Interview with Dominican Gospel Singer Canta Krystal

Sunday, July 13, 2014

 

“The whole purpose is not to mix in, or blend in, the whole idea is to revolutionize and expand.”  Canta Krystal

Wauw...... Profound!

Being of Dutch and Spanish Caribbean decent, one of my biggest challenges was to be able to “FIT IN”. The Caribbean Entertainment industry is ruled by an IRON FIST by the one island that comes to peoples from around the world as it pertains to matters of Caribbean ANYTHING – Jam-a-ica, Jamaica. Secondly, would definitely be the self-proclaimed land of ‘OIL AND MUSIC’, however, world and Caribbean proclaimed home base of the BEST Caribbean Carnival (HANDS DOWN), Trinidad & Tobago. Ayati, [HAITI] in popular opinion would most likely come in THIRD place, giving us the widely popular and the smooth sounds of KOMPA music and to round out what I believe to be the TOP TEN most popular islands, T&T’s fellow SOCA and CALYPSO islands, Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia and proprietors of oh, so sweet and melodic sounds of ZOUK and French sister islands to [Haiti], Dominica and of course, our U.S.V.I’s UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS.

It’s very seldom that the Spanish islands of PUERTO RICO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AND CUBA get recognized (or) included as part of the Caribbean. It is an even more rare that the DUTCH “ABC” & “SSS” islands (which are ARUBA, BONAIRE, CURACAO/SABA, STATIA AND ST.MAARTEN) would be in a category of being “WEST INDIAN”. I would feel so aloof and get ‘lost in the sauce’ –ESPECAILLY, when I was working event production w/ 93.5 FM IRIE JAM RADIO I fast pace conversations spoken in Jamaican patois [having to do one of those faint giggles (DON’T FRONT! You know you have done it before! When EVERYONE else in the room is laughing at something that COMPLETELY went over your head!). The feeling to ‘belong’, however, is indeed a disguise for us to be comfortable, complacent and feeds our fear of the UNKNOWN and paralyzes our ‘Leaps of Faith’. Unfortunately, those are only distractions of the unfathomable greatness that we are able to achieve, if we would just act on it, and believe.

Valuable, innovative and revolutionary in her own right; Canta Krystal, Dominican gospel- child prodigy turned multi- faceted "secular" artist, Canta Krystal, responsible for the introductory quote, but, also putting "sabor nuevo" in the mainstream music industry, REPPIN for us LATINA CAREER revolutionaries everywhere. Raised by busy, but supportive, single mother, who noted her daughter's talent from the young age of 9 (along with constant reminding and at times boastful bragging from HER NEÑA tambìen) who insisted that she needs to be doing EXACTLY what her role models J.LO and BEYONCE  were doing!

“Out of the mouths of babes, indeed.”

Mama Canta" immediately got young KRYSTAL involved with their church's youth ministering activities such as, the choir. Here, she effortlessly sang soprano, due to her mimicking MARIAH CAREY songs, note- for-note. Her outstanding performance landed her an invitation to participate in her industry debut on Janice Kapp Perrys’ “Me Encanta Ver El Templo” (I love to see the Temple) in the midst of singing, she also performed with major TELEMUNO live televised events through another art she hold dear to her heart and does well, dance, for the biggest Latin music artist such as Fulanito and “SUAVEMENTE” singer, Elvis Crespo, just to name a few. That only ignited and fed Krystal’s hunger to make it BIG. She was on the hunt for producers to work with. Some, due to her undeniable exotic ‘drag you in’ look, and evolving talent to match, topped with her JEFE [BOSS] self-managed demeanour, where as she puts it a waste of time. However, it’s a catch twenty-two because of those very same reasons, she landed work with the BEST OF THE BEST, as it goes for producers in the LATIN INDUSTRY such as NITIDO EN EL NINTENDO and A & X, signed artist, co-singer of/with DON OMAR and producer of famed hit ‘DANZA KUDURO’ – Theme song to FAST AND THE FURIOUS, that still to this day has EVERYONE, of all races, going LOCA in the club.

Outside of singing and the Latin market, Canta Krystal has proved that she is on a train to NON-STOP ultimate success. She graced her model-esque presence in a recent cameo in NEW YORK RAPPERS Lloyd Banks and Troy Ave ‘YOUR STYLE’ as she described her experience as ‘GREAT!’ she makes it very clear that THE MUSIC, will always come first! And she makes it CRYSTAL CLEAR with her hit ‘YO SE’.

STARLISA: “WHY ‘YO SE’?”

