Equinox Art Exhibition Featuring Maria Estrela and Christine Keeley with Live Music by Marilyn Castillo and Nedelka Sotelo (Sunday, March 13, 2022)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Friday, March 11, 2022

Equinox, the Exhibit

Through an exciting collaboration between photographer/artist Christine Keeley and collage/mixed media artist Maria Estrela, the idea of Equinox: The Birth and Rebirth of a Woman, a celebration of Women’s International History Month, was born.  The exhibition will be on view at The Jewish Museum of New Jersey in Newark, New Jersey from March 6th to April 3rd.

We caught up with Maria Estrella and Christine Keeley to understand the exhibition and more importantly the connection between the artist and their work. Take a listen. 

The work focuses on the connection between women and nature; how women’s spiritual, emotional, and psychological being changes through the seasons. Equinox comes from a response to those changes. It's the yin/yang, the dark/light, black/white, sun/moon, past/future. We need to feel deeply the importance of our ancestors and what we are creating for the future generations. As we make those connections we understand that Equinox can bring moments of happiness, warmth, and love.  Even in the midst of the long, dark days, we can still find happiness.

The Artists

Christine Keeley

“Christine has a natural gift for capturing the human form and spirit.”

Christine Keeley is a studio owner and independent photographer based in NY and Summit NJ, best known for her bold and emotive imagery. Christine’s lifelong passion for the visual and performing arts is reflected in her unique photographic style, capturing the natural movement and expressions of her subjects.  Inspired by feminine strength, she uses the camera as a tool to elevate and inspire her subjects.

Christine developed her keen eye for visual storytelling at a young age, influenced by her father and maternal grandfather- both physicians and avid photography enthusiasts. Her large extended Irish-American family became her own visual time capsule of the complex moments in time of human love, innocence,  joy, sorrow, hope and contradiction.  

With a lengthy corporate career and the rise of digital art, Christine was able to envision a path to a successful business as an entrepreneur. After raising her two young children, she made the bold career move to the visual arts, where she naturally felt the transition to photography. She invested heavily in fine-tuning her craft, shooting in the studios of some of the world’s top fashion and beauty photographers. A year later, Christine’s instagram @christinek_nyc led to her first commercial shoot - and she never looked back. In 2018, Christine was invited to join a boutique art gallery in New York as Associate Art Director which led to a position on the board of Summit Public Arts. From there, Christine embarked on her own exhibition projects in NYC and NJ.  You can learn more here:

Christine Keeley Photography

www.christinekeeley.com

info@christinekeeley.com

Instagram: @christinek_nyc

Maria Estrela

I make art to heal and inspire myself and to transform the resilience and strength women carry in themselves into a visual form that encourages and empowers all women, from young to old. My collages reunite women with nature by placing them in landscapes, decorating them with found objects, and re-contextualizing their power. I want to emphasize the beauty of nature and the natural beauty of all women. By paying attention to the changing seasons, I understand more deeply the seasons in my own life and connect the world around me to the phases in a woman’s life. 

Maria Estrela was born in Cascais, Portugal and raised in a large extended family from Cape Verde, West Africa. Settling in Newark, NJ in 2002, she attended The Newark School of the Arts in 2008, where she was able to further develop, explore, and broaden her interest in digital photography. Estrela’s photographs of nature and scenes from independent travels serve as a means of self expression, escape, and self-healing. Photography is where she finds stillness, freedom, and a doorway to connect to her inner self.  Maria’s interest in collages started when she met Artist Mansa Mussa in 2018 in one of his collage workshops. Since that first experience, collages and mixed media have become part of her artistic development. You can learn more here:  IG @estrela37_ and www.mariaestrela.com 

Live Music Performance

This wonderful event will contain a performance by up and coming singers Marilyn Castillo and Nedelka Sotello. 

Singer Marilyn Castillo

"Marilyn is a rising Latin Diva with a soulful voice" - Ilana Martin, Vocal Workout

Marilyn Castillo is an independent Chicana singer-songwriter who comes from a long lineage of musicians and troubadours who passed on the passion for fine, bold and moving music that make both her singing and songwriting exotic and glamorous.

She is currently co-producing her first solo album “Chicana en Nueva York” with themes of her authorship, her first single “Todavia” granting her the Latin Artist Revelation of Premios Latinos Fama in 2019. In 2020 she released her second single "Noche de Marzo".

Born and raised in El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juarez, México her love for these borderlands and in order to take her music career to another level Marilyn moved to New York in 2014 and has lived there ever since. She has shared the stage with Bobby Cruz, Richie Ray, Arturo Ortíz, and Latin Grammy winners Samuel Torres Flor de Toloache among others. In 2018 she became the female lead singer of Calpulli Mexican Dance Company. She is also the lead singer of Mexican Latin Alternative band Adderesound.

https://www.marilyncastillo.com/ 

Singer Nedelka Sotelo

Nedelka Sotelo is a performer/teaching artist born and raised in Mexico City. Currently living in New York acting with different theater companies (Teatro SEA, Mexico Beyond Mariachi, etc) and singing with her Mexican Reggae Band "Nedelka & Latin Roots".

https://www.facebook.com/NedelkaSoteloArtist/  

Equinox Art Exhibition

Won’t you join us, March 13 - 2-5 PM. Let us know you are coming.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/whm2022-art-exhibition-featuring-the-latin-jazzy-sounds-of-marilyn-castillo-tickets-288314084187

About the Author — Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, producer, promoter, event planner, and community partner. Gregory Burrus combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music and being a strong community advocate. 

I love writing about it all. My mission is to help community groups, live music bands, and local nonprofits, reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life. 

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus   
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus 

Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition at SOPAC (RECAP)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Saturday, February 26, 2022

Encountering photographs and artwork directly — as opposed to viewing online or in a book — is important and enriching. An exhibition invites visitors to slow down and to experience work as the artist/photographer and curator intended. When one is viewing this South Orange Performing Arts Center Black History Month exhibition and are viewing the photography of local photographer Patrick Hilaire, your first impression or instinctive reaction might be like many others, “Wow he captured all of ‘this’ within one click of the camera.”  Yes, some amazing shots were on display at the Patrick Hilaire LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition. As explained in an earlier post, Patrick has a detailed preparation process, and these shots clearly demonstrate that Patrick, when working on site, is working within the moment. 

