Smart Chicks Celebrate Kwanzaa at Gaylord National

2nd Annual Kwanzaa At Gaylord National Tradition

Join Smart Chicks as we commemorate the festival of Kwanzaa with a day of art, food and events! It’s all part of our holiday Christmas on the Potomac celebration that features spectacular decorations, indoor snowfall, live performances, and even a winter wonderland carved from ice!

Kwanzaa Festival at ICE!
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gaylord Pavilion | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Performances and interactive experiences throughout the day help celebrate the holiday, including carving and
painting demonstrations and musical performances (for ticketed ICE! visitors only).

“Harambe” (Welcome) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lower Atrium | Noon
Jabari Exum performs the “Harambe” or “welcome” on the djembe drum.

“The Village” Kwanzaa Art Exhibit
Presented in cooperation with Amber Tree Art Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lower Atrium | Noon – 5 p.m.
A dynamic, artistic exploration of Kwanzaa, featuring visual artwork of African and African-American contemporary artists from the D.C. region, including live musical performances. Join us for an exclusive meet and greet with the featured artists from 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Kwanzaa Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pienza Italian Market | 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Join us at Pienza for a special dinner showcasing the traditional tastes of Kwanzaa, including Kunde (Kenyan Vegetable Stew), Poulet Yassa, and Cape Town Curried Lamb. Afterward, stick around for storytelling in Pienza’s Bella Vista room, presented in the griot-style tradition. And be one of the first 50 families at dinner to receive a copy of the children’s book The Gifts of Kwanzaa by Synthia Saint James.
Adults - $40, children (ages 3-12) – $20; tax and gratuity are included. Availability is very limited.
Reservations strongly recommended. Please call (301) 965-4000.

Sounds of the Season
Featuring The Q Jazz Trio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lower Atrium | 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Overnight rates start at just $139** a night – make it an unforgettable family experience!
For reservations, call (301) 965-4000 or visit online at www.GaylordNational.com/Kwanzaa

Mind Your Business: 'Tis the Season, So Shop Smart Chicks!

Meet Smart Chicks jewelry and purse designers Karen Clark and Jemma Morris. Both approach their art with unique perspectives informed by their extensive education and corporate experiences. The Smart Chicks community applauds Karen and Jemma for minding the business of art. 

Karen Clark
Apexspire Jewelry
www.apexspirecollection.com
(Photo taken at the Downtown Holiday Market in Washington, DC's Chinatown)

After Graduating in 2000, with a BFA in textile design from Moore College of Art and Design in, Karen pursued a career as a jewelry designer for a small trend jewelry design company in New York. The pace was exhilarating, but the process of having her intricate designs mass-produced, left her hungry for limited in house production work. In the spring of 2003, she decided to launch her own jewelry line. At the same time Karen pursued and completed her MFA in mixed media at Howard University in 2005. Apexspire Jewelry represents Karens sense of universal rhythm and beauty while embodying her own contemporary individualized edge.  She integrates metalsmithing techniques including fabrication, roll printing, fine knot work and casting to produce an innovative tactile line of work. As the designer of Apexspire Jewelry, Karen is completely focused on creating jewelry that separates the individual from the masses.

Jemma Morris

Jemma Morris Designs Hand Crafted Purses

www.jemmamorris.com

(Photo taken at the Downtown Holiday Market in Washington, DC's Chinatown)

After completing her education in Fine Arts at Wagner College, Jemma studied design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Concurrently, she began working as a fashion stylist for a photography studio as well as interning for a bridal designer. Eventually she took a nine to five position in corporate America but my desire to work as a designer full-time was irrepressible. In 2005 Jemma began working on a collection of colorful artisan handbags, she wanted them to be functional but attractive and fun to wear. 

"Working as an artist, designer and stylist, Jemma quickly learned that color is my true medium. I believe color is evocative of emotion. It helps us through our everyday lives, creating moods & ambience and lifting spirits. Colors in a gray rainy morning, the deep red of a rose, or the array of colors in the sky can all evoke emotion. This is why I love color and why I incorporate vivid and strong color combinations into all of my designs. Ultimately, I want my designs to have a spirit of vitality and energy relatable to anyone." 

Jemma spends every spare moment creating new designs and working in multiple artistic mediums, i.e. painting, styling, sketching, and sewing. On the last Saturday of every month, you can find Jemma with some of her newest designs at Eastern Market in Washington, DC.

