Philece Roberts and her Creative Truth

..once again, I'm calling out to everyone that resides in ATLANTA or plans to visit this weekend! This isn't her official feature, but, she's one of our AUTHENTIC artists and she'll be displaying some artwork at City of Ink February 27th...her name is Philece Roberts...click her name to visit her website or myspaceI've had the pleasure in having many conversations with her :) and besides her genuine friendly approach, she's a dope artist!! Check her out and many more at City of Ink!!

Also, she's the founder of CREATIVE TRUTH!











Here's a peek of two of my favorites..

AUTHENTICITY isn't hard ;)

e a s e!

Word of Wisdom: Oprah Winfrey

You can have it all. You just can't have it all at one time. - Oprah Winfrey

For many here at AUTHENTIC, the newness of 2009 is fading and the crunch of midterms, work, and home are beginning to seem overwhelming…or at least annoying and cringe-worthy. Put on your Oprah Thinking Cap aka your Oprah “Get Money” Hat and be your most AUTHENTIC self. Know that your work, frustration, sleep depravation, creative chills, arguments, stank faces, and bitchassedness are all worth the “ALL” of which Ms. Winfrey speaks.

Get that Hump out of ya’ back…’cause Oprah said so!

Get AUTHENTIC.

P.S. Please excuse the mad tardiness of WoW this week. Folks be testing me and whatnot. Seriously, I just took three exams. *stank face*

AUTHENTIC CHICK OF THE MONTH: Ms. Wise

Tell us who you are ... using your favorite lyrics from your favorite album/poem. Feel free to explain if necessary.

“These streets hold my deepest days
This hood taught me golden ways
Made me, truly this is what made me
Break me, not a thing's gonna break me

Ohh, I'm that history I'm that block
I'm that lifestyle I'm that spot
I'm that kid by the number spot
That's my past that made me hot….”

Nas. ft Chrisette Michelle (Can’t Forget About You)

Not necessarily my fav song…but on my top list indeed.

Who have been your top five influences musically/poetically?

In order:

1. Prince Rogers Nelson aka Prince aka Mr. Purple Rain

This man is a musical genius. And did I mention he’s beautiful?? A beautiful musical genius. He’s always made the art….the art never made him. And his fans appreciate that…..The millions of fans who will sell out a concert if he had one 2day, over 2 decades since he first started in the game.

2. Shyster aka Ms. Betty’s Son

Philadelphia poet who has remained true 2 his mission….2 save the children and the streets.

3. Taalam Acey

No need 4 an intro. This poet is just vicious….lyrically blessed….and dedicated 2 his craft. He gives me hope and encouragement 2 keep doing what I do.

4. Lauryn “L Boogie” Hill

Maaaaan “talented” doesn’t describe this woman!! She’s simply illl….dope…gifted!! I can relate 2 the deep-voiced tomboyish young lady from The Score as well as the flourishing woman in The Miseducation. And Un-plugged was just beautiful!! Don’t sleep on it! Like the rest of the music world, I wish she would make her way back in2 the game…. We need you Ms. Hill.

5. The Notorious B.I.G.

Wow…I can only pick 5, huh? Ha…Well Biggie has 2 be on the top 5.…definitely. Who in the game has yet to do it better?? Ok, some may say Jay (who would’ve been my #6) but he’s yet 2 possess that raw feel that Big bought to the game….

Have the people that you worked with influenced you or your art in anyway.

If so, who and how?

There has been a select few that have influenced (and supported) me and I never hesitate 2 shout ‘em out. But in particular, I have 2 big up my main producer, E-The Poet Emcee from Baltimore, MD. He’s not only a man of talent, but a man about his business. He’s taught me that it’s ok 2 mix business with your art…..as long as you stay true 2 craft….and most importantly, yourself. Besides, if it’s what’s you’re good at, why not succeed off of it??

Besides other poets, what has helped you expand your art over your career span?

My words are healing somebody….I know it. I’ve been told. I can see it in their faces….when I’m at a show….or a workshop….I’m changing lives. We (The spoken word artists) are changing lives. God gave us this gift 4 a reason.

What's the perfect Ms.Wise poem song/poem for the club?

Haha….the club though?? Ummm….I guess “My Chucks” Definitely a head banger.

My Chucks - Ms. Wise

(UHHHH ... Ms. WISE ... DON'T BE LIKE THAT >>> JUST answer the question! Give the people what they want! lol)

The car?

“Reason” The production on this track is sick!! Shout out 2 Philly’s own Maxx Steele.

reason.mp3 - Ms. Wise

The bedroom?

lol…“Who I Am Is”

Who I Am Is - Ms. Wise

The kitchen?

“Time”

An early morning jog?

