a how to guide on creating an asymmetrical neckline

Shenlei E. Winkler

Author, Designing Dreams: Best Practices for the Art & Business of Avatar Apparel Design & Development

Author, Shengri La Spirit: A Designer’s Perspective of the Making of OpenSim

http://www.shenlei.com

But that “OUTFIT”

BTW I’m Looking for sellers or collectors of Vintage black or/and African clothing.. (1920-1980)

But again, check the Jumpsuit out .. Ms Wyche you can do this! You already have a top.

I finally realize what I’m missing, one place that you can just find great clothing on a regular basis! Not the cheap poorly constructed stuff but a great boutique that has a selection of creative top class designers! I’m not speaking the “one Designer” store either! they are no fun… NY and especially Brooklyn used to be about great boutiques… now we have many “Fast Fashion” “Spots” with little ambiance, the worst store clerks, who have no sense of style, trying to hustle… shopping should be well fun!

I am willing to be corrected if you know of a great boutique please share and you cannot nominate your self! If your customers can’t vouch for you… you’re not doing something right!

Even On teh web as we’re putting together the designer online sale for later this month… there are so many great designers of African Heritage! You Can’t find them… unless you know them and their web address! Even Then their websites remain the same year after year…. PLEASE STOP USING FLASH! Get a platform with RSS, some sharing features and if you must then add Flash “widgets”!

Back to great design… and I’m not speaking costume, the dramatic stage effects we see. so often. I’m speaking great wearable, well designed clothing! That would still look good 40 years from now.

Maybe what we need are better events to wear fabulous clothing… promoters can you help… maybe get back to promoting events and stop trying to pimp … I mean Prostitute, I mean present… Fashion Shows!!

its time to take action.  You do not need to head over to our 28 Squared Site and sign up…just click this link or

If you are on one of our web  pages you can sign up below. if Your are reading a feed (we even brought it to you) You’ll need to head over to sign up!!

If you need some explanation read on but at the end YOU NEED TO DO SOMETHING!

I  can ask you and even send you various emails of various length  but frankly I do not have the time… your community needs you to get of  your behind and DO…

We are good at waiting  at putting on a show at appearing busy! The truth is  most of you have the time! We have the desire. I cannot say this enough you’re an adult stop waiting for motivation get up and do something for your community

WHAT,  HOW?

As project lead I design solutions to create change!

This project from the inception has been about using technology to create solutions! The process of design  “creating to solve problems or add pleasure” , to problem and/or situations as defined, can be a hobby or a business. I chose it as an art project!  Along the way however we have helped many!

So what are the problems and the solutions.

The recent tragedy in Haiti.. Affected us all and everyone I know wants to do something,  all our communities are hurting!

Giving of oneself is a gift with it’s own rewards! We run this project in Brooklyn but for the last two years we’ve included a designer in France who has the same problems that local designers have…  and no it is not marketing, There is a lot to do before “exposure”!

If all we have is time, talent or even the ability to communicate that can go so far in helping others since accepting this challenge on October 28th last year,  I had set as a mandate to help locals needing to find a way to support themselves and their family and the team had in September decided to  use group project to help community organizations!  At Web 2.0,  I met a two women both with projects outside the US, One I have promised to help in her quest to help artisans in Senegal, the other is helping us with her technology companies technology!

Europe,  US, Africa the Caribbean..  There is more that connects us than separates us!

Ultimately the core projects help utilize natural “resources”, time talent, community to create and build change! We know it works the challenge issues in October was to take it national in the US and in then adapt it to the Caribbean region!

Fortunately we are able to communicate in real time across oceans, with little difficulty and even less cost! There is so much need how can we use distance technology to get the information out there, what do we  as leader  need to do …  how do we get individuals to to put aside fears and preconceived notions and yes work together!

We usually have had a group of young people from various backgrounds volunteer as models. They work together even when culturally it was not the  norm! It may seem simple, but there contributions have helped feed many families! Images sell and a small designer often cannot afford to cover these! Some use their knowledge of technology or their ability to post and text to share news and information, they use their networks! In a digital divide that is a great help! So yes giving of self time and talent is important!

What is significant they were giving what they had and doing what they loved!

Which is what I see has the most effect… Give what you have, doing what  you love! So if you love to sew and have the time to, sew! If you have space and it can be used donate it! If you can cook have a taste party!

We are in the design field we either love to DESIGN or SEW,  and  yes some of us  LOVE TO SHOP.. and some love  to show off  or perform! I now have to take the raw component and create something that people would LIKE! I am a connector … I love design as solution! So Sew Social one of the aspects of 28squared will focus on design for change!

