Love Letters to Virginia
By Vanessa Pazmiño
Love Letters to Virginia Sep 16, 2023
Deanna with HUMANITIES BEHIND BARS
humanitiesbehindbars.org/
Our pen-pal program offers an opportunity for folks on the outside to get matched with incarcerated comrades and learn about how the letter-writing operates as an abolitionist act of solidarity that builds networks of care in our community. All materials are provided and everyone is welcome!
We meet regularly on the last Thursday of every month at Eleanor’s, Norfolk’s local intersectional feminist book shop, from 7PM – 8PM.
If you can’t make it to our in-person sessions, you can always contact us via email to get matched with someone on the inside!"
*PO Box 11142Norfolk, VA 23517 USA
humanitiesbehindbars@gmail.com
Heather Beardsley, "Strange Plants" Part 2
On View in Chrysler Museum of Arts until October 29.
Heather Beardsley, Strange Plants, Part 1
Chrysler Museum Gallery Hosts, Nina Casillas & Kathryn Williams
Rachel Jaffe, Kiln the Game
"I craft functional and whimsical artwork to encourage play and conversation. My creations are intended to evoke a warm sense of home and meant to be touched, shared and cherished by all... My love for ceramics began in 2016, when my older sister, Julia, introduced me to this medium. She has always encouraged me to explore my artistic side and embrace the 3D world. As we explored and mucked around in our high school ceramics studio together, I became fascinated by the ability to shape earthen materials into lively creations. Thus began my clay journey. Much of my clay knowledge comes from, well, other clay people! I have learned so much through collaborating with other artists by sharing tools, techniques, and inspiration. I believe that art is meant to be shared and that the process of teaching and learning from others is an essential part of the creative process.Rather than pursuing a traditional academic path, I chose community studios as my learning environment. Before committing myself to ceramics, I briefly attended university in Pittsburgh, PA. Most of my time was not spent in the lecture halls. Instead, I ventured off-campus to a local community pottery studio, the Union Project, to satisfy my clay cravings. Later, I returned home to my job at Clay Cafe Studios in Falls Church, VA, where I shared my love of ceramics with elementary students. While teaching these young minds the wonders of clay, I also discovered new techniques and honed my skills as an artist. This experience served as a mutually beneficial opportunity for both myself and the children I taught.While I was accepted into art school, I ultimately decided not to attend. I chose to continue my education through more hands-on experiences. I adored teaching youth and continued my work at a local art center called River Tree Arts in Kennebunkport, ME. I had the wonderful opportunity to teach after school classes, connect with other artists, further develop my skills, and hone my personal style."
Find Rachel at a local market using the link below:
www.23beans.com/markets
Upcoming Markets 2023
July 22 // Christmas In July
5:00 - 9:00 PM@ Reaver Beach Brewing Co.3800 Colley Ave.Norfolk, VA 23508
Additional Resources:
www.arrowmont.org/store/
www.isjl.org/virginia-suffolk-encyclopedia.html
Michael Amland, Pedestrian at Best
Kyle Humphrey, Back in the VA Groove
Co- Hosted by Vaudeville Circus Performer, Maks Turner: Jessi DiPette, Marketing Director, Zeiders American Dream Theater
Local Playwright Jean
The Artist Member Program also offers member benefits to visual artists as well with an application process to exhibit in the beautiful lobby areas. This theater offers bi-monthly Open Mic nights to writers and performers, to learn more or catch a show go to:
Mary Campbell with Cake4Kids
We bake and deliver free birthday cakes for underserved children who might not otherwise receive one.
In a world where the basics of a positive childhood are often out of reach and youth have little to call their own, the seemingly simple gift of a birthday cake can make a huge impact by raising their self-esteem and confidence.
We partner with human and social services agencies to accomplish this mission.
How Does It Work?Cake4Kids is powered by an amazing and compassionate group of volunteers who donate all the ingredients and supplies to bake cakes for the youth in their own homes and then deliver them to our partner agencies who support the youth. We have no minimum commitment — volunteers choose how often and which cakes they want to bake!
Our volunteers never meet the children we support, but every cake is custom-made for each child and an enormous amount of love is baked into each one.
