PEPPER Magazine / December 2022

PEPPER VOL. 1 / NO. 7

SA / TX / US

know thy self.

De cemb e r 6 Editor’s Note : Know Thyself

arts.

8 Open to Interpretation : Nate Szarmach

17 Sight vs. Vision : Vuwani Rambuda 24 Black Sheep : Vayne Rebelle 31 Worthy : Nikhi Aum 35 Making Faces : Thembinkosi Mabuza

business.

42 R + R Collective

fashion.

52 All Decked Out : Darryl E. Edwards 61 Babes in Toyland : Andrey Lukovnikov 67 Downtown Girls : Michael Avila Christman 74 The New Amsterdam : Janet Michelle

habitat.

79 The Utilitarian : Kevin Robert Designs 87 Zhuzhing the Lagniappe • with Becky Witte-Marsh 90 The High Life / Highlight : The Grand Reintroduction 92 The Modern Gentleman’s Holiday Gift Guide

savor.

96 Robert Bjorn Taylor

culture.

100 Then There Was Us : Sinenkosi Msomi 102 Identity is Fluid : Gabriel Richard Yepez 107 Transit : James Reade Venable 114 Humans of Northern Caucasus 122 Humans of Lebanon & Jordan

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passport.

131 Tales of Monegros, Spain by Seigar

122

Rx. 140 Fit to a T. psych.

143 A Modern Mystic 146 Positively Crystal 148 The Paper Psychologist : Gustavo Otero

PEPPER I S S U E

no.7 prodigy.

157 Little Miss Sunshine

lit.

166 The Day I When Waited for the Wind 167 I’m a Dead Poet 168 Pressed for Time

get involved.

172 Fiesta Youth

107

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disquiet.

176 Ms. Behavior : Nancy Grace Horton 183 Writing from the Margin : Tony Lashden 187 Union of the Impossible : Moment

directory.

190 ICON : David Bowie 194 Cover Artist : Nate Szarmach Acknowledgments Staff Bios

PEPPER Magazine Est. 2022 SA / TX / US arts • culture • business web directory msha.ke/peppermagazine website hellopepper.weebly.com email hello.pepper@outlook.com available on MagCloud Issuu copyright K. Day Gomez San Antonio, Texas 78209 PEPPER Magazine

PEPPER

Magazine

EDITOR’S NOTE

KNOW THYSELF.

Editor in Chief K. Day Gomez San Antonio, Texas

“To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.”

- Socrates It’s a central theme—arguably the most central theme—that I touch on in my intuitive life coaching. People from all walks of life come to me with completely different backgrounds, principals and obstacles. Yet this one resounding trope is tantamount if they are to begin to lay the groundwork for real growth.

Marianne Williamson said, “Self-awareness is not self-centeredness, and spirituality is not narcissism. 'Know thyself' is not a narcissistic pursuit.” Knowing one’s self doesn’t end with understanding your likes and dislikes, your social avatar and motivations…it’s far deeper than that.

As we are addressing it in our soft theme for this, our seventh issue, we mean to encourage our contributors and vicariously our readers to take an introspective look in the mirror. As the caterpillar in Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland asked, “who are you?” From core to facade, of what are you comprised? Do you allow your ego to lead, or let the higher self be your pilot? Is your moral compass manipulated by societal influence and traditional dogma, or are you resolved to finding your own way, organically? What are your primary motives, your ‘why’?

In every way, this issue is about identity.

How we identify determines how we tell our story. How the story unfolds in turn influences and shapes who we become. How we react shapes how we are seen. And so it’s also an exoteric journey outward, turning the mirror toward society. Who are the larger ‘we’, and 6

how does that affect the individual? Since all of the paradigm shifts which have taken place directly before, during and after the worldwide pandemic, are we listening? Are we paying attention? Are we actively creating solutions to make lasting change or are we resting on our laurels?

Identity. Sovereignty. Interdependence.

Community…these ideals are more than just words.

They define who we are, foster understanding and become the building blocks upon which we create bridges, safe spaces and the construct of everything that comes next. Next is a big big deal. But as the wise say, you can’t know where you’re going if you’re not willing to look at where you’ve been.

I leave you with two of the most powerful words in the English language when positioned side by side— I AM. For, what we place after that phrase determines not only who we are, but what we believe about who we are and consequently, what we then manifest. What we put out into the world first takes its roots in what we believe about ourselves; who we believe ourselves to be. Knowing is half the battle. It’s the beginning of everything that comes next.

Vanessa Solis Realtor #788710 (210)860-3496 vsolis@kw.com Servicing San Antonio, Texas & surrounding areas.

O P E N

T O

INTERPRETATION The work of fine artist Nate Szarmach Austin, Texas

journalist K. Day Gomez

Arguably, to “know” one’s self may at its core be to accept that one may never completely know one’s self. On the subject of identity, how we view art or the interpretations we have, the ways art affects us can tell us just as much about ourselves.

Tracing back to his beginnings, Szarmach illustrates who he was at the onset of becoming a visual artist.

“Like so many before me, I've been drawing for as long as I can remember. I was a pretty quiet child with two siblings who were much older than me.

Quiet is certainly not a word that I would use to describe the dynamic in our house when I was young, so I believe that I mostly started drawing as a means to keep myself out of the way.

As I got older, this thing which I used to self medicate became a real joy of mine. With each passing year as I excelled beyond my classmates in the arts it became more and more clear to me that drawing / painting was maybe more than just a thing I happened to be good at. I was 24 when I finally surrendered to the talent which I had been given and began pursuing a full-time practice.

Before we get into the life and process of fine artist Nate Szarmach, it’s important to understand the work, as he’s presenting it, how he’s presenting it, and to what end. For that, Nate shares his artist’s statement. “ Challenging the ability to give and receive information is most important to my practice.

When the image is clear It defines its own boundaries and tells you what it wants to be.

When a subject is out of focus, distorted, or gestural it becomes an invitation for our memory, subconscious and imagination to make sense of what it wants to be. If we accept the invitation, we become active participants in creating the meaning that lies within the artwork in front of us.

In addition to the viewer, the work is equally about my own inability to express myself. My work avoids strong and clearly defined messages.

Singular statements about the subject matter often feel disingenuous to the way that I experience life. Juxtapozed modes of making and visual styles are the most honest forms of self expression that I can give- that what it means to be human is not to understand oneself with perfect clarity but rather to work to accept and embrace our own contradiction and imperfection.”

10

My obstacles were almost entirely self imposed. I was incredibly blessed to have parents who have always supported my work. My mom was an elementary school art teacher and what my dad lacked in artistic talent he made up for with enthusiastic support of my endeavors. However, in spite of my talents, I've always had a lot of insecurities about my work. My obsession with perfection tends to be my greatest ally and my greatest obstacle. I think that it's driven me to push my work further than many because I'm never quite satisfied with it. On the other hand, it's an obstacle that's often stopped me in my tracks. For example, I received a scholarship to paint in college. However, during my freshman year, I convinced myself that a career in painting would never be possible for me so I gave up the scholarship and pursued a degree in architecture. Funny how things work out, though.”

At the time, Nate may have been unaware of the ways a more technical understanding of architecture could lend itself to design in art as a whole. However, to the trained eye it’s easy to see where architecture, symmetry, balance and asymmetry play an adequate role in his finished pieces. It was something that felt like a more practical path to him, given his general self doubt.

“I've probably been the one to believe in myself the least out of anyone in my circle. When I was in high school my dad would drag me out to national portfolio days and sign me up for opportunities

against my will. Saying it now, it seems so privileged of me to say because I know that for many they never had that kind of support—but it's the truth so I'm sticking to it.

Additionally, my wife has probably been my greatest support system. I started seriously considering painting full time about a year before we got married and she has pushed me every step of the way to embrace it. Even now, in seasons where I find myself frustrated with painting, she is always there to reinforce this pursuit. It's crazy how self doubt and insecurities 12

convince you of things that are not true. Even through countless opportunities, awards, and milestones in my career I still struggle to feel that my work is good. Thankfully, though, I've become increasingly convinced that this is what I was made for and I'm committed to seeing it through.”

That commitment has yielded a continuous collection of paintings and mixed media pieces that pull the viewer into that subconscious space, beckoning them to traverse the fog of their own memories and experiences to make sense of what they’re looking at, while perceiving the forms the

artist has set before them.

will help my work is yet to be seen.”

When asked about his influences, Nate explains, “this is always a funny question for me.

There is a more standard answer about the artists who have most strongly influenced my visual style. Those artists would be Gerhard Richter, Jenny Saville, Istvan Sandorfi, and probably Fancis Bacon. But I also think those artists have influenced the entire culture of art making and I'm a byproduct of that culture. It's like saying The Beatles have had the biggest influence on your work. Of course it's true, but it's also true for millions of other aspiring musicians to come after.

Instead, I would love to call out a group of artists who are currently working that I see pushing boundaries and making fantastic work. So my 'colleagues of influence' would be Henrik Uldalen, Tiffany Cole, Eric Helvie, Peggy Kuiper, Milos Hronec and Matthew Stone (to name a few).”

As mentioned, Much (though not all) of Szarmach’s work consists of religious iconography reimagined or blurred like in a dream. We asked what is the overall message or purpose, what does he hope it does for the viewer? “I see the artist's role as someone who simultaneously expresses something transcendent about the human experience while pulling at the threads of our culture. I think the best artwork doesn't function as propaganda but rather raises the right questions. I think it's rather arrogant for artists to use a beautiful object as a trojan horse to propagate specific ideologies. Of course, though, we do have our own opinions and we have the unique position in this world to express those opinions and get them attention. So it's a very fine line. I think our authorship is best when it decides the right questions to ask instead of spoon feeding the answers.

We also inquired how he chooses the subjects of his artwork and what key elements he looks for when choosing? “This is a really timely question. In the past I've focused less on the specific subject and more on the way that the reference image makes me feel. I tend to like things which are charged, whether that's religious iconography or a figurative pose which shows the body in irregular and contorted ways. I just like Images that have a certain amount of baggage that is interpretable. Currently, however, I'm really pushing myself to think more specifically about the subjects of my paintings. Whether or not that

At the risk of giving a "non answer", the truth is that the work is not meant to communicate a certain idea about God or religion. Rather, the paintings are an expression of my own struggle to clearly and effectively relate to God. By blurring, obscuring, and deconstructing the iconographic images, I'm asking the viewer to project themselves onto the piece. The visual distance between the viewer and the image being obscured allows, I've found, for the viewer to expose and address their own memories, biases, and thoughts about the subject. For these pieces, the subject in question is the Christian faith. And, more specifically, the way that the west has interacted

with Christianity. What do we assume? What were we taught? What is buried deep in our subconscious and is it even true? Hopefully the work can act as a mirror for both myself and the rest of us to look our relationship with God in the face and wrestle with it.”

Shifting to the here and now, we asked what sort of changes he’d like to see in the world around him. “Lately it has become my belief that we need a stronger sense of humanity in the arts.

So many artists make art for art's sake or paintings for the sake of challenging the notion of painting. I believe that in our current culture we desperately need work which can pull threads at what it means to be human. The best work transcends cultures, ethnicities, beliefs, and periods of time to tell an honest and universal story of human experience.

In the past, I have seen my work unify individuals from a myriad of different backgrounds to wrestle with universal questions about religion, identity, and perception. Moving forward, I hope my work can continue to stand as a launching point for hard questions. At the end of the day, I don't particularly think that objects have any sort of intrinsic power to effect change. However, I do believe that profound artworks can generate the types of conversations that need to be happening for our culture to heal and develop. Hopefully my paintings can do that.”

Where is all of this inevitably leading for

Nate? “Well I obviously hope for all of the normal things; I want to make relevant work that interacts with people in an impactful way and I want to be able to make a good living from it. Additionally, though, I've found that after a few years painting alone in my studio I really miss being around people.

I plan to pursue opportunities that can make me part of something larger than myself. Whether that's residencies, getting an MFA, opening a gallery, teaching, or all of the above, I really hope to interact more directly with my community on a daily basis.

Who knows, maybe I'll do all of those things!”

From his years of experience, he’s developed two very important pieces of advice—“one: You need to be your own biggest fan. You cannot sell someone else on your work if you have not sold yourself. two: Art people are not as scary as you think that they are. Many of us are socially awkward, anxious introverts just like you! Get out there and make friends. Many people in the arts, even at the highest levels, would love to give you help if you ask for it.”

What is he up to now? “Currently I'm wrapping up some large works for clients, then I'm planning to take a few months off to finish a novel that I've been writing. I hope to submit it for publication by the end of 2024. As for painting, I'm strongly considering getting an MFA...so we shall see.” Nate Szarmach is always open to serious inquiries and conversation about art. “I really only use Instagram, so look me up there! @nateszarmachartist .”

So don’t be a stranger.

SIGHT VISION V S .

VISUAL ARTIST VUWANI RAMBUDA JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

JOURNALIST K. DAY GOMEZ

20-year-old Vuwani Rambuda is a multidisciplinary artist based in the South of Johannesburg, South Africa, where he is currently in his second year of studying graphic design. This is his story.

“I always drew cartoon characters when I was younger but never really took art seriously until I got to the 10th grade (around 16 years old) where I took visual art as one of my subjects.

This shaped my overall view on art and made me consider doing something creative once I left high school. Over the years, I attended a great deal of art workshops where I sharpened my skills by learning how to use mediums such as charcoal and oil paint, which have now become my overall mediums of choice when doing anything related to fine arts. After high school, I had my eyes set on one vision— to further my knowledge within the different creative niches, which is why I choose to study graphic design. This opened my creative world to digital artforms such as illustrations and 3D artworks.

One can describe my work as “forever evolving” as I will always create work based on where I am as a person. In this early stage of my creative journey, be it traditional or digital art, overall my work is connected by subject matter or composition which differs based on medium.”

Vuwani’s work is bold, vibrant, often touched by Warhol’s pop art influences, yet with something more free-form. He seems to make his own rules, leading with intuition to reimagine photographs or paint surreal portraits. “For my illustrations, I mostly use celebrities’ images because they are easy to find, and I usually look for portrait images.

For my drawings I ask friends or people I follow on Instagram if I can use their images as reference.” Like Warhol’s process, the use of

celebrities and iconic still life in art takes a recognizable subject and presents it in a new way.

People are often drawn to faces they recognize when seeking art.

We asked about the themes he most often touches on in his work. “I mainly touch on identity and how we all see the world differently. I would definitely love to touch more on spirituality and my culture.” Rambuda’s current project is a perfect example. “‘Sight vs. Vision’ is an ongoing series using charcoal, oil pastels and acrylic on paper. It depicts a figure in dark lighting with a yellow and red tag on one or both of the eyes. The whole idea behind it is that I may have a specific vision I want to convey but the viewer will always see something else or relate to it in their own way.

The "sight” = viewer and "vision” = artist co-exist while simultaneously opposing each other because they don't see or feel the same way about the artwork.”

As for his influences, “One person who has inspired me the most is Tyler the Creator. Even though he’s not a visual artist, the ability he has to create anything that he wants and being free within his creation inspires me.” He takes heart in the support he’s received from his home base. “My family has always supported me from day one. My maternal side of the family has a number of people within different creative niches, so it wasn't really a foreign thing to them.”

As he makes his own way as an up and coming artist, Vuwani envisions the kind of social change he’d like to see (and be in part responsible for) in the world around him. “I would love to see more young people of colour being represented within the various creative spaces. I would love to start an organization that empowers creatives of colour who come from disadvantaged backgrounds by helping them understand how the industry works, ect...”

His plans for the near future are clear. “I hope I get to 19

own my own studio where I will be exploring the arts—not just what I do now. I’d like to be in a position where I can collaborate with my favourite brands and artists. For now, I'm working on creating a solo exhibition or a group exhibition for myself and creatives within my circle. In the meantime, people can find me on Twitter, TikTok and Instagram—handle (waniiheart).”

For others seeking a career in the arts, he urges, “my advice would be to trust your ideas. That’s one thing I used to struggle with earlier on. And last but not least, never stop learning about what you love doing, regardless of where you may be in life spiritually, financially etc...“

BLACK SHEEP

MIXED MEDIA ARTIST VAYNE REBELLE PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA

JOURNALIST K. DAY GOMEZ

Chaotic, visceral, jagged…at a glance, Vayne Rebelle’s work can be described as such. His portraits carry a heaviness and seem to move even as they remain static. Self discovery and understanding plays as an important undercurrent through each piece.

“I was drawn to art at the age of 11 by my father, William Reed. I was just fascinated by the work he did with basic ball pens and his speed sketches. I wanted to express myself from there on to see what could come out of my imagination. Then street art came and swept me away as I got a little older.

I was always inspired by Jean Michel Basquiat, though at my age I only knew him by his hair and art—not his name. I just really adored his freedom despite how the media covered his position in the art world. Keith Haring for his childlike expression with the cleanest lines I’d ever seen…at the time I was turning stick figures into 3D work. I was digging Warhol for his groovy pop take on what would otherwise be basic photography of people and items, and how art films were actually a thing. I didn't know what art nouveau was until I experienced that. All of those artists basically got me into heavier supplies like spray paint and acrylic. I ended up painting everything from cutouts to abandoned doors for fun.”

About his materials and process, Rebelle explains, “the main medium I use is acrylic paint.

But in some cases I use found materials for texture, digital photography, and sometimes pen, marker, and charcoal blended with my acrylic paints. My core theme is based around what I learned from being a street artist with the expression of letting music create my movements and lines. So basically, music creates the outcome.

It’s sort of like the maestro for my paint brush or tools. I whisk a silhouette of features and shapes and let freestyle lines gather texture for emotion with my own emotion at the time, creating what I remember about items and faces. With a more warped visual leaving a question for every line, I let my art speak to me in my own voice when its done, metaphorically.”

