Fresh off The Breakfast Club interview on Power 105.1, Salaam Remi announces Slick Rick as the next headliner of the Midnight at MuseZeuM concert series in Miami, FL on October 28th, 2023 at Miami Beach Bandshell.JT Money featuring Poison Clan and a video dj set by Video Music Box’s Ralph McDaniels will also be featured at the Halloween Themed Event. Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, and Large Professor recently participated in the series.
Also in Miami, Bruhman hosted MuseZeum Season 2 in early August. The collection featured pieces by Remi, Tati Crooks, Ernie Panicolli and Ryan “Myagi” Evans and more. Remi also extends the MuseZeuM NYC Pop-Up, to run through September 30th. The collection, curated by Remi, will be on display at Legacy NYC – 98 Orchard St in Manhattan. Attendees will experience physical exhibits featuring a musical art collection curated by Remi himself. The collection includes several of his own pieces that are being shown for the first time. The collection includes art that has creative approval and financial participation by Bob Marley, Nas, Marvin Gaye, Slick Rick, Fab 5 Freddy, Amy Winehouse, Celia Cruz , Dennis Brown, Rakim, Betty Wright and more. Guests of MuseZeuM(NYC)will be able to experience one of a kind art from some of the greatest and most influential artists of all time. They will be able to purchase unique authenticated merchandise.Remi said, “As a lifelong creative, The expansion of the mediums I express my passion through has expanded over the past couple of years. MuSeZeuM is an ecosystem where artists and creatives can share their works with lovers of art and culture. We look forward to having many more join us on this journey to expanding the ways we experience what we love.”The PopUp’s last night – September 30th – will also be a celebration of the 10th anniversary of Mack Wild’s Grammy Nominated New York: A Love Story which Remi produced. Wilds and more will be in attendance with a new Art Piece accompanied by Special Anniversary Merchandise.
Hip Hop Fashion has always influenced fans, sports, music and most aspects of entertainment. In a dazzling fusion of high fashion and hip-hop culture, designer Kimberly Dumas has unveiled a groundbreaking creation to mark the 50th anniversary of hip hop – the Custom Black Biggie Smalls Crocs. Paying homage to the genre’s iconic figures and its undeniable impact on fashion, these custom Crocs are a stunning testament to the creativity and innovation that hip hop has inspired across various art forms.
The Biggie Smalls Crocs are not just another pair of shoes; they are a carefully crafted masterpiece that marries the laid-back comfort of Crocs with the opulence and style that have become synonymous with high fashion. Drawing inspiration from the legendary rapper Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls, Dumas has ingeniously woven together the elements that defined his style and legacy.
The most striking aspect of these custom Crocs is the meticulous detailing that sets them apart. One shoe is a nod to the iconic Coogi sweater, a signature of Biggie’s fashion repertoire. Dumas took this concept a step further by incorporating actual pieces of a Coogi sweater into the design. The result is a captivating blend of texture and color that captures the essence of Biggie’s bold and flamboyant style.
On the other shoe, Dumas channels the luxurious aesthetics of Versace, a brand that Biggie Smalls frequently referenced in his lyrics. Gold embellishments adorn the Croc, evoking the opulence that Versace is renowned for. But the pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the real crystals that spell out “Biggie Smalls” on the heel of the Croc. This detail not only adds an element of extravagance but also serves as a sparkling homage to the rapper himself.
Kimberly Dumas has been dubbed the NYC Croc Queen. Designing custom hip hop Crocs for the who’s who in the industry. “I needed to create a shoe to show Biggie’s fans that I mean business when it comes to celebrating one of the best lyricists to date. Having real Versace and Coogie pieces dominate the shoes were a necessity”, Dumas revealed. “Creating became something that fell into my lap. I was on vacation. I was staying with my sister who has everything in the world. I wanted to make her something money can’t buy. I decided to make her a custom pair of Crocs and the rest is history. It was my first time experimenting with any type of arts & crafts project and I have been customizing Crocs and other items for the past two years”, states Kim who made her sister a wedge Croc with bling on it. “It gave me so much joy to see my sister’s reaction”.
The Custom Black Biggie Smalls Crocs stand as a symbol of how hip hop has transcended musical boundaries to shape various aspects of culture, including fashion. Hip hop has always been a platform for self-expression and individuality, and these Crocs capture that essence flawlessly. They tell a story of an artist who defied norms, embraced his unique style, and left an indelible mark on both music and fashion. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip hop, the Custom Black Biggie Smalls Crocs stand as a testament to the enduring influence of the genre. They remind us that hip hop is more than just music; it’s a cultural movement that continues to inspire and shape the world around us. So, if you’re looking to step up your style game while paying homage to an icon, these custom Crocs are the perfect choice. Slip into them and walk in the footsteps of a legend, making a fashion statement that resonates with the beats of hip hop’s past, present, and future.
