L'Amour Diversity Magazine Iss 6 June 2016

ISSUE 6, JUNE 2016

FRANKX LEFAVRE

Frankx’s battle with depression is expressed through his art at LEA sim, and interpreted in two captivating stories by Sita Writer and Ava Jhamin (Page 70)

Publisher/Editor’s Note

“There is beauty in truth, even if it’s painful. Those who lie, twist life so that it looks tasty to the lazy, brilliant to the ignorant, and powerful to the weak. But lies only strengthen those you lie about. They don’t teach anything, help anything, fix anything or cure anything. Nor do they develop one’s character, one’s mind, one’s heart or one’s soul.” —José N. Harris

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have the huevos to confront me in person, and we will leave it at that.

L’Amour has been very busy in the last few months. A lot of changes have happened and now I’m trying to find just the right people to add to L’Amour University of Fashion for both a director and teachers. It’s been hard to fill the shoes of Hezabel and Janet (giggles).

It’s very fascinating to me that right when I need something BAM...it’s there. The above is the reflection of what has been going on in my life for the last month or so. What it says above, says it all. Thank you José for showing me at just the right moment.

L’Amour also has a lot on the production side coming up. We won’t give it away so make sure if you’re not in the L’Amour Productions group that you get your cute selves in there so you don’t miss a thing.

If you have an issue with me, or any of L’Amour’s businesses for that matter,

I hope that all of the loyal readers of L’Amour Diversity enjoyed the April

Issue 6, June 2016 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

edition. It was packed with some amazing stories and also a lot of fun carefree ones.

In this June issue look for the special Summer Feature showcasing the History of the Bikini Babe and a Beachwear pictorial with Diversity Magazine models.

An amazing new story with Frankx LeFavre which dives into a story with a twist about depression and the creative way he dealt with it.

Check out the Erotic & Nude Modeling, a story you’ll want to delve into.

Also I got to sit down with an incredible and dear friend Adonis Lubomir of SWANK. I would like to dedicate the June issue to my dad Xavier Thiebaud, the best dad in the whole world, and to Delia his mother that he just lost on May 21, 2016. Rest in Peace sweet Delia.

Write On!!!!!!

n i m a h J a Av Ava Jhamin CEO Publisher/Editor L’Amour Diversity Magazine

ISSUE 6, JUNE 2016 STAFF Ava Jhamin Publisher/Editor Jena Adder Creative Director WRITERS Ahn Avion Ava Jhamin Jena Adder Rhiannon Colclough Sarahelisebeth Brenham Sita Writer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bai Nightfire Ellie Shepard (elettriko) Mika Ghostraven PHOTOGRAPHERS Alex Avion OnlyGenesis Rhiannon Colclough Trinity Aironaut ON THE COVER Frankx LeFavre’s art at LEA sim.

Photo by Jena Adder The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. ©2016 L’Amour Productions. All rights reserved.

Second Life® is a registered trademark of Linden Research, Inc.

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Contents

14 Spotlight - SWANK Monthly Fashion Event

SWANK CEO & Founder Adonis Lubomir talks

about his popular monthly fashion event in an interview with Ava Jhamin.

26 Summer Feature - Beach

The History of Bikini Babe highlights

some of the well-known bikinis from 4th century to today.

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Beach Proud – A pictorial celebrating beachwear and heritage.

50 Designers - MadPea Productions Read about what is to come at MadPea,

a company that is more than just creators of virtual games. They are also quite active in education and philanthropy.

60 Community - INVICTUS Come to the USA A summary of the Invictus Games, which

started in 2014 by Prince Harry and took place in Orlando, Florida this year.

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Strawberry Singh: Grace and Class in the Face of Prejudice and Hate.

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70 Arts & Entertainment - Frankx LeFavre Depression expressed through art at LEA.

Frankx’s art is interpreted in two stories

by Sita Writer and Ava Jhamin.

72 Riding the Waves of Depression 76 Depression Through the Eyes of a friend an Artist.

82 The Intoxicating Voice of Toxic Darkmatter.

92 Fashion - L’Amour Graduation Show

Models, Producers, Graduates – When It’s

98 102 108

Not As Simple As “Just Showing Up”.

April and May Pazzo Style Challenge Winners.

Nude & Erotic Modeling by Ellie Shepard.

‘Mesh Assets’ Winners - Model’s Workshop Group Photo Styling Challenge.

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Celestial Beauty – Asmita Duranjaya’s Futuristic Art Installations.

116 Role Play - Atoll Tel Ma’at - The Isle of Balance

Mika Ghostraven tells the story of the newly

reclaimed and renamed Atoll Tel Ma’at, a role play sim with an interesting past and ‘bright’ future’.

128 Social - “GET IT OUT”

Diversity Magazine readers’ letters are answered L’Amour Diversity Magazine | Issue 6, June 2016

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Spotlight

Get Your SWANK On

By Ava Jhamin

There was some buzz all over the grid. A new place where all can shop until they dropped. The new venue was called SWANK and the buzz was the biggest on the grid.

That expectation has been met, and I sat down with Adonis Lubomir, brain child behind the very popular SWANK fashion event.

Ava: Hi Adonis and thank you for taking time out of your crazy busy schedule to talk to me. The question asked the most by me: How did you come to Second Life?

Adonis: I would visit a friend in RL,that at the time was a long time user of SL and I asked a few

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questions one day. I found that it sounded interesting and I was made an offer I couldn’t refuse by being told they can teach me and show me around and help me get started on my SL journey, but wouldn’t you know it about a month into SL, my friend ended up leaving for some time and leaving me to sort things out as a true “Newbie”. I think I’ve made my own way fairly well :) Ava: I would say that you have Adonis.

What did you do in Second Life before you opened the doors to SWANK?

Adonis Lubomir is CEO & Founder of SWANK – a monthly fashion event bringing together a select group of designers with themed releases that is exclusive to the event.

Adonis: The usual. I suppose explore SL, took modeling classes, did some modeling work and became a bit of a social butterfly along the way. I love some of the friends and relationships I have been lucky enough to know and have. I just needed to find my place in SL. Ava: Not always an easy thing, but you’re a very likable man Adonis.

Can you tell the readers of L’Amour Diversity how SWANK came about and what your vision for it was?

Adonis: I love fashion, but didn’t want to design. I enjoyed modeling, but it had its limits in

areas that I still wanted to be a part of. Shopping is always such a hassle and not everything is on MP [Marketplace].

Events I did visit seemed lagging and although pretty, still felt like walking through a maze. I have not been to many events, but I had a good idea of what I wanted out of an event and what I expected.

I asked around and got opinions of others from a customer standpoint, as well as the opinions of designers.

I made notes and took it all into consideration as I started and continue to make changes based on continuous research,suggestions and recommendations for both the Continued next page...

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customer and designer experience, but with all changes and modifications I make sure it’s something that benefits both and also benefits the event.

I get to work with designers, models, bloggers, customers as well as third party media partners. I truly enjoy the combination of talent that I get to work with on a daily basis and the great changes and growth we offer to upcoming new creators and knowing what a huge role we play in their journey of growth and brand recognition. It’s like watching kids grow.

Ava: Can you tell me how and why you chose the designers that you did?

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Adonis: We send a formal and informal invitations to come have a look at our build, go over marketing strategies to market that designer, and the items they place in our event. Unfortunately, we cannot accept all designers.

We look for quality, design concept and price. At Swank, we look at brand new designers that may not be established yet in brand and experience, but we consider if they have a great quality product at an affordable price, that may appeal to our customers.

We all have to start someplace. It’s exciting to give these great new designers an outlet to start.

It’s also nice to know that SWANK was an important part of exposing some upcoming great designers. I love working with all of our designers on all levels.

Ava: Is there a charge to join the SWANK group?

Adonis: No. We have to charge to join the public group. Although recently we created a VIP group for frequent shoppers that allow for early access, Special set VIP gifts, VIP events as well as each round we randomly pick VIP winners that win actual Lindens and gift cards.

Ava: That’s a nice added incentive.

You have cute themes to each monthly event. Where did that come from?

