Category Archives: Movement

Call for Art|Exhibition+Auction

Posted on November 7, 2010 | Leave a comment

CALL FOR ART

Curating for a Cause, Dreams for Kids & L2 lounge present:

3315 Cady’s Alley NW (between 33rd and 34th off of M Street) Washington, DC 20007

Deadline: November 22, 2010 –Curating for a Cause invites artists to submit work (NOT A DONATION) for an exhibition and auction of art to be held DECEMBER 3rd at the upscale evening establishment L2 in Georgetown. This is an international call and is open to all working in wide variety of media, including ceramics, glass, painting, photography, printmaking, video and sculpture to exhibit and sell.

We encourage artists to donate a maximum of 20 percent of each painting sold to Dreams for Kids Dream Leaders and Extreme Recess outreach programs, but it is not mandatory.

Dream Leaders- A leadership program that unites children of diverse backgrounds through community service and service learning through our After-School Clubs, In-School Workshops, and Dream Leader Conferences.

Extreme Recess- An adaptive sports program offering children with physical and developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate in adventure activities, often for the very first time

Please send inquiries and submissions to: Jackienicolecantwell@gmail.com

Directions for Entry

Image entry will be in the form of JPEG digital files only. Review will be by digital image only.

JPEGs should be no larger than 300 dpi at approximately 4 by 6 inches. All digital files must be in JPEG format and must include the artist’s name and title of the submission (smithpainting5.jpg). Please do not use quotations or spaces in file names. (Artists may submit up to 6 images for consideration.)  Website links will not be accepted as submissions.

Along with your Jpeg images should be an identification sheet describing your pieces. This sheet should include the title, dimensions of the work(s), medium, and any additional display requirements.

Please also include a minimum “suggested starting bid” for your work. This amount will be the starting bid for your work at the auction.

    Delivery

It is preferable that accepted work is hand delivered. You can contact me at (703)888-7591 to hand deliver the work to one of the following three locations:

2901 18th St NW # 212 ,Washington,DC 20009

Dreams For Kids (National Office)

2451 18th St NW * 2nd Floor (Adams Morgan) Washington, DC 20009

Artists are responsible for shipping their work if they choose to do so and work must be shipped in sturdy, reusable boxes.

Shipping address:

Jackie Cantwell—2901 18th st NW #212 Washington,DC 20009

RETURN SHIPPING MUST BE PREPAID AND ENCLOSED WITH ARTWORK!!! Neither the Dreams For Kids Foundation nor Curating for a Cause will be responsible for any damage incurred in transit.

Limitations

Final measurements must be inclusive of frame, if applicable. Weight may not exceed 100 pounds. All entries must have been conceived and created by the artist submitting the work. All work selected must be ready for exhibit: 2D work must be framed with secure hanging devices;  3D work must be suitably prepared with instructions for installation.  Provide pedestal if required.

Entry Check List

Please be sure you have completed and included all of the following:

  • Entry Form (L2 application)
  • Jpeg Images (up to 6)
  • Image description sheet
  • Suggested stating bid
  • Return postage (For mail)

Submit to:

Jackie Cantwell at Jackienicolecantwell@gmail.com

Who we are:

CURATING FOR A CAUSE

http://www.sarahcannon.net/?p=137 (Our last event)

We Curate exhibitions for fundraising events that include all mediums of art, music and performance, whether it is culinary or on paper we encourage 20% or more to be donated to a philanthropic cause. 



Planning events that are accessible to the public, exposing them to art music and culture.



 These are charity events where there’s food, music,… and there just happens to be high quality art that you might fall in love with… and its all to benefit a great cause.

www.dreamsforkids.org

http://www.l2lounge.com/

_ _ __ _____________________________________________________

 

Mark your calendars and make sure you support this great cause and event!

Selamawit

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The Grateful 5

Posted on June 25, 2010 | 5 Comments

 

Several months ago I started a new routine of listing out 5 really basic things I am grateful for in my life at the moment. I started doing it on my various social network accounts and finally now I want to keep it up and share it with everyone by doing it here on SHADE.

The list can really be comprised of anything you wish it to be and the purpose is to really have us all, especially at the end of a rough week and/or month to reflect on the positive aspects of our lives or just in life in general, especially when it seems too difficult to do so. So I’ll start with mine and I hope you’ll join me from now on with sharing your grateful 5.

1) My mustard seed.

2)  My President is black..educated…highly qualified…and doing the best he can. Sometimes I forget…then I see him in the post, with the Russian President eating a burger and I smile. And then I see the First Lady fighting obesity. And I smile even more.

3) Michael Jackson. 

4) Finally understanding and knowing how to build chords.

5) Photographs. They document the things we can’t remember and maybe the things we don’t want to remember. They are our fossils in a way; proof that we existed, had moments and how we were at a very specific moment in time.

So, what’s your Grateful 5?

