Women Who Made History: Princess Grace of Monaco

Princess Grace of Monaco; otherwise known as the actress Grace Kelly, lived every little girl’s fairytale dream – of being a world famous Hollywood actress and marrying a Prince.  After tragically dying in a car accident aged just 52, Grace’s life itself was like an onscreen movie. Here, in our opinion, is why she was a woman who made history.

Grace Kelly was one of Hollywood’s most popular actresses in the 1950s. Ranked 13 in the list of top female stars of American cinema by the American Film Institute, Grace’s name is spoken in the same breath as silver screen legends Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.  These women were in a league of grace, dignity, class and elegance of their own that most actresses nowadays can only dream of, but more importantly, they were amongst a group of early female go-getters. During a time where male stars dominated, women such as Grace Kelly fought to become on a par with their counterparts.  From the 50s; at the height of Grace’s career, the era in which she won her first ever Golden Globe for her part in ‘Mogambo’,  Grace and the elite few, unbeknown at the time, set the standards for female actresses of today.

Grace had more to offer than just being a beautiful and talented actress; she wanted to show more depth to her character instead of what was portrayed from her Hollywood persona.  At the tender age of 26, Grace gave up the life of flashy lights and fame to take on her role as the Princess of Monaco, alongside her husband Rainier III, Prince of Monaco. A mother to three children – Caroline Louise Marguerite, Princess of Hanover, Albert II, Prince of Monaco and Princess Stephanie Marie Elisabeth – Kelly still managed to start and actively be involved with improving arts institutes in Monaco, leading to the ‘The Princess Grace Of Monaco Foundation’ to support local artisans.

After much outcry in Monaco over movies she starred in, and not being able to fulfill her yearning to act, Grace began a series of poetry readings and narrating television shows.  Arts was Grace’s passion; a passion left behind in Hollywood but never forgotten.  In 1963, Grace founded the Association Mondiale des Amis de l’Enfance (AMADE) – in Englsh, the World Association of Children’s Friends – an organization which promotes and protects children’s rights. AMADE is still going strong till this day, ensuring that Grace Kelly’s legacy lives on further than her superficial reputation of just being an actress and marrying a Prince.

Grace Kelly was a princess, a mother, a wife, a movie star, a fashion idol and a humanitarian, and will forever be an icon to women all across the globe.

If anyone is interested in finding out about the evolution of Grace Kelly as a style icon, her wardrobe will be on display at the V&A museum in London.  Accompanying the contents of Grace’s wardrobe - from her time as a Hollywood actress and as Princess Grace of Monaco – will be film clips, posters, photographs and also her Oscar statuette. The ‘Grace Kelly: Style Icon’ exhibition will begin on the 17^th April 2010 and run through until the 26^th September 2010.

Image Layouts: Yee

Terry Richardson Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Not sure if this is really “news”, but apparently, Terry Richardson is a perv. Um, have you seen his photos? Was there any doubt about him being a dirty person who probably didn’t hold women in the highest regard?

What’s different now is that the proof is not only in the photos, there are many women finally coming forward about their disturbing experiences with the famed photographer. The ladies at Jezebel broke the story and are “listening” – that is, if you had, or know of someone who had, sexually harassing contact with Mr. Richardson, they are taking submissions. You can read more about it on Jezebel:

Meet Terry Richardson, The World’s Most F—ked Up Fashion Photographer

Exclusive: More Models Come Forward With Allegations Against Fashion Photographer

I was never really a fan of Terry Richardson because his perverted-ness came through in his photos – now that I know how he actually treats women on set, I have utterly no respect for the man.  It’s a little pathetic who people put on pedestals because they are “cool” without actually looking at their character.  For me, Richardson is up there with American Apparel’s Dov Charney.  I wonder if this will have any effect on his career…let’s hope it does.

JJ con Bufanda by Sahara Marina Borja

Where did you take the photo?

Prospect Heights, BK. Some Sunday in February (they were all grey).

What were you thinking before you took the photo?

That I do not want to imply ‘noose’ with the scarf, that this is going to look like a set-up, and that JJ is continuously generous with his face. with me. I suppose that is just an extension of him, so it makes sense.

What were you thinking after you took the photo?

He blinked.  And so did the camera. And then I thought the photo would be a wash because lord knows the countless photos we’ve seen of people with half-opened or half-closed or totally closed eyes that look less like ‘a moment’ than like crap.

What’s interesting to you about the photo?

This was not a wasted frame.  His punim.  That he didn’t know his scarf was in the bushes.  That I have only started shooting him, in the 10 years I’ve known him.

