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CONTENT

REAL VS FAKELIFESTYLE AND CULTURE

7 UNCOVERED - WHAT’S REAL?

14 ENTERTAINMENT NEWS - BEY AND JAY Z: IS IT REALLY OVER?

21 OFFRAMP - DEATH OF TRADITIONAL FASHION SHOWS?

26 SOUNDBOOTH - HIP HOP MEETS KWAITO

32 PIXELS - MOVIES

42 CREATIVE CHRONICLES - PLASTIC JESUS

44 SPOT ON - ELISHA MPOFU OF BOASTON SOCIETY: NURTURING CREATIVE TALENT

OPPORTUNITIES

54 OPPORTUNITIES

PURE ART

65 PURE ART REPORT - SEEING UGLY

66 PURE ART NEWS - BEWARE OF COLOUR

EXCEEDING . BRAND . EXCELLENCEmedia

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Ed's NoteKEEP IT REAL“The soul has illusions as the bird has wings: it is supported by them”- Victor Hugo.

Okay, so you remember when you were a kid, and your imagination was your best friend? How many of us actually grow out of that? My take is, not many of us do. Somehow we lean on our imaginations throughout life. I guess an important question is, ‘would art exist without imagination?’ We create illusions in our heads, seeing what we want to see and some of us use our talents to bring it to life.

Of course there is the opposite effect, where some have chosen a path of copying others’ masterpieces (Uncovered-What’s Real?). L.A. based street artist Plastic Jesus shares insight into what motivates his art with us (Creative Chronicles).

We also have lots of info about a jam-packed schedule this month for the arts in South Africa, with the Johannesburg Arts Alive Festival taking place first week of the month and the Fak’ugesi Digital Arts Festival setting Jozi ablaze with the best in digital, visual art, music and more. In our (Entertainment) feature we look at The Carter family drama and what experts really see, despite what they want the world to see.

An exhibition called ‘Dark City Dreams’ highlights the good that can be seen from Alexandra Township (Exhibitions), while our (Pure Art Report) touches on BDD. As Spring kicks off, this month is sure to have explosive events celebrating art and entertainment.

Remember to keep it real!

Signing Out

Phumi (@PHUMIT)

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Lifestyle + Culture

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Uncovered

WHAT’S REAL?

The phrase “keeping it real” has found a whole new level of relevance in the 21st century. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with getting some inspiration from fellow creative, but then again the art and entertainment industries have so many wannabes who are willing to “fake-it-till-they-make-it.” From fine art copy-cats to fame-hungry 20-somethings who want to be “actresses”, there are always people who are hungry for the spotlight. For some, putting these desires before their moral compass is second nature.

A Duchenne smile can get you a long way sometimes. But in the real world people usually see through illusions.

John Myatt’s life story reads like a movie script- which is probably why a script is currently being developed by some very clever people. Described by Scotland Yard as “the biggest art fraud of the 20th century,” he often makes the list of the most notorious art copycats in history.

Driven by the desire for more money to look after his children after his wife walked out on him, the art teacher tapped into his talent for mimicry. In 1983

he placed a classified advert in ‘Private Eye’ offering ‘Genuine Fakes for 150 and 200 Pounds.’ Three years later he created a painting in the style of Cubist painter Albert Gleizes. The painting was for Professor Drewe, who claimed to be a nuclear- physicist, for whom he had produced 14 paintings. Christies valued the piece at 25 000 Pounds, according to a phone call from Drewe.

“The crime was committed at the point I expressed an interest.”

This point led him down a path of painting 200 fakes from art history’s masters. He eventually stopped in 1993, but was caught two years later, after Drewe blew the whistle on the whole operation. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison and was released after four months for good behaviour.

In 2005 he had his first originals exhibition in London. He has also starred in a TV series called ‘Mastering the Art’ on which he shared some of his secrets on copying other peoples’ artwork.

Myatt’s story is interesting, considering that he got away with it for so long. But his talent isn’t unique to the world of fine art.

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Uncovered

KEEPING IT REAL!

Barcoded MagazineJohn Myatt

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Uncovered

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An L.A. based art dealer, Tatiana Khan was sued in 2010 after telling an artist friend that Picasso’s “La Femme Au Chapeau Bleu” had been stolen and paying her $1000 to recreate the work. Khan went on to sell the duplicated piece for an astounding $2 million to a naïve buyer.

To this day, when some of the biggest music scandals that have rocked the music industry are mentioned, the name Milli Vanilli often creeps up.

Recruited by Frank Farian as a marketing tool, the duo (real names Robert Pilatus and Fabrice Morvan) found fame after their hit single “Girl You Know It’s True” became popular. They eventually won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist on February 21, 1990, which was withdrawn 4 days later- following an expose by L.A Times author Chuck Philips, which revealed that lead vocals on the record were not the voices of Morvan and Pilatus.

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In the world of fashion, a scandal that has recently rocked the industry follows the alleged copyright infringement by South African designer Gavin Rajah. He was recently hauled over the coals on social networking site twitter following plagiarism allegations. One of his designs bore a striking resemblance to a dress designed by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad last year. The dress was part of Rajah’s collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Cape Town.

He later told Cape Times: “If I had seen that dress, I would never have put it into the collection because someone would see the association.

Independent producer of fashion events, Sim Tshabalala was the one who posted an image of the dresses on Instagram. He commented, “I can excuse maybe a student designer, but if a top designer in the country does something like that- what does that say about the state of the industry?”

Is there a logical explanation to why people have a need to copy sometimes?

A study published in Psychological Science in 2012 found that people only feel the urge to mimic each other when they have the same goal. Maybe, after all, on a sub-conscious level, there is actually something to artists who mimic- a deep desire to be better perhaps?

These industries thrive on creativity, however; innovative ideas and creations which can change the world. The Art world has definitely become richer from creative inventions- real, genius work. One can only hope for the scales to tip more towards a “real” direction more often.

By: Phumzile Twala

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Uncovered

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Entertainment news

BEY AND JAY Z: IS IT REALLY OVER?

ACCORDING TO A BODY LANGUAGE EXPERT, A PICTURE TRULY DOES TELL A THOUSAND WORDSWhen King Bey and hubby Jay Z smooched on stage at the 2014 MTV VMAs, it seemed like a blatant attempt to put a lid on the swirling rumours of their “alleged” pending divorce. The couple tried to present a united front.

The “Drunk in Love” singer was to be presented with the Video Vanguard Award at the ceremony, and to her surprise (or horror), hubby Jigga, carrying their daughter Blue Ivy, walked on stage to present her with the award. Some questioned the family’s appearance- some even questioning Bey’s shedding of tears- were they tears of joy for her award or of sadness over the unraveling of her six year marriage?

Body language expert Susan Constantine, who is based in Florida, interpreted the scene from video footage and an image. Her analysis is telling; explaining that she sees a lot of pain. “They’re just trying to save face. They feel no emotions toward each other.”

She adds that discovering how someone truly feels is about analyzing their “microexpressions”- brief, sometimes involuntary movements of the face that betray emotions.

Her analysis found:

Beyoncé’s face She’s giving a false smile. If she were really happy, her eyebrows would be lifted and her eyes would be more open.

Jay Z’s face This is what we call a flat face. There’s no expression whatsoever. Happiness would be indicated by upturned corners of the mouth. But he’s less strained than Beyoncé.

Eyes Neither one of them is looking at each other. Their interest is more in their daughter.

Beyoncé’s hand over midsection She’s blocking her stomach area — the home of emotions in the body — indicating a feeling of vulnerability. Were she feeling comfortable, she’d expose her midsection.

Beyoncé’s hip Her hips are angled away from her husband, indicating disassociation. In other [older] photos, you see Beyoncé leaning into her husband.

Blue Ivy Her hands are clasped in a prayer-like way. Happiness would be indicated by raised arms and an extended body. Instead, she’s making herself small. Maybe she’s praying her parents get back together.

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SA’S HIGHEST PAID ACTORS

According to Drum magazine, some of South Africa’s highest paid actors earn over 100K a month. The magazine quoted three independent sources who claimed that Etv’s Scandal and Rhythm City are home to some of the country’s highest paid actors.

Former Generations actor Sello Maake ka Ncube (Scandal); Jamie Bartlett and Moshidi Motshegwa (Rhythm City) each reportedly get paid R120 000 per month.

These revelations are in light of the recent strike by SABC long running soapie Generations actors.

The squabble arose from grievances from the actors citing

they were employed by the SABC and MMSV as freelancers, resulting in them not receiving any syndication fees and bonuses.

This was described by the actors as “fees that make the difference between ensuring an actors’ revenue stream for life, or condemning them to an existence where, despite being associated with an extremely profitable and successful project, once they leave the show, it’s ‘lights out.”

The Generations Actors Guild has met with the Minister of Arts and Culture and the SABC to try to resolve the issues.

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In a deposition related to a civil lawsuit, rapper Kanye West claimed that his father used to be a paparazzo.

“My father was a paparazzo himself. My father was a medical illustrator, a Black Panther, a Christian marriage counsellor,” he said.

Paparazzo Daniel Ramos was involved in an altercation with the rapper last year, which led to him accusing West of assault and later pressing charges. West pled no contest to a misdemeanour battery charge and was sentenced to two years’ probation, 24 anger management sessions and 250 hours of community service.