Pulling The components together

One of the designers from our African Heritage Month celebration has created  two designs, that we will be use on merchandise ! He too is Haitian, giving of talent! Any non profit needing to use the logo that type of service or merchandise can contact us!

I am already working on getting designers to donate clothing that will be resold or auctioned. I have a sign up page http://www.28squared.com/support

We’re donating some of our great images and photos to a Print auction online, that Flickr is hosting!

So yes photographers and artist can donate images! Performers, if you can’t do it alone get together with others!

From  my friend in the tech community. We need individuals with tech skills to sign up for a one or two day type Tech initiative with Haitian organization, who know and understand what is needed…  our goal is simple turn our talents time and efforts into cash for relief!

I actually have another young woman who lost 3 family members; her organization is the Haiti’s Hungry Task Force and has teamed up with Haitian
American Care, Inc. out of Boston. (operating for 2 years in
Haiti with 2 mobile clinics they supply.www.haitianamericancare.org. they need help!

I  myself am donating all the profits from Sew Social and would love to work with any models designers or photographers who want to volunteer! Our photographer has volunteered his photography services! We have artwork and media services!

We can get volunteers.

We can Create , we need to sell relief … it should be easy  but have you bought anything with Haiti in mind have you gone to local events supporting local causes, have you packed up your products, and I’m not speaking of sending the clothing you do not want…

Yes they need clothing but what type… where will they wash these,   how appropriate is the relief!

Intentions are great, selling relief is HARD especially as memory of  disaster fade.

so what will i do how do I Design Relief…  I’ve done a brief  inventory of what i  have access to. I’m researching what I need; I have ideas. The process of bringing an idea to fruition is what actually  Sew Social is about…

The reason there is no change is because

1. we do not know how to design change
2. We do not know how to implement change
3. we are waiting for someone else to do it

So back to my main concept I want people to do what they love for relief  but NIKE got “Just DO IT™”.. Probably the best slogan ever…

Let’s focus on the individual and taking responsibility “I AM”

AM Artist Mosaic the First phase of this project is still around, it’s about artist working together for change

“I am Brooklyn” did not seem right Brooklyn is everything! I AM not doing everything!  “I am 28 Squared”, we wanted this to expand beyond the confines of  “I AM (@$#^&)ing  4  RELIEF™” .

” I am —-ing 4 RELIEF™

I Like It… I’ll keep it but, will it work

Most,   working in or on RELIEF, are Moms and Faith based organization, Imagine the Rabbi or Pastor with that shirt! So maybe, I need to modify the statement! That is just the start of the design process… we need to stop waiting and design for change!
www.demarketplace.com/blog

Please excuse the candor of this post.  Two recent conversations have brought me to one of those rants that many will agree with but few will say out loud!  The Journalist and Media outlets in our community are failing themselves and our community,

I cannot understand anyone in the 18 -40 age group serious about employment not wanting to learn or making extra efforts to beef up their technology skills…but someone from a local paper telling me they could not download and open a PNG file sent via Gmail was the last straw!

Why do we refuse to be ready for life as it is today…

Few speak honestly of the issues within our community… looking good especially in a public setting is a cultural obsession and we go out of our way not to air issues in public…

We have an issue with local communications and media centers as represented by local press!

The local press is a vital link, be it micro radio (underground radio) or print formats.  If you want to access our community, they are vital. Yet, pick up the papers or tune into the local stations.  For the most part articles are of little substance; they are the white bread in the media menu… filling but of no nutritional value!

These outlets  are often lucrative money makers for the individuals in charge! In some, even articles are often secured when you take an ad! Expect that from newsletters, which are more about fetes than about issues!

I, like most, pick up the local papers hoping for information on our community.  To be honest I find the style of journalism – dated, articles and images are focused on individuals not issues.. the result – an ill-informed community that is years behind in progress!

Yet, I still pick up the latest issue hoping for change…

I opened my email this morning to find a note from a freelance journalist stating that the local paper needed an image to go along with an article or the information would not be printed!

Do not let the name fool you – Caribbean Life is a major access point to the local readers in Brooklyn! If you want to get information into the hands of the Brooklyn Community this and it’s sister publications are key!

I have not seen the article I am just hoping it is focused on technology and the work I do to help businesses rather than on me as an individual!

As it was, I was in meetings with project sponsors for 28Squared… (more on that later) which will allow us to access some of the latest tools from tech companies. I came home to have an early morning conversation with a young woman … on why she was not ready nor had not attended the free seminars, and discovered on opening my mailbox today an email  telling me that the local paper could not download a .png file…

As I See It that’s pure BS!

.PNG is available in the paint program that comes pre-installed with any computer today… it is one of the most basic file formats!