What camera did you use?

Mamiya 645. CLAAAAAAANG! (that’s the shutter).

Saharamarinaborja.blogspot.com

MISS TV: MISS Does MIami

Text: Kat Popiel

Miami is one of those cities that conjures up a distinct visual palette of pink flamingoes, almost naked sun kissed bodies and kaleidoscopic cocktail mixtures.  Yet just like any girl on the top cheerleading squad who gets good grades and dates the Ken look-alike, there is mad criticism.  With the unfortunate displeasure of being defined by the wacky and sometimes tacky world of South Beach Miami, the city sports Spring Break fiascos, countless conferences full of sometimes below average executives and has amassed a colorful collection of party hungry animals.

With big winners such as Art Basel and Winter Music Conference appearing against a backdrop of swaying palm trees and sandy beaches, always brimming with a mix of Euros and out of town hipsters, you know it’s going to blow your mind, tickle your senses and have you shaking your booty. Up on the horizon is Winter Music Conference, another Miami love affair sure to boast a similar onset of debauchery and air horns.  Descending upon every available cornerstone of music equipment are 1,910 artists and DJs with over 500 events to choose from in only just 5 days.  Yet in the case of the most recent Art Basel in December; whilst the events schedule is more overwhelming than a sample sale at Barneys, fusing a mix of traditional fairs with underground satellite gallery launches, most of this might appear on the beach but the concentration of activity is over the bridge in the Design District.  Sculptures appear on unexpected corners; there are film screenings, exhibits in store locations, pop up boutiques, concerts on the rooftops of bars and secret eating clubs.  It brags an attendance rate of 40,000 people over a three day period, injecting glamour, the arrival of intellectuals from a spectrum of perspectives, show-off fashionistas, curious tourists and yes, even hardcore business dealers there with ‘Ka-Ching’ ringing in their ears – all in the name of art. Alongside this blanket of conductivity are international showrooms for design, luxury store outposts for brands such as Christian Lamboutin and Marni and specialty spaces by local brands such as Friends With You and the OHWOW Gallery.

Apart from these noisy festivals and sparkly pods of style, at the underbelly of Miami is a thriving creative community who don’t just bask in the sun, challenging the assumption that Miami is just about The Strip.  It seems that whilst Miami might appear to be an oasis of social schizophrenia at times, all that glitters can be gold, and past the immediate reflection is a place full of hidden treasures.  Here we talk to Juan Herrera, manager of the newly re-opened Cinema Nightclub, who talks about his promotional efforts to counteract stereotypes of what Miami is really like; New York music producer Michna, who spent his college years at University of Miami, explains how Miami has a unifying spirit amidst its creative folk and London bred Blue Logan provides his thoughts on his first time journey to the world of South Beach.

"Colored Fungus, Orchids, Bamboo, and Rocks" (1604). This is my favorite Ma Shouzhen painting. The splashes of blue give these plants a little character.

Chinese culture is the bomb dot com. Everything about it intrigues me. The Chinese are family-oriented and place a lot of emphasis on nature and wellness. Much of the art from this corner of the globe reflects such values. The creations from Ma Shouzhen are no different. Don’t let the dainty photos fool you though. Ma had a life that was fit for a segment on “The Secret Life of Women.”

"Narcissus." Ma stuck to her Chinese roots and often painted items from nature.

Ma Shouzhen was born in Jinling, China in 1548. No, her birth name wasn’t Ma. Her legal name was Xianglan, but she also went by Xuan’er and Yuejiao. Growing up in pre-modern China was difficult for Ma. The iron fist of the Ming Dynasty was banging hard upon China. The art scene was male dominated and ladies got no respect. Some women took matters into their own hands and made a way out of no way. Since art by women wasn’t respected during the duration of Ma’s life, they got exposure by not disclosing their gender or by working as courtesans who served the male artists of the time. Ma chose the latter.

"Orchid and Rock" (1572). The simplicity and monochromatic color theme are characteristics of Ma's signature style. This painting also features Ma's favorite thing to paint, an orchid.

Ma was considered a romantic figure who offered her poetry and painting to her clients in addition to a happy ending. Although her line of work was taboo, she stayed true to Chinese culture by dedicating her talent to depicting scenes from nature. Her favorite things to paint were orchids. Ma’s style consisted of painting in delicate ink monochrome. Orchids were extremely popular with courtesan painters because they were fragrant plants that blossomed in seclusion. The courtesans could identify.

"Landscapes and Flowers." In this painting Ma chose not to feature the orchid, instead she focuses on bamboo and the actual landscape.