Jemma Morris' Bangle Clutch™ Collection Funky

Wristlet fold over clutch purse in black and white grosgrain ribbon with color coordinated topstitching. Nickel snap closure. Gold tone metal bangle bracelet attached at side by short ribbon strap. 

Item #: 08.04.05
Description/Colors: Black, white
Dimensions: 12 x 7 inches
Size of Bangle Bracelet: 3 inch opening
Care: Surface clean only

Will She Love Me When I'm 64?

Will She Love Me When I'm 64
Play reading
Seshat Walker, Playwright and Smart Chick

Thursday, December 17 at 7:30pm
$5/ $3 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 202-462-7833

Upon hearing about the retirement of his idol, DC based emcee Jazz reevaluates his own career and questions if his struggles in the music industry will ever pay off. At the same time, Jazz's manager Schooley, usually sketchy with his connects, may have finally found an opportunity that will take Jazz to the next level. Meanwhile Jazz, Jazz has been trying to steer his best friend and homie Mo off the streets. Mo has just completed serving time in DC central cell after his cousin Derrick was murdered last summer. Mo has several side hustles and is a self-proclaimed "street counselor". Jazz's father was never sold on his son pursuing hip hop as a career. Will She Love Me When I'm 64 is a multimedia production that follows Jazz as he tries to figure out where he fits in an industry that boasts youthful swagger, streets tales and fast turnover. The production touches on the themes of ageism, the jail system, educational system, youth violence and fatherhood.


- Carolyn Malachi
Revenge of the Smart Chicks
www.reverbnation.com/cmalachi

Location:DC Arts Center (DCAC) in Adam's Morgan

Enter the AIGA Annual Design Competition

AIGA Annual Design Competition
Deadline: March 5, 2010

AIGA’s suite of competitions is widely recognized as the most discerning statement on design excellence today, extending a legacy that began more than 90 years ago. By means of the competitions, AIGA creates an authoritative chronicle of outstanding design solutions, each demonstrating the process of designing, the role of the designer and the value of design.

The selections in AIGA’s annual competition represent the best work across all disciplines of communication design and strategy, as chosen by a distinguished jury of design peers. As such, they become part of the AIGA Design Archives, a searchable visual database of exemplary design, they are exhibited at the AIGA National Design Center in New York and offered as a traveling exhibition for display across the country. The physical artifacts comprise the AIGA Design Archives at the Denver Art Museum.

(Click the photo for details)

- Carolyn Malachi
Revenge of the Smart Chicks
www.reverbnation.com/cmalachi

Location:Baltimore, MD

The Makings of a STAR Holidy Event

The STAR Holiday event is an annual celebration of Gaylord National's STARS (employees) and partner vendors. My team coordinated the event which occurred today, 12/15 from 11 am until 5:30 pm.

The Night Before - Bare tables bear promise of wonderful event. No decor yet. The podium eventually goes as the General Manager prefers a less rigid presentation. Note to self, always have handheld AND lav mic available.

Early in the Morning - 7 am on event day, and the ballroom starts to take shape. Light tresses are up, banquet buffets are in, and games are out on the floor.




Birch Centerpieces- Went with birch centerpieces to create an allusion back to ICE!, Gaylord National's new attraction - simple, relevant, and affordable.




Welcome to the Big Show - The event is a hit with the STARS. Looking forward to spreading more of the Smart Chick love on Thursday at the United Communities Against Poverty event inside of Gaylord National.



- Carolyn Malachi
Revenge of the Smart Chicks
www.reverbnation.com/cmalachi

Location:Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Student Compares Princess of Controversy to Lil' Kim

"She reminded kind of reminded me of Lil Kim but not in the weird (hussy) way. Her energy and uniqueness was what i made the connection with."
- George Mason University student

(Click Photo for Complete Story on Facebook)

- Carolyn Malachi
Revenge of the Smart Chicks
www.reverbnation.com/cmalachi

Location:Fairfax, VA

Feeling Froggy?

Disney's first ethnic princess broke the box office this weekend:

'Princess and the Frog’ rules the box office http://bit.ly/7mvqoH (Click Photo)

Did you see the movie? What's your take on the flick? Do you think its success will ignite a trend?

- Carolyn Malachi
Revenge of the Smart Chicks
www.reverbnation.com/cmalachi

Smart Chicks Host Gingerbread Experience at Gaylord National

Smart Chicks and the National Children's Museum host the Gingerbread Experience for guests of Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. Build a gingerbread house with your family at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 13 and 20, 2009. Admission is $25 for resort guests and $30 for non-guests. The Gingerbread Experience is sponsored by Peeps candy.