We partner with agencies and organizations throughout the country who serve the youth. Our partners request a cake on behalf of the youth, and Cake4Kids volunteers deliver directly to the agencies."
“DJ Mander” with Melody & Co Entertainment for "Lady Boss Expo" February 4th
Drew Armstrong and Tyler Yost of Pearloid
open.spotify.com/artist/4F32B5UaLIUQAP2UKBGdfM?si=q4-VGg2YRkS-ZVRsXw-NHA
open.spotify.com/artist/2bkkuVEffsWDKMfaL65XJS?si=KWqH9A0zShqtyClm_dansg
Will Smith, Documentrary Photographer and Filmmaker.
Heather Hakimzadeh, Curator at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
Sierra Fraser, Simply First Class
Virginia Beach City Workers Union Representative, Trina Love
Christian Joyner, Owner of Collaborative Health Outreach of Virginia
Managing chronic diseases with lifestyle changes and reducing the need for medication is just one of Christian’s many passions. A Norfolk native, Christian understands the need to balance a busy schedule with taking care of yourself for long-term health goals.”
Shirley Lu, Multimedia Artist & Illustrator
Shirley Lu is a rhythmically measured visual artist, from her painting on the inside of an oyster shell alone, titled: "Perpetual Motion", one begins to realize- Shirley must not stay still for long. Her ability to create realistic images seems to come as second nature as her subjects. Shirley Lu is Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art's Atrium Artists in Residence for the month of July. Observe her painting demonstration 10am-3pm the 16th, 23rd, & 30th Her work as well as three other local contemporary artists comprise of the featured exhibit in the Fleming Gallery, Summer 2022.
Spencer Tinkham, Contemporary Sculpture and Art Restoration
"At the age of eight, Spencer Tinkham (b. 1992) discovered the exhilaration that few people achieve in a lifetime. A simple pocketknife, given to him by his grandfather, launched both his passion for creating and his future as an artist. Enthralled by the rich biodiversity that inhabited the water’s edge in Norfolk, Virginia, Spencer’s love for nature was also sparked early on. He realized that through sculpture, he could create lasting mementos of fleeting encounters. Spencer sculpted many readily available household materials- mostly soap bars and wood scraps. His tools were limited and primitive- a pocketknife, a hacksaw, and a pencil. Before Spencer graduated high school, he had already twice-won the Danner Frazer Youth Decorative Wildfowl World Championship.
Spencer has no formal art training and is entirely self-taught. He continues to use primitive tools and mixes his oil paints from pigment powders. Most of his sculptures are still made out of found materials and are wildlife focused. Spencer’s sculptures draw influence from literature, folk art, Modern art, and contemporary art. Spencer is intrigued by the repetition of human behavior over history and uses animal sculpture to help people ponder their impact on the environment and each other.
Most recently, Spencer was inducted into the National Sculpture Society as an Associate Member. “Colaptes auratus auratus” was juried into the prestigious Leigh Yawkey Woodson “Birds in Art 2022” museum exhibition. He has work in the Dollar Tree, Inc. corporate art collection, and has sent his sculptures to many private art collections worldwide." https://www.spencertinkhamart.com/about-spencer-tinkham.html
Leveling up with Benjamin Banks, Podcast Host and Pro Wrestler
Arn Mesa, Video Game Developer
Programmer and self taught video game developer, Arn Mesa tells us about his journey of finding the balance between practical, technical applications and the fantastical world of storytelling and creativity. Arn is looking to build a creative team, marketing, story development and an illustrator to build on the work he is currently doing- taking commissions for game development. For any inquiries please contact him directly: ArnmazingStudios@gmail.com
Kevin Fitzpatrick, Postcards from San Diego
Tiffany Frazier, "Girl in the No"
Jon Shuemaker
The Phases Difference Part 2
The Phases Difference with David Norton, Part 1
Real Appalachia
Model & Actress, Khari Chaye
This gorgeous young woman was one of my first peers to truly instill a newfound confidence in me. I met Khari in High School where we were both pursuing vocal perfection. Growing up in an environment that is so competitive, often to the point of ruthless toxicity, Khari and I were lucky to have great anchors of support. We were immersed in a world that really forced us to see the bigger picture and to learn to work together like a well oiled machine.
