Black History Month
This year I wanted to celebrate Black History Month in a different way. As a Black Creative a lot of the times we aren't given our flowers of respect until we are long gone. I wanted to change that by highlighting amazing artist within the Chicago community. For the last ten days of Black History month I highlighted an artist from a different medium each day.It was given great success and I am looking to expand on this project next year in the same way, but also as something physical.
Shaundric Maan
A man of many talents. He truly does it all from rapping, hosting, and even being a barista. Shaundric’s newest adventure is even dabbling in architecture. You can catch Shaundric hosting monthly open mic events across the Southside of Chicago. Or my particular favorite help co-host the amazing Fi-Fi parties for the Black Community. I was truly amazed at how eager and passionate Shaundric is about making sure the Black community feel safe and have a safe place to go to. Please catch one of his various events or stream his music.
Khaliyah X
A true legend another name to remember is Khaliyah X, she has one of the sweetest voices, that when you hear her sing you have no choice but to listen. She is truly Chicago’s Princess. This has really been her year she’s been putting in the work and staying grounded. From singing the national anthem at the Chicago' Bulls game to now traveling to different cities to leave her mark. Please support her at her shows, stream her music and just keep your eyes out on this star in the making.
Justus Cornelius Pugh
A Southside story teller, whose main focus is his connection to his Ancestors. This is one smooth brother who considers himself an Afro-transcendental. Afro transcendentalism refers to the way we use inter-generational storytelling, looking at the past, present, future and imaginings. Please step out to his open mic events and be prepared to be melted by every word spoken.
Kelcey Mac
Kelcey Mac, is a freelance photographer with a focus in movement in storytelling. Giving a platform to individuals and organizations of athletes, runners, dancers and artist with untold stories the opportunity to share their own.
Please support Kelcey by following but also watching how she highlights her community through her own lens.
Izzy J.
Izzy is an amazing stylist who is able to take anything and turn it into something. You can run into Izzy at pop ups, depop, Jamble or one v one personal shopping. Izzy’s work is ensuring that plus sizes are included in feeling fly, and looking hot. I always joke with Izzy that she able to turn water into wine. But if you give her an idea she can make something that seems so far into a reality.
Destiny Brady
Destiny Brady is one of the most talented people I have gotten the chance to talk to. Destiny shared with me her love for art growing up and how she also had a knack for math. Her work merges both her loves together putting Black and Brown artwork in public space, to leave a trail mark of history. This year Destiny opened up her own practice ,”The Kids Are From the Future,” which will allow her to educate and lead younger generations into artistic endeavors. From architect to organizer, She has so many hands in different baskets, and yet does it with such passion. Destiny is the one that does it all please support her in all of her future events or even lend a helping hand to a new small business.
Adia Dew
Adia Dew is another one Chicago’s sweetest voices to every grace us. A singer and songwriter from the Southside leading the Neo-Soul and occasional R&B scene. Adia recently released a song ,” Love Drug,” featuring TJ strokes!! Adia has something that has been missing from music for a long time in my eyes it’s uniqueness. She able to motivate, and speak life into others with her music.
T-Star
Tandrea Hawkins better know as the iconic TStar. This woman does it all, including rapping, acting, dancing, being a entrepreneur, and modeling. My favorite about TStar is her ability to shine her light in any room she’s in. Please hire her for your gigs, or pop into one of her many concerts. She is a household name and is to not be forgotten.
Mari Garcia
Mari Garcia is an up and coming Black photographer with the ability to dynamic portraits and self portraits. I’m really intrigued by Mari use of color and play on props. As Mari is coming to their own please follow and support the creative work they do.
Lyric Newbern
Lyric Newbern is an up and coming portrait photographer. That is on the verge of an amazing rebirth. Lyric has inspired me by just watching them just go for not second guessing the work that they have put out there. You can see the confidence oozing through the work. Please book Lyric for amazing one of a kind portraits but also support their work on all of their platforms. I’m excited to see what they do in the future.