Vayne’s passion for art garnered attention from his family and community that he hadn’t anticipated, early on. “My family basically told 26

strangers and friends of the family how creative I was, so news got around that I was the creator or black sheep in the family. It caused me to have an intriguing effect on people. They would tell me to keep doing what I was doing and even wanted me to do projects for thier homes. So my Mom would kind of advertise what I do or even ask me to do something for her creatively. It got to the point where I would create things for their reaction, in a sense, so it also kept me going at that time.

My peers weren't into much visual art—maybe drawing naked chicks in notebooks or funky sayings in bathrooms. With my peers, it was all about the music, so it worked out. Art has a connection to music, so going to night clubs and concerts to see bands or hip hop shows really brought out an atmosphere for my work, and they appreciated it.

From there, I wanted to be the painter stepping out of a limo, being the rock star of the art scene, because music and life said so.”

A lot of young people develop preconceived notions about what life as an artist should look like.

It can influence their drive to pursue the lifestyle and take their talents seriously. And even if disillusionment sets in, they’re able to learn more about who they are in the process. “My family has always been supportive, but I went through a painful spiral when my father passed. The music got louder and angrier, so anything I created was intense like the music. I became resistant to a lot of things, but not my art. I found myself doing something I would call Burn Art where I would

paint something then burn it outdoors. It was almost like I was angry with my own art at that time; but it was really like my art was hurting too. That experience got me into playing instruments and back into poetry. So I was pursuing art under a lot of pressure if that all makes sense, with no thought of format at the time.”

During this darker time, he found himself drawn to others having similar experiences. “I was dating a female who basically was a runaway. She was a sweet female but had some conditions that were pretty dark, and at the time I was going through my own darkness so we shared our burdens. She was there when my art was dark and for some reason I had some heavy dreams and started painting what I remembered from them. These dreams didn't start until I encountered her. She was kind of like my #1 fan for a while but we both didn't have a clear view of where my art belonged.

She was the one who told me my art is my weapon, and I took that very deeply. I was basically in fight mode at the time and that really helped me see where I was at in my art. It cured the blur in my conditions at the time. It helped me realize my art could also cure someone, or be used to fight for those who can't say it with words. From the ideology of my art being used as a weapon, it made it clear that my art was a story all along. A story of my heart. I stopped looking at art as a fancy way to be

someone and realized that I AM my art, whether loved or not. So she probably didn't realize the impact of her words but she was on to something.

Now the art I create is all me, not what I think it should be.

The message I want to send to the world with my art is to give the youth something they haven't received—not to let society feed you a meal that isn't for your emotional nutrition. Art is a feeling and it doesn't die once you become an artist, and to express ourselves while helping others do the same.

We need our youth more than ever to change the game. It’s been played the same too many times, this game called life as they say. I feel art can be the antidote needed for a richer society—one I want to live in.”

Despite the dark times Vayne had to endure, his environment has been a good one, nourishing. “I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA [Go Steelers!], in a neighborhood called the Hill District in the projects of Elmore Square. If you're from Pittsburgh, then you know the Hill District. It has a rich history despite my era. I now live on the North Side of Pittsburgh in a suburban town area called Bellevue which is very chill for my recent creations. The walks are laid back with lots of trees [I love trees by the way]. The town has a lot of shops, venues and restaurants to keep anyone entertained, and musical festivals.

Music is appreciated here, thank goodness. As my career develops, I really want to travel frequently to

Ocean City, Maryland and just paint on the balcony of a beach condo with an ocean view.

That place has everything I want and there is nothing like sleeping to the sound of the ocean. I would like spaces in Las Vegas, California, and Florida to just drench myself in culture and see what comes out in my work, while attending art events and visiting museums in those areas. The goal is to travel and do exhibitions wherever I land nationally and internationally, while decked out with a glamorous hotel or space where the service is impeccable.”

Lofty as his goals may be, the certainty Vayne now has about what he wants is a clear departure from the fog of confusion in his younger days. He’s doing what he can to work toward those goals. “I have a boatload of projects in the works which include art, soundtracks, content, and exhibitions in the making—both physical and virtual—all created by myself while featuring other creatives under my Tiger Haus Productions label. There is also a fashion brand coming soon that I am wrapping up to hit the world this winter. You can get a glimpse of everything on my social networks: Instagram: @artbyvayne / Website:VAYNEREBELLE.NET” In parting, Vayne stresses, “My advice for the youth and anyone pursuing art is to never give up, because once you are an artist you will always be an artist. It will pinch at you if you take too long to keep discovering yourself within it. We may age but the spirit of art is forever young. Also if you aren't ready to go full time, try to keep a day job that doesn't drain your soul. You’ll need mental and emotional space to answer to your journey.

Art is like a baby; it is constantly born so you’ve got to make time to tend to it around the clock.

But in a rat race society, we have to work within the clock. Find ways to sharpen your style or skill and live it. It will showcase as your best work. And speaking of showcasing, no one will know how awesome your work is if you do not expose it, so find ways to gather up a good network to be discovered. Build a network so solid that all your work is anticipated by your audience [and by the way, YOU are your audience].

Art is a love language and whoever receives your art loves you, they just don't know it yet. That is your audience. And besides a strong network or community to help you get to higher places in the art scene, please do not forget to enjoy yourself—that's an order from me.”

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WORTHY

journalist K. Day Gomez

Visual Artist Nikhi Aum Bombay, India

Nikhi Aum is an American artist of East Indian origin located in Bombay, India. “‘Woman’ is my ongoing allegorical series depicting a woman’s strength and fortitude, which was started during the 2020 lockdown as a response to events on a national and international scale that were playing out in a polarized patriarchal world. It was never intended to be a series, but after the completion of Aukaat, the first of the artworks in this series, I felt there was more to be said, more to be stated and more to be proclaimed. Khai, Shakti and my newest Period followed, and I will soon start working on my next canvas. How many more artworks before the series concludes? I have no idea…”

The 55 year old visual artist envisions a world where women have divine sovereignty over their own destiny and identity. A world of equality and profound understanding. This is not the world Nikhi currently lives in. And she’s courageous enough to be vocal about it. Art is where she finds her voice to rage against the system. ““Aukaat" means worthiness in Urdu. In my part of the world any time a woman fights for justice or demands for her legitimate place in society, the influential patriarchy—which can include powerful folks in the government, media, and even friends and family—let go all pretense of a progressive mindset and question her on her aukaat, reminding her that by virtue of being a woman, she doesn’t have any right to make such demands.

“Aukaat’’ is a visual statement using symbolism depicting the strength of a woman overcoming deep-rooted barriers and obstacles to emerge victorious. The female form in the center of the canvas is further enhanced by a stroke resembling an uncoiled hissing serpent, akin to the awakened Kundalini [a Feminine energy]. She breaks the shackle on her foot to rise and spread her wings, reaching for the sun that is also the Ouroboros [a symbol of wholeness and infinity]. The triangle at the base of the pyre and all over her form [the esoteric symbol of manifestation and ascension] points to her destiny—the Ouroboros.

It’s her rebirth. Like the phoenix, she arises from the ashes. Her fortitude is inspiring and spreads her wings professing her glory, as if to say “My Aukaat is THIS!” 30”x40” oil on canvas.”

MAKING FACES

PORTRAIT ARTIST THEMBINKOSI MABUZA MBABANE, SWAZILAND

JOURNALIST K. DAY GOMEZ

telling me that I should not give up and my time will come. At first, they didn't understand what is the purpose of drawing for me up until I started improving my work. From there on, they started telling me that I can make money through art from people who were seeing my work on social media.”

About his influences, Mabuza shares, “I was always nspired by Wandile Sihlongonyane [his mentor] who is from Swaziland, and icon Chris Brown through his music that he produces and lifestyle. I am also a person who is inspired by nature and the things that happen around me.” Observing these lifestyles has impacted the work he does. “I do fan art most of the time. Drawing celebrities is the thing that helps me to make commissions and increases my ability to earn money.”

Photography goes hand in hand with portraiture as photographs ensure a still subject to study while sketching. “I can do photography as I am passionate about it also. But I tend to miss drawing a lot because it is the thing that I’ve been doing a long time in my life. It also depends on how the situation is.” That he has the ability to pivot when necessary is important.

Thembinkosi Mabuza is a 20 year old portrait artist living with his mother and siblings in the Manzini region of Swaziland. “I started drawing at a very tender age when I was doing my primary level at Ludzeludze primary school. It was like a hobby at first. I started drawing cartoons known as Dragon Ball Z after a few months. The first time I saw an artist who was painting a live portrait, I couldn't wait—I was so excited and surprised as well. I approached him and asked him about the painting he was working on. Through this, I found my inspiration in art and he taught me a few methods of drawing. His name was Wandile Sihlongonyane and he’s from Swaziland too. After a few months, I started drawing people and that's how my love for being a portrait artist grew. After about a year of practice, I was able to draw.”

He was met with some degree of scrutiny in the beginning from his family as making a living was a key concern. “My mom is not working so I’m making a living through art. But my mom always motivates me to work hard and keep pushing,

Thembinkosi dreams big about a not so distant future in pursuit of his art. “In five years to come, I hope to travel around through art and be one of the best artists in the world. I’d like to be working and have a studio in Europe where I will exhibit and sell my artwork. I hope to open a school for teaching young and upcoming artists.” He’s already teaching by lending solid advice. “To those who want to be an artist, they have to be ready to invest and spend their time. People must spend time in researching and spend most of their time in drawing—which most people don't like.” He’s setting appropriate expectations—a life in the arts is not for everyone, but for those who are willing to put in the effort, there is no other life more favorable.

So what is coming next for Thembinkosi? “I’m currently working on publishing my first book; an autobiography about my journey as an artist that will be realized 2024. This December, I will be releasing my first documentary.

People who wish to support my work can find me on social media on Facebook: Thembinkosi Mabuza Art pencil drawing / personal account @Thembinkosi Mabuza (Artist), on Instagram @thembinkosiart7 or Whatsapp me at +26878314005 Email me on thembinkosimabuza4@gmail.com.”

Melanie Allison MELANIEALLISONGALLERY.COM

Welcome to R+R Collective Co.—a brand new mixed-use concept store in San Antonio, Texas journalist K. Day Gomez photographer Stacey Olivares-Garcia

brilliant and lovely herbalist in Long Beach named Julie James and began taking a few of her herbalism classes while trying to figure out the imbalances in my body. I fell in love with herbalism immediately.”

Her journey would eventually lead her to understanding the source of her ailments, which would in turn inspire her to help others. “Ironically all of my complaints weren’t separate issues at all— they were all connected. As my gut health improved so did my mental health and skin health. For the first time in my life, I received a compliment on my skin! While that was flattering (and surprising), the most important thing for me was that for the first time I felt good in my body and balanced. All of this was accomplished rather quickly too and all by lifestyle shifts, dietary changes, and adding in herbal medicine via teas and tinctures. I was hooked and in that moment decided I had to share with as many other people as I could what herbalism was and how to incorporate it into your life.”

We spoke with the four co-owners of R+R Collective Co., Relyt and Be Kind Rewind to get the scoop on San Antonio’s newest apothecary and multi-use space. Tyler Beakley—Herbalist and Founder of Relyt—is the brain trust behind the apothecary side of the space. “I honestly started studying herbalism as a means to an end, not to completely change my life path. But I’m so grateful for the journey it’s taken me on and continues to take me on. For some backstory, I had a lifetime of gut issues, skin issues and mental health issues, and I really just wanted to feel better mentally and physically. Everything I had tried before just wasn’t working, so I sought to get to the root of all my issues.”

Around 2016, Tyler was working as a flight attendant and living outside of Los Angeles in Long Beach, CA. “I was really fortunate to be exposed to so many different healing modalities in L.A. and around the world that focused on getting to the cause of symptoms vs. just suppressing the symptoms. I found an incredibly

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R+R and Be Kind Rewind co-owner Ashlea Ma Valdez is also from Cali. “I’m a Southern California native, but have lived all across the country. Growing up, I was always at my family’s array of businesses from auto shops to donut shops helping out and learning the ropes (but mostly just eating the donuts, haha). We didn’t have a lot of money growing up, so I always shopped at thrift and vintage stores to hunt for the designer and trendy pieces in my price range. No one can tell the difference!

My husband and I started selling designer clothing online about 7 years ago. We tried opening up a couple of other businesses, but the cities we lived in just weren’t the right fit. We moved to San Antonio to be near my husband’s family and started doing pop up markets where we met our co-owners, Relyt.

When we were all finally in a position to open our

very own brick and mortar, we were so excited to bring our other small business friends along with us!”

Ashlea’s husband and co-owner Brian Valdez tells us, “I’m a San Antonio native but I spent more than 20 years outside of SA, so coming back to my hometown to start a business has been very fulfilling. I got my first job in a tea house when I was 18 on Fairfax in Los Angeles. I never went to college but working in the restaurant industry seemed like a good fit for me. From there I got an opportunity to manage a bakery, and then to manage a Starbucks and Nordstrom Cafe. This experience was invaluable in creating the menus and procedures at R + R.

products were in Texas and how many people were wanting something like what I was offering!

At one of the markets in 2021, my wife and I met Brian and Ashlea, who were in the booth next to us with their business Be Kind Rewind, selling their

My business mentors in Austin have had a tea business for over 20 years and have been instrumental in my knowledge base of tea and business as well. What led me into vintage clothing was a need to get away from corporate life, and the fact that I get to marry the two together while working for myself has been a dream come true. I’ve always been into fashion but I never thought I would be able to grow a sustainable business in the fashion industry. There were many obstacles along the way, but once I learned most of them were created by me, it was easier to jump and take a risk.”

On Tyler’s end, “I launched Relyt (pronounced “relight,” but it’s my name spelled backwards) in the Spring of 2020 online in California and then moved my family and the business back home to Texas in the winter of 2020. I did my first in-person sale at a pop-up market in San Antonio in March of 2021. I was thrilled at how well received my vintage clothing. After several markets side-by-side, we were talking about how we were both looking for a physical space for our businesses. We also noticed that we shared customers. Those who were seeking more sustainable clothing options were also wanting to better their health. They were the intentional shopper who wanted high quality, sustainable products, so we started looking for a space to share together.

We wanted to incorporate both of our passions together to create a space to foster community

rooted in more intentional living and have a space for our individual businesses.

The name R+R Collective Co. stands for a few different things. Initially we were trying to combine our two business names—Relyt and Be Kind Rewind. We took the R from Relyt and the R from Rewind and put them together. We loved how that could also mean ‘Rest and Relax’ and ‘Reuse and Recycle’, which are the two themes we‘re promoting.

We added “collective” because we knew we wanted to have many local businesses, artists, and makers under one roof. We are slowly but surely growing our collective.”

R+R is very much a tea haus as it is a retail space too. About the construct, Brian explains, “Living in larger cities and traveling a lot, I would always encounter multifaceted retail concepts (especially in Japan) and they fascinated me. In Japan, a lot of retail shops have coffee or some sort of small bite inside the store. We all wanted to bring some of that to San Antonio. Our target demographic are ages 0 - 100. We wanted to create a space that would resonate with a grandmother and granddaughter. A son could bring their mother, a place everyone is welcome and a place everyone feels welcomed.” A beautiful inclusive philosophy.

Ashlea adds, “Growing up in and around LA, I was immersed in the fashion industry and loved the thrill of the hunt for unique pieces. My dream job was to be a buyer for fashion brands and I am so incredibly grateful that I’ve not only been able to create my own brand, but I was able to make it sustainable and good for the planet.

As for the tea, it’s a part of my culture.

Being a Chinese American, tea played an important role in my upbringing, from big family dinners to Chinese tea ceremonies. My mom would also take me to have high tea on special occasions or for a “girl’s only day” so that has always had a special place in my heart. I love sharing a pot of tea with a loved one and to just feel fancy for a moment, pinkies in the air!”

We asked the group what sort of changes they’d like to see and how R+R plans to foster that change. “The wellness industry

has a luxury issue,” Tyler illuminates. “It’s not lost on me that it can exclude a lot of folks. My apothecary of bulk herbs in the shop is a great place to start. By the ounce, the organic herbs I carry are very affordable. I am opening up my books in 2023 to workshops and free consultations for folks who want to begin working with herbs but don’t know where to start. I also want to bring in more perspectives and voices to teach workshops in our shop.

I am a queer white female-identifying Western herbalist—and that’s one perspective, not the end all be all. I have so much respect and gratitude for the cultures that have influenced and shaped herbalism, and it’s imperative to amplify these perspectives and traditions.”

On the fashion front, Ashlea says, “I hope we’re able to inspire others and help people live a more sustainable and stylish lifestyle. Fast fashion is a 47

huge problem in today’s society. From pollution to lack of labor laws, it has an effect on the entire world. Second hand is the only sustainable fashion.”

Brian shares his perspective —“I think San Antonio is a city on the rise. With out of state investments flooding the city at an enormous pace, I think San Antonio will look very different in 5 years. That being said, I hope our strong Tejano culture doesn’t disappear. I think we are the most community driven city I’ve lived in and I don’t think that will change. We just have to put good energy out there and accept that change is the only constant.”

So, what’s coming next for R+R Collective? “Workshops!” Tyler enthusiastically explains, “I just want to build this community up. I want everyone to feel a part of R+R, and to feel represented, seen, and heard. Anyone who is passionate about herbalism, equality, and leaving this world better than we found it —I want to hear from you! We all have so much to share and to learn from each other and I want R+R to be that safe space to do just that.”

Ashlea mentions, “Being a collective, we’re always looking for other small businesses to host and help out.” And Brian adds, “We’re constantly having events featuring local

vendors and makers. Follow our Instagram for our most recent events!”

R+R Collective is exactly the sort of co-space San Antonio needs and is excited to see realized.