CK: Why Yo Se,  Because "I KNOW" That is the meaning of "YO SE" I guess that goes back in relating to men because a lot of these songs now and days are all about what men have. The big house, nice car, flashy chains ext. As women, don't we all know this already? In the song I’m letting the man shine because as his right hand, I want him to, so I'm saying I know Papi! I get more into detail on the second verse when I explain how I have it too. So it’s kind of like ’yeah… whatever’. Don’t think you’re the only one

Now, TU SABES, Krystal is a TRUE New Yorker and you can #jumpinthecab and catch this CHICA hanging out at trendy WASHINGTON HEIGHTS lounge ‘MIA’ filled with great food, amazing hookah and an unique drink menu or the CLASSIC and LEGENDARY CASA DE MOFONGO. When I asked this Latina SPIT-FIRE about her love life, she candidly replied

“Love life? What’s that? With work alone, I feel like there is never time. Then you involve Family and maybe one close friend and there’s no time ever if you are really dedicated. But on a more real, not like if I actually try I find myself always dating someone involved with the music. It tends to be the only thing I let myself be around anyway time wise. And, then it doesn't work out because of all the extra things that get involved in a MAN’S world with music. Groupies, Money, Power… men don't like a woman to be "MORE POWERFUL" than them in the music, Or anything for that fact. I guess egos kick in, pero, honestly, I could care less.

What a DIVA, Well said. I love talking to Krystal even further as we get into more questions about our related Spanish Caribbean culture of DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, so let’s get back to the food to the two things that MAKE the DR; THE FOOD AND THE WOMEN!

STARLISA: “WHAT IS ONE THING THAT DOMINICAN WOMEN CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT?”

CK: The one thing a Dominican Woman cannot live without is her plate called "los 3 Golpe" which contains Platano, Queso, Y Salami. (Plantains, Fried cheese, and Salami)

STARLISA: “EVERY DOMINICAN WOMAN WANT TO FEEL ____________”

CK: I think every Dominican Women just likes to always look sexy and have fun. What man doesn't want to be with a woman who strives to look sexy every day and smile? Just enjoy life.

STARLISA: “WHO IS CANTA KRYSTAL?”

CK: The CANTA KRYSTAL BRAND is very simple. Canta means sing in Spanish. Everywhere I go People ask me to sing. Canta Krystal. My name is Krystal, but now you know which one you’re talking about. The one that sings.

You better saaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannggg, Krystal!

  SharLisa Peterson

 

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Interview with Guyanese Activist and Blogger Alysia Simone

Monday, July 7, 2014

SELECTA!!! Pull up di Chune!

REWIND AND COME AGAIN....

W

e hear our favorite local and international Reggae and Soca Djs/Vjs and sound systems use this term when the song “dem so sweeeeeet”, that it needs to be stopped and played from the beginning one more time! We, the people, "get on" so bad to the gesture of a "PULL UP" OR "REWIND AND COME AGAIN" it instantaneously takes the FETE, Jam, 'BASHMENT' or Dance to a whole different level!

Taking not only CARIBBEAN AMERICAN CULTURE to a "Higher Level" with one of my new favorite blogs, RACA (rewindandcomeagain.com) 'American Born, Caribbean Bred' Editor In Chief, the dedicated and multi-faceted, Miss Alysia Simone. Alysia, on top of having one of the most beloved and captivating blogs on the Net, also serves as project manager to international Guyanese Youth Art program, The WITNESS PROJECT (www.witnessprojectinternational.com), beckoning Guyanese youth to practice amnesty in their communities by taking their favorite artistic hobbies and turning them into activities that not only keep them and inspire their peers to stay out of trouble but enables them to be the ones to change not only their local GT area, but the Caribbean and the world.   

I, encourage and challenge you to be inspired by this Q & A, as a personal WITNESS, I know you will be moved to check out not only her pages and projects, but probably to the closest Guyanese restaurant or friends' house as she shares her FAVORITE in her GT homeland cuisine and places to #jumpinthecab and LIME (hang out) in NYC!

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HAHA, I love that name, REWIND AND COME AGAIN! Where did you come up with this name, how does it apply to your blog?

In the 90's, there was an audio clip that selectas (DJs) would play that called out this phrase. So while spinning at a party. the selecta would drop a hot track and everyone would lose their minds. He'd then cut the music, play this clip, then drop the track again. Everyone in the dance would go wild! Yelling, jumping, banging on the walls. It was sheer madness and I loved it! Whenever I think of my youth, I always hear this phrase playing in the background. So when I started my blog, which began as an online diary of sorts, it was a no-brainer that I'd use this phrase as its title.

