew up between artist’s studios and come from a mother who is an artist herself. However, your curiosity for art came later on when you immersed yourself in the graffiti world. Would you say that art is related to the genes or is it sparked by something else? How did the art bug get you?
A mix of both, even though I grew up around art studios it wasn’t until I got into writing graffiti when I was twelve that I became more involved. My Family being art oriented was an essential element for my development as an artist. The importance of artworks and culture was taught to me from an early age, I was taken to museums from each country I lived in.

What’s the difference between a street artist and an artist? Are you a street artist?
Street art is a term that is used to describe non-writer artists that do their work outside in public places with or without permission. Although, painting murals is one of the things I enjoy the most, it is not the only medium I use (Video, photography, mixed media etc..) So, I would use the term “artist” since it’s more general.

Define “particle style”?
The “particle style” I developed is a way to create a narrative from the symbols and shapes I’m currently using on my murals. Sometimes I imagine what if I was to take out a blood sample from one of my “pieces” and look at it with a microscope, what would it look like. I looked up images of amoebas, science schematics, space pictures etc.. and use it as reference.

It keeps me entertained, I like drawing letters, but I’ve done a lot of that, so I wanted to come up with something different that could evolve into something unexpected. The more I work on it the more I find new ways to do it. I’m creating “atari” like battles, in witch these different particles laser each other out. I mix that with some funky colors and there you go.

When you make one of your creations, what exactly are you trying to communicate? Are you telling a story, are you just having fun? Are you documenting?
All of the above. Right now I’m really into documentation. I have an ongoing photography series dedicated to documenting cement inscriptions; it started with wanting to work outside my studio while riding bike. I first started taking pictures in Wynwood, I took pictures of 375 cement inscriptions in that area. Some dating back to the 1950′s. Then, I started documenting palm tree’s inscriptions, after that started taking pics of cement inscriptions in Miami Beach. Once I get enough pictures I print and mount them one next to each other like a collage, then glue them to doors as my canvas. The next two series are going to involve chewing gum on the floor and construction guides spray painted on the floor.

1+3+1= ? What’s the story behind the prime numbers?
Those are numbers I like using as subject matter for my work. Always liked how math could be used to describe almost everything. Or how binary codes are able to do amazing things.

You had a very successful past: ArtBasel having several exhibits of your work up at the time. What has been most epic point of your career? When can you proclaim your self “successful”?
Success is overrated.

Join Gustavo this Friday at BAC for the “In the Yard” art show or
Saturday at J.G Platform for “Sauvage” art group exhibit.

Find more of 131 Projects at
www.131projects.com

Tokidoki

Sometimes… it’s the beginning of an unknown adventure. Sometimes it’s also what Tokidoki means in Japanese. According to designer and creative director Simone Legno “everyone waits for moments that change one’s destiny, by chance or by meeting a new person (…) [sometimes] something magical will happen to us.”

In 2003 something magical happened to us indeed. It was the creation of Tokidoki, a Japanese inspired brand based in LA dipping everything it touches into color, cute figurines and digitalized contemporary Japanese gals. A universe of characters and a mixture of feelings and emotions represented by the pop art stencils of Italian artist, Simone Legno.

::DESIGNER PROFILE::

WFK: Current obsession
Soccer, designing characters
WFK: Favorite music
Punk Rock
WFK: Favorite city
Tokyo
WFK: Favorite activities
Boxing, drawing, soccer
WFK: What makes you happy?
Seeing my family happy
WFK: Describe TKDK style
Duality, existence, sexy and pure, serious and funny, eastern and western, bad and fun.
WFK: What other brands do you like?
Fendi
WFK: What other artist do you admire?
Banksy, Aya Takano

–

:: FACT SHEET ::

What:: Tokidoki
When:: Launched in 2003
Where:: www.tokidoki.it
What else:: Collaborations with Karl Lagerfeld, LeSportsac, Onitsuka Tiger,
Marvel, New Era, Hello Kitty, Fujitsu, Levi’s, Smashbox cosmetics,
Xbox, T-mobile, Fornarina, Skullcandy and Medicom Toy.
Who:: For men and women and kids
Designer:: Simone Legno

Dangered

Two heads work better than one, and wise minds think alike. Those are statements that can be applied to twin brothers Troy and Rory Coppock. These are two Canadian gentlemen in love with the earth. They grew up in atmospheres that allowed them to appreciate their plane tby camping, surfing and fishing after breathing.

Troy and Rory think alike and work together making an awesome team that came up with Dangered, a lifestyle clothing line for men and women. But what’s cooler from this surfer blood and planet-loving fashion line is their contribution to our planet. A 3% to 5% of sales are given back to global conservation organizations like WWF.