Adonis: We like to keep the event fun and trending. Themes just allow us to put a fun spin on each round and keeps us on our toes with keeping the themes in line with what’s also trending.

Ava: Do you have event models? Also tell me a bit about the blogger program for SWANK? Adonis: We do have event models on staff that model designers’ garments to the side of a designer’s booth.

Continued next page...

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We Currently have just shy of about 90 bloggers. We have two blog managers that manage all of the blogs as well as hold monthly Blogger of the Month contests.

We are just about to launch Designer/ Blogger Press meeting, events where the bloggers will be able to interview designers about their brand, inspiration and new collection! The bloggers being SL journalists, those meetings give the designers another edge and the opportunity to promote their work and products to a large audience and to see more than just a picture in SWANK blogs.

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Ava: Also can you tell the readers a little bit about your fashion show events?

Adonis: We do offer Monthly Fashion shows usually through AIM, but like for May it was through Penumbra’s Fashion week with two shows dedicated for Swank Exclusives.

We offer these shows free for our designers. We also offer fashion spreads in magazines free for our designers as well.

Between the models, fashion shows, and magazines we truly offer so much

more than just another event booth to sell your items out of.

build Swank. It shows in everyone’s dedication, effort and success.

Ava: Can you tell me a little bit about your team at SWANK?

Ava: Tell me what are the ups of downs of owning a business in SL?

Adonis: We are all like a family! We are like an extension of each other and we work as a team. From customers to designers to staff.

Adonis: It’s the experience and wonderful people you get to meet and get to work with so much talent. It’s very refreshing and such a rewarding feeling when designers, customers and staff all express how much they love the event and the things we do and how we do it.

We speak freely and speak our minds and listen. Some days we argue; some days we give thanks and sympathies, but no matter what happens at the end of the day we all come together for a common purpose, to grow and

SL work is just like RL work in the sense that when I am in SL it’s all work with Continued next page...

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long days and so much dedication that goes into it, but at the end of the day everyone’s expression, effort and appreciation make it so rewarding.

Ava: Do you have any weird stories about being in this industry that you can share with our readers Adonis?

Adonis: Weird? Ha Ha! This is SL if you haven’t noticed. When are things not weird in here and I’m sure we all have those stories and part of it just

to bring in those better products and finer lines of fashion that, although are more expensive, are still offered at Swank at an exceptional value. We really don’t want to limit the quality or level of products offered at swank.

We truly want to a bit of everything for everyone :) We strive to make sure we are never and never will be just another sales event in SL. Ava: I find your way of doing things spot on Adonis, and I wish you and

“

I truly enjoy the combination of talent that I get to work with on a daily basis and the great changes and growth we offer to upcoming new creators.

”

comes with exploring and growing in SL in general. I mean look around. We have vampires, fairies, hopping about bunnies, to super heroes that you find walking around and others flying around while shopping our event.

Ava: (Giggles) So true it’s all just a weird wonderful world isn’t it? Anything else you would like our readers to know that I didn’t ask you today?

Adonis: Well starting for JUNE we have lifted our price limits from 300L or less to no limits. At 300L or less it was hard

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your team at SWANK nothing but the best for all your endeavors. I thank you for sitting down with me and sharing your story for the L’Amour Diversity readers. n

Location & Links: SWANK Monthly Fashion Event

Nouvelle Aube delivers exciting designs and outf its for both ladies and gents. The clothes combine smart and classy with a hint of sexy.

Visit the store for all of the newest releases.

107.192.22

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Summer Feature

History of the Bikini Babe

By Ava Jhamin Photos by Jena Adder With summer fast approaching I thought it would be fun to have a history of the bikini as a pictorial. There has been a lot of changes with the bikini from the 4th Century to present.

It’s odd to think back when the bikini first came to fruition and what people said in the 50’s, “Oh the scandal of it all”, but in reality women in 4th century Roman days were already wearing bandeau tops with little briefs into the roman baths.

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Move forward to an era where two Frenchmen designed the two piece in the summer of 1946. Bombshells such as Ava Gardner and Brigitte Bardot were iconic in the 1940’s and 50’s.

Again few people in history did it so well that even in 2016 you can take one look and know such Iconic names as Ursula Andress in Dr. No in 1964.

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Where you were in the world depicted what you wore. In California for example bikinis and long board shorts with short sassy hair made you the “it girl”. Fast forward to 2000 and you have amazing examples of the bikini, with the Bond girl revised, such as Halle Berry in Die Another Day in 2002 with her unforgettable orange bikini and white belt.

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Throughout history you had the top and bottom of the bikini, but what changed over the years is the bottom may be lower or higher on the hips, the top criss crossing the body etc.

Throughout the history of the bikini, one thing is clear...

The bikini is here to stay!

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Think of u Wedding & P

(107.92

us for your Party needs

2.22)

United Kingdom Model Ava Jhamin

Summer Feature

Beach Proud

Summer is a time to celebrate many things: the warm weather, the longer days, our beach body and our heritage. L’Amour Diversity Magazine is proud to feature the official Diversity models in this ‘Beach Proud’ pictorial as they showcase their adopted or natural heritage, photographed by our very own Fashion Editor and Photographer Trinity Aironaut.

Bai Nigtfire Cyberdawg Foxclaw Jena Adder Sita Writer

Trinity Aironaut VanessaDelRio Underwood Vichonette Constantine

We extend a warm welcome to the models and thank them for their hard work to make each fashion editorial come to life. A special thank you to Trinity whose dedication and love for photography show in each pictorial she does for L’Amour Diversity Magazine. We are blessed to have them all aboard. WAY TO GO TEAM!!!

—Ava Jhamin

America Model Trinity Aironaut

America

Model VanessaDelRio Underwood

Asia

Model Bai Nigtfire

Canada Model Jena Adder

America

Model Vichonette Constantine

Designers

There’s More To This Company Than Just Games!

MadPea – Education & Philanthropy

By Rhiannon Colclough As anyone can attest that has ever played a MadPea game, their fame as creators of fiendishly difficult but fun games is well earned and deserved.

However, there is much behind this company than just crafting amazingly layered and engrossing games.

MadPea has, quietly and somewhat behind the scenes, also been involved in other endeavors.

Kess Crystal, who is the PR head for MadPea, explained some of what MadPea does and is planning to do in a presentation given in-world, and answered some questions after the presentation. It might surprise some, but MadPea is much more than the sum of its games.

The first area that MadPea has diversified into is education. This might not surprise some people, as the MadPea games have always had a much more cerebral approach to

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designing their games. However, MadPea goes even further than its games to create immersive environments in which people can participate, making education more “hands­-on” and therefore more imprinted into the minds of participants.

Some of the educational approaches MadPea has used in various endeavors are Reaction ­Interactive Chemistry 101 game, where students could participate and see reactions as if they were doing the experiments in RL. MadPea created this game for Sigma-Aldrich.

They’ve also created Notes from the Voyage, an educational and fun game about the travels of Charles Darwin.

It was created by MadPea Productions for the Nature Publishing Group and MacMillan Publishers’ Elucian Island.

Finally, MadPea made Virtual Medical Doctor, which is the futuristic role­ playing game that gives the players a great way to experience the human body through interesting tasks as well as teaching medicine in a fun and exciting way.

The fact that these educational games are, well, games is no accident.

When asked if the “for fun” games

recognition being greater than the educational games recognition was a cause for concern, Kess answered, “For us, games are always going to be at the centre of what we do and if that’s what we are mainly known for, then we’re happy for that.

We are at heart game creators and we always start with a story and then work outwards on the game mechanics.

Even the ‘just for fun’ games still always have to have the avatar at the centre of the action and immerse the player in a believable and rich story.

Sometimes there are underlying tones and themes to those stories, but at the Continued next page...

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heart is always giving the player the best experience possible.” MadPeas is always going to have that philosophy at the center of their creations...even the educational ones. Interestingly enough, Kess and MadPea’s viewpoint on making educational games that give a fun time as well as knowledge is exactly in line with current pedagogy on making education relevant and practical, mixed in with fun to keep students entertained while they learn.

Kess explains, “As I mentioned during the presentation we have worked with a number of third parties in the past to create games and experiences that had an educational remit and we’re keen to do so again.