Photo 1: Smart Chick, Maureen Mulima smiles during event setup

Photo 2: Guests of Gaylord National enjoy the Gingerbread Experience

- Carolyn Malachi
Revenge of the Smart Chicks
www.reverbnation.com/cmalachi

Location:Oxon Hill,United States

What we gain in power is lost in time.

Ralph Waldo Emerson's essay on Compensation is always a good read, especially now. Here's the link:

http://www.rwe.org/works/Essays-1st_Series_03_Compensation.htm



- Carolyn Malachi
Revenge of the Smart Chicks
www.reverbnation.com/cmalachi

A Message from Her Highness, Synthia SAINT JAMES

"I'm sooooooooooooo thrilled to announce that I've just received confirmation from Saint Augustine's College (a Historically Black College), Raleigh, NC - where I was a speaker this September past - That I will be receiving my first Honorary Doctorate from them in May 2010:)))))))))))))))))))))) Thank YOU Saint Augustine's & Dr. Suber!!!! "
- Synthia SAINT JAMES
2009 Trumpet Award Honoree
Artist, Author, and Designer of the original Kwanzaa Stamp

The Shooting of a Wise Guy

Hey, Smart Chicks!

Stephen Elliot is a wonderful photographer. I work with him often, especially on projects with Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. Visit this wise guy's website, http://www.stephenelliot.com/.

Accomplice: Courtney Dowe Unleashes CD, Wrath

To know her is to love her.

Singer-Singwriter and Smart Chick Courtney Dowe has changed the world!! Her debut album "Accomplice" is an amazing compilation of Courtney's magic.

Tonight, Thursday, December 10, Flow Theory Thursdays will celebrate the CD's official release. Baltimore Smart Chicks, celebrate with Courtney, Olu, and the rest of the Blackout Studios family. The mantra of Smart Chicks Inc is "Make the daily, smart decision to be yourself." Courtney. If you want to meet a Smart Chick, then you need to meet Courtney Dowe.
$10 cover
15 W. Eager St
Baltimore, MD
9 p.m.

Check out this video of Courtney singing "On the Rise", one of my favorite tunes. Courtney is an amazing artist who's message of freedom and expression is palpable. She is dangerous, for all of our good.


(From Blackout Studios)

Smart Chicks Go Global

I'm starting a new campaign called Blank Out to help benefit the students with whom my good friend John Ubamadu, owner of Amber Tree Art Gallery, comes into contact on one of his quarterly trips to Africa. From now on, at all of my shows I will be collecting blank media (Cds, DVDs, and thumb drives) and giving them to John so the students can receive it.

Friday's show at Layla Lounge is a pilot for Blank Out. I encourage my fellow artists to also bring copies of CDs they have released. Use this opportunity to spread your wealth and your art with the global community.

Be prompt and bear gifts.

Carolyn

Aww. My First Library Nod. Cool!

Hip-Hop Poetry with Carolyn Malachi

Sterling Library
Saturday, Jun. 5, 2:00 PM
A messenger with poignant lyrics and a potent voice that arrests the senses and tugs at the heart, Carolyn Malachi has created her own modern infectious gumbo of jazz, hip hop and spoken word poetry. For all ages.

What better Smart Chick nod is there than one from a library?
 
* waits patiently for the official Grammy nominees to be named!!!*

Look! They're BYTing!

BYT covered the "Words Break Bars" event I played with Ra Ra Rasputin at American University.

(Shouts out to Ravenna and Joanna, Smart Chicks at AU. OH! Can't forget the lead singer of Ra Ra Rasputin. She's a Smart Chick too - totally, without a doubt, herself and proud of it!)

"Neill Franklin, a 32 year veteran of the Maryland State Police, was followed by young and captivating Baltimore vocalist Carolyn Malachi. Malachi performed tracks off her second album, “Revenge of the Smart Chics II: Ambitious Gods.” During her 15 minute set, the audience never lost interest in her unique medley of dignified jazz, daring hip hop, and spoken word. Her lyrics mostly spoke to empowering women, and she wrapped up her set right on target with the song “Needles”. This song was an ode to friends addicted to substances: “is you looking for God shooter?; you’ve got him, take your mirror in hand; give birth to a plan, no more idle hands.” Throughout her set, Malachi never wavered in her endearing composure and optimistic outlook. The lovely and composed Malachi could not have been followed by a more brilliant contrast than bashful and free-spirited Ra Ra Rasputin."