You have an amazing initiative working with Guyanese youth, what is it called and give us the inside SCOOP & what are the services.

For going on four years now, I've been a volunteer project manager for WITNESS Project(witnessprojectinternational.org), a youth arts initiative based in Guyana but with a small team here in New York. Our mission is to use the arts to change the culture of violence in Guyana and throughout the Caribbean. We started with a poster project done in conjunction with the global art project Inside Out (insideoutproject.net) and have since grown since. 

In our second year we had a weekly youth page, WE SEE, in the leading Guyanese newspaper, Stabroek News, that ran for one year. In our third year the youth wrote, filmed and directed a short film about family violence that won an honorable mention in the Paul Robeson Awards at the Newark Black Film Festival and will also be screened at the Belize International Film Festival in July. This year the kids are filming two PSAs that address street harassment and are launching a youth blogging program. 

I'm blown away by what these youth has accomplished. They are an amazing group of kids that will change the face of the Guyana and the Caribbean in the coming years.

Why do you think the ARTS is just important as academics? 

Pure academics equip you with the skills needed to build a life for yourself. But the an arts education equips you with the skills to fully participate in and truly enjoy the life that you have built. The arts encourage out of the box thinking and creative approaches to situations. It also enables people with a way to access and express their thoughts and emotions that they may not otherwise be able to do. To truly enjoy this life, it's important to become a multi-faceted person and the arts is one way that that can be achieved.

What, other than your own Caribbean culture that intrigues you and why.?

I'm a huge bookworm. Sci-fi and Fantasy are my favorite genres (Game of Throne anyone?), though I'll read almost anything. As a kid, I used to ask for books for Christmas instead of toys. Reading is like entering another world for me. I still remember my mother asking me why I buy books. Why don't I go to the library. My books (yes, real books not the digital versions) are some of my most treasured possessions. They're like old friends who I visit with over and over again. 

What's the most proudest you've felt as a Guyanese woman? 

It was during the first year of WITNESS project. When our poster project was complete, the youth was publicly recognized by the founder of the Inside Out project, the French artist, JR. To know that this international powerhouse in the art world saw what we were doing and personally took the time to congratulate the kids on their work was amazing.

What are a few of your favorite dishes from GT?

#1 is Pepperpot. It's a dark brown Amerindian stew that gets its color and flavor from Casreep. You can eat it with rice, but it's best with bread (Wonderbread white bread is my favorite to eat it with - that's my American side showing LOL). It's generally only made on Easter and Christmas. I'm determined to learn to make it this year so I can have it whenever I want. 

I love curry with Dal Puri. In particular curry duck, which I've only ever had when visiting Guyana. The curry chicken is a close second, but there's something about the taste of duck. And plain Roti is good, but the split pea filling of the Puri makes it extra yummy.

Last but not least is Cheesstraw, a pastry made of cheese, flour and butter. And not just any Cheesestraw. My mother's Cheesestraw is the best, hands down. That's another recipe I'm going to learn to make this year.

Where are your favorite places to LIME in NY?

I don't go out too often. I'm very much a homebody, preferring quiet times with friends at home or in a backyard somewhere. But every couple of weeks I does feel to get up and out so you might find me at Mangoseed Restaurant in Brooklyn. The food is amazing. Plus, I love the backyard area to chat with during the summers. 

Franklin Park, also in Brooklyn, for lunch with friends is cool. I  found out recently that they have a pretty cool party scene on some weekends. Very diverse crowd and good music. 

And of course “my go” to sushi spot, Cherin on East 6th in the city. My crew and I hit it up every few weeks for the evening special. It's small but a great spot to chat and hang. Plus, it's BYOB. Can't go wrong with that.

And when I just want to dance, I head to Bob's Bar in the LES. I wish they would expand, it's way too small to dance properly, but the DJ is amazing! Kills it every time.

Take a breath... You close your eyes... open them back up... You are on a plane about touchdown in GUYANA. What's the first thing  that comes to your mind, (in one word)...

Beautiful.

By: SharLisa Peterson

 

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Interview With Trinidadian Journalist Cheri

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

H

er story is as intriguing, fierce and beautiful as her sweet, sweet T & T born and bred looks and style. Cherisse, lovingly known as CHERI works relentlessly and is highly respected as a freelance journalist after working in numerous major media powerhouses all over the "Land of oil and music". Cheri from her views on taking risks and "leaps of faith", what is her favourite pastime to her featured, interviewed with a superstar that you maybe shocked that wasn't her BEST experience  to her travels to New York, Miami and her home away from, my home ST. MAARTEN.

