It's a new year and yet again we have been blessed to experience another day - praises to the Most High! (better late than never right?)

Late last year I got the opportunity to be cover of the 007 issue of a local publication called The Lake Magazine. Working with quite a crazy but lovely team (very Cape Town) I actually enjoyed every moment of the evening shoot - literally that "I'm working on Friday evening" kind of shoot. Supported with some delicious tasting snacks, appetizing draaanks and the photographer's groovy playlist, we had fun! But other than the fitting ambiance, the team really took into consideration what amused my aesthetic taste buds (and I honestly appreciate that).

These days, it's rare to find that 'extra effort' put in by publications - if they win the opportunity to shoot your face, most times don't give two hoots about what you, the model, like. Luckily, I'm not just a model - I'm an artist who knows what the hell she likes. Qha.

Shout out to the stylist for tolerating that.
Philia, my sister from another mister, was also there by side. Thank you for that.

On the whole, my grim faces did not go to waste and more so, they were condoned. Heck yes, now that's what I call a shoot. Couldn't get your hands on the print? Check out the full article here.

Stay tuned. Stay blessed.

P.S. These images are outtakes from The Lake Magazine shoot.

Credits:

Photography - Hayden Phipps

Styling - Kristi Vlok. 

Hey Fam!

It kinda feels good to be posting again. S/O to the day one famalams of this blog and hey to the newcomers - welcome, your presence is appreciated.

A few weeks ago I was blessed with the opportunity to showcase my work at the FNB JoburgArtFair. Quite overwhelmed by the whole experience (as you'll see in the vlog below) I managed to keep my composure. This is something I do subconsciously when things feel surreal but believe me, inside, I'm vrek excited.

Considering that it was my first exhibition and first solo exhibition ever, I was feeling rather scared of the art critics and the reviews (because I know how ruthless art folks are can be) but it's understandable, of course. The art sphere is a world of stature and I respect it immensely to the point where I don't even consider myself an artist yet, but rather an 'artist in learning'.

But please don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to sell myself short. Blade Glover, for instance, has been in the art world for many years and he has gained and earned his respect. I'd like to be in that position someday but until then, it will take a few years.

Back to the topic of the Art Fair...

Thank you Johannesburg, I really felt the love and appreciation and truly there was no reason for me to feel scared; I received more good feedback than bad. Honestly? I'm not too crazy about my body of work (especially since I had to reshoot the bulk of it) but for some reason people still relayed heart warming words. So thank you for believing in me. The next exhibition is going to be a jump!

Last but definitely not least, thank you to my fellow brothers and sisters. You all reminded why I was even doing this in the first place - it's all for you. (Geez, I'm trying so hard not to be corny) BUT, young black peers this is our time. Take initiative (even if it's with the little you have) and make shit happen.  It takes time, but it will come at the right time. Don't rush your craft (especially if you want things to be done according to your terms).

K, I'm done. Now please watch this video! Philia and I put a lot of effort into it - The Local Collective baaybaaay.

Wanna see my work? Contact Christopher Moller Gallery or check out Artsy.net

Stay tuned. Stay blessed.

As part of the The Way of Us and the #SuperbMe campaign, Superbalist contacted a sister in regards to an oh-so-sweet collaboration. 

Besides Coca-Cola, Adidas is another brand that I'd like to touch base with; so when Superbalist presented the 'very close to the aspiration' offer, I jumped on it. Also, being nominated on the Superbalist 100 (which is a list I'd really like to care for) was a kind gesture from a cute mysterious human (thank you).

Shall we move along swiftly to body of this post?  

Lately, I've been highly enchanted by the Middle East culture, religion, fashion and so forth. And when I saw the Adidas Originals range, only one thought (that had been dwelling on mind for a few months now) sprung to mind:  M.I.A's Bad Girls Video. Strange? It's been weighing on me like a heavy, newborn baby burden blessing but the range was clearly a beautiful backhand hit from Serena Williams. 

Paisley prints (that are so damn reminiscent to those bandanna days) and monochrome colours. Although, I must add, black and white are not my favourite colours to consistently integrate but I guess the challenge was to seek the surrounding colours and bring them out. I hope it worked?

Inspired by M.I.A's Bad Girls video, I thought it would be interesting to marry the sportswear brand with the Middle Eastern traits (with all due respect that is). It's 'conservative', yet cool portrayal of the black and white Paisley print. 

Working with an all women team and very good friends, Diana, Philia and myself managed to execute the vision - ooooweee oooweee ! And I truly am grateful for this opportunity - I love Adidas.

P.S Babies are not burdens! I scratched that nonsense out.

Art Direction and Styling: Tony Gum

Photography: Philia

Models: Diana Musoni and Tony Gum

I think I've come to accept that "Why (Black) Coca-Cola?" is second most asked question in my life after "How are you?" (of course). What makes it awkward is that I know the true answer to that question but I'd rather dodge that bullet with a commercial response that'll probably make you think 'Wow, she's so deep.'

Side Note: I know it's been a while since I've updated my blog but it's not exactly my duty to entertain fellow humans but I'm sorry nontheless. I have a tumblr though, that's updated ever-so-often: Tonygumonline

As I was saying, please don't fall into the trap of asking me that question but if it's a one-on-one encounter, the chances of me giving-in to answer truthfully are high. I do not wish to deny good people of the truth.

And for those of you, whom I will not be so fortunate to meet, stay tuned on this site. As unreliable as it is, you know you love it ;) haha. The point that I'm trying to make here is that I want to share the journey with you. It's an experience - it's The Coke Evolution. 

Stay tuned. Stay blessed.