Troy and Rory are true believers that two heads work better than one, that’s why their aim with Dangered is to “raise human impact on the planet” and create awareness amongst everyone else. Let’s join them!

::Wasabi Hot Pick::

Summer dresses
Love your Wolrd Tanks

Men’s Tees

::DESIGNER PROFILE::

WFK: What’s your current obsession?
T&R: Our planet. All about raising awareness
WFK: Favorite music?
T&R: Reggae, good beats –house, country
WFK: Favorite City?
T&R: Vancouver, Hong Kong
WFK: Favorite Activities?
T&R: Golf, snowboarding, bike rides, camping, fishing, surfing.

–

:: FACT SHEET ::

What:: Dangered, created to raise awareness
Where:: www.dangered.com
What else:: Tees, Polos, Hoodies,
tanks, summer dresses, shorts, button shirts
Who:: For men and women
Designer:: Troy & Rory

When you meet Aban Sonia, one thing is for sure– you will be going places. The conversation with the fashion lady, mastermind and creative director may start in Miami, but due to her world knowledge, music taste and projects, your mind will surely wonder from coast to coast. Not to mention her creative vision and magical set productions that can make any type of paradise appear in front of your eyes in a matter of seconds. And that just with the mere help of a thrift store.

The thing more magical than Aban Sonia herself, is the kind of high you feel when you work with her. She will do such things to your soul, that you’d wish to pack yourself up, and go around the world with her. Ms. Sonia is a constant reminder that nothing is impossible, and that inspiration will take you places which you never imagined of visiting.

She is the collector, aesthetic producer, demonstrator and director of Artisans Agency. Behind all those godly talents, who are you, Aban Sonia?
A Pakistani tomboy with two amazing brothers, an angel for a mother, a funny looking monster of a dog, a sick infatuation with Cowboys, a weakness for low frequencies/ bass/ violin/ and an acoustic guitar, a cynic with a sense of humor to be rivaled, someone who loves too much, takes too little, lives en route, fantasizes about being naked on a private island where I’ll grow crops and raise my family. A voyeur, destroyer, a creator, a Leo. Curiosity kills me time and time again. Truth seeker. A believer in the unifying power of the lemniscate.

You have lived all over the globe– from London, to San Diego. From Texas to Philly, and then Miami. Not to mention, you are from Karachi, Pakistan. Which of those cities offer you the cozy, warm and sentimental feeling of being at “home”?
It’s a definite toss up between Philadelphia and Miami. And although I have yet to live there full-time–New York. I love the people I have in all of those cities. Philadelphia is home. My nephew lives there with his mother, my younger cousin,who’s like a sister to me.I love seeing all my relatives and childhood friends whenever I go back to Philly.
Miami is home because I love being here. It’s a vacation–everyday. The weather is pure magic. The clear skies and sunsets are unparalleled. The nightlife–alive.
New York is my second home. My best friends all live there. My work and creative spirit thrives in the environment. The energy of the everyday hustle is addicting. I guess the only obvious solution for me is to continue to travel to keep my inner gypsy satisfied.

How was Artisans Agency created?
Artisans Agency is a team of creative masterminds that grew organically over time. Having worked in the industry for over 6 years, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with some of the top producing artists and imaginative minds in the world. Through the progression, we’ve developed invaluable relationships and find ourselves working together even during “off” time. This undying passion and need to constantly create, inspired the creation of something we knew the industry needed.

The Agency [www.ArtisansAgency.com] was officially born about a year ago, and in short, is a one-stop creative production house that fills an obvious void in the industry. Our objective is to provide clients with innovative artists & professionals with reputable resume’s and mind-blowing portfolios. We resource and represent top artisans specializing within the realms of fashion, film, fine art, music, live performance / theatre, as well as working one-on-one with individual clients. I realize that may be a bit much for some to digest, but this isn’t your average production company, we’re an agency that encompasses all. We have a great hands-on system and field directors that keep our artists fresh, exciting, and inspired.

Any closed doors on your way?
I wouldn’t call them closed doors, but there have definitely been a few hurdles along the way. Besides, a closed door means it’s time to sneak out of the cracked window.

You are a young entrepreneur and restless creative soul. Your professional life has its nose all over the production and management of fields like photography, fashion, TV, film, graphic design and entertainment. –What exactly feeds your creative hunger, from that industry, that keeps you excited for more?
Constant change. I’m an advocate for change. Still water collects bacteria. I say it all the time: If you don’t evolve and experience rebirth often, you’re not growing.
I love having the ability to create something brand new every time I work. No two projects are ever the same. And in life, no two experiences should ever really be the same.

