Ian Romaker, Author at Art & Design Blabber

10K80 by Ian Romaker August 5, 2021

How to stay focused in school as a new season approaches

Time is precious and of the essence. As you get settled into the educational arena, everyone always chirps in your ear about time management and staying on-task. It is true, staying focused is integral to success. But there are many other things students must keep in mind to be their best selves.

This article will outline exact maneuvers to take, ways to divvy up your time, as well as the best practices to achieve ultimate success.

Know yourself, your worth and your role

First, your class schedule should reflect your preferences.

More times than not, biting the bullet and putting morning classes on your schedule will free up a lot of your time. Then again, you might be a night owl who needs those extra hours in the morning.

Familiarize yourself with your body, your style, and how you most efficiently tackle your tasks. This will help you as a student become your best self.

stay focused — Without a doubt, you are capable of greatness (via Monique Rangell)

Find your ‘why’ and keep seeking

Next, build time for reading. A large bulk of your assignments, participation, and knowledge derives from reading the text.

Do not fake it until you make it because your professor & peers will know as it reflects poorly on your studies. Not only that, reading trains your brain to push past capacity limits. After all, what are you paying thousands of dollars to do?

The answer to the above question is rhetorical. Many people have varying motives when it comes to logical solutions and collegiate time management.

students best selves — Be a testament. Someone firm on their principles and beliefs. (via Linkedin)

It all comes back to the center of self-realization. Sturdy yourself and truly focus on the reason you chose that certain college or university. Maybe the studies are just a formality and the extracurriculars can really bolster your standing?

Whatever the case may be, realize that college is an investment, and wasting your time ensures that the return on that investment will NOT be recouped.

Settle into your sweet spot and stay focused

There are so many different environments where productivity can be accomplished. Libraries, coffee shops, outdoor parks, underground cafes, etc.

Just know that your home should be your sanctuary and other places might serve greater purposes when it comes to completing tasks.

Also, do not be afraid to network. Networking helps you familiarize yourself with others by reinforcing your own particular mentality.

Nothing bad ever arose from extending your social circle to see what fits and what doesn’t for your specific goals.

Not only that, but these encounters may serve as a perspective refresh or lead you to discover new places and/or potential objectives.

Embrace the fact that you are human

Distractions will arise. It is inevitable. Do not be so critical of yourself if you become distracted at times. Rather, embrace it and build blocks into your schedule that allow for brain breaks.

It is especially helpful if you utilize social events that involve something other than altering your mind. This way, you continue the path of productivity while getting your nose out of the books for a breather.

Stay focused and take pride in your work!

All in all, stay organized, stay hungry and push yourself further. The more you put on your plate, the sooner you will understand that we are all elastic in nature. The sooner you will realize how to be your best self as a student.

Slowly expand your responsibilities and push yourself day by day to see how much you can truly conquer.

That way, you are doing what you love, tapping into your soul purpose and making the absolute most of your college experience.

art by Ian Romaker August 2, 2021

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Spudds McKenzie endlessly creates through genuine energy

For those that are visual learners, you have tuned in to the epicenter of Kulture. Our goal is to satiate your thirst for knowledge, awareness, and most importantly show before we tell. Spudds McKenzie, Big Heads designer and multifaceted superstar, is the topic of conversation today.

Photography sits atop the throne as the most pivotal medium for describing a scene without using any words. Without further wording, here is the interview that took place between Spudds McKenzie and the Wordsmith.

big heads — Big heads have become brand entity #1 for Spudds McKenzie (Credit: @kivenchy)

Part of getting my craft in order was the pressure of waking up every day to go film another artist in a whole ‘nother city and it really pushed me.
Spudds McKenzie

Spudds McKenzie hones his craft through shock, awe and differentiation

Kulture Hub: It’s so important to possess a differentiating factor like this big heads thing. What was the first time that you conceptualized using the big heads?

Spudds McKenzie: My friend & I were watching a Ludacris video and thought wouldn’t it be great to start this era again? So I called up DC Young Fly for a favor. When I first moved to Atlanta he lived down the street from me.

I knew this idea would spread like wildfire because he’s animated with a great following and there was a lot of creativity behind it. Big heads display expressional personality traits. Creativity can get you in the room with anybody. It’s just how you go about it.

KH: Has the sports memorabilia platform FatHeads inspired you at all?

SM: They inspire me a lot. When FatHeads noticed how this idea sparked back up they put their foot back on it heavy on social media and were like – I need parts. It’s just a cycle effect and I’m here for it.

spudds mckenzie — Spudds started from the ground level with humility (via @kivenchy)

Creatives are not meant to conform

KH: I saw you said that you have fast and distorted brain wavelengths. Can you tell us more about that and how it contributes to your work?

