s c u l p t THE EVOLUTION OF AN ARTIST’S MASTERPIECE
TYLER CACEK
ON HIS CAMERA, AFRICA AND THE ONE PERSON HE STILL WANTS TO PHOTOGRAPH
URBAN
GENTLEMEN OUR ODE TO MEN’S FASHION
OCTOBER 2012
ART ABROAD: 2
GIRLS SHARE THEIR SIGHTINGS FROM EUROPE
table of contents 7 editor’s letter
24 Check out these dapper gents in some pretty cool gear.
8 contributors 10 JUST LIKE MUSIC
We’ve found some hits that you should be adding to your iPod right now.
12 BLOG LOVIN’
As if you don’t have enough Tumblrs to scroll through, we’ve found a few more to add to your browser’s bookmarks.
14 ART BEYOND THE BORDER
Two girls, one country and a lot of sights worth seeing.
16 THROUGH HIS LENS From photography to med school, Tyler Cacek is seeing life through a different lens.
24 URBAN GENTLEMEN Streetwear + businesswear = a few good looking men.
That’s all folks.
On the web...
For our launch party we created some pretty cool looks to help our guests dress their best. Check out what we came up with on our Tumblr.
s c u l p t editor-in-chief RIKKI BYRD
creative director JEFF PERKINS
advertising, promotions and marketing BRIDGET BOTCHWAY BRADLEY
contributors IESHIA MCDONALD, CECILY HAIRE, MARC MAYES
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e d i t o r’s l e t t e r During the hiatus between each issue, I am enthralled by the countless inquiries I receive about the next issue. “Who’s in this issue?” “What’s the fashion feature going to look like?” “Who’s going to be on the cover?” The reality is, I hardly have an answer for them when they ask. What I can say: It’s not about what I want, it’s about the what the artists have to give. I walk around daily encountering emerging artists with dreams that, to the common man, may seem farfetched. But, their motivation to push beyond their frames, beyond their lens and beyond their sketchbooks is what brings us our fourth issue. We had a chat at a nearby coffee shop in Columbia, Mo. with a 21-year-old photojournalist who has decided to go to medical school. We scouted out some good music to add to your playlist and some blogs for you to check daily. In addition, we collaborated with an up-and-coming graphic designer who provided us with custom pieces from his streetwear collection for our fashion feature; then we found a few suave, young, dapper men and dressed them up. As the questions about our next issue begin to pour in, I’m sure that just means there are more great artists out there for me to meet. So, until next time, indulge in this issue one page at a time, but be sure to save your appetite for the next issue.
Continue to inspire, Rikki Byrd Rikki Byrd
Follow Rikki on Twitter @RikkiByrd
What’s next for S C U L P T? • Our staff prides itself on having a good time, and now we’re letting you join in on the fun. Check us out on Instagram to stay updated on our many adventures. • Sometimes, there aren’t enough pages in our issues to hold all the dynamic artists we meet. We’ve created a Tumblr to share info about new artists, updates on artists featured in previous issues and more! Check our blog out today at www.sculptmag.tumblr.com.
c o n t r i b u t o r s
CICELY HAIRE Since about the eighth grade, Cicely has known that she was put on this earth to write. As a communications student at the University of Missouri, she is enjoying every minute of developing her craft. She is the current editor-in-chief of The BLACKout Magazine (TBO), a position that has allowed her to indulge in her love for writing. She is also diving deep into the world of editing, publishing and promoting. With TBO, Cicely has been able to cultivate a talented staff of writers, photographers, video producers, columnists and more, in hopes that the legacy of the publication is one not easily overlooked on her campus. Though she spends most of her time managing her staff , she’s still in touch with her first love–writing. You can find her work in this issue’s cover story on Tyler Cacek.
Ie’SHIA MCDONALD Ie’shia McDonald is from Raymore, Mo. but currently resides in Columbia as a student at the University of Missouri where she is majoring in magazine editing. She enjoys researching and analyzing black music, and plans to have a career in this medium in the future. Along with writing for Sculpt Magazine, she also reports for the Columbia Missourian and writes for her own personal blog. Check out her music reviews in this issue.
