Ian Romaker, Author at Art & Design Blabber

iyok stylez by Ian Romaker March 23, 2021

Wardrobe stylist Malaika Iyok is emerging as a multifaceted star

When it comes to sustainable fashion, the element that generates the most longevity is genuine energy. Being personable, making connections, and truly wanting to see others flourish helps any wardrobe stylist succeed.

Malaika Iyok fulfills her role as wardrobe stylist and designer with a calm and dedicated mindset. She is calm when getting to know one’s preferences, but goes crazy when it comes to piecing an outfit together. Malaika has been the owner and wardrobe stylist of Iyok Styles since 2020.

We took a moment to see what the talented wardrobe stylist is up to. And to create a dialogue about her respective brand efforts.

Learning more about wardrobe stylist Malaika Iyok

Kulture Hub: Who are you? What’s your brand ? Where are you from ?

Malaika Iyok: I just officially made my website so that you can go online and book my services or hit me up in the DMs for collabs. I do wardrobe styling which is everything from editorial, photoshoots, personal styling, closet cleanses – anything that is wardrobe worthy.

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A post shared by M A L A I K A I Y O K . ™ (@malaikaiyok)

I also do a lot of creative directing – I genuinely like visuals so creative directing goes hand in hand with wardrobe styling which gets me into interior design. I’m really into visuals so wardrobe styling, creative styling everything flows from there.

Born and raised in 518, I was born in Albany Med, lived in Albany for a little bit. I grew up in Latham and after high school, I moved to literally every city in the 518 except for Saratoga. I like Albany.

KH: Where are you from origin wise?

Iyok: I am Cameroonian and Tanzanian American. Dad from Cameroon, mom from Tanzania.

Malaika focuses on increasing self-confidence through expression

KH: How does your brand contribute to the concept of Ballin on a Budget?

Iyok: Since I am young, my budget is not high, so I could literally find coupons anywhere especially online. There’s no way I am paying full price for anything. I think the most important thing is making sure that you’re buying items that coordinate with your closet.

So focus on the essentials – if you’re buying a T-shirt, know that t-shirt is about to go with like three different pairs of pants. Maximize your closet and then you’re also cutting down on how much you’re buying so that’s a way to maintain your budget as well.

Tips from the forever fly gal

KH: For someone that wants to get fly, but doesn’t really know how… Take us through the process of where you come in and how you can affect that change.

Iyok: First off, I will ask you an array of questions just to get to know who you are. Because your fly and my fly are going to be different based on who you are internally.

I really like to get to know my clients and get to know the person I am styling and figure out what is truly fly to them. My fly is everything especially loud but someone else’s fly could be subtle in the sleekest, sexy way.
Malaika Iyok

wardrobe stylist — Woman openly increases her peace while enjoying the outdoors

Iyok: Whatever way they want to do it – it’s really a personal thing. Styling to me and what I help others with is making it a personal expression of yourself at all times and increasing your vibration.

So that way you walk out and whatever you’re wearing is fly because you feel like it’s fly and you feel like your greatest self in the spiritual realm of how my process works.

Loving the skin you’re in

KH: How do you incorporate body positivity into a styling session?

Iyok: I definitely have the knowledge of what works with a lot of men and women’s bodies in all types. I think fashion focuses on people who are very slender and people who have a certain type of build. I am very flexible and I understand how clothes are going to hug you or how they should just be loose sometimes.

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A post shared by I Y O K ♚ S T Y L E Z (@iyokstylez)

So, in the realm of body positivity it’s important to make you feel comfortable in your body and where you are right now. I’m always breathing positivity into people no matter where you are in your journey – this is where you are and this is how you are going to look great in that.

KH: What type of opportunities has the collaboration with Dwtn Lush afforded your brand? How is that going?

Iyok: I’ve created my entire career off of meeting creatives. I never leave anybody out and I try to meet as many people as I can. I network my ass off but to me, I don’t consider it networking I just like people.

So I go around and meet a bunch of people, give them good energy and they give it back in opportune ways. It’s really a blessing to be honest, but just be open and genuine to people so they can be open and genuine to you. Those are the ways that I have gotten a lot of work.

Putting on for the city as a wardrobe stylist

KH: You made a magazine, too. What was that like?

Iyok: That was amazing. I felt like I wanted to do something really big for my editorial portfolio. In my mind, I was like if I was going to give this portfolio to a magazine – wouldn’t they want to see what it was like if it was in a magazine?

So I figured I would just make one. That week went by – I hit up all the creatives I know and we made it happen. That’s what’s so beautiful about having community, is that people really come together.

I’m super conscious sometimes so with making this magazine I wanted to do something and say something. So I incorporated that part and curated a small platform to put other creatives on.

So we mixed and matched all these things to make a beautiful masterpiece of creatives. As long as it’s giving the right messages with the right images, it is just the right formula that will work out much better.

KH: Tapping into the workplace – how can bringing spice to the workplace through your wardrobe increase your chances at promotion?

Iyok: I think if you bring some spice to your workplace by your wardrobe it will increase your confidence as a person and high vibrant frequency. People are going to see that and start paying attention to you and think “I want to hear what he/she has to say.”

High confidence and high energy automatically get the attention of the higher-ups in your work community.

Raven Symone’s brand influence

KH: How has the show, “That’s So Raven” contributed to your vision as a brand?

Iyok: You know what’s crazy? I was just talking about this show while I was on vacation in Miami. I relate to Raven as a person because that’s my inner brain.