Selamawit

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INTERVIEW: DMV Producer, Judah

Posted on April 20, 2010 | 4 Comments

Early last week, I heard about a hip/hop documentary viewing called “Bridging the Gap”, going on at the Historical Society. The film was being pushed by DMV music producer Judah, Dre of ABB Video, Sophia “The Historian” Nelson of Ordinary People Books and the Hip Hop Cinema collective. I was really curious to find out more information about the documentary and also get a chance to see what else Judah was up to, since I and am sure many others know him strictly for his music. After connecting with Sasha Vann of Ego Marketing & Branding Constitute, and Judah himself, we managed to all have a pretty interesting discussion. Take a look for yourself:

The Producer

Tell me a little bit of how the music making process is with you. Where do you get inspired? How do you go about making your beats?

I am motivated by music, fashion and a lot of times my emotions dictate how the creative process goes and type of record I’m doing. These days I focus on the artist on hand and let them and the project inspire me. So for instance, now I am working on a record with Mick Boogie and also an Outkast remix album. So each of those will separately inspire my work because they are different projects and vision, and I’ll know what to make by going off that.

One bit of advice the you today would give the you when first starting out?

Get your foundation right. It’s not always about “handling your business”. It’s really important to first have and build relationships with local scene. Especially in today’s climate these relationships can get you paid and keep you paid. Always start with your community then move outwards.

Anyone you want to work with who you haven’t with yet in the area?

Recently just finished up something with Phil Ade and few others but I have pretty much worked with just about everyone here. Now on a more major, mainstream level, I would love to work with Kanye. I think he is one of the best lyricists out there. Also I’d love to work with Jay Electronica and Scarface would be the ultimate opportunity.

What new element do you want to introduce sonically to the local music scene?

I want to introduce more classy, tastemaker events. The quality of music has diminished here. Part of reason I did the Amber Rose project was to add something different to the scene and give it a different look and approach to music here. No more about just hipster or just gangster music, trying to find something completely different and present it as such.
You have a website too, www.forthedmvonly.com tell me a little about that.

The website is really meant to be an outlet for artists in the area who have difficulty getting on the major sites like Nahright and Okayplayer. Also it is mainly for out-of-towners who want to be hip to local scene and can’t get that from the other major sites because they aren’t posting enough on us, plus my name could possibly help in some way with getting them the recognition that a lot of them deserve.
Most others in the area have this “crab in a barrel” complex…has that not hit you yet? or you just trying the whole “kill them with kindness deal”?

This complex existed 10 years ago when I was starting out and it is still here. Personally, I have reached certain age where I am satisfied and comfortable with who I am to no longer care. There are plenty of artists and producers who speak negatively of me but yet still come to see me. At the end of the day, you shouldn’t care what people write on blogs or comment about you. To be completely honest, I am sure that some of the people who talk bad about me will be at the viewing at the event. It could be for a number of reasons, and I am okay with it and despite the fact, I’ll always let them know that I support their work and endeavors.

Why are you such a recluse? There are some producers who are more out and about and seen everywhere….then few like you who don’t do too much of all that….seems like you are trying to be on a more Q (as in Quincy Jones) path and not a Kanye path…am I right?

I don’t go out anymore because I feel like I’ve been there and done that and seen what the scene and lifestyle is all about. I am not trying to be an artist, or rather a performing artist. Sure, I write songs but mainly to channel any creative energy that I may be feeling at the moment. As far as who I’d pattern my work ethic to it would right now definitely be Dilla. Regardless of the check amount or what type of benefit he could have gained by working with a lot of people, he was only interested in working with people he liked and whose music he appreciated. I want to run myself by that type of integrity. When you reach certain age, life becomes clearer and priorities change and this is where I am right now.

Lastly, Say tomorrow…you lost your hands. Freak Accident…Burned them beyond repair making oatmeal, some wild shit. You can’t ever make music again. So, If you weren’t doing music you would be doing….

I would always be doing something that is business oriented whether it was contracting or real estate. Also I could still produce music even if I physically couldn’t press the buttons anymore. I would still own a studio, the one I have now is going on 11 years and if this kind of thing happened, I would just find a good engineer to physically do the work while I would still be able to create.

The Event: Bridging the Gap Documentary Viewing

Let’s get the basics behind the event. Who really initiated this idea? Who made the first calls?

This all came to be from the November 1st, 2009 DMV Photo Day. There were 200 plus artists and it snowballed into Dre of ABB Video Productions wanting to do something with all this video footage from the day of. We then pulled in Sophia “The Historian” Nelson, a writer and affiliate of Ordinary People Books to produce the content.
How involved were you in the entire process? From idea to production/filming to editing. When did you hop in?

I personally don’t like writing but assisted with the direction and vision of the film. I knew a lot of the people from the video, and the stories about the older artists who the newer people out here really don’t know about.
How do you know ABB? What made this collab come to be? And with Historical Society?  Was it a conscious decision to work with society? or is this just how everything played out?

I have known Dre for about 3 years just from having worked together previously with some music videos (most recent one was the Choose Wisely video, check it out here )

I have known Sophia for about year and half and we all connected with Kimani of Hip Hop Cinema cafe who became the plug to the venue, Historical Society. We were really glad to go with this venue because it had the exact feel and look of what we were looking for and how we wanted to present this project. It was perfect location, classy and tasteful and not just any regular venue.