After all you have done, hands you have shaken, models you have dressed; what’s next on your dream’s agenda?
A few tricks and treats here and there.
One of the things you can expect to see from me in the near future is a community-based project known as M.E.R.G.E – MURALS. {Mending. Environment & Revolutionary. Generations. Everyday} M.E.R.G.E is a project set to launch locally in Miami early 2011. We have local and international, street and fine artists coming out to donate their work and time to create beautiful murals in inner-city, under-developed neighborhoods. Our goal with M.E.R.G.E Murals is to be the link between community, creative, and corporate. To bridge the gaps and create beautiful, free art. Our first mural is set to be the “Infinite Project.”
Along with that, I’m currently working with TREEHOUSE, Miami’s new swanky clubhouse-like place to be. The décor is raw and inspired by the elements, yet still exceptionally luxurious. We’re looking to redefine the ideology behind Miami’s nightlife with this culturally stimulated hotspot located in the heart of South Beach. We’re introducing the venue with a soft, private opening this month and an official launch in January.

What’s the most important thing for Aban Sonia to declare herself a successful woman? Is success a moment, a mind state? Have you reached it yet?
Success could be defined as few things.I would say it’s all relative.
For me personally, respect & admiration from my peers & family. Creative freedom.
To earn the right to wake up one day and want to produce something absolutely insane and have no one stop me.
I think I’ll finally be able to relax a bit after I’ve produced a pre-meditated string of controversial documentaries, inspiring exhibitions, murals, and sculptures, develop educational institutions within indigent countries, and of course, launch M.E.R.G.E  MURALS, Project Second Skin, our ready-to-wear Men’s collection with Overthrow, and a future partnered project with the Borscht Film Festival.

What’s fashion for you?
Expression. It’s an art form for me before anything else. And all art is a form of expression. To clearly convey how the subject feels or thinks in that exact moment. When done earnestly with honesty, you’ll feel as good as you look. That to me, is fashion.

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Wasabi Girl Power Quiz:

-Miami tastes like:LUST
-Romanticism is necessary for: Good Stories. Sailing freely through clouds.
-I am proud of my: Mother. Because she’s the strongest, smartest, most beautiful person I know. My brothers.. because they’re wizards.
-I can’t live with out: My Brothers.
-What is Wasabi? A wicked collection of everything you need to see, taste, touch, and listen to.Wasabi is that fire you need in your life. A spark from a marvelous, colorful, flame.
-The best kiss is like: Magic. You trade souls back and forth and back again ‘til you’re one being. If done right,you move forward.
-Top 5 music wise: Caligula, Nero, Gaslamp Killer, Johnny Cash, Leonard Cohen, Dolly Parton (sorry, had to sneak her in there).
-A hidden quality: Hidden for a reason. You’ll see soon enough.
-Favorite cartoon: Betty Boop –Obvious reasons.
-What do you wear to feel sexy? Nothing.
-Freedom in your own words: No preconceived notions, no judgment, no lies, no worries.Free land.

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Stay tuned with Aban Sonia and her marvelous creations and contributions to; TREEHOUSE Grand Opening in January; NYFW : NAHM Fashion Show in NYC – February and keep an eye on The Overthrow Castle during March / WMC and ULTRA weeks

www.AbanSonia.com
www.twitter.com/AbanSonia
www.TheOverthrow.com
www.ArtisansAgency.com
www.TreeHouseMiami.com

Brian Butler, a graphic artist or “amateur cryptozoologist” –like he calls himself; with an obsession for miniature golf, music and ice cream people. After touring his home state Massachusetts accompanied with his wife and playing in every mini golf course, Butler started noticing a frozen underground movement that caught his creative gene: the existence of the Ice Cream People!

Butler started documenting the apeareance of his frozen lactose friends, and last week at KidRobot, he presented the exhibit “The Ice Cream People” A Collection of evidence. He showcased some of these half-human, half ice cream hybrids drawn from the stencils of artists like Shepard Fairey and Anthony Liester. A wall with a repeated waffle cone template was also displayed to invite the guests of this frozen experience to create their own ice cream friend. Yep- we are proving they are real!

WFK interviewed the man responsible for this gathering. See below Brian Butler through the Wasabi lens.

“Kult View” with Brian Butler; a chat with the artist and his creative endeavors.

Found out more at:
www.icecreampeople.org
www.theupperhandart.com

Is not always size that matters, and it doesn’t have to a visible in your face kind-o thing to be noticeable. Pride, confidence and pantalones are worn on the heart, and when you do your spirit shines, your energy spreads and your path rises towards the sun. That’s the case of Priscilla Jade, a woman that is not afraid to talk about her lingerie –though the color of her panties is still a secret. Priscilla is the headmaster behind Lingerie by Priscilla Jade, custom and intimate clothing collection made with confidence for woman that only need themselves to feel sexy and triumphant. Is not about size, it doesn’t have to be visible, just dress your heart with the Jade.