Something from the upcoming CD….I got some hip hop tracks 4 yall

Shopping?

“The Professor”

The Professor - Ms. Wise

What do you have planned for the world in 09?

Well, the 3^rd cd is scheduled to drop on March 26^th. “The Death of Roxanne” This is also my birthday!! Yessss ((snaps fingers)) lol. I plan 2 have two events on this day, including a listening party and a show/slam. Other than that, I will be holding events on a monthly or bi-monthly basis 2 keep the arts flowing throughout Philadelphia, Jersey, and surrounding areas on behalf of myself and my new crew (The R.A.B. crew…ask about us*). The fall (September) will launch my high school tour that will take place in the areas of Camden, NJ, Philadelphia, PA, Baltimore MD and Washington DC. Of course, I’ll be involved with slam. My first big move with slam this year was my recent win in the Woman of the World qualifier here in Philly. As a result, I will compete in The Woman of the World International slam in Detroit, MI from March 18-21^st. As much as I used to criticize this aspect of poetry (and sometimes still do), slam has helped me grow as an artist. 2009 is going to be MY year….just wait and see.

What's the Soundtrack for your life? Pick 7 songs/poems (NOT YOURS).

1. Taalam Acey- Love Yourself

2. Stacy Epps- Floatin

3. RES- I’ve Known the Garden

4. Prince- The Beautiful One’s

5. Janelle Monae- Sincerely, Jane

6. Shyster/ Chris Cream- Rising

7. Nas ft. Chrisette Michele- Can’t 4Get About You

Finally, tell our readers the best way to keep their hustle Real and AUTHENTIC in 09.

“Shelter in your humility like the home that you’re living in.

Let your artistry pay your soul bill in place of your Benjamins

‘Til your spirit rocks, sold-rock, unshaken by any men……”

Extra stuff:

-originally from Camden, NJ/residing in Philadelphia PA

-2008 Philadelphia Grand Slam Champ

-2008 and 2009 Philadelphia female slam champ

-placed 8^th in the nation (Woman of the World Int. Slam 2008 Detroit, MI)

Find more photos like this on AUTHENTIC

So ummm ... Just in CASE you're a stalker like US!

Find Ms. Wise on Myspace or AS ALWAYS BEING AUTHENTIC or on TWITTER or FACEBOOK!

Did I miss anything?!? -_-

OH WELL. STAY REAL. STAY AUTHENTIC.

MUAH!

To all our ATLiens! ;)

You NEED to be here this Friday!!!
check out their promo episode for their upcoming reality show


for more information visit their myspace

ease

Chasing Summer

I wanted to share the link to poet, Red Summer's latest project entitled, Chasing Summer. Its an online, mini docu-story featuring Red as she tours to promote her work of poetry. In the first installment, she travels to Memphis, Tennessee to perform at the popular, Soul Cafe. Her show can be found on Current.com or by clicking the link below.

Chasing Summer - "Easy Love, Memphis"



Peace. KrisH- Gay Girls Guide

Mic on Monday: Girl Trouble!

Good day, AUTHENTIC! I apologize for my lapse in posting last week, but Life called, and when I answered the phone she had some very good news for me. That aside, I have a confession to make:

I got girl trouble. It's serious.

Now, I know those of you who know me are trying to rationalize how I can have girl trouble; but, I promise, this time it's mad serious. Check this out.

It is the last Monday of February 2009 and I know that some of you may be asking yourself “where were the obligatory Black History Month posts?” I was having a conversation with a mix of friends this weekend and someone stated that after Obama’s election to the White House, Black History Month seems a thing of the past. The speaker stated that she felt that BHM was important and that it was instituted so that America could realize and acknowledge Black people’s contributions to our country. Since Barack Obama is now President of the United States of America, the goal of BHM has been attained & therefore the month is no longer needed. Now, I found many areas of concern with her logic, but I can’t really include the full or abridged conversation here because I’m not sure that we’ve agreed to abandon this discussion just yet.

I will, however, leave you with what I believe is her main argument:

Barack Obama’s election to the White House signifies the end of the plight of black people. The African Diaspora officially has equal footing in the world and can now enjoy all the rights and privileges of mainstream American society and the greater global community. Basically, blacks no longer need Black History Month because we’re the same as everyone else.

And here’s why I’m not sure the conversation is finished.

I asked her

“If Hillary Clinton won the Presidency, would all of women’s problems be fixed and all women’s works be recognized, creating equal footing for the female gender?”

She has yet to answer.

Was I wrong to pose such an inquiry? Is her logic incorrect? Is my unsettledness due to her being a twenty-something black college student who aligns Beyonce’s female proclamations and calls for dope boys (read Destiny Child’s “Soldier” lyrics) with Nina Simone and Lena Horne’s artistry and political involvement? Or am I really upset because her peasant blouse and skinny jeans with Reebok’s and an “I Heart Black People” hoodie were an affront to the surrounding aesthetic? Help me out, AUTHENTIC. I need answers. Those of the female persuasion.