Welcome to the Revenge of the Smart Chicks Movement, BYT!

@Carolyn_Malachi
Reverbnation.com/CMalachi

Carolyn Malachi and Bloom Bars Represent "Our Town" in the Washington Post Magazine

Carolyn Malachi and Bloom Bars Represent "Our Town" in the Washington Post Magazine

Hey, Smart Chicks!

Some amazing things are happening in my world and I wanted to share with you.

The Sunday Washington Post runs a feature called “Our Town” inside of the Washington Post Magazine. In “Our Town”, Post artists recount a slice of Washington-area life through illustration. This week’s illustration is of my concert in the North West corner of the city at a tiny spot called Bloom Bars. I guess it just goes to show how important it is to be excellent, especially when you think no one is watching. Here is the link to view the piece online: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/artsandliving/magazine/our-town/112909/.
Also, I am being considered for a Grammy nomination. Official nominees will be announced on Wednesday evening.
I hope you can make it out to a show soon! Check out my gig calendar at www.reverbnation.com/CMalachi.
Thanks for sharing this happy moment with me, folks. Happy Holidays!

Carolyn

DJ Tha General Puts it Down for Smart Chicks in London Town

London's DJ Tha General featured music from Revenge of the Smart Chicks II: Ambitious Gods on two recent shows. Check out these podcasts also with music by some of your favorite indie artists. We're taking over the international underground...as one!

Episode 2 Tha General and Ryan Leslie BEATS RYMES AND BASSLINES!!!!

("Ryan Leslie is on the Beats Rymes and basslines show with Tha General.")

Episode 3 The Mixtape is finally here AAAAAA YYYYYYeeeeaaaaahhhhhh!!!!! 

("Featuring some of the heavy weights of soul music around the world like Peven Everett, Lenora Jaye,JimiJames, yolanda johnson, Reggie B dubplate special Style, T West, Carolyn Malachai, Koffee, Andre washington dubplate style,Jarrad Anthony, Rogiers, Trizonna Mcclendon, Shae Foil I have to say thanks too all those that showed me love. Tha General loves ya an i got ya and you know this saaaaalllluuutttteeeee!!!!!!!!")

"" Comments by DJ Tha General, Hot 96 Radio, London; Visit www.HOT96.co.uk""

Desiree Samira: For Your Amusement

The arts play an essential role in the life of a metropolitan region. Urban communities thrive as centers for the arts because they bring people together at densities great enough to allow cultural development. Without at least a minimum of population spatially concentrated, it is hard to get the type of specialization that leads to artistic development in many forms of mediums such as: modern dance, a symphony orchestra, ceramics and textiles, or multimedia experiences. A synergy develops whereby residents consume and produce arts programming leading to organizations instituting new arts programs followed by new artists answering the call for cultural production. The arts then enliven the life of the region by providing experiences that increase cultural interaction; spur innovation by suggesting new ways to observe, to hear and to think about life; and add pleasure to people’s lives.

Metropolitan Muse Concert Series was established in 2009 by Desiree Samira Entertainment, Inc. (DSE, Inc.) to provide a dynamic platform for the rising stars of the Washington, DC – Metropolitan Area to receive a unique opportunity to participate in a five stage Artist Development program that celebrates their talents and equips the artists with the tools necessary to develop a prosperous career as an independent artist.  After completion of the program, each artist is featured in the Metropolitan Muse which is a quarterly concert series presented at THEARC Theater in Washington, DC.

During each quarter, the DSE, Inc. Talent Scouts select 3 to 5 Independent Artists from the Washington, DC area who demonstrate the drive, dedication and hunger to succeed. The artists are offered an opportunity to participate in a 4 stage Artist Development Program and a featured performance at the upcoming Metropolitan Muse Concert.

_________ You can help the Metropolitan Muse support
____________ local Independent Artists.

 

This edition of Metropolitan Muse features a live audio/video recording of Terrence Cunningham as he performs the original songs from his debut CD entitled “SHE.” The opening performance will be provided by Kev.O.

Due to the high demand for tickets to attend the December 11th concert featuring Terrence Cunningham, we strongly advise concertgoers to purchase their tickets online and pick-up their tickets at the box office on the show date. We anticipate a sold-out concert.

Metropolitan Muse Concert Seating Selection:

Orchestra Seat $25.00                 Premium Box Seat $35.00

 

Metropolitan Muse Social Network
www.MetroMuseOnline.com

The Metropolitan Muse Social Network is a place for musicians, singers, songwriters, producers & music connoisseurs come together to promote their talents, services, upcoming events and make new connections.