The Matt Dad
Shine a Light Hosted by Heard Productions
Girl, Heal podcast hosts: Abby Weaver & Christina Kimbrough
Stormy Blue, Foodie/Adventurer/Vlogger
Omar Perez, Owner of Gran Maya and Co-Owner of Three Amigos Restaurants
Christine Ross, Aid Another
Marquis "KutzbyPIC" Glover, Real Love
Born in Philly, graduate of Cox High School in Virginia Beach, "PIC" knew he wanted to be a barber at 13. He fully manifested his passions as they developed, his love of hair grew his love of music and a drive to fuse the two. His early life led to him joining the army which only further fueled his desire for consistent creative outlets and would eventually lead him across the globe and back to VA. His spiritual awakening has continued to shape not only his careers but every aspects of his life. His mentor left a lasting impression on him by bestowing on him these words of wisdom: " I know, I intend, I expect & I desire", a mantra for manifestation that can be used in all aspects of your life where you want to charge and invigorate that which is already yours and coming to you.
Day 28: Lauren K.C., Owner of Phases Metaphysical Salon
Phases Metaphysical Salon and Spa is a blend of all natural retail ranging from hand soap and lotions to just about any crystal your heart desires. The "phases difference" is the tranquil and upbeat energy you experience from the moment you walk through the doors. Our expertly trained stylists offer a wide range of services from a simple men's cut and beard trim to lightening, fashion colors and trendy cuts. James is our licensed massage therapist on staff, we also offer waxing services, sugaring, eyebrow tinting. Our Gallery wall features local art with the option to purchase and take a painting home, tarot readings are a great add on service while you are processing or can be done ala cart if you are looking for a relaxed environment to vibe with our stylists before deciding on a service. Check out our services to book us online with the link below, https://www.vagaro.com/phasesmetaphysicalsalonandhealingcenter/services
Day 27: Lostboi, Cedar Gray
Day 26: Photographer & Videographer, Alvin Parker
Day 25: And Then We Had Sex hosts: Kristen Sivills & J-Rod
Day 24: Tracy Langford 360 Vintage Designs & More
New Jersey Born business owner Tracy Langford developed her passion for vintage clothing at the age of 16.
Day 23: Travis Jones, Screenwriter & Poet
Travis reads his poem, "The Effects of Plants".
Day 22: Angel Jones Goodrich, Founder of Divine Trinity Day Spa 2222222
Spa✨G-Steam✨Energy Work✨(757)✨
Health/beauty
🍑 Best Femme Spa in Virginia Beach
🍑 Custom Herbals for Every Womb
🍑 Goddess Vaginal Steaming ✨G-Steam
🍑 FREE WOMB Quiz
💝 Follow ♾ Join Babe Squad!👇🏽
form.jotform.com/213284191730149
Services:
www.divinetrinitydayspa.com/see-services
Day 21: I Grew Up in Tidewater
Day 20: Gayle Jessup White, Author of Reclamation: …
At Age 13, Gayle was shocked to learn her secret century old family lineage, her aunt revealed that they are direct descendants of Thomas Jefferson. I believe that this knowledge led Gayle to the pursuit of truth in every story as a reporter on a subconscious journey of self discovery. Gayle Jessup White began her career as a Journalist with the New York Times, she has been a news anchor, a professor and is now the Public Relations & Community Engagement Officer at Monticello. Her book, Reclamation: Sally Hemings, Thomas Jefferson, and a Descendant's Search for Her Family's Lasting Legacy is a testament to acknowledge the ugly side of history, and remind folks that this really wasn't all that long ago.
Day 19 - Staci Murawski, Director of Little Theater of Norfolk's, Ann!
Day 18: Sierra Hall, Ratchet Scholar to I Am Queen Scholar
Atlanta based recording artist, Ratchet Scholar released "4 a Blck Girl" in January, link below.
https://open.spotify.com/track/47RiffsMoj0n3ItC7PeDtb?si=f92da975a46d4e28
Artist Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/4BwlCHHS4TlChdCLHtzeZ6?si=0ZSP5-LtTmai7QOpd8I9eA
Day 17: Sergio M. Lorenzana, Cinematographer
Day 16- Jonquil Moore, Visual Development Artist
Day 15: Sunny Delights
Day 14: Niquo Hawkins, Vet Kinect