Whatever the case, get real. Get lifted. Get AUTHENTIC. Happy Monday!

mic

AUTHENTIC WOMEN: DJ VICTORIA!!!

So ... DUH! it's THURSDAY ..... WHICH MAKES IT YOUR DAY! Yaaaaa ... we hype you! I love it! ::tingle:: It's what we live for here at AUTHENTIC!

So TODAY ... We hype one of our faves!!! AUTHENTIC'S VERY OWN HOUSE DJ ...

DJ VICTORIA
aka
Cisco Kid DJ

and what does Ms. V have to say about herself?!?

"its me, two turntables, and a mixer"

we say: "you right. keep it simple shawty."



CHECK V HERE

and on AUTHENTIC


Visit AUTHENTIC


FOR BOOKING: email ciscokiddj@gmail.com

Attention: NYC!

Whats Up Authentic - Its KrisH with a little event posting for the NYC people.
Rich Medina, one of my FAVORITE, absolute FAVORITE dj's is hosting his Jump and Funk party at SOBs this Thursday Night 2/19 at SOBs in the west village. If you don't know Rich Medina, shame on you(tisk tisk) but this man is sick on the turntables and spins some of the best afro-beat in all the land...he will have you dancing all night. Its really Authentic...I kind of injured myself in a b-ball game last night so my movement is limited but if you have the legs, the energy and 10 bucks, you certainly won't leave disappointed.

Water No Get Enemy - Fela Ransome Kuti

Wednesday's Word Of Wisdom: Sadie Delany

Life is short, and it's up to you to make it sweet. - Sadie Delany

It’s Wednesday, and you know how we do, being all AUTHENTIC and whatnot. We drop that Word of Wisdom on Wednesday (Good day, alliteration. How are you? *English geek*).

Check this out. After this weekend (Valentine’s Day! *tee hee*), this quote is very fitting.

Sarah Louise “Sadie” Delany (19 September 1889 – 25 January 1999) was an American author, educator, and civil rights pioneer. In 1923, she became the first African American woman permitted to teach domestic science in the state of New York.

In 1992, Delany and sister Bessie collaborated with Amy Hill Hearth on a book called Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years, which dealt with the trials and tribulations the sisters had faced during their century of life. The book was highly successful on the bestseller charts, and even spawned a Broadway play. In 1999 the movie Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years aired on television. It was directed by Lynne Littman with Diahann Carroll as Sadie and Ruby Dee as Bessie.

In 1994 with The Delany Sisters' Book of Everyday Wisdom was published as a follow up to Having Our Say. After Bessie's death in 1995 at age 104, Sadie wrote another book called On My Own At 107: Reflections on Life Without Bessie, dealing with the loss of her sister.

Delany and sister Bessie were included in the Guinness Book of World Records in 1993 as the world's oldest authors. (Source)

 

Get that hump out ya’ back. Get AUTHENTIC.

 

So It's a Good Thing ...

our next event is raising awareness around domestic violence. Because AUTHENTIC has held it's words concerning Chris Brown and Rihanna ...



but B. Scott has voiced our opinion so thoroughly. though ignorantly ... but sometimes ... humor is the only thing you have to bring to a subject like this one.

but what we want to know is what you think. so DO TELL.

VENUS BOYZ...the film and the voice behind it

WE'RE BACK!!
You know what happens today, right?!
It's Thursday and today is when we expose you're work|efforts|skills|ideas....

so

without any hesitation.... :)

introducing...

Dred Gerestant aka drag KING dred...and a movie Dred and other gender benders star in regarding feminine masculinity. "It is a film about gender, female masculinity, being human and having the freedom to be all of your selves."

Dred explains in this one woMAN show at WOW Cafe in NYC


and here are the videos for VENUS BOYZ...educate yourself. There is an entire world of women and men who feel as though they were born into the wrong body, or simply identify with the opposite sex. Though a sensitive issue, it's deifnitely relevant to think about...






this one features DRED




6-10 can be found here...

Get REAL. Be AUTHENTIC
e a s e :)

WORD OF WISDOM

So ... I know it's not Wednesday ... but I NEEDED a word of WISDOM ... ANYWAYS (and ya ... sometimes its hard to get to the computer to blog while in transit from Harlem to NJ ... SUE ME).

(mm. i apologize for that ... it's one of those days, ladies.)

anyways ... our WORD OF WISDOM comes from none other than?!?