With our experience we are able to bring classrooms to life if there is a

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demand from educators for that to happen...and funding of course. People learn more when it’s fun and as you said at the beginning we’re known for fun gaming...if you add an educational element to that there is no knowing how much learning could improve in a specific subject.

It’s also a great place for health education information to be absorbed in a non ‘teachy’ way and many of our past projects have had a health education aspect to them.”

Yet another arena MadPeas has engaged in is working for non­ profit organizations (NPO’s). They are currently working with Live & Learn in Kenya, a global non­government organization (NGO) based in Germany with a presence in Second Life. This

NGO is best known for its Feed a Smile Program, which raises funds to help feed children in the slums of Kenya.

They also raise funds for education for these children, as well as medical and dental care. One of their biggest projects has been to build a school in Kenya so the children can get an education and improve their chances at a better life. When asked about MadPea’s efforts with this charity,

plans to aid Live & Learn, she added, “The Auction will take approximately 3 months to plan and execute and we are always looking for ways that we can include them into the other projects we do. We’re also looking to help another non­profit get established in Second Life but that’s been a little delayed.”

During the in­world presentation on MadPea’s work with Live & Learn, as well as the educational endeavors,

“

MadPea is currently working with Feed a Smile... one of their biggest projects has been to build a school in Kenya so the children can get an education and improve their chances at a better life.

”

Kess replied, “We had heard of the Feed a Smile program and when we were looking for a charity for our first MadPea Celebrity Auction we wanted to choose a charity where we could see the difference the donations would make and the impact that a Second Life fundraiser could have on a real life small charity.

We are currently in the process of putting together the plans for this year’s Celebrity Auction which will be on 30th September to 1st October. We have big plans for this year and hope to make over 2 million L$ over the weekend.”

When asked if MadPea had any future

Kess mentioned that MadPea hoped to get more involved in helping NGO’s and NPO’s. When asked if she had any concrete examples, Kess replied with, “The presentation was really aimed at showing how experiences in Second Life can be used to help non profits, NGO’s or even educators immerse potential supporters or students into an environment.

We are always happy to help and advise companies or organizations looking to create experiences in SL as much as we can. We are also a company that can be contracted to make those experiences for them if time and cost allows.

Continued next page...

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MadPea is committed to continue to keep game experiences at our core while making real life differences to the people behind the avatars through work with Live and Learn in Kenya and other Non Profit organizations.”

It seems as if MadPea is wanting to interest others in expanding the borders

of what SL can be and what it can do.

But then again, as Kess put it, “MadPea has always been at the forefront of what can be achieved within SL. We’re always pushing the boundaries of what can be done with scripting etc., to bring our games to life.

We also look closely at new tools from Linden Labs to help us with that for e.g. Experience Tools and adopted those early to integrate them into our games. We believe that MadPea is an

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excellent example of how SL can change the perceptions of some of the media about what goes on in SL. While I enjoy shopping, dancing and other SL activities I am passionate, as are the team, that SL is recognized as being a creative space where the only thing holding you back is your own imagination.” And on a final note, she added, “We’re open to discussing any projects, large or small with all types of organizations ­commercial, nonprofit or educational.

If they are looking to use SL to inform or educate we can probably help them realize that dream. We are one team and have limited resources but we are always willing to discuss, advise and share as much as we can to help grow SL as a platform.”It seems like, in the eyes of MadPea, they would fully agree with this line from Bachman Turner Overdrive, “You ain’t seen nothin’ yet!” n

Links & Landmarks: MadPea In World MadPea Marketplace MadPea Website

Community

Let The Games Begin INVICTUS Come to the USA

By Ava Jhamin be defined by their injuries?

How can they be recognized for their achievements and not given sympathy? Prince Harry asked these questions. On a trip to the Warrior Games in the USA in 2013 he saw how the power of sport could help physically, psychologically and socially. His mind was made up. London would host the inaugural Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick Service personnel.

The Invictus Games was played out on May 8 to 12 in Orlando, Florida, and was the first time that the US hosted the Games. Men and women came and represented their respective countries for the games that honor their disabilities and show their fight and determination. The Invictus Games were started in 2014 by Prince Harry of the United Kingdom.

Most of us will never know the full horrors of combat. Many Servicemen and women suffer life-changing injuries, visible or otherwise, whilst serving their country. How do these men and women find the motivation to move on and not

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The word ‘Invictus’ means ‘unconquered’. It embodies the fighting spirit of the wounded, injured and sick service personnel and what these tenacious men and women can achieve, post injury. The Games harness the power of sport to inspire recovery,

support rehabilitation, and generate a wider understanding and respect for those who serve their country.

These Games have shone a spotlight on the ‘unconquerable’ character of service men and women and their families and their ‘Invictus’ spirit. These Games have been about seeing guys sprinting for

encapsulate the indefatigable human spirit, which is at the heart of the Invictus Games.

Out of the night that covers me, Black as the Pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeoning of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll.

I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul. n

the finish line and then turning round to clap the last man in. They have been about teammates choosing to cross the line together, not wanting to come second, but not wanting the other guys to either. These Games have shown the very best of the human spirit.

—Prince Harry ‘INVICTUS’ - a poem by William Ernest Henley: Generations have drawn on the words of William Ernest Henley’s poem for strength during times of adversity.

Henley was himself an amputee and the poem reflects his long battle with illness. The title means “unconquered” and the 16 short lines of the poem

Pictures Courtesy of Fisher House Foundation Invictus Official Website

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Let Unique Visions help showcase your new clothing

We always have the designer’s best intere

and like to keep the experience fun and not cum

line or to just bring a fresh look to some older items.

est at heart. We’re very easy to work with,

mbersome. We look forward to working with you.

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Community

Strawberry Singh: Grace and Class in the Face of Prejudice and Hate

By Rhiannon Colclough Note: I don’t usually use only an interviewee’s words...but when you read this you will understand why I did. Hatred’s poison does not belong in any world, nor does prejudice or ugliness.

Photos by Strawberry Singh

Even in the face of such disgusting rancor, Strawberry Singh showed incredible grace and class in reacting to provocation that would have reduced a lesser person to attack in kind. I wanted her kindness and generosity of spirit to shine through a ­ nd so here is her experience, in her own words: I’m not an incredibly religious person. I consider myself more spiritual and call myself a Muslim because that’s the way I was brought up. I still do many things that Muslims do such as fasting, praying, avoiding certain foods etc., but if you were to see me in the real world, you probably wouldn’t be able to tell that I was a Muslim woman.

In the real world, I keep my prayers and spirituality mostly to myself. In the virtual world, I often shared my ethnic and religious background through words on my blog and images I took of my avatar on certain religious occasions. You can see many of them on my Flickr in this album.

So I assumed everyone that followed my avatar on different social networks were Continued next page...

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aware of my ethnicity, religion and background. I also assumed since they had seen my work and words for so many years on my blog and social networks, they knew what kind of person I was. I assumed they knew that I had compassion and consideration for the human race.

When the Paris attacks happened last November, there seemed to be a shift, especially on my Facebook. I saw more and more people blaming all Muslims for the actions of a few psychopaths that have hijacked the religion.

They used misrepresented quotes from Holy Books to try and prove how all of us are the same and we have no compassion for anyone but ourselves. It shook me to see that, and it hurt. Not only did I need to escape the hateful rhetoric of Political leaders, and protect myself from crazy terrorists, but now I must also defend myself to people that were once my social media friends.

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So I wrote a status and poured my heart into it. I am not sure how many people it affected, but I did have many people reach out to me, which helped incredibly. It made me realize that we’re all in this together and we can’t let hate and terror build a wall between us. We’re all the same no matter what race, religion or gender. We’re here just trying to make it through life and give a little back whenever we can.

Learn more about Strawberry at strawberrysingh.com. n

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Modeled & Photographed by OnlyGenesis

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FRANKX LEFAVRE

Depression expressed through art at LEA. The following interprets Frankx’s art in two stories by Sita Writer and Ava Jhamin.