I assume you have of course seen the final version many times….so anything you would like to change about it? or you can honestly without a doubt say you are content with final version?

I am completely content with where it is now. We may send it to other film societies and that point tweak it as we push forward with it.

Will this be a series you think? or simply one shot deal?

Creatively it is where it is now. Of course we will keep it going to and may make other documentaries. As of now there is no series in the works but we will push this one as far as it can go and see where it goes. Main reason of this documentary was to educate the newer artist about the area and about the artists way before them who had deals. Also to make sure the older artists felt a sense of accomplishment, and felt that their efforts are definitely noticed and respected. We should all feel proud of our city and that we will continue to make it recognized.

The Future

Of DMV Music? You think any other genres will finally penetrate the scene? Seems to be too hip hop or rock heavy…(I’m personally big on eclectic fusion music which is seriously lacking here….what’s your take on what will be the “next”?)

Hip Hop is easier to “access” meaning you can just see it at any event and not difficult to set up venue to see and hear that type of music. Also there are a significantly larger amount of participants within Hip Hop. There are not enough venues that support other genres. Also, a lot of the new artists aren’t even doing traditional hip hop, they are fusing other sounds. So it looks like every genre is starting to have a more even playing field. How do you create this kind of space where all genres can participate? By people in R&B and alternative genres creating it. Those are the artists which require special type of venues and more space to perform.

Of Hip Hop specifically? Any individuals you think will take it to the next level? I saw in an interview that you said Wale had it good for a second but its dying down for dmv now so who will bring it back you think?

I think as a collective effort we can definitely take it to the next level. However I still feel like it’s dying down in this area. Mainstream has moved on with us. It could have definitely been stronger if more artists were signed. Wale came but there was no follow-up. It’s really disappointing especially when you look at other regions. Ours didn’t flourish like the others. We have great purchasing power here, especially for down south artists. It is a great market so it can’t be a purchasing issue. It seems as though the A&R’s aren’t educated enough about the scene because there is a wealth of talent. Also the people with the voice and some ability to change this aren’t speaking up. Meaning, If I have a deal, it would be beneficial to feature major and local acts because that exposes their talent. It would create a domino effect, because more exposure increases the worth of the artists and the area. This is necessary to cultivate the scene. This is not just about Wale either, the same can be said about other local artists who went major. I am not saying what they are doing is entirely wrong but I am taking note and and saying this is what we really need to do to start a true movement and put DC permanently on the map.

Your next move? Musically….is film production your next realm? You did your own music video (which I personally thought was great) and now this docu…do you think this is an area you want to keep working in? or just strictly music for you from now on?

I am working on few music projects, like I mentioned the Outkast remix album is one. As far as videos go, I’ll definitely be doing more, not specifically for others unless that is something I am approached to do, but otherwise I am going to continue working on branding and incorporating more art in my work whether that is music or videos.

Lastly just for the heck of it, because I always like to ask people off-the-wall questions….It’s your last meal on earth. You are only allowed 3 guests to dine with you. Who’s invited? And why?

Obama because he’s the First black president. John Lennon to talk about music with and lastly Hitler, just because I’ve always been intrigued and to ask what were you thinking??

____________________________________

This interview was done two days prior to the actual viewing of the documentary. I managed to catch the last viewing time of the documentary. I thought it was a good and arguably much needed start in right direction to shedding light on the numerous local artists from years ago who not many of us can honestly name nor know much about. Also, it was great to see the number of people who turned out for the event. It was great also to see how serious and dedicated Sophia, Dre and Judah are to this film and where they want to take it because there was a Q&A segment at the end of the viewing where it was essentially an open floor for any type of question and/or comment. People all generally enjoyed the film but also noted and suggested some areas, whether it was filmically, or content-wise or even marketing-wise how to take the film to the next level. All three definitely took in everyone’s suggestions and you could see that they are really trying to create a more harmonious DMV music scene with this documentary but also develop a more progressive and tasteful brand and image of the area. I’m sure this won’t be the last we will see of their work as a collective and on an individual level.

Over and out,

Selamawit

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DMV EVENT-12/12 NAS+DAMIAN MARLEY

Posted on November 19, 2009 | 1 Comment

Hey folks,

A great friend of mine, Christine(1/2 of LunchboxTheory) has been working really hard over at  National Geographic to get the word out to the masses about this amazing event called Distant Relatives at National Geographic. It’s going to be NAS+DAMIAN MARLEY.in.one.room. (and there’s several other Hip/Hop greats in the building too! like Kool Herc, Rakim, Daddy U-Roy, King Jammy, Jeff Chang, Moussa Lo and DJ Red Alert). A HIP HOP and REGGAE panel discussion…AND THEN an AFTERPARTY (there will be an OPEN MIC at the party…so all local artists should definitely make sure to come and you know the greats themselves will PERFORM! so you know you don’t want to miss that!). Event is on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12th, 2009. Tickets became available Tuesday after midnight. And you are probably wondering…how much? and What does a ticket give me access to, right? Tickets are $25.BUT  JUST WAIT, that INCLUDES not only seating at the panel discussion but also covers your admission into the afterparty later that night.So you know, soon as I heard about this event, I wasted no time to purchase my ticket yesterday at work.Yes it’s that serious. Tickets are limited too! So you better hurry up and get yours!