Besides the fashion designer, ultra creative young entrepreneur Priscilla Jade, who are you?
I’m a student of life. If I can learn five things a day, I’m happy. I love a simple life. Sitting by my widow with my dogs or getting a handwritten letter in the mail from my 8 year old sister or walking in a museum alone to let my mind wonder.  I surround myself with genuine, positive, inspiring people.  I am very fortunate to have what i have and want people to see how little things can change lives. Everyone should start giving back to those who are less fortunate and appreciate the simplest things.

What were your dreams and aspiration as a child? How have they changed as you grow up…
I grew up with homemade arts and crafts.  As an only child I found anything around the house to make something. Imagination was my best friend. I wanted to be an astronaut and a tornado chaser. My route to the sky and moon is a little different now that im older.

What are your dreams/goals now?
Ultimately I want every woman to be confident.  From their body image to holding that big CEO position in a major corporation. We can sometimes feel that we aren’t good enough just as we are. I think a sexy bra and panty underneath puts an extra bounce in your step.

Why did you choose intimate clothing as your medium for design as opposed to regular clothing or even swimwear?
I admire and find inspiration in other designers. I’ve been fascinated with lingerie since I was 8 years old.  It was a right of passage I couldn’t wait for. Its your secret identity underneath your clothes.  It’s private and intimate. Some women don’t realize the power we hold with just our sexuality. I get to create that super suit for every type of woman.

Your lingerie collections have this je ne se qua from the 1940’s. Were does this classic retro style come from?
Women have come along way in society.  In the 1940s women busted out with their full figures and big smiles. It’s most recognizable for women taking charge in industries such as film, music and pop culture. Icons like Betty Paige and Katherine Hepburn paved the way for women for decades even today. I find inspiration in that persona and try to translate that in all of my designs.

What’s the most important thing for you to be successful in any field?
Passion, drive and confidence. You have to work hard for what you want and love. No one else will get it for you. Nothing is impossible.

Have you encountered any closed doors in your career? How did you overcome them?
If you have passion and drive there is always a way to make it work.  What is meant to be in your life will come to you when its right.  I have had to learn to take no for an answer.  Keep your head up and look in another direction.  It hasn’t been easy building a brand that started in my first semester of design school. I have gained respect and admiration from peers because I keep going.

When preparing for a fashion show, as the coming “Jar of Hearts Noir Collection 2011” at Grand Central, what’s the most important thing for you? What can we expect this Saturday?
It’s a direction I haven’t taken with my company. Its edgier, and much more sexy than what I have done before. I want people to see that re-vamping a brand takes risks. Risks im willing to take with each new collection.  When I meet people and talk about what I do, I listen. Men and women’s desires and needs inspire my work.

“Jar of Heart” is a homage to all of your ex-lovers, can you share with our readers and broken hearts why is this important?
I’m just like every girl out there looking for love. They aren’t alone.  I’m not a socialite going to fancy dinners with the “it” guy in town. They are my stories from my lingerie diaries. I have had the good, REAL good, the bad and the ugly. None of them ever bought me lingerie.  I bought it for myself.  You don’t need a man to make you feel sexy and confident. It should come from inside no matter how many times your heart has been broken. If a man truly loves you, nothing will stop him. Ultimately this collection is my way of translating my love, loss and heartaches and what I have learned along the way. You do not need a man to make you feel sexy and the NOIR Collection tells my story. I envisioned, designed & created every undergarment in this collection and I can honestly say that this is my most proud moment to date.

As a last thing, what color reigns on your underwear drawer?
That’s top secret information.

Priscilla Jade’ Website
Catch Priscilla Jade this Saturday at Grand Central for the premier
of “Jar of Hearts Noir Collection 2011″ and Fashion Show

Meet the girl that will seduce you with a smile and win your trust instantly. Meet the woman whose professionalism will have your eyebrow reach the sky and your mouth drag onto the floor simultaneously. It just takes one second to watch her on her stage and realize her heavenly aptitudes, the way she dances with her brushes on your face, the way she plays and mixes color, the way she levitates around you doing what she knows best. Meet the artist whose hands will make you her slave forever. Meet Lymari Veloz, a make-up artist and hair stylist whose creativity and talent is unstoppable, immeasurable and priceless.

A sweet rock fairy with edge and charisma, she is capable of managing a pole-to-pole clientele. She can deal with a conservative mind or with an extroverted rebel. She gets her job done like no other. She always has and always will.

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How did you first discover that you wanted to be a hair and make-up artist? How long ago have you been in this industry?
I’ve been in this industry my whole life. I was born and grew up in a beauty salon. I like to bring to life everything that I sketch and paint. I’m in love with that process.