West is known for lashing out at paparazzi taking photos of him and has previously commented on his preference of Paris due to its stricter laws about taking peoples’ pictures. However, he doesn’t hate all paparazzi, admitting, “The paparazzi watch my car and makes sure that cops don’t give me tickets. There are some nice guys out here trying to just feed their family.”

Entertainment news

KANYE’S FATHER USED TO BE A PAPARAZZO

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Scarlett Johansson:

Olivia Wilde:Ashlee Simpson: Jessica Simpson:

Avril Lavigne:Entertainment news

With all the “conscious uncoupling” going on in Tinseltown one shouldn’t really be surprised anymore when there are news of yet another divorce. The latest famous couple to join “Splitsville” though, were quite a surprise. Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey’s pending divorce has been in the spotlight for a number of weeks.

Rumours have gone back and forth, some claiming it’s because of Nicki’s cheating (which he vehemently denied), while others claimed Nick was leaving Mimi because the atmosphere around her is so “toxic” and full of so much “chaos” that he fears for their two children and wants to leave.

TMZ also reported that they were told that the kids have already shown signs of “emotional upset” at having to live with Mariah. Although the true reasons are unclear, what definitely is clear is that their names will be added to the list of Young Hollywood Divorces, which seems to be growing.

The Avengers star divorced actor Ryan Reynolds after 2 years of marriage, when she was 26.

The pop sensation divorced Sum 41 singer Deryck Whibley after 3 years of marriage, at age 26.

The actress divorced her Italian filmmaker husband Tao Ruspoh after 8 years of marriage, at age 27.

The younger Simpson sister divorced Fall Out Boy Pete Wentz at age 26 after 2 years of marriage.

Divorced Nick Lachey at the age of 25 after 3 years of marriage.

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TINSELTOWN : NICK & MARIAH JOIN THE C

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+DEATH OF TRADITIONAL FASHION SHOWS?A new trend that’s emerging, is the chafing at traditional restrictions of fashion shows. Designer Gareth Pugh says, “I’m thinking about how I can do things differently. Because I am getting a little frustrated with showing my stuff in a fashion show.” The designer has in the past, showcased his work as video installation in New York fashion week for spring 2010.

It seems the formats of fully-fledged catwalk shows are losing their appeal.

Creative directors of Kenzo, have decided on a new direction for their spring collection this year. This season, the show will be conducted via a one-act play, directed by Spike Jonze, co-written by Jonah Hill and featuring a mix of models and actors.

In a world that is vastly digitally proficient, popularity of sites that stream live fashion shows are gaining popularity. Many people are now questioning the need for traditional showcases. It remains to be seen whether this will become a full-on revolution.

Source: www.independent.com

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images credit: jimnaughten.com/By : Jim Naughten

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Legendz

BILL COSBY: A LEGACY WORTHY TO BE CELEBRATEDActor, comedian, author, producer, musician and activist Bill Cosby is a celebrated world-renowned entertainer, with a considerable impact on arts and entertainment. Born July 12, 1937, Cosby is a veteran stand-up performer. He produced and starred in one of the 1980’s most culturally defining TV shows, The Cosby Show, which aired from 1984 to 1992. For five consecutive years, the show was number one in America, defying racial stereotypes.

Although he had a love for athletics for most of his younger years, Cosby always knew he had a gift for making others laugh. When he began bar tending at the Cellar, a club in Philadelphia to earn money, he became fully aware of his ability to make people laugh. In the summer of 1963, he gained exposure on NBC’s ‘The Tonight Show.’ His material captured hearts- using humorous recollections of his childhood. As his success grew had to defend his choice of material regularly; as he argued, “A white person listens to my act and he laughs and he thinks, ‘Yeah, that’s the way I see it too.’ Okay. He’s white. I’m Negro. And when we both see things the same way. That must mean that we are alike. Right? So I figure this way I’m doing as much for good race relationships as the next guy.”

His acting ventures have seen him starring in ‘I Spy’, an adventure series in 1965, earning him three consecutive Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

His later work was often lauded for changing perspectives about the African-American community. The Cosby Show, which went on to become the highest ranking sitcom of all time, was a response to the increasingly violent and vulgar fare the networks usually offered. Cosby is an advocate for humour that is family-oriented.

A new biography detailing his road to success and personal tragedy has been written, with the comic’s cooperation. Written by Mark Whitaker, a senior executive at CNN and former editor of Newsweek, the book traces the life of Cosby, often considered a cultural icon. Although Cosby was riding the crest of the wave with the success

of The Cosby Show, at the time, his personal life was beset with problems.

Married to Camille since 1964, the couple had five children. Daughter, Erinn, quit college when she became addicted to cocaine. Bill and Camille cut her off. The book further reveals that in an encounter with Mike Tyson, the boxing champion tried to rape her. In 1997, a devastating personal tragedy rocked Cosby’s world. His 27-year-old son Ennis was shot dead on the side of a Los Angeles highway. Two days after the murder, Autumn Jackson was arrested after trying to extort millions out of Cosby- in exchange for her keeping quiet about paternity. Cosby had an affair with her mother, Shawn Berkes in the early 1970s.

The book is due for release on September 16th.

“Women don’t want to hear what you think. Women want to hear what they think – in a deeper voice.”- Bill Cosby

Cosby’s performance was reviewed by the LA Times- Bobby Crawford writing,”The Cosby Show is credited with single-handedly rescuing the sitcom form. And as for funny, Cosby’s reality-based clowning set new standards. No character rendered a simple honest reaction funnier than Cliff Huxtable.”

Crawford continued to credit Cosby as “…personally responsible for the employment, encouragement and artistic support of more black writers than anyone in the history of television.”

Renee Graham wrote in 2005, “Cosby had never wavered in his messages about African- American potential, or what happens when its possibilities are undermined. With ‘The Cosby Show,’ he delivered the same vision, not with barbed rhetoric but gentle comedy, a spoonful of sugar that helped his still-potent socio-cultural medicine go down in the most delightful way.”

Bill Cosby’s work and teachings continue to impact urban society, and he continues gracing the stage with his comedic talents. A true legend, his contribution to the arts and advancement of education are worthy to be celebrated.

By: Phumzile Twala

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HIP HOP MEETS KWAITO.

TRENDSPOTTING:COMMERCIAL SA HIP HOP PAYS HOMAGE TO KWAITO CLASSICS OF YESTER-YEAR

Motswako rapper Cassper Nyovest has been in the news a lot recently. If it isn’t news about his romance with actress/TV personality Boity, then it’s news about his beef with fellow rapper AKA.

Without a doubt, like him or not, his music has set trends.

His debut album release, Tsholofelo, recently released amidst fanfare and on the backdrop of his squabble with AKA, featured a number of popular offerings. In April 2013, the album’s lead single “Gusheshe” was released, featuring Dirty Paraffin’s Okmalumkoolkat. The track, which had a lot of buzz was a preclude to the wave of kwaito-laced commercial songs by other hip hop artists. Blaklez’s “Don’t be Scared”, which featured a Mdu Masilela sample, and KO’s street anthem “Caracara” confirmed the shift. Cassper’s onslaught continued following his release of hit track “Doc Shebeleza”- an ode to the 90s kwaito legend. The video release featured cameos from Doc Shebeleza himself, iFani, Slikour, L-Tido, HHP, Smashis, Riky Rick, Maggz, and more.

The kwaito influence in commercial hip hop releases can’t be ignored. Much like back in the day when kwaito heavyweights Bouga Luv and Magesh dropped verses on kwaito tracks which could compete with any 16 bar verse by a rapper, it seems like the symbiotic relationship between the genres has found new life.

Nyovest’s genre-defying “Doc Shebeleza” has been described by Hip hop website AfricanHHB.com as, “...A high energy track with a trap beat very similar to any of Lex Luger’s last 20 offerings, including a hilarious 4 bar sequence where he acknowledges his desire to get with Minnie Dlamini...”

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Extending beyond the beats, the influence can be heard in some of the lyricism as well, as demonstrated by KO’s lyrics for CaraCara. The chorus is slightly laced with lyrics popularized by kwaito godfathers Trompies’ “Bengimngaka.” KO’s cleverly executed delivery on the track is fittingly appropriate- with his lazy, cool voice flitting throughout the song, reminiscent of a 1990’s style kwaito which featured sparse yet punchy lyrics.

The highly anticipated sophomore album by AKA featured the hit singles “Jealousy,” “Kontrol” and the kwaito-sounding “Congratulate.” The latter, which was the third single from the commercially successful “Levels” album, was produced by Tazzy, a member of funk band Muzart. The track has distinct kwaito elements to it and is complemented by some playful vernac wordplay by AKA.

Afrotainment Records affiliate, Duncan, has released one of 2014’s breakout hits. His single, “Tsiki Tsiki” pays homage to kwaito pioneer Mdu Masilela’s hit record of the same name released in the 90s. The revival of the song has been supported by Masilela himself, who makes a cameo appearance in the accompanying remix music video. Produced by Ngane of Spethu records, who introduced South Africa to Zakwe, the song has been received warmly, topping local music charts nationwide.

Another artist who isn’t new to chart-topping hits, is respected lyricist Proverb.