Although Ma didn’t get the respect that was owed to her, she made amazing art. She didn’t let her lower class status or the side eyes of society keep her in the shadows. Her dirt was done in the dark, but her art shined light on her inner peace, confidence, and beauty. To Ma Shouzhen I bow in respect. She gave society the middle finger and made things happen. No matter what.

"Orchids, Bamboo, Lingzhi, and Rocks." I like the horizontal direction of this trilogy. I could definitely see these framed on my wall!

For today’s Women Making History feature we honor Dina Selkoe—one half of the husband and wife team that runs Karmaloop.com – the top online retailer of name brand and underground streetwear.

Of Russian nationality, Dina was born in Baku, Azerbaijan, a small country north of Iran once part of the Soviet Union. At the age of 4, Dina’s family emigrated to the United States where she was raised in Brookline, MA.

After completing high school in Brookline, where she first met Greg, her future husband and Karmaloop founder, during their freshman year, Dina received her B.A. from Boston University, J.D. from Harvard Law School and a Masters in Law and Diplomacy from the Fletcher School at Tufts University. Dina and Greg began dating seriously after college and married in 2002.

If this isn’t a modern-day fairy tale, I don’t know what is! Read on…

Dina & Greg of Karmaloop.com

Greg Selkoe began Karmaloop in 2000 while the two shared the 3rd floor of his parents’ house in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. In law school, and during her early career as a lawyer, Dina was a major supporter of Karmaloop and assisted as much as she could with its growth – even taking mail to the post office on her way to class.

Soon after Karmaloop’s success, Dina Selkoe left her job at a law firm to begin working exclusively as the head of Karmaloop’s women’s department, quickly growing the department by 250% during her tenure. Dina gained expert knowledge at predicting trends in fashion and determining consumer buying patterns.

Dina, in a great mini, with Greg & friends...

In the past two years, Karmaloop has grown from an online retailer to a significant voice on streetwear trends with the launch of its blogs and KarmaloopTV. To continue the company’s growth, Dina is now the Creative Director of the company – partially overseeing the women’s buying department, sending a weekly email newsletter to Karmaloop’s growing roster of female customers, designing and overseeing the new women’s blog, conceptualizing and overseeing the women’s Look Books and other editorial photo shoots, and working with the lead designer to develop the look of Karmaloop’s new VIP program. However, Dina’s most significant long term project at the company is a new KarmaloopTV show called “Globaloop,” an international affairs and history program designed to educate young people and increase political and social awareness.

Same Sex Marriage, Parts 1 of 3:   Same Sex Marriage

More on Dina below:

Women Making History: Dina Selkoe of Karmaloop

A Q&A session with Dina…

M.I.S.S.: What woman, besides your mom or grandmother, do you find inspirational?

Women in public policy/human rights – Shirin Ebadi, Aung San Suu Kyi, Madeline Albright, Hillary Clinton, Condi Rice (even though I don’t dig her politics- especially her affinity for Baby Bush Duvalier), and the three current/former female supreme court justices- Sandra Day O’Connor, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor.

Women Making History: Dina Selkoe of Karmaloop

M.I.S.S.: You were originally a lawyer and now you are the Creative Director of one of the largest online stores. How did you make the transition?

I actually transitioned from lawyer to the women’s buyer (versus Creative Director) – I didn’t really have a plan and overall it was a good transition. I moved from doing boring work in a dull and stifling environment to doing something I loved in a super fun and stimulating environment with lots of people I liked around me all the time. Having an attorney’s anal attention to detail and organization definitely helped. I learned on the job, but, luckily, it all clicked together nicely.

Women Making History: Dina Selkoe of Karmaloop

M.I.S.S.: Karmaloop has many facets from retail to Karamloop TV. What’s your favorite Karmaloop project that you’ve worked on?

I love working on Lookbooks and my favorite recent lookbook is our tribute to Grace Jones … fun with mirrors! But my favoritest project these days is Globaloop, which is our newest show on KarmaloopTV. Globaloop is a political and current events program whose aim is to provide our audience with interesting information and stories about important global and domestic issues in an entertaining and concise way. I write and edit (actually, stand over the real editor’s shoulder) the pieces and host some of them. Globaloop is an amazing opportunity for me to get extra educated on a variety of topics while also hopefully helping others get a little info too. Recent pieces include a 3 part series on Same-Sex Marriage, US involvement in Afghanistan beginning in 1979, Burma and Shepard Fairey: Social Activism Through Art. Topics in the works include The Animal Rescue League, Philanthropist Bobby Sager, UNICEF, Darfur/Sudan and Iran. Globaloop also has a weekly news rundown hosted by my buddies Panda and Jose and a Pet of the Week adoption clip.