There are a lot of forward-thinking movers and shakers here, and many of us are also “transplants” (meaning from different parts of the US and globe), adding to the rich melting pot of cultures that come together to form the SA community. Inclusivity, communal markets where folks can also break bread, share tea and gather health goods? Yes, please and thank you!

And speaking of different parts of the globe, Tyler tells us, “Kelsey Minard is my wife and my biggest supporter. She is providing for the family so I can follow my dreams. She and I met at work as flight attendants in 2014 and she still flies for the airline. In fact she is in South Korea as we speak, which is why you won’t see her answers in this interview.” We at PEPPER wish Kelsey safe air travels and thank her for being part of such a wonderful collective endeavor.

The group leaves our global readers with a parting gift of invaluable advice regarding entrepreneurship and taking a chance on yourself.

Tyler imparts, “Trust your intuition, and learn the phrase, “I’ll get back to you on that.” It’s easy to make promises when you are excited or say no when you are scared. Give yourself a moment to make a thoughtful choice instead of leading with

reactivity.”

The Valdez’s both chimed in with, “Life is short.

Take that risk!” They both stand as shining examples of what can happen when we dare to bet on ourselves. Says Ashlea, “Move to a new city, learn to embrace change and have fun doing it all! Who needs a comfort zone when there’s experience to gain?”

Brian‘s wisdom explains the importance of embracing our mistakes. “Failure is the best learning opportunity. Most entrepreneurs have a portfolio of failed businesses behind them. If you can overcome failure and rebuild yourself, you will be fine.”

If you are living in the San Antonio area and

would like to learn more about collaborating as a small business, artisan, maker, you can reach out via email to hello.rrcollective.com . Their website is available to learn more at rrcollectiveco.com . And you can follow R+R on Instagram @rrcollectiveco .

Tyler’s holistic wellness company Relyt is online at relytwellness.co and you can follow on Instagram @relyt.co .

Be Kind Rewind is on Instagram @shopbekindrewind . You can also find more of their curated items online at grailed.com/BeKindRewind .

I for one am very much looking forward to venturing in to relax, shop and learn very soon. And who knows? You might find PEPPER there someday!

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Corey Layne Photography Austin, TX coreylaynephotography.com • @coreylaynephoto

All Decked Out

PHOTOGRAPHER DARRYL E. EDWARDS & MESHAUN MODELS BRING STYLE + HEAT TO THE HOLIDAYS

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

fashion.

photographer Andrey Lukovnikov Torrevieja, Spain

Welcome to the Dollhouse…

Let Tchaikovsky have his Nutcracker Suite… photographer Andrey Lukovnikov brings a young girl’s dream to life in his Dollhouse fashion-centric conceptual art series.

With the help of creative director Ekaterina Lukovnikova and the Vassallo sisters, Shannon, Michell, Sidney and Demi, he invites us to enter a living toyland.

W O T N W RLS O I D G

N

photographer Michael Avila Christman with models Alissa Volkov & Ty San Antonio, Texas

Amsterdam the new JuaniStyle Photography with model Janet Michelle Amsterdam, Netherlands

The

SUSTAINABLE STYLIST BECKY WITTE-MARSH @beckywittemarsh

marshbecky17@gmail.com

FASHION • HOME • SET

The

UTILITARIAN Sustainable craftsman, artisan & designer Kevin Robert Fernandez Brooklyn, New York journalist K. Day Gomez Rocco S. Christopher Photography

KEVIN ROBERT DESIGNS

habitat.

Kevin Robert Fernandez is an artist, a designer, and a stylist, with an exquisite taste level and impeccable sense of style. Years in the industry have equipped him with the contacts and vendor relationships to maintain a high standard by way of quality of materials used in a fresh, exciting, and tasteful way.

Kevin Robert Designs exists first and foremost as a sustainability platform. 95% of the postindustrial luxury materials used were landfillbound before being repurposed. The goal is to highlight and disseminate the notion that materials, even when previously industry waste, can integrate seamlessly into art & retail. He’s not wrong. In fact, it’s an overhaul that even mainstream stores are beginning to make— though by and large, we have a long way to go.

A set designer and prop stylist by trade with over a decade of experience, Kevin has had a hand in all facets of the fashion and retail world.

His work with legacy fashion brands and industry leading publications provides him the experience and skill set to seamlessly deliver best-in-class solutions across all visual arenas.

With work spanning from window displays on Madison Avenue to pop-up shops and experiential activation, he is a true fashion phenom.

Kevin has since gained various titles such as Art Director, Lead Stylist and Instillation Fabricator.

He delivers quality, style and an attention to detail that helps to promote & showcase brand standards. His clients include Ralph Lauren, David Yurman, Neiman Marcus, Anthropologie, Jo Malone, Spotify, Cole Haan, Nine West, Shiseido, Ole Henrickson, Bare Minerals, Aveeno, Bliss, Garnier Fructis, FeNoel, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Hendri Bendel, Lord & Taylor, Hudson Bay, Burlington & Roberto Cavalli.

KEVIN’S STORY When Kevin was a child, he recalls a pivotal moment in his memory—a beach trip with his family. He remembers seeing an older boy building something in the sand. It was a channel, like a mote with water. The boy had made use of an unexpected element to add a deeper level of realism to his castle. As Kevin spoke with the boy, he recalls him saying, “Your hands are the best 82

tools you’ll have all your life.”

This bit of wisdom would resonate with everything he’d come to do as his life progressed. “It took me 37 years to figure out what I’m doing. And now that I know, there’s no going back.” Underneath everything he makes, Kevin is a visionary. He’s an artisan in regard to the sustainable accessories he fabricates for the home and body. But waste management and education is central to his purpose, which he perpetuates by repurposing remnants and industry waste. “I want to be able to show other people that they can do it as well.”

Much of what Fernandez learned by way of retail from marketing to ground level came from hands on experience as a young man. He worked his way to the creative services department for Ralph Lauren. And at the ANTHROPOLGIE home store.

Over time, he would apply this experience to his own brand, while adjusting to fit his own functional object art initiative. KRD has now developed a handful of key items : • Bags • Vessels • Tribal Necklaces • Bandit Scarves.

Below the surface level of what he creates, Kevin Robert Fernandez is spearheading what he hopes

will prove to be the next movement within the sustainable revolution. He explains it best in his artist brand statement, ‘Moving Forward’…

JOIN THE MOVEMENT KRD believes that one person’s trash is often another person’s treasure and utilization of these treasures represents a commitment towards sustainability; a siren call toward acknowledgement of the disposable consumer culture that has elbowed its way to the forefront of mainstream fashion.

A deep appreciation for natural fibers and materials drive the artist’s waste-to-value strategy in accessories and apparel fabrication.

As an uncompromising standard, KRD only sources materials with integrity, durability, and an aesthetic appreciation that is time tested and universal. This focus allows KRD to create an aspirational and immersive experience for all.

Years in the design industry have equipped Kevin with the contacts and vendor relationships to maintain a high quality of materials, used in a fresh and exciting, albeit tasteful, way.

KRD’s goal is to highlight and disseminate materials, even those considered industry waste, can integrate seamlessly into art and retail. This is accomplished through the curation of materials and creation of material specific capsule collections to develop limited edition, direct to consumer accessories for the home and body, representing the standard for personalized but sustainable apparel. This flexibility of material allows for a playfulness that can and should extend to all of a craftsman’s experiences.

The key concept is “limited edition.” Materialspecific capsule collections represent the standard for personalized but sustainable apparel.

Kevin Robert sincerely believes that by combining fashion with a deep focus on sustainability, retail markets can and will be both fulfilling and ethical.

You can find Kevin Robert Designs at kevinrobertdesigns.com and on Instagram @kevinrobertdesigns —Jack of all trades, Master of Design.

sustainable fashion & decor

Sustainable fashion & lifestyle expert Becky Witte-Marsh

I live my life in a Lagniappe state of mind.

Zhuzhing my way through every day, trying to add that little something extra to everything I do. That’s basically what these two words mean—a little something extra.

Lagniappe is a Creole term that started as a small gift with purchase, but wound up translated into the Creole culture in acts of kindness, sharing of food and yes, small gifts. I learned about Lagniappe on a business trip to Louisiana where I was expecting to buy lunch for a crowd. But instead, a team member with culinary skills had brought in a HUGE pan of delicious homemade lasagna, complete with garlic bread. I thanked her and asked why she had offered this gift. She said, “Oh, it's just lagniappe.” She taught me a valuable, lifelong lesson that day. I learned that thoughtful acts of kindness, even in the smallest bits of our lives, can greatly enhance the entire living experience. I wanted to be a part of that.

Zhuzhing (also sometimes spelled zhooshing), came into play in my life well before I knew there was a name for it. In high school, I added vintage brooches to my thrifted tops and coats. In the 80’s, scrunchies were used in the hair, but also as tee shirt ties to get just the right amount of fullness. As my styling skills evolved way past these initial triumphs, I sought to make sure that every outfit had that little something extra.

When I heard Carson Kressley, from “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” refer to “zhooshing” an outfit, I knew exactly what he meant and immediately adopted the term. It can mean the pop of a collar,

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rolling up a sleeve or adding two belts instead of one – my favorite!

Without getting too far into the vernacular woods, in my research, I found it interesting that the word Zhuzh has roots in the British gay community.

In a time where being gay was illegal, a slang language developed called Polari, where words were twisted to communicate more freely. Twisting, a.k.a.

Zhuzhing, started here.

Copper cabinet pulls could be used as napkin rings, creating a little excitement at the dinner table.

I could wrap my gift in vintage advertisements or use old calling cards as gift tags.

Lagniappe and Zhuzhing combine in my world in so many ways. Take for instance a recent coffee on my porch with the neighbors. So many things to consider!

What cookies, candies or cognacs can I serve with it?

Where are my cute, vintage cocktail napkins and where are my antique silver teaspoons? And music – do we prefer Django Reinhardt, John Legend or jazz?

Do you need a pillow for your back or a blanket for your legs? And of course, I need a vintage serving tray to frame everything neatly into a picture, perfect vignette! Not that offering a cup of coffee isn’t enough, it is! But could it be more, SAY more, than just a cup of coffee? Could it be an entire experience to ignite all the senses – sight, sound, smell, taste and feel? More importantly, does it say – I care, I love you, you are special – here’s a little part of me that I choose to share with you.

Since gifts have been top of mind for me lately, let’s explore ways to add Lagniappe to any gift. I recently went sustainable shopping as I always do, at the Armadillo Antiques Mall in San Antonio, TX. I gathered so many ideas just walking around the place. Small paintings could be added to a stocking or used as ornaments on a tree.

I could add a vintage mini cookbook to a culinary gift or gift card.

Wrapping a special accessory with antique lace would touch a romantic friend’s sweet spot.

Vintage vinyl has come back in a BIG way! With that said, adding an old opera program, or a “Kiss” tshirt to the gift of music could engage more senses than just the vinyl alone. Stocking a friend’s bar with their favorite libation and these historically referenced bar glasses

could hit on two of their favorite pastimes— sipping a cocktail while reading about history. Now that’s Lagniappe!

Some cool cocktail napkins would really push this gift over the top!

As you know, I am ALWAYS thinking about fashion. This is where the Zhuzhing really kicks in! You also know, for the most part, I believe that more is more. So let’s look at those little something extras!

Recently, my business partner, Amanda Alarcón-Hunter of Minx and Onyx and I styled a new model photoshoot. We styled our asses off for over two hours straight and had a blast doing it! Unfortunately, we didn’t get the names of all the fresh faces, but we loved their energy and enthusiasm! With a limited amount of vintage clothing on our rack and a line a mile long out our fitting room door, we made styling magic happen.

Here are some of the styling – Zhuzhing – tactics we used to spice up this shoot…

Men Need Zhuzhing too!!!

We mixed prints with this vintage silk smoking jacket and nylon button down shirt.

Add a cool belt, a few chains and to top it all off, a scarf tucked into the front pocket – almost like a flower for this blooming mix of prints.

Texture, pattern and color bring this next look to life with a purple suede shirt used as a jacket over a vintage 70’s collared top, accented by gold jewelry and a Fab belt!

My favorite look is a little bit Pirate. You know I love me a good Pirate! We started with the vintage 70’s striped poly pants and added multiple belts and chains. The model’s own fitted tee and boots were the perfect foil to the scarf from the previous shoot used as a flourish that only a Pirate’s swagger could carry off!

Our female models had some fun as well [see above].

The vibe for the day was 70’s and this look on Carolyn Combs, epitomized the era to perfection! Quintessential jeans, a fringed suede vest and belt, platforms, braids and a Chanel barrett—Groovy baby!

Jonathan Ochart in another great shirt over shirt look – check out the cat with the lazer eyes on the shoulder.

Anyway, mixing stripes and checks and chains and gold cuffs – all under Kitty’s watchful eyes!

Sometimes a look doesn’t need much except a beautiful woman to pull it off! We do know this beauty, Dominique Ruffin, and this beautiful dress – a match made in Heaven! Two gold chain belts, fab shoes and one gold chain is all this vintage dress needed to transcend all Zhuzhing limitations!

Your Turn!

So hopefullly, I’ve Lagniapped and Zhuzhed my way into your lives by now.

Treat yourself and those you love to something a little extra today. You deserve it! And the world will be just a little bit sweeter for it!

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HIGH LIFE/HIGHLIGHT THE

PEPPER

WITH LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR JOE A. GOMEZ III The man in the mirror shouldn’t be a stranger.

THE GRAND

REINTRODUCTION There’s a reason New Year’s resolutions don’t stick and it’s simpler than you may realize. Most of us don’t know ourselves—not really, truly, deeply. Somewhere buried underneath the stress of the rat race, the anxiety of living up to expectations, and self-imposed biases and constraints is the person you truly are.

The school of philosophical thought offers many paths to self understanding. I’m taking the route to demystifying the whole thing.

Ama

zon

HEAD CASE Carl Gustav Jung was the Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who founded analytical psychology. I’m sure you’ve heard the term “shadow self”. Jung developed methods to help unravel the subconscious and bridge the gap between our primal instincts (or darkness) and our ego (or higher self).

For men specifically, we wrestle with ourselves internally on a level most will never see. That is until it goes unchecked and we lash out from frustration, turn to vices to self medicate, or engage in escapism to hide from discomfort.

Jung is a great place to start for self mastery.

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MEMENTO Let’s be honest—most of us don’t have time to write in a journal, or it’s just not our bag.

Thankfully most of our phones are equipped with voice memos & other apps for lengthy recording. Documenting your thoughts can help sort out what you‘re needing vs. what you want.

Rockville

habitat.

THE OVERHAUL

ge Red Cat Vinta Vintage Red Cat

Nowhere Bookshop

When it comes to choosing new looks and decor, remember “new to you” is better than straight from the factory. Get into the sustainability mindset by curating threads and goods from your local second hand stores and vintage shops. You’ll likely also be supporting small business in doing so. Two feel-good birds, one communityconscientious stone!

”To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.

Second Looks For Men

Target

- Ralph Waldo Emerson Apple

The Hayden

Never underestimate the power of a full out wardrobe purge and home makeover. Sometimes part of being stuck in a rut is tied to being stuck in the past—literally by the things we keep around and keep wearing.

Scrap the old to make room for who you want to be. Use it as an opportunity to donate to those in need and you’ll feel great helping your community.

Ston ewer ks

The General Public

EAT PRAY LOVE Food brings people together. It also brings you back to yourself. Aim to make an adventure of taking yourself on “dates” to your favorite spots for comfort food and libations. And better yet, make it a point to get out of your regular bubble and try foods and places you never would have thought about. The bonus here is you’re nourishing yourself in body as much as you are stimulating your mind and senses. Don’t forget to engage in conversation with strangers. You never know what wisdom they may impart.

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The Modern Gentleman’s Holiday Gift Guide

with PEPPER Magazine men’s style grooming expert, Andrew Barraza With holidays around the corner (and year round if we’re being practical), there are stereotypical gifts us fellas get that we never really want. Gone are the days of the lazy gift giving of ye ‘old ties and socks. What’s outdated, what’s favorable, how are these things used? I’m taking the guesswork out of gifting for the blokes in your life.

One of the best angles to go with is grooming products. Guys need to make time for self care too. Enter Cowell’s Beards, Australia.

“All Cowells Grooming Products are made from natural products and contain fragrance from essential oils. Our products are made from a range of beeswax, mango butter, shea butter, vitamin E oil.”

TOP SHELF GROOMING LINE DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE BASICS

IT’S THE THOUGHT THAT COUNTS

The tools can be just as great, as fillers.

An old adage that holds true—so why not put some thought into gifting things that are functional and make him feel good? “Cowells beard oils are designed to condition the skin and the beard, keeping your beard soft and you skin healthy, giving your beard the best base and every day nourishment.”

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MUSTACHE & BEARD TAMER

THE GIVE-BACK

“Cowells beard wax is designed to style and hold the beard for those who want to tame a beard that just likes to do its own thing.”

Another thing to consider when looking for the perfect gift is seeking companies that give back. Whether supporting small businesses or larger companies that are known for donating proceeds to causes that matter, it makes your dollars count on a deeper level.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

—Winston Churchill

WRAP IT UP A GREAT PACKAGE Cowell’s products (and many grooming companies) are now including durable bags and cases with your orders, which can double as gift packaging and be used as a small utility catch-all later.

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Go a more sustainable route by utilizing paper bags or butcher paper, ribbon scraps and dried floral and plant elements in your wrapping for a more formal presentation. He’ll love the effort.

COWELLS.COM.AU @cowellsbeards

NOVEM Cuisine

NOVEMCUISINE.weebly.com

@novem.cuisine

(512)965-3383

savor.

Robert Bjorn Taylor CHANGING THE RULES, ONE DRINK AT A TIME.

Photojournalist Corey Davenport

In a post Pandemic world and now looking back, many of us were given an opportunity to look in the proverbial mirror and face the harsh reality of not being content with the person we had been in the past. As a recovering addict and now two years sober, I was one of those people.