After ten years in the industry the entertainment guru is currently working on his fifth studio album. He is a supporter of the current trend, commenting: “I think it’s phenomenal. I really think it’s beautiful to see, if we’re influenced by our own, and we’re able to tap from our own resources and produce music that has even more of a South African influence. I think that’s really great.”

This trend hasn’t been appreciated by all hip hop lovers. Some may view this move as “selling-out.”

Proverb disagrees, stating: “Well, look, we’ve always tapped from various resources. We’ve always kind of been influenced by any-and-everything. When hip hop was influenced by jazz, it wasn’t deemed ‘selling out.’ When hip hop was influenced by more of an “African sound,” it wasn’t deemed ‘selling-out.’ How come now when it’s influenced by something proudly South African, it’s now considered ‘selling-out?’ So, in my opinion, no, I actually think that this is the height of creativity. We need to be able to reference their styles and bring it into what we do.”

Using this style as part of his own music isn’t something he would shy away from either. Asked whether he would go this route, he says, “of course! And who says I haven’t? I’ve got a fifth album coming out soon, so, look out for some surprises.” Maybe fans could look forward to a kwaito-esque track or two from him on his upcoming project?

Laughing, he adds, “I did some production on it, but not as much as before. I definitely cast the net of production a lot wider this time, but it’s equally, if not more, exciting.”

Unreleased Records founder and producer Draztik believes Ma-E’s rendition of “Akekho ugogo” is a step in the right direction. “The song is a really nice take on the style of music- the way it’s going.”

The former Cashless Society member, who was born in Botswana and raised in California, USA loves the current trend.

“I love it. I’ve been talking about this even in various interviews I’ve done and on twitter, saying that we needed something that incorporated something that’s more uniquely ‘our sound’ and I think that referencing something that people identify with, especially in terms of our history is a perfect meshing of music.”

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He has previously with the likes of Young Nations- producing the hit single “Zwakala.” His latest work sees him working with emcee N’veigh, on a track featuring a ‘Bubblegum’ sample, which they’re hoping to release soon.

“I did experiment with the kwaito sound a few years ago, but in fact I was actually gravitating a lot more towards ‘bubblegum.’ I’ve been playing around with South African ‘bubblegum’ since 2008. All the old-skool stuff, that eighties, real struggle kind of music, you know?” he explains.

“That’s going to be my take and style of this new breakthrough sound of South African hip hop,” he continues.

He concludes, “I really enjoy what’s happening right now in the industry. I think there’s still going to be a lot of challenges in making sure that people are not just doing it, just to do it, but they need to do it and sound good,” he says.

His justification of the trend is based on the two genres reliance on one another.

“First of all, I think that we need to understand that kwaito always had that influence of hip hop from the beginning. So they were taking that music and doing it in a way that people could relate to. Hip hop is a way of identifying yourself with your surroundings and your experiences, or what you’re going through. So if that’s the case, then kwaito is a definite reflection of what was going on in a progressive South Africa, in terms of post-94 and just a little bit before. So one can argue that it has similarities with hip hop from the beginning. So for them to reference kwaito is just the right avenue, it’s just an organic thing. Now, with American hip hop it’s always sampled its past. And its past has always been R&B; that was a reflection of what was going through the history of America. So what’s the difference?”

One can only hope for upcoming releases to elevate standards of creativity. Who knows? Maybe this trend will inspire different renditions of kwaito in turn.

By: Phumzile Twala

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TREY SONGZ TO UNEARTH NEW TALENT

Apart from flashing his rock hard abs on stage and providing silky smooth vocals on a number of hit songs, crooner Trey Songz is adding more to his plate.

The R&B star is putting his experience in the music industry to good use… He recently launched ‘Tucker Songz Publishing’ where he will work with not only aspiring artists, but songwriters and producers.

Partnering with Artists Publishing Group, Songz’ new deal will see him discover and nurture new talent.

“as I grew as an artist, I had the opportunity to work with several well known producers and writers,” he said in a statement.

“I recognize that not everyone has access to that, but that they still have raw talent that can be harnessed into greatness. That’s exactly what I intend to do with the new publishing company. I’ve seen Mike Caren turn small names, into household names time and time again. We’ve made 6 albums together. We share a respect for each other’s passion for music. I’m looking forward to learning and growing together in this business.

STEVE HOFMEYR TO INCLUDE ‘DIE STEM’ IN UPCOMING ALBUM

Due for release in September, singer Steve Hofmeyr’s new album is set to include a section of ‘Die Stem.’

According to Beeld, asked whether he was doing it to annoy his critics or for his fans to sing along at home, he said, “both.”

Forming part of his “Toeka” series, themed around nostalgia, the third installment will feature Hofmeyr singing, only with a guitar as accompaniment. He will also add the audience- “all 40 000 of them” who sang it with him at the Innibos festival in Mbombela earlier this year. The controversial performance resulted in backlash for the star, including criticism from Beeld editor Adriaan Basson, who criticized Hofmeyr’s reasoning.

Hofmeyr at the time claimed, “I will sing it more and ask that the ban on our sacred traditional song be lifted and may all be free to sing what, where they want, as long as it is not hate speech or preaches violence.”

Federation of Afrikaans Cultural Associations (FAK) managing director Danie Langner commented, “Cultural songs should have a proper place at cultural festivals…nations are built through respect and recognition of both national and cultural symbols.”

GARY CLARK JR.” LIVE ALBUM IN THE WORKS

Gary Clark Jr, the Grammy-winning guitarist and actor based in Austin, Texas, USA, is due to release an album on 23 September.

Clark became the first artist to have songs from the same album (Blak and Blu) nominated in both the R&B and Rock categories at the Grammys. Performing alongside Keith Urban, he went on to win the R&B accolade.

His year has been spectacular; with his release of a hip hop remix tape of Blak and Blu, featuring Talib Kweli and big K.R.I.T. as well as getting the opportunity to join The Eagles’ Joe Walsh and the Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl for a rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” during the Beatles’ 50th anniversary tribute show.

His first Live concert album, ‘Gary Clark jr. Live’ will feature some cover songs but will mostly feature Clark’s own compositions.

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CHRIS BROWN’S “X” TRACKLIST UNVEILED

Chris Brown’s upcoming album, titled “X” has become highly anticipated, following the release of acclaimed singles “Loyal,” “Fine China” and “New Flame.” The LP will have 21 tracks and features collaborations with a number of stars.

The September 16th album release will feature the talents of Brown, alongside Kendrick Lamar (Autumn Leaves), Trey Songz (songs On12 Play), R. Kelly (Drown in it), Nicki Minaj (Love More.)

Brown recently unveiled the full tracklist:

1. X 2. Add Me In 3. Loyal (ft. Lil Wayne & Tyga) 4. New Flame (ft. Usher & Rick Ross) 5. Songs On 12 Play (ft. Trey Songz) 6. 101 (Interlude) 7. Drown In It (ft R. Kelly) 8. Came To Do (ft. Akon) 9. Stereotype 10. Time For Love 11. Lady In a Glass Dress (Interlude) 12. Autumn Leaves (ft. Kendrick Lamar) 13. Do Better 14. See You Around 15. Don’t Be Gone Too Long 16. Body Shots 17. Want You To Want Me 18. Lost In Ya Love 19. Love More (ft. Nicki Minaj) 20. Don’t Think They Know (ft. Aaliyah) 21. Fine China

NICKI MINAJ, J.LO, USHER AND MORE TO PERFORM AT “FASHION ROCKS”

Artists confirmed to perform at “Fashion Rocks,” presented during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York, include the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Usher, Rita Ora, Jennifer Hudson and Pitbull.

Another headlining act will be Nicki Minaj, who’ll perform, following her much-talked about live performance of “Anaconda” at the MTV VMAs.

The Young Money rapper will be appearing in the television special celebrating the powerful relationship between fashion and music, hosted by Ryan Seacrest, set to air live from Brooklyn’s Barclay’s Center on September 9th.

Soundbooth news

ANDRE 3000 TEASES NEW ALBUM

Andre “3000” Benjamin recently gave a full-length interview to the New York Times in what seems like nearly a decade. One half of iconic hip hop duo “Outkast,” Benjamin has been quite busy- he stars in the lead role in the Jimi Hendrix biopic due for release at the end of September.

He hinted at a possible solo album release soon as well.

“I know this may sound morbid, but…if I were to die today, I have all these half-songs on my hard drive, and I don’t want that.” Besides his film work, he’s been writing some of the most memorable verses during the year. He told the publication that he uses his son as a gauge for some of his verses.

“My son, he’s 16. Him and his buddies, they’ll be in the car, and I’ll say,”Hey, what do you think about this verse? That’s my gauge at this point. Part of art is knowing when not to put paint on.”

Following his reunion with Big Boi at Coachella earlier this year, he says, “I think people could see it at…the very first show. It was foreign. My head wasn’t there.”

It was a call from Prince that swayed the ‘Hey Ya’ hitmaker to get back on stage. Prince told him, “When you come back, people want to be wowed. And what’s the best way to wow people? Just give them the hits.”

Here’s more from the interview:

On “Jimi: All Is by My Side: Hendrix kind of saved me. I was in a not-so-great space, just in a dark place every day. I needed something to focus on to get me out of my depression and rut. Sometimes, when you’re alone, you can let yourself go. I knew if I got on a train with a lot of different people, then I couldn’t let them down.