SM: Some days, I won’t be able to get to sleep so I’ll just get up and start creating. Basically, how it works is it’s like an itch. I can’t scratch it until I really properly do it right.

Sometimes it could be relief from waking up from a dream where I will remember my journey step-by-step and wake up just to create. Things like that move me and bring me closer to other people that think like me.

Spudds McKenzie speaks to the importance of magnifying your abilities and turning heads

KH: Could you give us some keys to brand development for some people who are just beginning?

SM: Shock value. Don’t do something crazy for clout. Do something that stands out so much that people have no other choice but to look. And it doesn’t always have to be digital. Stay tight on your brand as far as promoting it. Get involved, host events, mixers, live meetups.

Anything I can get my hands on as far as creativity that’s where Spudds McKenzie and the brand itself became a big insight.
Spudds McKenzie

KH: What opportunities come about if you juggle multiple tasks?

SM: If you wear many hats branding is going to be easy for you because you’re using each and every one of those hats in that house to market. One way or another, you are going to cross brands!

wiz khalifa and teen stars — Wiz Khalifa, Nick Jonas and Demi Lovato pose amongst professionals in a calm, candid setting (Credit: Spudds McKenzie)

The birth of Spudds McKenzie the artist

KH: So is it Spud or Spudds McKenzie? Take us through that – is that from the Bud Light dog?

SM: Spudds with an S. That name came about when I was around 11 or 12 years old. I got into a fight with some kids in my area and they hit me in the head with a bat that left a big knot on my head. People kept calling me Spudds because it looked like a huge potato grew out of the side of my head.

“After coming off tour I would head to Roswell Mill Waterfall in Georgia to try and take pictures of the simplest things from bumblebees to flowers, landscaping, water.”
Spudds McKenzie

Spudds, ATL native, ignites the youth and provides fuel for those ready to blast off

KH: As a Baltimore to ATL native what do you think of Tyler Perry’s 300-acre soundscape and what might you do if you were able to touch that ground?

SM: I love what he’s doing for the creative community. I love that he opened up his own world like Walt Disney. He created a whole home for actors to live on to create content 25/8.

Tyler Perry is a blueprint. I love what he does for the community and for people like us. I’ve never seen someone open up an entire 300 acre land just for sets. Nobody has done that other than Paramount in L.A. Tyler Perry the G.O.A.T. for that. Seriously.

KH: Do you have any advice for young creatives?

SM: Keep creating. There are no boundaries. Every rule is broken. Don’t think you have to follow everyone’s path or journey to be something. You can make your own lane.

I would suggest that everybody take the time to tap into any issues that may stop you from being creative. Take your time with things. Never stop believing. Never stop creating.

KH: What do you have coming up?

SM: I have more music videos coming with Rico Nasty. I have a big announcement coming up for producers. All I’m going to say is that producer/label is about to be a thing for content creators. As far as another exhibit, that’s on the way as well.

Spudds Mckenzie is primed for even more

After starting with Archive Entertainment, Rich the Kid, Lil Uzi Vert, Playboi Carti, Don Cannon, DJ Drama & Dej Loaf in his early days, it is clear to say Spudds McKenzie has carved his own lane for himself to become the boss.

Ownership will always take precedence. Push yourself, branch out and never stop creating. #10K80

Athletes by Ian Romaker July 28, 2021

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Jason Preston’s climb from journalistic dreams to the NBA Draft

Throughout last season, the story that swept college hoops nation revolved around Ohio University guard Jason Preston. His story is one of determination and always chasing your loftiest dreams. Journalistic aspirations slowly turned to college basketball and NBA realities, and now Preston can find himself on the NBA’s draft board.

After his mother passed away from lung cancer five years ago, Preston’s aunt became his legal guardian due to his father’s absence. Since she lived in Jamaica, Jason began to stay with his mother’s best friend’s son and put in countless hours in the gym.

Humble beginnings with journalistic aspirations

At Boone High School (Orlando, FL) Preston averaged only 2.2 points per game. At 6 feet, 140 pounds, his chance of playing organized basketball at the collegiate level was slim to none. As a matter of fact, Jason began to attend college at UCF for journalism purposes only.

jason preston journalistic aspirations — Jason Preston and Ayo Dosunmu will both be valuable candidates for their respective squads (via Getty Images)

Jason Preston figured he could pursue his journalistic aspirations as he familiarized himself within online circles and heavily favored Detroit Pistons basketball. His mother had a major influence on the Pistons immersion as her favorite team was the 2004 Championship team with Chauncey Billups.

This development proved extremely interesting as many entertainers, athletes, and those who cover sports often find a way to merge their playing and media work. While many artists want to be ballplayers and several athletes want to become artists, where does the journalist fit in?