About the Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition

“The exhibition showcases 25 stunning black-and-white portraits of Jazz musicians. Every portrait in this exhibition tells its own story,” says curator, Jeremy Moss. The Haitian-born self-taught photographer’s ability to capture compelling musical moments by renowned artists has brought Hilaire widespread acclaim. “Musical events are the intersection where the rhythm of the performer and photographer get to meet,” says Hilaire. “It’s really moments that I try to capture, and those moments only happen once.”

Artist Reception: Motivation Behind His Photography

Patrick Hilaire talks about the motivation behind the photography.

During this reception’s artist talk, Patrick took the time to explain more of the motives and feelings behind his shooting process. Patrick discussed the musicians and their impact upon his process, which is more than just the shot. He also reflected on their commitment to the music and their history.

Take a listen.

You can also learn more here in a prior Jersey Indie post - Celebrate Black History Month with Patrick Hilaire. 

Musicians Performance    

John Lee and Friends perform at Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition.

During the exhibition, jazz could be heard across the exhibition floors. The mellow swinging sounds were waffling through the air. Folks actually were able to listen to the music, view the photos, and actually see one of the artists photographed in the gallery exhibition playing the music. A pretty cool move. The musicians performing also have an extensive musical history across the industry, which their bios reflect, and it makes the photography process even sweeter. Check them out. 

Bassist John Lee — A Grammy-winning recording engineer/producer, has performed as bassist with legendary Dizzy Gillespie for 10 years and with other luminaries such as Aretha Franklin, Paquito D'Rivera, Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, McCoy Tyner, James Moody, Jimmy Heath, Joe Henderson, Larry Coryell, Gregory Hines, Claudio Roditi, Arturo Sandoval amongst many others. John Lee runs from Dizzy Gillespie to Aretha Franklin and into the stars of today. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Lee_(bassist))

Drummer Gerry Brown — Was Stevie Wonder's drummer for 14 years, helped create the legendary world-famous jazz tune "School Days'' with his friend Stanley Clark, is an ex-member of Chick Corea's iconic world renown tune "Return To Forever", performed with Kool and the Gang, and is currently touring with Diana Ross. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerry_Brown_(drummer))

Pianist Alex Collins — A New York City-based pianist, composer, arranger and vibraphonist, made his debut at the Tanglewood Jazz Festival with the Brandon Wright Quartet, has performed with Ronnie Burrage, Micelle Coltrane, Big Funk, Gerry Gibbs, Karl Latham, John Lee, Lonnie Plaxico, Lenny White, and the Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars amongst many others. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-collins-9ba56b4)

It made for some beautiful music, and you can read more about the musicians here on JerseyIndie — https://bit.ly/jazzyNightswJoh...

Patrons and Visitor Feedback 

Swinging with John Lee and Friends.

The music portion of the night was enjoyed tremendously. Here are a few comments from reception attendees:

Patrick’s black and white photography was aesthetically sexy.  He captured the passion of the musician behind the drums and the commitment of the hornist on the Asbury Park boardwalk. And the smooth sounds of jazz were just the right compliment for the night. — CC M

Had a marvelous time with great music and wonderful photography. 

It was a wonderful event and the photo exhibition will remain up, so come by and you won’t be disappointed! — Linda C.

Fantastic! Patrick Hilaire is my favorite photographer. — Charlie A 

Continue Celebrating Patrick Hilaire Photography 

Exhibition promotion and other shots not on display. 

While this exhibition ends on Feb. 28th in The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC, we hope you get to see it. 

We also advise you to continue to view even more Patrick Hilaire photography. You can stay up to date here on his IG, @l1stener. If you like what you see at the exhibition, know that his art will be available for purchase as these will be museum-quality archival pigment prints on Bright White Velvet 100% rag paper.  

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Photo Credit: Patrick Hilaire

Gregory Burrus is a local live music producer, promoter who captures, and records live music performances, community events and private engagements. Gregory also loves to write and blog about the art and entertainment scene across New Jersey and New York. 

My mission is to help artists, live music bands, community groups, and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their mission while thoroughly enjoying the day-to-day process of life.  

Learn more at:

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus

http://gregoryburrusproductions.com
http://24hoursofmusicjamboree.com
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus  

Celebrate Black History Month at SOPAC with Patrick Hilaire’s LIGHT [+SOUND] Photography Exhibition

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, February 2, 2022

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history. You can read more about The Man Behind Black History Month. 

Black History Month 2022 Health and Wellness

For Black History Month 2022, the theme is Black Health and Wellness, and in a recent recap article “2021 Live Music Year In Review” I opined about the health and mental benefits of the art of live music:

“For listeners, a live music concert is a pleasurable social event that is among the most visceral and memorable forms of musical engagement. It's the same for musicians, with the added note that for many it’s not a side business, it’s their lifeblood and the thing that keeps them alive. With that in mind, we all pushed on through the year making music and great memories.” 

After seeing the absence of music and art during this COVID pandemic and the slow recovery we are all going through, there is no doubt that Art and Music have a major effect on helping us feel better, recover, survive, and even thrive during the current state of the world. 

Photo Credit: Clements Place Jazz by Patrick Hilaire Photography

Exposure to art and music along with participation in creative activities creates positive brain changes. That's according to a new report from the Global Council on Brain Health (GCBH), an AARP-founded working group of scientists, health care professionals and other experts. Their latest report, “Music on Our Minds,” highlights research showing music's positive effect on emotional well-being, including improving mood, decreasing anxiety, and managing stress. There is creativity in making the music and there’s creativity spawned from listening to music. In an upcoming event, we will encounter exceptional creativity from a preeminent photographer who listens to the sounds and is inspired by the light. 

Photographer Patrick Hilaire 

"I am excited about the upcoming Light and Sound Exhibition at the beautiful SOPAC Gallery. This show gives me a chance to share and explore the deeper elements of my passion when it comes to understanding the intersection of sound and light in any live music performance. There's beauty in the moment and capturing it ‘just right’ amongst all else that is going on during a live performance is a challenge that I enjoy."  — Patrick Hilaire

Around the Jersey NYC area there are many live music performances and, of course, numerous photographers. One notable local photographer that stands out from the pack is the professional photographer known as @l1stener or Patrick Hilaire. Over time, Patrick has compiled a remarkable collection of photographs of live music performances, the musicians, and the environments associated with the Greater New Jersey and New York live music scene. One of the things we notice is that whether he’s at a live music performance, a wedding, or he’s strolling down the street, he’s keenly aware of the details beyond what we normally see. While we see the daily activities of life moving around us, Patrick sees the details in one leaf amongst the leaves blowing in the wind, the formation of the icicles occurring on the side mirror of a car and, yes, while we listen to the music he sees the lights emanating from the sound.