On Being A 40-Year-Old-Rapper: I remember, at like 25, saying ‘I don’t want to be a 40-year-old-rapper.’ I’m 39 now, and I’m still standing by that. I’m such a fan that I don’t want to infiltrate with old blood.

On Being A Fan Of Lil Wayne, Drake and Future: I don’t sit around and write raps, I just don’t. Now the only time I’m really inspired to write raps is if an artist that I enjoy invites me to their party. So if Future calls me and says, ‘Hey man, I want you to do this,’ I don’t want to let Future down. I don’t want to let Lil Wayne or Drake down, because I love them.

On Touring All Summer With Big Boi: Honestly, I never planned to go onstage again in that way. If I feel like I’m getting to a place where it’s mimicking or a caricature, I just want to move on. But I felt like: Let me do it now ’cause these kids [in the audience], it feels good to know that they’re happy. I really don’t actually get anything from performing.

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NO GOOD DEEDStarring Idris Elba, Taraji P. Henson, Kate del Castillo, Mark Smith, Henry Simmons, Wilbur Fitzgerald and Frank Brennan, the film is due for a September 12th release.

Henson portrays a former District Attorney turned stay-at-home mom who is terrorized and kidnapped along with her two small children. This follows her decision to invite a handsome but mysterious stranger (Elba) into their home to wait for help after his car runs off the road.

Terri (Henson) offers her phone to help Colin (Elba), a charming but dangerous escaped convict, but soon discovers that no good deed goes unpunished.

The crime thriller is directed by Sam Miller.

THE BOXTROLLS“The Boxtrolls” is an upcoming 3D stop motion adventure-comedy film based on the novel “Here Be Monsters!” by Alan Snow.

Starring the voice talents of Ben Kingsley, Jared Harris, Nick Frost, Richard Ayoade, Tracy Morgan, Elle Fanning, Steve Blum and more, the film promises an adventure filled journey. The film follows a young orphaned boy (Eggs) who is raised by underground cave-dwelling trash collectors called the Boxtrolls. He tries to save his friends from an evil exterminator named Archibald Snatcher (voiced by Kingsley.)

The film is due for release September 26th.

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Pixels- movies

Written and directed by John Ridley, “All By my Side” is a drama film based on a few years in the life of rock artist “Jimi Hendrix.” The film, set in London in 1966 and 1967, will include the songs that Hendrix performed during those years, shortly before the release of his debit album, “Are You Experienced.”

Starring Andre 3000 in the lead role, the film also stars Hayley Atwell (as Kathy Etchingham), Burn Gorman, Imogen Poots and Ruth Negga. The film has not been without controversy. The Hendrix estate was not consulted, so most of his songs could not be used.

The Guardian’s Henry Barnes reviewed it as a film that “delivers a jimi Hendrix experience somehow the richer for sidelining the man and subverting his music”

Director, Ridley told Rolling Stone of the preparation

undertaken by Andre 3000 for the role: “André came out to L.A. in January of 2012 and worked with me through April on all aspects of Jimi, from watching video of him to working with a vocal coach to getting as slim and slender as Jimi was at that time period.”

“He didn’t just work on playing the guitar, but playing the guitar left-handed. . . . He gave that performance because he wanted it. It was never going to be a Vegas lounge act. It was always going to be about getting to an emotional honesty with this character, and I cannot say enough about what André did.”

The film is set for a September 26, 2014 release.

JIMI: ALL IS BY MY SIDE

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pIXEL NEWS

2014 EMMY AWARDS: BIG NIGHT FOR BREAKING BAD AND MODERN FAMILYThe 2014 Emmy Awards took place August 25th in a glittering ceremony held at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles , California. Hosted by comedian Seth Meyers, the night belonged to outgoing incumbent ‘Breaking Bad,’ with the AMC series taking all but one of the key categories in which it was nominated.

Bryan Cranston took home his fourth Emmy for playing Walter White, while his co-stars Anna Gunn and Aaron Paul (Jessie Pinkman) were victorious in their ‘Outstanding Supporting Actor and Actress’ categories.

Although ‘The Good Wife’ was snubbed in the Best Drama category, many critics considered its past season its best yet. Julianna Marguiles scored a win for the drama as ‘Outstanding Actress in a Drama.’

The comedy categories were jam-packed with stiff competition between the likes of Modern Family, The Big Bang Theory, Orange is the new Black and Veep. Jim Parsons excelled again in his portrayal of Dr Sheldon Cooper in the big Bang Theory- earning him the nod for ‘Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy.’

‘Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy’ went to Ty Burell of Modern Family, while the show won top honours as ‘Outstanding Comedy.’

This was the show’s fifth consecutive win in this category.

Not to be outdone by more mature shows, newcomers Orange is the New Black and Fargo held their own. Breakout star Uzo Aduba won the ‘Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy’ Award for Netflix series Orange is the New Black, while Fargo, which stars Billy Bob Thornton was honoured for ‘Outstanding TV Miniseries.’

EMMY AWARDS 2014

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INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT EMMY AWARD-WINNING

COMEDY SHOW ‘MODERN FAMILY’

1. Nolan Gould, AKA Luke Dunphy is actually a boy genius! Although his character on the show is not the smartest the 15-year-old has an IQ of 150 and graduated from high school at the mere age of 13 years old, making him a member of Mensa (the largest high IQ society in the world) since the age of four. 2. Sofia Vergara is one of six children, her younger brother, Julio, has been arrested 30 times for drug related crimes. 3. According to E! News Phil Dunphy’s character was originally meant for Matt Le Blanc, AKA Joey from Friends, but when he declined Ty Burrell took the

part. Ed O’Neill, who plays the part of Jay Pritchett, was also the producers’ second choice. They originally wanted Craig T Nelson for the part of Gloria’s older husband. 4. In Modern Family, Cam and Mitchell adopt a Vietnamese baby who they name Lily, but in reality it is actually against Vietnamese law for same sex relationships to adopt from Vietnam. 5. Eric Stonestreet, AKA Cameron, had a childhood dream of becoming a clown. His clown character named Fizbo is actually his childhood creation. 6. Britney Spears was offered a role in season 3 of the hit comedy series but she turned it down. 7. Modern Family was originally going to be called My American Family

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DOCUMENTARY USES PHOTOGRAPHY TO EXAMINE AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY

“Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers at the Emergence of a people” is a two-hour documentary that has been in the making for 10 years.

The concept is an adaptation of a book by author and Professor Deborah Willis originally published in 2000 which told the story of the complicated relationship between photography and the African American experience over the past two centuries.

The heart of the film’s challenge lay in considering the difference between black photographers who use the camera to define themselves, their people and their culture and some white photographers who historically, have demeaned African Americans through racist imagery.

The film, which is set for a big screen release soon, examines the power of imagery thoroughly and uses photography to enact social change and understanding.

Photographer/filmmaker Thomas Allen Harris, who was approached by Willis to collaborate on the project worked with a research team to find images from all over the US, ultimately collecting over 20 000 images.

What the filmmakers hope the audience will take away from the film is the importance of history, “of knowing who we are and where we’re from,” says Harris. “To experience a kind of truth and reconciliation through the act of filling in and experiencing the joy and the pain as seen in this artist’s vision of the American family album. I want people to shoot with the camera instead of the gun!”

The dramatic arch is developed as a visual narrative that flows through the past 160 years to reveal black photography as an instrument for social change, an African American point-of-view on American history, and a particularly aesthetic vision.

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PLASTIC JESUSELEVATING STREET ART

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Creative chronicles

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“Hollywood’s Best Kept Secret” read the placard.LA based street artist “Plastic Jesus” made a powerful statement earlier this year when he installed a shocking statue close to the Oscars red carpet. His installation featured an Oscar award shooting heroin. A six-foot tall piece constructed from a mannequin which made headlines all over the world. The installation made its appearance timeously –a deliberate effort on the part of the artist- as Hollywood was reeling in shock from the death of celebrated actor Phillip Seymour Hoffman due to a drug overdose.

The artist, who has lost family members due to complications related to heroin, used this work as a way to open up dialogue about drug addiction, later telling Complex: “The piece is intended to be a wake-up call focusing on the issue of hard drug use in Hollywood.”

The artist’s satirical brand of subversive art has caught peoples’ attention, drawing both criticism and praise.

The artist specializes in bold stencil and installation work, inspired by world news events, society, the urban environment, culture and politics.

“My pieces connect and engage on a very superficial level of being a nice image that can be amusing. But by thinking about the deeper meaning, the piece should hopefully get people to look at the society around them to make some changes.”

His work is more about shining a small light into some of those dark corners of society than standing back and watching reactions and opinions. Some of the artist’s works include a graffiti piece of a clutching a teddy bear in one hand and a gun in the other (War Child.)

Another piece features the face of rapper/producer Kanye West plastered on a Christ-like figure of a body on a crucifix with the words “The New Messiah?” scrawled alongside.

Like urban art phenomenon Banksy, who makes art for people, not galleries, Plastic Jesus is gaining a strong following. His official site, www.plasticjesus.net boasts

images of his work – one of the latest being a painting of late actor Robin Williams.

It’s been previously pointed out that street artists often suffer from a unique conflict- with success being a mark of failure. What makes street artists like Plastic Jesus popular though is that even though their work sometimes amounts to defacement, their social commentary remains relevant. The trend of their popular works being sold and exhibited at galleries speaks volumes about their influence on popular culture.

