Love Letters Signed; 'The Sun'

Book Rave: "The Autobiography of Malcolm X"

2011-12-21T16:00:00.000-05:00

Strikingly truthful writer, Alex Haley. wrote the "as told to" book about Malcolm X's life. I read and finished it about 2 weeks ago. I recommend this book to EVERYONE of all races, religion, background and age. However, If I had to target a specific age group, I'd have to say the older generation should read this. Including those ages 50 and above. These are the people who were alive and well when Malcolm was on the rise. Some of these people still make disapproving remarks about him and his legacy to shift society. What so many of them don't know is that the same reasons they didn't approve of him were justified in the ending of this book.

Not many people knew the man he'd become before his assassination. I urge you to read and find out.

I approve this book and applaud the late, Alex Haley.

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Dish of the Day: Thai Curry Noodles with Tofu

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

I am now a cook at my job. Who would have ever guessed?? You probably can't answer that, so I will. LOL. I would have NEVER guessed in a million years that I would be a cook ANYWHERE. Let alone a job.

I have been under the wing of a very vibrant co worker of mine who has been eager to teach me what I know. It has been really therapeutic to prepare meals. It obviously feels amazing to have people tell me my entrees taste and looks delicious too!

Below is a quick pic of a dish I made last week, Thai Curry Noodles with Tofu. Although we were out of the appropriate noodles, I substituted them with spaghetti noodles. (=

Better captures in the future, promise!

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One Year REAL HAIR Anniversary!

2011-12-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

I have been fully natural now (no permed hair on my "crown") for one year and 2 months. It feels AMAZING!!!! It it the BEST thing I have ever done in my 20 years alive. It is a decision I can thoroughly say I am proud of.

When I was around 6 or 7, my twin and I began to get perms. I do not remember whose idea it was but if my older self had been a fly on the wall it would have NEVER happen. I now have a permanent, shiny bald spot the size of a dime in the center of my head on my scalp. No hair follicles, no nothing! That happened 13 years ago when I first moved to RVA. It is the perfect example for ALL as to why you should not put chemicals in your hair to straighten it. We were not born with straight hair, so why alter it? Damaging effects come with perming your hair if not taken care of properly and I can definitely attest to that.

I feel like a lot has been revealed to me since I began to rock my own hair.

Here is a video the day after after my 1 year REAL hair anniversary. Yes, I said REAL. I like that term a little better.

I strongly encourage all beautiful black women and young girls to make that change if they are debating it. It only benefits you. If you are not ready, you will know. When you are it will be even more evident. Don't do it because someone is pressuring you but because someone is encouraging you!

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Like My Work? Support!

2011-12-14T07:00:00.005-05:00

I cannot believe I have failed to mention to you lovely people that I have a support page on Facebook for my modeling work (I hate to use the term "fan"). I like to call people who admire my work, supporters; because at the end of the day that is what you do. Support. I understand some of you may not own a FB page, however you can still view all it has to offer. On the page, you get updates regularly on what I am up to as far as shoots, videos, fashion shows and events. Of course pictures are there to view, only 36 albums full! ; ) Hahahaha.

You will definitely see my growth as a model because I have left the photos from the early shoots up for viewing. I am working to make my page more interactive with new ideas and concepts to share with you. So I have made a video section for tips, discussions and live updates for a more personal feel. I guess people really like to JUST look at models and not talk. Bhahahaha. I want to hear more from you besides comments on the pictures is all I am trying to say. (=

Please do not hesitate to post, share and talk about my work with your peers, ya never know who is listening and/or watching. Y'all know I wouldn't mind being a WORKING, PROFESSIONAL model signed to n great agency. Just don't forget to credit where you found it and who all was involved in that particular photo shoot. DON'T forget to credit the photographer, especially. That info is available under the picture you choose to use or in the album name itself.

Without further babbling, here is the key to my support page, see you there!