Well, in this scenario, it looks like they nearly all found a place to intertwine! Preston handles himself like a professional and his avant-garde nature on the court proves that he is certainly an artiste of many sorts.

Basketball Community:
This is a story!!! Definitely worth almost two minutes of watching!!!!!!! Run your race! Be determined! No excuses! Keep working! Wow! #gemsinthegym pic.twitter.com/XZgI7Oz1J4
— Kameo Williams (@gemsinthegym) November 28, 2020

Learn from Jason Preston – take every opportunity and make the most of it

While at UCF, Preston met someone who invited him to an AAU tournament and at that tournament, after a late growth spurt, he clocked in at 6 feet, 4 inches. Following a strong outing, he received an invite from another individual to hoop at Believe Prep Academy in South Carolina.

In prep school, teams are ranked from A-D and Preston landed on the C Team which is essentially rec league talent. After dropping a triple-double, Jason went on to create his own highlight reel and post it on Twitter.

Ohio University point guard Jason Preston…

+ Averaged 2 PPG in high school.

+ Ran on the “C” team in prep school without any college offers from any level.

+ Makes his own highlight tape and posts it on Twitter.

+ Offered by OU.

+ Scores 31 points against #8 Illinois. pic.twitter.com/yS54nIM756
— NEO Zone HS Sports (@NEOZoneHS) November 27, 2020

From there, Ohio University Men’s Basketball discovered his talent and made him a scholarship offer.

Luckily, OU bulked him up by thirty pounds and together they improved his vertical jump as well. He shot 40 percent from 3 point range in the 2020 season, averaged 16.8 PPG with 6.4 RPG and 7.4 APG.

nba draft board — Early last season, two powerhouse candidates squared off in quite the basketball showdown (via NCAA.com)

In early 2020, Preston racked up 31 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds against the number 8 team in the nation, Illinois. Unfortunately, the outcome did not play out in the Bobcats’ favor as Ayo Dosunmu and Illinois scraped out a tough victory at home in Champagne, IL, 77-75.

After stringing together two consistently productive seasons, Jason Preston is certain to receive a draft selection into the NBA on July 29th. He will look up at the NBA draft board and hear his name called, a validation of the hard work he has put in across years and different challenges.

This would make him only the fourth player in this century from the MAC Tournament to do so.

Continuing to shine

After defeating formidable opponent Virginia in the first round of March Madness, Preston and Ohio went on to beat Creighton as well to earn a Sweet 16 bid.

It is clear that Jason can slow the game down to his pace and that he moves with a very old-school type of rhythm. His high IQ, playmaking vision, and meticulous play-running make him an extremely intriguing prospect.

During his Chicago Draft Combine, Preston impressed scouts and proved his ability to adjust in accordance to a faster pace. He signed with Drew Gross, an agent for Roc Nation sports, and is currently ranked 41st out of 100 on ESPN’s Top 100 prospect list.

The NBA draft board shines brightly down on this smart and brave young talent.

Jason Preston’s old-school post-game, slender frame, crucial ball fakes/pump fakes, and pocket passes ensure his roster spot on any NBA team. He recently worked out with the Lakers who hold the 22nd pick.

It is clear that Preston’s game will translate well into the professional arena and this man has the potential to reach a high trajectory slope early on in his career. We wish him the best of luck.

bahamian photographer by Ian Romaker July 21, 2021

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Bahamian photographer Melissa Alcena forges a path of social curiosity

An individual that redefines the way we see and never goes eye for eye, is the luminescent Bahamian photographer Melissa Alcena. Unlike John Cena, you can see all of her work for what it truly is if you navigate here. Much of Alcena’s photography projects encapsulate social curiosity.

This questioning nature has led her to many ends of the Earth through spaces, experiences, and intensely intimate sessions.

A lens full of race, gender, class and parity

Melissa struggled like many young people do – through desk jobs and passion stagnancy. Initially, she took on jobs that paid the bills but did not fill the intellectual bank.

social curiosity photography — A daughter confides in the comfort of her mother amidst natural essence (via Melissa Alcena)

Finally, she took a leap of faith and picked up a camera. In the humble beginning, Alcena photographed unassuming subjects at her local post office.

Recently, she had an image make it to Vogue Italia. Now, how did the Bahamian photographer fill in the gaps? With persistence, reinvention, and reinvigoration.

Major sacrifices made to pursue photography dreams

Alcena immersed herself in Cuban culture for a few months. She attended Sheridan College in Ontario, where she would go on to graduate.