We want to hear from you!
MARC MAYES Budding photographer, Marc Mayes, has seen the lens since he was young, watching his father capture photographs. He is a native of Sand Springs, Okla., but currently a graduate student at the University of Missouri. He attempts to capture what he “feels,” and enjoys creating moments within the moment. Check out his photographs for our cover story, as well as our men’s fashion feature.
Next issue we want to feature letters, thoughts, tweets and comments from our readers. Visit us on our social networking sites or email us at sculptmag@yahoo.com and tell us what you think of this issue.
Image credit: sidsriram.com
JUST LIKE MUSIC
In the past year, some of our favorite music artists have released new singles and mixtapes that are sure to make it onto your playlist soon. -IESHIA MCDONALD
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s c u l p t | OCTOBER 2012
^ SID SRIRAM Being a hipster is a combination of two things: originality and presentation. Meet Sid Sriram, an R&B singer known for his Middle-Eastern dialect and rap-artist delivery. His use of runs is unpredictable, yet so appropriate for each song he performs. Not only has he mastered the art of ad-libbing in the many songs he has covered, but he also uses this technique in his original work. He has perfected the idea of refusing to abide by a set note or tune in his songs, but instead freestyles within his own lyrics. Check out his cover of “High For This” by The Weekend and his original song “Limitless.” For more music check out Sriram’s website at http://sidsriram.com/music.html.
For more music and updates, check out Christian’s website at www.derrickchristian.com.
^SOULS OF LIBERTY St. Louis rap duo Souls of Liberty has a new single titled “Fly,” an unwinding, aesthetically pleasing piece. The song begins with a majestic-inspired tune and then introduces the first verse with the sound of a jet ascending off into the sky. Souls of Liberty member, Tenelle Bufford starts off the song with a simple rhythmic verse. The duo is joined by Nephari Burton for the chorus, who adds to the paradisiacal feel of the song. Ryan Brown’s charming, yet composed verse comes next and although it adds to the overall relaxing theme of the song, Brown is still able to mirror an old-school hip-hop feel. The single is the perfect reflection of the Soul’s many styles. To hear more music from the Souls of Liberty check out their website at http://www.soulsofliberty.net.
^AUNYAE HEART St. Louis’ newest songstress Aunyae Heart is giving STL a new soulful taste with her debut single, “Be With You.” Her style is a fusion of Faith Evans’ falsettos and Monica’s soulful tones. The single takes a neo-soul approach to the classic love song. Be sure to stay updated with her upcoming new releases. For more information about Aunyae Heart, visit her website at www.aunyaeheart.com.
Are there some music artists that you would like to see in the next issue? Tell us about them on Facebook!
^
Image credit: soulsoflibrty.net, derrickchristian.com, neoclef.com
<DERRICK CHRISTIAN An effortless crooner, Christian knows how to properly indulge himself into his music. Whether it is the strings of an acoustic guitar while covering Bruno Mars’ “Count On Me,” or the backbeat of remixing J. Cole’s “Who Dat?” Christian knows how to be a conscious singer, while simultaneously being unrestrained. Christian is also featured on the song “Battlefield,” by local Chicago rapper, Orie.
B. ADAMS Chicago native BA, also known as Brandon Adams, recently dropped his debut mixtape, “Best Unheard” on Sept. 23. The mixtape is a compilation of 14 songs that show off Adams’ charisma and animated delivery. But don’t be fooled by this rookie’s playfulness, BA is able to show off his eclectic ability with catchy insults and punch lines. Be sure to check out his “I Don’t Like” freestyle, a perfect reflection of this MC’s special flavor. To download the “Best Unheard” mixtape visit www.neoclef.com/mixtape-countdown-badams23-thebest-unheard/.