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Daishaun 'Shain' Parker

2011-12-13T20:14:00.002-05:00

I recently met Shain Parker, a fashion design student at Virginia State University. He's worked along-side Yussef Agbo Ola, fashion photographer. Shain is a gifted fashion designer and creative director. Below is a clip from 'VSU Today' featuring Shain sharing myself and a little inspiration behind his creations and vision. Check it outttt!
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Yup, you guessed it! That's Aunt Viv from 'The Fresh Price of Bel-Air". Her and husband, Tim Reid, play influential, hands on roles at VSU.

RVA Magazine features Yussef Agbo-Ola

2011-07-08T18:03:00.000-04:00

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2011-07-04T19:49:00.003-04:00

ut a Blogger plugin from my cell hoping it works. Peace. (=

2011-07-04T19:49:00.001-04:00

Hello, beautiful people! It's Independence Day! The rain is kind of sucky here in rva but I hope you've enjoyed your day up until this point. I'm just testing o

Seva Omar

2011-07-03T12:00:00.005-04:00

The singing beauty Seva O!

Song by Rihanna

Video by Voir Dire

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Bree El Davis

2011-07-02T08:15:00.010-04:00

Self portraits have always been favorites of mine to experience. When you're an artist you are able to depict art exactly how you envision it, right? Well, I've figured that's just one of those "easier said than done" type of things; especially with a camera. I mean, I've tried it. Running back and forth from behind the camera to a focused spot and getting the exact image you hope for isn't all that easy. Unless you have one of those camera remote controls (I think I've been fooled up until this point). LOL. Well, either way Bree does it with ease.

This is a girl who doesn't wait for crosswalks, and lives by the statement, "The weather cannot tell me how to dress". She's spontaneous and full of life and excitement. These adjectives scream from her work. Aside from that, I just think she's pretty damn cool. Check her outttt- - >Bree El Photography

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Hole in Jean Pocket: Summer Sidewalk Sale!

2011-07-01T14:09:00.001-04:00

I wrote about Hole in Jean Pocket created by these two ladies named Bevin Anderson and Alayna Carter while writing for another blog not long ago. Here are 2 fashionable ladies from VCU who are passionate about wearing what you love for the price of almost NOTHING. In coming up with creations or rummaging through timeless clothing, the ladies came up with an idea one Summer that stuck. Every Saturday, they've committed to the sidewalk of Main & 19th in Shockoe Bottom to sell original and thrifted clothing for both girls and guys! So look out for them from 12 to 4pm each Saturday beginning July 9th. They've even put together this great video to put word out:

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The Diversity Pinup Project

2011-07-01T08:15:00.000-04:00

Recently, I had the honor of participating as a model in The Diversity Pinup Project. The concept and project was developed by Ellie Retrophilia who is a "Pinup Angel" as well as a makeup artist and model. The photo above was captured by Melissa Duck-Carr, who is just one of the many photographers included in the ongoing project.

The Diversity Pinup Project was created to embrace the influence that women of color have had on history throughout time. It's also an opportunity for models involved in the project to update and build their portfolios with beautiful, tasteful and timeless photographs. Kudos to Ellie for the thought of such a magnificent idea.

Here you can learn more about the project. If you are interested in modeling or photographing at a session, you are encouraged to inquire.

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2011-06-30T17:16:00.000-04:00

Art by Jessica Morris

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No Worries, Sudan.

2011-04-14T16:41:00.001-04:00

Remember Manyang? You have got to. Not to mention that he was the last person I talked about here, but the guy is on a mission! Gratefully asking for helping hands and giving hearts, this man could really use your support. April 30th at the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls, the event, "Kumbaya, Hakuna Matata" will take place - for the 3rd time annually. African dance, food, art, and a fashion show, along with more festivities will all make the event a great one to occupy. Admission and food are free and if you're down at the VCU Student Commons before 3:30 P.M, you can even hitch a ride to the event- in a limo! That's exciting. Caitlin Uze (who happens to told the Miss Virginia 2010 crown) will be speaking along with other honorees.