Then, she attempted permanent residency in Canada, but after unsuccessful attempts, finally settled in Nassau, Bahamas. Her driving potential arose from casting print advertisements and giving livelihood to the least likely subjects.

Her ability to transform an ordinary citizen into a wondrous work that demands attention remains unheralded. The social curiosity that Alcena’s photography exudes is indicative of an artist that is comfortable and empathetic in their approach.

Flipping the script from ordinary to extraordinary

Melissa’s work nature flows the smoothest when it is uninterrupted and uninhibited. Her presence combines marvelously with a subject as she inspires the utmost level of openness.

Conversations increase collaboration, and an outline, scope, and preface to any project increases the likelihood that the photo shoot will turn out gloriously.

The way that Melissa culminates elements of vulnerability, definition, re-examination, and serendipity puts her in a class of her own. Her lens steadily rebuilds and reclaims identity by challenging socially dominant constructs.

melissa alcena — A man breaks down his gaze through subversion (via Melissa Alcena)

For instance, her work completely reworks the idea of “the male gaze.” She does so by shattering taboos, utilizing toxic masculinity into positivity, and breaking down male facades or “fronts” put into place as a protection mechanism.

Alcena changes the way we practice looking

It was once said, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” I could not disagree more with this statement as it poses a worldview that exists in two polar opposites. Rather than seeing the world through a black and white lens as in one against the other, it is much more important to view our global stratosphere for what it really is – a multifaceted multiverse.

The world is consistently shapeshifting and evolving into a datasphere. With incoming data moving at hyperspeed – accepted desensitization can be inescapable.

Bahamian photographer Melissa Alcena’s imagery carries purpose, empowerment, and solution. Through adequate and nuanced representation, Melissa puts forth photography that is entirely pure.

Bruh by Ian Romaker July 20, 2021

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Caribbean cryptocurrency: A brand new age is here

As Bitcoin proceeds through regulatory phases, Caribbean nations are casting a wide net in the cryptocurrency space. Nations close to the Caribbean like El Salvador are disruptors in and of themselves. The reason being, they are not waiting around for a mass adoption of Bitcoin. Rather they are driving the trend toward widespread acceptance.

Far from a gimmicky ploy, Bitcoin has granted real solutions for impending problems. Problems such as global economy disillusionment and remittance fees arise in areas that are unbanked meaning their money has no backing. Cryptocurrency plays a role by providing a solid and equal playing ground where all can participate, especially important in the Caribbean today.

Caribbean countries symbolize forward-thinking mechanisms and laid-back luxury

Digital wallet apps have emerged mightily in nearby Caribbean countries such as El Salvador.

In El Salvador, the “Nuevas Ideas” collective proposed Bitcoin adoption in 2017. Clearly, this nation wants to address the deficit in electronic payment infrastructure. They have developed a Bitcoin Beach Wallet which is extremely similar to the Satoshi system.

caribbean cryptocurrency — From a distance, cryptocurrency looks promising. (via Yunus Yildiz)

Bitcoin yields several beneficial outcomes for Caribbean countries

Some opportunities that arise with mobile money solutions include employment and financial inclusion.

Mobile money solutions are high speed, high volume, and often complement the existing financial structure. These cryptocurrencies address Caribbean subregion necessities in the areas of technology and innovation. By nature, these solutions decrease reliance on centralized authorities.

Many people have launched the process of jurisdictional arbitrage. This means they are trying to ditch governmental rule over their actions and finances, altogether. Many have applied for a second passport to avoid capital gains taxes on their crypto holdings.

Since Bitcoin is viewed as property, the IRS has begun to ramp up efforts to track digital currency and offshore assets linked to non-compliant taxpayers. In response, many have gravitated toward citizenship by investment programs in the form of international financial centers that act as tax havens.

What does cryptocurrency offer for the Caribbean?

Certainly, Bitcoin in the Caribbean poses quite the disruptive possibility to the current Fiat system. It allows a bidirectional flow to and from economies via peer-to-peer interconnectivity. It recognizes risk and encourages innovation.

“Fiat money relies on the backing of governments to ensure the acceptance of its currency as legal tender. It has value, in part because Governments require that taxes be paid in legal tender, and this ensures that there will always be a demand for it. Money is thus widely considered to be a creation of governments, but the commercial banks also play an important role in the process of money creation.”
Shiva Bissessar (U.N. ECLAC Studies & Perspectives)

Cryptocurrencies represent inclusivity and proactive engagement. Some Caribbean (or nearby) countries ripe for cryptocurrency picking are Trinidad & Tobago and Suriname.