I think the normalcy that it brought to having visions resonated with me as a child because I had a big imagination. It showed me that I can be a crazy calm person who has visions.
Malaika Iyok

Raven receives one of her signature visions which influenced so many on their journeys.

KH: What is sustainable style, and why be basic when you could be extra?

Iyok: Sustainable style is being mindful about what you’re buying and if you really truly need it. I think sustainable style deals with minimizes [sic] the way that you shop. It is also about buying quality articles of clothing that last longer and don’t end up being thrown away in landfills. Being mindful of your purchases helps the world and your budget.

Why be basic when can you be extra is the idea that why would you try to conform to things when you can do your own thing?
Malaika Iyok

KH: Definitely – people are so concerned with what other people think – but those things don’t matter. We are who we are and we have to embody our own.

Iyok: Essence at the end of the day. I think those are the things that make individuals so influential. To embrace your uniqueness, your flaws, and where you are in your journey will always make you a better person.

In reflection, wardrobe stylist Malaika Iyok is just getting started

We thank the ultra-talented wardrobe stylist Malaika for her time. And we urge anyone reading this to help support her sustainability efforts.

Iyok Stylez is just getting started, and we can’t wait to see what Malaika and her brand does next. Support your local wardrobe stylists; the world always needs more creativity.

alexandra grounds by Ian Romaker March 23, 2021

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Women in crypto pushing for empowerment through blockchain technology

Everyone is in search of the breakaway crypto that affects all software. The NFT space has provided quite the getaway for some investors, and women in crypto are no exception.

Many artists are clamoring to the newfound space and doing whatever they can to get their pieces minted in hopes of some quick loot. We sat down with Alexandra Grounds – a prolific visual artist, and woman in the crypto world, to get her take on the entire movement.

NEW YORK, NY – Alexandra Houx Grounds attends Delusions Of The Wild Solo Exhibition By Alexandra Houx Grounds at 213 Bowery on October 17, 2019 in New York. (Photo by Paul Bruinooge/PMC/PMC)

Alexandra’s stance on the NFT world is similar to many of ours’: “what in the world is it and just how volatile is the market?”

Considering the fact that ownership only occurs in certain contexts, this woman in crypto is making sure that the NFT market is sturdy enough. This way she would be to be able to sell the work that she has spent much of her life developing confidently.

NEW YORK, NY – Atmosphere at Delusions Of The Wild Solo Exhibition By Alexandra Houx Grounds at 213 Bowery on October 17, 2019 in New York. (Photo by Paul Bruinooge/PMC)

Rather than trying to liquidate all of her tireless efforts, she is maintaining patience and ensuring that all proper protocols are completed prior to committing to the NFT art space.

Alexandra Grounds is a visual artist focused on oil paintings from Scottsdale AZ. She has been stationed in a New York studio for the past few years. She studies visual art at Columbia University and has had her work displayed at the WTC and in galleries countrywide.

Her work focuses on femininity and the over-sexualization of women. She enjoys the large-scale sculpture – 8×6 feet being her favorite canvas with paintings that serve up photorealism and pop art mixtures.

Dipping her toes in the NFT wavepool…

Kulture Hub: What has your experience been like selling your artwork as an NFT digital asset?

Alexandra Grounds: I’m in the beginning phases of creating a digital gallery. There I will release a couple of different drops of my work. Space is totally taking off right now – I feel like I’m in the middle of an art movement.

There is a ton of clutter in the space as everyone is making everything in NFT right now. I think when this bubble ends what is going to be left is actual real quality work that people have created.

AHG symbolizes the sweetness of a woman in her “Queen B” 48″x72″ portrait (2018)

I think NFT creates a new movement that puts the agency back into the artist’s hands. Before it was just going through art galleries and having a middleman totally eliminates that. Not everyone has the ability to walk into an art gallery and purchase something whereas NFTs open that space.

The angle that I love about it – the reason that I am interested in this — is the merging of the physical and the digital. I think that’s a pretty incredible concept with visual arts that hasn’t been possible before.
Alexandra Grounds

So I’m actually taking NFCs and putting them into the paintings themselves. They will go underneath the paint so that when you scan the QR code it blows the painting up into the digital world.

[On NFT platforms] I am considering Open Sea. Charged Particles is the new one that is interesting. A lot of artists on there are pushing boundaries which is my goal. I’m not totally sure yet.

Everyone wants their 15 minutes of fame. But Alexandra Grounds is in it for the long game

KH: How do you think the NFT space has flipped the attention economics? How has the standpoint flipped in the NFT space in terms of garnering attention?

AG: These prices have never been seen before. The auctions are going insane and a lot of this is people trying to money grab and make as much cash as they can. I think will cause it to crash at some point.

women in crypto — NEW YORK, NY – Atmosphere at Delusions Of The Wild Solo Exhibition By Alexandra Houx Grounds at 213 Bowery on October 17, 2019 in New York. (Photo by Paul Bruinooge/PMC)

Visual art specifically has a value that rises steadily throughout the years. That’s how it has always worked. Right now, there are no rules and things are sort of popping off everywhere.

On the other hand, it is interesting because it’s bringing attention to artists. People that have never had this much attention before and digital art has never been in the spotlight like it is. I think that they deserve the spotlight but I don’t know if it is going to last in the same way that it is right now.

I think for artists that are talented and making cool stuff that is a great thing and it is bringing attention to these people and hopefully, that lasts.
Alexandra Grounds

Alexandra’s work drives home the details with vigilance and nuance

KH: How does your work reshape the familiar contexts and concepts surrounding hypersexualisation of women in male-dominated spaces?