Your mother is a hair stylist and owns her own shop. How big is her impact on your life?
My mother is my everything. She always pushed me to be as artistically free as possible. She let me created whatever vision I had and taught me that nothing is impossible.

Are you the woman that you dreamt about when you were a little girl?
I believe I’m getting there.

What artists have influenced your artist path?

Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol are some of my favorite. As I grew in the 80’s music also took a big roll as part of my inspiration, artists like Souxie and the Banshees, Blondie, Madonna. But what has impacted me the most is seeing men wear glam rock make-up like David Bowie. That proved to me the endless possibilities of the art of make-up and hair. It’s timeless and genderless.

What difficulties have you encountered as a contemporary artist when it comes to apply your artsy skills?
Sometimes I feel I have to hold back on my creativity, not many people are open-minded or appreciate what’s different.

Who would you die for to stylize their hair or do their make-up?
Lady-Gaga

Aside from this fashion and beauty industry you are in, what else interests you?
Art is my life! But I also love to travel, to see places I’ve never thought of before. I also like to fish, ride motorcycles and to paint.

It seems that passion is one powerful motor that keeps you going everyday. What else is essential to be a successful artist like yourself?
To be successful is to love what you do. If you don’t, then you haven’t found what’s going to make you successful.

If we have to erase the words “make-up artist” and “hair styling” from the dictionary, how would you describe what you do?
A visionary. I create, it stars from my heart the to my brain then to paper and then I bring it to life.
–

:::Girl Power Quiz

-Miami tastes like what?
Pina Coladas and Sun Tan Lotion
-Romanticism is necessary for
Excitement. To keep the blood flowing
-I am proud of my
My mother. She let’s me be who I am
-I can’t live without …
Color. Black and White can get boring.
-What is Wasabi?
Hot, spicy, the yummiest, like my interviewer right now.
-The best kiss is…
To die for. I don’t care if I run of breath while kissing.
-Top 5 music wise:
Florence and the Machines, Rosin Murphy, Sally Shapiro, Billie Holiday, Goldfrapp.
-A hidden quality:
Cooking. It’s a secret
-Favorite cartoon . . .
Bart Simpson. I want a son like him and I will still love him.
-What do you wear to feel sexy?
Boots. There’s something about the boots
-Freedom in your own words:
Life, how I live my life!

It’s a fact that women are a species that is superior to men. This is not feminist statement but a natural observation of the human species; women give birth, men don’t. The word ‘woman’ is synonymous with the words ‘mother’ and ‘protection’ and deserve the respect and admiration of their supplementary sex/gender; men.
Now, when we talk about Jessica Gross, besides of having a charming smile, seductive face and legs for miles, she has a gift that will make her step up on the scale in comparison to other women: she can make people laugh. So men, take off your hats for comedian Jessica Gross. Pick some flowers and review your pick up lines, because these lady’s wits are hard to match.

How would you describe what you do? I touch people, not like actually touch people, but in a way that makes people laugh. That didn’t come out right.

Is comedy something that you have cherished all your life? Or was it a sudden knock-on-your-door? For me, comedy started out as a way to make friends; I loved hearing people laugh. After a few unexpected turns in life, around age 24, comedy, as a career, came knocking at my door. I couldn’t help but open that door to see where it might lead me.

Please tell us what went through your mind when you first dared yourself to step up to the mic and make people laugh. The first time I stepped up to the mic, a little voice inside me said, “Jessica, whatever you do, no matter how bad it gets, just don’t vomit.”

What do you generally talk about when you are on the stage? What is the process that you go through to obtain a successful joke? I usually stick to all of those wonderful awkward situations that happen in everyday life. My boyfriend reminds me, “Hey write that down, that’s a joke!” He usually says it in a weird deep voice, like in some way, his version of his voice is different than his actual voice.

How intertwined is your comedy with your personal life and vice versa? It’s not really intertwined, it just wraps around a lot, like a cinnamon bun.

What are, quote-unquote, Jessica Gross “Stuff that makes you sing and dance? Stuff that makes you laugh and cry? Stuff that makes you think?” This question.

You have taken the role of an entertainer. How often are you a spectator and how do you, yourself, find entertainment? As much as possible; watching comedy is now my education. I can only grow as a comedian by learning new and exciting techniques, like a stripper.

What is, according to your discretion, what makes people laugh? “Pain. There is no comedy in Heaven, all comedy comes from pain.” Mark something wrote that, or Sam, or William. Sounds like something a William would say.