From the Karmaloop’s Global Journal: Shepard Fairey: Social Activism Through Art, part 1:

Women Making History: Dina Selkoe of Karmaloop

M.I.S.S.: Karmaloop has worked on interesting collaborations in the past including Puma. Who do you want to work with in the future?

Yes, love! We’ve had some great collabs with brands including Crooks and Castles, Hellz & Roxy Cottontail, Married to the Mob, BLVCK SCVLE, and currently have projects in the works with Han Cholo, Joyrich, Crooks and Castles and Android Homme. We are starting to do more collabs with artists and other creatives (versus strictly brands) – a bunch of the Karmaloop gang is going on a trip to Tokyo this April (reminds me, I need to book hotel) and we would love to do something with photographer Yasumasa Yonehara.

Women Making History: Dina Selkoe of Karmaloop

M.I.S.S.: How do you go about finding new brands to feature on Karmaloop?

I’m not really involved in actively seeking out new brands for the site now that I am no longer the women’s buyer, however, I always keep an eye out for cool brands and people/brands still send me stuff that I pass along to our women’s buyer, Jasmine.

Women Making History: Dina Selkoe of Karmaloop

M.I.S.S.: What part of being the Creative Director of Karmaloop is the most challenging and do you dislike the most?

Having so many diverse projects (from site enhancements and planning trips to document review and editorial stuff to Globaloop) makes juggling, timing and prioritizing quite tricky!! I honestly don’t dislike anything about my job –maybe feeling overwhelmed at times, but that’s to be expected – and I’m trying to get into meditation.

M.I.S.S.: Any advice for ladies who are just starting out in a career path similar to yours?

Try to get into an organization that you love or you’re whose general product/process you’re interested in and work your tail off – hard work and commitment pay off – they get you noticed and help your boss or colleagues know that they can give you more responsibility and more sophisticated projects and that they can rely on you. Once you have an organization in mind, don’t be afraid to reach out to people there even if you don’t know them – I get tons of emails and Facebook messages looking for jobs or internships and I always pass them on to the appropriate department here (unless I hire myself ).

Thanks, Dina!

• Check out the site’s lookbook for 2010:

http://www.karmaloop.com/lookbook/10/grace/lookbook.asp

• Sign up for the Karmaloop Ladie’s Email:

http://www.karmaloop.com/LADIESEMAIL.ASPX

• Stay up on Karmaloop via the links below!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/karmalooprepcode
Twitter: http://twitter.com/KARMALOOP
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/MYKARMALOOPBOSTON
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/25423499@N04/

The Ladies of Mex and the City: (L-R) Ruby, Marina & Iris!

Mex and the City is a cultural website and blog created to promote the free thinking, enterprising, and artistic efforts of young creatives in New York City. The site reflects a community of tastemakers, trendsetters, and culture mavens who have access and connections to the city’s key movers and shakers, fashion designers, gallerists, boutique shops owners, restauranteurs, hoteliers, media executives, and philanthropists.

The collaborative project was created by a group of friends—Iris Avelar, Marina Garcia-Vasquez & Ruby Vizcarra—from diverse backgrounds in fashion, editorial, public relations and hospitality passionate about art, travel, culture, and nightlife. M&TC speaks about the increasing Mexican culture in the fast-paced New York landscape in a fun and personal tone.

Their motto:

Working to develop the best sense of self.

Working to be successful at what we do.

Working hard to play hard.

Mex and the City and photographer Carlos Alvarez Montero recently  joined forces to present Racial Profiling, a portrait series highlighting prominent and influential Mexicans in New York City. The title speaks to the heady issue of the mixed race and the multicultural experience that makes up a contemporary Mexican identity.

Mex and the City and photographer Carlos Alvarez Montero present Racial Profiling. The profiles are up now at www.mexnthecity.com

The ladies collectively nominated an inaugural group of profiles based on their charisma as leaders in their field and for their experience and contributions to a greater New York. The group ranges from hotelier, jewelry designer, producer, web designer, restaurant owner, interior designer, writer/editor, artist, photographer, gallery owner, etc, etc.

The unique and inspiring project is up now on the Mex and the City site.

Below, the ladies get intimate with us via the handwritten surveys below!

Women Making History: Marina

Women Making History: Iris

Women Making History: Ruby

Q&A time with the ladies of Mex and the City!