Metropolitan Muse Concert Series was created Desiree Samira Entertainment, Inc. to provide a great platform for artists to share their talent and gain recognition within the Metro area music scene. It’s Desiree Samira Entertainment, Inc.’s philosophy that indie artists need their fans to grow with them. The Metropolitan Muse Concert Series gets fans involved, excited and committed to the acts.

Become a member of Metropolitan Muse Social Network and the folllowing features:

• RSS Feeds of Music/Entertainment Industry News
• Photo and slideshow features that allow members to upload and share pictures and create albums.
• Video and video players that enables members to upload and share videos of their favorite performances. Bands can also upload their Electronic Press Kits (EPK’s)
• Chat feature that enables members to see who’s online and chat in real-time
• Groups feature that allows members to join and create groups within the Metropolitan Muse Social Network.
• Discussion Forums that allow members to contribute to multi-threaded discussions with categories, attachments and photos.
• Blogs for every member
• Events calendar for all member to add events and stay current with deadlines to submit their EPK’s for consideration to perform at the next Metropolitan Muse Concert.
• Poll’s application for members to vote on their favorite venues, artists, singles, concerts, etc. in Washington, DC.

Hip Hop for your Brain

Over the last 10 years, Hip-Hop has seen amazing growth. Yes, the industry of Hip-Hop has done extremely well, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. The evolution of the Internet and the availability of audio and video software has allowed for a wider playing field in the creation of media. Previously, large amounts of money were needed to create media content and distribute it to the masses. Today, a decent computer and some creative energy allow you to share your work quite easily.
What has been sorely needed is a means to showcase the media that has been created. In Washington DC, the Hip-Hop Cinema Cafe shows Hip-Hop movies each month at the Historical Society of Washington, D.C. To date movies like Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme, The Freshest Kids, Bomb-It The Movie, Counting Headz: South Afrika’s Sistaz in Hip Hop, Deep Crates and The Art of 16 Bars have been shown, introducing the true essence of Hip-Hop to an audience which is largely uninitiated. As one education process takes place via media, teachers (middle school, high school and college) have begun the process in the classroom.

According to the Hip-Hop Archive over 200 courses on Hip-Hop have been taught at the college level. As those who grew up on Hip-Hop make their way into the academy, they are bringing their love of Hip-Hop to the classroom. Much like the early Black Studies, Women’s Studies and Jazz Studies classes, it took some time for those who grew up in these movements to incorporate their passions into research.
Similarly, high school and middle school teachers are utilizing Hip-Hop in the classroom as part of their lesson plans. It is not uncommon to see an English class using rap lyrics to examine poetry or history classes employing Hip-Hop as a lens for making global connections in the curriculum. Organizations like the Hip-Hop Association, Words, Beats and Life Inc and the International Association of Hip Hop Education are examples of organizations that have created workshops, which help educators in utilizing Hip-Hop in the classroom.
This fall, the Hip-Hop Cinema Cafe will add an educational element to its film screenings. Online tutorials and workshops will accompany films, creating a space for educators to collaborate on lesson plan ideas based on the film. The Hip-Hop Cinema Cafe holds panel discussions on each film where the audience can ask questions and share thoughts. The addition of educational resources will create another means to educate the masses on the true essence of Hip-Hop. Continue to check the site for updates on this initiative.
Written by Prof Andrew J. Ryan.
Taken from HipHopCinemaCafe.com
Andrew J Ryan teaches courses on Hip-Hop at George Mason University and the University of the District of Columbia. His course: “Beats, Rhymes and Culture” was named the 14th ‘coolest’ class in America by College Bound Teen magazine. He can be reached at hiphopprof@gmail.com.

Vixen?

I'm writing a piece called "Vixen". Tell me what images the word conjures in your mind. What connotations do you have of the word?

Comment HERE:

Facebook.com/CMalachi

Twitter.com/Carolyn_Malachi

Smartchicksinc.blogspot.com

SAVE THE DATE!

Check back for details on how to purchase advance tickets.

Hip Hop Cinema Cafe: a Post-Class Excursion/Gig

(DON'T YOU JUST LOVE THIS DESIGN?!)