Check out the clip of other crocs and bling by Kim and CLICK HERE to follow her on social media.
Two decades ago, in the tranquil realms of rural China, a Wu Tang CD forever altered the artistic destiny of VanceDNA. The Museum of Graffiti now brings this electrifying sensation from Shanghai to the heart of Wynwood. Renowned for his transformative ability,VanceDNA morphs American pop culture icons into 2-dimensional transparent figures, offering a fresh perspective that’s both striking and introspective. Witness this evolution at the VIP Grand Opening Celebration of “TRANSPARENT” on September 9, 2023, from 6PM – 9PM.
From the intricate strokes of traditional Juangsu painting to the pulsating energy of hip hop and graffiti, Vance’s journey epitomizes the confluence of diverse cultural inspirations. His large-scale hyper-realistic murals and oil paintings are masterpieces of light, shadow, and the captivating allure of materials like glass and ice. Through a melding of time-honored techniques and contemporary inspirations, Vance creates a visual narrative that is both nostalgically evocative and groundbreaking.
Vance, a leading figure for the graffiti crew DNA in Asia and a proud member of Thailand’s MSV crew, has showcased his inimitable style everywhere from Macau’s streets to Germany’s elite galleries.
Alan Ket, co-founder of the Museum of Graffiti, shares, “Showcasing Vance DNA to the US audience marks a pivotal moment in the art world. His works are a harmonious blend of diverse cultures, eras, and emotions, presenting a fusion that’s both compelling and thought-provoking.”
Join us for this unparalleled artistic experience. Step into the Museum of Graffiti on September 9 and immerse yourself in a world where East meets West, and icons are reborn. The exhibit will be on view through November 15, 2023.
The Museum of Graffiti proudly announces the VIP Grand Opening Celebration of “TRANSPARENT” – a solo exhibition by the visionary Shanghai-based artist and Chinese painter, Vance DNA. This new body of work promises to offer a fresh perspective on style, straight from Shanghai. The opening is set for September 9, 2023, from 6PM – 9PM.
Born in Juangsu, China in 1990, Vance DNA’s artistic journey began early with landscape painting lessons at the age of ten. As a teenager, his love for American rap music and break dancing flourished when he discovered hip hop. At 14, inspired by his experience as a b-boy and a pivotal Wu Tang CD adorned with intricate graffiti art, he ventured into the world of graffiti. Merging his traditional painting lessons with contemporary influences, Vance developed a unique approach, creating large-scale hyper-realistic murals and oil paintings. His works showcase a rich blend of light and shadow, Western animation, and a fascination with materials like glass and ice. All these elements culminate in art that nostalgically celebrates his youth, backed by a lifetime of honed skill and discipline.
With “TRANSPARENT”, Vance DNA brings to life transparent figures that convey a poignant message: the urge for authenticity and the call to embrace the true reflection one wishes to see. This exhibition is a testament to his multi-faceted talents, blending pop-culture, fine art techniques, and an unmatched attention to detail.
Vance DNA is not only the only member of the world-famous graffiti crew DNA in Asia but also a proud member of Thailand’s MSV crew. His global recognition is evident as he has showcased his art and painted murals in numerous countries including the US, Thailand, Philippines, Bulgaria, Japan, Macau, South Korea, Indonesia, Mauritius, Germany, and Australia over the past decade.
“We are immensely pleased to host Vance DNA and showcase his innovative and evocative art,” says Alan Ket, co-founder of the Museum of Graffiti. “His creations go beyond artistry, striking a chord with the very essence of human authenticity and introspection.”
JAY-Z has toured with Beyoncé throughout the entire Renaissance World Tour. During the stop in New Jersey, Hov added to his personal art collection, purchasing fan-made pieces of his wife. The fan shared her journey and pictures with Hov on TikTok.
JAY-Z has been impacting the communities across America throughout the tour. During his stop in Chicago, HOV made a surprise visit to Bronzeville Soul, where his presence has since increased the business for the restaurant.
2Pac’s custom ring is scheduled to go up for auction later this month at Sotheby’s New York. The ring is made of gold, diamonds, and rubies, is shaped like a crown and was created in honor of his engagement to Kidada Jones. It’s estimated to bring in between $200K-300K when it goes up for auction July 18. The ring will be displayed at Sotheby’s New York from July 18-24.
To celebrate Hip Hop’s milestone 50-year anniversary, Sotheby’s presents its third dedicated Hip Hop sale, highlighting Hip Hop’s profound impact on art and culture across five decades, from its inception in the South Bronx in 1973 through today.