So I fired off an email… which may illicit some comment from the 28Squared PR team but… addressing the “Digital Divide” is a platform I am intent on taking on this year!

A Copy of my Letter To Kenton Kirby Editor at Caribbean Life Newspaper
PNG comes in the paint program that is on each computer.  It is ONE of the basic file formats. Have whoever cannot download this call me… I will come in and show them how to  do their job!

I do not mean to offend anyone, however, if our community and businesses are to remain competitive; poor tools, policies, and usage by employees need to be addressed. Our press is a vital link in that information chain and I keep getting these basic questions and suggestions that a mid-school student would be able to do!

I was at meetings for our Black History Month special on “Bridging the Digital Divide” yesterday! While a piece in Caribbean Life would be great, the agenda is getting our community up to date with technology… it is more than an event, it is a platform and mission and I stand firmly behind it! That said, I have to address Caribbean Life and the lack of understanding of technology and what seems to be outdated knowledge and protocols!

It bothers me when those in charge with informing are not up to date with the basics. Far more, what is on the horizon, as far as developments in new media tools, formatting, protocols and practices.

These .png files very basic.  Many media companies, actually prefer these  because they are easier to work with.  .Jpegs are lower quality! .Pngs are also transparent, so text can work around them!

The problem is most likely at YOUR end.
The download is basic and opening .png files could be done even in the public library by a 7 year old!

It is either the System Administrator for whatever reason has blocked certain file types.
The staff is unfamiliar with basic media formats and protocol in use today.
The individual downloading does not recognize that this is a basic file format in any image editing software (yes even the pre-installed paint program).
I would suggest that a Gmail Google APPS account be set up that would allow (company name) to access these. There seems to be a need in this office to understand new media and its manipulation.

You would be surprised the number of media companies and businesses taking advantage of Google apps for their business! www.google.com/a

I would also suggest that a review of the company’s policies as they relate to the latest trends and usage of media, for use by both it’s online and offline publications.
If for whatever reason the company chooses to accept media in a particular format that should be stated with any request!

Here are some links to articles.

I am sorry if this affects the inclusion of your article, but I cannot be silent on this situation!

I will gladly come in and show whoever cannot download this file how to do this simple task and/or give a presentation on where media and technology stands today !
Please feel free to share these links with any interested  journalist.
http://podcamptoronto.pbworks.com/MediaArchive2009
Please note this  Upcoming event http://2010.podcamptoronto.com/
Closer to home – FashionCamp NY; the technology unconference will be at
Parsons that weekend.

http://www.journalism20.com/
http://www.publish2.com/ PLEASE CHECK
http://publishing2.com/
the anatomy of a web 2.0 page and conversation or
What can your web page do for you?

The Caribbean Life is not the only paper whose dedication to it’s role I am looking at… they like many are getting the trappings on web 2.0 on their sites!

Not to be able to download a PNG … leave little hope for how these brands  and papers conforms to the social and collaborative aspects of  web 2.0 technology! When print space is limited how are they using the rss feeds or even exploring 2d codes to extend articles!

Let’s not even speak on the issue of business models and content and audience monetization as a part of that picture.

In 2004, I sat with the editor from another local paper who validated not covering Fashion, one of the largest  local employers in our community as there was no valid, commercial value … So the paper still employs a connection, with a serious lack of industry knowledge to cover local and regional fashion! I can just imagine what else is happening in other sectors, health, business, real estate!

When will we get decent business and technology columns?  Ones that are focused on current events and happenings, not pulled from generic online articles or simply press releases reformatted – articles  that are researched or vetted. Articles that are not hidden behind walls or paid for by ad placements! When will our features not be glorified press releases from local companies with the correct connections!

If I cannot hope for the local press to be leaders in covering local news, I have little faith that they would educate the next generation of leaders!!

Next Month Is 28 Squared,
28 Fashion Designers from Africa, Europe, Caribbean and the Us connect to showcase, Sell, Inspire and celebrate their African Heritage while taking on New Media and Technology! Above all though 28 squared seeks to “BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE

The goal is simple to get the 28 designers to sell to a global audience from their show rooms in various countries. Connecting them to Buyers and each other! The concept will put to test many of the theories, New media and technology tools! The ability to connect with,  show and conclude a sale in real time has existed to various degrees to be able to pull together a system that would make it accessible to small businesses at what amounts to a fraction of the cost would have far reaching impact! There are many exploring this, getting these designers to the start line is a challenge, that these are tangibles actual good,s not digital fare , is even more amazing!