–

Wasabi’s Girl Power Quizz::

-Miami tastes like what? Warm Beer; delicious warm beer.
-Romanticism is necessary for . . .  ? I probably would have lost a spelling bee to that word.
-I am proud of my . . . Boobs. Wait! I went straight for boobs, you’re never supposed to go straight for boobs. My clavicle, damn it’s sexy.
-I can’t live without . . . My adorable Beagle, Maynard. Shot out to my Dawg!
-What is Wasabi? Is a delicious ingredient in Prometheus Springs, one of the most amazing beverages I have ever tasted. Plug!
-The best kiss is like . . . Who is asking this ? Tiger Beat??
-Top 5 music wise: Raffa & Rainer, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Nouvelle Vague,  Regina Spektor, and Lemon Jelly
-A hidden quality: If I tell you, it wouldn’t be hidden. Well played miss, well played.
-Favorite cartoon . . . “Will you still love me if I wet the bed” by Liz Prince
-What do you wear to feel sexy? Plaid. I feel sexy and willing to cut down trees
-Freedom in your own words:
F is for Fritters
R is for  Radishes
E is for Eggs
E is for Eggplant
D is for Dill
O is for Onion
M is for Mango

To see more of Jessica::
Casa de Haha @ Sweat Records every second Tuesday of the month
Casa de la Tula in Little Havana every Wednesday
Uva on Thursdays
www.jessicaisgross.com
www.jessicagrosscomedy.com
www.cafepress.com/jessicaisgross

Lauren Reskin and her strawberry shortcake hair, magnetized looks, ingenuity and smile. While noticing her vintage dress and her vegan leather purse, and over an organic espresso at Sweat Records, you ask her, “how are you?” “I’m always good,” is what you get for an answer. Her smile pops brightly, her red hair glimmers and her self-taught make up techniques adorning her hazel eyes make you feel like you need a retouch on your eye shadow (She’s that good!).

Lolo, as her friends call her, is a precious diamond to Miami’s indie culture, she opened her Sweat Records musical castle of rare vinyls and rock and roll cult classics store in 2005 and since then her love for music and records evolved into an empire of underground happenings and cultural gatherings.

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What does one have to study to become Lolo? What’s the timeline of your successful music/entrepreneurship career?
From high school on I was working in college radio, doing street rep work for indie record labels, and when I was 16 I started working at Virgin and stayed there for six years.  My first DJ residency was at 17 (the golden era of Poplife at Picadilly), I co-promoted a major night at 19 (Revolver), had my own party by 21 (Vice at Soho).  Sweat opened when I was 22 and it’s all been multiplying exponentially from there.  I went to college for a few years studying Music Business but I was already doing it in the real world so I took a “semester off” and never looked back.

How did you picture yourself when you were a child, what was it that you wanted to grow up to be?
When I was a kid I wanted to be everything from a marine biologist to a lawyer, but I always loved music and was always entrepreneurial so what I’m doing now feels pretty right on.

What were some of the inconveniences and closed doors you encountered while pursuing your goals, and what where those goals you wanted to achieve no matter what?
Inconveniences and closed doors are just hurdles you have to figure out how to jump.  My biggest goal so far was opening the shop, and since we’re five years on now I can focus on the bigger goals we have for the future.

Are your achievements and recognition as an essential jewel of Miami a result of your perseverance and hard work? How much does luck have to do with your success?
Not sure if I believe in luck per se, but there is definitely something to be said for creating your own reality.   I have a fairly ridiculous work ethic and have put in the energy and hours to be where I am today.

Besides your DJing skills and indie rock savvy mind, Wasabi is very impressed by the beautiful rainbow and gradient eye shadows that decorate your eyes, how long ago did make up rub off on you and how did you manage to achieve your make up skills?
I always loved color and wanted to dye my hair unnatural shades all the way back to kindergarten.  In high school not a day went by where I didn’t have sparkly eye shadow and glitter on, but everything changed when my best friend Sara took me to a Mac Pro Store for the first time.  I got into brushes, pigments, blending… it’s a way I get to be creative in my daily life.

Sweat Records is also known to be an organic and vegan friendly café, and you are known to be a vegetarian by your current blog in Miami New Times, “Meatless Miami” is this just a diet or a life style? How is this connected to your beliefs?
I went vegetarian at age 12 and am currently vegan.  It’s based on beliefs first, but the diet and lifestyle benefits are undeniable.  More than anything I am angry at the meat/dairy industries for their complete lack of compassion in favor of the bottom line.  The tiniest changes would lower animal suffering immensely but they don’t do it because it would cost them a fraction of a fraction of a cent.  But I love being vegan – discovering and eating amazing foods, having tons of energy and basically never having to worry about weight or nutrients because I eat a colorful, balanced diet.  More and more people are telling me lately that they’re reducing the amount of meat they eat, which I am always happy to hear.