AG: In my experience, a lot of my work is reflective of myself, my friends and my own life experiences. I think embracing sexuality and femininity in a lot of women is what makes them feel empowered.

Some of my work is very direct so I try to embrace the bold side of empowerment. If a woman feels sexy and powerful that is an incredible thing so I’m trying to highlight that.

AG gets straight to the point about women in crypto

KH: I think that’s the only way to do it is to be direct in terms of the fact that the female body is an artwork. Yet, it can be seen as taboo in nature.

But, at the same time, we are so desensitized to war and violence and things that are much worse than the nude female body. So, we really appreciate what you’re doing over there.

AG: Thank you very much, it’s funny you say that. I am unable to post my work on some of my social media platforms and that in and of itself is a problem.

“That means the social channels are trying to silence the people who are embracing that and trying to bring it forward in a positive way so a lot of work has to be done.”
Alexandra Grounds

Whether you like them or not or whether you find them tasteful or not – you can’t ignore them. So it’s always going to be a topic that we talk about, because it’s the human body it is always going to be there.

The way that society talks about that is a shifting trend. Still, it will always be an issue that is spoken about. Inevitably, humans are drawn to anatomy so it will always be something that people talk about.

This young woman strives to make a difference for women in crypto

KH: How does your work symbolize limitless power?

AG: First of all, the most powerful woman that I know is who I try to put into the work. Also, women’s stories I want to capture and share, like the stances they are in or how they’re taking something that is looked down upon so often and fully embracing it. Being like this is who I am. This makes me feel strong.

The limitless power comes from within and how that person embraces who they are and uses that for themselves and the people around them.
Alexandra Grounds

I see myself as someone who is a catalyst for that. I’m just trying to capture power within a painting whether it be the glimpse of an eye or the stance of a woman. That is something that I always strive to do.

The importance of redefining roles and the significance of the male gaze

AG: The male gaze is the center of why I paint. Women have always dealt with the male gaze and I am trying to question whether or not women actually want to completely diminish or if they ever will be able to diminish it.

That is part of what feminists are trying to do. Shed light on the other side: like what is the female gaze? But, women sometimes find empowerment from the male gaze. So I am just trying to bring that up and talk about it more than anyone else is.

In conclusion…

Kulture Hub is thankful for Alexandra Grounds’ time. We strive to break the mold on traditional topics and provide the content that makes a difference.

We hope you enjoyed this NFT art space conversation. And, that you were able to learn directly from a woman in the crypto space and conclude a few nifty takeaways in the meantime.

Continue to follow and support Alexandra Grounds on her website here.

alejandra cervera hauser by Ian Romaker March 22, 2021

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Women Mexican photographers with ten toes firmly on the ground

Everyone demands serenity sometimes. We all desire an escape of some sort and our internal mechanisms require regulation and recalibration. For some, that means the beach or a cruise, but for women Mexican photographers that sometimes means photography in real-time.

Whatever it is, just know that we are here to appreciate the simple nature of life. The intricate beauty that makes our existence so incredibly profound and records that evidence in history.

Thus, let’s appreciate some legendary women Mexican photographers with their boots on the soil in the beautiful country of Mexico.

Graciela Iturbide

Graciela challenges conventions with determination and zeal. This provocateur Mexican photographer studied under the legendary photographer Alvarez Bravo. So, like the master, she draws major influence from the Mexican renaissances.

Iturbide tends to highlight the transition between traditional ways. However, she does not disregards the ways by which capitalism has shape-shifted our realities. She is the only photographer that has gained access to shoot Frida Kahlo’s bathroom after her untimely passing.

And, her work also touches upon the woman as a dignified being. She consistently amplifies the art scene with passion, discipline and cooperation toward equality.

Cristina Kahlo

Kahlo comes from art royalty. And, being a recognized Mexican photographer, she reinvents the definition of interpretation.

Her family rewrote the artistic canon within Mexico and she is no different. Cristina does so with thorough, dynamic observation. Plus, she recognizes the historiography of her surroundings.

Posthispánico MX by Cristina Kahlo (2019)

Kahlo reduces reality in order to seize the specific moment at hand. Hence, she has taken it as her duty to make the image speak and she always provides small contextual clues that lead the viewer in the proper direction.

Furthermore, she preserves ancestral art traditions by documenting ceremonial centers, coetaneous humans, and abstract rituals. Making her work a testament to perseverance.

Also, she displays a magnificent ability to channel pain into profound abstract art.

Cecy Young

This outstanding Mexican photographer highlights fashion and trendiness within her country.

Cecy Young is a Mexican-born artist who has fully immersed herself within the fashion scene. She captures appealing visuals through feminine and eccentric lens.

Cecy Young snaps up a snazzy silhouette in a vibrant setting (via Cecy Young)

In essence, she carves out a new lane for herself with the intention to highlight the collision between real and imaginary.

And, by doing so, she encompasses new compositions, colors, and deals with the religion and superstition that cloaks much of Mexico.

Lourdes Almeida

This Mexican photographer is recognized for her vigilant eyes in the sky. Yet, her name is also synonymous with classic photography. Lourdes deals with traditionalism in the classiest sense.

However, much of her work describes self-fashioning objects and how they convey power within the subjects she encapsulates. For example, the rebozo (shawl) is a staple in Mexican culture made popular by the late, Frida Kahlo.

mexican photographers — Escapism at its finest in mosaic form by Lourdes Almeida

Almeida creates inventive profiles that represent the range of differences and ethnic signifiers among Mexican citizens. She incorporates communal formalism, solidarity, contemporary issues in her illuminatory catalog. Her work personifies resonance, vigilance, and flourishment.