2DOPEBOYZ Meka and Shake, the sites creators, are literally two dope boys who provide a community of hip-hop, indie and alternative music. Music enthusiasts have access to constant new updates, downloads (legally, of course) and mixtapes from Rick Ross to Phil Ade. As long as they continue to satisfy our musical thirst and curiosity we’ll keep reading, and you should too. SHOWstudio If you are familiar with the home for fashMY SWAG DIFFERENT He has got to be the coolest
15-year-old we don’t know but wish we did. From his Kid N’ Play high-top hair to his sickening street style, we’re sure he’ll be a celebrity soon. Or maybe he’s just a dope kid with sick style who is simply too cool to care.
KNEE HIGHS AND LOVE
This Brooklyn beauty has become all the rage in the blogosphere. From snapshots with Pharrell Williams, to gracing the pages of Essence magazine, this groovy chick is becoming quite an icon. Her blog covers her day-to-day adventures and posts of random thoughts that run across her mind. What’s best is her humility; she signs every post with peace and Elleohvee (love).
ion film ran by ingenious visionary Nick Knight, then check out their Tumblr. It’s so amazingly artistic and aesthetically moving, it really shows you how SHOWstudio captures the essence of art through a fashion lens. There are a lot of archive pieces, and they always provide the greatest work of fashion film.
Image credit: myswagdifferent.tumblr.com, kneehighsandlove.com, 2dopeboyz.com, showstudio.com
BLOG LOVIN’
Our staff has surfed the ‘net for the blogs they love the most. Now, we’re sharing them with you.
Columbia, MO
Funmi taking some time to enjoy the view Saddiyah in London
Art Beyond
way but better (totally not true). Beside my days spent museum hopping, I also got a chance to experience the fashion culture in London. As a person well outside of the fashion world, I was taken aback by the amazing stores that I encountered. British stores like Mulberry, Fenwick, Primark and Peacock all dazzled the hell out of me. I could see just why this was the fashion capitol of the world. As if the stores weren’t enough, I also stumbled upon the coveted London Fashion Week. The trends were breathtaking and above all an inspiration to my style. Saddiyah and Funmi took on Europe this summer and have returned with plenty of My favorite trends were peplums and bold neon colors. Inspiration, however, stories and reasons why we should be boarding the next plane there. could be sought beyond the runway. From people walking in the streets of semester well spent in London is a the Vatican church and the Sistine Chapel Oxford Circus and down Bond Street to inside of the Musei Vaticani. I even got my semester spent walking, exploring, Sloane Square fashion inspiration was and shopping. London – actually groupie on when I saw the Pope giving a everywhere. Even if they were wearEurope in general – is an art and sermon. In Paris, I visited the Museé du ing cut-up overalls, an oversized, furry Louvre to see “The Mona Lisa” and was culture wonderland, which I was well aware vest and muddy leather mountain boots of from my years of studying about the surprised at how small her portrait was. I (I really saw a man walking down the country. The years I spent looking at the also visited the Museé de l’Orangerie and street in this), they made you believe that London Bridge, Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower viewed Monet’s exquisite “Water Lilies” whatever you “dared to wear” was ok. and the Colosseum were now a short train paintings. In Edinbrough, I went to the roof I wish this attitude for people’s apparel of the National Museum of Scotland and or plane ride away from me. In the four would spread to the U.S. Lord knows I’ve months I spent in Europe, I visited more art got a spectacular view of the Scottish Highadopted it. Life’s too short to not wear museums than I have ever visited in my life. lands and castles. While in London, I also hot pants, a neon fishnet shirt and Doc In London, I loved visiting the British Mutook in a couple of West End theatre plays, Martens. seum, where I witnessed the Rosetta Stone such as “Wicked” and Shakespeare’s, “The The overall culture of London is a Comedy of Errors”. I was gassed upon and got lost in wonderment in the Egyptian melting pot. I heard a lot of American artifacts room. In Rome, I was dazzled by hearing from British and some American influence in British popular music. Most the interior structure and artwork inside of people that the West End was like Broad-
A
nightclubs played frantic, heavy bass influenced dub step or African and reggae infused music. There are a ton of international restaurants and, of course, there are people of every race co-existing all over this huge city. Many people come with that “polite British charm” – especially if they can tell that you’re American. This was the case when, by chance, I met British actors, Jack O’Connell and Rufus Sewell. Both of whom expressed their love of New York City and Los Angeles, neither of which I told them I was from, but hey, at least they were nice. -SADDIYAH RICE
I
started school at the University of Southern California pretty much knowing nothing. I knew just one person at the school, I had no idea what I wanted to major in, and all I knew about California was what I had learned from years of being a devoted fan of The OC. The only thing I was certain of was that spring semester junior year I would be studying abroad. Going abroad junior year pretty much became my daily mantra. When shit got real and I found myself staring at a computer screen at 5 a.m. praying to some divine power to help finish a paper, my dreams for studying abroad became my motiva-