It's all happening with one cause in mind, the quest for Manyang to improve his country, Sudan. Helping with funding and trade to teach self sustainability is just one goal. With a little time and genuine concern, you can help make this goal a reality.

April 30th, The Virginia Home for Boys and Girls
8716 West Broad St.
5-8 PM

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Sudanese Lost Boy: Living the 'American Dream'

2011-03-19T20:52:00.003-04:00

I thought stories like these would only be heard of on my television screen, not in my 'real' life...

Manyang is truly sepcatacular. If you've personally met him, you already know that he is the life of any scene, brightening many days with his wide, signature grin and contagious personality..
Do you know his story? Everyone's got one, here's part of his.

Humanity Helping Sudan from John G. Warner on Vimeo.

Bless you and keep helping and making your people proud.

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Through the Eyes of Brianna: Self Portraits

2011-02-20T22:53:00.000-05:00

Self portraits can be simply amazing if captured truthfully. Often, I wonder how a photographer sees themselves. Brianna Townsend's new website displaying her photography fulfills each wonder in my busy mind. Her self portraits are in the first section of her many themes of photography. Here is one that held my attention for a while way before she and I had the chance to collaborate. I'm grateful we did. She is breathtaking.

View more here

I know you won't be able to help yourself, so I don't have to tell you to check out her other amazing work.

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Art 180 Mural Art Program

2011-02-16T00:48:00.000-05:00

Volunteering with Art180 has been nothing less than rewarding. When I was asked to volunteer as a program teacher's assistant, I was taken aback but another part of me was thinking "This is your chance to work with children like you've been wanting to". So I took the offer. I'm really proud I did.

The Mural Art program that I am helping to lead is now over for the Fall/Winter semester. Spring is approaching and we are going to utilize that time (not to mention warm weather) to finish our mural.
Our kids proved to be champions! This winter definitely had its cold evenings and we were out painting during them on Thursdays, faithfully.

Here are a couple of beautiful images I got to capture with my camera at our 'Open Studio' to showcase the kids'work:

Artist/Program Leader,' Ham?' at work.

Not hardly done, but I hope you enjoy the progress so far. I'm looking forward to the Spring Semester! I'll be inviting you to our final Open Studio.

P.S.- I've developed my first nickname, 'Spam!' during our program. It matches the program leader's (HAM?) name. How awesome. Haha.

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Unexpected Blogger Hiatus.

2011-02-15T19:12:00.000-05:00

Wow!

It has been a while. I apologize. I really appreciate those who have been keeping up with the blog openly (and secretly) and many thanks go to new readers as well. There is so much I have to share with you.

For starters, my laptop has been with a friend of mine in Georgia being fixed because of anti virus malware. That's over.

[long sigh]

I'm happy now. I can do a lot of things again that not having my laptop has hindered me from completing. No complaining necessary. Stay tuned for some interesting news!

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Meet Me Under the Mistletoe- Colin Healy

2010-12-09T16:08:00.000-05:00

Colin Healy, the artist. Danielle Canfield, the model. Making magic.

Check it out:

Happy Holidays, readers!

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Volunteering with ART180.

2010-12-09T15:38:00.000-05:00

Ya know, I underestimate the events that take place in my life. I'd like to think of my life as pretty average and maybe even simple. Some people think otherwise. Just because of pictures viewed online from a fun night or a photo shoot.Weird. However, I'm gradually-but surely-beginning to realize I just may be involved in some things that greatly inspire other people. I say those things to say this: I completely forgot to mention to you guys that I have been volunteering for ART180. Since October actually, so that makes 2 months.

Sorry?

ART180 is an organization that usually uses artists as liaisons here to change our youth's live's through art. Might I add, the idea is totally genius. Learn more here.

Of course it's dear to my heart, which is why I should have shared. That's what this blog is about, things I love. So, as mentioned in my last post, local artist HAM? and I are working together to create the 'Mural Art' program at a Boys and Girls Club here in RVA. Last week, we helped out students to begin creating their own mural on the actual building we hold class in! The Boys and Girls Club, awesome, right? The project is going great and I love the personalities of each and every child. I will keep you guys posted and will of course post images of our mural when they are all done.