CASRAM Presents along with The solSource Group and Historical Society of Washington, D.C. Presents Hip Hop Cinema Cafe:

Say My Name

Saturday, Oct 31, 2009 The Historical Society of Washington, D.C. 801 K Street, NW Washington, DC 3PM to 5PM

In a hip hop and R’n’B world dominated by men and noted for misogyny, the unstoppable female lyricists of Say My Name speak candidly about class, race, and gender in pursuing their passions as female MCs. This worldwide documentary takes viewers on a vibrant tour of urban culture and musical movement: from hip hop’s birthplace in the Bronx, to game on London’s eastside.

I will be on the panel of speakers.

Grammy Magazine Article

In addition to this layout being a point of interest to me, my producer, James McKinney, is featured in this current article which appears in Grammy Magazine. Speaking of the Grammy Awards, I found out the few categories for which I could possibly be nominated in December. (Insert Happy Dance HERE).

ARGH! Forgot to send writing for class.

Check out writing for project 3, "We Want You." Names have been deleted or changed in order to protect the innocent.

" COMPANY wants to give STARS a High 5IVE for GETting Caught in the act of Looking Sharp. What happened to “My Uniform, My Work Area, and Me”? Of all the Service Basics, the third, Look Sharp, is something that all STARS can do to ensure Guests have a flawless experience from check in to check out.

Maintaining a crisp, clean uniform and name tag allows Guests to identify STARS as points of contact within our expansive resort. When a Guest approaches you, be sure to practice Service Basics one and two. Look everyone in the eyes and smile. Speak first and last.

Keep all areas looking their best. STARS, take the opportunity to create small, unexpected WOWs for Guests. straighten pillows in public spaces, or adjust a leaning convention poster. Guests will thank you and remember you for taking the time to make their experience at COMPANY a special one.

Pick up trash and assist Guests and co-STARS. If each of us pitches in to keep the back and the front of our house looking sharp, COMPANY will be a much more pleasant place to work. Help Guests by escorting them to their destinations. WOW your co-STARS by responding to their requests with urgency. Remember, to all who enter our doors, we want to show them friendly, helpful, and prompt service.

While you are out there Looking Sharp, remember all of COMPANY's Service Basics: Look Everyone in the Eyes and SMile, Speak First and Last, Look Sharp, Know Your Stuff, Discover and Delight, and Make it Right.

Do your part to keep COMPANYl Looking Sharp. STAR Searchers are floating around the resort, equipped with cameras and movie tickets. GET Caught in the act of Looking Sharp. Receive instant acknowledgment and the opportunity to win fabulous prizes. If you would like a STAR Searcher to catch you and your co-STARS in the act, visit Human Resources to find out how you can make it happen.

A Story About Brunch

On Sunday, I will be having brunch with 20 twenty-something women; artists, entrepreneurs, educators, and corporate professionals from Washington, DC and Baltimore. This is the fourth edition of the Smart Chicks Brunch headed up by Simone Jacobson of Words Beats & Life. It is her story that I will tell to complete project 4, "Hey, What's the Story?"

List of Favorite Words: There's a Website

Hmmm, my list of favorite words may or may not include a few unsavory verbs. I looked to the Google gods for repentance. This is what they showed me:

http://www.myfavoriteword.com/sitemap/

GET Caught! Concept for Project 4

This is a draft of the 4.25" x 6" flyer of my campaign. Essentially, the call to action is for employees of this hotel to "get caught" doing something that contributes to the appearance and smooth operation of the building. Management wants employees to pick up trash where they see it, return stranded carts to their storage location, etc. My idea is to present the action item, "get caught" in a tabloid style. This is were I'm headed. Any feedback?

Another concept

I have an interest in corporate communications, specifically supporting recognition programs with graphic design and technical writing. There is an organization in the Washington, DC area that has begun a campaign called "Get Caught". The goal of the campaign is to get their employees to do little things like pick up trash, return items to their proper place, or helping co-workers without being asked.

My concept is to develop a campaign derived from a series of tabloids that show employees "Getting Caught" in the act of exemplifying the company's action item.

Campaign Time: Art Supplies for Urban Schools

Heart & Soul Magazine Brilliance Tour

What is the social discourse?
Art can generate revenue and resources for art students.

Cause
Donate green school supplies to local high-school in need. High-School students in urban schools need better preparation for college. Teachers need adequate classroom tools.