Here’s the Press Release below if you want detailed information on the whole project and the all the people behind it:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE TO PRESENT RECORDING ARTISTS NAS AND DAMIAN ‘JR. GONG’ MARLEY FOR SPECIAL PROGRAM

‘Distant Relatives’ Event Dec. 12 Will Feature Hip-Hop and Reggae Legends In Conversation Moderated by MTV VJ Sway, Made Possible by VTech

WASHINGTON (Nov. 18, 2009)—National Geographic Live will conclude its fall event series with a one-of-a-kind evening with some of hip-hop’s most legendary figures. “Distant Relatives,” sponsored by VTech, will feature hip-hop icon Nas and Grammy-winning artist Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, son of Bob Marley, in a discussion about the often under-appreciated evolution of and deep-rooted connections between reggae and hip-hop.

Joining them for this conversation, moderated by MTV VJ Sway, will be key players in the development of both musical genres, including Kool Herc, Rakim, Daddy U-Roy, King Jammy, Jeff Chang, Pat McKay, Waterflow and DJ Red Alert.

The event will take place at National Geographic’s Grosvenor Auditorium on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased online at www.nglive.org, via telephone at (202) 857-7700, or in person at the National Geographic ticket office between
9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Tickets purchased online can be picked up in the lobby prior to the event.

Hip-hop, now a multibillion-dollar industry, originated as a vital form of cultural expression in Africa that was translocated by the slave trade to the Caribbean and the American colonies. It blossomed a half century ago in the dance halls of Kingston, Jamaica, and soon migrated to the parks jams and recreational centers of New York City, where the culture became known as hip-hop.

This evolution forms the basis of the “Distant Relatives” music project, a collaborative effort by Marley and Nas, which will comprise an album set for release in early 2010, a documentary film, performances and a series of public discussions, the first of which is this event hosted by National Geographic.

An open-mic party will be hosted at popular Washington nightclub Zanzibar following the event. National Geographic ticket holders will receive free admission with proof of purchase. For more information on the Zanzibar event, visit www.zanzibar-otw.com.

This event also will be streamed live and broadcast online at www.natgeomusic.net.

About National Geographic Live
National Geographic Live is the performing arts division of the National Geographic Society, featuring live concerts, films and dynamic presentations by today’s leading explorers, scientists, filmmakers and photographers, covering a wide range of topics, including exploration and adventure; wildlife and habitat conservation; natural phenomena; world cultures and ancient history; and relevant issues such as climate change and sustainability. Proceeds from speaker series help fund future National Geographic initiatives in field research, exploration and education. For more information, visit www.nglive.org.

About Nat Geo Music
Nat Geo Music, a division of National Geographic Entertainment, was established in 2007 to inspire people to care about the planet through the power of music. Content developed by Nat Geo Music is utilized across all National Geographic platforms, including online media, radio, print media, film and television. The Nat Geo Music label, launched in January 2009, records, releases and promotes modern music from around the globe from a variety of artists and genres. The Nat Geo Music Channel programs music from every corner of the planet and showcases global legends, local stars and up-and-coming artists. For more information, visit www.natgeomusic.net.

About VTech
VTech is one of the world’s largest suppliers of corded and cordless telephones and a leading supplier of electronic learning products. It also provides highly sought-after contract manufacturing services. Founded in 1976, the Group’s mission is to be the most cost-effective designer and manufacturer of innovative, high-quality consumer electronics products and to distribute them to markets worldwide in the most efficient manner. For further information on VTech’s blogs and its array of products, please visit www.vtechphones.com.

About “Distant Relatives”
“Distant Relatives” is an album created by two great artists to explore and celebrate the correlations and deep-rooted connections between reggae and hip-hop, tracing both sounds back to the African motherland that is both the cradle of humanity and the wellspring of mankind’s music. Unlike all previous collaborations between Jamaican and American artists, “Distant Relatives” is neither a remix nor a featured guest spot on a single track but a fully collaborative effort filling an entire album, opening new avenues of musical expression. Who better to fulfill this long-overdue mission? The youngest son of the legendary Bob Marley, and a hip-hop icon since 1991: Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and Nas, whose success as a duo was proved in 2006 with the double-Grammy-Award-winning “Road to Zion.”
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Contacts:
Stephanie Montgomery
National Geographic
202-857-5838
smontgom@ngs.org

Carleen Donovan
Press Here Publicity
212-246-2640
carleen@pressherepublicity.com

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I really hope to see you all there! Don’t wait too long to purchase your tickets! This is one event you will not want to miss out on!

-Selamawit

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The Commercialized Pandemic

Posted on October 29, 2009 | Leave a comment

Because temporary pity doesn’t bring security for the future

by Whitney McGuire

December 1st, 2006 was an overcast day, but that didn’t deter me from venturing across campus to see famed rapper Ludacris speak to the GW community about the AIDS pandemic. I made my way across campus skipping one class, I must admit, to hear what Ludacris could possibly say about such a pressing issue. I admit I was skeptical. Aside from getting an HIV test the day before, I decided to wear my overpriced “INSPI(RED)” t-shirt from the (PRODUCT)RED line begun by U2’s Bono as an attempt to show my support for the AIDS pandemic and to vainly draw attention from Luda to myself. I entertained the latter thought very briefly. I digress.