These countries possess a competitive advantage due to lower existing energy costs in the region due to thriving hydroelectric plants.

caribbean bitcoin — Bitcoin operates on distributed ledger technology. (via Executium)

It would behoove several Caribbean nations to consider a mass adoption of cryptocurrencies. The reason being, it embraces the unbanked and rural communities that could use an update to pick up the pace. It would encourage intra-regional trade creating a circular flow that might sweep throughout countries.

Crypto would help disparate economies diversify and stimulate themselves. It might also reduce the cost of remittance fees for international transfers. There is hardly any downside to cryptocurrency usage. Try it out!

ctrl nft by Ian Romaker July 16, 2021

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Why SZA’s new CTRL NFT is leaving us awestruck

The first lady of Top Dawg Entertainment, SZA, carries quite the story from within. SZA’s debut album, CTRL, let loose all of the entanglements and situationships that have arisen throughout her time spent on this beautiful planet.

SZA’s magnificence radiates shapeshifting aura, blossoming truths, and an uncanny ability to tap into what makes her wholesome.

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SZA’s CTRL NFT brings back raw memories

Recently, SZA teamed up with American Express to release an NFT to commemorate her first album. Previously, these two combined forces to put on quite an incredible show titled, “Unstaged.”

14 in-depth photographs from the event have been released in NFT form at $100 a pop. Cryptocurrency payments are not accepted as AMEX aims to increase accessibility.

Revisiting this album has not been the easiest process for the Top Dawg Entertainment superstar.

Considering the weight that it carries, SZA’s CTRL record proves to be extremely emotional, impactful, and full of gratitude. Immortalizing CTRL in NFT form provides new meaning and causes unpacking from the times it was recorded.

Major players within financial industry support this project

The machine behind this process goes by the name of Fanaply. It has previously sold digital collectibles at Coachella in 2019.

Fanaply is eco-friendly and stores its NFT servers on Ethereum. This specific server represents user-friendly accessibility and a layer 2 solution. Fanaply thrives as a proprietary system that reduces the impact of energy consumption.

Back in 2018, American Express Service Related Travel Co Inc. filed a patent for a blockchain proof-of-payment system. Its unwavering ability to stay on top of things proves that the company is adapting with the times. This patent automation proves that payloads may be encrypted through blockchain nodes.

AMEX refuses to get glossed over in this new era of cryptocurrency

American Express exists upon a larger platform titled the Hyperledger Blockchain Consortium. This ledger-based framework receives oversight from the Linux Foundation.

Together with Linux and ColdBank AMEX released its first cryptocurrency – MetaCoin a few years back. Some of their use cases are titled Hyperledger Sawtooth, Hyperledger Fabric, and Hyperledger Grid.

Above all else, American Express has proved that it is here to embrace the blockchain rather than fall behind and lose business. Its exclusive program provides desirable perks for customers, novelty features, and reward programs. By adding a layer of exclusivity, AMEX hopes to generate trades, increase user interaction, and curate what it likes to call, “souvenir magic.”

Certainly, this company possesses momentum and durability within the online NFT space. It is paving the way for traditional finance firms and becoming even more of a behemoth in financial industry sectors.

brooklyn by Ian Romaker July 13, 2021

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Top Shelf Premium shows out at Lot45, RRR talks the power of performing

Lot 45 garnered quite the range of eclectic individuals on July 10. Under one roof, garnishments, arrangements, apparel, and hip-hop accentuated the aura at Top Shelf Premium’s Supply & Demand showcase in Brooklyn.

Top Shelf Premium put on one hell of a show…

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A post shared by Anthony Bassolino (@antbassolino)

Whether your eye locked in on the myriad of underground merchandise, vinyl records, caricatures, clothing, food, or performances – not much was left unturned.

lot45 music fan — A masked fan parades in style at the Supply & Demand showcase | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

Entering the Lot45 venue, the first stand to your right hoisted towels with three distinct graffiti letters stylized, RRR. And upon arrival, it was easy to see that Top Shelf Premium and their basketball-themed tees moved from shelves to bodies via hand-to-hand bartering.

top shelf premium rrr — It was RRR Season upon entry at Top Shelf Premium’s Supply and Demand event in BK | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

Top Shelf Premium hosts local vendors and more…

chuck strangers lot45 — Rapper Chuck Strangers poses for a picture outside of Lot45 | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

lot45 artist — Sadhugold. fresh off his set | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

Throughout the front half of the venue, people distributed the creative fruits of their labor. Without a doubt, artwork from the likes of 1000 Words, Bernard Rollins, and LAAMS NYC caught the attention of many.

Alexo Dato top shelf premium — Alexo Dato showing off his custom shoes and leatherwork at Lot45 | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

laams NYC lot45 — Team LAAMS NYC pose for a pic in the middle of it all | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

The swirling streetwear connoisseurs intertwined brilliantly with local vendors. The more one tried to solicit – the less their product sold. Rather, genuine energy and illumination via visual attraction reigned supreme.