Execution
 Communicate what school is chosen to receive the donation
-Flyer 
- Poster for flying up the flag poke
- Zine piece   

Ultimate goal
Supplies for the entire academic year are provided

Preggers

In arts circles, expressions of a woman's right to choose flow freely on canvases, from microphones, and so on. Creative minds sermonize on a woman's ability to bear children and her perceived social responsibility to do so. From my seat in a neighborhood cafe where spoken-word and vibrant paintings temper the mood, the time-honored tradition of filling a single-family home with the pitter patter of 2.3 children's feet has no place among the subject matter. Sex, drugs, and Rock and Roll are nowhere to be found either. I hear harsh criticisms of popular media choices and plenty indictment of the folks who chose them. I see replications of what was once avant-garde. Something new needs to debut.

Try this. There are fewer pitter-pattering feet around African drum circles. The motherland's birth rate is folding. Irony. Economists project that Africa will finally have its opportunity to recover, err, make strides toward a healthier, unified economy. Economist.com says this:

In Mozambique in 1950 a woman had, on average, 6.5 children over her lifetime; now she has five. In Ethiopia the figure has dropped from seven to five; in Cote d'Ivoire it has almost halved from its peak; in Botswana it has more than halved. The only exceptions are war-torn places such as Congo.

Project #3: We Want You

Campaign

Select a social issue and create a campaign consisting of three pieces - a poster, a magazine ad, and an advertising postcard- using cause and effect. You are trying to persuade a particular audience to change some behavior with perceived negative or positive consequences. For example, to raise awareness about the dangers of crystal meth, you could show the effects of the drugs on its users by showing how awful they look from years of abuse. The cause/effect relationship does not have to be negative. You can point to the positive effects of weight loss or peace in Darfur.

How about pointing to the positive effects of hiring a full-time artist to provide a services for a professional environment? Or the dangers of waiting for a major record label to sign you and your band to a lucrative deal? Supplying artists of all media with the economic tools to pursue a life-long, sustaining career in their field of choice, is something of a personal priority. And, as a student and creative professional, I have the advantage of practicing on myself. Classes are great for sharpening my personal branding. The corporate environment is full of opportunities to exercise that all-important life skill, execution. Both are great for fostering developing fruitful relationships.
Watch this video of my band and I at Eden's Lounge in Baltimore, MD. "Organic Soul" is the name of both the event and the song. What's more important is that the video depicts indie-artist branding in action.

If You Shoot It, They Will Watch

According to research compiled by RowdyOrbit.com, a web-based medium for culturally relevant, short films, more than 40% of the films viewed online originate from folks like you and me. Was it a stroke of genius that prompted the new company to build its business strategy around consumer-created videos? Watch them grow.

My Mr. Potato Head is Done!

They were mashed together. Kanye West and Taylor Swift’s worlds collided on a public hot plate. All hopped up on hops, the crispy rapper from Chi-town baked insult into the country girl’s home fries. Chipped but not skinned, Taylor owes her rescue to the golden queen of au gratin Pop, Beyonce Knowles.

Face the fat. Pop culture serves itself up this way, smothered in savory gravy with a sweet-side of something candied. Consumers find the yammering irresistible though they know well how to achieve a balanced media diet, the kind that makes moms smile. The rules are simple and akin to those that govern the consumption of carbohydrates. Increase intake of the complex, reduce the simple.

Target demographics reported by Time Warner Cable in 2008 reveal that MTV heartily caters its message to persons ages 18 to 34. The network says “The driving force behind MTV is its deep bond with young adult audiences…MTV is their source, confidante, sounding board, partner and much more.” We talk. They listen.

When Pop culture decides to fry an artist, the world prepares to dine. Apparently, we, the treasured young adult audiences, should personally thank MTV for the food fight at the network’s 2009 Video Music Awards, and for future messes. The antics of a man, drunk and bold, have become the stuffing of conversations at break-room water coolers. They have been analyzed, boiled over, both on Baltimore’s notorious West-side streets and in the legendary west wing of the White House.

Ignored is America’s salad appeal, this country’s unique way of mixing the ugly, chilling for a while, then serving up beauty. It is the sadistic, selective memory of Pop culture, the American main stream, that skins pop icons, all in pursuit of dish.

And the Grammy Goes To...

When official Grammy Nominees are announced in December, my name may appear on the list. Yours truly is being considered for a Grammy nomination. I am in the company of amazing artists such as Wayna, Tamara Wellons, and my big brother, Kokayi. In his words, "I can't say the categories or anything, but I can say google everyone I mentioned and do the due diligence." Diligence created and has sustained the Revenge of the Smart Chicks movement. Smart Chicks,Inc., the Smart Chicks Network, and I have al benefited from your energy. YOU come to concerts and shows in the bitter cold and sweltering heat. YOU purchase our music and send your favorite songs to your best friends, heck, even your arch enemies. YOU drive my me in the street, honk your horns, and shout "Hey, Smart Chick!" with all the energy you can bolster. I will continue to share the purpose of this movement through my art. Make a daily decision to be yourself. Start today.

