Art
The new queer film “This Time” is in many ways the more serious current version of “But I’m a Cheerleader” as a young girl runs away from her family who is trying to send her to a conversion camp, to go on a world wind adventure searching for the secrets of her recently deceased elusive father. You will celebrate and cry with Grace as she comes to understand and accept herself and make real friends a long the way. Please read on to learn more about the film, our star Anwen O’Driscoll (Grace), and Jennifer Gibson (Producer and Anne) as they walk us through the importance of “This Time”.
I went into Mai Khoi and the Dissidents' show “Bad Activist” only knowing that she had a crazy back story, was a refugee from Vietnam, and that she was very talented (like everyone Joe’s Pub has!). What I didn’t expect to experience was an incredibly educational, cultural, and art explosion! Mai Khoi walks us through her story, and the story of many Vietnamese who criticize their government, through spoken word, music (most that was sung in Vietnamese with translations on a video above her), costume changes, and visuals.
Seth Glier, known for his diverse talents ranging from mushroom foraging to music production, seamlessly weaves the wonders of the natural world into his lyrics. Whether from his recent album "Mammoth" or the eagerly awaited "EVERYTHING," this Grammy-nominated artist elevates music by addressing themes of climate change and scientific awareness. Outside the studio, Seth Glier has used his platform to spread awareness about this global issue and has collaborated with various organizations such as NRDC. Read on to learn more about Seth Glier.
ALIMA USA's executive director, Charlie Kunzer, and the talented digital artist, Six N. Five, have come together to create the innovative artistic nonprofit campaign, "Breath for All." Through captivating 3D artwork and immersive 8D sound, this campaign aims to raise awareness and support for ALIMA USA's mission of improving medical oxygen access in sub-Saharan Africa. With stunning visuals and peaceful narration, Six N. Five's avant-garde style brings African landscapes to life, creating a backdrop for each meditation. Continue reading as Charlie Kunzer and Six N. Five discuss the inspiration behind "Breath for All" and the importance of medical oxygen access in sub-Saharan Africa. They also highlight the power of art and storytelling to drive impactful change. Through this campaign, they hope to create a world where everyone has the breath they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
If you are a fan of Marianne Faithfull, like I am, then you are drawn to her raspy voice and poetic lyrics that resonate from another time, yet are just as relevant today. I grew up listening to her songs with my father, particularly Lucy Jordan – I have a dark father – but over the years have fallen in love with many of her other songs. So, when I saw that the infamous Justin Vivian Bond was going to perform a Marianne Faithfull tribute evening, called Sex With Strangers, it was an easy sell!
Darius Martin is an LA-based singer-songwriter pioneering a new wave of expansive alt R&B. Inspired by the work of great artists like Micheal Jackson and Stevie Wonder, his pop-laced hooks and island-drenched soundscapes are refreshing and timeless. Darius touches on the damaging effects of abusive relationships with his new single “Sparks Don’t Fly”. This song was created in partnership with the organization Doorways, which provides services to domestic violence survivors. Jejune got the chance to chat with Darius more about his work, inspirations, and advice for anyone in an unhealthy relationship.
K. Osei Williams is the driving force behind the Art is Alive festival, a dynamic event that brings together the community through the power of the arts. Located in Brooklyn, this festival strives to create a sense of unity and connection among its attendees. The festival offers a wide range of offerings, including free classes, workshops, and performances, all with the goal of providing access to artistic expression for all. This year's festival was especially significant as it marked the event's return after a challenging period of pandemic-related disruptions. This shows the festival's commitment to supporting artists' professional development. The event included performances by both youth and professional companies, making it a platform for artists at all stages of their careers. There were also African Diasporic dance workshops and an art showcase celebrating Africa's rich cultural heritage. To support this remarkable festival, readers are encouraged to attend events, explore the festival's website, and contribute through donations to ensure the ongoing success of the programs and initiatives offered by Art is Alive.
The innovative New York artist Mary Mattingly has emerged as a true beacon of environmental consciousness in the art world. With the recent debut of her piece Ebb of a Spring Tide at Socrates Sculpture Park in New York, Mattingly has carved a unique path that seamlessly blends art, activism, and our connection to water. As the world continues to evolve, Mattingly remains at the forefront of championing climate awareness. Her art serves as a reminder that creativity can be a force of change, transcending traditional boundaries and inspiring us to reimagine how we interact with our planet. Continue reading to learn more about Mary Mattingly.