A night owl by nature and being constantly immersed in the bar/music venue scene, I have started searching for ways to enjoy those experiences while staying sober. In a society working to build a new "norm" during a time that thrives on flashy cocktails, flavored hard seltzers, and microbreweries, slowly but surely, we are beginning to see more innovators using nonalcoholic spirits and fresh boozy alternatives.

Robert is precisely that. He has taken his love and knowledge of the craft alongside his sobriety to shine a new light on an ever-growing profession.

"I became a consultant out of nowhere. Dude, I didn't know what the fuck I was gearing up for. It literally happened because I was curious to create my own content, which I didn't believe people were creating content, actually. Do you know

what I'm saying? You just gotta put some effort into it.

But, like, actually becoming a creator of stuff. Yeah, that's the shit that got me.

Although I'm creating alcoholic cocktails, I get a chance to influence menus with non-alcoholics and make them a little more inclusive. I get to introduce people to new products.

When we put a non-alcoholic drink on a menu with an alcoholic drink in the same category, people can tell if we put 0.5% "Oh, yeah, that's a low-proof or noproof drink." so why the fuck aren't we doing it? We do that with beer.

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When you go to a brewery they do the same thing because people want it, like "I'm not trying to drink a real high power beer right now." so they go for the low ABV or the lower ABV beer. So what's the difference with the cocktail menu?

Why not format it the same way? You're taking away the value of something passionately crafted because it's a "fake drink" so we aim to change that narrative.

I went to speak at a Bar and Restaurant expo, which was wild, dude. All this shit going on, then Fireball is like two aisles down with women blowing fire, horns, and shit going off, and I'm sitting there thinking this is nuts. One guy is over here talking about how not to drink, yet Fireball is over there with half-naked ladies pouring shots at the same time! That dichotomy is beautiful because you're looking at how this profession and industry has grown. The fact that you can have people sitting in a room talking about nonalcoholic stuff and then in that same room there's dudes like, “yeah let's get fucked up.” It's beautiful.

This culture, like drinking culture, will continue regardless of who's sober or who's pregnant or who's just in the wallet.

The consumption of alcohol will be around forever, but who will have the balls to actually talk about HOW we drink? Instead of how the liquor companies are just like, "Drink responsible and responsibly", then leave it alone. Like, that's it? What's the response?

Who's going to be vocal about that, like, hey, man, how about we start talking about mental health?

How about we start talking about how restaurants and bars would much rather give their staff beers than actually give them insurance?

I went to Oaxaca, to mezcal country. I still love tasting. My practice of sobriety is different. There's a lot of people that would be like, oh, that's not kosher, dude. You're putting yourself in danger, and I was like, no, not if I trust myself. I trust myself, and I've had too much good shit happening for me in my sobriety that I don't really care.

I find humor in the fact that I bartend and that I also attend meetings. I went to a meeting maybe two weeks ago, and I told them straight up, yeah, I'm still pouring liquor, and half the room looked at me crazy."

Then There Was Us. SINENKOSI MSOMI Mbabane, Mpolonjeni

IDENTITY IS FLUID Photographer Gabriel Toapanta Quito, Ecuador

culture.

“My name is Gabriel Toapanta.

I love photography and portraying different scenarios, elements, people, interacting with the gaze. Creating concepts in each photograph, capturing it and leaving beautiful unique memories, without a doubt, I share my passion with great talents.

Undoubtedly it is these beautiful experiences, models, photographers and makeup artists who make each job beautiful. Seeing the results is the most rewarding thing.”

Gabriel also took on the role of model, wardrobe and accessories designer for most of these culturally rich images. He’s joined by photographers Alexis L. Fares and Bryan Acosta to bring this series to life.

“I thank PAOLA MARQUEZ, MICHELLE ANTONELA, JHON OLALLA, EMI WINKLE, ESTEFANIA MUÑOZ and BRYAN ACOSTA for being part of these projects.”

TRANSIT

Photographer James Reade Venable New York City, NY

James Reade Venable, 43, is an actor, photographer and natural observer living in New York City.

“I am a born and raised New Yorker who is fascinated with the NYC Subway. There are always people and moments to capture as well as inspiration for conceptual photography. This series is a combination of images of people and things all directly involved with the NYC MTA system. There are images of people, most in unsettling moments and other ones of structural and still life.”

For better or for worse, this is the story of raw real life as told through his lens.

HUMANS OF

Northern Caucasus

KABARDINO-BALKARIAN REPUBLIC Photographer Liudmila Evstratova captured the Adigas, rich history and culture.

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HUMANS OF

Lebanon & Jordan

JOURNEY TO THE MIDDLE EAST Photographer Eric Zhang shares his travels and cultural encounters.

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PEPPER no. 7 | DECEMBER 2022

PASSPORT TALES OF MONEGROS

ARAGON, SPAIN

BY SEIGAR

TRAVEL This travel photo narrative tells the story of the Monegros desert and its haunting quality. Monegros is a county in Aragon, Spain located within the provinces of Zaragoza and Huesca.

Like many photographers that have been before inspired by this rural desert, I was attracted to this region to work on its landscapes, landmarks and little villages we find on the road.

The word Monegros comes from mon (countryside) and negros (black color). However, I could find many other warm colors and tones. The photos were taken in December 2021, and though not far from there we could find snow, this desertous area is famous for its blue skies and its semiarid climate, with barely any rainfall and high temperatures. Like any other Spanish destination, it offers traditions and a religious presence.

Monegros in my pop view became some curious buildings, mysterious trees, and big open sceneries. It is one of the most intriguing and unearthly places I have ever been. And the fact that it has a small population completed this vision.

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passport. conceptual artist & photojournalist Seigar

TRAVEL Some great facts about the Monegros desert as found via WikiTravel — “Its desert landscape, flora and fauna are unique to this part of the world. You can find ancient traditions and a rich cultural heritage such as the Monastery of Sijena or the birthplace of Miguel Servet. A variety of activities, exhibitions and events invite visitors to immerse themselves in Monegros and discover all that this beautifully scenic region has to offer. It is noted for its annual electronic music festival held in mid-July, the Monegros Festival.

Much of the landscape topography varies between 200 feet and 300 feet and is relatively flat semi-desert, with habitats of shrub-steppes prone to frequent droughts with high temperatures with hardly any rainfall (about 13.78 inches per year). Deserted farms and farm houses and juniperouswoods are also seen in scattered locations.

Conservation of the biodiversity in the steppe ecosystem of the Monegros of the Aragon region envisages habitat improvements for steppe birds and related plant life. However the setting up of a casino may adversely affect conservation efforts. The Aragon Steppes are cited as the largest habitat for bird communities in Spain. Highly endangered are great and little bustards, Eurasian stone-curlew, lesser kestrel, Montagu's harrier and Dupont's lark, as these species are directly threatened by changes in the steppe ecosystem. A project supported by BirdLife International at the "Muelas del Jiloca" Special Protection Areahas been launched to conserve the birds and plants.”

SEIGAR is a passionate travel, street, social-documentary, conceptual, and pop visual artist based in Tenerife, Spain. He feels obsessed with the pop culture that he shows in his works. He has explored photography, video art, writing, and collage. He writes for some media. His main inspirations are traveling and people. Seigar’s aim as an artist is to tell tales with his camera, creating a continuous storyline from his trips and encounters. He is

a philologist and works as a secondary school teacher. He is a selftaught visual artist, though he has done a two years course in advanced photography and one in cinema and television.

He has participated in several international exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events. His works have been featured in numerous publications worldwide. His latest interests are documenting identity and spreading the message of the Latin phrase: Carpe Diem.

Recently, he received the Rafael Ramos García International Photography Award. He shares art and culture in his blog: Pop Sonality. popsonality.blogspot.com 137

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Fit to a T. WITH NUTRITIONIST & FITNESS EXPERT TINA SENA

Expert Health Advice Nutrition at any age, the best foods for all bodies.

Lifestyle Tips & Resources Links, great products and places to try.

Fitness Techniques Things you can try at home or at the gym.

Fit to a T.

Know

Thyself Nutritionist & fitness expert Tina Sena

idea where to start then seek wise counsel.

There are plenty of resources at our fingertips ( literally) to help us. I can help you! One of the best things you can do for yourself is get to “know” yourself. The healthier you are the happier you are. The happier you are the greater your life becomes.

Health and happiness,

Listen to your body! Most of us have heard this expression many times but I’m wondering how many of us actually listen?

Tina works hands-on with clients in San Antonio, New Braunfels and surrounding areas.

Tina

I want to dig a little deep with you all here as I challenge you to come out of your comfort zone and start to pay some attention to yourself. I’ve been working on a personal level with my clients for over 25 years and I would say the majority of them came to me with almost no awareness of their bodies.

If we really want healthy bodies that look and feel good then we must do ALL we can to get them that way. That’s right y’all. It’s on “us”! We know what is good for us and what isn’t…. Or do we? If you aren’t where you want to be then I’m encouraging you to take the next step you need to take. If you have no

Find Tina online at tinasenaofficial.org or Instagram at @tinasenaofficial

Tina Sena

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HEALING PRACTITIONER

ROMY NAVA

A MODERN MYSTIC

How to Be Mindful and Intentional in Your Conversations Healing Practitioner Romy Nava

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives and lose touch with the people around us.

We may find ourselves distracted by our phones, computers, and other electronic devices, and we may not be fully present and engaged in our conversations with others.

But what if we could be more mindful and intentional in our communication? What if we could put aside our distractions and fully connect with the people we are speaking with? This is where conscious communication comes in.

Conscious communication is a way of interacting with others that is mindful and intentional. It involves being present and fully engaged in the conversation, listening actively, and expressing yourself clearly and honestly.

Here are some tips for practicing conscious communication:

1. Be present and fully engaged in the conversation. Put aside any distractions, such as your phone or other electronic devices so you may focus on the person you are speaking with.

2. Listen actively and attentively. Pay attention to what the other person is saying, and ask clarifying questions if you need to. Avoid interrupting or jumping to conclusions.

3. Express yourself clearly and honestly. Be open and transparent about your thoughts and feelings, and try to avoid being vague or evasive.

Be respectful of the other person's perspective, even if you don't agree with them.

4. Practice empathy and understanding. Try to see the situation from the other person's perspective, and consider their feelings and needs. Avoid making assumptions or judging the other person.

5. Be open to feedback and criticism. If the other person offers constructive feedback or criticism, listen carefully and consider their perspective.

Use it as an opportunity to learn and grow, rather than becoming defensive.

By practicing conscious communication, we can improve our relationships and create deeper connections with others. We can be more present and engaged in our conversations, and we can communicate more effectively and efficiently. We can also foster a greater sense of understanding and empathy, and we can build stronger, more meaningful connections with the people around us.

So the next time you find yourself in a conversation, take a moment to pause and be mindful. Put aside your distractions, listen actively, and express yourself openly and honestly. Practice conscious communication, and see the difference it can make in your relationships.

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POSITIVELY CRYSTAL

Motivational Mindset Coach Crystal Lopez-Crebs

L E T T O

As the year comes to an end, we get to reflect on all that has happened. There are many blessings we continue to celebrate, and the challenges that we have overcome are behind us. The finale of each year leads to the beginning of another cycle of future. We don’t know what lays ahead. However, we can already start to imagine what we want to bring into existence.

Setting yourself up for a successful new year starts even before Jan. 1st. A great way to set yourself up is to Let Go of things. I want to share 5 things that might be holding you back that I encourage you to let go of at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. 1.

Comparing yourself to Other People.

They say “Comparison is the thief of Joy”.

Comparison is only going to hold you back from your own greatness.

Unfortunately, in this day and age, social media has become the biggest culprit for us to observe people we know and “influencers” we don’t know. It’s so easy to compare yourself daily as you scroll through your feeds. Think about this though: you might be comparing yourself to someone’s chapter 20 when you’re only in your chapter 10, so you are doing yourself a disservice by comparing yourself to them.

We all have strengths and weaknesses that are uniquely ours. Remember, no one can be as you as YOU. There is only one you out there. You are worthy and you are enough, so just be the best you that you can be every day.

2.

Unsupportive People.

They say you’re the average of the five people you surround yourself with the most. If you are around people that aren’t supportive of you, it’s time to get around other people. And, I’m not saying that all the people around you are bad. But, if you have a dream and they are not supportive of you, make an intentional effort to get around people who will support you and lift you up. Those people don’t actually have to be physically in your life.

You can listen to a podcast, read or listen to a book,

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G O

S U C C E E D

watch inspiring and motivational content. Find something that will feed you more positivity and encouragement so that it trumps your unsupportive surroundings. Remember, you can’t change the people around you, but you can change the people around you.

3.

The Need to Control Everything.

Do you love to control everything? Are you one of those people?

Some people don’t realize they may actually be cutting off the flow of energy and abundance. (You’ve got to loosen that grip.)

Often, when you loosen things up, those things may happen in a bigger and better way that you never would have even imagined. The whole time you are controlling every single thing, you may be fighting a battle that could easily be defeated if you just allowed the unfolding. Control could also be a sign of insecurity, not strength. Don’t choke the flow. Try to take your hands off the reigns just a little bit and see what happens.

4.

The Need for Perfection.

Many times, what holds us back is fact that we want everything to be perfect before we start taking action. You are not perfect, I’m not perfect, nobody is perfect—we are human.

You might be familiar with the saying “Practice makes Perfect”.

Now, rephrase it and think of it more as “Practice makes Progress”. Every time you practice you are moving the needle ultimately in the right direction. If you hold yourself back until everything is perfect, you are just going to keep holding yourself back and not making any progress forward. Just take the action, and don’t beat yourself up if it’s not perfect.

One thing you might not realize when you see other successful people is that success is messy. Ask any successful person if the road to their success was smooth and easy. They will tell you it was not a straight line. The obstacles that they

psych. overcame helped to build the strong foundation that their success now sits upon. Just take the step, strive for extraordinary, and enjoy the ride.

5.

The Fear of Failure.

This may be one of the biggest things we all need to let go of. I’m sorry, but failure is inevitable at some point in your life. It could be a little failure, or it might be a big failure.

Now, most people subscribe to failure as being something negative, and if this is how you see it then it is not going to help you. I want to introduce you to a paradigm shift: try seeing failure as an opportunity to learn or get feedback. Failure could just be wrong timing. I also don’t want you to think that you can just fail all the time and everything will be ok. Do not allow a failure to paralyze you. Yes, fail forward, but also keep going forward in your life and go for your wins. You have to take risks in life if you really want to live life. And you will know what not to do the next time, because any kind of failure is a growth opportunity. That is only if you have the awareness to see it that way. Remember, you are not a failure.

You have a new beginning in front of you. What do you want to create? What is the vision you have for the next 30, 60, 90 days? Where do you want to be one year from now? If you don’t want to be in the same place you are currently, you have to do something you aren’t currently doing. YOU have the innate power to create the life you want.

My intention for you is that this next year will be the breakthrough you have been preparing for. I declare you to have 100% faith and belief in yourself, as I have 100% faith and belief in you. Go out and make your dreams come true. Cheers to your success!

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the paper psycholigist GUSTAVO OTERO

Madrid, Spain

psych.

"The dream of the reason produces monsters.”

—Francisco de Goya y Lucientes My name is Gustavo Otero. I was born in Argentina and I have lived in Madrid, Spain for thirty years. I am an illustrator, magician and animator to reading [a story illustrator]. I have published a lot of books with my illustrations and worked in graphic press.

AND WHAT IS THE PAPER PSYCHOLOGIST? I began the Paper Psychologist during the pandemic, when we were confined, and we had to make use of the time not to fall into depression. As a cartoonist, I am used to drawing at all times, taking advantage of waiting time in airports or entertaining myself in cafeterias and bar tables, drawing on paper napkins. But what to draw?

When you draw without thinking, it's like drawing while talking on the phone—little doodles of automatic drawing. And that's what I did. I made some concertina notebooks with 150

scraps of cardboard that I had in my wastebasket and I started to draw. But I wanted more so I followed Da Vinci's advice—what a counselor!

“Way to stir the ingenuity to invent : I want to insert among the precepts that I am giving a new invention of speculation, that although it seems of little moment, and almost worthy of laughter, not for that reason it ceases to be very useful to enliven the ingenuity to the fertile invention; and is, that when you see a wall stained in many parts, or some marbled stones, you will be able, looking at them with care and attention, to notice the invention and resemblance of some countries, battles, ready attitudes of figures.”

—TREATISE OF PAINTING Leonardo Da Vinci Painting Treaties § XVI I invented my own damp stains with watercolors and inks and I began to look for shapes and characters in them. Da-Vinci speaks of looking at

the clouds in the sky, at the damp stains on the walls, which in Renaissance palaces should be many. And in doing so, I found a way to combat the apathy caused by the pandemic.

“I paint because the spirits whisper madly inside my head.”

—El Greco I don't know if the spirits whispered to me; rather they shouted at me, which allowed me to ramble onto the paper without having to think.

Sometimes ghosts appear to you—it's what automatic drawing does. The surrealists and the Dadaists have always used this method.

“Take a good look at me! I am an idiot, I am a fraud, I am a joker. Take a good look at me! I am ugly, my face is expressionless, I am small. I'm just like all of you!"

—Dadaist 5. Tristan Tzara Everything stays on paper, it's a way of undressing. It was my therapy. That’s why I called it The Paper Psychologist.

“I dream of painting and then I paint my dreams.” —Vincent van Gogh Now the pandemic is over. All in all, everything is fine for my family, although I know it was a tragedy for many people and we were all somewhat affected by this crisis. We live in a convulsive world where many people suffer daily, and sometimes a healthy distraction is

needed to take refuge. Mine is some cardboard and some ink. As I continue with the experience, I don't know where it will take me but I wanted to share it with all of you. I hope you enjoy it.