Real Recognize Real (RRR)

RRR — From left to right: YL, Zoomo, and Starker | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

Certainly, zero substitutes arrive in lieu of the intangibles. The ability to magnetize your presence and create a distinctly identifiable persona cannot be iterated enough.

Clearly, the corridor just beyond the entrance brought together many different individuals from countless walks of life. The ones who discerned themselves from their character on wax flourished mightily.

Starker, YL & Zoomo embodied their primetime 7:30 PM slot on stage. Indubitably, the “Lo Ceasar” combination commanded the attention of all patrons.

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A post shared by Starker Ltd © (@ghostnacekillah)

RRR (Real Recognize Real) presence radiated throughout the establishment from the jump. When they hopped on stage – the thirst for additional songs grew. Concert goers really began to jive and the abundant energy left many yearning for a longer setlist.

Click here to watch our interview with RRR member MID

Immediately following their set, we turned the block with Starker, YL and Zoomo to capture an exhilarating post-game interview. The following conversation took place curbside adjacent to Starker’s BMW.

RRR — From left to right: YL, Zoomo, Starker | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

YL: We literally fresh off stage right now.

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A post shared by YL (@youngwhy)

Kulture Hub: So going right into it. What’s a wallaby rap?

Starker: Wallaby’s are an attitude. You know about Wallaby’s you put them on – you got different sneakers. Wallaby’s are like oh, you on some other shxt. So a Wallaby Rap is when you’re on some other shxt.

Kulture Hub: So with all the different people out there, they say good artists copy great artists steal what does that mean to y’all?

Starker: It means that you got to do what you can to take something that people aren’t familiar with and make it yours.

“There’s nothing in this world that ain’t already been done that’s a fact.”
YL, RRR

YL: Find your own songs. Yo, there’s nothing in this world that ain’t already been done that’s a fact! Add your spin and make it a different collage of shxt that doesn’t already exist. That shxt comes from within…

Kulture Hub: What’s the overseas bag like? I’m not trying to pocketwatch…

YL: That’s some shxt I do off the strength, just like on some love shxt. That’s just like some mixes I do every month type of shxt. Talking about going to Japan and doing the tour out there. Yeah, we definitely got the bag for that and the flight.

But yeah we bout to do it up even crazier next time. Once the shxt really opens up – but that’s really important. We’re trying to go back to Japan right?

Starker: Soon as we can. We’re going back to Japan.

top shelf premium starker — Starker spits out straight heat on stage | Photo Courtesy @img.mos

YL: Hit up London, Paris. Italy.

Kulture Hub: No doubt. What are you all about Zoomo? I know you’re on the boards and the beats.

Zoomo: That’s it – I’m choppin’ it up. Cookin’ it up, living life.

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A post shared by zoomo (@zoomoguy)

Kulture Hub: Man of few words doesn’t need to say much. How does it feel though? Y’all had everybody on stage rocking with you – Definitely, the most heightened energy I’ve seen all night.

YL: I’m gonna say this was probably the most lit show that we’ve had collectively. This is probably the most – we were just saying – like wow we finally like getting love in our city type shit.

That’s the craziest part. People of all ages really… mean we were here since like 12 o’clock – just signing vinyl, CDs, shirts all day. That’s crazy bro because I see it online. But, it’s been a minute since we had an in-person thing so – you already know man – I see it in person.

Kulture Hub: Word to the man from Genius Rob Markman. You know, sometimes people go from writer to artists, artists to writer. What do you think about that versatility?

YL: Sometimes personally for me, it’s hard – you got to really be nice to convince me if you were just like some journalist and you were tryna change variety.

“You got to really be nice. I don’t really jack this halfway shit.“
– YL, RRR

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A post shared by NVF – OUTSIDE (@newvegasfilms)

Kulture Hub: I know y’all don’t like to reveal too much and I respect that but what can we see on tour when can we see yall next in concert?

Zoomo: When you book us.

YL: Find out – I got a show. August 25. Opening up for Eyedress out here in Elsewhere Lounge Bushwick.

Kulture Hub: I ain’t gonna hold y’all too much longer. I got one last question. If there was one prominent significant moment, that was the gleaming moment for y’all what was that like?

Starker: As soon as n*ggas said, “Yo make some f*ckin noise like aaahh.” The first second of the f*ckin set was really locked in – like really in the building.

YL: I was like, ‘oh we got people’s attention!?’

Zoomo: And before the last song Curbcandy – crazy.

The conversation concludes as newfound acquaintances share daps and a genuine moment. Something tells me this won’t be the last time we hear from these cats. For sure the quality of their music is top shelf premium.