I can remember the exact day I committed to technology…  I was watching my son then 12 play on his game-boy and I wanted my fashion on that toy… or something like it! that was Over five years ago! I wanted video, images text. When I started the technology did not exist at an affordable rate at least in the west! Thanks to my brother I was streaming taped video late 2005

Which brings another reason for this… Blacks in Technology, we are not adapting and adopting most importantly maximizing  the technology.

We’ve found that by first identifying your goals , you are better able to make choice… and evaluate whether or not it is WORKING for you!

The gateway  site is in what we call pre alpha www.28squared.com over the next two weeks we will add an online trade capability, as well as video and media features! We are excited , it is safe to say that none of the designers currently have access to the technology!

As I speak to designers It is clear we have more in common than we are different! We launch Feb 1st and run through February 28th… hence the limerick!

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photo Courtesy Kwame Braithwaite. AJASS members and Grandassa Models pose in front of some of the circulars from their multitude of productions up to 1968, the year that this was taken. Artists and photographers, they designed and wrote their own magazines, books and brochures.

NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF  ARTIST

HISTORY OF THE BLACK ARTS MOVEMENT

More on the Movement

The principle of Sankofa Suggest that is it is not until we revisit the past that we can move towards the future. This past January marked  the 45th anniversary of the “Naturally You” series. “Naturally ’62: The Original African Coiffure and Fashion Extravaganza Designed to Restore Our Racial Pride and Standards ”, with the first show held at Harlem’s Purple Manor on January 28, 1962. The goal of the show was to prove to the world that “Black Is Beautiful.” That first show starred Abbey Lincoln as guest singer and commentator for the show, and famed jazz drummer, Max Roach as Abbey’s accompanist on piano, As we celebrate Black history month and prepare for the Jazz of Fashion 2007.  We will be hosting photographer, advocate and historian Kwame Braithwaite, as ell as other who have been part of The last half Century of African Style and the Black Fashion Industry!   The first step one place to access info on our independent business.

Then a quick and the articles from Calabar Magazine (print edition) are now being  uploaded to their new site!

Brooklyn’s Fashion Melting Pot: Who are the African, Caribbean, Asian and Latino Fashion Designers in Brooklyn?

Now I can link to article and share (via the button on the bottom of the pages) them! I am passionate about  creativity and culture and it’s preservation! Sadly many of the business I interviewed are gone! a cultural lost!

These two reminders came at exactly the right time, even as I question why the hell do  I bother! I remember…  things happen because, and, when people “do”.  To those who make things happen…  The Kwame Braithwaite and the Grandassa models, and Atim Otons and Osun, Bayyinah Sabur, … Thank You

For those who sit by wondering what went wrong and Why thing wont “happen”. I’d Like to introduce you To Bayyinah Sabur! I have been sewing since I was very young , 12, 13! As a child I would accompany My mother to the stores and look Through pattern books…  Suddenly one day their were pattern that represented Africa and the many ways magazines tend to describe them! I was young enough to be impressed! During My years oat FIT I spent  Hours in the costume lab, and libraries,little reference or documentation of African fashion and style could be found!  Years later i would meet Bayinnah Sabur On of he First African American To Hav e her patterns carried By a major pattern company! The patterns That spoke to me as a child!

I can ask any young African American designer today about these individuals and they will not know that history! We cannot move forward without first looking Back! Sankofa!

I have completely  redesigned the Brooklyn Fashion Gallery

All our sites were about researching Functionality of technology! Along the way we developed great search ranking and discovered Niche value!  After  five years, it is still a lead search result for any search on Brooklyn Fashion! Rather than let that go I have decided to redefine the Gallery aspect! For now though that will have to wait first February!

Please click on the links and read these segments! The project I undertake next month is more than technology it is more than commerce it is a responsibility to our legacy!

Thinks Happen when we do!

• Kuumba Go Ahead Try Something New today
• It’s 2010 Do You Know Where Your Purpose Is
• UJAMAA Anyone
• UJIMA Is The Only Solution
• Kujichagulia the quest to Define Self-Determination
• Umoja is a Verb
• culture + creativity+ community+ collaboration= COMMERCE

Imani (Faith): To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.

As I read new Years greetings It struck me:- It has been a long time since I have seen so many people so genuinely hopeful! How fitting that this principle is observed at the dawn of a new year and in this instance a new decade! I once heard I believe it was Les Brown say of Faith:-

Faith is stepping off the cliff believing you’ll grow wings on your way down!

That is a powerful statement, stepping forward not knowing if the ground below is solid and cushioned or hard and jagged. Simply believing that you will have the will to safely guide your landing or swerve and avoid disaster! Faith is an act! Faith affects how we act!

On a personal level faith is the engine that propels a lot of what I do and I do a lot! In a recent interview I was asked,

“what are you afraid of?”, “what do you fear?”