2Pac wore the self-designed ring to the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards just days before he was shot. According to Sotheby’s, 2Pac typically wore the ring on his left ring finger. It will be auctioned as part of a special series in celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip hop.
The ring is on offer from Yaasmyn Fula, the artist’s godmother who was one of Tupac’s most trusted advisors with all of his most important matters, including commissioning a new piece of jewelry to commemorate his achievements and usher in a new era of prosperity.
Featuring original art, historic studio equipment, sneakers and jackets, archival flyers and posters, rare artifacts, and more, the auction spotlights the iconic artists and trailblazers who defined not only the musical genre as we know it, but also the global phenomenon of Hip Hop culture spanning art, fashion and much more, including Tupac Shakur, Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Ice-T & Afrika Islam, Fab 5 Freddy, Big Daddy Kane, Futura, Lee Quiñones, UNKLE, and Mo’ Wax Founder James Lavelle, among many others. The sale will be presented in collaboration with entertainment company Mass Appeal, which throughout the year has curated an array of programming as part of its Hip Hop 50 initiative.
The Museum of Graffiti is thrilled to announce an exclusive evening with the iconic graffiti artist and airbrush pioneer Edwin “PHADE” Sacasa, better known as Shirt King PHADE. As part of Modelo’s Summer Culture Series to celebrate the contributions of black and brown graffiti artists across generations, PHADE will be leading an extraordinary Airbrush Masterclass on July 7th, 2023, from 6pm to 9pm.
This event is free and open to the public.
PHADE, co-founder of Shirt Kings in the 1980s along with partners Nike and Kasheme, is a legendary artist who elevated the art of airbrushing with his creativity and visionary designs. Based in Jamaica, Queens, Shirt Kings has been a hub for hip-hop artists and fans seeking unique, custom airbrush designs for over four decades. Their roster includes celebrated artists such as Big Daddy Kane, LL Cool J, and Jay-Z, positioning Shirt Kings at the intersection of streetwear and high fashion.
Attendees will get an intimate look at the revolutionary techniques and the brilliant artistry behind PHADE’s work and enjoy complimentary beverages courtesy of Modelo. This rare event allows fans, aspiring artists, and art enthusiasts to dive deep into the world of graffiti and airbrush art, guided by one of the most influential figures in the field.
PHADE’s masterclass continues the “Fighting Spirit Stories”, a series of inspiring and culturally-enriching events throughout the summer at the Museum of Graffiti. Named after Modelo’s long-standing tagline, “The Fighting Spirit,” these events highlight the relentless spirit of those who have left an indelible mark on the arts and culture scene.
“We’re excited to partner with the Modelo to provide a platform for these trailblazers to share their inspiring stories and impact on the culture,” says Allison Freidin, co-founder of the Museum of Graffiti.
San Francisco based Super7, the premier pop-culture design house and producer of lifestyle-oriented collectibles and toys, has teamed up with MF DOOM’s estate and Rhymesayers Entertainment to launch today their Operation: Doomsday themed collectible ReAction figure. One of Hip-Hop’s most beloved anti-heroes, the ever-inventive MF DOOM received widespread praise for his sharp, candid rhymes, as well as his choppy, sample-heavy production style. This 3.85″ articulated MF DOOM ReAction figure is inspired by the cover art from his celebrated 1999 debut album Operation: Doomsday and features his signature hoodie and mask, as well as a microphone accessory. Decades later, MF DOOM is still celebrated for all facets of his work and influence. In the face of tragedy, DOOM re-infiltrated the rap game on his own terms, and crafted an instant cult classic. Operation: Doomsday stands as a testament to the power of betting on yourself against all odds, making this a must-have for hip-hop collectors.
Additionally, the DOOM estate is releasing a limited run apparel line, including Operation: Doomsday inspired t-shirts and hooded sweatshirts, for adults and youth, as well as a baby onesie. Visit Gasdrawls.com for more information.
In a revealing Good Morning America interview, Victor Wembanyama, the highly anticipated NBA Draft prospect, opened up about his life beyond the basketball court.
Speaking with GMA co-anchor Robin Roberts, Wembanyama disclosed his second passion: drawing. The young basketball sensation expressed his love for art and revealed that if he hadn’t pursued a career in basketball, he would have dedicated his time to honing his artistic skills. This revelation offers a glimpse into the multi-dimensional talents and interests of the potential top overall NBA Draft pick.
“When I’ve got nothing to do, the first thing my mind is going to think about is grab a pencil and a sheet of paper and draw something,” Wembanyama said.
Entering the draft, it is all but declared that Wembanyama will join the San Antonio Spurs as the No. 1 overall pick. You can see the full interview below.