A woman truly after my own heart and inspiration, enjoy CHERI in this Q&A as her pleasant and convivial personality jumps at you through the page and into your heart, leaving you humming about this media jewel from The "Hummingbird" Island.

 

Where are you from?

Born and raised in sweet Trinidad.

Describe all the entrepreneurial hats that you wear. Which is your favourite?

I am a freelance journalist and have been in the media industry for the past 11 years. I started my career in television at Trinidad and Tobago Television (TTT) as a trainee/junior reporter. I then worked in radio at WMJX 100.5FM as a senior news editor/ announcer and then at The Trinidad Guardian Newspaper as a Senior Features Reporter. I have since won several awards for my stories. I write features, news, news features and business articles; as well as bios and promotional articles for artistes and up and coming entrepreneurs.....I dabble in everything really as I am a well rounded writer. I also do articles for various local, regional and international magazines. I am a voice talent for radio and television advertisements. During my 2 year foray as a freelancer, I have covered assignments overseas in St Maarten, Jamaica and Miami. My own media company – What’s Trending Media and Marketing Company - is also in the works.

Although each experience has its pros and cons my favourite is probably print media because writing is my passion.

What inspired you to become a journalist?

It’s kinda weird because growing up I wanted to be a lawyer or psychologist. The media sort of happened to me, but I realized a long time ago that it is exactly what I was meant to do. I cannot see myself doing an 8 to 4. God makes no mistakes.

You said you have been to St.Maarten and how it reminds you of HOME, how so?

Yes. I visited St Maarten for the first time two years ago to work as a media specialist alongside my friend and Bahamian freelance journalist, Inderia Saunders, to help coordinate and launch the very first technology center in the island called Computech. It was a great experience and I loved every minute of it. St Maarten has such a Trini vibe to it - From the warmth and friendliness of the people who you meet casually in the street, to the delicious food. I visited both the French and Dutch sides...but I must say the Dutch part of the island is my favourite.

"IF YOU DON'T TAKE RISKS, YOU WILL ALWAYS WORK FOR SOMEONE WHO DOES" What risks have you taken in your career that has placed you in a more successful position?

Life is all about taking risks… My biggest risk, thus far was leaving the Trinidad Guardian after 4 plus years to go it alone as a freelancer. At the Guardian (as it's commonly called) I wrote on a myriad of topics including fashion, music, health and human interest. However, I felt the urge to do more to realise my full potential. Leaving a permanent job where my salary is sure at the end of the month was deemed 'crazy' by some of my peers but I did it anyway. I have learnt a lot. I have no regrets.




Cheri Interviewing Chris Brown

You have stated that you loved interviewing Chris Brown, Lionel Richie, Maxi Priest and TNT HEART THROBS Kes and The Band, who haven't you enjoyed interviewing and why?

I have interviewed so many local, regional and international personalities - some are very pleasant, others not so much. If I had to choose one person I didn't enjoy interviewing would be Keyshia Cole. I covered her concert in Trinidad a few years ago and I went backstage to ask her some questions for my story and she wasn't very accommodating. I don’t know, maybe she was tired or something??

What is your PERFECT "Lime"?

This always comes as a shock to many people, but I'm not a party person at all. I have covered so many events and fetes as a features reporter, but that's just me doing my job. I prefer more laid back limes actually. My perfect lime will be anywhere with my close (crazy) friends just having fun with lots of laughter. I always say the company trumps the venue. Oh! And somewhere with plenty nice food...I love to eat!

In one word, explain how you feel about being a beautiful and a SUCCESSFUL Trinidadian woman

Empowered.

 

By: SharLisa Peterson

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Meet Model and Singer Angelica Legacy

Monday, June 16, 2014

 

N

uyorican- [as defined by the Wikipedia] is a portmanteau of the terms "New York" and "Puerto Rican" and refers to the members or culture of the Puerto Rican diaspora located in or around New York State especially the New York City metropolitan area, or of their descendants (especially those raised or still living in the New York area). This term could be used for Puerto Ricans living in other areas in the Northeast outside New York State.