Patrick is also known for capturing not just the music and the musicians, and if you stare in one direction too long, you may find yourself captured by Patrick. And the funny part is folks who say “No, not me,” end up loving his images of them. Since we get to hang out and be around him at times, we get to see firsthand his working process and how it unfolds. Sometimes he shows up, grabs a beverage, turns his hat around backwards, pulls out his camera, and starts shooting and the results are like this gorgeous one of our buddy Boz, RIP, 2020.

Jazz Advocate Lee “Boz” May by Patrick Patrick Hilaire Photography

At other times, he shows up, eyes the environment, sets up all his equipment, pulls out his camera or cameras, adjusts the settings, turns his hat around and starts the shooting session. What we don’t see is that he believes, in preparation before the event, spending time getting to know his subjects and his environment. He thinks about posing and positioning of his subjects and then deliberately chooses camera settings that ensure the final result will look fantastic. Sometimes the preparation is all done in the blink of an eye, yet it’s all very professionally done.  

From the archives Patrick Hilaire Photography. 

The results speak for themselves as Patrick sees the light and more, in addition to the sound that comes from the musicians. If you've been in the presence of Patrick at any of our events, you can tell he sees more than we do, so we are very happy to see an exhibition of his work being put on display at the beautiful South Orange Performing Arts Center. 

LIGHT [+SOUND] Exhibition

The South Orange Performing Arts Center describes this wonderful event about the photography of Patrick Hilaire as follows: 

“His life’s work has focused on capturing the relationship between images and sound. Known as the man behind the camera at many Jazz happenings, Hilaire has been a staple in the local music scene for years. Hilaire has photographed performers from SOPAC’s Jazz & Blues in the Loft series as well as the Dizzy Gillespie All Star Band at the Blue Note in New York City. Hilaire has exhibited at several galleries, was featured at the South by South Orange Festival, and shot performances at the John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival as well as the South Mountain International Blues Festival.”

The Haitian-born self-taught photographer’s ability to capture compelling musical moments by great artists has brought him widespread acclaim. “Musical events are the intersection where the rhythm of the performer and photographer get to meet,” he says. A Jazz lover since childhood, Hilarie was first moved by the genre when his older brother Max Hilaire, also a noted photographer, brought home Herbie Mann's “The Glory of Love.”

Add to the above, Patrick has captured and documented numerous Jazz events at clubs and jazz venues all over Northern NJ and New York City, from Morristown’s Shanghai Jazz to Jersey City’s Brightside Tavern and Moore's Lounge. In between, you will see his beautiful captures from West Orange’s South Valley BBQ and Bar, South Orange Summer Saturdays Stages, Jazz On Sloan at the South Orange Gazebo, Papillon 25, The Fox and Falcon, Montclair’s DLV Lounge, Newark's Clements Place Jazz 973, NJPAC and, of course, SOPAC’s most prestigious Giants of Jazz Program. In New York, he’s covered just about every jazz venue, from North Harlem’s SMOKEs to the Village Vanguard, Blue Note, Small's, and Birdland in Southern Manhattan, along with venues in Brooklyn. 

South Orange Performing Arts Center and The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery 

According to the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) website:

“SOPAC is an accessible cultural destination located in the heart of downtown South Orange that presents world-class artists in an intimate and welcoming environment […] Through visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment, SOPAC has become a cultural centerpiece for the region, an economic driver for the community and a catalyst for artistic opportunity.

The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC showcases a wide range of artists bringing contemporary art to a broader audience […] With the support of the Gallery’s Art Advisory Committee, art exhibitions are selected according to the vision of the Curator, Jeremy Moss. Exhibition themes, artist selection, even placement of artwork is meant to lead visitors through the Gallery exhibition while telling a story, instigating questions and provoking conversations […]

The Gallery is located on the second and third floors of SOPAC. It hosts 4-5 art exhibits a year.”

Admission to the Gallery is free. Visit www.SOPACnow.org/gallery.

Light [+Sound]  Exhibition Details

Celebrate Black History Month with the photography of local notable, Patrick Hilaire. 

On Display: Showcasing Patrick Hilaire’s stunning black-and-white portraits of Jazz musicians.

Where: The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC 

When:  February 1 – 28, 2022 

Hours:  Monday-Saturday, Noon – 6 PM.

Admission: Free

Reception: Thursday, February 17, 5 – 8 PM, plus live jazz music.

The art will be available for purchase, as these will be museum-quality archival pigment prints on Bright White Velvet 100% rag paper.

Learn more: https://www.sopacnow.org/events/light-sound-reception/

About the Curator Jeremy Moss 

Curator Jeremy Moss. Photo by Kevin Coughlin.

Having studied photography and graphic art in the U.K., Jeremy Moss’s journey to the artist of today has been a combination of fine art shows and editorial assignments. His photographic, fine art limited editions have been shown throughout the greater New York metropolitan region in solo shows, juried fine art shows, and group shows. His work is held in both private and corporate collections, domestic and international. Jeremy is also a painter and mosaic artist. His paintings are mostly abstract textural pieces that have a definite relationship with his fine art photography. 

In 2016, the South Orange Performing Arts Center appointed Jeremy as the curator for the Herb & Milly Iris Gallery. He is an experienced and visionary arts non-profit leader with over 19 years in arts and arts management, skilled at building exceptional teams focused on collaboration and results. He was brought on board to oversee the strategic direction of the gallery, as well as bring new exhibits to the South Orange landmark that reflect the mission of the Herb & Milly Iris Gallery — to encourage emerging artists and to bring contemporary art to a broader audience.

Jeremy is a native of Leicester, England and currently resides in Orange, New Jersey.

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music producer, promoter who captures, and records live music performances, community events and private engagements. Gregory also loves to write and blog about the art and entertainment scene across New Jersey and New York, 

My mission is to help artists, live music bands, community groups, and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their mission while thoroughly enjoying the day-to-day process of life.  

Learn more at: 

http://gregoryburrusproductions.com
http://24hoursofmusicjamboree.com
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus   

Artists Creatively Using Art and Stories to Shine a Light On Domestic Violence (RECAP)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Trinity Presbyterian Church of Montclair recently presented a virtual art exhibit called “Behind Closed Doors Part 2: Reflections of Domestic Violence.” This project was curated by Deacon Cathleen McCoy Bristol and a huge thanks goes out to her for bringing everyone together. Raising awareness on domestic violence is always a touchy subject even amongst friends and family, so shining a light on a subject that occurs behind closed doors is very much needed in today’s society. 