Check RRR’s most recent visual for YL’s Slowpoke Rodriguez track below.

Bruh by Ian Romaker July 6, 2021

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What does graffiti artists geotagging their work mean for minted NFTs?

Artists are currently working to mint NFTs through geotagging. ioTex and FOAM are two brands revolutionizing the way artists and workplaces flow.

As technologies continue to advance, humans scramble to adapt. It is almost like the saying, “Humans make plans and God laughs,” in terms of inevitability.

Naturally, the market will take some dips and the volatility combined with environmental risk is much too high at the moment. With that being said, major investors are on board and diligently working to transition to a new proof-of-stake model that requires much less electrical energy consumption.

Location, visual and voice technology will reign supreme in the 21st century. Eventually, ease-of-access will triumph in every situation, from minted NFTs in ioTex to location processing in FOAM.

geotagging iotex nfts — Drop a pin, send your location (via Fakurian Design)

Currently, graffiti artists are beginning to mint NFTs via geotagging. Peep a few examples of companies working to solidify geotagged NFTs within the blockchain.

ioTex utilizes cloud-based consumption for the greater good with Pebble Go

ioT = the internet of things. ioTex has put together a device capable of recording and encrypting data. That way, minted NFTs and other technologies’ location, temperature, air quality, and motion can be monitored.

This could play a key role in healthcare as vaccination temperatures can be pristinely tracked throughout the duration of their journeys.

geotagging mint iotex nfts — **Disestablishmentarianism** – It is only a matter of time (via Fakurian Design)

The thoroughbred item that this company has ponied up major shekels for is called the Pebble Tracker. Reminiscent of Pokemon Go, Pebble Go provides proof-of-presence for shareholders without spoof locations.

FOAM serves at the forefront of resilient alternatives to current maps/location services

This company magnifies every issue and tackles it with ferocity. They hang their hat upon the fact that GPS is a dying medium. Eventually, all tracking and location services will exist within the blockchain.

Given this notion, FOAM represents the future of proof-of-location. It exists as an interdisciplinary workspace that works to support urban entrepreneurs through decentralization.

FOAM relies upon carbon-friendly verification layers at its core

Given the fact that it is latched upon the third-party gatekeeper, Ethereum, this company is already ahead of the eight ball. The reason being, Ethereum is based upon proof-of-stake and not proof-of-work processes.

“If the conception of legitimacy for NFTs can be pulled in a good direction, there is an opportunity to establish a solid channel of funding to artists, charities and others.”
ETH co-Founder Vitalik Buterin

Here are a few other tangible features FOAM has in the vault:

Heatmaps used to depict intensity of data
- (intensity = staked value of a signal)
Radio beacon zones with virtual transport layers
Plasma operatives
Counter factual verification
Byzantine consensus & triangulated positional data

Minted NFT checkpoint validators signify less hacks/breaches, stronger privacy and peace of mind

Whether you like it, own it, comprehend it, or despise it – NFTs are quickly establishing permanence in our rapidly evolving society. Due to their non-invasive nature and reflection of independence, it is inevitable that the blockchain will eventually have us all linked up.

After all – that is the goal, right? To deconstruct the long-broken centralized system of banking? Our system is much like Medusa and there are many snakes that need to be cut before the head can fall and grow new roots.

Being politically correct is overrated – as long as you make sure you were historically correct in the long run. Owning any stake of the decentralized banking system is a wonderful way to do so.

While these terms and phrases might sound foreign, it is good to familiarize yourself early on. Sooner or later, we will all understand ways to privately capture our own data and release it at our own discretion.

Until then, tune in and we will provide all the free game you need about the future! I come in peace, Earthlings!

billy racxx by Ian Romaker July 4, 2021

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PHLOTE helps independent musicians within the cryptocurrency space

While some remain hesitant to adapt, PHLOTE embraces change with a headstrong, user-centric mentality. PHLOTE operates significantly within the cryptocurrency NFT space and does so with integrity.

The value offering it provides bestows knowledge of the space, collaboration, and a proclivity for ownership.

We sat down with some PHLOTE team members to discuss more about the brand’s inception, evolution, and how to get involved with this rapid-paced cryptocurrency space.

PHLOTE CEO Alton J. Washington shares marvelous insights

Kulture Hub: Please tell us all about your brand and what endeavors you have planned.

A.J. Washington: PHLOTE is a decentralized music platform built on blockchain technology to help independent artists. We think the music industry is ripe for this type of disruption. We think that independent artists are in need of the support that this technology provides.

Instead of waiting 9-12 months for a royalty system that’s complex and unreliable – we are able to recoup money right away.
A.J. Washington (CEO, Phlote)

KH: How might the cryptocurrency space benefit the consumer?