tion. So, when junior year came along, and study abroad applications were being passed out, I decided to put my French lessons to work and apply to spend a semester living in Paris. I’m fully aware of how dramatic the statement I am about to make sounds, but there’s no other way to say it: On January 20, 2012, the day I landed in Paris, my life changed forever. For the second time in my life I was starting school in a place I knew nothing about. The only difference was that this time, there was no need for an “adjustment period.” The moment I stepped off the plane I felt like I belonged there. And that’s the beauty of studying abroad. Despite being in a completely new and different environment, I still managed to feel like that place was my own. Each day, I found a new thing about Paris to love. Just the fashion alone was enough to make me consider never stepping foot in America again. What’s so remarkable about Parisian style is its simplicity. It never looks like they’re trying too hard and they wear their clothes with so much confidence. Skinnies, a blazer and a scarf may seem basic in America, but somehow when they wear it they make it seem like the chicest thing since the little
black dress. Living in Paris did more than change the way I approached fashion, it also changed the way I approached race. In America, I feel like my race is something I’m always aware of or always being reminded of. In Paris, this was definitely not the case. Race became so insignificant for me. I was the only black person in my program and lived with a white Parisian family, but I never felt any sense of exclusion. For once in my life I truly felt like race didn’t matter. I wasn’t the token black girl, I was just an American living in a foreign land. The best of my abroad experience was the traveling aspect. I went to Greece, Spain, Amsterdam, Morocco, the UK and Italy, and I found out that being exposed to different cultures really helps to open your mind. You meet people in your travels who you never would have met under normal circumstances; these are the people who end up making lasting impressions on your life. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about my time abroad—camel riding in Morocco, partying on the beaches of Barcelona ‘til sunrise, drinking wine at the Eiffel Tower. It’s moments like these that cause me to encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone, travel and explore something new. Because at the end of the day Y.O.L.O (sorry I couldn’t help myself). -FUNMI AKINYODE
s c u l p t | OCTOBER 2012 15
Thro His L At 21 Tyler Cacek has lived the life of an accomplised 45-year-old. He’s won countless awards, worked for the New York Times and been to Africa twice. Now, he’s ready to take on something new–all thanks to his camera. BY CICELY HAIRE
ugh ens
PHOTOGRAPHS BY MARC MAYES
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hat’s the But a year ago he didn’t feel so assured. Sudcraziest denly, the hobby-turned-successful career that had thing consumed his life for the past five years seemed foryou’ve ever eign and insignificant. The drive he had possessed done?” Tytoward journalistic projects had all but dwindled ler Cacek entirely, and the fervor with which he had been using scans the to dominate the world of photojournalism had erodbustling ed into complacency. He believed his talent had downtown peaked, and there were more than enough qualified coffee shop photographers willing to do the same work with for some more passion. “I didn’t even feel like I had the ability semblance anymore. The work felt empty to me,” he admits. of an appropriate answer then laughs. “What have I Then, while in Libya, Tyler noticed something; in the done that’s not crazy?” hospitals there appeared to be more journalists than The 21 year old’s resume reads like a bucket doctors. That’s when the seed was planted. list: an internship with the New York Times, a TIME “A lot of the journalists were really intelligent and Magazine cover, two trips cared and obviously “I expect to get my- really to Africa and countless had the balls to run into awards, all of which have a war, unarmed, to tell self into things I solidified him as a prodigy story. We need more can’t really com- the of a documentary photogdoctors like that. I decided rapher. Since age 15, his prehend. So when- that I’m young enough that camera has taken him from I can actually become one ever I get into a the war-stricken deserts of of those doctors.” Libya to the living rooms of Now, after years of situation that’s Klansmen. He’s captured journalism courses, completely crazy, competitions and accomextremist militias in Ohio, brothels in Uganda and he is pursuing I’ve done something plishments, drug abuse in San Francisa degree in nursing, that right.” co. “Nothing really shocks will be followed by a stint me,” he says. “I expect in medical school. His to get myself into things I ultimate goal is to own can’t really comprehend. So whenever I get into a a surgical practice, and take a few months each situation that’s completely crazy I’ve done someyear to work with nonprofit organizations and do thing right.” reconstructive surgeries on people who have been
During his time as a photojournalist, Tyler was recognized and awarded several times for his work. Check out some of the accolades he has under his belt.