“Afraid”, “Fear”,

I have not used those words in six years….

That is not to say there have not been challenges! When I undertake a project I am very aware of the pros and cons. The fact is that I believe that what is to be will be. I take precautions and yes careful notes! The next time around I tackle those things that could not be done the first time! Each project is an opportunity to learn… Each obstacle an opportunity for change! More importantly each time we undertook a project we helped a community artist or business!

Only Two artist have asked how they can help and how I can afford this! This Has Been Totally Unfunded! The truth is that we practice the principles of culture! We do not wait till the end of the year to utter and call them “phases’!                  Living the principles of Faith is a 24/7 process 365(6) days a year!

First of all nothing is free and many have come and accepted the help without  asking how is this possible! At Mobile camp someone from one of the largest online recruitment services asked ..  “How do you make this happen…? How can a little project in Brooklyn tests and sit in on discussions that large companies are challenged by’.”

How can we… COMMUNITY!

Yes there is a ‘we’, I am an instigator, but this has been a community project that is made possible by community! First of all the models; a group of young women who stepped forward, beginning in 2000,  now each has or runs, community projects of their own or helping individual businesses, Stacia, Solo, Nnenko, Tasha, Kellie, Tacha, Max and her sisters, Draysia, to name a few. Many of the images designers use will not be possible but for these ladies or the photographers, Collin, Chris, Lem, Darryl… on behalf of the local  designers…Thank you!

It is Faith that allows me to call on local Businesses to help… Phil from Streets of New York and www.NYRealt411.Com , Atim and her partner from www.calabarimports.com, and www.Calabarmag.com! Moshood Ms Selma www.4wcircle.org Glen from www.DeluxHairGallery.com .  Community Leaders Jitu Weusi, Horace L Morancie and Ms Alma Carrol and Skip Rosebaum! It is with their help that I have been able to access and utilize many of the facilities and services that exist!

Then there are my cohorts Barbara from Sohe Designs, Tacha, Fabian  Who would be there whatever crazy scheme I cooked up to test new technology and challenge theories!

If I act as though I expect their support, I did, and do; faith tells me that the right people will pull through! Faith allows me to speak up when transgressed and apologize when I offend! BTW if I have offended you, I am sorry!

There have been hundreds of artist and designers who I have had the pleasure of working with and discussing, the issues, Will From www.tbaclothing.com , Carla from www.CCW1453.info , Bweela , Michi and Earth! I have known they would pull through despite grumblings or hesitancy. I have faith in them not just as designers but as members of a community! I also understand and expect that designers will each find their niche and in turn affect their community like many have! So whenever I can I willingly share  the news of what others are doing! Sue mission of art, yarn and her domestic violence program, Temitayo’s work in her local community and Ngozi’s events with other artist! They’re just a few and please do not get offended if I did not mention you I only have bit so much space! If you’d like to share what you do contact me via this form with  your email details!

Has my Faith been tested… yes, countless times!

Faith does not guarantee the result you want but rather the result you need!

Sometimes we’re so focused on what we want, we fail to see the message right in front of us! When I decided that a fashion and technology “unconference” was needed I had nothing but faith! At BarcampNYC, Jonathan Berger stepped forward Tony from NWC stepped forward  as did several others,  by September We had a two day event at NYC ITP department!

Faith moves mountains, Opens doors and solves problems!

This year The FashionCamp community is spreading from NY, with FashionCamp LA led by Macala! Faith has a way of expanding your circle, Faith attracts faith! The Barcamp Methodology is a model of Faith that who ever is to be, their will be there.  It is a belief system that has spawned thousands of  gatherings exposing thousands more to technology at a fraction of the cost!

There is no harm in emulating that type of Faith!

Someone once saw Will, Moshood, myself and another designers simply hanging…  you guys “Hang” yes we know each other and enjoy each others company! The reason  you don’t often “see’ us together is simple . We’re really very busy! Each local business is an active part of their community, their Church, school-board and support, local businesses, churches, school-boards! Faith in Community is the common thread that binds us! It is why you will see our businesses in the community, despite the many drawbacks and challenges!

If Nothing Else this community HAS FAITH

If you are viewing this outside of the original blog post  you may need to visit the post to access video and slides!

We had originally planned an all day seminar to jump-start the new year but canceled, frankly there is so much to do we had to pull back! At 10.00am I got the first email with questions, so I guess we’re doing the jump-start after all…  but online!Interested in our workshops please use this form to contactus!

So Where do I start!

I’d suggest get a gmail account Gmail offers free tools through their Gmail accounts or Google apps for business Gmail Google Calendar Google Docs Google Sites

• Calendar- when does product have to be ready? What/when are your industry or sector trade events. when do you need to get material to press?