By shining a light on the subject of domestic violence, the goal is to help those in these situations, and others, recognize the signs of abuse, how to respond respectfully, and identify a few resources to use. An individual's safety should be everyone’s number one priority and this project is about moving folks to action and then moving the survivors on a path from crisis to safety, to stability and then into self-sufficiency.  

What I loved about this “Behind Closed Doors” exhibit on Domestic Violence is that these artists expressed great creativity in the various ways they use their art as tools to mentally and physically help those who may currently be under the oppression of an abuser. 

The exhibiting artists include: Trinity Member Simone Bailey Campbell, Anne Dushanko Dobek, Nette Forne Thomas, Mansa K. Mussa, and Ron EA Powell.  Finally, an insightful Clinical presentation was also given by Kathlyn Battle, MSW, LCSW.

Everyone deserves healthy relationships and each artist displayed their art and related their story and described their art and how it related to the various stages of Domestic Violence. We opened with the project supporters and sponsors committed to helping solve the problems of domestic violence. 

Rev. Dr. Anita Wright, Pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church provided the Welcome Message.

Pastor Wright can be reached at Trinity Presbyterian Church or at pastor-trinitymtc@Comcast.net.   

Family Support Organization of Essex County provided the Greeting. Their mission is to provide peer support, education and advocacy for parents at all stages so that children and families can thrive. www.fsoec.org.

The artists came together one morning under the direction of the event curator Cathleen McCoy Bristol, an artist herself, and volunteered their time for this very important subject. 

Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Curator, introduces Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors artists

The Artists, Their Art, Their Story

As you will see when they relate the story of their art, you will also see that they are very committed to helping those in need. 

Simone Bailey Campbell, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors 

sim@screamingblustudio.com, www.simonebaileycampbell.com

Anne Dushanko Dobek, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors 

adobek@aol.com, www.dushankodobek.com

Nette Forne, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

arthomasn@verizon.net, www.nettefornethomas.com

Mansa K. Mussa, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

photomansa@gmail.com, 973-669-4729, www.mansamussa.com

Ron E.A. Powell, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

https://www.instagram.com/reap13art/

Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors 

cathy.mccoy.bristol@gmail.com, https://cathymccoybristol.webstarts.com/

Kathlyn Battle, MSW, LCSW

Katbattle@comcast.net

View and share with all  

Since  you never know what goes on Behind Closed Doors, please share this all inclusive, important and powerful artist exhibition. This video contains all the stories of “Behind Closed Doors: Domestic Violence Project Part 2”:

A Big Thank you to Curator Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Trinity Presbyterian Church Montclair, Deacon Deidra McLaughlin and the Sponsor, The Family Support Organization of Essex County, NJ.  

Please recognize the symbol for help. 

This is a very serious subject and I am very sad this occurs, however I was glad that Gregory Burrus Productions Videography was instrumental in helping get the word out through Art and Story. Remember to help those who need your help.

About the Writer, Gregory Burrus 

Gregory Burrus is a Passionate Community Advocate, Live Music Producer, Reporter, and Writer about local events and happenings In and Around Essex County, NJ. Showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and happenings as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest.

My mission is to help people, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day to day process of life. Learn more at http://gregoryburrusproductions.com 

Celebrating Black Lives Matter via Art and Live Music at BLM Artist Reception (RECAP)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Thursday, November 11, 2021

Unfortunately, in today’s world we have to tell people that life matters. Hence, the Black Lives Matter  Movement which is a decentralized political and social movement protesting against incidents of police brutality and all racially motivated violence against black people.

Being a Mahatma Gandhi fan, I share his quote, “The future depends on what we do in the present.” In recapping the Juneteenth celebration during the Artist Reception of “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”, it was wonderful to see and hear this very creative West Orange Art Council (WOAC) exhibition. To me, this exhibition was a celebration of life via two life-changing mediums — art and live music.

“Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”

The Curators

Designed to address the issues of today, the artists were encouraged to express their feelings about this subject in their art. As part of West Orange, NJ’s celebration and commemoration of Juneteenth, artists Maria Luis Estrela and Carol T. Jenkins of the West Orange Arts Council (WOAC) curated this exhibition. It was clear from meeting early on with Maria that she had a personal connection to this exhibition.

“I purposely utilize my skills to help Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) artists, who are underrepresented in the arts scene,” Maria Estrela said. “I feel it’s important to raise awareness of the issues faced in their own communities including racism, discrimination, inequality and injustice.” (See For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning.)

Maria’s passion was also reflected in the article How Maria Estrela’s Passion for Arts and Travel Shapes RBNY Homegrown Player, Bento Estrela, where Maria clearly feels a close connection to singer/songwriter Nina Simone. “Nina Simone, she was an activist and through her music, she raised awareness about what was happening in America against Black people. So she was a very powerful woman, she used her music to say what was happening in America,” said Estrela. “So that inspired me to create first because she was a great musician and artist, and second because she was an activist, and she was fighting for equality and justice.”  

The Artists

The exhibit debuted in person on June 5th and was open for in-person visits at the West Orange Arts Center (551 Valley Road) through July 31. As stated on the WOAC’s website:

“Over 40 artists, photographers and poets are participating in this art for social change. The participating artists are: Sarah Bass Aspe, Josephine Barreiro, Yuri Bisono, Carol Black-Lemon, Wendy Born, Syreeta Brooks, Marina Carreira, Patricia Croft, Antoinette Ellis-Williams, Maria Estrela, Mary Fordham, Karen Goldberg, Dino Gravato, Patricia Hutchinson, Queen Mother Imakhu, Carol T. Jenkins, Lizette Louis, Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Barbara Motley, Frank Niccoletti, Amelia Panico, Davynte “Red” Pannell, Sundra Parker, John Piccoli, Dayana Poulard, Ron Powell, Martryce Roach, Gale Sasson, Ameerah Shabazz, Ella Silivanch, Timothy Simmons, Elaine Tassy, Sheila R. Thompson, Denise Toney and Kelly D. Villalba.”

To see WOAC’s “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”exhibition online, click here.

In addition, it was great to see that Estrela and Jenkins received support from Rey Arvelo, Carol Black-Lemon, Deneise Smith and Patricia Mitrano and also collaborated with the West Orange Human Relations Commission, NAACP Oranges Maplewood Branch, West Orange Public Library, West Orange Youth Caucus, Bloomfield College and the Office of the West Orange Mayor & Township Administration.

The Music

The Artist Reception featured art and a live music performance.