Here is a picture from the first project I helped out with ART180 though, 'Paint Outside the Box Day'.

Hope you guys have enjoyed!

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Artist Ham? Earns 'Bragging Rights'.

2010-12-09T15:06:00.001-05:00

I've gotten the chance to network with AWESOME artists of all mediums and genres around RVA. About a year ago (my memory is gross) I was introduced to 'Ham?' (architect/visual artist/muralist) online by a known promoter on Facebook. I admired his work from afar in the beginning. Who would have though I'd be in charge of a' Mural Art' class for children with him here today? Wow. The mural in this video is one of the reasons I took an immediate notice to him in the first place.You will too.

My controversial comment "If you're not making this much noise in RVA, then "bragging rights" don't belong to you, artists" is all I can say about this man. Brilliance at it's best, HAM?.

For more info about HAM? and his work, visit http://www.whosham.com/

Don't forget to check out the installation by HAM? inspired by me- a muse and the BP oil spill.

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Personal Update- Post Thanksgiving/Pre Xmas

2010-12-06T18:38:00.001-05:00

It's definitely been a while, I apologize. I hope everyones holiday is nothing short of memorable, eventful, and of course family-oriented. I have been inspired to write on many occasions but haven't been able to utilize the time I may have had to write. I never have answers to justify actions of this nature, lol. Excuses, excuses is the word fit here and I am trying to stay away from those.

Life is good. I'm discovering and finding new things about myself that I grow to love as each day progresses into a week, weeks into months and months into a year. I hope you guys can find some empowerment or inspiration in that last sentence because I truly believe our goal here in human form is to do just that. Empower, share, help to guide and inspire.

I'd absolutely enjoying hearing more from you guys when you read. I see some of my readers may be comment shy, and that is okay. However, I do encourage you to share comments, concerns and opinions - respectfully of course.

I'd also like to include that I do appreciate my readers and those you who who've taken time to follow my writings, promotion and experiences here on my blog. Please continue to support, read and share with me!

--Soliél

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We Love MJ- & Family.

2010-11-09T16:45:00.002-05:00

Is it me or does Oprah have access to the best stories when it comes to the entertainment business? Whether you agree or not, she has done it again! She's reeled in answers to the most controversial speculations about the most lovable entertainer to uniquely graced stages worldwide, ever. Michael Jackson.

This interview may take a lot off of your mind when it comes to the feelings of Michael, his relationship with his children and the inside world of addiction with "normal" people-not just celebrities. I went "Ohhhh, wow" in my head a few times because I was genuinely surprised at some of the things shared about Michael. Relieved in a sense too.

Here is a three part interview with Oprah, Mr and Mrs. Joe Jackson, and the children of Michael and Randy Jackson from Youtube.

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RVAlution gifs from Todd Raviotta

2010-10-04T01:27:00.001-04:00

Wow, I first heard of Todd after the 'Model Citizen' show back in March at Gallery 5, in which I modeled locally. He is into graphics. OBVIOUSLY. If you haven't noticed (in case you've already clicked the link).

There is more. Raviotta's Facebook page describes him as a(n) "Director, Editor and Educator". This is an enormous understatement. RVAlution go'ers- please - see for yourselves. Everyone else, just witness as an outsider. Haha.

Gif link: RVirAl: Archive

Here is one awesome shot that Todd captured of me from the 'Model Citizen' show put on by RUMORS BOUTIQUE.

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"Facebook, I want my face back."

2010-09-04T03:17:00.000-04:00

Although our use for social networking may vary, this is true for a majority of people. Social networking is making a lot of people "socially awkward". I picked that up from a poem I heard at Slam Richmond, here in RVA. Very unfortunate, but true. This young lady definitely tells a familiar story to everyone listening. I'm almost afraid to know where technology could lead us as far as the subject of social involvment. Check it out.

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