How do I secure a my web site name!

Remember your to ensure you are not infringing on existing trademarks when choosing your name. if the dot com is not available rethink your choice!

Company Name, Domain name, web Host and email address.

Dreamhost:-I like their simple one-click appurtenance…hint;-  enter promocode 2010STARUPfor $40 off their yearly subscriptions!

Simply click this link

Choose the add Google apps option In Dreamhost and it is automatic

If you are a non profit both google apps and Dreamhost offer  sponsored accounts!

When It comes to office or working  spaces a Real version of this Pop up office would be cool till then, consider a coworking space to cut cost!  I’d recommend New Work City with several membership plans and a coworking  visa (up to 3 complimentary, drop-in days at some spaces) when traveling ! Not sure they offer a virtual address

but

Sunshine Suites our current sponsor has a great offer till January 15th! This space also has a great ambiance! Visit http://tinyurl.com/yj37w2c
or use the promo code Meetup100 to get the $100 discount off your first month!

Where and how can I register my company.

NYC Business Solutions helps businesses start, operate, and expand in New York City.Their services are provided at no cost, regardless of the size or stage of your businesses. Services include:

• Business Courses to teach you skills to reach your business goals, including FastTrac
• Legal Review of Contracts and Leases with our network of lawyers offering pro-bono services
• Financing Assistance to help you identify lenders, package your loan applcation, and increase your chance of receiving a loan
• Incentives to save you money as your business relocates, expands or makes capital improvements
• Navigating Government to help you understand regulations and meet requirements for your business
• Recruiting Employees to provide you access to a ready pool of screened job candidates
• Training Employees to improve the skills of entry-level employees and increase the quality of your business operations
• Selling to Government services that can help you access government contracts

NYC Business Express is offered to assist you with obtaining general license, permit, tax, incentive, and other useful information online.links to search for New York City, State, and Federal information not currently included on NYC Business Express.

Before you do Please take a look at this video as well as the notes below

Presentation notes

Roman Fichman, Esq. practices in the areas of business and technology law. With a background in electrical engineering and media, Roman represents foreign and domestic start-ups and new media companies as well as a variety of other enterprises.

Before becoming an attorney Roman worked for some of the leading television news channels and eventually managed a video production company. Roman’s background in engineering, media and business management gives him a broad understanding of pertinent issues of business law and start-ups.

About New Work City – @nwc
This event will be hosted by New Work City, a community coworking space in Manhattan. New Work City is a gathering spot for a community of like-minded individuals who need somewhere to work that’s both creative and social, and professional and conducive to working. Members use the workspace when they need it, and pay based on usage. That means you could just show up for a day and get to work!

About RunwayProject.org – @runwayproject
Have you been laid off, or otherwise affected by the recession? This can be a great time to reevaluate what you want to do with yourself and get back on your feet better than ever. The Runway Project is a program which features regular events geared toward helping you figure out your next steps. And it’s completely community-driven– all the speakers and educators are members of a thriving community of independent workers in NYC.

About DeMarketPlace @Demarketplace

Our seminars focus on the Product Lifecycle Management! and how to use technology to cut cost and maximize results! If you want to learn more use this form to contact me This is a response to a contact on linked in That I believe needs to be publice! www.demarketplace.com is a teaching site, it is a virtual incubator and network that is used to discuss and show case technology to creatives in our Brooklyn project! Our numbers tells us it is well researched and we have found articles on other sites!  Please notesite answers the question “what can a website do for me! Feel free to browse, but It is best seen in the context of one of our workshops! We are in the process of checking links as many have become obsolete in the 2 1/2 years it has been up!

So what is creativity and how do we honor and celebrate it!

It’s a little after 12 midnight, we’re into 2010, I have been pondering this all day. More importantly I have been trying to find a tactful way to address how I feel on the issue….  too many of us have stopped exercising and nurturing our creativity!

2010 Let’s kiss Apathy goodbye

KISS (Keep It stupid Simple)

I’ve heard that said at countless community and even business meetings! It’s  time to rethink that. Anything with “Stupid” attached to  it need not be a part of any mantra!

It actually takes a lot of creativity and smarts to keep things simple and effective! Creativity requires thought…  it demands deconstructing and restructuring patterns and theories! To do so we need to ask questions! They may be silently expressed to ourselves or discussed with others; but  asking questions is a crucial part of creative process!

So why is the process of questioning now “taboo”. I’ve heard “sorry” so often when someone has a question… why do we apologize for seeking to expand our perception and knowledge!