[Give it a try yourself—see what ghosts speak to you…]

ON MY BACKGROUND I studied in Argentina design and advertising promotion at the Fernando Fader Design School and then gained a Fine Arts degree at The Prilidiano Pueyrredon National School of Fine Arts.

Since the nineties, I’ve lived in Madrid. There I worked in magazines and advertising agencies and later I set up my studio of advertising illustrators "Otero & Vega" in 1991. I came to Spain and began to collaborate as an illustrator in SM in the Steamboat books like A Monster in the Closet by Carmen Vázquez Vigo, for which I was an illustrator, won the National Prize for Children's Literature.

I also made countless textbooks for Santillana Sm, Bruño, Edelvives and Anaya, as well as collaborating with advertising agencies and in newspapers and magazines as an illustrator. In the press, I illustrated for years the weekly column by the writer Juan José Millás in the Interview magazine. In the same magazine, I previously illustrated the poems of Joaquín Sabina during the years in which he collaborated in that medium.

I have staged various entertainment shows for reading and magic where I perform in libraries and 151

Cultural Centers in addition to the Book Fair, Mapfre, Bibliobús, Instituto Cervantes, La Casa Encendida and the National Library in Madrid. conduct reading animations [story illustrations] for SM and Edelvives for much of the year.

I’ve created different shows and online workshops for libraries and schools in Spain, Morocco and the USA, and a workshop for the Granada Art Museum that is in the Alhambra.

I studied magic with Juan Tamaríz and Arturo de Ascanio, two of the most important magicians in Spain and in the world. I collaborate with the Abracadabra foundation for solidarity magicians and I am a magical volunteer at the Niño Jesús Hospital in Madrid.

A GIFT FROM GUSTAVO FOR OUR SPANISH READERS El psicólogo de papel.

Gustavo Otero “El sueño de la razón produce monstruos.

Francisco de Goya y Lucientes.”

Mi nombre es Gustavo Otero, nací en Argentina y hace treinta años que vivo en Madrid España. Soy ilustrador, mago y animador a la lectura. He publicado un montón de libros con mis ilustraciones y trabajado en prensa gráfica. ¿Y qué es el psicólogo de papel?

Comencé con el Psicólogo de papel, en la pandemia, cuando estábamos confinados, y había que utilizar el tiempo para no caer en una depresión. Como dibujante estoy acostumbrado a dibujar en todo momento, a aprovechar el de 152

tiempo de esperas en aeropuertos o a entretenerme en cafeterías y mesas de bar dibujando sobre servilletas de papel. ¿Pero qué dibujar? Cuando uno dibuja sin pensar es como el que dibuja mientras habla por teléfono, pequeños garabatos de dibujo automático. Y eso es lo que hice, me armé unos cuadernos de concertina con restos de cartulinas que tenía en mi papelera y me puse a dibujar, pero quería mas así que seguí el consejo de Da Vinci, menudo consejero.

TRATADO DE LA PINTURA Leonardo Da Vinci Da-Vinci-Leonardo-Tratados-de-pintura § XVI. Modo de avivar el ingenio para inventar.

Quiero insertar entre los preceptos que voy dando una nueva invención de especulación , que aunque parezca de poco momento, y casi digna de risa, no por eso deja de ser muy útil para avivar el ingenio á la invención fecunda : y es, que cuando veas alguna pared manchada en muchas partes, o algunas piedras jaspeadas, podrás, mirándolas con cuidado y atención, advertir la invención y semejanza de algunos países, batallas, actitudes prontas de figuras. Me inventé mis propias manchas de humedad con acuarela y tintas y me puse a buscar formas y personajes en ellas, Da-Vinci habla de mirar las nubes en el cielo, en las manchas de humedad de las paredes, que en los palacios renacentistas deberían ser muchas., y encontrar, se fue haciendo una forma de combatir la abulia que producía la pandemia.

“Pinto porque los espíritus me susurran locamente dentro de mi cabeza. (El Greco)”

No sé si los espíritus me susurraban a mí, más bien me gritaban, lo que me permitían divagar sobre el papel sin tener que pensar. A veces se te aparecen fantasmas, es lo que tiene el dibujo automático, ya lo usaban los surrealistas y los Dadaistas.

“Dadá 5. TRISTAN TZARA ¡Mírenme bien! Soy un idiota, soy un farsante, soy un bromista. ¡Mírenme bien!

Soy feo, mi cara carece de expresión, soy pequeño. ¡Soy como todos ustedes!”

Todo queda en el papel, es una manera de desnudarse, fue mi terapia por eso lo llamé el Psicólogo de papel.

“Sueño con pintar y luego pinto mis sueños.”

Vincent van Gogh” Y la pandemia se superó.

Dentro de todo bien para los míos, aunque sé que fue una tragedia para mucha gente y todos quedamos algo tocados por la esta crisis.

Vivimos en un mundo convulso, donde mucha gente sufre diariamente, y a veces hace falta una parcela donde refugiarse, la mía son unas cartulinas y unas tintas.

Y sigo con la experiencia, no sé dónde me llevará, pero quería compartirla con ustedes, espero que la disfruten.

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HELP A YOUNG NEURODIVERGENT ARTIST LINK : peppermagazine.myshopify.com/collections/art-prints

• ART FOR ENGINEERING •

Autistic child artist Aiden Gamez is raising money for STEM learning toys, equipment, art supplies and other tools he needs as he pursues engineering sciences and art.

Please consider supporting his endeavor by purchasing his original artwork, signed prints or postcards.

DECEMBER 2022

prodigy.

L I T T L E

M I S S

SUNSHINE

M E E T

D A H L I A

S A N

journalist K. Day Gomez

S C H W A R T Z ,

A N T O N I O ,

A G E

T E X A S

7

Meet Dahlia Schwartz, a 7 year old model and pageant princess from San Antonio. At the age of 8 months, she entered her first pageant and won. From that point on, she‘s proven unstoppable.

After winning a Texas title at 4 years old, she traveled to Las Vegas and won the title of Tiny Miss Regency International. Over the years, she has held several Texas titles in pageantry and has competed in model competitions. She’s walked in New York Fashion Week twice. Summer of 2022, she placed 2nd runner up for World’s Perfect Model Search.

Her resume is already impressive, but Dahlia has more substance than just the runway and shows alone. She takes classes for acro and

production to keep herself well rounded.

She has begun to focus more on runway and has been honored to walk for local designers.

Being 7 and in second grade, it isn’t always easy to find modeling work. However, Dahlia has been fortunate enough to be noticed and given opportunities. She currently holds the title of 2021 / 2022 Texas Perfect Little Miss About her experiences in the industry from the beginning, she tells us, “I’ve spent a lot of time on stage and love modeling every outfit. When I won an International title in Las Vegas, I was invited to walk in New York Fashion Week and I loved it! After that, I loved runway modeling so much that I wanted to do more.”

Who are your biggest helpers? “My mom and dad.

My mom always finds my the prettiest competition wardrobe and my dad travels with us and helps get my things ready and cheers me on. My grandma and grandpa always tried to go to every competition or show. Now its only my grandma but I know my grandpa watches me from heaven.” [*pardon us while we tear up a little bit.*] We asked Dalhia who has inspired her most over time? “My mom, because she has done so much of my training and used to compete and model when she was younger and she’s still always learning something new. I look up to her and want to be like her.” With such a strong female role model playing an important role in her upbringing , we have no doubt she’ll be just as self sufficient and empowered as mom when she grows up.

Causes and charitable efforts are important to Dahlia and her family.

“When I was 3 years old, my mom and I came up with Dolli’s Dogs.

Dolli’s Dogs was my way of gathering pet supplies that local shelters need during summer and winter to help out with the pets waiting for their homes. Also, for Christmas last year my family sponsored 3 families and provided a Christmas meal and gifts for all the kids. My mom always says 159

that if you can help, then do so.”

PUTTING ON A

SHOW

Show business has been part of her reality before she could really remember anything else.

The stage is as common to Dalhia as a playground. “Since I have been on stage my whole life, its been a normal thing for me to “put on a show”. That’s what my mom always tells me right before I hit the stage, “Put on a show. Show the world who you are”. I think a lot of people think its all fancy and glam but you really have to put some work into it.

It’s super fun, though. I have made friends from all over the world and its great to see each other succeed and cheer everyone on. The hardest part for me is right before it’s my turn to go on stage. I start getting nervous and worried that I might fall or mess up. But as soon as I hit that stage, all my worries go away and I remember to have fun with it.” She’s honest about the nerves of stage fright being unavoidable. But her positive outlook on moving past it is all the strength she needs.

We want to be forthcoming that modeling is in fact a career and not all fun and games. Careers can be demanding, and is no exception in regard to being young. We asked the important questions— Do you think modeling will ever begin to overlap with school? Do you plan on taking on acting as well? The busier you get, have you thought about life changes that might be coming and does it make you excited, nervous, both? “There has been a couple times where I’ve had to travel out of state for a show. I only ever miss a day or 2 but I always get my work done and my school is very supportive.

I tried acting but I didn’t like it so I don’t think I’ll be doing that. I do production dance—it’s a form of dance / acting. I just did Belle and the Beast in October. I got to perform many dance numbers and played the enchanted foot stool dog. My mom said I was “the cutest foot stool doggy” she has ever seen.

I love staying busy! I get very excited for every opportunity.”

And speaking of important, Dahlia has her own ideas about the kinds of change she’d like to see. “I would like to see more people coming together through all forms of art. Sometimes, my mom and her friends get together for art days and they include me. We all have fun together and compliment each other. I think that if more people would come together and do fun things, everyone would get along and realize that you have things in 161

common with people you didn’t think you would.”

What’s in store for the future?

“One day, I hope everyone knows my name and sees me in magazines and TV for my work. I want to be able to show everyone that anyone can make it.” We asked if she has good advice to impart to other kids and young adults who are seeking a career in the modeling and entertainment industry? “You have to work at it. You have to train and do your research on technique and polish your skills. You will get many ‘no’s” in this field, but there will be some “yes’s”. That’s when you “put on a show” and show the world who you are.

Don’t ever give up on what you want. Sometimes you will want to give up. You won’t want to practice or keep going. That is when you have to pick yourself up and do it. I have had a couple days where I don’t want to do it anymore. I have lost pageants and told my mom I was done. The next day, I shook it off and thought that this is my time to improve for the next time. You can do it too!”

Coming up next—“I have a couple fashion shows lined up, and in March I will be competing for another Texas title in hopes of representing Texas at a national competition.”

In case you’d like to follow and support Dahlia, or are a kid yourself and would like to make friends or become pen pals, she’s available online. “I have an Instagram, its @schwartz_dahlia. My mom and I both run it.”

RETURN OF THE MATRIARCH

STREAMING ON ALL PLATFORMS

@returnofthematriarch

Messages of youth & female empowerment.

Andrea ‘Vocab’ Sanderson x Aminah Decé

THE DAY WHEN I WAITED FOR THE WIND FLASH FICTION AUTHOR JONATHAN DARREN GARCIA SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS X PHOTOGRAPHER COURTNEY CHESTNUT

“​ What is snow like?” Rosemary asks cheerfully as she lay, feet kicking the air, next to her brother staring at the ceiling.

They liked to stare up at the lines of the barren stone wall and create stories and pictures. Her brother smiled and declared he did not remember what snow looked like. But he remembered what it felt like. It was his first memory that he could pull from the barrel of his heart through the back of his eyes.

Running through the thick frigid mass empty of the sun. Staring down at his tiny tightly covered feet as they sank down—squeaking over and over again. The jacket was so constricting that he could barely move his arms toward his chest and all that peeked out of the red sleeves were

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his reluctant fists.

He thought the clouds had fallen onto the ground and he was being carried by the folding squalls. He thought that the smoky breath that he exhaled created the wisps. The whole world was flying atop this boundless heaven. He ran and ran aimlessly looking down with a smile that hurt and all he saw was more and more clouds underneath him.

At the end, his father was shouting with a colorful concern “Where had you gone!?” before he leapt into his fathers warm embrace, as if the wind regarded him and placed him safely where he needed to be.

“Do you remember what fathers hugs felt like Rosemary?”

lit.

I’M A DEAD POET AUTHOR NJABULO NKAMBULE / SWAZILAND, SOUTH AFRICA X PHOTOGRAPHER AHMED ADLY / EGYPT

I’m not your regular poet, I’m not the person you used to know.

I’ve changed everything about me Except that my words are the same.

Ever gazed at the mirror hoping for a better result, Only to get a reflection of your corpse?

I’m so assertive with the pen, It blossoms daily, For its influence to smell sweet as it creates.

I’m not just any poet— I’m a dead poet with no feelings, With a frail heart.

I’m only left with my white bones Who act as my power ink.

Your tears are my blood, Your cries are my paper.

I don’t just write, I bleed on that sheet.

My writings are not for everyone; Only a few relate to them.

I’m an inspiration to some.

But many who I know, Intentionally turn a blind eye.

They want me to be housed by my bones, With the flesh tied to the dust.

My soul is exposed to the stars, Unique meanings to all the scars.

My eyes see a lifetime from afar.

I have had a journey, I have exhausted my whole energy.

I’m completely a dead poet.

Like a flower, My wisdom and power grows from graveyards too.

I’m a dead poet With life-giving words.

Sit with me if you can.

You don’t have to be like that— Don’t be frigid.

You might also grow white bones, Outgrow your plumpness.

If my words were food, God would dine with me, You can sharpen your teeth, Cursed words won’t be served.

I’m a dead poet with words full of life.

My eyes have housed many storms, Disappointments and betrayal Have been my new friends.

I have known anguish dressed in foreign dresses.

My eyes have seen the worst; I have witnessed hope dying slowly from a distance, Disputes been here, always present I had already given up…

I’m a dead poet, Bury me again in my exquisite, dreary grave.

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PRESSED FOR TIME THEATRICIAN, ACTIVIST & WRITER ADRIJA JANA KOLKATA, INDIA X PHOTOGRAPHERS UJJWAL JAJOO, NUDDLE & DEBASHIS RC BISWAS / INDIA Momma, I'm pressed for time…

I know you wanted me to have long hair But the dust of the streets that we march along But the dust of the streets we march on all night long Won't allow it.

Momma, I'm pressed for time…

I know you wanted me to have soft hands But the harsh pressure on the weak in our society The pressure harsh on the weak in our society Won't allow it.

Momma, I'm pressed for time…

I know you wanted me to have a quiet voice But the muffled cries and the burnt out lives But the burnt out lives and the muffled cries

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Won't allow it.

Momma, I'm pressed for time…

I know you wanted me to be surrounded by flowers and gentle fabric But the rumbling of the hunger and the roar of the gun But the roar of the gun and the rumbling of hunger Won't allow it.

Momma, I'm pressed for time…

I know you wanted me to live in a mansion But the piles of dead in the underground prison and the poison of darkness of no education But the poison of darkness of no education and the piles of dead in the underground prison Won't allow it.

Momma, I'm pressed for time…

I know you wanted me to settle down But the homeless out there on the street and the ones with scars of torture repeat But the ones with scars of torture repeat and the homeless out there on the street Won't allow it.

Momma, I'm pressed for time…

I know you wanted me to be a princess But the greed the jealously the cruelty the deceit But the deceit the cruelty the jealousy the greed Has thrust the sword into my hand.

So you have to peel away a part of yourself The part that wishes I was someone else Your daughter was born to be a warrior.

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L I N K T R . E E / D A B L U E K I D D I E

Fashionforlifesa.org Facebook.com/fashionforlifes a Instagram: @fashionforlifesa

get involved.

written by Richie Combs Can you imagine having to hide your identity? Many young people are unsupported in their journey of self acceptance and self discovery. In times of political unrest, queer youths’ journey is discussed in news broadcasts and debates fueled by fear and a lack of education. There is a disconnect between youths’ understanding of themselves and the public’s expectation of their expression.

Everyone desires acceptance, community and respect.

Fiesta Youth provides a “safe, non-judgmental, affirming place for LGBTQIA young people to express and explore who they are through education, peer-support and friendship.” In order to further support the young queer community in San Antonio, we chose Fiesta Youth as the main beneficiary of our fashion event.

For DreamWeek 2023, we are hosting a fashion show inspired by this year’s theme of “Identity and Representation.” Our event features multiple artists, designers and creatives of various backgrounds. We emphasized including models and designers who would not otherwise appear in the mainstream fashion industry. For an entertaining evening, please attend our fashion show, “Dreaming of Haute,” on Sunday, January 22nd from 3-6pm. For more information on ticket pricing and VIP packaging, please scan the QR code on our flyer.

disquiet.

Photo-based artist Nancy Grace Horton Portsmouth, New Hampshire journalist K. Day Gomez

MS. BEHAVIOR

Nancy Grace Horton is a photo-based artist who embraces both analog and digital techniques to create bold narrative fragments fed by her background in photojournalism. Her series Ms. Behavior utilizes gender roles as inspiration to stimulate a feminist discussion. She holds an MFA from Lesley University Art + Design.

She is an Adjunct Professor of Photography and also conducts creative workshops. Her Learning to See school and community projects in the US and abroad work with students of all ages to use photography to explore personal identity, their communities and are incorporated into the learning environment.

“I am drawn to making pictures, framing a scene; arranging objects, colors, light. I am a visual storyteller making images that can be fragmented and cryptic. Visually pleasing, the overall mission is to prod at female subjugation, to spark observations about equality.

Working as a photo-based artist, I embrace the varying possibilities of creating a photographic image through contemporary and historic methods. I am drawn to creating bold narrative graphic fragments and often emphasize fashion and the figure. I utilize gender roles as inspiration to provoke thought and stimulate discussion. Using humor, and irony— I present issues using photography to draw attention to inequalities.