RED+shirt
Well I certainly didn’t get attention from Ludacris, but what I got was an increase in my initial skepticism about this visit in general. Prior to attending this event, I laughed candidly with friends about the notion of Ludacris giving a speech about AIDS. I even dissuaded my boss, involuntarily, from going to the event by telling her that he was not coming to perform, but he was in fact coming to talk to us. I couldn’t help but think to myself after these incidents, “really, why was Ludacris coming to speak to us (read: seemingly health savvy/ able to afford HIV and AIDS drugs- college students) about the pandemic”?

product-red-gap-campaign

My thoughts stayed with me as the lights in the theater dimmed. Flash bulbs from area newspapers and magazines sporadically illuminated the darkness. The clapping of the audience subsided as the likes of Charlize Theron, Kelly Rowland of Destiny’s Child, Ashley Judd, and of course Ludacris graced a projection screen in front of us imitating the “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” gestures that made three monkeys famous at one point. I digress once more. These A-list celebrities urged us (once again, seemingly health savvy/ able to afford HIV and AIDS drugs) college students to become aware of the AIDS pandemic and to give – the optimal word here– to a worthy cause by purchasing a trinket, a necklace of some sort (which was probably made in China, but that’s an unfair assumption) at your nearest ALDO shoe store for only $5.00! I along with other audience members became increasingly uncomfortable as the faces appeared more frequently and everything else they were saying seemed to be edited to repeat the optimal word give or better yet, buy. At this point, my INSPI(RED) shirt became less and less appealing.

 

From this event I learned that Ludacris became aware of the sense of urgency to educate others about the AIDS pandemic while filming his “Pimpin’ all Over the World” video in South Africa (The irony is just too overwhelming right now. Hopefully he was prophylactic-ally protected while he was doing all of that “pimpin!’” I digress once again.) He mentioned that DC was one of the most infected cities in North America (1 out of 20 DC residents is infected with the virus according to the Center for Disease Control); therefore his visit to GW was somewhat warranted, aside from Sigma Phi Epsilon’s push to showcase this event as a philanthropic effort (Kudos to them by the way for raising over 30,000 dollars for this cause. Trust me we were reminded quite often of their generous donation).

The audience was quite receptive. No one heckled Ludacris about his promiscuous lyrics, partially because he forewarned the audience that he practices safe sex and that his lyrics such as “shake your money maker” are about having fun, and partially because we didn’t really care about the speaker’s image– that’s more for universities like Northwestern and Harvard. We just wanted to know what more we could do to increase the education about this pandemic in our own city. Several statements were made that seemed to follow the same grain: “GW students are typically not from DC, able to afford health care, and are extremely educated about the risk of contracting HIV and AIDS. The majority of people mentioned in the former statistic are not here at GW, but in the greater DC community.” These statements were ignored by the expert from Youthaids.org sitting to Ludacris’s left.

113006-Ludacris-500

The commercialization of the AIDS pandemic has become a temporary attempt to garner attention to a permanent—although, hopefully, a weakening—problem. Julie Potyraj, a sophomore here at GW, says that these A-Listers might think that “it’s cool to help [the poor]” but this fad “only helps as long as people are interested. The fate of impoverished children lies at the mercy of the Hollywood A-List and commodity hungry spenders.”

What I couldn’t get out of my mind was this internal dilemma; I don’t believe that these marketing campaigns make me feel any more secure about the future of this pandemic. I would have been more moved by hearing a testimony from an actual HIV/ AIDS survivor than celebrities. But on the other hand, I’m so glad that these proceeds are going towards this cause. It seems, however, that that is where it stops. What is the cause? Is it AIDS education within the inner city, the city in which we undeniably reside? Is it pressuring various African governments to start instituting AIDS awareness programs? I am not sure. The various non-profit organizations that were present that day seemed to offer more suggestions as to treatment, prevention and volunteer opportunities than the “expert” and rapper on the stage. The popularization of this pandemic has become, as Julie stated, cool. Let’s face it, sex sells, even if it kills you. I, like Julie, just hope that people will still care “after Madonna stops adopting African Children” and after ALDO finds something else to market. The fate of this pandemic should not lie at the mercy of Hollywood’s A-List.

For more information please visit the following sites:
www.youthaids.org
eric.ed.gov
www.cdc.gov
www.condoms4life.org
doh.dc.gov
www.unaids.org


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3rd Annual Mandingueiros Batizado 2009

Posted on October 21, 2009 | 3 Comments

DSCN6671

Recently, I went to the 3rd Annual Mandingueiros Batizado 2009, a regional Capoeira event in Alexandria, VA.  A good childhood friend of mine, Sami Ahmed (“Selo” as he is referred to by his fellow capoeiristas), has been involved and practicing capoeira for several years [and was actually receiving his new cord to become a monitor at this event!]. Any ideas about capoeira I had were due to films I may have seen that showed some capoeira, or my roommate’s description of her college beginners level class. However, those stories are no where near how great it is to be there in person and see and watch people practicing Capoeira. I got to witness the actual batizado, which is essentially the ceremonial process in which individuals become official members and receive either their first cords or new ones symbolizing their transition onto a higher level.