M.I.S.S.: What woman, besides your mom or grandmother, do you find inspirational?

MARINA: Joan Didion, the great American journalist and novelist she was the first woman journalist to be accepted by the old-boys club of world politicians and presidents. She used her demure looks to get her in. And the indigenous Guatemalan revolutionary, Rigoberta Menchu.

IRIS: Growing up I looked up to “La Doña” Maria Felix an icon of the Mexican Golden era of Cinema in the 40’s. She was the example of a strong independent woman of her time, you can say she is to Mexico what Bette Davis is to the US. My ultimate is Coco Chanel she was a self-made woman who built her name with dignity and elegance.

RUBY: Frida Kahlo – for her passion, her fight, her amazing style, and her endless love for Diego.

M.I.S.S.: You each have different professions from being a restaurateur, writer/editor and fashion producer. How did you meet?

MARINA: Iris and I met in San Francisco when we were both working for Planet magazine, she was in business development and I was an editor. Ruby and I met through friends one summer in Barcelona. Ruby was living and studying there for school. When I moved to New York, Iris and I became roommates. Ruby and I reconnected when she moved from Barcelona to NYC. We then became a rat pack so to speak. We admire each other and we make each other laugh.

The ladies in Williamsburg, in front of wheatpasted TACOS posters Marina designed—inspired by Focus Gatorade ads—to mark Iris's restaurant, La Superior's first anniversary.

M.I.S.S.: What inspired Mex And the City?

MARINA: Mex and the City was inspired by everyday run-ins with people who seemed to ask 100 and one questions about Mexican culture and ethnicity. I found that I kept getting the same questions and repeating the same answers. Being Mexican in New York is definitely not the same as being Mexican in California. I decided that a blog would be the best way to disseminate information and I knew that I didn’t want to do it alone so I asked the girls if they would join me. I figured since we each came from various industries we could really touch on those cornerstones. The blog initially was to show how much access the three of us had in our downtown universe. If we three Mexican girls could make it in NYC, others could as well. We wanted to show how the world could open up for you with determination and strong work ethic. We really believe being Mexican has everything to do with it, using what our mama’s showed us! You know good solid foundations.

M.I.S.S.: What is your goal for Mex And the City? Do you have any projects lined up?

Our goal with Mex and the City is to create a community. We love that the content resonates with people locally, nationally, and internationally. We would like to build out that community to unexpected cities that are burgeoning with Mexican communities. And yes we have plenty of collaborations in mind and in planning. We are definitely looking forward to the World Cup festivities.

Right: Marina & Ruby birthday at La Superior (owned by Iris), Left: Iris as featured on jauntsetter.com.

M.I.S.S.: What’s your favorite project that you’ve worked on?

Working with the photographer Carlos Alvarez Montero on our “Racial Profiling” series has been an incredible honor. Carlos is an exceptional human being with great academic and emotional intelligence. We found that our goals with the editorial package were definitely in sync. We wanted to show the world how rich our Mexican experience is, that being Mexican comes in a variety of colors and experiences. It was our goal to show Mexican creatives in beautiful light and to promote their endeavors with the rest of the world.

M.I.S.S.: Who do you want to work with in the future?

We always want to work with creative and brilliant young professionals. We want to work with brands that get what we are doing, TOMS shoes, Converse, Jumex, Novamex, Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Brand, Vice, and fashion collabs, from our own t-shirt’s to working with photographers/editorials, etc. on something fashion!

La Superior, co-owned by Iris in Williamsburg, has been featured in New York Times, New York Magazine, Time Out NY and Zagat...just to name a few!

Ruby onsite at her job with Gilt Groupe!

Belongings is a project consisting of portraits of Marina's things and poems she's written. Above: Green Prada Heels.

M.I.S.S.: Any advice for ladies who are just starting out in a career path similar to yours?

MARINA: Follow your passions. The three of us are doing what we love best, Iris with hospitality, Ruby with fashion, and me in editorial. The blog is a lot of work but it is extremely rewarding. Life is hectic and challenging anyway so you better enjoy how you spend your time and who you spend your time with.

IRIS: Find creativeness in everything you do and it will keep you motivated. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, it’s ok to start doing odd jobs here or there as long as you can take all those experiences and skills and apply them to your dream job!

RUBY: Dream big, go big and never give up. It will happen.

Thanks so much ladies!

For more info on the ladies and their amazing projects, visit the links below:

Email: mexnthecity@gmail.com
Visit: www.mexnthecity.com
Follow: mexandthecity.tumblr.com

Iris’s restaurant: lasuperiornyc.com
Marina’s website: mg-v.com

Note: The Mex and the City logo was designed by Tanya Avelar—Iris’s sister!