Mashville is a collective of artists from across the globe, coming together with a common goal: destigmatizing conversations about mental health. With the release of their new song "OK", the group is looking to make an impact on music fans who may be struggling. The song and video concept focuses on conversations around suicide and suicidal ideation, featuring an impressive lead vocal performance from member Nova Chez. Through the song, Nova shares her message that it is okay to not be okay and encourages listeners to reach out and talk about the tough things. With their new single, Mashville is continuing to spread its message of support and understanding. With the power of music, they hope to start more dialogue around mental health, as well as open up the conversation for those who may be struggling.
Vertical.Show is a one of a kind show that will tantalize an all ages audience this June 8, 9, 10, and 11th, at the Great Star Theater in San Francisco, CA., with artistic and never seen before pole dancing and aerial arts performances that you won't want to miss! There will be a total of five shows: three being for all ages, one will showcase our youth athletes who will blow your mind (June 11th), and there will be an after dark show (June 10th at 9:30pm) for those feeling a bit more bold.
More than ever, it is important to consider how human activity affects the environment. Chris Jordan is an activist who uses his powerful images that capture human activity to advocate for awareness. As an artist who immerses himself in his work, he demonstrates the power of photography by employing it to amplify emotion and change the negative connotation of the environmental crisis into one that advocates a positive attitude. Continue reading to learn more about Chris Jordan's artistic vision!
The fight against injustices continues to this day, and Mario Torero, the artist who expresses moving messages through his work, continues to disseminate his beliefs through a movement known as Artivism. As a muralist, he embraces and explores a community's history, uses the knowledge, and combines both traditional and current customs to produce colorful murals that may be found in numerous neighborhoods across America. He continues to demonstrate to the world the influence and power of art on those who witness it. Read on to learn more about Mario Torero!
The young musician, She Is Jules, shares insight on her newest single “Do Therapists?”, which questions if our therapists need therapists too. Starting her musical career off at a young age, Jules opened up about navigating her music while battling Crohn’s Disease. Jejune got the chance to chat with her about how she helps raise money for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation along with advice she has for anyone going through the same thing. Keep reading to learn about the inspiration behind her music and how she stays grounded through it all.
Jenny Kendler makes the invisible visible through her elaborate initiatives that bring to light the climate crisis we are facing. As a long-time advocate, Jenny Kendler has persisted in standing up for her beliefs and is deeply passionate about using her work to communicate her message to people from all walks of life. Her unique artistic approach explores beyond the established and continues to demonstrate the purest form of beauty. Her optimism and influence extend beyond her work, as she works with organizations to support local artists and advocate for change.
The planet and it’s people are constantly changing, and Diane Burko is helping us bear witness to it through her unique and beautiful way to documenting our world and climate change in her paintings and photographs. As a life long environmentalist and and advocate for indigenous rights, Diane encourages others to take in the world around us and work toward protecting it together. Her inspirational "time-based media" and collaboration with scientists to analyze and disseminate information has helped to educate viewers about the changes we are seeing on this planet. And while it might feel like a tough battle, Diane feels so much hope for the younger generations and their passion for our planet. Please read on to find out more about Diane Burko and how she sees the world.
Power Rocker Annabel Lee gets candid with Jejune Magazine! In this exclusive interview with the star, we delve deeper into understanding who Annabel really is and where her music comes from. Obsessed with Annabel’s new album ‘Mother’s Hammer’ we ask her to expand on the meaning of a few of her songs and bond over our mutual appreciation for Patti Smith. Apart from being a talented musician, she also works with organizations towards upholding and fighting for civil rights. Read on to learn more about Annabel Lee!
I have had the pleasure to see a few artists a Joe’s Pub now, but none were so intimate as coming to see Crys Matthews sit down and sing with her audience. The way she spoke and sang to her crowd you felt like you were sitting in a living room with her taking a break from drawing up the latest set of signs for your next protest together.
Natisa Gogol is a promising ray of hope! Hailing from war-stricken Ukraine, her music is inspired by the grief faced due to the war. She wishes for her audience to cherish their present and bring to light the casualties faced by the people of Ukraine. In support of this, she has lent a helping hand to organizations that aim to make the refugee life simpler, providing aid and assistance, which is the need of the hour. Read on to get up close and personal with Natisa Gogol!
I had never seen Jackie Hoffman perform live before, but I have enjoyed her characters on TV and films, most recently Uma Heller in Only Murders in the Building. She is often tight casted to play a mouthy older jewish woman, which is basically her personality — so it is a perfect match! What I wasn’t as familiar with is her Broadway background and her solo shows! This evening I learned that Jackie Hoffman can sing!!