1st Place, Rich Mahan Best Student Portfolio, Atlanta Photojournalism Seminar 2010
Two-time national finalist Numerous 1st, 2nd, 3rd at the place, and William Randolph Hearst Awards of Excellence at Photojournalism College competition Photographer of the Year photo competitions
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s c u l p t | OCTOBER 2012
disfigured by war. He carefully describes the time when he got within a mile of the front line in Libya—the fighter jets that circled overhead, the unbearable noise, the huge guns, the fear. “I see myself in war. It’s definitely the most scared I’ve ever been in my life, but also the most inspired.” Tyler calculates that he will most likely be in school until he is 32, maybe 35. But he has no qualms about that. When asked if he ever feels like he should have just stuck with photojournalism he quickly shakes his head. “It’s a long road. I feel like as someone that’s had overnight success I can’t really say there’s no such thing. But for lasting success you really have to put in the tough hours. It’s not easy. “I see myself in There are huge sacrifices. There’s war. It’s got to be some point in your life where definitely the you’re willing to give most scared I’ve up something.” And he’s no ever been in my stranger to sacrifice. life, but also the His high school was most inspired.” experience atypical; he spent much of it fundraising to finance his first trip to Africa. He’s had to exchange relationships and rites of passage for rewards and accolades. And now, he’s trading in what he calls the career of “a really accomplished 45-year-old” for all of the unrelenting stress of a pre-med student. Although both of his parents are established pharmacists, science doesn’t exactly come easy to him. Tyler shares that he internalizes a certain pressure that pushes him forward. “If I’m taking a test, I’m thinking, ‘If I don’t get an A on this test, then someday, someone won’t be able to get a heart transplant because I won’t be there to do it. It’s all on the line here.’” Between organic chemistry and MCAT preparation, there’s still some room for photography in his life. He scrolls through his most
recent project—a dark and eerie recreation of some of his most iconic pieces with lots and lots of blood--his own blood. Somehow, discovering his new path has allowed him to view the old one in a whole new way. He explains, somewhat morbidly, “You should always be willing to bleed for your work.” When asked if there is anything he still wants to photograph he blurts out, “Kanye West.” “My friends have compared me to him. I can be really ridiculous sometimes.” And while his abrupt career change may sound a little outrageous, he and Kanye have something else in common. His “Through the Wire”-style and persistence ensures that whether it’s documentary photography or corrective surgery that he is working at, he will be one of the best in the game.
Tyler’s photographs top to bottom: TIME magzine cover; KKK Infiltration; Child photographed while in Africa.
oo ooo oooo ooooo
URBAN
GENTLEMEN Say goodbye to the suits and ties. It’s time for a new kind of man. PHOTOGRAPHS by MARC MAYES
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s c u l p t | OCTOBER 2012
T-shirts by Arrognt Empire
Crewneck by Arrognt Empire
T-shirt and hat by Arrognt Empire
T-shirts by Arrognt Empire