Saelee Oh is an LA-based artist who creates new worlds with her drawings, paintings and cut paper and although her work is delicate with themes of nature and animal symbolism, her message of female empowerment definitely shines through.

The 2003 Art Center College of Design graduate, who has given presentations at prestigious universities like Harvard, has shown her work in galleries and museums across the world. Her most recent solo exhibition, titled Infinite Roots, showed at the Jonathan LeVine Gallery and introduced us to new works on paper depicting a peaceful and organic world, imaginative and full of life, like the artist herself.

Saelee and Infinite Path from Infinite Roots at the Jonathan LeVine Gallery.

Saelee on Infinite Roots:

“The roots of a plant are what secure it to an interconnected underground where all life is nourished, as the buds and leaves bloom above. The show title, Infinite Roots, alludes to the deep reaches of our intrinsic inner desires. The tone of the work in this series is bittersweet with hints of nostalgia. The pieces appear delicate and frail but the stories they tell are about timeless strength.”

Saelee Oh's Infinite Roots and (above) a detailed look at one of her hand-cut pieces.

Installation view from Infinite Roots at Jonathan LeVine and (above) Saelee with friends at the opening.

Women Making History: Saelee Oh

M.I.S.S.: What woman, besides your mom or grandmother, do you find inspirational?

Wow. There are too many, but I will just mention my best pal, Lana Kim
because she is sitting right next to me and she is a beautiful person inside
and out. All girls need good girl friends and Lana couldn’t be any better.
She’s there for the good times and the bad times and her genuinely pure
heart, enthusiasm for life and sense of humor is always inspirational.

M.I.S.S.: How did you get your start painting? Were you always artistic?

I’ve always liked drawing and making things with my hands. We had a family
friend and art teacher named Mrs. Simmons who taught us a lot of things in
her garage studio and encouraged us to be creative, to do whatever we wanted
to do and to find our individuality.

M.I.S.S.: What’s a favorite piece of art that you’ve created?

I can’t say that I really have one favorite… I like to look forward and
think more about what I want to try next and what I haven’t done yet rather
than dwell on the past.

Submersion from Infinite Roots and the nature-loving artist on a horse in Hawaii...

M.I.S.S.: Your subject matter often involves nature and animals. What is it about nature and animals that intrigues you?

They’re magical and powerful. Nature is the ultimate force. Moby Dick still
lives and is immortal forever. Weather can never be tamed and we bow our
heads down to her like a passing Queen. The language of animals is based on
intuition.

M.I.S.S.: Your work has a feminine aesthetic. Is that a conscious choice? Do you consider yourself a feminist artist?

I think it’s natural because it’s a big part of my self identity. I grew up
with 3 sisters and I like the company of females. I also don’t go out of my
way to try and conceal my femininity or to make it more androgynous in order
to appeal to a different audience. (I’ve heard of some other artists trying
to do this.) That effort seems insincere to me. If feminism means trying to
be the best possible woman that you can be and to love and support other
women while doing so, then yes. I want to be empowered and to encourage
others to be too. I want to be allowed to do anything that a man is allowed
to do but do it in my own way.

M.I.S.S.: You’ve lent your art to different kinds of products from wall decals, t-shirt graphics and iPhone cases. How does it feel to see your work on different canvases? Is designing artwork for product a different process for you than painting?

The work that I do for products is split between being designed with the product in mind and having created the artwork without the product in mind and then later it’s licensed and reformatted onto a different output. I enjoy doing these types of projects because in the end in creates a different place in the world for art outside of the gallery setting.

Saelee Oh and Upper Playground teamed up to bring you her art on tees for a girl or a boy!

M.I.S.S.: Who do you want to work with? Are there other kinds of products that you would like to see your work a part of?

I would love to work with other creatives who are talented and passionate about what they do in other industries such as fashion, film, music, interior design, writing, architecture, baking, landscaping (I can go on and on…) I’m a Curious George so I would love to learn as I watch and I think interesting work can come from unexpected match ups. It’s easy to get absorbed into the world that your work is normally expected in, but the real surprises and new ways of solving problems or being creative come from meeting people who think differently.

Built By Wendy, Todd Oldham, Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, Amy Sedaris, David Sedaris, Aimee Bender, Wong Kar Wai, Design Within Reach, Target, Wes Anderson, Thai fruit carvers, PJ Harvey, Neko Case…topiary garden landscapers call me!