Alejandra Cervera Hauser

Alejandra Cervera Hauser is an outstanding Mexican photographer that works with a rhythm of her own. In fact, her work takes you on quite the journey in every photograph.

Her work unleashes women in showcased spaces that have never quite been imagined as such before. A lot of her captures provide movie still imagery vibes that organically exhibit women in fresh and exciting spaces.

However, she is not a fan of photoshop.

As much as she is shocked by perfection, she respects the sheer wonder and awe that comes from true photography. Not to mention, her unparalleled depth of the subject symbolizes power and makes you stop in real-time to truly appreciate art.

Mexican photographers capturing Mexican culture

All of these artists deal with Mexican cultures, religious entrenchment, fashion, and escapist forays in one way or another. We are here for their continued efforts and support their cause in any way possible.

So, please keep giving of yourself unto others and always strive to find what makes you wholesome.

10K80 by Ian Romaker March 16, 2021

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The birth of a superstar: Carmelo on the Syracuse Orange

Carmelo Anthony’s 2003 Syracuse team defeated 13-seeded Manhattan en route to one of the most brilliant all-encompassing performances of March Mayhem. The Syracuse Orange find themselves in the March Madness tournament again, but can they reinspire what the ’03 team accomplished?

G-Mac, Hakim & Carmelo was one of the illest trios of the new millennium. So let’s take a look back at this iconic squad in all their glorious splendor.

carmelo syracuse — Melo Been Ahead of his Time – Just Check the 2 Toned Jersey (Credit: Anou Enright)

Syracuse took the tournament by perfect storm

Luck is what happens when opportunity meshes perfectly with preparation. All three are required in order to maintain longevity in the NCAA tournament gauntlet.

We really witnessed an elite class of talent around the turn of the new century with the likes of Carmelo, Tracy McGrady, Kobe, LeBron, KG and more.

Notice, that only one of those high-caliber stars went on to play college hoops. And that was where Carmelo made people remember his name with the Syracuse Orange.

Melo breaks the mold

That man Carmelo Anthony had the single-handedly most impressive one-and-done career.

Before the one-and-done rule went into effect, Melo knew he was going to test the collegiate stage for at least two semesters. And boy did he ever.

Carmelo joins legendary company on draft night after notching 22 double-doubles while in college (Credit: NBA)

The title win is impressive – no doubt – but the way in which he willed his team to victory night in and night out provided even more entertainment value.

There will never be another Carmelo and ’03 Syracuse Orange squad

Carmelo’s ability to beat a defender off the dribble, second jump rebound and recover after missed shots is uncanny. Or, he might just jab step you into submission to create space for a knockdown jumper.

Regardless, the skill magnitude he possessed as a freshman in college might be the highest of all-time. Not only that, but Syracuse was led by two freshmen during a time where many players would stay until graduation to improve their skills entirely.

What Carmelo did for Central NY and the Syracuse program as a whole cannot be understated. (Credit: Pinterest)

The Melo-led Orangemen will go down in history as one of the most improbable victors of any March Madness saga. That ‘03 team brought the championship home to the Carrier Dome and provided memories that will last a lifetime for all of New York.

diana kunst by Ian Romaker March 11, 2021

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Women music video directors you haven’t heard of yet

In this article, we will look at some of the hottest women music video directors out there who are changing the game.

Their willingness to learn, sacrifice and gain expertise at a low cost will almost always result in a major payday and provide incredible skills and lessons along the way.

Those who provide the intangibles reap the rewards. There are several components in any profession that do not require any talent, whatsoever. The ones who succeed to the fullest combine the hustle elements with their gifted abilities to create the perfect value storm.

Karena Evans, women music video director and hip-hop royalty

Karena Evans is a Hype Williams descendant due to the fact that she studied under Director X.

Julien Christian Lutz (Dir. X) worked with Karena on an internship basis and gave her a chance after she proposed her idea for the $0 music video.

It certainly paid dividends as Karena is one of the most dynamic women music video directors in the game today.

Karena Evans in the lab (via @karenaevans)

In addition, she pushes the boundaries of modern cinematography. She increases female representation by inhabiting the space with strength, fresh perspective, and a knack for the elevation of women.

Evans also directed Drake’s Nice for What video & SZA’s short film, Garden

Not to mention that one of her videos breaks the mold with refreshing outlooks and truly different conceptual approaches.

Karena works diligently to understand the brands and personalities involved to cater the visuals in a way that presents an authentic output.

Some of her key qualities include subverting the male gaze, breaking glass ceilings, and utilizing innovation to create positive spaces.

Nadia Lee Cohen is constantly creating

On the other hand, Nadia Lee Cohen is one of the women music video directors who invites viewers to her world of surrealism. And she is thus beginning to garner quite the following.

Her music videos often involve the use of ‘curious characters’ that she has developed since youth.

Dir: NLC

Her work is needed in the hip-hop space where artists typically have a tendency to try far-out concepts that are with the times. The visual imagery she embodies deals with saturated hues, hyperreality, eerily placed characters, and mysteriousness.

women music video directors — Nothing to Do in Texas – Nadia Lee Cohen

Plus, as a London gypsy nomad, she bounces from place to place and is a woman who pushes femininity to the extreme.

Thus, her shoots are meticulously planned and often involve animalistic-type lenses.

With hyper-sexualization, unconventional displays of characterization, bemusement, and irony, we think NLC is downright phenomenal and will be in the industry for quite some time.

Interpretation speaks volumes: Breaking it down with Millicent Hailes

Millicent Hailes breaks down her directive game plan much like a coordinator.