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Arts & Entertainment

Riding the Waves of Depression

By Sita Writer I am a travel writer in RL and involved in public relations and destination marketing. I tend to do a lot of research online and back in 2007, I was developing a RL blog to supplement the print market. In any case, I was researching media outlets of various newspapers and magazines to see what their content was like online.

My idea was to send proposed story ideas to media that I thought would be a good fit for my clients and to structure the query in a way that would fit their editorial style.

A headline in the travel section of the Washington Post caught my eye, “Mexico gets 5 Million Visits Virtually in Second Life.” I am not sure of the exact number of hits but I was impressed and curious, so I decided to see what this Second Life was all about and how it could benefit my RL blogs.

I never played a “game” in my life and had absolutely no clue what I was getting into. I was really a pathetic newbie! But, I was absolutely blown away by what

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I saw…the first thing I did was take the tour of Mexico sponsored by the Mexican Tourist Office. I realized that SL would not work for my clients in RL or the destinations that I represented, but the social interaction and creativity intrigued me so I stuck with it.

Early on I was lucky to be mentored

by Acedia Albion, one of the top designers at that time and actually wrote for her magazine. Satir DeCuir, a top builder and mentor (I still live in her grand palace she built) introduced me to the AvCON fashion crowd and I became the Editor of that magazine and then a Senior Writer for Maniera and moolto.com.

I had not had a lot of relationships in SL and when I met Frankx I was coming out of a very bad, hurtful and confusing time. We have all heard the story. I was partnered to a DJ and actually that is how my blog started. I created it to promote his “gigs”. I would take photos of his events and write a bit about each one.

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I had no idea my partner had an alt or two, a real life wife he lived with here in SL and another partner with an alt. She IM’d me to let me know how lovely things were between them! I had been with this person for three years and was devastated.

I met Frankx at Sweethearts. I was not looking for a partner or even a boyfriend, and neither was he, but somehow we connected. We were on the same wavelength and eventually we decided to partner.

It took months for us to decide.

We took it slow, built a friendship and, naturally, trust and respect for each other grew. I cannot image my SL without him; after all he straightens out all the walls I put up and tries to teach me how to build!

Both of us are well traveled. One of our first connections was Thailand – he lived there, I traveled there many times. We still talk about Thailand and enjoy keeping up with everything that goes on there.

We enjoy an intellectual relationship; we discuss so many things from politics to travel, history and food, cats (mine), building and blogs! Best of all we can be silly and fun, and above all we respect each other and the relationship that we have built. It has been almost four years, a lifetime in SL.

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Frankx is one of the kindest and smartest men I know; I was honored and worried sick when he finally told me about his panic attacks and depression. I really didn’t know very much about depression and the mood swings and the cocktail of medication that has to be just right, that takes ages to kick in.

because he is a chef and I am a lousy cook!!

I am so proud of the way he is dealing with it. He is getting the help he needs and that takes a strong person. Many people that suffer from depression don’t mention it. It takes courage to talk about it with friends and to share such a personal experience.

The build is so deep and intense that it made me cry the first time I saw it completed after I crashed and lost three balloons you use to float down sim. My true solace was to watch Lea 23, Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (named for a drug that is used to fight depression) emerge from the range of emotions Frankx was experiencing. In many ways, I believe this build is part of his healing process. It was a way for him to express the demons that he was fighting.

I did know one thing, I wanted to be there for Frankx; to listen to him and to support him as best as I was able to.

Sometimes it was hard because I didn’t know what to say and since I am a world (literally) away there was nothing I could do, like bring him dinner and that is daring

I also think the complicated scripts and layers of this build and the entire creative process helped him tremendously.

To me, this build shows his passion and pain, the turmoil of depression and tumultuous mood swings; it also shows hope with a serene Buddha and Frankx’s great gift of resilience and creativity. n

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Arts & Entertainment

Depression Through the Eyes of a friend an Artist

By Ava Jhamin The Linden Endowment for the Arts (known as the LEA) is a group of 29 regions, donated by Linden Lab to the residents for the promotion of the arts on the grid, and managed by residents.

Frankx Lefavre with his exhibit Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor, I feel is one of his greatest pieces to date with his work with LEA. I was initially going to write this story together with Frankx’s partner Sita Writer. However, I decided to keep them as separate stories: his partner going through his depression with him, and a friend (me) that was worried sick and never stopped praying for him.

I met Frankx and Sita about four years ago and it was one of those instant connections. Sita and I would get to talking about fashion and Frankx would roll his eyes and make us giggle.

Because Frankx is in Australia the time zones only allowed us to say hi early in the morning. For me it was ok because I was such an early riser.

I have always been a great fan of Frankx and his artistic endeavors at LEA.

I remember the very first one when he took me around the sim. All I kept thinking was that this man’s mind is an incredible place. His creativity and bringing a sim to life never ceased to amaze me. I credit both Frankx and Sita for bringing out a hidden creative in myself out.

I found out from Sita that Frankx was going through a bad bout of panic attacks and depression. I was instantly just sad, and not wanting my friend Frankx to go through this. I know that a lot of people go through depression, but when it is someone you know and care about it makes it hard. I instantly started to pray, because well that’s just what I do.

I remember my first trip to Lea 23, at first taking the inhibitor that I felt like I was inside Frankx’s brain, and when I slowly came down I couldn’t fly. I had to just take it all in. I felt as much as I could the depth of what he was going through. The first time I just balled and had to leave and gather myself and then go back. I saw the men in the tubes as falling into the depths of his Continued next page...

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mind and the hands there to catch them but would they? The streaks of light were almost like the inner workings and the electrical circuit of the brain. The colors all of it gave me a picture like I never experienced.

When you are someone that hasn’t ever gone through depression, Frankx’s art made the experience real and I could get a true sense of what people who have panic attacks and depression go through. I felt that I already thought this man was a genius, but now there was such a level of respect and awe that I can’t put it into words.

I think for him to come forward and talk about it was just a huge thing.

I feel that this is a sim that could shed light on those who may be going through similar symptoms and not even know it. For me, It helped me understand it a little better.

Thank you Frankx for letting us see once again a piece of you that is beyond any so far. n

Landmark: Frankx art at LEA sim

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Arts & Entertainment

The Intoxicating Voice of Toxic Darkmatter

By Jena Adder Toxic Darkmatter (Toxie as her friends call her) is a singer, builder, burlesque performer and quite frankly one of the most intelligent women I have met on Second Life. I met this fiery minx a little over six years ago in a Welcome Area called Moose Beach. It was a place where many went to socialize and sometimes lend a helping hand to the newbies in need. Toxic did just that. I admired her from afar and many times shamelessly copied her look. I learned cool styling techniques from Toxie, and got some awesome landmarks that helped me pimp my avatar. You could say she was one of the people who lit the fashion fire in my soul.

She wasn’t one to shy away from challenges, and I witnessed many of her ventures over the years—building, managing clubs and sims, running businesses, performing—you name it, she probably did it. She has a tough exterior and can defend herself against all adversity. This pint-size warrior had so much ammunition crammed in her 10-inch stilettos, you really did not want to mess with her, as so many found out the hard way (smiles).

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As we drew closer as friends, we shared some fun times and some amazing memories. One of the areas I saw her grow in is singing. From her days doing Karaoke to now, she is a beautiful, talented singer doing her thing on the SL club circuit and performing nightly at some of the most popular venues on the grid. Her sultry, raspy voice is intoxicating and I’m not shy to say, it has gotten me in the mood on several occasions (grins). Toxic inspired me in so many ways, and I’m happy to share her story with the Diversity Magazine readers.

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Jena: Hello Toxie. Thank you for doing this interview. It’s always a pleasure reconnecting with you to talk about old times and share new experiences. Please give our readers a little background about yourself, and how you started on Second Life.

Toxic: Thank you Jena for asking me to be a part of this! I’m a 46 year old woman living in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I discovered Second Life on the forums of another 3D platform I used to be a member of. There was always a comparison between the two, as though they were rivals. My curiosity won out, and I made an account here back in 2007. I fell in love with all of the things we could do here and never looked back!

Jena: What have you taken away from your many adventures in SL? Toxic: The one thing I have always seemed to discover is true, is how small of a world Second Life really is. It’s fascinating in how you can live your life here, and I try to live my life here the same way as i do in real life. The biggest thing is to be kind.