DSCN6666

Following the batizado, I got a chance to talk to his instructor and creator of Grupo Ondas, Silas Pinto. Silas Pinto was born and raised in Cape Verde. His parents ran a church and were very religious. Due to the lack of adequate educational and career opportunities, Pinto moved to 1989 to the U.S. to go to University of Rhode Island. He went all the way to receive his doctorate in psychology. He is now a Tufts University Graduate level professor in psychology. He has a wife , 2 kids aged 3 1/2 year and 1 year old.

During his university years, he decided he wanted to learn capoeira and start sharing it with other people so he created Grupo Ondas. Grupo Ondas was officially created in 1996 and originates from Rhode Island at University of Rhode Island. In capoeira, there are three center styles: Regional, Contemporary, and Angola. Grupo Ondas practices regional. Silas wanted to take traditional brazilian capoeira and introduce other cultures to it and vice versa. It is well-known among capoeiristas that Brazilian’s tend to be very protective about their capoeira. The current Grupo Ondas logo has Cape Verde flag because Silas wanted the group to reflect unity and cross-cultural significance. Initially, Silas based the group out of URI, since that provided the necessary financial support for travel and outreach that a university could provide in those early days. Overtime, the group started to be more widely accepted especially among other more traditional capoeiristas. Now it has roughly 150-200 members and managers to maintain the operational aspect of the ever-growing group.

Here’s how the rest of our conversation about Grupo Ondas and capoeira went:

How can Capoeira apply to other aspects of someone’s life? What tools have you used from this art to apply to rest of life?

I learned about respect. Respect for people of different ethinicities and ages. We learned about self-control, discipline, friendship, community, protect not destruct. Motto is: build true confidence, knowledge in mind, honesty in heart, and strength in body.

Why should  someone start learning? If you were to convince a young working adult to start practicing what would you say?

Many times people are attracted to Capoeira simply for the aesthetics of it. It looks cool and fun to everyone. Personally, I stayed because of the challenge on all levels. Its not just a sport but it actually makes you a better person because of the people you meet and principles you learn. People come in and out of our group often because ultimately they are a bit anarchy-minded. Discipline and rules are key to learning and excelling in capoeira. Ultimately, capoeira chooses you as does any sport. How well you do in this sport is determinant usually on two factors: 1) innate ability to do well in this specific sport 2) proper training.

Where would you like the group to go from here? Future Plans?

Well in regards to the studio space, it is open to existence of the mall. The studio just serves to be useful space for our group and community. [sidenote: over the past 5 years there have been reports that Landmark Mall is suppose to close]. DSCN6670

In regards to Grupo Ondas, I would like to see more focus on inner structure. I don’t want to lose personal relationship I have with each student. Knowing their names, family members. At the same time,  I still want it to grow so that it can be financially stable and can run itself. Ideally, I would like to have it so that the schools are spawned from our own, meaning our current students continue on to be instructors.

This is the 3rd Annual Mandingueiros Batizado. What’s been the biggest change you have seen since the 1st one? What’s been biggest challenge? Proudest moment?

This is the 3rd annual OPEN batizado, meaning its for everyone who takes the course. We have had 6 inner batizados over the years. Much has changed over the years as expected. When we first started the highest level attained by the students at the time was 2nd, and now students are at the 7th level. The business itself has transformed. We went from using a room in Golds Gym to having full access to an actual studio. The biggest challenge is of course money, not that easy to get donors and financial support. As for the proudest moment? Well honestly it was when I gave my wife her graduado cord while she was 8months pregnant.

When you receive the cord it means you are an understanding person of this system. Therefore, you represent the school. Sami (Selo) comments,  “It is much more personal when you receive a cord here than in any other sports or schools. It is a very big deal and the energy is high the entire time. For instance in Taekwondo, there are so many people to even begin to appreciate the moment. The cord giving/receiving moment is also a 1st impression of sorts too, to show them there is a reason to keep coming. It’s not just a sport you become trained in, you are also joining a family.”

I am fully responsible for this school. Selo is monitor, meaning he manages it on a more frequent basis. I live and work out of Rhode Island, so there is a lot of traveling involved for everyone from RI to Boston to here and back.

Oh also, whats with the all white? (referring to the white uniforms capoeiristas wear)

I have a  few theories:

1) Traditionally Sundays everyone wore white to church so people would stay in their church clothes then joda.

2) When you wear white you have to keep it clean, so the way you differentiate whether someone is a beginner or not is by how dirty and/or clean your outfit was.

My theory?