JUDITH JAMISON

Judith Jamison was appointed Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in December 1989 at the request of her mentor, Alvin Ailey, who personally chose her to succeed him before his untimely death. A native of Philadelphia, she studied with Marion Cuyjet, was discovered by Agnes de Mille and made her New York debut with American Ballet Theatre in 1964. She became a member of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965 and danced with the company for 15 years to great acclaim. Recognizing her extraordinary talent, Mr. Ailey created some of his most enduring roles for her, most notably the tour de force solo, Cry.

After leaving the Company in 1980, Ms. Jamison appeared as a guest artist with ballet companies all over the world and starred in the hit Broadway musical Sophisticated Ladies. In 1988, she formed her own company, The Jamison Project; a PBS special depicting her creative process, Judith Jamison: The Dancemaker, aired nationally the same year.

I could go onnnn and onnn and onnnn... about her ... but what's important ... is what she has to say to us today ...

“Once you've danced, you always dance. You can't deny the gifts that God sends your way.”

and boyyyy, is this true. honestly chicks, today is one of those days i find myself tired ... wondering whether what i'm doing is even DOING anything ... whether i should throw it in.

But I already know that answer ... I can never stop being AUTHENTIC ... it's in my blood. NEVER stop writing ... I'd stop breathing ... NEVER stop critically thinking and appreciating the world around me ... I have no investment in suicide.

Be you, beauties. At your best always.

Love you.

oh ya! click HERE for HAPPINESS!

NEW YORK NEW YORK: This Weekend!

Looking for something to DO this weekend? LOOK NO FREAKIN' FURTHER, LADIES!!!!

You KNOW what time it is! And if you don't ... pretend (while taking discreet notes ... just don't make eye contact).

INFORMATION

Dates & Hours | Admission | Group Sales | Location | Directions | Hotels

All Artwork is for Sale
The National Black Fine Art Show, the premier fine art fair featuring an impressive array of original artwork by Black artists, is a yearly meeting place for knowledgeable curators, collectors and interested novices.

The Show will be held at 7 West 34th Street, across from the Empire State Building in the heart of Manhattan.

40 of the finest international dealers exhibiting work by 19th–21st century masters as well as newly emergent artists will be offered in a range of media from paintings, photography, limited edition prints, mixed media and works on paper to fiber art and sculpture.

Show Dates and Hours

Friday, February 13 Saturday, February 14 Sunday, February 15

Noon – 8:00 pm 11:00 am – 8:00 pm 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Opening Charity Preview Thursday, Febuary 12

General Admission
Daily Tickets/Passes available at the door only. Cash & checks only, admission includes Show Catalog.
Adults $15 (Students $10, with student I.D.)
2-Day Pass $25
Children 16 & under admitted free when accompanied by an adult.
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Charity Preview Party Hours & Options
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Patron Reception & Preview, 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Preview Party, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Be the first to browse the artwork and chat with art dealers at the only show of its kind, complete with cocktails & hors d'oeuvres a Show Catalog and one readmission Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
To Download Charity Preview Tickets Order Form Click Here
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Group Sales
Contact info@blackfineartshow.com
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Location
7 West 34th Street between 5th & 6th Avenues, across from the Empire State Building in the heart of Manhattan.

The Show is wheelchair accessible.
No strollers are allowed on the Show floor.
Café & Bar available at the Show.

Directions
Subway Stops /Lines
• 34th Street /Herald Square—B, D, F, V, N,Q, R,W
• 33rd Street /Park Avenue South—#6

City Bus
• 5th Avenue - Downtown—M1, M2, M3, M5 and M4 to Penn Station
• 6th Avenue - Uptown—M5, M6 and M7
• Madison Avenue - Uptown—M1, M2, M3 and M4 from Penn Station
• 34th Street - Crosstown—M16 and M34 (Directly to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center)

Bus Terminal
Port Authority Bus Terminal—8th Avenue and 42nd Street • 212.564.8484

Train Stations
Penn Station—8th Avenue at 34th Street (2 blocks from 7W New York)
• Amtrak—800.523.8720
• Long Island Railroad (LIRR)—718.217.5477
• New Jersey Transit—800.772.2222
• PATH—800.234.7284

Grand Central Terminal—Park Avenue and 42nd Street
• Metro North—212.532.4900
• Amtrak—800.523.8720

Parking
Numerous garages are available on 35th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues and nearby. Call the 7 W New York Concierge for locations, 212.279.6063.

and YES ... it WAS NECESSARY for me to copy and paste all that info for you!

Why?!?

Because I try to give you ladies the upper hand ... teach one to teach themselves and such ... and STILL ... i know sometimes we just get too busy to click the link! -_-

But AUTHENTIC does NOT want you to miss out on THIS!

muah!
who loves you babies?!?

stay real. stay AUTHENTIC.