What is a typical Monday to Friday (Sunday?) work schedule on Lolo’s agenda?
I wake up earlier than most people would expect and work on emails and the Sweat blog and computer stuff from home.  During the week I take meetings and come in for several shifts at the shop.  Being physically active keeps me sane so I’ll do yoga, running, or CrossFit a few times a week.  Friday nights I’m at The Vagabond, which is always a great time.  We just started Sunday Vegan Brunch at Sweat so you can expect to see me there on the regular as well.   It sounds like a pretty full schedule but I still manage to relax here and there and spend time with my friends.

What is your current state of mind and what is something that makes you smile?
2010 has already felt more positive than last year for some reason.  What’s making me smile lately is all the comments I hear about how much of a community Miami feels like.  It lets me know that things are on the right track.

–

Girl Power Quizz

-Miami tastes like what? Why? Mango season and avocado season, mmm…
-Romanticism is necessary for . . . Everything.  The world we live in is an amazing place with infinite possibilities and it’s important not to lose sight of that.
-I am proud of my . . . Level-headedness, it keeps me balanced.
-I can’t live with out . . . My friends.  They are some of the most incredibly kind, creative, warm, funny and smart people on this planet.
-What is Wasabi? The perfect compliment for veggie rolls.
-The best kiss is like . . . Heady, potent, pristine… the entire world ceasing to exist outside the two of you.
-Top 5 music-wise: Blur, Serge Gainsbourg, Prince, The Shins, Portishead. The Smiths, Belle & Sebastian, Outkast, Aphex Twin, Lush… I own a record store, you cannot expect me to have just five.
-Hidden qualities: I am incredibly loyal.  I do crossword puzzles in pen.
-Favorite cartoon . . . Dave Millionaire’s MAAKIES comics are hilariously antiquated and misanthropic.
-What do you wear to feel sexy? I’m particularly partial to black underwear and a very subtle amount of perfume dabbed onto the pulse points.
-Freedom in your own words… Not feeling bound by society’s shoulds and shouldn’ts.  I’m not purposefully contrary by any means but I feel liberated from giving a damn about other people’s expectations, and that lets me focus instead on the high standards I set for myself.

Catch Lolo at Sweat Rocords, or at The Vagabond every Friday
www.sweatrecordsmiami.com
5505 NE 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33137
Tel. (786) 693-9309
info@sweatrecordsmiami.com

GTA, MIA, NY (Bogota, Miami, New York)

Little Ramonas are a three-headed dragon of femme fatale. One slays NY (Paula Beltran), another holds captive GTA (Mariana Puerta) and the other burns up MIA (Camila Saldarriaga). Their skin melts together composing an animal ready to spread fire and make some noise with their styling, production and art direction skills, a.k.a. pussy power. You can certainly dance to it like Joey Ramone was on the radio. Punk blood definitely runs through a Ramona’s body.

These girls have created their own government where fashion rules and creativity colors their constitution. They are their own revolution making fashion, music, art, photography and culture a little bit more rock and a little bit more roll. They rule the three cities with their vintage/Doors/Rolling Stone signature look. They’ve taken history by the horns and are riding it hard, leaving a legend behind with their vintage fashion happenings. Hail to Little Ramonas!

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How do girls that live in three different cities (Bogota, New York and Miami) come together?
At first, MIA Ramona and NY Ramona managed an Ebay vintage store. Around two years ago (2008) we met GTA Ramona at a party in New York. While dancing, we discovered we shared similar passions and visions. We became fast friends and have been connected ever since, sharing our philosophy based on the power of love, nature and the wellness of our planet. We live apart but distance is not as big an issue as you may think, thanks to Skype, Gmail and the net.

Besides fashion, what else do you have in common?
Music, photography, flea markets, concerts, art, parks, winters, everglades, sales, nature, friends, love, happiness!

What are Little Ramonas exactly? A stylist house, a production company, a photo studio, a fashion blog site? An all-of-the-above kinda thing? What would be that one word that unifies your service.
We can be described as a cool-hunting community of art, music, design, and innovation. We exchange ideas with minds we admire. We just do what we love and that involves a lot of different things such as styling, photography, blogging, interviewing, photo shoot collaborations, and always playing our favorite music.

Where does a Ramona find inspiration?
A lot of mediums inspire us-Ramonas. As young-emerging artists we find inspiration almost everywhere; in music, also from positive energy, inspiring artists, and our friends and family, to the cities we have had the chance to visit. We find a great amount of inspiration from each Ramona, and that is why we are so well-connected to each other.

What magazines would be essential for your library?
Purple Mag, vintage Vogue Paris, Self-Service, Uk Amelias Magazine, FLy Mag, Dazed Magazine, I Love You.