She plans for the worst and delivers the best. Working with hip-hop artists gives her an opportunity to provide refreshing outlooks because they often experiment with the outlandish.

As one of the best women music video directors, tapping into the hip-hop genre shows that she is stoked to the max.

She loves to portray the rawness of hip-hop, extravagance, and over-the-top grandeur that many in the genre are inclined to showboat.

She is a director who does things on her own terms and has found an excellent niche by which to do so.

Racking Up a Million Cents with Millicent

Her videos mesh colors together brilliantly and exhibit delusion, derision and scenes resemblant of goth, horror and fantasy.

The quality that makes her a joy to work with is her reception to interpretation.

Millicent often breaks down the artist’s approach into layers and does everything possible to blend their vision with hers in a way that is genuine and groundbreaking.

Diana Kunst is one of the greatest women music video directors of our times

Ultimately, Diana Kunst derives from the film industry and is quite a unique broad filmmaker.

She drives home her visual points with mastery of details within the essence of characters and storylines. Every time, her keen aesthetic sense accentuates the personas of the subjects she captures.

Diana Kunst will sleep when she’s dead

In her videos, she encapsulates natural beauty with sensational and fiery undertones.

Some ways in which she is able to do so involves carefully pondered light, framing, and composition tools. She has a forte for the fiery and keen aesthetically charged productions.

As an individual, she is uninhibited and it shows within her infiltrative works of art. Not to mention, she is one of the best women music video directors out there.

10K80 by Ian Romaker March 11, 2021

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How a college drop-out found his place in the sun with Solar Energy Partners

Keagan Maloney, a 20-year-old college kid walked away from a football scholarship to find his place in the sun, making six figures selling solar for Solar Energy Partners in the big oil state of Texas.

The world demonstrates its ability to evolve as time goes on. Over the years, humanity has taken crucial steps to either assist or delineate that evolution. And now, Solar Energy Partners represents a tectonic shift in technology and fossil fuel emissions reduction for our precious planet.

Clearly, we have come quite far since our monolithic beginnings. Yet, some still choose to rely upon ancient methods.

Rather than remaining in the cave, we burst out into the light to provide you with tried and true mechanisms that will increase our planet’s capabilities and longevity.

What is Solar Energy Partners?

Now let’s all take a moment to withdraw ourselves from whatever is happening at this moment in time. All that we should focus on is the sheer power of solar.

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A post shared by Solar Energy Partners (@solarenergypartners)

Solar power utilizes the rays from the sun with safe and just practices that contribute to energy transition and reallocation. Eventually, every new home will require solar panels as we the people take steps to decarbonize and reach net-zero emissions.

Keep in mind, it is not about us – it is about the people who deserve the same terrestrial being as our years and years down the line.

Solar Energy Partners started in the Central Valley of California and now operates in Nevada, Colorado, Florida, and Texas as well. We took a moment to chop it up with standout employees Keagan Maloney and co-founder Todd Jensen to discuss what makes their company difference-makers for climate change.

An interview with Solar Energy Partners

KH: How could solar energy have made a difference with the power grid dilemma that happened in Texas a few weeks ago?

Keagan: Three weeks ago, there was a storm that shut down our entire electric grid – the reason is because there wasn’t enough supply for the demand.

It’s a lot more efficient, forward-thinking and better for the environment to get your power from your own roof as opposed to having to buy it from the electric grid because the electric grid is not as reliable as the sun.

The recent Texas debacle certainly put many people at risk and highlighted an issue within the massive state of Texas.

“It’s a lot more efficient, forward-thinking and better for the environment”
Keagan Maloney

The current Texas power system is so outdated so none of their equipment is able to supply the influx of people – everyone is moving to Texas so with more people moving to Texas – the outdated grid is just getting more and more strain on it so the solution to that is people are going solar.

How solar power could have helped Texas avoid disaster entirely

KH: What was it like in Texas for the people who experienced hardships due to power outages?

Keagan: It is scary what even 3-4 days without power can do to an area. I didn’t even realize how reliant we were on the grid and it got pretty apocalyptic in a sense so I believe solar is going to boom in the next few years kinda like the iPhone.

I believe solar is going to boom in the next few years kinda like the iPhone.
Keagan Maloney

solar energy partners map — Solar Energy Partners

SEP is based upon sustainability and quality energy

KH: As a company, how do you contribute toward net-zero emissions?

Keagan: By 2025 In California, all new builds are required to incorporate solar. Cali is trying to go net-zero by 2050. We’re trying to get as many Texans set up with solar as we can to do our part to minimize the use of non-renewable fossil fuels.

There aren’t many requirements in Texas considering their stake in the oil game but in California requiring solar, we play a big role in that state’s society. The majority of Cali has solar already so I just hope Texas heads in that direction soon. We can’t do too much without the help of legislation.

Cali is trying to go net zero by 2050.
Keagan Maloney

Just like Lewis and Clark, SEP is on a mission to utilize all resources efficiently

KH: How might water relate to electricity?

Keagan: Your water supply isn’t dependent upon whether or not you have electricity. There are some interesting things you can do with your water in regards to solar. There are systems you can hook up with your solar system that runs your water through your roof.

Since that is already hot, that will become your water heater. You can actually heat your water by running it through the solar on your roof.

There are systems you can hook up with your solar system that runs your water through your roof.
Keagan Maloney

KH: How might solar help a city like Flint that is unable to pump clean water for its citizens?

Keagan: If it was really expensive for a city to distribute power to their citizens, it might lessen a load on them where they could hook everyone up with solar and now they have more capital to allocate toward getting people clean water.