Damien D Smith is a multi-talented artist, actor, director, and activist who uses his art form to create awareness and initiate conversations around a range of social issues. He is a passionate advocate for social justice and has dedicated his life to making a difference in the lives of those who are historically underserved and undervalued. His work has been widely acclaimed and awarded due to his dedication to sparking awareness on human rights. His award-winning directorial projects, are Target: St. Louis, Detangling The South, and Free To Be Free. These projects have been widely acclaimed and awarded, and have made a huge impact on the world. Jejune is excited to put Damien D. Smith on your radar and explore his inspiring commitment to making the world a better place.
In celebration of Women’s History Month Joe’s Pub has an amazing cast of women coming to their stage! I had the pleasure to watch one of their monthly shows, Generation Women. This heartwarming show of female empowerment will have the audience laughing and crying in their seats in no time!
You may know Raphael Sbarge as Jiminy Cricket from Once Upon a Time, but his role as a conscience has expanded over the years as he has added directing to his skill set. Now it can be said he is “creating content with a conscience.” He has directed several films, short stories, and, most recently, documentaries — with an ever increasing drive to spread awareness of social and environmental issues within several different communities. Jejune got a chance to talk to him about his Emmy nomination, new film Only in Theaters, and his latest mini-series 10 Days In Watts, among other topics. Please read on!
Scotland based Rock and Roll band, Shambolics, will have you falling in love with their classic rock vibe. Inspired by The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, The Smiths, and more, their music is all kinds of dreamy mixed with a clever play between mellow acoustic tones and heavy rock sounds characteristic of a rock band. The band loves touring and playing live gigs, which includes a yearly performance to raise funds for the Kirkcaldy Foodbank. With their latest single ‘Living in Shadows’ out now, Jejune had the pleasure to interview band member Darren Forbes. Please read on to learn more about this great band.
Queer Youth Animated is a new project from the Future Perfect Project. The team consists of Celeste Lecesne, Ryan Amador, Jon Wan, Julie Novak, and Emma Jane, based out of New York City, Kingston and Los Angeles. The project was initiated with the aim of encouraging youth belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community to share their stories in hopes of inspiring other members. The show features 2 seasons that start with heart warming stories in the United States and then expand to stories around the world. Bringing to light people’s stories from various walks of life, the show has inspired many to share their own journeys. Let Jejune Magazine take you through this interesting interview with the team at Future Perfect Project, and go check out what some of these inspiring kids have to say!
Stefano May’s music is nothing short of moving. His musical acumen coupled with his soul touching songwriting makes his songs a must listen! Born in Italy, Stefano started growing as a musician from the age of seven, when he received formal training, and was popular on Italian television. As Stefano’s popularity grew, he was able to work with famed producers like Chico Bennett on songs like ‘Crazy’, which is about the dark corners of devotion. His new single ‘Hope It Will Remind You’ was produced in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, a cause close to his heart. Through this song, he hopes to bring awareness to the disease and use music to help patients heal better. Read on to know more about Stefano May and his heart wrenching music.
Laura Bryna is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and children’s book author. For Laura music and writing is her way of expressing love, joy, and pain. She talks about her new illustrated Children’s book ’The Christmas Tradition" and using birds and giving back as her inspiration for it. Read on to know more and maybe start up this tradition yourself!
Actor cum writer, Xavi de Guzman has a flair for bringing people together through shared experiences — his acting, book ‘Peeled Fruit’, his Non Profit ‘The Play On Foundation’, and through food. Xavi’s book is a sweet culmination of his childhood memories and the immigrant experience. It will leave you thinking of family, community, and a little hungry. Let Jejune Magazine introduce you to the writer that is Xavi de Guzman.
Mikalah Gordon is so much more than an American Idol hit! Having gained recognition through the show, she has worked her way up to where she is right now, a true star! From singing to comedy, Mikalah dabbles in a little bit of everything and she is nothing short of killing it. But what really inspires us here at Jejune is her passionate for women and LGBTQ rights, which can easily be seen in her songs and her work on Channel Q. Let Jejune Magazine acquaint you with this sensation as you read more about her life, passions, work, and so much more.
Do you live in the San Francisco area? If so, I have wonderful news for you!! The Vertical Show is returning to the Great Star Theatre in Chinatown San Francisco from April 4-21st. There will be shows every Thursday-Sunday for three weekends. You can buy your tickets here (promo code: kira).