I truly strive to be kind to everyone I meet.. At least until they prove that they aren’t deserving of my kindness.

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I have found that people remember who you are here. They remember how you’ve treated them. Many new members that I helped in the beginning I have run into from time to time and they remember me and what I did for

them. It could have been something so small as to give them an outfit or a shape or an AO, but they still remember the act of kindness. We can laugh about how much of a ‘newb’ they were at the time, but it still feels good to be well

thought of by someone, even if you didn’t remember helping them! It just gives credence that small kindnesses can really go a long way, and you never really know who you may touch and connect with by doing the simplest of acts.

Jena: That’s very true Toxie...I’m living proof of that.

You are very vocal about the adversities women face in relationships and life in general. Tell us about some of the adversities you faced in your life (SL and/or RL)?

Toxic: Oh Lord Jena!!*laughs* I’d need to write a few chapters on this. I think I will just revert to what I’ve always done, and that’s allow myself to be a bit transparent here.

I’ve never hidden who I am even on a 3D platform that allows for so much anonymity.

I am overweight, a single mother, and disabled. This can make me a bit of a target, in both worlds really. However, I am a fighter, despite that there are so many times when I’m ready to give up.

My life is FAR from perfect.

I’ve been ridiculed and hurt, struggled with debilitating health concerns that I still deal with on a daily basis.

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I don’t want to get into too much detail here and dwell on the negatives. I do, however, feel that by giving those issues a voice, it may help someone else who is facing those same struggles. It also takes away the power of those who try to use these things as a way of getting under my skin.

I am a believer in the sister code.

We need to lift each other up instead of being so quick to tear each other down.

I’ve faced a lot of adversity in my life and there is nothing that anyone on a computer can say to me that will trump that. In the same vein, there are many online that have helped shaped me into being who I am with their love, support, and friendship. I pick and choose my battles and I choose to use that positive part as a way of facing my struggles. Their negativity helps fuel my strength.

Ok! Now let’s learn more about your singing careers. Please share with our readers how and when you got bitten by the singing bug.

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Jena: Yes! That’s a motto I live by daily, Toxie, and one as women we need to do for each other.

Toxic: Singing has always been a part of my life. I started in elementary school with choirs and talent shows. I was involved with a cappella choir in high school that went on to compete against several other states in a choral competition that we won. Our music

through my song list. I usually have a song for everyone! I fully admit tho, I like the sexy songs. I like the adult stuff—it’s fun, silly and people seem to enjoy them.

I enjoy getting a reaction out of my songs and those are always the most fun, when people are involved in the lyrics and joking around and celebrating the fun side of things. I run a gamut between Blues and “Bilingual” and whatever else I can fit between. I love Etta James, Norah Jones, Eva Cassidy, Beth Hart...so so many women singers. I love BB King, Ed Sheerhan, The Eagles.

teacher, Mr. Smith, heralded it as the highlight of his music career and retired after we graduated. I then went on to sing basically just for myself. Going out to karaoke several times a week, and one time being a part of a garage band.

We never got anywhere but it sure was a lot of fun!

Music has always been a catharsis for me. I’m fond of saying that some people use art to decorate blank walls, I use music to decorate silence.

Jena: How would you describe your singing style, and tell us about some of your music inspirations.

Toxic: I’m very eclectic when it comes to my music choices. I think it lends itself well when someone looks

I grew up on 80’s rock and will always love Queen and Led Zepplin! My mother listened to The Beatles, Neil Diamond, Barbara Streisand and loved REO Speedwagon. My Dad was into Chicago, Grand Funk Railroad, Three Dog Night and Janis Joplin...I dare say they had a huge influence on what I am into today.

Jena: Is there anyone you credit for your successes?

Toxic: I have a very dear friend online, whom I’ve known for several years now. We’ve never met face to face but I consider him to be one of my closest friends. He was instrumental in getting me started singing on a more “professional” basis.

I also have to say that getting involved with Whispering Sands Live is probably the best move I’ve ever made. Jorrdan Jarman is my manager and he has this down to an absolute science. He has a team of people that work for/with him.

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They help to find venues looking for entertainers, they provide hosts at the shows, the help send out notices and group invites, they provide booking information, provide confirmations to both me and the venues who hire me.

It truly is a business and it runs like a well oiled machine.

Honestly tho its the people in my group who make this successful.

I have a zany, insane group of friends.. I don’t like to call them

“

Singing has always been a part of my life. I started in elementary school with choirs and talent shows.

”

“fans” They are what keeps me doing what I do. I have made some incredible friendships and get inspired daily by these people.

Jena: What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a singer on SL. Toxic: Learn how to stream and test out your sound. Make sure your levels are even. Get good tracks...don’t use those tinny sounding midi style tracks EVER. Invest in high quality professional backing tracks. Get a good list of songs. I currently sing over 250 songs and I have another 175 in a file I call “to learn ASAP”.

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Don’t be complacent and think that singing 60 songs over and over again are going to carry you through. That doesn’t last long.

Constantly evolve, adding music and new styles. Don’t be afraid to learn new things, and don’t be afraid to screw up.

I have what I call “guinea pig sessions”. I try a new thing out on mic in front of 50 people and I warn them that Ive never done this before so it might suck, and I do it anyways because surprisingly, they appreciate it when you’re not perfect and can laugh at yourself.

Be willing to compromise, and be kind. The SL music scene is really kind of small. We all know each other, we all talk to each other.

Just be yourself, be consistent and reliable, be human and have fun.

Jena: I mentioned earlier some of your other talents on SL. When you’re not singing do you still build, perform burlesque, or do some of the other things you love.

Toxic: I do still build and do burlesque. Building was my first love on SL and I still take the time to make things. The last build was a full sim build for a 1920’s New York RP sim. I also belong to and compete in a group called Build Off World. We do competitive build offs that help hone our skills.

It’s a lot of fun to be given a theme and watch everyones different ideas on a common subject.

Currently I am trying to learn Blender and Maya so that I can produce better builds with more detail and not rely so heavily on what others made to build.

Burlesque sort of gives me the best of both worlds. I build my sets, choreograph them with my music choices and perform them in front of an audience. I’ve recently joined with Guerilla Burlesque and hope to become an active member with their incredible troupe.

I’ve also performed with Lady Garden Cabaret. Just recently I was able to do something new with two performers Adam Magic and Muse Baily. I sang live while they performed to the music on a set and routine they built. It was a bit of a challenge timing wise as there is a considerable amount of delay when I sing and when others hear me.

The delay can be between 30 and 45 seconds difference. So having to sing and them lining up with my voice was interesting, but it came off really well and I was glad for the opportunity to do something like that.

to do that and post the videos online on my Facebook and my Toxie fan page on Facebook as well.

I hope to try out for The Voice again in the upcoming month and have been considering doing some more collaboratives with other musicians on the grid. I also plan on hitting a few of the “real world” SL Jams in the future and getting a chance to physically see and hang out with the wonderful music community we have here in SL. Jena: Thank you Toxie for sharing with us your SLife and giving us a peak into your real life. You are a talented singer with a titanium aura that guards a heart of gold.

Thank you for your fearless attitude that inspires many like me. I wish you continued success in whatever you do. n Links & Landmarks: For schedule, rates and performances contact Toxie’s management, Jorrdan Jarman (Jorr) of Whispering Sands Live Promotions.

Listen to Toxie on Soundcloud

Jena: What can we look forward to from you in the future?

Toxic: I’ve recently started doing live cam recordings of me singing.

I wanted to give back in a more personal way to say thank you to those in my group. I will continue

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Fashion

Models, Producers, Graduates – When It’s Not As Simple As “Just Showing Up”

By Rhiannon Colclough When you’re the subject of an article as well as the writer, it gets just a little strange...so forgive me if there’s a few “I’s” sprinkled in here and there! I just can’t resist letting you all out there know about the joys of doing a modeling production, especially when it is your own graduation!