Popular Nuyoricans would be many of our most successful and powerful people not only in our Hispanic community but the world, such as: Jennifer Lopez, Rosie Perez, Mark Anthony and Adrien Bailion. Although, our featured estrella de Puerto Rico isn't from New York City she possess that fire, exotic beauty and desire to make “IT” in the "concrete jungle" via her many talents such as modelling, writing and singing (to name a few) our gyal Angelica is determined to create a LEGACY that we won't forget any time soon

As I am, "mixed" Dutch Antillean with Dominican (and Mexican Indian) I have a few daily SAYINGS IN PAPIAMENTO and SPANISH.  What ARE some of yours?

I tend to say "Tú sabes", "Ay díos mio", "mira!" and I like to tease the non Spanish speaking guys by calling them papi! Lol

 

 

The PR day parade is this month! What are usually your plans?

Actually, I've never attended the PR day parade. This may be the year I do attend. You never know!

 

Puerto Ricans in NYC are called Nuyoricans. What was your upbringing and household like as a Nuyorican?

Honestly, I don't consider myself as a Nuyorican, I always thought you had to be born in NYC to qualify. LOL 

 

What are the current projects you are working on?
I'm currently designing a shoe line for ToyGal Shoes of South Africa, Spokesmodel for I AM Culture, recording an album and most proud accomplishment I've joined a charity to help foster children.

That's amazing! You do quite a few things. Which is your favourite?

Singing by far!

 

How long have you been singing?
All my life. I grew up in church singing.

 

What are you most proud of being LATINA?
We are a diverse race of people. I love that I can break down stereotypes usually people assume I’m Middle Eastern or Indian. I love my heritage. My father was born on the island, so I am the first generation born in the USA. I've met so many people in life, that wish they were Hispanic. I thank God that He chose to birth me in this culture as a Puerto Rican woman. 

 

In one word, describe where you see the ANGELICA LEGACY brand in three years.
GLOBAL

 

Where else have you been featured and how can we keep up with the legacy movement.

Bravotv.com, connect with me via social media on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. It's really me and I do respond. I like talking and interacting with people.

 

SharLisa Peterson

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Interview With Haitian Upcoming Painter Bianca Belve

Friday, June 13, 2014

S

he owned the hallways. Her confident and to some, intimidating presence accompanied by her full, long and thick hair and dreamy voluptuous figure could be felt and respected all over Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens, New York. Bianca Belve from then has always in some way, shape or form was a force to be reckoned with.

I had the pleasure of running into one of my HS "play" cousins (you know when you are super close with someone or have the same physical attributes as a friendly acquaintance in our community they become 'FamLay') recently during a quick in between jobs lunch at Friday's.

Excitingly catching up with one another, especially on us embarking on our hobby turned professional careers to my surprise, she was now Bianca the artist, a painter! I was left speechless as she showed me pictures of her work and I knew we HAD to #jumpinthecab avec mon amie. 

Check out this candid and awe inspiring interview as I display not only the masterpiece that is her art, but, her life. Ladies and Gentlemen... Mademoiselle Belve.

 

WHAT IS YOUR NATIONALITY?
I'm Haitian

WHERE ARE YOU ORIGINALLY FROM AND WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW?

Queens, New York & I still live in Queens.

DESCRIBE YOUR CHILDHOOD (RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUR PARENTS, YOUR SCHOOLING, YOUR DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS AT THE TIME ETC, FRIENDS ETC.)

I am an only child so being alone has always been something that I used to. Since I can remember my mother has always been a huge support system, she always kept me busy while placing me into all types of dance classes and sports. Our relationship has always been special, since I can remember till today she is my absolute best friend and number one supporter. When I was younger, I wanted to play basketball and when I broke my ankle that dream sadly enough was shattered. I did continue to stay active, although I couldn't play basketball I joined the track team to strengthen my leg, cheerleading it was all a great fun in high school. All of the people that I surround myself with are friends that I have had forever, I can go back all the way to the 3rd grade and we are very close still till this very day.

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO HAITI?

Yes. I haven't been to Haiti in a couple of years, but I can say I loved it when I did visit and hope to return very soon.

WHAT MADE YOU START YOUR ARTISTRY? AND WHY PAINTING IN PARTICULAR?

I was always interested in art coming from an artistic family where some make music, others paint I honestly think it runs in my blood. I decided to take a class and all we did was paint, listen to soft music and drink wine. It was such a great time and from that day on I continued to paint. I enjoyed how calming and therapeutic it was and still is for me till today.