Plastic Jesus chats to us about social commentary and influence

on urban culture:

BM: I read that you specialize in bold stencil and installation work. Do you have plans to expand into video installations or other forms of multimedia work?

PJ: I have a hard time with Video. I’ve been a photojournalist for over 20 years working with still images and I have the mind set of a stills photographer. I’ve found the transition to video very difficult. In my mind I like to freeze a moment, to enable the audience to consider and review what is in front of them. Multimedia or video doesn’t have the same appeal as ‘freezing’ a moment.

BM: In light of your views regarding the human rights of children, what are your views on the social media campaigns that took place following the kidnapping of the Nigerian school girls by Boko Haram earlier this year?

PJ: I think we will see more social media campaigns with greater importance in time to come. Any force, be it a government, militia or rebel group, realise the importance of public opinion. In previous generations nations would drop leaflets over enemy territory to try to influence the people, or a State would broadcast propaganda over radio and TV. Social media is just the modern equivalent.

The advantage of social media is that everyone has access to it. You don’t need a state broadcaster to connect with millions of people. I would like to think that social media campaigns have an effect on atrocities around the world. However there seems to be so much horror going on I feel we are become immune to it.

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Creative chronicles

Images by : Plastic Jesus

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BM: Do you classify yourself as a “street artist” personally?

PJ: That sounds like an easy question, but it’s not easy to answer. I walk around the streets and see the amazing technical and creative work by so many artists. My work is different in that I see the ‘art’ is actually in the message itself. I guess other people call me a street artist more often than I do myself.

BM: Can you tell us about your creative process? How long does it take for you to create your pieces from the moment of inspiration to completion? (That’s if you can put a time-frame to it really)

PJ: My creative process starts with an issue I feel strongly about or want to convey. I then consciously bounce some initial ideas around inside my head. I usually reject all my early ideas. I then forget about it and leave my subconscious to do the work. I’m a great believer in the incredible power of the subconscious mind.

An idea will usually come into my head when I’m not thinking about it- in the shower, driving, walking my dog or listening to music. I then rush like crazy to the idea jotted down (I carry a notebook everywhere!) Before I create the piece I usually wait a day or two and when I come back to the idea if I still like it, I create it.

BM: Do you aim for all your pieces to express some form of social commentary?

PJ: Social Commentary is what motivates me.

If I can get even just one person to think about an issue- that’s a success for me. Some of my pieces are just for fun. However if you look deeply enough at anything for long enough I’m sure you can find a social issue.

I hope my pieces get viewed on a number of levels, firstly I want people to be impressed with the initial impression of the piece, how it’s made or the scale or simply the juxtapose of the location. Then I hope people consider the meaning and lastly I hope people consider their own views, opinions and attitude to the issue I have raised.

BM: With the wave of urban art gaining more popularity worldwide, and more street artists selling their work, do you consider it “selling-out”?

PJ: Great question. In a word: no. Everyone needs to earn a living. Having money attached to street art or any other form of art does not diminish the social value of the work. One of the most respected street artists - Shepherd Fairey makes in excess of $10million per year.

However he is still regarded as being hugely influential on the street art scene and still regarded as ‘Cool’ by the thousands of people buying his shirts, caps, posters, and pants from multi national, multi million dollar retail stores. It amazes and impresses me how you can be head of a multi million dollar corporation and a subversive at the same time.

BM: One of your works that caught my attention is the installation of the American Express card with cocaine on a pavement. Along with the Oscar award earlier this year, it sent across a powerful and simultaneously chilling message about drug abuse. What effect do you hope these works will have on society essentially?

PJ: Drugs are everywhere in society. If we don’t use drugs ourselves we know people that do. And people at all levels of society, students, factory workers, civil servants, police and politicians. But there is very little open conversation about drug use; it’s really the elephant in the room.

Current attitude and regulations to drugs clearly aren’t working. We need an open and public conversation with a possible change in attitude. I’d like to add this isn’t coming from someone who is a drug user and wants easy access to drugs.

I don’t use drugs, Weed just makes me fall asleep and I’ve tried cocaine four times and ended up with a near suicidal depression. I’m just saying lets talk about it. Pros and cons.

BM: Is there any issue or topic that you consider taboo?

PJ: I’ve not found it yet.

BM: Is the commercialization of your art something you aimed for initially?

PJ: No, not at all. I have mixed feelings about it. I don’t think it’s selling- out but if someone is connected enough to a piece of my art and they wish to buy it I’m OK with

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that. I’m not motivated by money; I guess I’m motivated by acceptance of my ideas and attitudes. Some of my pieces are quite complex and cost a lot to make. Selling art gives me the freedom to produce more and experiment.

BM: South Africa has an active street art culture, but a limited amount of it relates to social commentary. Do you think this type of art has a place in every country?

PJ: Certainly, I wish more people would produce street art with a social commentary. The freedom of speech is written into most countries constitution, but however the mainstream media often are death to one half of any conversation.

Street art is a way of getting the overlooked message out.

No- one would ever listen to my views on drugs, debt, guns, celebrity or religion. However they do notice my street art and its does start a debate. I’ve been to South Africa a number of times and from my experience there are a lot of underlying social issues that need to be addressed. Street art could be one way to start this.

BM: What words of advice would you like to share with upcoming artists?

PJ: Don’t worry you technique, worry about your message.

By: Phumzile Twala43

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ELISHA MPOFU OF BOASTON SOCIETY:

NURTURING CREATIVE TALENT

Elisha Mpofu is a young creative entrepreneur based in the mother city. As founder and Creative Director of Boaston Society, he is spreading his wings in major ways.

Recently announced as winner of the Young Creative Entrepreneur Award for fashion (2014), he is also at the helm of the flourishing Boaston Society, a creative space which stocks a number of local clothing brands and houses an art gallery for upcoming young artists among other exciting initiatives.

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Spot on

Based on 55 Long Street, 2nd floor, Cape Town, Boaston Society has positioned itself as a hub for nurturing creative talent, creating sustainable work opportunities for young people and for facilitating dialogue within an urban entrepreneurial environment with some of the country’s most visionary talents.

The name was inspired by Greg Selkoe, an entrepreneur who founded Karmaloop, the global streetwear online company based in Boston. He boasts about his business because he loves what he does, so after looking at his own activities and the projects that they wanted to execute, Elisha decided to call the business “Boast-on” as encouragement for people to go out there and be proud of their work.

With an explicit main aim of fostering youth projects, Boaston Society also has some more exciting projects lined up for the latter half of the year. Their project space also caters for curators in the disciplines of film, art, urban fashion, music and digital. Elisha has described Boaston Society as, “An outlet for young designers who have the ambitions of building global brands.”

They also always encourage collaborations within brands and work with the designers to develop their entrepreneurial skills.

We recently had a chat with the young dynamic, man:

BM: When I read about Boaston Society, I was pretty

inspired. Looking back, since you started, have you achieved what you set out to do?

Not yet! It’s a work in progress because we are in the beginning stages of the vision that we’ve actually set out to do from day one. We have kick-started the process, which means everybody’s taking note of what we are trying to do.

But as for what we’re trying to achieve, the goal is still very far, because we’re not only trying to create a sustainable business, but we’re trying to create a sustainable community and also trying to make sure that everyone involved in Boaston Society gets rewarded and that the community gets rewarded as well.

BM: How have the youth in Cape Town reacted to the youth initiatives Boaston Society offers?

Incredibly well! When we started Boaston Society, there was no specific support base. We were not in magazines. We were not making waves on social media or anything. It was one of those projects where I was like, ‘guys, I’m going start this store’; without necessarily having the space or the funding.

But by consistently involving everybody else, we opened,

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believing that people are going to see what we’re trying to do and jump on it. At the end of the day, our name is strategically created to involve everybody else. That’s why it’s called ‘the society.’ So over the year, the support has been incredible and I’m sure it’s just going to continue growing from now on.

BM: What impact do you hope to have had on the creative industry within the next 5 years?

The impact is going to be more of a collaborative contribution from my side. This platform is allowing me to reach out to as many people as possible. Other than what I do, I’m a TV producer by day. So I was trying to fuse the whole idea of youth culture, television and entertainment and making sure that we create positive work that can allow us to create a youth economy that is in our own hands, going forward.

So that young people cannot only try to look for jobs. We should try to create the jobs. If you look at it, every brand that we work with, that’s inside the store, which is now about 15 to 20, there’s one person behind it, so that means 20 jobs have been created. That links to our target of 150 jobs per year that we’re trying to create, using the store as a platform.

BM: Just touching on that, how close are you to achieving that goal?

This goal is very ambitious, and I actually thought of it 6 months ago. I can share that we’re slowly getting there. We’re almost there, because we’ve got over 30 brands that are locally based and locally made. There are people who own those brands and people who actually sew and make these brands come alive, which means that chain itself, is roughly 5 people per brand and times that by 30 it will give us all 150.

This is also considering that, as a store, we are now developing our new model of marketing, using the rep system. We’re going to be roping in people of high school or varsity age, where we’ll have them go out there and tell people about Boaston Society. It’s a chain reaction we’re creating.