I and two other classmates, Gigi (getitgirlglam) and Bella (bellabeauty98), got to experience that first-hand: the pride of “OMG, they asked ME!” to the terror of “OMG... they ASKED me!”; the panic that you’ll never get it right and you’ll look like a total dunce; the embarrassment over mistakes made and the glow of when you finally get it right; and then when it all comes together, the exhilaration of being pushed

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beyond your boundaries and the growth you learned along the way.

I know those were just a few of the emotions I felt...and from their responses, I think my compatriots felt the same way.

I asked Gigi and Bella what it was like for them to do their first production, and for their own graduation to boot!

Gigi: Doing this production was by far one of my best moments in SL to date. I will never forget the day Hezabel messaged me, she was like I want you do be our Graduation Producer. I literally laughed so hard, I could not believe her.

I felt this way because I had literally just graduated.

I could have bet money it was just a joke (laughs). Hezabel put all her faith in me and was so confident I was a perfect fit for the job, with that alone I knew I wanted to do this, to challenge myself and make her and all of L’Amour proud.

So much goes into a large production such as this, not only was I graduating with this class but I also was learning everything from the ground up. In the beginning it was overwhelming, nerve racking, just an overall intense experience. Some may think of those things as negative. it wasn’t for me it was challenging, interesting, and an opportunity for

growth. It was such an honor for L’Amour to offer me such an amazing opportunity, for the first few weeks of planning and getting all my ducks in a row it literally did not feel real. I felt like I was floating, elated.

I don’t know how many times I asked my sis, Production Assistant and Script Writer if this was really happening and to pinch me.

Seeing everyone’s hard work and dedication come to fruition was the most amazing experience.

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article for Diversity magazine. It was interesting to hear what their roles were:

energy and most of all Ava’s kind and thoughtful speech of each and every one of us, a truly humbling experience all in all.

Bella: It was an extremely enriching learning experience, I learned so many things that goes on behind the scenes of a show. I have a greater appreciation now for any show that I attend. There were some nerves yes (LOL), and It’s a lot of work, but the benefits of seeing your hard work come into full fruition is really gratifying.

I then asked what each of their roles were for the graduation production.

I was the Media Coordinator, getting the information from the graduates and staff of L’Amour University and compiling an invitation (with the amazing help of ZeeZee (Zexxxy Xaris)!) and also writing up an

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Gigi: I was responsible for all logistics; communication, scheduling of production aspects as well as models. Making sure we had every aspect of behind the scenes as well as the actual forefront production.

Everything from Stage Choreography, hiring the right team members from Model Directors to the DJ. As you can see, that is a lot to have to organize which is why I could not have done it without my Production Team especially my right and left hands Rhiannon and Bella Rene.

These fine ladies assisted me in every way possible, keeping me sane, as you can imagine your head could whirl with so many aspects to stay on top of.

Rhiannon assisted with all media relations and creative aspects of this production. She has such an artistic eye. Her contributions to this show’s theme and design came so naturally to her. Bella, being my Production Assistant and Scriptwriter, she was my mini me. She assisted with every aspect of this Production. She was my carbon copy, my scheduling assistant and my editor. Including,

writing that fabulously, articulate script that included the students’ Style Descriptions.

Without these ladies this production could not have run as smoothly as it did. I am beyond thankful for that.

things can be ever changing, up until the last minute or hour of the show.

Bella: I got to utilize my passion for literature and to be creative in describing the various designs of

Bella: I was the script writer for the Gatsby en Vogue graduation. (She was being modest; in order to do that, she had to get the style cards from the graduates, make sure that for each step in the choreography, the correct script was there...it was a lot more than one would think!)

When asked what they learned from this experience, they each replied: Gigi: I have taken so much back from this experience.

The absolute first and most important thing has been TEAM work! Sounds cliché but it is so imperative that you have a very transparent yet open relationship with everyone involved. Secondly, organization is absolute key. You really need to be able to prioritize especially because

the models. I learned valuable lessons, Teamwork, Grace under pressure, and fine tuning to give the listener a vision of the design than just a model walking in a garment down the catwalk.

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Gigi: Being that this was my very first try at anything of this caliber, there really are so many ways this could have gone. The reason that this production was done so well, is not just the team but my mentor Ava Jhamin.

Without the fine graces, undivided support and, most of all, Ava and Hezabel’s belief in me on this project is the very reason why I don’t have any “What Ifs” swirling around me.

L’Amour’s fantastic training is the very reason for this, Ava was at my disposal.

She was an impeccable coach. No matter how many times I messaged her with questions, clarifications, changes, she was so very patient with me. Trust me when I say I was a pest, I had sooooo many questions, I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor.

Bella: Well not that I’m a know it all, there are many things that could take place in the production of a show. For example, not having all the information needed in the style cards. I wish I knew multiple languages more fluently in working with people from different cultures. This would have been a very useful tool to have (smile).

I had to agree with both of them...I had so much help from ZeeZee and Ava myself...and yes, I have often wished I knew another language other than English! Thinking about all that we three had experienced, I asked them the final question: Given what you know now, what would you tell your earlier self when asked to do this?

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Gigi: What a great question! I would tell her to believe in yourself, you know what you are capable of. To remind her that you can do anything you set your mind on. That if you truly invest your heart in something, you will make it happen.

Bella: To not worry, to put your best foot forward and feel confident in your abilities.

Amen to all that. I know I have grown immensely since that experience and my only regret is that I didn’t take the Production class from L’Amour University beforehand! But hey...better later than never!

It was oh-so-sweet, too, when we all danced at the after-graduation party, because we knew that our efforts had brought all this about. We set our minds to it, put our best feet forward, and it all paid off, as you can see! n

Challenge yourself...

Contact Bai Nightfire

Fashion

PAZZO Style Challenge

By Bai Nightfire Hello there! I am Bai Nightfire, Director and COO of L’Amour’s Pazzo Style Challenge. This monthly competition was started by Ava Jhamin.

Ava started the Pazzo Style Challenge with one thing in mind: for models to learn with their peers about styling, and for all the contestants to have a blast. Originally in 2013 Pazzo was a 20 minute style challenge. It changed to what it currently is as Ava felt that it intimidated the new models.

running the event. It has been very rewarding for me and all that come to do Pazzo. Each participant gets feedback on their styling, walk, poses... everything...along with their scores.

This is a rare thing on the grid in general, but L’Amour always wants the models to learn from their mistakes. If not then they would just keep making the same mistakes.

The Pazzo (which means in Italian “crazy”) Style Challenge was started as a vision for models to come together and learn from one another and to just have a blast.

This is one of those rare competitions where it actually is who is the best and not who you are or who you know. I would like to thank all of the contestants who have done these challenges throughout the years... because of you it was a success. Judges are different each month except for myself and Ava jhamin who has been on the judges panel from the beginning.

I won Pazzo 15 and 17 and after Solde stepped down last fall, I took over

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For the month of April the theme was “A Day at the Beach”. The winner was

Saori440. Her Minions inspired outfit was amazing and she pulled the look off without a hitch. Some might have gone overboard but this was the perfect mix for the look. Wonderful job Saori!

May brought an interesting challenge for all contestants in which they had to do a Tribal Avant Garde themed outfit. All that took part did a great job with their styling and posing but the winner was again Saori440! Her styling with the black feathers, tribal necklace and outstanding makeup and tattoos took it over the edge for me and our judges, and she won again. She has a wonderful career ahead of her!

Come out and participate or watch for our next event which will be mid to the end of June.

See you then! n

NOTE! 29TH PAZ ZO STYLE CHALLEN GE

CIRCUS Y OUR WAY Sunday, Ju ! ne 26, 201 6 10:00 AM (slt) Contact B ai Nightfi re for details .

CORRECTION NOTICE! We would like to make a correction to the error made in April’s issue of Diversity Magazine. The incorrect picture was shown for the winner. The winner was CatsMeow17 and the correct picture is shown here.

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Fashion

Nude & Erotic Modeling

By Ellie Shepard (elettriko) Nude art models have been around since the days of Ancient Greece and their work is both difficult and rewarding. For example: If you want to be a nude art model, you have to be comfortable with your body, know how to hold a variety of poses, and understand the proper protocol.