Arriving with a final print, I am intrigued by the possibilities of what further I can create with the image, what other surfaces I might print on, or how else I may construct the pictures into three-dimensional and multimedia ideas.” Nancy gives us a little insight into her background.

“I was in my late 20s when I realized some of my work had a deeper meaning, a psychological power that would provoke reaction. I became interested in developing the power my work could have. To that end I started using a different camera format. I started to push the narrative in my work. I combined the psychological effect with my interests in fashion, color, and the female form.

It started with Entrada, a body of work that purposely tries to make the viewer feel a certain specific feeling. That of the mystery of entering a new and unknown place. After I realized I could use my work to make people feel things, I found myself searching for my personal manifesto and wanting to convey a meaningful message. The gender work was always inside of me, I think it took that first step (of Entrada) for me to realize I could use my work conceptually.”

Practicality, as for most American families, was paramount in Nancy’s case. “The usual “How are you going to make a living?” question came up once, as I went off to college. And that certainly had an impact on my initial sensibility. But when the roads became divided, I chose the road less traveled. I met people who were adventurers and dreamers and said things like they were going to travel around the world, and I thought, “I want to do that!” So I saved my money for two years and did. Ultimately, my family have always supported my endeavors.”

Prior to that, she found inspiration in television, though not in a typical way. “In my mid-teens, I saw a TV show that featured a young woman who was a fiesty photojournalist. She was an independent, adventurous woman, making her own career out of using a camera. What an inspiration! She was a rare role model for the times back then. Not only did this fictional person inspire me to become a 177

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photographer, she inspired my lifestyle, and she inspired the general direction of my gender work.

In a way, I am now trying to do to people what that girl did to me.

question what it is, and how we believe and act. I like to focus on the stereotypes and clichés pushed by the media, and the toys that mold us as we play with them.

In general, to this day, I am always inspired by independent creative women, who ruffle feathers and get things done.”

My messages are cryptic, but my images are bold. I manipulate the objects that are assigned to the genders. I create curious references to a story, with the goal of generating mysterious feelings as the viewer tries to figure out what is going on. Clearly, or not so clearly, a women is pushing her way out of the box.”

Her work carries strong messages that often have feminist subtext. “I use my artwork to explore the objectification and suppression of women.

A system of oppression is engrained in our lives and culture; women are subjugated by an invisible hand, and we unwittingly go along with it. As a young woman, Killing Us Softly, the 1979 documentary on Jean Kilbourne, gave me the false impression that these problems were dealt with. But as I matured, I was appalled to realize that, no, things have become worse in many ways.

I see my work as an opportunity to look right back into this system in such a way as to

When it comes to actively cultivating change, Horton believes conversation, holding an open dialogue is at the core of making that happen.

“Encouraging people to change is a major purpose of my work. The point of my work is to get people to notice what they haven’t really noticed, to think about it, and then to talk about it.”

As an artist, she holds a steady vision of where she’d like to be. “I long for a stretch of time to focus on my work, to play and study, and collaborate with others. I hope my career continues to bring my work to exhibitions and to public and private collections. I

want to have more galleries representing me. I look forward to continuing to show and lecture about my projects and career, and to have conversations with varying audiences. These activities help me develop my work.”

To those seeking a serious career in the arts, one that can actually sustain, Horton imparts, “Someone starting out in the arts will benefit by mastering complimentary skills, like writing and marketing, to allow one to support themselves and give themselves the freedom to make their own work.” Think like a business owner / manager— after all, until you reach a certain point in your career, you’ll likely be responsible for managing your own work. The more you understand the inner workings of the art business, the more empowered you’ll be.

She has some impactful things on the horizon. “A short documentary film based on my “Becoming Grey” project has just come out and has been submitted to film festivals. I have a show at Jessica Hagen Gallery in Newport coming up this summer. In general I am always pondering new angles to examine gender roles and stereotypes.

Talking to you is pretty exciting! When I told my gallerist in Newport that I was being interviewed by a woman from Texas, she said she had never met a woman from Texas who was not dynamic and powerful and feminine. And I thought wow that’s exactly you.” [*I’m legitimately humbled by this and the feeling is absolutely mutual.]

Nancy Grace Horton’s work has been exhibited at the Newport Art Museum, The Danforth Museum, The Griffin Museum, the New York Photo Fest the A.I.R. Gallery in Brooklyn, NY and in numerous solo exhibitions. Her work is part of personal collections and is included in the Newport Art Museum, and the Danforth Art Museum’s permanent collection. Nancy Grace Horton is the recipient of several grants and awards including several Artist Entrepreneurial Grants from the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts.

“I refer to myself as a photography-based artist because I am actively engaged in exploring a wide range of possibilities for what I can do with my images. I explore alternative processes for producing images, and make books, works on fabric and film production.”

She is represented by Jessica Hagen Contemporary Gallery, Newport, RI. You can inquire or become a patron by contacting : • Jessica Hagen Fine Art Gallery, Newport, RI • Robin Rice Gallery, NYC • Or contacting Nancy directly via email at ngh@hortonphoto.com or on Instagram @nancygracehorton .

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WRITING FROM THE MARGIN Author Tony Lashden Belarus

”I'm a queer feminist writer from Belarus and co-funder of a queer initiative in Minsk "tender na gender". During the last three years, I lived in Ukraine from where I had to evacuate due to the Russian invasion in February 2022.

I'm a vocal anti-war activist and writer who dedicates their energy to bring forward marginalized voices.

This piece of my text explores the topics of language and identity, as well as precarious state of writers and activists in Eastern Europe. In this autofictional text, I share the exhaustion and vulnerability I experience as a migrating queer person and the traumatizing, silencing effect the war has on me..”

I’m writing, I’m writing, I’m writing…and now I cannot write anymore.

I’m looking at the news about dead bodies.

My own body imitates stillness—my back hurts, my fingers are crooked from spasm.

My tongue, my language lays numb.

I open my mouth, I sip the hot summer air, as if it’s tea. The sweat runs down my spine. I need to extract the pain of this numbness; I need to use it, as a marble stone. Make it elegant, neat, appealing to others.

My pain can’t become a well-written text; it won’t even make it into a semi-mediocre poem. The sand doesn’t turn into gold; the glass doesn't become diamonds —my blunt, overwhelming pain has already settled into its final form.

Heavy, stiff, it hides in me. * What does it mean for me—to write?

I’m exclusively guided by narcissistic inclinations.

I’m very afraid of death, it’s a central issue of all my creative processes. Every second when I’m not occupied with much hated activist work I either plan how to die or, immobilized by fear, I think, specifically, how I’ll die. I shuffle these bitter thoughts until I feel sick.

That’s why I write.

I fantasize how I'll become famous—and then, finally, it won't be that scary to die. I’ll leave something meaningful, something that outlives me. People will recognize me and ask for autographs in the cafes. I’ll feel that I’ve made an input. They will put a bronze memorial plate on the house where I lived in Minsk and everyone will know that I’ve created my most significant works in the middle of the fire pit while the world I used to inhabit was burned down.

When I read about all the forgotten women poets and writers, when I look at these lists of people tirelessly working year after year, when I see these names that I've never heard of and they say nothing to me, I suffocate from desperation that knows no comparison— Why am I afraid of dying? In this culture, in this country I’m already dead.

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There is a minor flaw in my fantasy, since I write short stories. I don’t have time for any other forms of prose. So what “most significant works” can I possibly have? The last time I had an idea for a novel I was sixteen. I thought that if I write about falling in love (and then falling out of love), I will make a fresh, daring, and, in some parts, avant-garde text.

Creative process doesn’t bring me any joy. I feel sweaty and smelly when I write. I don’t like anything I produce. Every text after a certain amount of time looks like a pile of talentless mess, and I'm amused that they are selected for any publications.

I’m anxious that even in anonymous open calls my texts are selected for some other achievements : I’m a migrant, a survivor of dictatorship, queer—a body of many victims. It’s difficult to believe that I can write. When I read my own texts, they crumble. I see only defects, inaccuracy of intonations, weakness of phrases.

Among all the writers, I'm the least favourite one for myself. * What does it mean for me—to write?

(Only incorrect answers.)

Writing means expressing my core, exploring my internal setup and relations with others.

Writing means finding the wound and tapping into it, diving into its rotten, slimy middle.

Writing means being brave, saying the truth about oneself and others, facing the fear of being honest and direct.

something.

Writing means mourning those whom I’m constantly losing and those who part with me, transforming our collective hurt into the text.

I write in snatches, stolen pieces of time between activism and depression. On the best days, I have an hour that I can spend working with text. I carry all my unfinished works with me, mentally reviewing them from time to time not to forget what I wanted to write about.

Writing means nourishing an old habit that I’m always about to drop, but at the very last moment, I give in again. * When I used to have an eating disorder, I made myself vomit. I stood in front of the toilet, opened my mouth widely and pushed a toothbrush so far in the throat that I choked. I remember how the body painfully arched and, with enormous efforts, after a series of muscle cramps, I puked pieces of food.

It was exhausting, and I promised myself not to do it again – I was petrified by the unpleasantness of the sensation.

This is what writing means for me. * What does it mean to be a good female writer?

It means using accessible and understandable language that is addressed both to oneself and others.

In this text, I don't use inclusive lexis or gender gaps (that, I believe, will increase its chances to be noticed and read). In moments like this I think what if it’s not the violent nature of the world but rather my own humiliating self-censorship that oppresses me?

Being a good female writer means having a writing routine and writing regularly.

But I'm always too tired.

Of course, I constantly forget what I wanted to write about.

Dozens, hundreds of empty sheets with my amazing, ironic, subtle text that were never put down.

Each day I'm occupied with issues of surviving. I need to work, since I have no other source of income. Despite what is happening with me, how I feel and whether I have any energy, I work. I have no one to borrow money from, and even if I had, I’d be ashamed to take it.

Besides, one has to pay back for everything that was borrowed, sooner or later, and sometimes the final price is much higher than the original one.

When I was a teenager, during our quarrels my mother counted all the things she bought for me, with their prices. I’m still followed by the visions of this torture where she monotonously recalls this list —from underwear to my tutors in English, from food to my operations, from toilet paper to my studies abroad —and the list never ends, it never ends, and I think which job to take, how to sell my labour, where to find money to repay her all the expenses and finally make her stop.

I spent my first honorarium as a writer for books and psychotherapy. Maybe I should have used the money for more significant investments, but it burned my hands.

I got them by lying that I’m capable of writing.

This text is being written for five minutes during one week of vacation and then is convulsively edited at a work meeting. I’m not sure how this text will end, as I didn’t have enough time to think about it.

* I write in Russian (what does it mean for me? for my country? for my identity?). I write in Belarusian (what does it mean for me? for my country? for my identity?).

I don't have time for writing. In my do-to list, writing is always the last point, I leave it as an option. If I’m not too tired, I could sketch

They ask me in the interviews: “What does it mean to be Belarusian and write in Russian?” – I don’t know.

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On social media, I used to get dozen messages a day where people threatened to rape me because I wrote: “It’s correct to say Belarus, not Belarussia. Belarussia is non-existent since 1991, when we acquire our independence”.

It’s not appropriate to share things like this in the interviews.

Instead, I say: “We need to decolonise the Russian language. The Russian language is not the property of Russia. We can’t leave the language that we speak and write and live through with our bodies to the propaganda. We need to cherish our culture in its fullness, recognizing its complexity and contradictions. Our culture is the culture of margins, culture of borderlines”.

Who are those “we” in my speech, if the most parts of my life in Belarus were spent in complete isolation from everyone?

It’s a good response, though. Yet, maybe I’m just trying to justify my laziness, unwillingness to use the Belarusian language. I’m more comfortable writing in Russian, as I spent my whole life talking about it, performing it, believing that it expresses me. My Belarusian is a language of school, a fruit that grew from tedious, nauseatingly boring lessons. All the members of my family who spoke Belarusian as their mother tongue died two generations before me.

I’ve heard my grandmother saying only a single word in Belarusian in her whole life. When she shared the story of how her family was shot by the Soviet authorities, she said: “And with this gan’ba (shame) we continued to live. A family of class enemies”. ((This is, of course, an imaginary interview. No one asks me about such things. It’s a complicated question that is of interest to no one. Usually the journalists ask: “So, what do Belarusians think about Putin? Do they like him or not?”- this is the permissible level of depth they allow me and my country.) * When we discuss what type of text could be published in Belarus now, I'm told: “You perfectly understand the situation, right?”.

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I don’t understand a thing.

Life in Belarus is spent among the lacunas, the empty spaces. I can’t talk about some topics, and about others I can’t write. My experience is an experience of forced silence—awkward, embarrassed attempts to smuggle my existence into a text.

Here is the text I’m allowed to write : Когда началось полномасштабное вторжение в Украину, я, как последняя дрянь, лежала в своей кровати в отеле в горах и смотрела на рассвет. Увидев новости о стрельбе на границе, я непочувствовала ничего, кроме тотального и беспросветного ужаса. Я не думала ни про Украину, ни про Россию. Я думала только о том, как мне забрать мою пожилую собаку из Минска. Я лежала и плакала потому, что знала, что мне не удастся ее забрать и я оплакивала нашу разлуку, нашу дружбу.

I don’t want to understand the situation; I don’t want to understand anything about it. * I'm locating Russian on my body.

Here are my стопы – feet.

Here is my пизда – cunt.

Here is my bloating from menstruation живот – stomach.

Here are my ребра – ribs, all covered with tattoos.

Here is my open war рана.

Here is my open war рана.

Here is my open war рана.

Here is my bleeding war wound.

I’m writing, I’m writing, I’m writing…and now I cannot write anymore.

I’m looking at the news about dead bodies.

My own body imitates stillness—my back hurts, my fingers are crooked from spasm.

My tongue, my language lays numb.

U N I O N

O F

T H E

That look...the dog loves you just because you are.

Pets are the best antidepressants in our troubled times. They have literally every minute “competition” for cuteness on Instagram. Corgis are generally beyond competition. What could be more charming than the combination of bottomless eyes, funny ears and a slightly ridiculous body?

The picture, traditionally made for the project as a repetition of Instagram white frame, depicts a scene of real peace. This is peaceful evening. The owner lays down on the sofa with a glass of wine.

The glass is already empty. The long-awaited relaxation has finally come...

2021, Oil on canvas 70 cm X 60 cm

Moment

IMPOSSIBLE

And now, it is already morning... You open your eyes...

A dog, your best friend appears at the door, sits down and looks at you with adoration... Harmony has been achieved... Harmony is not only emotional, but also picturesque. The picture composition is perfectly balanced. But the optical effect betrays the exclusivity of everything. The owner sees the dog through the glass. The funny muzzle of the dog decreased, and cute ears “grew” at the glass. It is not even so hard to realize that your beloved dog is looking at you, with the eternal morning question: “Well, what? Let’s go for a walk?” Now... five more minutes...

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About

Union of the Impossible The group of anonymous artists self-titled Union of the Impossible was established in 2020, amidst the raging pandemic and socio-political unrest. Its members are not fixed and their number keeps expanding. The artists’ staple is the traditional medium of painting on canvas. They poke fun at everyday life that has undergone a drastic change toward the bizarre. They come up with new means of protection, creating ‘visual shields’ against blandness, boredom, indifference, logic, and consistency.

resemble Polaroid shots. This is both a hint at exclusivity because Polaroids are one-of-a-kind and an act of opposition to the replicated Internet memes.

Not in our wildest dreams could we imagine that we would get to face a time of ‘great trials and tribulations’. The new normal (and, possibly, the irrevocable) has changed our lives, and we are slowly starting to grow used to it. Irony is an indispensable aid in situations such as this. This is how the Dada farce took root, first causing the viewer to go numb and begging the questions, ’What is this, exactly?’ and ‘Why this, precisely?’ and ‘What on earth?’ The outcome is the new generation of memes, occasionally dark and often straight to the point.

Memes have been dubbed ‘the virus of the mind’. When all is said and done, only something apt and incisive will not fail to grab one’s attention in the influx of information that is today’s life. In troubled times, people use different avenues to protect their sanity, with artists, predictably, resorting to art. Union of the Impossible was formed during the lockdown with the mission to create works that were uncharacteristic of each individual member, and the ‘new memes’ swiftly became one of their directions. At one point over a century ago, Dada sprang up as a response to WWI with its unjustified cruelties. In 2020, artists are bringing the Dada principles back to life, repurposing them for the new circumstances: the pandemic that has the entire world under siege.

Whilst Dadaists propelled anti-aesthetics, Union of the Impossible provokes and baffles the audience with its memes.

Most of these ‘new memes’ are presented in white frames that are part of each picture and 188

“The Union of the Impossible is an artistic association that arose in 2020 in the era of pandemic and sociopolitical shocks.” @union_of_impossible

DARK P H O T O G R A P H E R

M I C H A E L

A V I L A

C H R I S T M A N

@DARKHORSEPHOTOGRAPHYSA

ICON

D A V I D Identity is a concept that carries a multitude of meanings, depending on context. In line with the phrase, “know thyself”, David Bowie has to be the quintessential mascot. The whole world watched his lifelong metamorphosis from spaceman to urban suave fashion icon to wise occultist, ever-confounded with each incarnation. And yet, at the core he was unwavering in his identity—he was always David.

“I feel confident imposing change on myself. It's a lot more fun progressing than looking back.

That's why I need to throw curve balls.”

B O W I E It’s always agitated me when writers make claim that Bowie “lacked a fixed identity”. If you ever paid attention to the countless interviews and self disclosures he gave over the course of his life, he’s absolutely himself throughout. The baseline was a man, an artist, secure in his vision without the constraints of concern over what others felt about the art he created. His perceived “reinventions” were artistic projections, much in line with performance art, and he was always exceedingly clear about this.

In order to become the art which one creates to that extent, there must be a strong foundational self awareness, acceptance and understanding. David Bowie exhibited this every step of the way.