As Gregory Burrus Productions, I was very happy to be the curator of the live music for this reception. I selected the jazz genre, considering the fact that “Jazz is a music genre that originated in the African-American communities of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with its roots in blues and ragtime. (See Wikipedia.)

UNPA. UN stamps commemorating International Jazz Day. Source: https://news.un.org/en/story/2014/04/467252-world-day-un-celebrates-historic-influence-jazz-connect-people-ignite-social

How does jazz connect to social change? According to this United Nations article:

“Jazz reinforces the role youth play for social change; Jazz encourages artistic innovation, improvisation, new forms of expression, and inclusion of traditional music forms into new ones; Jazz stimulates intercultural dialogue and empowers young people from marginalized societies.”   

Jazz is about improvisation, a blend of different cultures and, like America, Jazz states that we all belong here, have value here and can get along here. So what better way to celebrate a Juneteenth Black Lives Matter event than with this “uniquely American” form of music. It takes from West African culture, the work songs and spirituals of black slaves in America, and European instruments like the piano and the trumpet.

Performing at this BLM Reception in the West Orange Art Center, located adjacent to Luna Stage, was a trio of heavy hitter professional jazz musicians

The artists performing were: Lynette Sheard – Vocals, Brandon McCune – Piano and Marshall McDonald – Saxophone. They performed a medley of jazz tunes from the Great American Songbook that make you smile and tap your feet while you celebrated and enjoyed America’s original art form called Jazz.

A little background on the musicians.

Lynette Sheard – Vocalist

Lynette is a multi-talented and versatile vocalist with a five octave range and perfect pitch. She acts, produces, directs and is a vocal coach. Performances have been acknowledged in numerous publications including, The NY Times, Broadway World, The Record, Hot House, The Patch and The Chronicle. The Star-Ledger proclaimed that “Her voice reaches deep into one’s soul and finds a soft spot.” Lynette is also a director of the Mental Health Association of New Jersey. (See https://www.lynetteentertainment.com)

Brandon McCune – Pianist

This Chicago native makes his home in Newark, NJ. His musical studies began at age three, when his parents enrolled him in the Suzuki Method of Classical Piano. Brandon McCune is an experienced Professional Musician (pianist, organist, drummer, trumpeter, bassist, vocalist, and choir director). Brandon was selected through a national audition as a 1998-1999 U.S. Jazz Ambassador to Africa, where he traveled abroad representing the United States performing public and private concerts, master classes and workshops. (See https://www.facebook.com/brandon.mccune)

Marshall McDonald – Saxophonist

Marshall McDonald was lead alto for 18 years with Count Basie Orchestra, played sax on Paquito D’Rivera’s Latin Grammy-winning album, sax with Abdullah Ibrahim, and clarinet with Duke Ellington Orchestra. This Pittsburgh native’s career had a 10-year stint with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, and he performed at Carnegie Hall with Nancy Wilson, Tokyo Blue Note, Nice Jazz Festival, and with Illinois Jacquet, Tony Bennett, Bobby Caldwell, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Tony Bennett, Milt Jackson, Nina Simone, Rosemary Clooney and Aretha Franklin amongst others.  (See https://marshallmcdonald.com)

Looking Back – Going Forward

Combining the normal in-person experience along with an online component was — and is — extremely important during these COVID times, especially since there was a tremendous amount of work put into this exhibition. It’s great to see and know that the results of these curators, Maria and Carol, will have an impact for some time to come. It’s great to know this legacy of art and music will last far into the future.

WOAC Reception: June 29, 2021

Please enjoy the following shots and subsequent press from this exhibit.

Photos Rich Silivanch, Gregory Burrus

New 12 New Jersey

I’m excited to share that Della Crews of News 12 New Jersey gave a shout out to the artists and poets in the West Orange Arts Council’s “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!” exhibit and shared some of the photos taken by Rich Silivanch at the #Juneteenth artist’s reception last weekend in West Orange, NJ.

Additional coverage links and sources:

NJ.com – Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty

WO Patch – For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning

Essex News Daily – West Orange Arts Center presents hybrid ‘Black Lives Matter’ art experience

Facebook WOAC – Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!

TAPinto/West Orange – 22 Days Left to Visit West Orange Arts Council’s Black Lives Matter Exhibit

A truly beautiful event, gorgeous and inspiring artwork with some wonderful people. Read more here: https://essexnewsdaily.com/arts/98515

About Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus Productions produces and promotes local live music events and is also a social media manager, event developer and community partner that documents local community events in the Greater New Jersey and New York Area. Gregory Burrus reports and blogs about the local arts and entertainment scene, showcasing, photographing, and videotaping events and happenings as they occur all around the towns.

"ReVision and Respond" at The Newark Museum of Art Showcases NJ Artists

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Friday, June 18, 2021

What is “ReVision and Respond”? Now–Aug. 22, The Newark Museum of Art is hosting an exhibition featuring NJ artists from all across the state. Amy Hopwood, Associate Curator of Decorative Arts at The Newark Museum of Art, filled us in on the details. Watch the interview below:

Interview with Sean Hagerty (Shakespeare@)

Photography by Will O’Hare.

By Sonia Schnee | Posted Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Large, diverse casts. Epic stories. Intimate and unique settings. Thursday, March 28th will mark the first performance of Hamlet by the newly formed Shakespeare@ theatre company. Shakespeare@’s performances will be like no other Shakespearean performances you’ve seen. Why? Because they’re tailored specifically to Jersey City, its vibe, and its people. Check out our interview with Shakespeare@’s Founder & Artistic Director, Sean Hagerty, to learn about the inspiration behind Shakespeare@ and his love for Jersey City.

Hamlet will take place at Grace Church, March 28th through April 14th. For showtimes and tickets, visit www.shakespeare-at.org.

Where are you from originally, where are you based now?  

SEAN HAGERTY: I grew up in West Virginia. Now I’m based here in Jersey City.

Tell us about Shakespeare@. What is it, when did it start, what’s your role?

We tell epic stories in intimate and unique spaces. We’re committed to diverse, large casts, with a focus on international and cross-cultural exchange. The idea is that the ‘@’ places us. So for Hamlet we’re Shakespeare@ Grace Church. We want to showcase the venue as well as the production.

The idea had been knocking around for a while. Then a couple of years ago, a few things fell into place and it seemed right to give it a go.

My role is the Artistic Director. I run the company and direct the current production.

Tell us a little bit about your personal background and journey. What inspired you to start Shakespeare@? Why Shakespeare? What is it about Shakespeare’s works that still resonates with people of all ages today?