BM: You’ve had some exciting projects across the different facets of youth culture. Are there any specific projects you’re still eyeing?

I can reveal that we’re working on a big project for October 24th, 25th and 26th. We’re hoping to have a three-day event that’s about celebrating urban culture in Cape Town.

We’re

working w i t h one major lifestyle brand and we’ll be bringing in some international people as well. Otherwise, we’ll be engaging the community through workshops directed at brands and

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upcoming designers.

BM: Any plans to open a store in Joburg any time soon?

Call me crazy, but honestly, I’m not seeing Joburg as our next

market for what we’re trying to do, because

we believe urban culture should

be spread with

communities who are more

marginalized.

If we did open another store, it would be in PE or Durban because

we’d also want the people there to get

exposure to things we like. I feel like there are already things like this happening in Joburg, and we would like to create a network with people who own those stores in Joburg instead.

BM: As a creative, what inspires you most about South African youth?

I don’t want to sound cheesy or anything (laughs), but really just seeing someone smiling because they’re doing what they love. It’s about having fun at the end of the day. Just seeing someone doing their best with their talent and skill inspires me.

BM: Tell us about what you’re looking forward to as winner of the Young Creative Entrepreneur Award for fashion? Congrats again!

Thank you so much! I’m really looking forward to taking local brands to an international platform.

Really creating more exposure for local brands and creating networks with international brands.

The trip to London itself, for me, is going to be an eye-opener. We’re going to create a network- a platform where brands will be exposed to an international market. I believe our products have the potential to take off in other markets, so that’s what we’ll be doing. Other than that, I just want to see London!

Contact Elisha and the Boaston Society crew here:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BoastonSociety

Twitter: https://twitter.com/boastonsociety

By: Phumzile Twala

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Thetre news 3

SHERRI SHEPHERD JOINS BROADWAY’S ‘CINDERELLA.’

The comedian and talk show host will join the cast, which includes Keke Palmer. She will be playing the role of Madame, the Evil Stepmother from 9 September 2014.

Her work in film includes ‘Precious’, ‘Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa’, ‘Guess Who’ and the upcoming comedy ‘Ride Along 2.’ Her theatre credits have also included ‘Love, Loss and What I Wore.’

‘Cinderella’ also stars South African opera singer Phumzile Sojola as ‘Lord Pinkleton.’

AUTO & GENERAL WINS BASA AWARD FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THEATRE

Insurance giant Auto & General was recently awarded with the Business and Arts Award for First Time Sponsor of and Arts Project- Daphne Kuhn’s acclaimed Theatre on the Square in Sandton, Johannesburg.

“This recognition is richly deserved and testament to Auto & General’s commitment to invest in the growth of the entertainment industry- and to building business relationships. The theatre has provided the infrastructure, creative work opportunities and exposure for scores of performing artists, designers and technicians. It has produced and presented over 1000 dynamic new productions including workshops, corporate events and regular weekly lunch hour concerts in just two decades,” said producer/owner/artistic director Daphne Kuhn.

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Thetre

The play makes its return to Artscape before a tour of the Netherlands and the United Kingdom a part of the Afrovibes Festival.

Starring Kertrice Maitisa, Jennifer Steyn and Mbulelo Grootboom, the play is directed by Lara Bye.

‘Rainbow Scars’ employs the metaphor of an interracial family with a white mother and her adopted black daughter- and the estranged cousin of the daughter- to explore issues of identity, exclusion and privilege in the post-apartheid ‘rainbow nation.’

Tickets cost R100 and the show will be on 29 September at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town.

RAINBOW SCARS

ARTS ALIVE THEATRE SHOWSThe Johannesburg Arts Alive 2014 programme includes an exciting Theatre show line-up.

Taking place during the first week of September, various shows will be spread among the Market Theatre, Thusong Youth Centre and Joburg Theatre.

3 Sep Double Bill: Mating Birds and Dark Cell 7-8pmMarket Theatre

Double Bill: South venturing North and Skierlik 7:30-8:30pmMarket Theatre

5 Sep Twilight Theatre Night: princess in Red and White5pm- 00:00amThusong Youth Centre

Twilight Theatre Night Premiere: Via Alex7pm- 00:00amThusong Youth Centre

6 Sep Twilight Theatre Night: Three Perfect Couples5pm- 00:00amThusong Youth Centre

A play that explores the complexities of contemporary South African relationships, layered with dollops of humour, ‘Rainbow Stories’ is a show that reflects on the country’s 20 years of democracy legacy.

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Michael Meyersfeld’s “Dark City Dreams” was born out of his desire to show the smiling face of Alexandra, Johannesburg. A place which usually conjures up images of poverty, illness, crime and grime, Alex is also a place filled with excitement, joy, happiness and hope.

This exhibition is a collaboration between Meyersfeld and one of Alex’s most celebrated sons- poet and author Mongane Wally Serote.

He has written a poem for each of the 15 images on display. Award-winning Meyersfeld has had work exhibited since 1975. He continues to work in a dual career of advertising and fine art photography. He recently held his 13th exhibition entitled “Life Staged” and is currently working on his new project, “Urban Disquiet.”

“Dark City Dreams” is on exhibit at the Toto Gallery from 4 - 29 September 2014.

DARK CITY DREAMS

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Exhibitions

DUMILE FENI: HISTORY

Once described as the “Goya of the townships,” late artist Dumile Feni went into exile in the late 1960s and sadly died before he had the chance to return to a democratic South Africa.

Gallery MOMO presents: History- Works on paper and Sculpture by Dumile Feni.

The exhibition ends on 22 September 2014.

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MABONENG TOWNSHIP ARTS EXPERIENCE

AN EXHIBITION THAT TURNS HOMES INTO ART GALLERIESThe Maboneng Township Arts Experience is a public arts intervention that works with homeowners from different townships around South Africa to create their residencies into art galleries.

From 5th to 7th September, the Maboneng Township Arts Experience will be launched in Soweto, Orlando West, Moema Street, just off Vilakazi Street, forming part of the city’s Arts Alive Festival.

Curating the exhibition will be Mashumi Art Projects and Tickets are R50.

Alexandra Township:24 September12:00 to 17:0063-4th Avenue

Kayamandi Stellenbosch25-26 October 12:00 to 17:00Swaartbooi street

Gugulethu Cape Town29-30 November12:00 to 17:00NY147 and NY117

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KALASHNIKOVV GALLERY PRESENTS: TETRAFLIXA merger of local and international music, performance and visual art, Tetrafix promises a plethora of talent and an exciting night of entertainment.

The Session will also feature 4 international purveyors of multi-disciplinary creative practice.

The line-up is set to include:

Introduction to Cascade Interventions

Ravish Momid (USA)

Yuri Suzuki (JPN)

Skelemton (SA)

DJ Spoko (SA)

Kazim Kazim Kazim (UK)

DJ Storno

Noka Kikulu (SA)

Tickets will be available at the door from 8pm onwards at R60 per ticket (No under 18s allowed.)

Tetrafix is part of The Black Cube Sessions, presented by the Kalashnikovv Gallery.

Date: 12th September 2014

Venue: Bullion in Braamfontein (Liberty building on the corner of Biccard street and Wolmarans.)

Exhibitions

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Opportunities4

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VISUAL ARTS INTERNSHIP

The Limpopo Arts and Culture Association, VANSA and Africalia (Belgium) are inviting applications for an internship position for an individual with skills and expertise within the Visual Arts, for a 10 month period, starting 1st October 2014-30th June 2015.

Requirements:

Ability to read, write and speak English fluently and eloquently as well as the ability to speak an indigenous language spoken in Limpopo.

Closing date is 15 September 2014.

The role will include assisting with organizing two visual arts exhibitions and workshops in Limpopo, project management of arts events and assisting in the promotion of visual arts in Limpopo.

Applicants should also provide a detailed resume, a 300 word or one page A4 motivation letter and a copy of a certified ID.

The documents should be sent to Lethabo@lovelimpopoart.com or faxed to 086 609 3207 or hand delivered to 61

Devenish Street Polokwane.

For further information, please contact Lethabo Ramokgopa 015 291 3903 or 078 841 4592 during office hours

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MFUNDO MTHIYANE: EMERGING ARTIST USING TALENTS TO HIGHLIGHT SOCIAL ILLS

As a young emerging artist, hailing from the city of Durban, Mfundo Mthiyane is using his talents and creativity to share messages of hope and raise awareness about social ills.

Using his art to bring light to social ills, he is explicit about his aims: “I’m complaining about the situations that happen around us. I want people to look at the art and it must be an investment. People must look at my work and get a message out of it.”

Inspired by his uncle from a young age, Mthiyane explains this influence in his life, “My uncle used to paste papers on the door and provide crayons for me to draw, so I would also have something to work on when he was busy creating his artwork.”

Pursuing a career as a creative is bound to be challenging for anyone. He has faced his share of stumbling blocks along the way. He’s cited the biggest obstacle faced as “being broke, because my art was not getting sold. That led to extreme mood swings, stress, despair and creative blocks.”

“That is when I decided to fuse graphic/web design and fine art to survive, so I know where to fall when things don’t go well with one aspect of my work.”

Mfundo recently shared some time with us, telling us about his work:

BM: Your work was part of the “Emerging Eyes” exhibition earlier this year. Did your involvement achieve your desire to spread awareness?