What came first, fashion or music?
They come hand in hand! Fashion inspires music and music inspires fashion.

To what type of person does a Ramona speak to, and what is the universal message behind your work and aesthetics?
We speak to all the girls and boys that like fashion, music, and have an easy-going positive attitude about life. Little Ramonas’s universal message would be: Recycling the Chic Way. We use vintage clothes, second hand, and new clothes too, but we respect our planet on top of-it-all. We talk to people that let us deliver a positive message, we exchange and share culturally innovative ideas. In other words, girls and boys like you and me.

Who is a fashion icon for LR?
Terry Richardson, Patti Smith, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Stella McCartney, Levi Strauss, Coco Chanel, Vera Wang, Vivienne Westwood, Calvin Klein, Mick Jagger, Gustavo Cerati, Andrea Echeverri, David Lynch, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain. They all have their own personal style, aesthetic, and impact on society. To us they are gods of love, passion, music, creativity and hard work.

What’s your motto?

Be Live in Love.

—

Girl Power Quizz::

Miami tastes like what?
MIA:: Sugar, sugar. Honey, honey.
NY:: Coconut Water. A little bit of extra sugar for a sweet tropical atmosphere.
GTA:: “Fresh squeezed orange juice” It has the best sunrise ever.

Romanticism is necessary for . . .
MIA:: Inspiration, it’s an alley-way to creation.
NY:: That “WOW” and that SIGHT we all love to experience.
GTA:: I’m not sure it’s necessary.

I am proud of . . .
MIA:: Gustavo Cerati, for becoming the master of Spanish rock n’ roll.
NY:: Family, friends, and all the amazing spiritual teachers I’ve had growing up.
GTA:: My killer cat, my dad, my friends, my Ramonas, myself, my work, my life… everything! I think you just have to be proud of who you are.

I can’t live with out . . .
MIA:: Music. I need music while I take a shower, while I paint my nails, while I work, during my sleep.
NY:: Nature! Green grass, blue skies, refreshing rain, foggy atmospheres, clean water, palm trees!
GTA:: Love, music and wataaaaaaaar! That’s what you need to make it through an awesome concert! Water is the best, music and love just make people happy!

What is Wasabi? MIA:: An amazing girl who has passion and is a great example of women power and achievements. Mrs. Pamela Wasabi
NY:: Green spicy flavor
GTA:: That Japanese spicy green “play-doh”! It’s the best!  I love it with gyosas and on top of a sushi roll.

The best kiss is like . . .MIA:: A cosmic epic experience, not too easy to find.
NY:: Transcending to another world. Forgetting everything and jumping on a magical carpet ride.
GTA:: :*

Top 5 music wise:
MIA:: These month’s fav, FM Belfast’s Tropical, Lindstrom & Christabelle’s LoveSick, Astro’s Hongo Atomico, Midnight Juggernauts’s Get Connected, Pernett feat. Lido Pimienta & Quantic Cover New Order’s “Blue Monday”
NY:: Federico Aubele’s Maria Jose, BT Express’s Keep it Up, Chico Mann’s Dilo Como Yo, Two Man Sound’s Que Tal America, Silver Convention’s Fly Robin Fly.
GTA:: David Bowie’s Rebel, Rebel, Mary Jane Girls’s Boys, Etta James’ Tough, Gratefull Dead’s Cream Puff War, Jimi Hendrix’s Red House.

A hidden quality:
MIA:: “Everything Ramona.mia (The golden fox) touches turns into gold” Ramona.ny
NY:: Dreaming while being awake.
GTA:: I’m brutally honest. It gets me into trouble. But I love that!

Favorite cartoon . . .
MIA:: Toy Story, can’t wait to see # 3.
NY:: Popeye The Sailor Man that eats lots of spinach, has a healthy mind, a healthy life style and a beautiful wife.
GTA:: Marvin the Martian, Pepe le piu, Edna Moda… there’s too many I can’t choose, I just love them all!

What do you wear to feel sexy?
MIA:: You should always feel sexy with what ever you have on.  Even with a white t-shirt and boy shorts.
NY:: I wear my brightest-positive smile to feel sexy and make others feel the same. If you’re a happy person and you’re smiling as you read this, consider yourself a sex machine.
GTA:: Nothing… Don’t ask why

Freedom in your own words:
MIA:: Sadly, we think we live in freedom but we don’t. I view freedom as my own state of mind; I chose my freedom and my path. “Freedoms is a possibility only if you’re able to say no.” The whitest boy alive.
NY:: Creating the path, walking it, and finding yourself at the end of the road. Mental freedom! There is no light without darkness.
GTA:: Mental freedom! That’s the only thing that’s free these days, I enjoy it! It helps you think and do something about it; create, design…

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