November’s Artist Spotlight: Frankd Robinson

12188447_10208513796750985_1605742381_nI came across this amazing artist on Facebook and was immediately drawn to his bold and unique work. I loved how he reconstituted every day material to make his art pop and the “in your face” message behind the pieces. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Robinson’s art tells a story with a black narrative that is stunning and moving. He wants to bring his audience on a journey that will have them opening their eyes and minds to a world they have never seen before.

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1. How did you get started in your craft?

As a kid, I always would draw and color, it’s just something that came naturally.

2. What is something that inspires you to stay motivated?

Life inspires me. Living is the ultimate inspiration.

3. Where do you see yourself and your craft 5 years from now?

Hopefully alive and creating.

4. What sets you apart in your craft from others?

My work speaks for itself…it doesn’t look, feel, or have the same tone as most works. I feel like it’s coming from a different time & space…it’s NewHope4NoHope!!!12204116_10208513731109344_974758965_o12207826_10208513768710284_1542729770_n

5. What do you love the most about your craft?

I love doing it! It has become my hope, my strength, my physician that heals me…my work is what heals me!!! There is so much passion & emotions in the work that keeps me in my right mind!

6. What is the main thing you want people to learn or to get from your craft?

I’m telling stories of black folks of this day & time. I’m speaking for the voiceless. My work is about healing…”LoveNeverFAILS”, “TheYearOfHEALING”, “IwishWeLivedInAbetterWorLd”, “Don’tPunishMeWithBrutaLity”, “Driven2tears”, “LoveCannotFAIL”, “#disposabLeArt”, “#theBeautiFuLstruggLe,” “BeYondThisPLaceOfWrathe&tears”, “LoomButTheHorrorsOfTheShade”, and “YetTheMenaceOfTheYesrsFinds&shaLLfindMeUNafraid”

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7. Are there any upcoming projects that you want to share?

This has been a big year for me. “MyLifeHasVALUE&weWearTheMask” was at Prairie View A&M. It then went to Jackson State University and now, it’s showing at Tougaloo College. “TheYearOfHEALING” is at the Memphis Theological Seminary and “NewHopeNoHope” was at the Midtown Crossing Grill. I have a show at DeSaVu restaurant and I also have works displayed at the Office at Uptown in Downtown Memphis and at the Caritas village in Bing Hampton.

8. Where can people go to check out more of your work?

Facebook: Frankd.Robinson. You can check out the work and if interested on purchasing, just inbox.

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Artist Spotlight: Kiwi The Beauty

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I am a firm believer in constantly supporting the creatives in this field. We need to uplift one another so that we can truly make a mark in this world. This month’s “Artist Spotlight” is focused on the world of blogging. Kiwi is the mastermind behind the blog, http://www.kiwithebeauty.com. Blogging since 2006, Kiwi has finally settled into her own lane of bringing beauty and lifestyle together in a fabulous way. Featured in several magazines, gracing billboards, and becoming the spokesperson for a variety of brands, including Travel Divas and Miss Jessie’s, Kiwi the Beauty is ready to take the blogging world by storm.

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1. How did you get started in your craft?
Blogging I have been doing since 2006. I didn’t consider it a craft in the beginning, it was a hobby. I had no idea blogging would be something that could grow to this magnitude but I am happy it has developed into my craft.
2. What is something that inspires you to stay motivated?
Other bloggers who are doing really big things. Who are working with big brands, getting almost celebrity like endorsements and even being featured on commercials. That motivates me…that bloggers can go really far in this industry!
3. Where do you see yourself and your craft 5 years from now?
Five years from now I would love to see my brand grow and it evolve into a 6-figure business. I want my blog and brand to be well-known and provide me opportunities far beyond my own personal goals and dreams.
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4. What sets you apart in your craft from others?
Just being myself! I have my own personality and drive. There are millions of blogs with a lot of niches…but I just set my own standards. Although I am inspired by some and even learn from other blogs, I still just do my own things to make “Kiwi the Beauty”…my voice and in alignment with me.
5. What do you love the most about your craft?
The opportunities that have came with it. I get invited to a lot of fun events and I have some great brand ambassadorships because of it and I am so happy all of it is in alignment for what I got my degree in which is Mass Media Communications.
 
6. What is the main thing you want people to learn or to get from your craft?
That blogging is a business and it is not just a trend or new thing. While it is fun and glamorous sometimes, it is still WORK! I feel like I do 5 different jobs being a blogger…its not just taking pictures and putting them in a post. The blogging industry is growing and we are also slowly but surely getting all the recognition we deserve!
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Make sure you check out the blog at http://www.kiwithebeauty.com. You can also follow Kiwi on Twitter, Facebook. and Instagram under the handle Kiwithebeauty. Remember, true success comes with the ability to support others. Whether it is a like or a follow or a simple share, it all helps! 🙂