Funnily enough I was never a big fan of Shakespeare growing up. I had the typical middle school exposure to Shakespeare where you’re sat down, given a copy of Romeo & Juliet, and told to read it. Which is kind of like asking a child to appreciate Beethoven by handing them the sheet music. So for years I had no desire to perform or even see Shakespeare. But as a young actor, I was on tour with a show over in the UK and while we were in London, one of my cast-mates had an extra ticket to see a production of The Tempest and asked me if I wanted to go. I had no inclination at all but he cajoled me into coming and what I saw blew my mind. Here was something that was theatrical and poetic. At once hysterically funny and powerfully moving. At the risk of hyperbole, I can honestly say it was one of those moments you can look back on and recognize as a game changer in your life. I remember standing outside the theatre after and saying to myself, if this is what Shakespeare can be, then I have to figure out how to do that.

Shakespeare@ was partially inspired by my time in England. I lived, studied and worked there for many years and loved the storytelling I experienced there. When I came back what I found (when it came to Shakespeare) was really two options: Large casts in large-scale venues with mic’d actors, or small casts in black box venues presenting two, three, or four-person deconstructions of the plays. Now, that’s not to denigrate those kinds of theatre; I see them all the time and have enjoyed them, but it wasn’t what I wanted to do. I wanted large, diverse casts in intimate settings where the audience could reach out and touch the actors, feel a part of these mythic stories.

Why Shakespeare? Such a simple question and yet I’m not sure I can answer it. For 400 years people have been going back to his plays and finding inspiration or even solace. The stories, the characters, the language, all transcend the everyday and put us in touch with something larger, something truthful. Something we all have within us by virtue of being human. 

Why Jersey City? What kind of impact do you hope Shakespeare@’s productions will have on the local community and the region at large?

Oh, there was no question it was going to be Jersey City. My wife and I have lived here since 2008. We’ve seen the city go through some incredible growth and change. There’s always been a huge arts scene here, which now is only bigger and even more deserving of attention. The artists and community are incredibly supportive of each other. And I think, perhaps, living in the shadow of NYC across the river lends us a scrappiness and hometown feel that I wouldn’t want to be without.

I think what I can honestly say about this production is it’s going to be the kind of theatre that Jersey City residents are used to going across the river to see. We’ve got incredible people involved. We’re aiming to be a vital part of the cultural and social growth of this incredible city.

What can people expect from your production of HAMLET? How do you want people to feel when they’re watching it, and what do you hope they’ll do afterward?

The actors are phenomenal and every day I walk out of rehearsal excited to see what they do tomorrow. Our version of this story is definitely unique. I’m excited to share it and in such a stunning venue. I think even the most seasoned theatre-goers and Hamlet lovers are going to be pleasantly surprised by our production.

I don’t know that I’d want to put an expectation on what to feel. I hope they’ll be thrilled, challenged, moved, inspired.

As for what I hope they do afterwards, I don’t know… Donate? Haha.  

Is there anything else you'd like to add? 

Just a big thank you to Jersey City—the community really rallied behind us from the moment we began.

Finally, how can people follow and connect with Shakespeare@ (Facebook, Twitter, IG, website, etc.)?

Our website: shakespeare-at.org
Facebook: Shakespeare.at
Instagram: Shakespeare.at
Twitter: Shakespeare_at

But the best way to connect is to come see the play. Introduce yourself. Come talk to us! Get Involved. We love that!  

Interview with Chris Raia (Multimedia Artist)

All artwork property of Chris Raia. See more of Chris’s work at christopher.raia.art and christopher-raia-art.com.

By Nicolas Palermo | Posted Friday, December 21, 2018

Chris Raia is a visual artist from Freehold, NJ. By working in different mediums, Chris doesn’t allow himself to get boxed into one specific style. The subject matter of his work has a wide range as well. Taking influence from his favorite animators, he creates anything from still life charcoal drawings to abstract paintings. I spoke to Chris to learn more about his techniques and artistic influences.

The medium you choose to work with varies from one piece to the next (charcoal, watercolor, graphite, etc.). Do you have a favorite? How do you decide which medium you are going to use for the project at hand?

When it comes to a favorite, I’ve definitely been bouncing around, but ever since I  touched Watercolors a couple of years ago I’ve been hooked. I love how it naturally makes marks that are organic and gestural. When it comes to choosing a media, it often feels impulsive. I, of course, try to think about materiality and what using a certain medium over another may suggest, but sometimes being overly analytical can inhibit me from making art at all.

Do your portrait illustrations and paintings come from real life or your imagination?

Both. I think that to be able to draw from your head, you first have to draw from life so that you can build a vocabulary of visual information. It’s important to know the rules before you can effectively break them in your own work. If I don’t know what to draw then just I study what’s around me.

Another thing that stood out to me about your artwork is that you don’t stick to one particular style. It ranges from minimalist doodles to more complex and experimental oil paintings. Is it a conscious decision to create work that ranges in style from piece to piece or does it just turn out that way depending on your mood/mental state/emotions?

I think I bounce around a lot because I am somewhat indecisive and just want to learn everything. I think artists feel a pressure to quickly develop a brand that is easy to package and sell to an audience. Not to say that I won’t eventually have a more singular practice, but I think that artists owe it to themselves to take their time with finding their voice.

Who are some artists that you are influenced by? Do you attempt to drop hints of their work into your own art?

There’s a billion haha, but right now, I have been focusing on a lot of animators. Max Fleischer, Lillian Friedman Astor, Don Hertzfeldt, Pat McHale, Kazuo Oga, Satoshi Kon,  and Alexander Gellner to name a few favorites. I don’t think I intentionally drop hints of them in my work, but I think they always seep through. It’s actually most exciting when people tell me that my work reminds them of an artist that I’ve never even heard of. It’s always great to discover artists who care about the same ideas that I do.

Where can we find your artwork and follow you online?

I am on instagram at christopher.raia.art and my website is christopher-raia-art.com!

Interview with Artist Jill Carlock

By Nicolas Palermo | Posted Friday, May 25, 2018 

By painting images inspired by the reflections of light on objects, New Jersey-based painter Jill Carlock creates works that are not necessarily representational or non-objective.  Many of the outlines for the paintings come from shapes created by the light-reflections, but the radiant embellishments that layer over the outlines are purely from Jill’s imagination.  

The tropical colors Jill chooses to use coexist in harmony with the patterns and brush strokes to create a sense of rhythm.  But Jill’s paintings don’t all move to the same beat, as evident in the variations in forms and hues from one work to the next.  White paint is used sparingly, but its presence in the composition should not be ignored.