TWO SHOWS ON FRIDAY, 9/25
Baltimore Book Festival
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Main Stage

Babylon
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Falls Church, VA

By the way, you can stalk me on these two sites:

Reverbnation.com/CMalachi

My Press Kit

The Gospel of Green

Smart Chick Aminah West, and her two business partners, preach the gospel of green to all who will hear. I witnessed the CEO and founder of Reclamation Energy, LLC in action at this weekend's Black LUV Festival. Aminah and her new company will be the subjects of my next assignment: Hey, What's Up?

ASSIGNMENT #2
Hey, What's Up:
Write one 500-750 word article plus a sidebar describing something new-a new technology, form of transportation, music, etc. Choose something that had piqued your interest and that has you foaming at the mouth to share with others. Your subject could be something that is old but is new again. Lay the article out in a two-page spread. Think about the kind of publication in which this article would appear. What kind of visual voice should you both be referencing and developing?         

Mr. Potato Head

ASSIGNMENT #1: What Are We Eating?

HEY, SMART CHICKS. HELP ME WITH MY HOMEWORK!

Begins like this: "They were mashed together. Kanye West and Taylor Swift’s worlds collided on a public hot plate. All hopped up on hops, the crispy rapper from chi-town baked insult into the country girl’s home fries. Chipped but not skinned, Taylor owes her rescue to the golden queen of au gratin Pop, Beyonce Knowles. "

And ends like this: "Ignored is America’s salad appeal, this country’s unique way of mixing the ugly, chilling for a while, then serving up beauty. It is the sadistic, selective memory of the American main stream that both scallops wartime bloodshed, and skins pop icons, all in pursuit of dish."

At the moment, I'm losing my footing in the middle, attempting to correlate Kanye's crucifiction over Taylor to Barack Obama's over healthcare. It's a stretch, but do you have any ideas about how to relate the two?

First, a Marriage. Then, an Introduction.

Gather here. Witness the marriage of the business of willful self-definition to the pleasure of self-discovery.

While the latter will surely tickle the imaginations of a few newcomers, card-carrying members of the Revenge of the Smart Chicks (ROTSC) movement know that being a Smart Chick or Clever Dude means making a daily, smart decision to be yourself.

Allow the writer, just for this blog post, to write in first-person perspective. She deserves an introduction any way. My name is Carolyn Malachi. I am a performing artist, graphic designer, communicaions specialist, and event producer. Revenge of the Smart Chicks was just a sassy title I crafted for my first CD which I released in September of 2008. It has since become the global network of artists, educators, and entrepreneurs from which I launched Smart Chicks, Inc., a non-profit organization that sources creative professionals to corporate opportunities. Smart Chicks, Inc., the Smart Chicks network, and the music I create with the Revenge of the Smart Chicks theme comprise the Revenge of the Smart Chicks movement.

For settled members of ROTSC who have been migrated from our previous blog format, allow me room to 'splain. I am in my first year of graduate studies pursuing my MFA in Integrated Design. For my first class, Words & Images, one of my responsibilities is to maintain a professional, course-relevant blog. Our ROTSC community is the right audience.

I look forward to sharing the knowledge and skills that I learn throughout my academic and artistic journey. Know that you can also visit this blog to enjoy social commentary, access my performance schedule and, if you like, cretique my homework assignments. Visit this blog to connect to the rest of the Smart Chcks network as well.

That's enough informality for now. It's time I get to my first assignment:
"We're Eating What?"
Describe a food ingredient. The description should be informed by a definite purpose and shaped by a clear sense of an intended audience.

Hmmm, I think I'll use Kanye West's cheesy antics at the VMA's as inspiration.

Carolyn Malachi
Creative Director
Smart Chicks Inc.
Twitter.com/Carolyn_Malachi
Facebook.com/CMalachi
Myspace.com/MsMalachi

Next Gig:
Carolyn Malachi & A Band Called Q
Tuesday, September 15
Organic Soul at Eden's Lounge
Hosted by Olu Butterfly Woods of Poetry for the People of Baltimore and Blackout Studios
$5 Cover
15 W. Eager St
Baltimore, MD
Set time 9 pm (Well, 9-ish)