Because everyone is getting powered by the sun they don’t have to worry about the electric grid as much now so they could allocate time, energy and money to getting people clean water because they know they don’t have to worry about distributing electricity to people’s homes.

The sun is abundant and is already hitting the roof so why wouldn’t you just capture your energy from it?
Keagan Maloney

Solar Energy Partners provide a powerful punch in the solar game

KH: What separates Solar Energy Partners (SEP) from the pack?

Keagan: The panels we use look so much better because they are black on black with tempered glass and have a guard on the edge for aerodynamic purposes.

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Todd: Our panels have monocrystalline and polycrystalline structures with black frames, black glass plaques, black backsheet – no visible grid frame or sills/cells – overall better quality higher wattage and better degradation numbers.

KH: What does the SEP ‘white glove service’ entail?

Todd: White glove service means the homeowner doesn’t have to do anything to get solar. Their rep does everything from finding them the best option, ensuring all documentation is done correctly, dealing with HOA/city to obtain permits & approval.

We deal with utility companies, we get all the equipment, we install it, we handle the inspections and we deal with the financing.

White glove service means the homeowner doesn’t have to do anything to get solar.
Todd Jensen

KH: What makes Keagan an ideal representative for your company?

Todd: Keagan is a top representative due to the number of deals that he has done in the past year. His next promotion is to be a mentor himself to help people with training and closing deals. That is the progression path – Mentee, Rep (A-Z on own deals) Mentor to Manager. Keagan started less than a year ago.

In reflection

The opportunity to talk with Solar Energy Partners executives gives a great perspective.

We appreciate their time and effort to ensure our planet can continue spinning for years to come. Please consider your daily habits and always be conscientious of the ways that we can make our world a better place.

Azure Space Mystery by Ian Romaker March 4, 2021

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Women creatives who are thriving in the NFT crypto space

The true values of NFTs lie within the community. The aspect of unity runs thick and it is a highly rewardable space for various reasons. In fact, its community highlights artists, gamers, and other individuals who have worked tirelessly to achieve their moments. In particular: women in NFTs.

For the NFTers, your time is now.

Come One Come All – Get Involved

What makes the NFT space so unique is its inclusiveness. Due to the fact that there are zero entry barriers, global accessibility can exist. NFT is considered a ‘breakaway crypto’ in the sense that it affects all software within the blockchain.

nft community — Woman Holds Bitcoin Which is Becoming More Common

And, as a true digital alternative asset, NFTs create ownership of items like artworks, highlights, trading cards, or animations/videos. And, in this manner, a breakthrough for women in NFTs.

Building the Base Elements

NFTs are indestructible, indivisible, non-interoperable, and verifiable. They add a layer to the developing blockchain that provides a new set of stateful primitives. These are used to build applications or market items.

Thus, the basic primitives that NFTs build upon are ownership, transfer, and simple access control.

Pros and Cons – NFT Emissions

Hence, everything about NFTs sounds terrific! But, not everyone is on board. Some people refuse to be apart of this newfound community due to the negative impact it may have on our universe.

There is a massive carbon footprint associated with crypto mining. Plus, untold gigajoules of power being burnt. Nonetheless, it is refreshing to see power continuously make its way into the hands of creators.

3D Motion Based Art is Happiest in its Native Digital Space

However, the trend that we want to see continue to thrive is the inclusion of women in NFTs and the cryptocurrency arena.

Recently, the Azure Space Mystery game series celebrated the International Day of Women in Science. They allowed their users to complete a Minecraft mission in order to garner an NFT! Nifty!

Women in NFTs Creating a Digital Journey

nft women — Blockade Games Boss Reigns from the Neon District (Credit: Blockade Games)

Blockade Games co-founder Marguerite deCourcelle is a major player in the crypto space. As a woman in NFTs, she has taken an interesting approach by providing paintings with clues to hidden bitcoin prizes.

So, her interactivity in the space cannot be underestimated. In fact, she contributes ideas, artworks, and even written folklore.

Modern Voices Inform the Masses and more Women in NFTs

Lady Pheonix is the founder and host of the virtual channel, CryptoBasel. She organizes engaging Clubhouse salons to generate accessible and informative online sessions.

This way, she has become a leading contemporary voice within the crypto space with activities like dance activism and Crypto fashion week. Thus, many young cryptonians put their attention in her direction to receive guidance, inspiration, and knowledge regarding blockchain happenings.

Active Animations Accentuate Awareness

Rachel Siegel is one of the original crypto influencers in the space. She has been vocal about impersonation bans and works diligently to create equal access to the blockchain across the globe.

Since fraud trends have outweighed moderation trends on social platforms she uses her channel, Crypto Finally to educate and level the playing field for everyone involved. Her high-quality animations began to get people fascinated about crypto.

And, now that she has a fair share of attention she uses her channel to educate and spread awareness about crypto issues that arise per day.

Artists Have Agency Through Redistribution

On another hand, Sara Ludy has proven the ability to broker “smart contracts” in the age of women in NFTs.

The way to broker a “smart contract” is through pre-determined ownership conditions programmed into the metadata. In this game we call life, it all comes down to ownership.

Since NFTs are dynamic monetizable forms, there must be an opportunity to retain equity. Sara focuses on digital materiality in situations that involve fractional and proportional ownership. These types of ownership opportunities shift value propositions as a whole.

So, rather than payment via flat dollar amount, creatives can receive higher payment if their work outperforms the market/accounts for shifts over time due to contractual terms.