Being a nude model doesn’t require you to look like you’re ready for the runway or to meet some unrealistic standard of beauty. What do you have to do?

Nude models help artists learn to draw the human body and understand its nuances and structure.

Artists don’t necessarily look for models who fit a stereotype and are open to models of all sizes, shapes, and ethnicities. People with unique body types and asymmetrical bodies

“

are actually sought after. An important requirement for being a nude model is being comfortable with your body.

Before you model nude, you should be comfortable enough to pose nude without blushing, covering yourself up, or trying to only show off the most flattering parts of your body.

However, when we talk about nude modeling, so nude pictures, we have to remember this sentence: The best nude photography is suggestive and revealing, but never explicit!

So now we have some doubts and questions too: Could we consider a nude art as an erotic art?

What does ‘Erotic’ mean to you as either a Model or a Photographer?

For example: We photographers

Nude models help artists learn to draw the human body and understand its nuances and structure.

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Modeled & Photographed

by Jena Adder

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say we shoot ‘Erotic’ - what do we mean? Models say they offer ‘Erotic’ - what do you mean, models? What sort of images? What sort of poses?

Does it have to be explicit or not? If you are a model, is this a genre that interests you, and why?

It’s totally subjective, but personally I consider an image ‘Erotic’ rather than merely pornographic if the way the sexuality is portrayed is subtle and stylistic, the purpose to arouse equal to the desire to create art.

However, we can say that An Erotic photography is a style of art photography of an erotic and even a sexually suggestive or sexually provocative nature. Erotic photography is generally a composed image of a subject in a still position.

Though the subjects of erotic photography are usually completely or mostly unclothed, that is not a requirement. Erotic photography should be distinguished from nude photography, which contains nude subjects not necessarily in an erotic situation, and pornographic photography, which is of a sexually

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The best and sexiest nudity It is important not to bl

explicit nature. Pornographic photography generally does not claim any artistic or aesthetic merit.

The emphasis of fine arts is aesthetics and creativity and any erotic interest, although often present, is secondary. This distinguishes nude photography from both glamour photography and pornographic photography.

The distinction between these is not always clear, and photographers tends to use their own judgment in characterizing their own work, though viewers also have their judgement. The nude remains a controversial subject in all media, but more so with photography due to its inherent realism. The male nude has been less common than the female, and more rarely exhibited.

Is Today’s Nude Photography Basically Just Porn?

In a word…NO! Absolutely not.

And anyone who thinks differently will always continue to struggle with the wider concept of nude

photography, how to create sexy, adult photos. In order to create the kinds of adult photo images that can allow you to earn a proper living from your photography, it is absolutely vital that you first of all understand and respect the important differences between the two.

Why it is important to know the difference?

The best and sexiest nudity photos that are taken are not, and have never been, porn. It is important not to blur the lines between porn and nude photography.

That is something we urge you to remember during your next shoot. If you fail to truly recognize the difference between the two, then you might as well give up on your nude photography ambitions right now. The best nude photographers are the ones which actually understand and embrace these differences. n

photos that are taken are not, and have never been, porn. lur the lines between porn and nude photography.

”

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Congratulations to the WINNERS of MW’s May 2016 ‘Mesh Assets’ Group Photo Styling Challenge:

dhruvs, MayaBones (syataha), and Jar-el (pletox).

Their photo and theme (Summer Break Riding) captured the essence of friendship and teamwork using mesh products for a cohesive, playful and fun style.

Fabulous work! See all entries at MW’s Flickr Group.

Fashion

Celestial Beauty – Asmita Duranjaya’s Futuristic Art Installations

By Sita Writer Asmita Duranjaya discovered SL in 2007. “Since I was a child, I have been interested in art and literature. With the advent of the Internet, I became intrigued by 3D-design and immersive virtual worlds. Luckily, I discovered SL by chance.

wonderful art installations inspired me to become an artist in SL.”

I was immediately hooked by its artistic immersive interactive features.” Initially Asmita used SL as a platform to advertise her RL publishing company linking it to her web page and to book covers.

One of Asmita’s life long real life passions is science fiction; she is an avid reader of scifi and loves the concept of futuristic builds. Asmita’s builds are unique and she enjoys experimenting. “At first I began by uploading RL paintings and applying the texture on a flat prim in order to show the work as one would see them in a RL art gallery.

Asmita’s artistic skills and techniques continued to evolve as she experimented with all the artistic possibilities offered by SL. “What really got me going was when I met a fabulous artist, Juanita Deharo from Australia. Her work and

As I learned, experimented and observed the artistic development of other much more experienced SL artists, my work evolved by trial and error. Eventually, I developed the technical skills to use in SL to express my artistic visions.

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My goal has be to transfer a futurist ambiance to my art, especially in regard to my landscape installations. I want to create futuristic exotic landscapes that can be interpreted as either dystonic or utopic.”

Asmita’s third LEA 10 build, CyberPolis The Oracle should not to be missed. “My first LEA build was arranged around the ambient compositions of my favorite German science fiction author Michael K. Iwoleit. He is active in SL and collaborates with me by playing live concerts in my futuristic landscape installations. Last year I created a dystonic landscape installation with the British artist Snakeappletree called The Paradise of CyberPolis. This build turned out as an artinstallation, a game and a bilingual story, a format, which I used this year too.”

CyberPolis The Oracle has something for everyone from art enthusiasts and gamers to people that love stories and a bit of an intriguing hunt. “The story has a message… in this digital world it is important for people to remember to talk to one another personally without technical devices.”

The relationship between art and fashion is a statement of artistic expression. Since the early 90s designers were drawn to creating clothes using unconventional materials to create sculptural pieces. In SL several fashion designers excel at creating sculptural pieces and one preeminent artist, Asmita connected the dots and decided to organize a fashion show.

“Over the years, I noticed that my landscape art installations were used by models as a Continued next page...

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background for their fashion-photos; as long as people realize that this “backdrop” is an art installation and that it is recognized as such, I think it is a good use of the installation – a win win all the way around.”

In May, Asmita decided to host a fashion show called CyberArt and Cyber Fashion.

“An artist colleague showed me a blog

by Sita Writer with her fashion photos taken on my LEA sim; I was happy she credited my art installation as the backdrop. I was so fascinated, that I contacted her to help me organize and get the word out about a CYBER fashion show.” There were many sponsors of this very successful event including Diversity Magazine and L’Amour Productions.

“I thought that this “CYBER fashion event” was successful and fun. For me, there is no doubt, that fashion can be a type of art and some of my artist colleagues have created dresses and outfits with artistic textures. In my case, it is different. I strive to create an atmospheric landscape, where outfits become part of the installation and any future fashion show will require participants to model certain colors and styles that will embellish the sim and highlight the clothes.” n

Landmark: LEA 10, CyberPolis The Oracle by Asmita Duranjaya

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Role Play

Atoll Tel Ma’at – The Isle of Balance

By Mika Ghostraven (mikazuki nerido)

feeling her way through the different opinions looking for the balanced way.

Mika Ghostraven Once an island filled with strife and ruled by dark sorcery, the land has been newly reclaimed and renamed Atoll Tel Ma’at...

The Isle of Balance. Yet, given it’s dark past, remnants of the old ways still creep beneath its surface, and balance is still a goal to be realized. As dwarves broke ground and began the rebuilding of the land, monsters from the ancient dark breeding experiments of old were driven into the caverns. As more and more civilized folk arrived to make this land their home, one had to wonder if the isle held a ticking time bomb lurking within its core.

Talisien Darkwatch nods thoughtfully as he talked, her eyes taking a faraway look as he comes to the recounting of the druid’s perspective. She is silent a little before speaking,

Eventually she sighs, of the creatures in the caverns below I know about. Some even have a mutual respect for me, and I have let them go their own way because they deterred people from finding my vaults and work spaces below the old city.

True is right in this regard, that although very dangerous, not all are deserving of death. I do not know how the final destruction of my father’s sorcery will affect them however.

What I do not know is what fell things my father created still exist deeper and how they have been affected. What I fear is that they will start to make their way to the surface and only my father knew what horrors he left behind. My other concern is that as a powerful wielder of the arcane, there may be rifts into other planes and other planar creatures to deal with too.