I just wanted to capture good stories of township life... I don’t like sad stories. Life is full of them. I just want the viewer to have nice good happy memories about their childhood or life.

BM: I found the ‘milk and honey’ concept intriguing, especially as we’re commemorating 20 years of democracy as a country. As a young person in Mzansi, is the art industry what you hoped it would be growing up?

Not yet but it is getting there, one thing that I see and like these days is that young people are getting more and more involved in art which is good; but one thing is missing.

I also wish that people from my township or any other would also appreciate art and understand that it plays a big role in our daily lives...

Magazines like this are a big step. It’s just what we need as artists to make sure we reach people. Art creates a creative mind and a creative mind creates job opportunities.

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BM: Of the various media you fuse to create your art, do you have a preferred medium?

Acrylic paint.

BM: What inspires your work?

People, Animals, Plants (life) and music… There is no single artwork I’ve produced without listening to music.

BM: What themes do you enjoy exploring the most?

Happiness and people.

BM: Is there a specific platform you envision your work displayed on in the near future?

I’ve never thought about it but as long as it can reach people.

BM: In your opinion, what qualities does one need in order to succeed as an artist these days?

Curiosity, passion and make sure your work is supra before you.

BM: Who would you love to collaborate with?

My uncle Thokozani Mthiyane- he is also an artist, poet and a writer.

BM: What’s next for you?

The next thing is to become good at what I am doing right now which is visual art. I am also honing my skills in graphic, web design and web development.

As long as it involves art and my passion for it I will do it... who knows maybe one day I will wake up and design a flying car, I am still young and going where life sends me.

Visit www.slomarta.com for more information about Mfundo’s projects.

By: Phumzile Twala

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Forming part of this year’s Fak’ugesi Digital Africa Festival, Social Media Week will be taking place from 22 September to 26 September in Jozi.

Registration for this trailblazing tech savvy conference is now open.

Why should you attend?

The conference is an exciting opportunity to engage with proactive speakers, innovators and thought leaders. With an audience made up of entrepreneurs, influencers, founders and digitally connected consumers, SMW promises a thrilling experience for young people who are making meaningful change and leading productive lives.

Some exciting talks scheduled include:

Sep 22: Storyselling in a Digital Age- Hosted by DigiSense

Accelerating Broadband Access to poor communities in South Africa and the implications for the Digital Economy. - Hosted by Project Isizwe

Sep 23: Entrepreneurship in the Digital Age- Hosted by Awesomely Luvvie

Building the Next Generation of Digital Talent- Hosted by Zama Ndlovu, Youthlab

Sep 25: African Consumer Trends Roundup- Hosted by trendwatching.com

The conference provides the ideas, trends, insights and inspiration to help people and businesses understand how to achieve more in a hyper-connected world.

Many events during the week are free of charge; however there are pass options available for unlimited access for a day or the entire week.

The conference is set to feature over 50 speakers including: Khaya Dlanga, Milisuthando Bangela, Britni Danielle, Uno de Waal, Nandus Du Plessis, Jepchumba, Andile Mbete, Sizwe Mdladla, Anthea Paulos and many more.

For registration details and info about the schedule, visit www.socialmediaweek.org.

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AMAZE FESTIVAL TO POWER JOZI UPThe third edition of the AMAZE Playful Media Festival will be powering up the city of Johannesburg from 10-13 September 2014.

The three day festival will include talks, panel discussions, interactive installations, workshops, screenings, a market hack, the best selection of independent games and music.

AMAZE, which has become an annual event, is presented by the Digital Arts Department of the University of the Witwatersrand, Kalashnikovv Gallery, Goethe-Institut, Swedish institute, Connect ZA/British Council and pro Helvetia. The festival promises an exciting programme for attendees.

Creative minds will gather in celebration of playful media in Africa. The digital art scene is set to come alive as part of the Fak’ugesi Digital Africa Festival, an umbrella event hosted by Wits University and the JoziHub in Johannesburg which aims to promote the fusion of creative and technical development.

Tickets are available online for R350 (full festival) and R200 for students and educators.

JOBURG CITY FESTIVALREDISCOVER JOZIThe ABSA Joburg City Festival is a celebration of the regenerated CBD. The festival will be taking place across eleven inner-city districts from 2-5 October 2014.

Venues across Milpark, Newtown, Braamfontein, Western Edge (Ferreirastown), Absa Campus (Absa Gallery and The Money Museum), Fashion District, Maboneng, Fordsburg, Constitution Hill, Corporate Mining District (Marshalltown) and Ellis Park will be buzzing with action and festivities.

“The decline of Joburg in the 1980s and 1990s has been turned around and the Absa Joburg City Festival provides many clean and safe spaces that are family-friendly and fun,” says Gerald Garner, Festival spokesperson.

“The city’s heritage architecture, struggle history, specialist retailers, foodie destinations, galleries, museums and experiential activities provide a welcome reprieve from the suburban landscape and lifestyle.”

Wherever possible, the festival will be promoted as a cashless event. Absa’s new Payment Pebble device will be made available to vendors and venues. The user-friendly technological device plugs into compatible smartphones and tablets to enable secure processing of card payments.

In an exciting new move, a sliding scale applies, whereby the more people buy, the less they pay. This has never been done in Africa before.

To coincide with the opening of the Festival, the Absa Art Gallery will unveil a new collection and the Absa Money Museum will showcase artefacts pertaining to the city’s 128-year history.

Associate sponsors of the event include Kaya FM, Newtown Junction and DSTV.

Visit www.joburgcityfest.co.za for more info.

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INAUGURAL SOWETO ART WEEK KICKS OFF THIS SEPTEMBER

The first edition of Soweto ArtWeek (SAW) will take place on 24-28 September 2014 in Soweto, Gauteng. The yearly art fair will be taking place in September in celebration of Heritage month.

SAW aims to have approximately over 200 juried works from emerging to established artists, art groups, collectives and galleries exhibiting original 2D arts, photography, drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media and 3D works.

SAW serves and supports the diverse community of the arts, art organisations, galleries and cultural institutions.

5 exhibit areas including The Soweto Theatre, Maponya Mall, Mofolo Art Center, Maboneng Township Art Gallery Spaces and Funda Art Center will be displaying works by the likes of Zanele Muholi, Nontsikelelo Veleko, Bongi Bengu, Charles Sokhaya Nkosi and more.

Gallery booths will be at Maponya Mall and galleries are expected to present museum quality 2D and 3D art for sale.

Soweto ArtWeek was founded by Lunga Khumalo, director of Legacy Art Projects and Chief Curator of the world travelling exhibition “Inkunzi Emanxeba: The legacy continues…” SAW is hosted in association with Soweto Arts and Craft Fair.

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SEEING UGLY.

So you have that one bump on your nose that you wish you could shave down or that stubborn extra roll on your tummy that’s just screaming for a procedure. Or maybe it’s your dark cocoa skin tone which you wish were two or three shades lighter. Some people would just dismiss noticing these issues as nothing more than a case of vanity, but for other people these issues present themselves as something completely different.

So when do these hang-ups become a real problem?

At what stage is it no longer a case of vanity?

What some people regard as flaws in their appearance become perceived as major defects in the eyes of individuals suffering from body dysmorphic disorder. These perceived defects cause a significant amount of distress and may impair social functioning. What these individuals see when they look at themselves in the mirror is a different image to what others see.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a mental health condition related to body image in which an individual has an unhealthy preoccupation with a defect in his or her appearance.

Celebrity culture has fuelled the kind of lifestyle whereby beauty is defined according to Western ideals. Hollywood glam ideals of beauty have an influence on beauty standards across the world and many individuals are affected directly or indirectly by this influence.

The entertainment industry has its share of stars that lead seemingly enviable lives, yet have hang-ups with their appearance. Living in the constant glare of media and public scrutiny more often than not means that these stars often have to deal with their disorders in the public eye.

Stars that have bravely come out and admitted suffering from the disorder include Heroes actress Hayden Panattiere, singer Lily Allen and Kill Bill actress Uma Thurman.

The latter has previously stated that she developed BDD after the birth of her daughter in 2001. The actress’ ethereal, elongated features were morphed into a different image in her eyes.

Experts have proposed that Michael Jackson suffered from BDD because he had over 30 plastic surgeries and seldom showed his face without make-up. Behaviour displayed by individuals with BDD includes spending copious amounts

of time checking their defect in the mirror daily, excessive grooming, needing frequent reassurance about their defect and attempts to ‘camouflage’ their defects.

Although the disorder is diagnosed with approximately equal frequency in men and women, one study found that up to 12% of patients seen by dermatologists and up to 15% of patients seeking cosmetic surgery had a diagnosis of BDD.

Mshoza (real name Nomasonto Mnisi) found fame in the late 1990s as a kwaito artist in South Africa. These days her name is hogging the spotlight for reasons other than her music. An explosive reveal of cosmetic procedures she has undergone presented a new face (and complexion) to the world. She spoke candidly about skin bleaching procedures she had undergone on SABC television talk shows 3Talk and Motswako. The move sparked outrage, admiration and began debates countrywide.

The musician revealed to The Star, “In the past I had to use heavy make-up to hide the blotches on my face. I’ve always had skin problems and it somehow lowered my confidence. At least now I can do something about it.”