So, what NFTs really come down to is the ability to create interdependence. The attention economics have flipped and even bitform gallery workers are getting in on the act.

Thus, arts administrative labor has become recognized as a stake in NFT spaces so that those handling the artwork can invest as well. With strong lifetime value, NFTs are boomin’ because they provide value at the speed of light.

As long as NFTs revolve around art, story, and legacy they will not be going anywhere anytime soon.

alicia keys by Ian Romaker March 2, 2021

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Are NFTs the new wave? Swizz Beatz is the perfect NFT market influencer

As our modern era continues to evolve, digital existence becomes more and more advanced. Cryptocurrency is on an exponential tear and does not appear to be losing steam whatsoever. This is especially apropos as the NFT market emerges and Swizz Beatz emerges as an ideal influencer.

All cryptocurrencies exist within a blockchain where they are hosted safely and securely. New development within the online world goes by the name of NFT – non-fungible token.

Get hip to the NFT market

The NFT market allows users to own the things that they purchase within gaming, digital art spaces, domain names, event tickets, sports highlights, and so on.

This entire phenomenon continues to update in real-time so we will give you a basic breakdown of these newfound tokens.

NFT’s vary in their ability to be traded, and their liquidity and interoperability, which means they are easily moved. Given the fact that they exist within the blockchain, there is virtually no chance of any scams or frauds, either.

Since NFTs exist within the blockchain they are legitimately embedded to make it easy to verify its origin and unique nature. The blockchain exists to identify digital objects to secure their authenticity and rarity.

Get rich smart – Not get rich quick

Keep in mind, investing in the NFT market is a smart move. But only do so if you do not require an immediate return of the money you sink into the volatile blockchain.

Considering the fact that ownership only occurs in certain contexts, it is important to know what exactly you are investing your money into before you go full-force in your efforts.

More power to creatives

We are in the midst of one of the biggest inflection points in history.

Since Bitcoin and Ethereum continue to reach new all-time highs by the minute, there have been more creative ways developed to allocate the surplus funds.

Greater exposure of digital assets has made it possible to create a wider pool of potential buyers.

swizz beatz — A gigantic Kaws figure kicks back in in Taipei City, Taiwan.

The part that really brings excitement is that the power has begun to shift into the hands of the creatives. For example, artists on Nifty Gateway have been utilizing NFT transactions to garner life-changing amounts of money.

Not only that, but anyone who has been able to get their hands on artwork from this platform now own a valuable asset that continues to appreciate value over time.

Own what you labor

It all comes down to ownership. Just last year, Epic Games made roughly $2.4B off of selling “skins” or costumes for characters.

People continue to sink cash into their characters on Fortnite but do not digitally own any of the uniforms they purchase.

NFTs are a great way to curate and discover a scarce source of emerging digital content. They provide access to the ownership of emotional and cultural experiences.

Swizz Beatz could be the model NFT market influencer

NFTs are common, reusable, and inheritable. We think Swizz Beatz would be a prime candidate to be an NFT influencer solely because his artistic prowess is second-to-none.

Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys own some of the most highly-coveted art pieces known to man.

Swizz sharpens and nurtures his business-savvy maneuvers through art that typically involves African-American depictions and artists.

Keys and Beats together often host “Just Because” parties to celebrate the invigoration and interactive nature of the artists and artwork that they surround themselves with.

The human body is a work of art in and of itself, so in essence we are all artists. Swizz Beats would be an excellent influencer within the NFT art space because he represents what it means to be wholesome within any space.

His bodies of work represent art to the fullest as he respects, reveres and builds deeply rooted relationships with the artists that he comes in contact with.

Altogether, he wholeheartedly contributes to the honor of life with timeless essence and downright discipline for his craft. For that reason, we believe he would provide immense value within the NFT art market.

art by Ian Romaker February 25, 2021

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Leave it to Rieber: Simon says art is the way

Simon Rieber is the digital artist of our generation.

At Kulture Hub, we highlight vibrance within our communities. We know art can be transcendent, and thank god for the world of social media that has opened up endless opportunities for people to learn about artists building on culture.

Keep in mind, you must punch in countless hours to reach mastery at anything you do. The sole focus always comes back to your ability to tap into your core and define what makes you special. If you have a dream, do whatever it takes to protect it.

Simon Rieber is a 25-year-old digital artist from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. His contributions to the online world cannot be understated simply for the precision and attention to detail he pours into every piece.

We took some time out to chop it up with him about his creative process.

For Simon Rieber, the medium is the message

Simon Riebers Waves to the Crowd (Credit: S.Rieber)

KultureHub: Art is a wonderful medium for expression. When you first got started, how much of your art was for personal benefit and how did it transition into a full-blown content creation service?

Simon Rieber: When I started doing art I didn’t expect any benefits, I did it because I wanted to. After I started posting my work online I realized people are offering something different and then I positioned myself as a graphic content creator.

Simon Rieber on his inspirations

“Chiworld is my muse.”
Simon Rieber

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A post shared by Simon Rieber 🇹🇿 (@simonrieber)

KH: Who or what specifically made you go to the drawing board and develop your skills?

SR: I am inspired by seeing what other artists have drawn or painted. I’m also extremely inspired by nature and animals. I really like to draw because I can show my feelings in my drawings. Many people ask me who taught me how to draw but I tell them that it is just inspiration and it runs in my family.

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A post shared by Simon Rieber 🇹🇿 (@simonrieber)

The beginning of Rieber’s journey

SR: I officially started creating content in 2018.