Like the very light that is the inspiration behind so many of Jill Carlock’s pieces, her work shines with energy, evoking memories of being a kid and seeing the colorful shapes that dance behind closed eyelids as you lay down in the sun.

Tell us a little about where you are from in NJ.  Do you enjoy living in that area?  Do you feel like living there has had an effect on your artwork?

I'm from Middletown, right in the center of the state near all the good beach stuff!  It was a really solid place to grow up, mainly because there were so many things to do.  Living here has influenced my work in terms of customizing surfboards and pretty much whatever I could get my hands on.  Driving down the street to a complete view of the NYC skyline also always keeps me motivated to work.  Of course, the beautiful sunrises and sunsets also make for instant inspiration.  Overall it is a great place to come home to, but it is definitely time to broaden my horizons and see what else is out there. 

What are your favorite mediums to work with?

I primarily fluctuate between oil and acrylic paint on canvas.  When I feel that I need to keep things moving and a change of scenery I'll turn to painting on griptape and other found materials at that given time.  I also enjoy playing around in the realm of textile design by using fabric prints of my paintings and incorporating those 3D elements into forms of wearable art.

To me, your artwork has a very free and vibrant personality.  Do you go into a project with an outline in mind for the painting or is it spontaneous?  Do you use a combination of both approaches?

Initially, I started using loose sketches that I made from light reflections on square pieces of plastic, reflective material.  With each painting, I began to develop my own sense of shape and composition, almost like forming my own personal vocabulary for my work.  Lots of trial and error, but eventually learning which shapes or colors go well together.  I'd say I use a combination as of right now, mainly because although there may be some shaped sections planned out, the majority of the time color is what I tend to have more freedom with.

I love the color schemes that you use for your paintings.  Who or what is your color inspiration?  What combinations of colors do you find yourself most attracted to? 

Thank you!  I have lots of inspiration from just being very fond of colorful things my whole life.  Bright color has always represented boldness and confidence to me.  The human eye just cannot resist it -- kind of like sweets.  Fruit, candy and desserts all share that one thing in common -- aside from a few gnarly trips to the dentist.  I find a lot of comfort in a nice, smooth gradient.  Dandelion yellow into a fleshy pink is most likely the most appealing to me at the moment.  I do enjoy more toned down, sexy colors like reddish browns, dark grays and burgundy. ;o

I’d like to know more about your griptape design work.  What was your introduction to skateboarding?  What is it about skateboarding that influences you to incorporate it into your artwork?

Skateboarding was very present while I was growing up, although I never truly stepped on to a board and gave it my all until these past couple years.  My brother was very into it, and we had a halfpipe in our backyard.  I did surf for the majority of my youth into adulthood, which took up most of my time aside from art.  I feel like skateboarding has a direct connotation to my work in more of a conceptual way.  It requires full confidence, commitment, and acceptance of failure.  I feel like that is the exact way that I feel when I am working and feel hesitant to make a big change where there is "no turning back."  It's all just a matter of pushing yourself.

Where can we find and follow your work online?

My website is www.jilliancarlock.com.
Instagram @jillcarlock

Interview with Graphic Designer/Printmaker Tin Vu

By Nicolas Palermo | Posted Friday, May 25, 2018

Art and sports are not often discussed together.  However, creating art and playing sports share many similarities.  Sculptors and painters have studied the human figure for centuries.  There is a great deal of grace and beauty in the movements involved in a sport.  Similarly, artists utilize the human body’s physical capabilities when creating.  Look no further than Jackson Pollock wildly (yet equally methodically) flinging paint onto a naked canvas.

With this being said it is no surprise that Tin Vu, a graphic designer and printmaker from Cherry Hill, NJ  is able to blend his love of sports so easily with his art.  I spoke to Tin to get a better understanding of his influences and where he gets the concepts for his work.

Where are you located in NJ?  Do you like that particular area, or are you eager to move out?

I’m from Cherry Hill, NJ, born and raised.  I do actually enjoy this area and don’t mind living here, but I’m willing to explore other possibilities for my career as a graphic designer.

What mediums of artwork do you work in?  Which one is your favorite?

I have experience in painting and charcoal, but I primarily work digitally for my illustrations.  Occasionally, I also turn those illustrations into screen prints. Digital has quickly become my favorite medium because I have a flat color style that is much easier to fill in with on a computer than by hand.

I’ve noticed that you often blend themes of your love for sports (basketball) and music (hip-hop) into your creative output.  Is this something you’ve always done?  Does incorporating sports and music into your work come naturally or is it a conscious decision?

My love for sports and hip-hop leaking into my artwork is definitely something that I have always done just because it feels so natural.  When I’m given a blank canvas to create a piece that I’m passionate about and am truly invested in, my mind always drifts to the subcultures that I am a part of—which also involves breaking, urban dance, esports, and skating.

As a musician, I often gravitate toward certain albums more than others based on the album cover artwork.  Are there any particular album covers that you have always loved?

Some of my favorite album covers of all time include: Unknown Pleasures (Joy Division), The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me (Brand New), The September Wind (Naoya Matsuoka), Coexist (The XX), Acid Rap (Chance the Rapper), Madvillainy (Madvillain), Wolf Deluxe Edition (Tyler the Creator), All American Trash (BROCKHAMPTON), Currents (Tame Impala), The Low End Theory (A Tribe Called Quest), and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (Kanye West).  I could go on forever because I love album covers as an art form so much.

I really enjoy your screen printing work.  I believe that printmaking is an underrated method of creating art.  Is there a particular reason why you often choose to work with screen printing?

I work with screen printing so much because it makes so much sense to add the flat colors of my work layer by layer.  It really is an underrated medium that can go much further than just t-shirts (shout out to Dave).

Where can we find your work and follow you online?

You can find my work at tinvudesign.com, @tinvudesign on Instagram or facebook.com/tinvudesign.

Thanks for the interview, really enjoyed these questions!

Interview with Artist Jenna Corso

By Nicolas Palermo | Posted Friday, May 4, 2018

Jenna Corso is a visual artist from Belmar, NJ who channels her love of all things Mother Nature into hand-made jewelry and paintings. 

Art truly does imitate life, but in Jenna’s case, “life” isn’t used to define “life events” or “existence” but rather “life” in its most literal sense.  That is, things that are living, such as insects, snakes, and vegetation. 

There is a great deal of beauty in Jenna’s work.  Her eye for detail allows her insect-inspired jewelry to glow with a quality that resonates with art and nature-lovers alike.  I spoke to Jenna to get an insight into her inspirations, childhood and artistic process. 