Before the procedure she also revealed, “I’m consulting three dermatologists. They have completed the first phase. I don’t really look pale at the moment. But yes, when everything is said and done I will look like a white person. From head to toe. I might also have to redo the rhinoplasty to fit my new skin. But this doesn’t mean I’ll start singing pop music or act differently.”

Only officially recognized as a member of the somatoform disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical manual (DSM-III) in 1987, the disorder was first described in 1886 by Italian psychiatrist Enrico Morselli- who initially coined the disorder “dysmorphophobia.”

Other big names that have had brushes with the disorder include Twilight heartthrob Robert Pattinson and Sarah Michelle Gellar. In a May 2012 interview on ABC’s “The View”, Pattinson’s “Bel Ami” co-star, actress Christina Ricci, claimed that the British actor frequently put down his own looks on set. “He’d be like ‘I feel awful look how ugly I am.’ and I’d say ‘Yeah, you’re really ugly, I wish I looked like that!’” Ricci said.

Typically beginning in early adolescence, BDD frequently goes undiagnosed, but it is a serious disorder. Causes range from: Predisposing factors, such as low self-esteem, abuse, parenting style, and neglect. Biological factors such as a chemical imbalance or medical conditions can also factor into the onset of BDD.

By: Phumzile Twala

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BEWARE OF COLOUR

“Beware of Colour” is the name of a recent urban experiment undertaken by activists in the name of art and social commentary.

The public art involved painting of inner city Johannesburg buildings with shocking pink paint. The initiative was aimed at reclaiming the city that has fallen to de-gentrification over the past 25 years.

In a visual open letter to Mayor Parks Tau, the activists splashed a whole lot of colour around the city centre- with patches of pink painted or spilled on buildings or pavements. The message seemed to be that the government should look around at various deserted or neglected structures around the CBD and rejuvenate the city.

With urban art growing in popularity worldwide, and street art becoming more appreciated, it seems the activists’ ploy was right on time.

Images of the experiment were documented at

www.bewareofcolour.tumblr.com.

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‘SPEAK THE MIND’ POETRY SHOW FEATURES ALL-STAR LINE-UP

The ninth edition of the Speak the Mind Poetry Sessions will be taking place at the Joburg Theatre, forming part of the Johannesburg Arts Alive Festival. Featuring a star-studded line-up, the show will feature a smorgasbord of South African poetic talents, including the acclaimed Lebo Mashile, Tumi Molekane, Gratitude Fisher and Mandi ‘Poefficient’ Vundla.

International stars taking part include Jamaican dub poet Mutabaruka, Efe Paul-Azino from Nigeria, Queen GodIs (Takeasha Henderson) who hails from Brooklyn, New York.

Dr Mongane Wally Serote will also be gracing the event, taking place on the 5th of September.

Music will be complementing the performances for the evening. Cape Town experimental 5-piece band, Soul Housing Project, founded by Bokani Dyer and Sakhile Moleshe will be sharing sounds from their upcoming debut album- an eclectic mix of jazz, hip hop, house and drum and bass influences.

Swaziland native, lyricist and vocalist Jazz P will be collaborating with Zim Jazz artist and multi-instrumentalist Josh Meck.

The show kicks off at 7pm.

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ARTS ALIVE PRESENTS: DANCE DAY SOUTH AFRICAThe third annual Dance Day South Africa will be forming part of the year’s Johannesburg Arts Alive Festival. On Saturday 6 September, Mary Fitzgerald Square will come alive with creative expression I the form of dance. The aim of the event is to bring people together and to celebrate the art form as a communication medium and fun tool for a healthy lifestyle.

Business Education and Arts Mentorship; City of Johannesburg and Southern African Association of Youth Clubs have collaborated to bring the event to dancers and lovers of dance.

Choreographers Quintus Jansen; Tumi Trent Tladi; Sello Modiga; Charlie van Rooyen and Nosiphiwo Samente will interact with attendees- teaching them a simple, fun routine in between performances.

Dance crews Prophelaz, Freeze Frame and Real Action Pantsula will mesmerize the audience with exciting performances. Opportunities will be available too. Those hoping to enrol for dance or arts studies will be able to visit the information centre with packs from the National School of the Arts, BEAM and other institutions. MC for the day will be VUZU presenter Shelton Forbes.

The entrance fee is R30 and the event will be from 12:00 to 17:00.

CALLING YOUNG INNOVATORS AND CREATIVE PRACTITIONERSCreative Futures, presented by British Council/ConnectZA will be bringing creative talent together in one city to create an experiential exchange of knowledge, practice and creativity.

The gathering, which will be taking place in various venues around Braamfontein from 10 to 12 September 2014, will see young innovators and practitioners converging to share knowledge about design, music, photography, performance and the digital field.

British Council Connect ZA Head of Arts Tom Porter says, “We’re excited to share the new creative energy of Johannesburg with this group of innovators.”

Lindiwe Matshikiza (theatre-maker); Jamal Nxedlana (fashion designer and visual artist); Jade de Waal (Food Jams creator); DJ Spoko; Dillion Phiri (Creative Nestlings co-founder); Job King Ori Maina (researcher and programmer); Jody Paulsen (visual artist); Malose

Malahlela (Keketla! Library co-founder; Eseoghene Odiete (fashion entrepreneur); Amirah Tajdin (artist & filmmaker), Sionne Neely (Accra [dot] Alt co-founder); Davina Johi (photographer); Nqobizitha Mlilo (animator), Libby Curley (actress and partnership marketing manager); Kazim Kazim Kazim (Somethinksounds music label co-founder) and Gareth Owen Lloyd (artist) have been announced as the creative taking part.

Public events include:

A visual tour of Jozi led by Future Sounds of Mzansi filmmaker Lebogang Rasethaba for professional photographers and filmmakers.

A series of free public talks including the Business of Fashion, Music Promotion and Business in the Digital Age.

Tetrafix, a merger of local and international music, performance and visual art.

Visit www.creativefuturesza.com for more information or to reserve a place at one of the free public events.

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UZO ADUBA: IT’S ALL IN THE EYESUZO ADUBA ON, CONFORMING TO HOLLYWOOD, HER NAME AND FINDING FAME AS ‘CRAZY EYES’

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Artist focus 3Uzo Aduba is one of 2014’s Breakout stars.

Her portrayal of “Crazy Eyes” in the Netflix hit series Orange is the New Black has deservedly catapulted her into stardom. Her efforts were recognised- winning her the 2014 Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series. Although the New York based actress had originally auditioned for the role of Janae, the track star, her acceptance of the Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” role has made her a television and internet sensation. (“I threw my pie for you.”)

Raised in Medfield, Massachusetts, she later attended Boston University, where she studied classical voice and competed in track and field. An accomplished theatre actress for a number of years, she has made appearances on Broadway. She earned recognition for her work in 2003, for her performance in “Translations of Xhosa.”

Ironically, the day she received the phone call informing her about the role she got on Orange is the New Black, she had decided to leave acting behind for good.

“It was so hard to hear all these nos- no, no, no and no again,” she reveals.

“I just thought, this is not for me.”

Coming from an immigrant family, Uzo faced a number of challenges coming up as an actress in the U.S. One thing she refused to do however was cave in to pressure to change her name into something more convenient for Hollywood. Recalling a childhood moment, she says: “My family is from Nigeria, and my full name is Uzoamaka, which means ‘The road is good.’ Quick lesson: My tribe is Igbo, and you name your kid something that tells your history and hopefully predicts your future. So anyway, in grade school, because my last name started with an A, I was the first in roll call, and nobody ever knew how to pronounce it. So I went home and asked my mother if I could be called Zoe. I remember she was cooking, and in her Nigerian accent she said, ‘Why?’ I said, ‘Nobody can pronounce it. Without missing a beat, she said, ‘If they can learn to say Tchaikovsky and Michelangelo and Dostoyvesky, they can learn to say Uzoamaka.”

Now living in New York the actress has expressed a desire to work with Meryl Streep and Daniel Day Lewis, as she admires their work ethic. Her own work ethic seems to be impeccable, as she delivers astounding performances on set as “Crazy Eyes.” Jumping in and out of character is quite an experience for the actress.

“I definitely need to shake her out after I’m done, because she stays with me, and I walk a lot afterward. I need to put her back on the shelf, and that’s becoming easier. But when I first started, there was this one line that really helped me to capture her. It said, ‘She’s innocent, like a child, except children aren’t scary.’ And that made me think of an adult-sized kid with, like, a pacifier and a sledgehammer.”

Aduba has reflected on how much television has progressed with regard to diversity, offering younger viewers a mirror they haven’t always had.

“It’s exciting to me to be on a show with so many different women being represented- women of colour, different sizes, different orientation and gender, all of these things are being touched on…and all are beautiful and being celebrated for that individuality.”

Her portrayal of “Crazy Eyes” has garnered the actress some interesting reactions from fans.

“I’ll be on the train and it’s like the people expect me to come in with Bantu knots and a jumpsuit, or just start striking conversations up with them while stroking their leg.”

The actress can be seen more regularly on the show as she was promoted to cast regular from Season 2, where her character took on a darker form. Aduba captures this aspect of the character expertly, all while maintaining her inner innocence. Audiences are introduced to Suzanne ‘the person’ beyond the ‘crazy eyes.’

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