A.J.W.: This is a great space to be in because you’re able to not only identify artists early before they’re known, but you can invest in them through their tokens.

This is an inverted model that we’re heading towards where the community is the owner of the platform.

He made more money in a day selling NFT’s then he did all last year through selling beats.
A.J. Washington on PHLOTE collab with Producer Jansport J

KH: In what ways does it take a village to survive the jump from Web2 to Web3?

A.J.W.: Anytime that you are interacting with this platform you are generating benefits that accrue to you. The highest contributors are also the largest owners.

That’s where we’re headed – to a WEB3 also known as blockchain. Essentially how PHLOTE will be organized – we want to be a community and user owned platform, which is what the real true potential of WEB3 is. We’re really excited about exploring this model.

KH: Can you share more information about the PHLOTE Crypto Design Lab?

A.J.W.: Using the design lab teaches artists how to use crypto, how to implement new business models that all creatives must learn how to employ.

Bossing up in the cryptocurrency space

KH: What is the PHLOTE Crypto Accelerator looking like?

A.J.W.: The accelerator is used to accelerate knowledge around the space and familiarity with this technology so that eventually artists come through this program they can build self-sustaining businesses for themselves and as we say – PHLOTE.

KH: Of the artists that you have worked with – who had the smoothest transition into the NFT game?

A.J.W.: One of the first artists we worked with was an independent artist out of Houston named Billy Racxx. He came to us right before he was about to release a project with no crypto knowledge. But he had this concept that he wanted to release and a bunch of assets that traditional artists would not have.

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He had 3D assets, a video game that he was developing, in addition to the music and music-related assets, like cover art and all that stuff. He came to us ready-made for this world because he creates so many different mediums.

KH: Didn’t Billy Racxx create a creature that looked like Samara from The Ring crawling into your screen?

A.J.W.: Yeah, so we made the project called CREATURE as a collaborative project between him and a Russian producer named White Punk. It was a couple creatures that were made that looked like spiders.

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One dude from Memphis showed the big spider on a bridge and people were really engaging with these AR/VR creatures in a pretty interesting way.

KH: Sort of like a hologram?

Anton: Yeah, so when you have the NFT you can essentially point your phone at anything and it shows it in real life as if it were there.

Carving out your space

Basically, PHLOTE knows the ins and outs of the cryptocurrency space.

The company provides valuable information, is inclusive, and gives you the tools needed to become versatile. Tune in and get on the Web3 wave before you fall behind!

art by Ian Romaker June 30, 2021

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Virtual graffiti artist Felipe Pantone sets out to unlock mysteries

Felipe Pantone discovered his magnitude through art and it is quite exquisite. Formerly known as graffiti artist “PANT1,” the virtual artist has transformed himself into one of the most elite international creators.

Start local and conquer global. Felipe serves as a true testament to free will, trial and error, and unlocking the various mysteries that life provides.

virtual graffiti artist — Pantone earned his Fine Arts degree in Valencia, Spain (Via DCIM)

His propensity for the unbeknownst truly separates him and creates vivid cityscapes that stretch the boundaries of art.

His incredible signature motifs appear to be enormous and simply put – it is because they are huge in weight and break the scale with impact.

Felipe Pantone is changing up the genre

There are hardly any words to describe these prisms of neon gradients with geometric patterns and optical jagged grids. The pieces elicit mesmerization, meditation, and downright displacement of light.

Much like anything in life, these portraits exist on a spectrum. Here are the key elements Felipe puts forth.

Dynamism
Sensation of visual vibration
Moire effect – contrasting colors give impression of constant movement

Without a doubt, this graffiti artist has found a way to legally challenge the finite nature of the genre.

The virtual graffiti artist flips the script with configurable, optimizable, and modular gems

Through meditation and conceptualization of digital information these works of art have begun to establish permanence on the blockchain. Check out a few ways in which he bestows brilliance.

Frescoes
Murals
Paintings
Sculptures

The key term surrounding PANT1 masterpieces is tactile merit. He delivers his art with conviction and absolute value. Normally, graffiti represents a temporary state of variance.

With futuristic ideas that transcend the time and space continuum, this contemporary artist reinvents the wheel every time he touches a canvas.

Earth is meant to be conquered

Our world is dynamic. Seeing it through solely two black and white lenses will certainly leave you feeling grey. Perhaps even blue, because the ultimate truth is that we exist within the throws of many different hues.

Recognition of color is a firm realization that we all are different. Yet although we share differences and reach compatible adaptations, we are all equal.

There is no doubt each and every person contains the capability to bring something tangible to the table every single day. Please do.