M.I.S.S.: What part of painting is the most challenging and do you dislike the most?

There’s always that moment in the middle between getting inspired by what’s in your head and heart and trying to finish a piece where I just question everything. I become very existential and self loathing. The slower the paint takes to dry and the later it is at night, the more mentally exhausting it is… That always passes though and waking up after resting your eyes is a miracle. It works every time. Also, I hate cleaning my brushes and getting fresh water to clean them. I don’t know why.

Saelee's illustration for Giant Robot Issue 55

M.I.S.S.: Any advice for ladies who are just starting out in a career path as an
artist?

Putting your work out there for criticism can be intimidating, but have confidence in yourself to keep moving forward. Art and beauty are subjective. Don’t worry about trends. Don’t worry about success. Don’t google your own name. Always try to push the limits of what you think you can make. Dream big. Get a good chair with a high back that supports your neck, stretch often and have good posture. Look for inspiration outside of the art world. Don’t be late and flakey. Editing out something is just as crucial as adding something. Save your image files as .tifs not .jpgs. Have an electric tea kettle by you to have hot water in the wintertime because sitting still for long hours will make your fingers and toes numb even if it’s indoors in southern California. Think about the big picture, clear your mind, in order to be receptive to ideas and be humble and grateful.

WOW! Such great advice! Thanks Saelee!

The artist has a list of upcoming shows up on her site but M.I.S.S. highly recommends you not miss the Ed Emberley show curated by Caleb Neelon at Scion LA on July 17th 2010. Artists Seonna Hong, Matt Leines, Raul Gonzalez, Christpher Kline, Saelee Oh and the great Ed Emberley, himself, will make giant murals inspired by Ed’s books on how to draw to be donated to children’s hospitals. More info to come!

For more from the whimsical artist visit: saeleeoh.com/

E.P.I.C Store Opening Party

Last Friday night, Los Angeles newest retail concept E.P.I.C. (Echo Park Independent Co-op) exclusively opened it’s doors and hosted a truly epic grand opening party. Located right in the heart of Echo Park, E.P.I.C., the brainchild of Rhianon Jones and Tristan Scott, is an innovative retail/studio space which aims to become one of L.A.’s must stop shopping destinations for unique, fashion-forward designs. A seriously fashionable crowd turned out to celebrate in the beautiful gallery- like E.P.I.C. store space; exposed brick, vintage re-upholstered furniture, chandeliers, and of course the carefully curated merchandise. The opening night event also featured a unique “Post-it” note art show with works by some of the designers carried at the store, local actors and musicians, and well known-artists, of which 100 percent of proceeds were donated to Million Trees L.A.

Rhianon Jones and Tristen Scott’s goals are simple; to support and promote local young up-start fashion talent and artists, and to use E.P.I.C.’s retail influence to educate consumers about supporting sustainable production practices and appreciate the creativity and community of local designers and artists. With an impressive roster of 40 plus Los Angeles brands including Alexandra Cassaniti, Brian Lichtenburg, Dear Creatures, and Endovanera, I think it’s safe to say that E.P.I.C. has arrived and will quickly become a favorite of intelligent, fashionable Angelenos.

E.P.I.C. (Echo Park Independent Co-op)
1712 W. Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 483-0260

Image Layout: Katrina

Get familiar with the witty charm of Amanda Diva via DivaSpeakTV:

The spunky Diva got her start as a young actress on Nickelodeon sitcom, “My Brother and Me.” She left Orlando, FL for New York in ‘99 and fell head-over-heels in love with hip hop. She began writing spoken word poetry and in ‘02, and again in ‘05, she was chosen to appear on Russell Simmon’s Def Poetry Jam.

Amanda was then discovered by a Program Director from Sirius Satellite Radio and was quickly hired as a radio personality where she thrived from ’03-’08 with her morning show “Breakfast at Diva’s.” During that time she also obtained a Master’s in African American studies from Columbia University and served as the face of hip-hop on MTV2 interviewing artists like Jay-Z, Nas, Mariah Carey, Pharell, and actors Tom Cruise and Jamie Fox, to name a few.

Miss Diva also serves as comedy commentator and music expert on VH1 and is the writer & creator of “Diva Speak TV” a weekly humor based news/sketch comedy show featured on ThisIs50.com & “Diva Diva Ya’ll” on Karmalooptv.com.

Amanda is also an accomplished visual artist who shows in exhibits, does live painting events, and has a hand-painted bag line, Spectrum, available on Karmaloop.com and AmandaDiva.com.