—David Bowie journalist & illustrator K. Day Gomez

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misinterpretation of how we outwardly present as being the landmark of who we are. This artistic genius knew the difference and honed it into incarnations we will never forget. The one in many.

“I'm looking for backing for an unauthorized auto-biography that I am writing. Hopefully, this will sell in such huge numbers that I will be able to sue myself for an extraordinary amount of money and finance the film version in which I will play everybody.”

On the subject of his final transformation at the age of 69, Dr. Frank Monaghan suggested of Bowie, “He seems to have seen identity as something constantly on the horizon of our perception, always becoming, never merely being — an arrival that always included its departure… in a wry reference back to Major Tom’s ‘Here am I, floating in a tin can, far above the world’ he portrays himself in ‘Lazarus’, eyes bound like a latter day Tiresias, floating inches above a hospital bed, singing ‘Look up here man, I’m in danger / I’ve got nothing left to lose. / I’m so high it makes my brain whirl.’ The prettiest star fallen to earth.

The title of that final song (and album) Blackstar also throws light on his conception of creativity and identity. As Wikipedia tells us: ‘A black star need not have an event horizon, and may or may not be a transitional phase between a collapsing star and a singularity.’”

[David Bowie: identity is creativity] Few have exhibited the level of self understanding and unshakable identity that Bowie did. He’s been deemed ’the man of many faces’—how can such a person be upheld as a pillar of self knowledge? The confusion comes from a general

192

—David Bowie

“I'm not a prophet or a stone aged man, just a mortal with potential of a superman. I'm living on.”

—David Bowie

PEPPER Magazine

12

I

cover artist.

December 2022

NATE SZARMACH '22

theme for a few reasons, not the least of which was the fact that his pieces generally portray the idea of who the subject is, or the representation of a human form, inviting us to decide what it is to be a human.

p. 194

dentity is the central focus of this, our seventh issue of PEPPER Magazine. Enter Austin fine artist, Nate Szarmach. There truly was none better suited to represent this soft

Artist’s statement : “Removing one's ability to see clearly is most important to my practice. When the image is clear It defines its own boundaries and tells you what it wants to be. When an image is out of focus, distorted, or gestural it becomes an invitation. The distorted image invites our memory, subconscious and imagination to make sense of the work and what it wants to be. If we accept the invitation, we become active participants in creating the meaning that lies within the artwork in front of us.”

About the artist : “I am a contemporary American Artist living and working from my studio in Austin, Texas. My wife and I moved to Austin from Charlottesville, Virginia in June 2020. I have exhibited my work all over the country I went to school at James Madison University where I earned a BFA in Architecture. Between my education and starting my full-time studio practice, I spent some time working as an interior designer focusing on contemporary residential design.

Since transitioning into a full-time practice, my career has taken me to some incredible places. I've had the privilege to exhibit my work all over the United states, to place art in collections worldwide and work with some incredible clients and designers. It is truly my joy to spend my life painting and bringing thought provoking artwork into this world.”

Of the use of religious iconography in his work, Nate explains, “Because the work leaves a lot to be desired (by covering, obscuring, blurring, etc.) it’s an opportunity for the viewer to project. I know its a lofty goal, but I would hope that my work can begin to catalyze the conversations and emotional work that is needed for us to unearth and destroy any of the harmful and untrue ideas that are embedded in us.”

@sinenkosi_msomii • @latitudes.online • @afrikanizm_art

CONCEPTUAL ARTIST & PHOTOGRAPHER

SINENKOSI MSOMI Mbabane, Mpolonjeni

directory.

directory.

Swaziland / Instagram @thembinkosiart7 / WhatsApp +26878314005 / thembinkosimabuza4@gm ail.com / journalist K. Day Gomez

Credits, Locations & Contact 6

Introduction by editor in

chief K. Day Gomez / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @creative.consultant.kday / email hello.pepper@outlook.com / web directory

8

msha.ke/kathleendaygomez / photo self portrait at Ruby City 2019 8

Ashlea & Brian Valdez I’d Be Kind Rewind @shopbekindrewind / journalist K. Day Gomez /

Open to Interpretation :

artist Nate Szarmach / Austin, Texas / Instagram @nateszarmachartst /

photographer Stacey Rae Olivares-Garcia

nateszarmach.com / journalist K. Day Gomez 17

52 All Decked Out : photographer Darryl E. Edwards / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram

Sight vs. Vision : artist

Vuwani Rambuda / Johannesburg, South Africa / Instagram @waniiheart /

@jandkphotography_1 / jandkphotography.org /

journalist K. Day Gomez 24

Models : Hollywood Hayes @_hollywood.hayes , Gary Bowie @cassiusgray68 , Curtis Lewis

Black Sheep : artist Vayne

Rebelle / Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania / Instagram @artbyvayne / journalist K. Day Gomez 31

Worthy : Nikhi Aum /

24

Bombay, India / nikhiaum@gmail.com / journalist K. Day Gomez 35

Making Faces :

Thembinkosi Mabuza / Mbabane,

ON THE COVER Nate Szarmach / Austin, Texas / Instagram @nateszarmachartst / Nate Szarmach.com

42 R + R Collective / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @rrcollectiveco / rrcollectiveco.com / 1010 S. Flores St. #123, San Antonio, TX 78204 / Co-owners Tyler Beakley & Kelsey Minard of Relyt. @relyt.co / Co-owners

35

@chitown_the_model Assistant : Shug Odom @shuga_themodel Location : Merkaba @merkabatx Modeling Agency : Meshaun Models @meshaunmodelsllc 61 Babes in Toyland : photographer Andrey Lukonikov / Torrevieja, Spain / Instagram @lukovnikov.photo /Creative director : Ekaterina Lukovnikova @ne_rodis_hudozhnikom

directory. @beckywittemarsh / images Becky of Armadillo Antiques Mall @armadilloantiquessa + model styling with business partner, Amanda Alarcón-Hunter of Minx and Onyx @minxandonyx

Models : Shannon, Michell, Sidney and Demi Vassallo— @shannonrossi_ , @michell_vassallo , @sidneyvassallo , @vassallodemi.22 67

Downtown Girls : 90 The High Life / Highlight with Joe A. Gomez III / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @jag.enterprises / photographer @creative.consultant.kday / all other images sourced online as mentioned

photographer Michael Avila Christman / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @darkhorsephotographysa / Models : Alissa Volkov @alissavolkov & Ty @ty_skydg 74

The New Amsterdam :

photographer Jean Tsimangas / Amsterdam, Netherlands / Instagram @juanistylephoto / Model :

52

Janet Michelle @Miss.JanetMichelle Location provider: privesauna.nl @privesauna.nl Location: The Harbour Spa @theharbourspa 79

The Utilitarian : Kevin

Robert Fernandez / Brooklyn, New York / Instagram @kevinrobertdesigns /

61

kevinrobertdesigns.com / photographer Rocco S. Christopher @roccosphotos web directory linktr.ee/RSCStudio / journalist K. Day Gomez 87

Zhuzhing the

Lagniappe Sustainable fashion & lifestyle expert Becky Witte-Marsh / San Antonio , Texas / Instagram

67

92 The Modern Gentleman : men’s grooming style expert Andrew Barraza / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @barrazatron / featuring Cowell’s Grooming Products, Australia @cowellsbeards + cowells.com.au / photographer K. Day Gomez 96 Robert Bjorn Taylor / Austin, Texas / Instagram @robertbjorntaylor / photojournalist Corey Davenport @coreylaynephoto 100 Then There Was Us : Sinenkosi Msomi / Mbabane, Mpolonjeni Swaziland, Africa / Instagram @sinenkosi_msomii / web portfolio latitudes.online/artists/sine nkosi_msomi

17

directory.

102

143 A Modern Mystic : Healing Practitioner Romy Nava / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @romynava247 / website romynava.com / photographers Charles Deluvio - Montreal, LinkedIn Sales Solutions, & Korney Violin - Barcelona, Spain @rekavision

Identity is Fluid :

Gabriel Richard Yepez / Quito, Ecuador / Instagram @gabriel.toapanta.58 / Model, creative director, photographer & retoucher @gabriel.toapanta.58 MUA : @by_emi.winkle Models : @m_antonela99 & @that_jhon

146 Positively Crystal : Motivational mindset coach Crystal Lopez-Crebs / San Antonio, Texas / web directory linktr.ee/crystalmagic777 / Instagram @crystalmagic777

Model & MUA : @tefissm Other photographers : @paolamzphoto & @sarec.artis 107

Transit :

photojournalist James Reade Venable / New York, New York / Instagram @venableshoots /

79

venableshoots.com 114

Humans of Northern

Caucasus : photographer Liudmila Evstratova / Kabardino-Balkarian Republic / Instagram @moremiha777 122

Humans of Lebanon &

Jordan : Eric Zhang / Lebanon & Jordan /

92

Instagram @eric.tt 131

157 Little Miss Sunshine : Dahlia Schwartz / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @schwartz_dahlia / photographers Marcus Photag, Drapala Studios, Saige Thomas, Quantum Lotus Torry Sledge & Baron Daparre / journalist K. Day Gomez

PASSPORT : Tales of

Monegros by Seigar / Aragon, Spain / Instagram @jseigar / seigar.wordpress.com 140

148 The Paper Psychologist : artist & illustrator Gustavo Otero / Madrid, Spain / Instagram @gustavo_otero_ilustrador / gustavootero.com

Fit to a T. : Nutritionist &

fitness expert Tina Sena / New Braunfels, Texas / website tinasena.org / Instagram @tinasenaofficial

96

166 The Day When I Waited for the Wind : Flash fiction author Jonathan Darren Garcia / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @jupiterjazz27 / photographer Courtney Chestnut 167

I am a Dead Poet :

directory. @lashden / photographers Ian Dooley - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Steve Johnson- Valparaiso, Indiana @artbystevej & Dollar Gill - Sydney, Australia @dollargill

author Njabulo Nkambule / Swaziland, South Africa / Instagram @dablue_kiddie / web directory https://linktr.ee/dabluekiddie / photographer Ahmed sadly - Egypt @ahmedadlyraslan 168

Pressed for Time :

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activist writer Adrija Jana / Kolkata, India / Instagram @adrija_jana2004 / Ujjwal Jajoo - Kolkata, India @ujjwal.jajoo , Nadim Kazi [Nuddle] @dog_bless_uh & Debashis RC Biswas - India @rcsalbum 172

Fiesta Youth : writer

Richie Combs / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram

102

@fiestayouth / web directory

187 Union of the Impossible : Moment / Instagram @union_of_impossible 190 ICON : David Bowie / journalist & illustrator K. Day Gomez / San Antonio, Texas / works cited : Dr. Frank Monaghan “David Bowie : Identity is Creativity” & direct quotes from David Bowie / with additional reference images sourced from public domain via Google.

linktr.ee/Fiesta.Youth / photographer Crystal Combs

ADVERTISERS —

@cclearphotography 176

Ms. Behavior : photo

based artist Nancy Grace Horton / Portsmouth, New Hampshire / Instagram @nancygracehorton / ngh@hortonphoto.com /

107

represented by Jessica Hagen Contemporary Gallery, Newport, RI. You can inquire or become a patron by

7 Realtor Vanessa Solis / Realtor #788710 / (210)8603496 / vsolis@kw.com / Servicing San Antonio, Texas & surrounding areas.

contacting : • Jessica Hagen Fine Art Gallery, Newport, RI • Robin Rice Gallery, NYC 183

Writing from the

Margin : author Tony Lashden / Belarus / Instagram

5 Conceptual Artist Seigar / Tenerife, Spain / Instagram @jseigar & @popsonality / website seigar.wordpress.com / ongoing photographic conceptual art series My Plastic People / author of the blog Popsonality popsonality.blogspot.com

114

41 Melanie Allison Art Gallery / artist Melanie Allison / Austin, Texas /

61

directory.

Braunfels, Texas / Instagram @tinasenaofficial / tinasena.org

Instagram @melanieallisongallery / web directory msha.ke/melanieallisongallery / ad design K. Day Gomez 50

The Blooming Social -

Social media marketing and management agency / San Antonio, Texas / founder Alyse

122

Deanda / Instagram @the.bloomingsocial / the.bloomingsocial1@gmail.co m 51

Corey Layne Photography /

Austin, Texas / Instagram @coreylaynephoto / web directory linktr.ee/Coreylaynephoto 78 Stylist Becky Witte-Marsh /

131

San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @beckywittemarsh / ad design & photographer K. Day Gomez @creative.consultant.kday

Gomez III / serving South Texas [available for national & international travel] / website novemcuisine.weebly.com / Instagram @novem.cuisine Stacey Rae Photography /

San Antonio / website cloverbudphotography.com / Instagram @staceyraeofficial 139

Clinician Itxia Lee Acevedo

of POUT MedSpa /San Antonio, Texas / poutmedspa.com / / Instagram @pout_itxialee / ad created by K. Day Gomez 142

Whole Heart Foods by Tina

Sena / Tina Sena Fitness / New

165 Return of the Matriarch / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @returnofthematriarch — Poet Laureate Andrea ‘Vocab’ Sanderson x artist, poet & educator Aminah Decé deliver raw power with their new collaboration, ROTM. 170 Njabulo Nkambule / Swaziland, South Africa / Instagram @dablue_kiddie / Web directory linktr.e/dabluekiddie

95 NOVEM Cuisine / chef Joe A.

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156 Neurodivergent child artist Aiden Gamez / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @i.am.Aiden.g / web directory msha.ke/artistaideng / You can purchase Aiden’s artwork direct from the official PEPPER Magazine online shop.

143

171 Fashion For Life / Philanthropic Organization / Instagram @fashionforlifesa / Fashionforlifesa.org / Facebook.com/fashionforlif esa / Team: Matthew Smith CEO/Founder Brianna Smith President Rachelle Smith - CFO Portia Matthews Director of Operations

directory.

NONPROFITS —

& Logistics Not pictured:

PEPPER Magazine proudly

Kim Miller Perry -

supports the following

Director of Talent

nonprofit organizations &

Acquisition

community efforts, and we

Brittany Smith - M.C. 174

strongly encourage our readers to do the same.

Dreaming of Haute : a

Fashion Show to Benefit

Please take a moment to

Fiesta Youth / San Antonio,

look them up, follow, learn,

Texas / Instagram

volunteer or donate.

@fiestayouth / dreamingofhaute.eventbrite.c

• Srow Zar Children

om / Location : The Bonhsm

organization, Afghanistan Instagram

Exchange / part of

@srowzarchildren

DREAMWEEK San Antonio 175

• Kearing Foundation for

X Level Inc. Creative &

Orphans living with HIV,

Talent Agency / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @xlevelinc / web directory

166

linktr.ee/xlevelinc

Uganda @kearing_foundation_ug • Bamunanika Children’s Home, Uganda

189

Darkhorse Photography

Instagram

/ Michael Avila Christman /

@bamunanika_charity_fou

Instagram

ndation

@darkhorsephotographysa & • We Care Wildlife

@heliosmediatx / media

Sanctuar, Lakehills, Texas

portfolio

Instagram

vimeo.com/heliosmediatx 198

Photographer &

@wecarewildlifesanctuary

167

Conceptual Artist Sinenkosi

• Alora Farm nonprofit for Neurodivergent teens &

Msomi / Mbabane,

adults on the Autism

Mpolonjeni - Swaziland, Africa

spectrum, Lakehills, Texas

/ web portfolio

Instagram @alora_farm

latitudes.online/artists/sinenk osi_msomi /

• Geofrey Foundation for

@sinenkosi_msomii

Kids nonprofit organization, Uganda instagram @hope_up_for_kids

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114

172

176

183 Since our public launch in May of 2022, we’ve also proudly supported through GoFundMe (and other means): The MAC • Literacy • Ukrainian San Antonio • Autism Advocacy • Uvalde Families post tragedy…

And more; and this is only the beginning.

190

SUPPORT THE ARTS • FAIR WAGES FOR CREATIVES • SHOP SMALL BUSINESS • CURATE SUSTAINABLE ETHICALLY SOURCED FASHION • RECYCLE • BE KIND • REPEAT

directory.

PEPPER STAFF K. DAY GOMEZ CEO & EDITOR IN CHIEF Hello, my name is Kathleen. I am a neurodivegent mother, wife and wearer of many hats.

I’m an internationally published artist, author, creative consultant and intuitive life coach. I also sit on the Advisory Board of the Alora Farm nonprofit for adult autists.

I’ve been a photojournalist, art illustrator and content writer for various publications and blogs for over two decades. I formerly held a modeling career for over 17 years that led to acting and directing, which I still may pursue in the future.

I always seek to be of the most help to our community and global humanitarian issues any way I can. It was with this intention that I founded PEPPER Magazine.

As a creative, and member of the LGBTQ community, it is also my intent that the publication be inclusive, diverse and support marginalized communities and those with varied abilities / disabilities by creating a safe space for all to be heard. Thank you for taking the time to learn about our mission. I anticipate great things for the future.

JOE A. GOMEZ III CFO & MARKETING DIRECTOR An all-American Texas boy born and raised in

San Antonio, Joe A. Gomez III has been a strong community leader, a humanitarian and a true lover of life. A former city councilman having served on the board of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce for several years, he's also the founder of JAG Enterprises with over 23 years of management experience. He is now PEPPER Magazine's CFO & Key Lifestyle Contributor.

A chef to rival most, despite not having been classically trained, Joe's culinary expertise is impeccable. Enough so that over time he began to develop the ground work for what is now called NOVEM Cuisine. Since the founding of NOVEM, chef Joe's recipes have become more diverse and in turn, the public attention has grown.

This has led to multiple international publications, to include London and Manchester, UK. And if you have the luck of tasting his food you'll understand why. There is no detail that escapes him, and the care he puts into the preparation and plating of every meal is nothing shy of five-star dining.