I’m moving towards 2010 with a mission of nurturing creativity, so I’ll probably touch this topic some more, but I’d start with a simple exercise! Every day, be conscious of something you are doing! From brushing your teeth to your travel route ask yourself…

1. … is there another way to do this?
2. Can I make it better?
3. Can I make it more fun?
4. How can I change this,
5. can I make it more pleasurable or solve a problem?

Creativity is not just about artistic expression, so you do not need to be an artist to exercise your creativity!

Go Ahead

TRY something new each day!

Kuumba

Nia (Purpose): To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

There is a design line whose tag line .is .”It’s time to get back to greatness” Louis Narcisse, who will be one of the designers in our February Lineup, Has over 10 years in the fashion Industry! I recently met Lucy his wife whose purpose and desire is to be a photographer in conflict zones! I have not been able to get this woman out my mind! How does one come to decide that that’s your purpose! Her passion is photography.  Her parents are from areas of conflict, as a mother, she identifies with the challenges of conflict and their effect on children, her compassion has directed her.

What’s your purpose!                                                                                                                 Seeking and finding our individual purpose in life!

I think too much… that’s the danger of being creative…  I think too much. Sometimes you really do not need any other “company” you mind keeps you occupied! I am also critical, and stubborn. I never quite fit in… I worked in a lot of place… for about a year and then moved on! I get bored easily.. I am good with my hands and creative. I am satisfied with who I am, I am not really competitive! I have a temper and a tongue that according to one individual can “cut like a two edge sword”

The point Is who I am my qualities suits my purpose… once I came around to embracing it!

I am not speaking on the purpose you ( or society pressure)  decided you should pursue.  I am speaking about calling life purpose, mission! We all have one! We now it… deep in the moment when we can be true to ourselves we can define it! Instead we focus on “something to fall back on.” I need the insurance ( and yes we do but taking that job that ties your stomach in knots every day will send you to the hospital faster than you can spell relief!

I think therefore I can solve problems other may not even see…I am happy working in solitary confinement; so long hours do not bother me! I am paid to critique products and services before money is wasted on them! My moving from job to job gave me unique skill-sets I never thought I’d need…Ever!, I’m an excellent researcher thanks to a job in field research and understand organizing information thanks to my days at the court of Appeal Library! I am a great teacher, 14 year old can school you in patience and prepare you to deal with adults! I have seen and touched more female bodies than I care to admit! I understand their needs and their anguish! My point is that even when we seem not to be on our path to  purpose we are exactly where we need to be!

When speaking of purpose it is all about a force grater than self! There comes a time when we have to either surrender to it or we fall and fall hard and fail! It is the same for collective purpose as outlined above! We as a community are either going to have to surrender to it or fail!

It’s 2010

Do you know where your purpose is?

NIA!

Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.

I’ll be honest I’m not to sure about this one!

Cooperative Economics goes way beyond collaboration which suggestion working together for individual gain… Cooperative economics suggest putting aside self and working together and splitting the profits! I’m not sure if most of us can do that! It means understanding that everyone’s input has value! Just getting credit for the images that  photographers have helped provide has been a challenge! A designer recently spoke of walking into a local Bedstuy boutique and being assured by the proprietor that they were the designer of an item that was distinctive to her company! WHY/

In a society where being a “mogul” and scoring the big “Catch” seems to be the end goal how can we share info that may jeopardize that chance! I did not post this yesterday; I could not admit that I have little faith in this principle. I am not saying it does not exist, lately, I have seen little of it in practice!

Admittedly I have not been around much; In 2009 I decided to focus on the 80/20; that is put 80% of my effort to the 20% of activity that showed results! I am keeping an eye on Society HAE They seem to be doing some sort of cooperative economics yet I have not  asked Ngozi directly! If so I applaud them! May I also recommend their NYE Bash as a solution!

I also had to ask myself about my responsibility, while I have conducted this voluntary project I abstained from a formal economic platform, I am  the mother of a seventeen year old high school senior. I needed to be home when he arrived, or more correctly to ensure he arrived at home as he should! As he gets ready to graduate I can now look towards a formal entrepreneurial venture!

I have been considering an cooperative  economic format, we’ll see!                          UJAMAA anyone?

“How to …”

Identify the task, the problem and more importantly target the specific goals you want to achieve. Collect information – DO REASEARCH! Organize, Process, Create a strategy and Review! Finally To quote Nike “Just Do It” … it is not going to magically happen!

It  is not reciting , or wishing or passing along the “Message” or attending meetings that Get Things Done… It is a creating a plan , And ACTING on It!