Always forward-thinking and innovative, the Hewlett-Packard Company continues to find new ways to break the mold. HP recently collaborated with internationally renowned architect/designer Germane Barnes to unveil a very unique exhibit. Create What’s Next—a recycling-inspired, immersive art exhibit highlights HP’s ink and toner cartridge recycling program right ahead of World Environment Day.
Create What’s Next: HP and Artist Germane Barnes Unveil Immersive Recycling-Inspired Art Exhibit at Studio 525
Create What’s Next: HP and Artist Germane Barnes Unveil Immersive Recycling Inspired Art Exhibit at Studio 525
HP and Studio Barnes held an exclusive viewing event at Studio525 in West Chelsea NYC featuring several movers and shakers in the industry. The young designer boasts an impressive architectural career that began at the tender age of 14-years old. From his uber-cool collaboration with Lexus to his Reconstructions: Architecture and Blackness in America exhibit—Barnes has become a pertinent force in the architectural world. Determined to change the narrative black men face in Chicago, Barnes is a true motivator and gives back to his students at University of Miami often inviting them to collaborate on Studio Barnes LLC projects.
Create What’s Next: HP and Artist Germane Barnes Unveil Immersive Recycling-Inspired Art Exhibit at Studio 525
Create What’s Next: HP and Artist Germane Barnes Unveil Immersive Recycling Inspired Art Exhibit at Studio 525
HP’s invite-only event to reveal ‘Create What’s Next’ featured a wall for guests to create and display their own designs and a cozy lounge. Keeping up with the recycled theme, light bites and refreshments were served from zero-waste, carbon-neutral caterer Purslane.
The Source got a chance to chat with the super humble Germane Barnes who shared his inspiration behind his new installation and chopped it up in one of his pods with 6-year old entrepreneur and future architect— Felicity of Felicity’s Seamoss. Check it out below,
I heard you grew up reading The Source Magazine—what was your favorite cover?
So when I was in high school, in 2001, this was right when ‘Ghetto Fabolous’ and Jay’s album the ‘Blueprint’ both dropped and I’ll never forget this day, The Source did a full spread and I think they gave Jay five mics and they only gave Fab four mics for what he had. And it’s funny because all I kept bumping was ‘Ghetto Fab’ and ‘Street Dreams’ and then one night I listen to Blueprint and I fell asleep and I woke up and I heard ‘Breathe Easy’ and I realized this was the added bonus record at the end that’s how long I’ve been reading The Source and a part of hip hop culture as a kid from Chicago.
If you had to design a sculpture for any MC who would it be?
Ooh that’s tough! Kid Cudi. So Cudi is one of my favorite artists because music speaks to you at certain points in your life. And when I was in grad school living in LA …not having enough money to even have food to eat…. so I could have money to learn how to design and have materials. Cudi’s ‘Man on the Moon 2’ got me through grad school. That’s what I think about the moodiness of the work…that was it.
How did this collaboration come about?
So I have a good friend Dejha Carrington that knows the Edelman PR team and they were looking for a different type of artist and she knew me based off the work that I do. She approached me and I told her I want to put people inside of an ink cartridge and them not know they are inside of an ink cartridge and that’s the entire installation.
How did HP get involved?
HP was Edelman’s client and they said, ‘Here’s our materials, what can you imagine with our materials?’ and I said, ‘Oh I can make a hula hoop out of the pellets, I can make a bench out of the shreds, I can make a chandelier out of discarded plastics and I’ll put them inside of these lit up pods.’ And I didn’t tell them I was making music videos because they wouldn’t have gotten it. When they saw it they said, ‘Oh it looks like a music video’ and I said ‘you got it’. The blue one was my ode to ‘Belly’ and Hype (Williams)… we were standing on top, we had the bubble lens…Definitely an ode to him.
What advice would you give future architects and designers like 6-year old Felicity who adores this installation?
When I was her age all I did was draw. One of the things I wished was told to me is there’s nothing wrong with being creative and every chance you get…have fun. The moment the drawing and the music and the building stops being fun you’ve lost something. It’s always fun to me. Everything I design, I design as if younger me would enjoy it. That’s why there’s hula hoops, there’s light sculptures… because I think would my younger self be ok with the stuff I make? And if it’s yes then I’m successful.
What does it take to make it in this field?
Being black in these spaces is hard as hell and you don’t get a lot of opportunities. It requires a certain amount of bravery to stay true to yourself and to do the stuff that makes you happy. So that blue pod is my way of saying regardless of what happens in this I’m gonna make my Hype Williams video.
Check out Barnes and Felicity’s photo/video shoot in Barnes infamous blue pod below.