Tell us about where you live in NJ.  Do you enjoy the environment you live in?  Do you think it has an effect on your creativity?

I live in Belmar, NJ.  I grew up 5 minutes from the beach.  Living in New Jersey has had an immense impact on my art since most of my subjects focus around nature.  You can go from hiking in the mountains to watching the sunset at the beach in the same day.  It’s the vast scenery and landscapes like this that continue to inspire me every day.

I have absolutely no experience with jewelry-making and very little experience with sculpture.  I am very curious to know what the process is when making your insect-shaped necklaces and rings.  What is the first step?  Where do you go from there?

Once I have my insect, I start by making a mold of it using a Jeltrate substance.  Once I have the mold, I can begin to pour melted wax into it.  When that hardens, I can cast the wax insect into any metal using the lost wax method and from there it becomes a piece of jewelry with some cleaning and polishing and final details.

I remember as a little kid I was obsessed with nature.  If I wasn’t outside catching bugs I was watching Animal Planet on TV.  I think that very young kids often gravitate toward things related to insects and animals because it sparks curiosity, and I find it inspirational that your love for living creatures is still a part of your life, as demonstrated by your artwork.  Did you have a similar experience growing up?  Has the general aesthetic of animals and insects always been something you take inspiration from?

Yes.  When I was younger I loved being outside.  I used to catch crickets in my backyard with my brother and turn over bricks to find roly-polys.  I always had a fascination with nature.  As I grew older I lost that interest in bugs until one day, while I was walking to work, I found a dead cicada.  I remember standing on the sidewalk with a dead bug in my hand thinking how underrated its beauty was.  While most people are repulsed by bugs, it became my mission to show just how beautiful they can be.  I thought, “how can I repurpose this and give it a new life?” and that is how it all got started.

Do you own any pets?  Have they been the subject of any of your works of art?

I do.  I have a pug who is the subject in many of my photos.  He sits so patiently in front of the camera.      

Where can we find your artwork online? 

My website is https://thelemunhed.wixsite.com, and I’m selling on Etsy @thelemunhedjewelry.  I post photos of what I’m currently working on @thelemunhed on Instagram. 

Interview with Artist Zachary Cavaluzzi

Copyright Zachary Cavaluzzi

By Nicolas Palermo | Posted Friday, May 4, 2018

         For decades, comic book art was considered “low brow” -- that is, the artwork used in comic books, no matter how beautifully drawn and inspiring, is not “real art.”  This mindset has (sort of) changed over the years, largely in part due to authors and artists like Allen Moore, R. Crumb and Art Spiegelman who displayed the brilliance of telling stories through the medium of comic books, or graphic novels.  Still, art historians constantly ignore the importance of comic book art in the grand scheme of art history.  To these art snobs, I say: your loss!

         Something tells me local comic illustrator/author and multi-media artist Zachary Cavaluzzi would agree.  Being able to tell a story -- a GOOD story -- through both words and art is not an easy task, but to Zac, it seems to come naturally.  I spoke to Zac about his creative process, his inspirations and what we can expect to see from him next.

Where are you based in New Jersey?  Does that particular area inspire you or are you eager to relocate?

Middletown is a low-key suburban commuter town that has frequently influenced my art.  I see lots of really interesting stuff happening in Middletown, like a growing art and music community and a pop cultural vibe that fluctuates between love for Kevin Smith movies and Bruce Springsteen.  In my comic, Exodus 420, I used Middletown as a motif to emphasize the characters' current situation of being in the "Middle."  The story is a coming-of-age horror slasher reflecting on technology and drug dependency.  I might relocate to the city eventually but until the graphic novel is done I don’t plan on leaving.  Exodus 420 is part 1 of 4, and I’ve just finished up the inks for part 2.

Talk a little about your comic creating process.  What is the first step after you come up with an idea?  What comes after that?

The idea usually starts as a demented joke that goes way too far and develops arms and legs and learns to walk on its own.  Eventually, it learns to talk, and that’s when I start to see things.  First, I like to start with rendered character designs/style pages, then structure/rough-write a story and draw.  After that, it’s a dance with Photoshop.

I tend to get turned off by comics that are overly text heavy -- but funnily enough, reading comics can get boring if they rely solely on the artwork.  You work has a great balance of these two elements.  Is this a conscious decision?  Do you prefer the writing process or creating the illustrations?

Thank you, it was something I was very conscious of.  I never really considered myself a writer until I started drawing comic books.  It has made me very conscious of integration of text and image because it's arguably the most important part.  While drawing out the main inks, I usually leave out the speech bubbles but leave breathing room in the panels.  This allows me to fuss with the positioning of speech bubbles while not locking me into a must-follow script.  Once the first writing draft is done, I begin writing a visual narrative that follows the writing based on structure, but the dialogue is mostly separate and changeable.  I so much enjoy the drawing/coloring part more than writing, but when they come together, that’s the best feeling.

I remember reading MAD Magazine as a kid and thinking “this is so weird, and funny, and gross.”  That was my “light bulb” moment.  I had never seen artwork like that, and I was immediately hooked.  Did you have a similar moment growing up with comic books?  What were the first comics you became engrossed in?

Mad Magazine is a monumental influence on me.  In many ways, it was also a light bulb for me as well.  Mad introduced me to pop-culture through movie satire strips and political criticism, in addition to structural themes of duality in Spy vs. Spy and existential crisis gags in the Lighter Side/Darker Side strips.  Those Mad compilation books were the first comics I became obsessed with, followed by Calvin and Hobbes and The Tick.  In middle school, to better understand the comic’s flow and develop my visual eye, I would rip off funny miscellaneous strips from Mad, draw them out, and put them in the school newspaper.  It wasn’t until I read the works of Allen Moore and Frank Miller that I understood the strength comics can have with storytelling and how similar it is to cinema.

What projects are you currently working on?

I am currently in the midst of the first illustrated/word draft of a series (to be turned into a graphic novel) called Tales From My Dad’s House.  The title is a spin-off of Tales From The Crypt, another huge inspiration.  I released part 1 (Exodus 420) in October of 2017 and will release part 2 (Void) in October 2018.  I’m also working up new large-scale tape art pieces to be displayed.  I will be showing my work at the Restart the Arts Festival on April 21st, Ocean Academy.

Where can we find your work online? 

I have an online comic and a gallery viewer of most of my tape art on my website as well as a 5-page preview of Exodus 420.  Thanks for the interview, Nic.

Website: bardotnj.com

Instagram: @bardotnj // @snapchatisevil

Etsy: bardotnj