DESCRIBE A TIME OF TURMOIL THAT YOU WENT THROUGH THAT CHANGED YOUR FOR THE BETTER 

My relationship with my father was basically non-existent and it took a really huge burden on me while growing up, my mission was to speak to him and build a relationship. I decided to reach out a couple of years ago and we did meet however, no relationship was build I guess he didn't feel the same way as I did. "Every little girl needs her daddy" When I realized that we would never have that bond that I yearned for, yes it hurt, but, with time I allowed myself to continue to be great after all it really is his loss. This has changed me for the better because with or without him in my life I will be successful.

WHAT WAS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT ESTABLISHING YOUR SELF AS AN ARTIST?

The hardest thing would have to be getting people to take you seriously everyone does something and not everyone is serious and sometimes it's hard to distinguish the two. However, being that I have over 90 pieces in 6 months should set me aside from many.

WHAT WAS THE EXPERIENCE OF YOUR FIRST SALE OF A PAINTING, HOW DID IT GO DOWN?

I recently sold my first piece and it happened because I was emotionally attached to it, being that it was made for someone I use to date. However, I decided to part with it and some other pieces and it was the first to go. It was a very nice experience, very humbling and the words of encouragement from the buyer who is also a very good friend made the experience very sweet.

WERE THERE NEY-SAYERS WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED YOUR JOURNEY? AND WHAT IS THERE OPINION NOW?

Yes, of course anytime you want to do something to better yourself there always seems to be people who think you can't do it and you’re wasting your time. I never fed into the idea of not making my dreams reality EVER since I was young so it would be tough to really discourage me. Now that I have been exposing myself more and getting more exposure I don't think they have any choice but to respect it. Basically, I am living proof that if you want something bad enough you have to work hard and eventually you will be recognized for your work.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMAN SUFFERING FROM A SERIOUS BREAKUP?

I would simply say I know it hurts, it hurts to have to leave someone you put time, energy and love in but you have to leave with a smile because god really makes no mistakes he doesn't put people in situations they can't handle and this too is a learning lesson. It's ok to hurt just don't let it consume you write it down in a journal, cry it out and 6 months or even a year from now go back and I promise you will ask yourself what in the world was I thinking.

AFTER YOU FINISH A PAINTING HOW DO YOU FEEL? 

After I finish painting I feel almost empty I try to put my feelings and emotions in every painting, so if I'm hurt before I paint I won't be hurting after. 

HOW DO YOU FEEL PROUD AND CONNECTED TO YOUR HAITIAN CULTURE?

I love being Haitian! I really do, from the culture, the language and the food, ohhhh my, if you have never had Haitian food your truly cheating yourself. I wear my Haitian flag proudly everyday letting everyone know that I am Haitian and my family, both my mother and father’s side have built a name for themselves in the Haitian community, I myself must live up to. When I last visited Haiti I saw many things but, one I will never forget was all the paintings on the street from all these talented young, old artist and they paint beautifully. This alone symbolizes more than most can grasp an artist paints either what they see or how they feel and every single painting have a history, had life and had a culture within them. So I ask what is there no to love?

WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO PAINT?

I mostly paint upon emotion so I listen to music and go off into my own world with colours that represent how I feel or what I'm missing, this allows me to also create something I'm missing.

TAKE US THROUGH YOUR PROCESS WHEN YOU START A PIECE.

When I start a piece the first thing I do is to rub on the canvas with both hands to get the feel of what I am about to create. I then decide if I will be drawing first or just using paint. I start off small and move my way around the canvas. Sometimes I flip the canvas over and over to see exactly what I may be creating and I just let the brush flow. 

IF YOU HAD TO DO A CUSTOM PIECE FOR A SPECIFIC CLIENT, WHAT WOULD YOU NEED TO KNOW OR FEEL OR SEE FROM YOUR CLIENT?

I would ask for a story and through that story I could put my spin on it and create something I feel would connect to their emotion.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PIECE THAT YOU HAVE DONE? AND WHY?

It would have to be my very first piece that I did on my own, it's a mother and newborn baby, and it is my favourite because it reminds me of my mother and me.  It's beautiful, it's peaceful and I truly believe it is us.

WHO IS SOMEONE THAT YOU ADMIRE/LOOK UP TOO IN YOUR INDUSTRY/FIELD?

I am still learning about artists and getting familiarized with the industry, however, Claude Monet has a piece at Moma in NYC. It's huge first of all and it took a while to let it all sink in but, it's fantastic, it's called “Water Lillie's” and it's the reflection of the shadow in the water. My goodness, such amazing work and it has been influential to me as a new artist.

IN ONE WORD DESCRIBE BIANCA THE PAINTER

Confidence 

 

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