The pièce de résistance is having him prepare it right from the comfort of the best restaurant in town; your own home.

ANGELA MICHELLE EMPOWERMENT MAVEN & INTIMACY ALCHEMIST Angela Michelle is a sexologist from The Sexology Institute. She specializes as an intimacy & body image coach and is also an

staff. empowerment photographer. Her portfolio is expansive covering almost two decades. As an inclusive yoga instructor, she also provides modified yoga lessons for those who need it.

Angela is a speaker, educator, mentor and advocate who raises awareness on a variety of topics she is passionate about.

known as: Artist Foundation of San Antonio).

In May of 2020 she was awarded Best Live Entertainment/Band Musician of the Year by the SEA Awards.

We are honored to have her unique and empowering insight on the PEPPER Magazine board of staff contributors.

TINA SENA

ANDREA ‘ VOCAB’ SANDERSON POET LAUREATE Poet Laureate 20202023, performs as “Vocab” in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas. ”Watching her perform, the word “hero” comes to mind. And not “hero” for the sake of just skill, but for her work in her community: Sanderson teaches poetry workshops, mentors, builds up and encourages artists to pursue their art, and gives them platforms to showcase their talent.

Sanderson’s interest in other people’s art and artistic development became a passion of hers, and she started curating her own shows and creating platforms for other artists to hone their craft by hosting open mics.”

-The San Antonio Current, Jan. 16, 2018 She received awards, Performer of the Year, Influencer of the Year, from Project Forward, and Dream Voice, from the Dream Week Commission. Sanderson is the winner of the 2019 People’s Choice Award, awarded by Luminaria Artist Foundation (formerly

NUTRITIONIST & FITNESS EXPERT Hi, my name is Tina Sena and it has been my passion to motivate, inspire and encourage others to achieve health and wellness physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

For 24 years now I have been doing personal training, nutrition consulting, kids programs, developing a protein line of sweet treats and running my own businesses. I am a spouse and also a real estate business partner with my husband Michael, and we have a beautiful 13 year old daughter named Mia. It is my desire to build a community where we can share with others all the knowledge we have accumulated over the years to help create total health and wellness in their lives.

I​ was an only child who grew up in a home with a mentally ill father and a mother who, although very strong, was also riddled with fear and anxiety while working all the time to provide for our family. We had very little so I was terribly ridiculed in school. ​ ​I saw my first therapist at the age of 10. My father passed away at 44 and as a very independent 20 year old I was on a mission to help others to not suffer in all the ways myself and my family did physically, mentally and emotionally.

staff.

Ibecame a personal trainer about 24 years ago while I was working as a model and living a completely unhealthy lifestyle. I wanted so much to have lean, sexy muscles which was a no no back then in that world.

So I hired my first personal trainer who taught me how to lift weights and eat properly. I never felt better! My body, mind and health completely changed and off I went. I began training for triathlons and fitness competitions with some of the best trainers and decided that was it - I wanted to do for others what they had all done for me.

So off to work I went. I am now an upscale fitness facility owner, protein treats line developer and I organize a nonprofit program changing the course for kids!

I believe that we all have the power within us to get past the pain we endure in life. We just need the proper guidance and resources to get us there!

It means everything to me to help my community to be encouraged and feel love and support through what might be their most challenging journey.....working on ourselves!!!”

ROBERT DEAN JOURNALIST & AUTHOR [In his own words...]

Robert Dean is a journalist, raconteur, and ‘enlightened dumbass’.

His work has been featured in places like MIC, Eater, Fatherly, Yahoo, Austin AmericanStatesman, Consequence of Sound, Ozy, USA Today, to name a few. He’s appeared on CNN and NPR. He also serves as features writer for Hussy Magazine and is editor in chief for Big Laugh Comedy, Texas’ biggest comedy production company. He lives in Austin and loves ice cream and koalas.

CRYSTAL LOPEZ-CREBS MOTIVATIONAL MINDSET COACH Crystal Lopez-Crebs received her degree in Fashion Design & Marketing from The International Academy of Design & Technology in Tampa, FL. She also interned with designer Tracy Reese in New York learning the ropes of New York Fashion Week (NYFW).

She owned an entertainment company in Tampa where she created costumes, did makeup, and stylized looks for her team.

After moving to Texas, she mastered her crafts in the makeup industry working for MAC Cosmetics. She has also done makeup for LA & San Antonio Fashion Week, worked on film sets as both talent and wardrobe & production design, and developed her fashion production skills at Neiman Marcus.

Crystal is now the talent coordinator for X Level Inc, a creative agency in San Antonio, TX, where she helps scout and develop talent. She is also the founder of the nonprofit, Fashionable Adoptions, that promotes animal adoption through fun fashion events, most notably her fashion shows that showcase adoptable animals walking the runway.

She’s helped many people (and animals) improve their lives with her health & wellness business alongside her husband, especially through her story overcoming a health challenge. She loves to talk about vision and mindset to her audience to empower them to live a bigger life. Her unique style and excitement for living a healthy life can be felt as she shares her passions on social media

staff. and in person. Crystal brings her bright light & energy to inspire everyone to live an abundantly beautiful & healthy life from the inside out.

BECKY WITTEMARSH SUSTAINABLE FASHION & LIFESTYLE EXPERT Becky found her passion for sustainable fashion and home furnishings at an early age when being sustainable was a necessity.

A lifetime of creating her own personal style through sustainable sources, got the attention of those around her.

Today her innovative creations using vintage, thrift and self-made items will inspire a new way to look at dressing and styling your home.

Becky will help you turn style sustainability from an inconvenience into an ADVENTURE!​

NJABULO NKAMBULE AUTHOR & POET Njabulo Nkambule also known as Njabulo N. is a writer, a poet hailing from the Kingdom of Swaziland.

“I'm also an author of the soon to be

published anthology, DEEP-ROOTEDWORDS which will include mainly my written poems. I’m a devoted,multipassionate, hardworking poet with a keen eye for detail and an insatiable interest in the use of the written word.

I'm one person who is so passionate about poetry having so many written poems under my name (not yet published). My writings (poems) include quite a number of poetic forms including rhymed poetry, narrative poetry, pastoral poetry, elegies poetry, limerick poetry, lyric and soliloquy poetry.”

PEPPER is enriched by the presence and liter contributions of this gifted writer and we are excited to see how he helps to shape the overall landscape of our publication over time.

NORMAN RENE AVILA ART HISTORIAN • SAN ANTONIO, TX Artist, painter, musician and writer, Norman Rene Avila wears many hats. Also a former teacher, he has taken on the staff position as our local art and cultural historian. One of the founding members of the SAMOMA nonprofit [San Antonio Museum of Modern Art], as influenced and aided by New York’s MOMA, he is great asset to PEPPER Magazine.

Norman has curated an extensive collection of memorabilia, artworks, film footage and photographs which document the SA art

staff. scene from the late 1960’s forward. Over time, we will be sharing these archives which range from obscure to iconic. We are grateful to have Norman as part of our team.

Currently, he is engaged in the development process as a key interview subject for our first documentary about the history of SAMOMA. In conjunction with our cinematographer Michael Avila Christman and editor in chief who is key interviewer for the independent filming project, Norman is providing priceless facts and contacts for the film’s creation.

MICHAEL AVILA CHRISTMAN DIRECTOR & CINEMATOGRAPHER Founder of Darkhorse Photography, as well as his media company Helios, San Antonio native creative professional Michael

Avila Christman is a fixture here.

His projects range from short film to documentary to commercials to editorial fashion photography. He’s worked with well known models, designers, makeup artists, musicians, local celebrities and other professionals throughout his expansive career.

Now, Michael is taking his passion for journalism and theatrical storytelling to new heights by collaborating with PEPPER Magazine and taking on a staff contributor role. He will be responsible for the majority of commercial video content for the

publication through his tenure to come.

STACEY RAE OLIVARESGARCIA PHOTOJOURNALIST Stacey is a San Antonio native, growing up down

the road from Karam's Mexican Restaurant and The Malt House.

While residing in Austin, Stacey began to grow her passion for photojournalism by capturing the heart of the person behind the lens. She wanted to bring this fresh outlook with her to San Antonio. Returning to her hometown allowed her to focus on the art in a person's story.

Stacey's work has been featured in several magazines such as; Entertainment Tonight Online, Voyage Houston, and S.A. Scene Magazine. She has captured photos for multiple businesses across various industries including Luzianne Tea and August Ink. ​ er creative eye and ability to capture her H subjects’ stories with grace and dignity makes Olivares-Garcia the perfect addition to the PEPPER team.

MELANIE ALLISON NETWORKING LIAISON One day, I decided to take life by the (long)horns and got back to my roots by modeling

staff. and painting again. I wanted to break the fashion industry standards and stigmas by creating a need for a petite and classic model. I started working with local photographers in the Austin area, building a new portfolio. Soon I discovered independent magazines and learned how to submit my work. I was finally published and on the cover of a magazine for the first time in October 2016. Soon after that, I was signed with TL Modeling Agency in Houston, Texas.

But things don’t always go as planned. After enduring occasional rejection from magazine editors, I founded my own art & fashion magazine called Bevie in November 2016. My mission with Bevie was to showcase emerging, local and international talent such as artists, models, photographers, designers, and other creatives.

By making a sophisticated publication more approachable, I was able to help my fellow colleagues get established or further along in their career. After two years of publishing my bimonthly mag, I decided to go back to work full-time and the last issue was released in December 2018. Bevie still has quite the following today!

Today, I am now focused on creating mixed media art, establishing my networking event, turned group called Girl Flock Party, and becoming a part of the local artist community. It has been an amazing journey and I am grateful for every experience along the way!”

Melanie is a great asset to the PEPPER team and provides valuable guidance, lead finding and creative / marketing advice from her home base in the Georgetown / Austin area.

ROMY NAVA HEALING PRACTITIONER Romy Nava has been actively developing his gift as a healer since the beginning of 2013.

As a Sound Healing and Reiki practitioner, he has formulated a signature holistic protocol.

His clients are comforted and claim to experience a relaxed calming sensation for days following each session he provides.

Also a media tech and podcast host, Romy aims to educate and hold space for enlightened thought by way of his platform.

He establishes a dialogue that is relatable with the intention of getting to the core of the human psyche, spirit and mind-body connection. He examines the choices we make vs. practical and functional resolution.

All of this expertise and experience makes him an incredible asset to PEPPER Magazine. Say hello to Romy and open yourself up to learning something new… maybe even about yourself.

ANDREW BARRAZA MEN’S GROOMING STYLE CONSULTANT Andrew is a graphic novel artist & comic book enthusiast who also happens to be a mustache connoisseur.

“Men are always just kinda left out when it comes to

staff. grooming topics. I had to learn all my tricks on the street. I’m and ambassador for a couple of stache grooming brands. It’s been a blast growing it, helping others with tips and making new friends.

I still draw when I have the chance. Love comics and art.”

He is here to lend PEPPER Magazine his expertise in mens grooming, the subcultural aspect that goes along with this niche and other great products, tips and resources for men.

“It’s really funny, without knowing when I got into it, there’s a giant mustache community out there of dudes that are happy to encourage, give tips, even help out with charities and events. One of the companies that I ambassador for donates part of every sale to first responders. Turns out there’s a lot of firemen that make and sell mustache wax also.

And seeing people randomly, I ALWAYS get compliments from people. And I’m happy they think it’s cool and get a kick outta it.

Even gotten some free beers in the bars.

That’s worth it right there alone.”

SINENKOSI MSOMI PHOTOJOURNALIST & CONCEPTUAL ARTIST Sinenkosi Msomi is an exceptional photographer born in Eswatini and currently residing in Mbabane, Mpolonjeni.

His work consists of staged and conceptual photography. The themes contained in his

work include addressing mental health issues, the importance of self-expressions and exploring the significance of one's childhood memories.

His upbringing plays a major role in how his work eventually plays out. He recollects the different sides of growing up in an African extended family and how that helped shape him. His pictures help him talk about things that he sometimes finds no words to fully express.

Msomi is an incredible asset to PEPPER Magazine and will continue to work remotely, bringing impactful documentary through the personal and unique storytelling of his imagery.

ALYSE DEANDA NETWORKING LIAISON & SPECIALIST Alyse Deanda is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Blooming Social, a social media marketing and management agency.

She assists small businesses as they navigate the complex world of Digital Marketing for the first time. She has also assisted multi-billion dollar businesses in accomplishing their marketing goals.

In 2022, she founded Wild Bloom Vintage, a women’s fashion e-boutique that is focused on sourcing sustainable women’s fashion and nicknacks. Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Alyse now resides in San Antonio, Texas. She is a proud alumna of St. Mary's University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications. She is a model and

staff. actress with representation in San Antonio, TX, Shreveport, LA and NYC, NY. Alyse has worked in the fashion industry both behind the scenes as well as in the spotlight for almost a decade. In addition, she is proud to serve on the Board of Directors of FerrariKid, a nonprofit organization that is focused on bringing joy to children battling cancer and chronic illness.

As a networking liaison for PEPPER Magazine, Alyse will be pulling from her wealth of experience and knowledge to guide networking, gather leads and connect nonprofits and businesses with our publishing firm.

COREY DAVENPORT

into something that I have excitedly worked on for the last 13+ years. Whether it be going to local venues, traveling for festivals, or touring with bands on and off over the years. My opportunity to capture the raw emotion of the artists is an experience that will never cease to fill me with joy.

With more doors opening, I plan to continue learning about, and expanding my craft, while striving for more new experiences throughout my ever growing life as a photographer.”

Corey will be covering various leads and events for PEPPER in Austin and surrounding areas. He’s also working on showcasing some intense and striking documentary imagery from his archives over time.

CHARITY STEWART

PHOTOJOURNALIST A Texas native, with a curiosity of the human experience.

“Having always been fascinated by the psychology / sociology of people, while also lacking the ability to focus my interests, and thoughts into words, I knew at a young age that photography was my outlet to show the world what I see. With inspiration from some of the classic greats like Elliot Erwitt, Gary Winogrand, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Weegee, my passion for street photography/photojournalism will continue to be the driving force behind what I do with a camera.

Living in Austin, TX for the majority of my life, has also given me the best environment to mix my love of music, and photography

STYLE CONSULTANT “My name is Charity Stewart. I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I am a very family oriented person I grew up with two sisters and a brother. In high school is where I met my now husband, we have been together since 2015 and have been married since 2021. I went to Sam Houston State University to run track and I majored in business. I moved to San Antonio in 2021.

I am a licensed disability job coach. One of my passions is helping people and being certified allowed me the opportunity to help people with disabilities from the ages of 17-23 find a job and be equipped for the workforce.

Currently I work as a barista at Press Coffee

staff. and also at Mint Vintage. My husband and I are in the process of launching our brand called Team Faithful. We started this because we want to encourage young couples to stay committed and honor each other despite what the culture is saying today. We believe that life is about community and helping others which makes me so happy to be a part of PEPPER Magazine where helping people is in our DNA. Growing up, I have always had a passion for fashion. I remember getting up on Saturdays to put outfits together and giving my family a fashion show in the living room. Now as an adult I am able to make a fashion show for myself every day and also for PEPPER Magazine.”

Charity will be sharing her favorite fashion and beauty tips, hacks and trends (old and new) as well as the brands and entrepreneurs she recommends in her own column.

old (when I was published in an international magazine) and picked up photography over a decade ago, always pushing myself and my equipment as far as I could, developing my style to show people how vibrant, beautiful, and varied the world is. I have sold prints of my photography, as well as being published in periodicals.

Pepper will be the first publication where I will be contributing regularly as I've spent several years focusing on horse training and more recently, being a single mom to a very bright and busy toddler. I am so excited to be part of Pepper, and I hope we'll be seeing each other for a long time to come!"

JONATHAN DARREN GARCIA FLASH FICTION WRITER

SEFRA SCHWAB PHOTOJOURNALIST “I'm Sefra, and while I have a lot of interests that I feel deeply about, the most important things to me are my faith, my daughter, and my deep-seated love for animals and the people who love them (especially horses). As a recently diagnosed autistic following several years of misdiagnoses, I have an intense interest in philosophy and all the different ways that humans are.

I have been writing - mostly poetry, and short stories - since I was about 10 years

Jonathan Darren Garcia is a San Antonio based writer. He was a featured poet in That Gray Zine: San Antonio's Collective Carefest. He has been published in multiple literary magazines including Crepe & Penn (Now known as C&P Quarterly), Scum Gentry Alternative Arts, Beyond The Veil, From Whisper To Roars, Royal Rose, etc. Notable works include "You Both Need To Leave Right now!", "The Energy Of A Stone" and "Samson".

He dreams of a story worth telling. On his off time he enjoys a good cup of coffee from one of the many local spots in San Antonio. With his compelling handle on the flash fiction genre, Jonathan will maintain a gripping monthly column in PEPPER Magazine.

staff.

SEIGAR PHOTOJOURNALIST & CONCEPTUAL ARTIST Seigar is a passionate travel, street, socialdocumentary, conceptual, and pop visual artist based in Tenerife, Spain. He feels obsessed with the pop culture that he shows in his works. He has explored photography, video art, writing, and collage. He writes for some media. His main inspirations are traveling and people.

Seigar’s aim as an artist is to tell tales with his camera, creating a continuous storyline from his trips and encounters. He is a philologist and works as a secondary school teacher. He is a self-taught visual artist, though he has done a two years course in advanced photography and one in cinema and television.

He has participated in several international exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events. His works have been featured in numerous publications worldwide. His latest interests are documenting identity and spreading the message of the Latin phrase: Carpe Diem. Recently, he received the Rafael Ramos García International Photography Award. He shares art and culture in his blog: Pop Sonality.

Currently, Seigar is our travel columnist, heading out the section with his “Tales of” series. We look forward to learning about the world around us through his skillful and artful lens.

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