The recording artist’s latest release, a Free Ep titled, “Spandex, Rhymes & Soul” combines hip-hop, soul, alternative, and a touch of electronica with lyrics on life and love that speak universally.

Yep, she’s what every female artist should be: real!

Amanda was recently featured on Q-tip’s “ManWoman Boogie” on his album “The Renaissance,” she also replaced Natalie Stewart in the Grammy award winning R&B group, Floetry in ‘07, and has worked with notable artisans Questlove, James Poyser, Green Lantern, Estelle, The Cool Kids, and more.

The Diva gives us the run down on who she really is:

Once upon a time I was radio host, then a tv host, a poet, a visual artist, an actress, a journalist, a singer, an emcee, and a web show producer. Now however, I’m just Amanda Diva. All of those things still remain, but as opposed to being different streams going in the direction of trying to “make it” they have come together to form one strong force carving its own known niche. The goal was once to “make it”. Now, it’s just to keep on doing it. Doing this. Making quality work to fill people up and cure their hunger pangs for the good shit. I’ve worked with the greats. I’ve been on the computer screen, the small screen, and the big screen. I’ve interviewed my heroes. I’ve seen a number of my dreams come true. However, I now work to help make others’ come true and apply all that I’ve learned so far on this journey.

And sometimes, she just likes to rock neon…

M.I.S.S.: What woman, besides your mom or grandmother, do you find inspirational?

Maya Angelou

M.I.S.S.: You’ve had an interesting career that has spanned many areas. How did you get your start?

I got my start dancing in Disney World’s “Sparkling Christmas Spectacular” when I was 8 yrs old.

M.I.S.S.: How did you transition from television to radio, from writing and poetry to music and then art?

It was totally random. I met the Program Director at Sirius Satellite Radio one night at a poetry show and he told me I’d be good on radio. I came in that week and the rest is history. I’d been doing art since high school but Swizz Beatz was the one who really pushed me to put my art out there in a major way when he saw me doodling once at an event.

M.I.S.S.: Of all the facets of your career, what do you find the most fulfilling?

Making music. By far. I love it so much. I feel so honored to be able to do so.

M.I.S.S.: What’s your favorite project that you’ve worked on?

I really loved doing my DivaSpeak TV web series. It was so fun just being carefree and sharing laughs with my directors Lyndon McCray and Quincy Ledbetter over the 2 1/2 years we’ve been doing it.

Def poet, Amanda Diva, is Hot Shit!

M.I.S.S.: From The Roots to Q-Tip, you’ve worked with some hip hop heavy weights. Who else do you want to work with?

I want to work with Andre 3000 so bad. Man, oh man. Also Maxwell, MGMT, Elton John, jazz singer, Gregory Porter, and Kanye West.

Below, “Neon” off of Spandex Rhymes and Soul at The Roots Jam at Highline Ballroom, NYC.

M.I.S.S.: In a male dominated field, you manage to rep for the ladies and keep it positive. You aren’t afraid to be sexy but you do it in a way that’s not demeaning or objectifying. How do you find that balance? How do you stay positive when so much of the music industry depicts women in such negative ways?

LOL. I’m not sure how I manage to do that other than I just stay true to self ya kno? I mean, I’m not a pretender so when you see me in chucks or stilettos you’re seeing me for real. I think honesty and being genuine is what makes someone confident and in turn sexy w/out losing integrity or chill without giving up class. I stay positive because I truly believe I can make a difference by example. Each one teach one.

M.I.S.S.: At M.I.S.S., we’re big fans of Diva Speak TV – what was the inspiration for the show?

When I was fired from Sirius Satellite radio folks started hitting me on myspace saying they missed my opinions and thoughts on current events so I decided to create a platform where I could give them that.

Diva works of art...such a vivrant thing!

M.I.S.S.: Your newest project is painting and customizing bags. Have you always had an interest in art and fashion? Do you see yourself expanding to include a full apparel and accessories line?

Yes I’ve always been an artist, but the bags were my mom’s idea, lol. I would love to one day have an entire line. My dream however is to have a home line with bedding, bathroom essentials etc, in Target.

M.I.S.S.: What part of writing/making music/painting is the most challenging and do you dislike the most?

writing-figuring out the concept

making music-mixing

painting-outlining (uggh i hate it!)

Amanda Diva gets her Bob Ross on...

M.I.S.S.: Any advice for ladies who are just starting out in a career path similar to yours?

Stick to your guns…especially when it feels like everyone else’s are aimed at you.

Amandadiva.com & DivaWorksofArt.com