In 1930s they all started wearing white because Master Bimba wore white to a joda. Before him, capoeira was illegal and people were seen as vagabonds and were arrested. Master Bimba tried to legalize it and would wear white uniform to make the sport look more professional.Sub-consciously,  white is generally seen as pure (as opposed to black). It is said now that we wear it for tradition not because we believe in it. Cannot possibly ignore the power and effect of colonialism and history behind all this. Now, as an instructor and leader, I am trying to get the students to change their opinion, so in our school the graduados (beginners) wear black. This all started back when I was starting out and actually got in trouble for innocently wearing black to a joda. It was seen as a sign of disrespect for me to wear black to the event and I of course so nothing wrong with So when I created the group, I altered the traditions. For instance, in this group, all members have animal names and beginners wear black because symbolic of respect and reminder of how to communicate.

After the interview winded down, I bid my farewells to Sami and Silas and  the few remaining at the studio as they chatted away about the celebrations that were in store for later that night.

It is definitely refreshing to see that there are local groups and communities that nurture and support the development of different art forms and practices. Here’s a video clip that gives you just a glimpse into what Grupo Ondas does:

If you would like more information about Grupo Ondas and/or taking capoeira classes, email the instructor, Sami (Selo) at selocapoeira@gmail.com

-Selamawit

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She’s more than just a do

Posted on July 23, 2009 | Leave a comment

michelle-obama-new-hairdo

Chic. Sophisticated. Grounded.Educated.Poised. All words I have read and heard used countless number of times to describe our First Lady, Mrs. Michelle Obama, and she is fully deserving of all those descriptions, however I want people to say more about her and her work as First Lady when all is said and done.

Anytime I look to read anything about her, the focus of the piece is always on her appearance and demeanor, and then there will be small reference to the actual work and purpose behind what she was doing. She recently got a new hair-do and its been all over the news…but It did not mention where she was or what she was doing when that picture was taken. Earlier in the year, when she went with several Senator’s wives and Mrs. Biden included, to give out food to underprivileged people, all the media focused on was her shoes. Her fucking shoes. Why they cost so much and who was paying for it.

I want to question why the media has not ventured deeper into understanding our First Lady. I feel that its important to veer away from the fashion, looks, hair-dos, accessories and start to focus in on the actual work she has been doing prior to become First Lady and her first couple months holding that title. I find it is starting to get absurd that every time Michelle is conducting a social project, whether that be planting a garden on the White House lawn, or giving out food to the underprivileged or even visiting the Vatican alongside her husband, all the attention only goes to her attire and appearance. Most times comments are positive and a few times not so much. The point is, I want people to adore her just as much as I do for not just her great style and poise but also for what she is actually doing as The First Lady. I do not want another Jackie-O reference made. Yes, yes I get it Jackie was Chic and the epitome of a lady, but what did she actually DO thats remembered even now? I personally cannot think of one thing. Quite frankly, I did not even know she was a college-educated woman until I saw a dorm named after her on my GWU campus. In all fairness, I am sure she was an accomplished woman but at the end of the day the only thing that is remembered about her is her classic fashion style and her prominent husbands. I want more for a First Lady. I definitely want more for this First Lady. I want her to be placed in same category as Eleanor Roosevelt and Hillary Clinton. Strong, highly educated, opinionated and passionate women who are actually remembered as such. The parties, the galas, the personalized designer duds are all great and well-deserved but there just has to be more…substance, gusto, initiating & creating.

Don’t get it twisted, I am in no way criticizing her. I love her! I think she is great. What I am asking is that her team reevaluate what sort of legacy they want to leave surrounding her name and this presidency. I do not want another typical First Lady who is only seen throwing parties, schmoozing with foreign dignitaries, and donning latest styles. At same time, I do not want a quiet White House closed off from rest of world, as we have seen from the last presidency. All I am asking is that the media and her team emphasize her work whether that be visiting a school, giving a speech to soldiers, or lending a helping hand at local shelter.

Quite frankly, I feel like she is being muted. On so many levels. Most of you may not agree with me, few may, but I am just shedding light on this trend I am noticing going on in the media and perhaps done intentionally so by her team of people around her.  I feel that its okay now to let her speak up and let her be more vocal about more issues besides what I consider “safe topics” such as family, health and education. I feel that talking about what she is wearing and her different looks is great and should be done. But that is not all to her legacy. I refuse to let it be just that.

So I will remain hopeful that there will come a turning point in which news of her philanthropic work and educated views and opinions about various matters will outshine and precede talks of her glamour and style choices.

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Prosperity is Relative

Posted on April 17, 2009 | Leave a comment

800px-world_bank_income_groups1

The African nations that comprise the 2nd largest continent in the world have been aiming for prosperity in all sectors of society since the independence era of 1950s. Has much changed? Some argue no, others argue yes. In my opinion, the answer is all relative. Geographical location, Geopolitical importance, economics, cultural values, religion, health, and history are the key factors that determine the answer to such a question. There are arguments that claim that colonialism is also worth noting. However, that is a topic of discussion which I will not divulge into, yet. For this specific piece, I want to examine the current state of a specific country that has been in the news recently: Zimbabwe. The general history of Zimbabwe is not that different from that of the other 51 countries comprising Africa. However, there are key differences that have brought the country to its current state. The key issues that led to the occurrence of the events from the last 2 weeks are: colonialism, land reform, and African political traditions.