Atoll Tel Ma’at is a neutrally aligned role play sim owned by the Dragon Queen, Talisien Darkwatch. She is the daughter returned to restore and rebalance the land her dark sorcerer father Continued next page...

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had perverted long ago. As Red Magister Apprentice Talisien must uphold the balance between Shadow and Light, therefore, the underlying theme of role play across this land is based on the concept of Balance.

Ma’at is part of the Great Alliance (GA), a group of several medieval/ fantasy role play sims, which includes: Sylvhara, Taure Ru, The Moors of Elmandria, Steelwood, Greenhaven, Vana, and Lundene.

The GA is made up of a mix of

Later in the afternoon, he is well into territory in which he feels eyes upon him and glimpses fleeting shadows moving among the trees.

Zebe’s wolf pack have eyes on him.

He is certain that that means safety for now. A turn of the sand clock and he is into areas untraveled and unmapped.

Two days of travel have passed. It is close to evenfall when he enters a forest like no other he has seen in Tel Ma’at. There is a silence felt as he entered the forest. His senses are

“

Atoll Tel Ma’at is uniquely beautiful in its sim design, based loosely on Atlantean inspiration. Anyone who loves nature will feel at home here...

”

Light, Shadow and Neutrally aligned realms, and intersim role play and Unity meter battle is supported and encouraged. As a neutral realm, all character alignments are welcome on Atoll Tel Ma’at.

Atoll Tel Ma’at is uniquely beautiful in its sim design, based loosely on Atlantean inspiration. Anyone who loves nature will feel at home here, finding a primarily rugged and natural landscape that is a mix of mountain, forest, and cavern.

Built in tiered levels, there is great diversity in its architecture, from Asian, to Celtic, to Moroccan. Alaric:

on full alert. A trail he crosses within the forest provides good access and invites him deeper within. The dark closes in bit by bit. He stops and peers down the trail. His skills will allow him to follow this trail in the dark, yet he knows he should stop and secure himself for the night.

What one sees initially upon arrival is just the tip of the iceburg, as Ma’at not only contains numerous guild houses and private homes for rent, but also contains a hidden undercity within the underground caverns accessible by rowboat. Here one can find additional guilds and Continued next page...

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homes, a tavern and bathhouse, along with various tunnels that should be entered at your own risk.

Valas: I can and will guide you into the darkness, and I will assist with ending whatever mimicry of life is residing below, that which flows the empty halls and ruin’s. I know not

“

races and classes allowed within the GA family of sims are welcome.

Zebeyanna Baenath nods as she picks up Leer, the twin to Luna. & There are seven cubs right now and ten adults. That isn’t counting the three dire wolves that came with me long ago from Lundene. Montage is the

The untamed landscape of Ma’at is further balanced by the more civilized village and open spaces on the Isle of Whispering Pines... the names of the creatures, only that they have been in this land much longer than I.” “Slowly spreading his arms out wide to encompass the magnitude of the mountains, he speaks. There will be and must be a gathering. We must collect the proper souls to be successful. Our group must be strong.

Know that I cannot guarantee that all will find and return to the light, and some may perish. This is not a matter to be taken lightly.” All classes find a home here, from warriors following a samurai, cavalier, ranger, or assassin path, to healers of druid, shaman, and cleric origins, to bards, monks and mages. Ma’at is home as well to multiple magical folk, including; fae, dragons and a thriving wolf pack. All

”

newest male we have. The rest that aren’t feral wolves or dire wolves are lycans...aside from me, and by the gentle graces of the Moon Mother and that from the demon wolf deity, Fenrir, I am Wolfen. Just recently another Wolfen made it home.”

The untamed landscape of Ma’at is further balanced by the more civilized village and open spaces on the Isle of Whispering Pines (Greenhaven) owned by Jaki Stardancer-Vossler (jakire) and Zargabaath Vossler (zargabaath).

Ma’at at is all about balance, and role-players find this balance is further enhanced with the free-flow of intersim role play made easily accessible via tel bridge between the two very different sim realms.

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True turns to face the fae queen, her eyes still glowing, shifting hues redolent of a labradorite crystal. “May I come here again?

I need to be here. She stammers a moment, the emotion from the surrounding crystals, and then to be in the presence of this one still so overwhelming. She pulls the rolled map from her traveling satchel and unrolls it, showing Jaki the double puncture holes from the owl’s claws when he had stolen her map, a set on Tel Ma’at, and a matching set on the Isle of Whispering Pines.” This was the sign that brought me here. She gestures to the Crystal of Life, I feel certain this is the reason.

And perhaps also to find you?

Lady Jaki, you know both the human and fae realm. Who better than you, if you are willing, to help me understand this other side of my heritage?

Ma’at was recently recognized for it’s beauty when chosen as the setting to film clips for the 2016 Fantasy Faire promo video. Players representing many of the GA realms took part in a battle to fight the Unweaver within the undercity.

Visitors are welcomed, and sim rules are available at the landing point.

Dress is medieval/fantasy, and should be race/character appropriate. Local chat is reserved for active role play, while out of character chat maybe

enjoyed in IM, as well as the Great Alliance OOC chat group.

To obtain group membership in the Atoll Tel Ma’at group, please complete and turn in a character card at the sim landing. As Atoll Tel Ma’at is a newer sim in the GA collective, you will find a quickly growing family to welcome you.

Linn: A phoenix; Linn’s eyes widen.

How rare. I guess that means good fortune for the land. Talisien looks to True; A phoenix indeed! Now that is rare. I must come and take a look.

True: Um...I might add...she has not been overly friendly. If she burns down the druid keep, I’m not sure that is an omen of good providence; she chuckles.

If you are looking for a medieval/ fantasy sim full of diverse culture and residents, beautiful design, and ripe with quality intersim role play, bring your favorite medieval or fantasy character to the shores of The Isle of Balance and join in the adventures in Atoll Tel Ma’at. n

Links & Landmarks: Atoll Tel Ma’at

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Social

“GET IT OUT ” Dear Get It Out: My name is Blanca. I have someone in sl that has an issue with me for no apparent reason. She griefs me and does really mean things and won’t tell me why she is doing it. What do I do to handle this situation?

Dear Blanc: If you have tried to talk to this person and they won’t or are not listening, then report them. Sometimes for their own reasons, sad, mad whatever it is, they need to do to others to make themselves feel better. I know from own experiences that they usually will take it out on the ones they love most. I hope that helps.

Dear Get It Out: My name is Juanita and the man in my life is up to no good. It’s nothing I have caught him at or anything like that...just I feel it. What should I do.

thing for me. They are always saying you have fake friends you’re a looser.

Dear Sam: First Sam this one I totally relate to, as probably a lot of Second Life Users.

I know that for me in the past that if it wasn’t for my SL friends to see me through some hard times only God knows what I would have done. I think sisters are always going to tease you because you’re the youngest. But explain to them if you wouldn’t leave me out so much, then I wouldn’t have gone to Second Life in the first place.

Everyone comes to Second Life with their own reasons and stories Sam, tell your sisters to include you, and mean it, and see what happens then. Remember you always have Second Life. But your family always should come first.

Dear Juanita: Always go with your gut. God gave us that intuition for a reason so use it. If it talks like a rat, walks like a rat, then more the likely it is a rat.

Dear Get It Out: I wish to remain incognito please.

I have a daughter on sl who I think is taking advantage of my generous nature and spoiling her rotten. How do I know if she is being real or just using me?

Dear Get It Out: My name is Sam and my issue is more rl. I came to Second Life because my sisters who are a few years older were leaving me out of everything.

So I made some really good friends on Second Life to cope with it. My question is how do I make my sisters understand that I did because they hurt me so much and it was a survival

Dear Incognito: Stop gifting her and see what happens.

If she continues to want to be with you even though she isn’t getting gifts, then there is your answer. She loves you for you. If she leaves or makes comments that you haven’t bought her anything then you have to decide if this is what you want your daughter relationship to be. n

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Send notecard with your sl or rl issue to Ava Jhamin, Publisher Issue 6, June 2016 | L’Amour Diversity Magazine

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