Social media enables me to add value to my stakeholders in a targeted way, allowing me to communicate faster, more often, and with greater relevance. Satisfied customers are more likely to share their experiences with others online which will in turn help to promote my brand and bring in new customers.
Simon Rieber

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A post shared by Simon Rieber 🇹🇿 (@simonrieber)

What makes Simon Rieber unique?

KH: How do you differentiate yourself from all of the artists within your creative niche?

SR: I understand what makes my style uniquely mine is the first step in defining the audience for my art. For instance, perhaps you work in ceramics and use interesting geometric patterns on your products, this could be what makes your work uniquely yours. Photographers and artists may have certain lighting schemes or color palettes that make their work distinctive.

Delve into what makes [your] creative craft uniquely yours and hone that ability.
Simon Rieber

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A post shared by Simon Rieber 🇹🇿 (@simonrieber)

KH: How has where you were raised had an influence on the work you do? Do you have plans to give back to the community with your work through murals or events?

SR: In my country, the art of painting has become very popular, and my work is loved by many. In any case, I am ready to give back to the community.

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A post shared by Simon Rieber 🇹🇿 (@simonrieber)

Advice for fellow creatives

KH: Do you have any advice for aspiring illustrators or graphic designers?

SR: My advice to other artists is, don’t attempt to imitate another designer’s style, listen to your clients, and gain experience.

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A post shared by Simon Rieber 🇹🇿 (@simonrieber)

Reflecting on a talk with Simon Rieber

Certain music artists that Rieber has collaborated with on his art include Lucas Coly and Leah Robinson.

Simon Rieber is an unrelenting artiste in every sense of the word. Always lock in to what makes you different.

Embrace your flaws and embody your role to the utmost degree. That way, you can find your creative niche and continue to progress throughout your life.

andre 3000 by Ian Romaker February 24, 2021

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Who are the jewelers and creatives that made grillz fashionable?

A wise man once said, “Take care of your teeth, it is the first thing that people will notice!” Now, we cannot control the smile God gives us, but we can control our hygiene. A great smile is catchy, captivating, and contagious. And grillz only accentuate all three of these factors!

For those residing in the same place as Patrick Star, a grill is a teeth decoration that covers the bottom half, top half, or the entirety of one’s teeth.

“We like them boys that be in the ‘Lac’s leanin – Open their mouth they grill gleamin'”
Soldier – Destiny’s Child

Nelly made the term extremely popular in 2005 with his bouncy song, “Grillz” feat. Paul Wall that sampled Destiny’s Child and MC Shan. I would be amiss if I didn’t mention the originators of rocking Grillz – Slick Rick and Flava Flav.

With that, let’s get into some of the most notorious jewelers and creatives behind grillz of all time.

Eddie Plein’s gold grillz

Eddie Plein‘s gold grillz fit like a glove. If it ain’t 22’s, it ain’t worth a damn, son.

And that’s word to Christopher “Big Black” Boykin!

Plein’s humble beginnings saw him open up shop on 169th Street in Hillside, Queens. Eddie was a man of many talents and got his first grill after breaking a tooth on the Surinam Trie fish back in ‘83.

This man flipped the script on the grillz game over in money-making Queens. He served the most fly clientele such as 50 Cent, Andre 3000, Flava Flav, Kool G Rap, and Big Daddy Kane.

Plein’s disdain for the “mail-order gold” jewelers and business-savvy decisions ultimately drove him away from the game after garnering significant funds in the process.

His thoughts on permanents were that they had to be 22 carats or more. Anything less is unacceptable.

“Mouth shining, Eddie gold caps all up in the dental.”
(Nas, A Queens Story)

Johnny Dang

The name Johnny Dang is synonymous with grillz fashion. He conducted business with Paul Wall and skyrocketed to become the integral grill master that he is today.

It is impossible to discuss the grillz industry without bringing up the name Johnny Dang.

At a young age, he took notice of the disparity between the amount and size of jewelry in America versus his home country, Vietnam.

He fine-tuned his process by utilizing the advancements in technology and strong technical skills that America had to offer.

Johnny Dang flashes Rose Gold grillz (Credit: TvJohnny.Net)

He changed the game by innovating grillz that could be inserted without filing or affecting the teeth in any permanent way.

He linked up with Paul Wall and took off from there as both entrepreneurs had a very strategic gameplan on how to get every American mouth shining.

His main takeaway from the industry is compassion, as he treats every person just how they deserve to be – as a person, not as an opportunity to make a quick buck.

Other creatives who sparked the flame

Not everyone makes it to the main stage, but if they sparked the flame that blossomed the trend, they deserve flowers too.

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A post shared by Thurston crimeboss slaughter (@thurstonslaughter)

It is always a good idea to trace any trend back to its roots. This brings us to Houston artist Thurston Slaughter, who made his debut into the rap game on 8Ball & MJG’s album, “Outside Looking In,” back in 1994.

His career did not see nearly the amount of success that Mike Jones, Paul Wall, or Nelly saw. Regardless, it is clear that his “Suave House Records” style influenced “Swisher House Records” artists such as Paul Wall and OG Ron C.

Thurston helped Paul Wall learn how to design and mold grills and set up his first temporary Grillz shop in Houston [1996]. Shortly thereafter, Paul Wall launched his own grillz enterprise in Houston’s Sharpstown Mall.

Nowadays, grillz are surging in popularity, once again. Along with tooth gems, any dental decoration can be seen as a way to look more “edgy and extravagant.”

No matter what you do, please do not try to DIY with grillz or tooth gem. Make sure you put your molars in the trusted hands of a dentist professional to ensure prosperous flossing.