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Why was there such uproar the past few months in Zimbabwe over Mugabe’s refusal to turn over power? Perhaps it is the displacement of natives from their wealthy, fertile lands by the black natives. Perhaps it is a very complicated statement to say the least. In my opinion, the answer is all relative. As are most issues that plague us day-to-day.

mugabe-shrugs

Recently I had a very heated discussion with a group of people about the current political climate in my native country of  Ethiopia. There were prominent business men, students, blue-collar workers, and the unemployed amidst the crowd. We discussed the current food crisis, effectiveness of previous administrations, role of the upper-class and gender rights. We argued back and forth for several hours; sometimes it escalated into shout matches amongst the seven of us. However, in the end it was clear that there was no clear resolution; the progress that an up-and-coming business man from a prominent background sought was drastically different than the one envisioned by the young radical student. Progress for some meant support the current administrations usage of corruption, money laundering, and U.S. appeasement as a necessary towards widening the country’s foreign investment, expanding its export/import market, and deepening the pockets of the few and privileged. Progress for some meant criticizing the current administration meanwhile supporting the national church that remains silent in times of social upheaval and injustice and for the few of us left, progress meant reacting and implementing change.

Initially I remained quiet as the discussion progressed over time, mainly out of exhaustion, but also because this type of discussion is what I live for, what I studied, what I really know (but not limited to). In addition, I knew in this specific discussion, I would be the radical; the militant, the extremist, the feminist, the idealist, the Marxist, the socialist, etc I could go on and on about what labels you could tag to my shouts and cries of injustice. Personally, I don’t mind these titles. I think it suggests that you’re not afraid to think differently and more importantly you’re not afraid to commit and implement the change necessary to bring life to these words. And as I tried to gather my thoughts, feelings and frustrations at the comments made throughout this group discussion, one specific word resonated in my ears: prosperity.

What does that even mean? As it was blurted out of one person’s mouth because he was arguing that the country was prospering and things were better than they have been in hundreds of years, comparatively speaking, I thought about what the other 72million people thought of such a statement. Hell, even I agreed with him to some extent. Things were better in some ways and devastatingly worse in others. But then I removed myself from the circle and looked at everyone. The same person who made this comment was a prominent business man, whose wealthy well-respected father built the foundation for him to have the success he has today; person of his position is allowed the ability to reap the benefits of a corrupt government that poorly manages its national funds and schemes the world into giving it more “aid money” to fatten their pockets a little more as the poor and destitute are starving and ravaged by disease.

And how did they view me? Well, they saw me as the Americanized unknowing young radical who was too-educated and empowered, perhaps for her own good; a young woman who could never understand the way things were and would “always” be in African realm of politics. I was the outsider.

The Activist

So at that moment, I became even more enraged and helpless than I already felt at the onset of the discussion.

And in my anger, I blurted out: Ignorance is bliss. And it is. Sometimes, it really is. But I pressed on, as in my eyes; it couldn’t have been that simple of answer for why no one addresses all of these issues.

So, I started shouting out questions to everyone, as to whether they voted in elections, they donated to charities, they adhered to international labor laws, they had food drives, sponsored a child, or helped fundraise to rebuild a school or clinic . I could go on and on what I thought they could do to give back. What was I met with? A mixture of murmurs and shouting, as everyone was grasping at an opportunity to either avoid my questions or completely dismiss me again as the ignorant-judgmental-slightly ethnocentric outsider. Completely unaware of the day-to-day life struggle in the city and countryside faced by the masses. And as the discussion progressed and they provided their own personal day-to-day problems of living under corrupt and difficult times, I realized that I too was feeding into the very ignorance I slandered their names with; that I was enjoying a little bit of this same bliss being here in the US.

So where did it go from there? Well, there was no real agreement met on anything except that things were different in Ethiopia, that whether life was better or worse was relative to each individual citizen. That even the very nature of how we engaged in this discussion is display of how African politics play out: great initiatives suggested but minimal to nonexistent cooperation and implementation occurs. It’s this idea that life goes on, and it really does. Whether the deaths of the masses are seen as a form of population control (pc) or a result of ineffective economic development policies seems irrelevant at this point. I share this story with you, not to rant on and on about what movement needs to develop, or what changes need to occur to create some utopian world, but rather to be a soundboard of thoughts, opinions, and initiatives.

As the author of this article, I didn’t intend to go on a tirade about the injustices of the world and how a revolution of sorts will be televised, because in my opinion, it won’t, (at least not all at once) because much of the world is full of talkers and not doers. Many speak of progress and desire for change, but yet they are the same people who don’t exercise their right to vote or even make the attempt to register. Many speak of ideals but fail to practice them in their day-to-day existence. We all are a part of this human chain linked across all seven continents; the relative prosperity felt in the favelas of Brazil, does determine and effect the standard of life in Accra, Ghana and wraps around all the way to Manila in the Philippines.

So back to the first statement regarding prosperity: yes, prosperity is relative. And yes, ignorance is bliss, sometimes. But this relativity is dependent on the type and manner of action and initiative we take towards that very progress and development we so desire. So experience, grow, and act, because if not, there’s no guarantee that you won’t meet the same fate as this guy:

prosperity

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