February 1st-28th 2010 We’re Taking On Barriers and Bridging the Digital Divide

28 Vested interest parties
28 New and Emerging technologies that will influence how we trade
28 Design and Lifestyle trends that are will impact us
28 Designers  from Africa,the  Caribbean, Europe and America

That Is not Going To Be an Easy project! But it is needed! The Challenge is getting those of us who gripe and moan to take action! Part of the series on bridging the digital divide is making a connection between culture, creativity, community, collaboration, and how technology can help! These reflections on our cultural beliefs as manifested by Kwanzaa are part of that process!

MAKE THEM OUR OWN- It’s your Business!

For Christians who cannot identify with Kwanzaa note this Love your brother as your self!

You take care of your business in a timely manner, Respect your brothers TIME!

You make sure your bills are paid! You demand an honest dollar for an honest day’s work and refuse to work without compensation… Respect community businesses and pay our artist and crafters

UJIMA TAKES COMMITMENT

Identifying our brother’s and sisters problems:- Ok my focus is fashion designers as I am acutely aware of the problems in that area! But  The simplest way to identify is ask… is their anything I can do to help… or offer, I am involved in Group A or B, how can we help!

Production- The truth is this is an urgent need for most designers I know Resources- Textile  Printers and surface designers,  Small scale manufacturing,                                                                                                                               Space- This is tricky since evey one assumes they can set up a “marketplace’                                                                                                                    Funding/Financing- Simply Put designers would fair better if they are paid the value of their goods or products , Trade not Aid! ! Support local designers and  creative businesses and STOP asking for cheaper prices! However that said  Marketing- I (and other designers) am not your personal secret… Trust me most local designers will not make the same garment for two clients going to the same event! (unless it’s a wedding Party) So you can Share our information with Your colleagues at work and church and on teh job and on your social networks!

These are broad based references to challenges… I have no problem getting into details but this it’ll take too long!

UJIMA IS CHALLENGING

To solve them together

Production- Resources Space- even Marketing can benefit from Collective action! Getting designers to work together though is difficult! Co-working spaces and even Co- production facilities are an option! There isdefinitely a need for funding, designers themselves need to look into our cultural solutions “Sou Sou and Hand” type programs! Groups and organizations need to look into this

UJIMA TAKES INGENUITY

UJIMA; I understand it is second nature to me! I have been taught this since childhood! It a discussion my sister and I recently had we realized we are product of this doctrine! I am in the midst of planning a project that illustrates the subtle difference between Umoja and Ujima! We are pulling together 28 Designers of African descent around from around the world! The designers have a common goal and are working in Unity to create a platform for their businesses that’s Umoja; that’s unity!

When I say we; It’s have a team of local businesses and individuals who each have individual goals but this creates a platform whereby we all can contribute to building  and maintaining our community together and make our brothers’ and sisters’ problems our problems, and to solve them together! That’s Ujima, Collective work and responsibility!

Streets of New York, AzizaPR, Colthom Photograpy, Makeup artist and Stylist  Natacha Jospitre,   have worked with our projects in the past and are committed to community; we now have tech sponsors and even some new individuals! The full list would be made public on January 2^nd! Our aim is to get 28 designers, that’s a little tougher … not impossible, just tougher and it will take the virtues of all the rest principles to pull off! The reward however keeps us focused!                                                                                 Collective Work and Responsibility Takes dedication!

So why do I and others undertake this, I spoke in recent weeks to designers from France, Nigeria, Trinidad, and the right here in America, East cost , west coast and in the South;  We have more in common than separates us! Production, sourcing of fabrics, skills sets; we also have solutions that can help each other! Countries such as Trinidad and Nigeria may have the wherewithal to provide solutions in textiles, and manufacture, The New York Market has access, England has an excellent model for creative enterprise! There is a great fashion and technology movement in more developed countries and new models of business and models of funding are emerging in Europe! We need a show room; one of the local organizations is taking on that challenge! The key is working “together”                                                                                                                                     Collective Work and Responsibility is one of the few choices to a solution!

We do these projects often; we’ve run tests over the last couple of years! It works… when each individual takes responsibility for their part, delivers their best and on time, it is a work of art! We have had instances when some have not pulled their weight! The greatest loss have been theirs as the others have simply stepped up and in so doing increased their skill sets! Too often we’ve had  designers say I’ll wait in the last few months we got calls about a diversity pro gram that we were involved with that has been abandoned… We need to understand that time and opportunity does not always wait for us to get our schedules together!                                                                                          Collective Work and Responsibility is about individual dedication and action!

UJIMA

Dont Just Read this Do Something about  It

In many cases the “Digital Divide” is not necessarily just about the lack of access to technology, but a lack of understanding of it’s potential and a fear of the “unknown!”  Education, workshops and outreach are all part of “BRIDGING THE DIVIDE …
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