Diamond Magazine Issue 2 , ‘23

DIAMOND MAGAZINE - THE DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH THAT IS ST. LOUIS -

VOL 2 | JULY 2023

Letter from t creato

This magazine is a the voiceless, a ho the lost, an opport hunters, and an all creative space for me. I want to heal nity as much as I w ebrate our many a ments. Let that pre that diamond insid

FOLLOW US: IG: @DiamondMagazine314 | Twitter: @DiamondMagazine314

Table of contents

ter m the ator:

3.

ine is a voice for ss, a home for opportunity for d an all around ace for people like o heal my commuh as I wanna celmany accomplishhat pressure mold nd inside you. - Stu

4.

MAKE THE SWITCH A resource for making healthier food and product choices

GEMMY SPEAKS A message from our diamond mascot.

5-6.

WHAT’S THE WORD

7-8.

WHAT IS ART?

9.

TIME TO EAT ADVERTISEMENT

10.

LAUNCHCODE ADVERTISEMENT

11-15.

Upcoming events happening right here in St. Louis

The concept of art. A conversation with Eugenia Alexander.

Your new favoritre delivery service

Learn about receiving a free tech education.

16.

LETTERS TO BLACK MEN

A note from one brother to another

17-18.

10K HISTORY

Highlighting historical figures and places in St. Louis

19.

THE BLACK MARKET

20.

MY FAVORITE BRUNCH SPOTS

21.

INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE

22.

BLACK PAGES

Shop the hottest apparel from local vendors

Real recommendations on the best restaurants in St. Louis

A word of encouragement

Your favorite listing of Black-Owned businesses you should know

DIAMOND FEATURE: TRU WAG An interview with the funniest man in St. Louis

DIRECT ALL QUESTIONS, IDEAS AND COMMENTS TO DIAMONDMAG314@GMAIL.COM

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R ecycling 4

REASONS WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

1. Protects ecosystems and wildlife 2. Conserves our natural resources 3. Reduces carbon emissions 4. Saves energy

A Message from Gemmy

July 2023

What’s The Word?

2 8 15 21

ST. LOUIS FAIR Keiner Park Plaza Tues, 2pm-11pm

ST. LOUIS MOBAR BLAST CAR SHOW World Wide Technology Raceway Mon, 8am

TASTE OF ST. LOUIS Crown Square Apartments Mon, 1pm-7pm

ALICIA KEYS Enterpriise Center Fri, 8pm

4 8 16 25

FAIR ST. LOUIS Gateway Arch National Park Tues, 11am-11pm

ART, MIMOSAS & PANCAKES Diamond Magazine Feature Sat, 8pm

SNOOP DOGG & WIZ KHALIFA Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre Tues, 6pm-10pm

50 CENT: THE FINAL LAP TOUR Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre Fri, 7pm-11pm

Pictured: Eads Bridge The Eads Bridge is a combined road and railway bridge over the Mississippi River connecting the cities of St. Louis, Missouri and East St. Louis, Illinois.

WHAT IS ART? “The Concept of Art”- A Conversation with Eugenia I wanna start by saying I’ve always admired your work. You were actually my first big purchase.

Your pieces opened my eyes to a broader spectrum of “What is Art”. How would you answer that question?

Aww thank you! You were one of the first people to support my art work when I first started showing work and I’ve always appreciated that support from you. But to me Art is the process of creating organically between spirit and being. Art is creating and then coming out of that flow being like, “Damn, I made this?!” It’s that feeling of listening to a song for the first time and getting goosebumps or crying.

Art is eating a dish and that dish taking you back to a core memory or making you do that food dance.

It’s looking at a painting and being engulfed in that painting emotionally. God is Art. You ever just go outside and look at the sky on the perfect spring day and be like damn, this is beautiful? That’s Art.

I love that feeling! I’ve always felt my pieces needed to convey a certain emotion through colors and patterns. But speaking of your first showing, how important do you think confidence is to an artist? And what did it take for you to get over that initial hump?

Confidence is important for sure because if you aren’t confident in your work people outside of your work won’t believe in it. But for me it’s really about being vulnerable. As an artist we speak with our art and like Badu said “Keep in mind I’m an artist, and I’m sensitive about my shit.” So putting ourselves and art out into the world for the first time is us showing our emotions and being fully open. Open to receiving love for our work, people not feeling it, being critiqued. Everybody isn’t going to like your work. That’s just a given. Or not every piece you produce but at the end you’re going to have so many people that connect to your work which makes being vulnerable worth it. You just gotta take that first leap. For me my first show being a group show helped a lot because there were a lot of people that were first time showers that I was in the show with along with vets that had been showing for years that were encouraging. When I first started showing art, Instagram wasn’t as poppin like now. So posting artwork didn’t really get you the traction it does now. My first gallery show was 2013 (I was 23). Instagram came out 2010, so only 3 years really, the outlet that Instagram provides now wasn’t there then. I would say for anyone wanting to show work but is on the fence, use Instagram as a start if you aren’t ready to show in an art show just yet. And I bet you opportunities will come knocking and you’ll get so many people connecting to your work and that’ll help with the confidence of showing in public.

Wow I love these answers! Working with new artists in my first show definitely helped relieve some of the anxiety. Last Question, is there a piece you feel most connected with and why?

Yea the anxiety of showing for the first time is real and it helps a lot showing with others. But I don’t necessarily have a “most connected piece.” I would say I have a genre that I connect

with most and that’s textiles and natural dying. The reason I connect most with working with textiles is because of the process and history. My grandmother taught me how to sew and also how to dye fabrics. With that history I have more of a connection to working with fabric. I also grow plants and extract color from them to use for dying fabric and making watercolor paints and inks to use for making art. This process I absolutely love because it connects me to nature and how I feel is the beginning of creativity. It feels more organic and natural creating this way. Before we had manufactured paints and dyes people found their art supplies within nature. It all ties back to what I said in the beginning, God is art. God provided the first art supplies through natural resources and it’s only right that I explore and be able to create with nature’s gifts of color. Now I’m not saying everything I use I make lol but the majority of my textile art is naturally sourced and or made.

Wow I never heard of that. See that’s what I meant when I said you showed me art can be so much more! I would’ve never thought to use dye from plants.

Truly amazing stuff. Well Eugenia, it’s been great talking to you. Is there anything you’re working on or any upcoming shows you would like to let the audience know about?

Thanks for including me! What you and your team are doing is great. There’s so much talent here in Saint Louis that a lot of people don’t know about so it’s great that you all are shining a light on the amazing creatives here. St. Louis is really a hidden gem for creative talent. But no shows yet, I am working on some workshops on teaching how to natural dye and make watercolor paints from plants this summer. And if people want to learn more about what I do and create they can follow at @eugeniaalexand on Instagram

Aligned with the moon and stars, 2021 15x15 $150.00 Contact @eugeniaalexand on social media for all inquiries

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D I A M O N D

F E A T U R E

Tru W

THE FUNNIEST MA

u Wag

MAN IN ST. LOUIS

D I A M O N D

F E A T U R E

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got to where you are now.

I’m a St. Louis Artist and Content Creator who focuses mainly on St. Louis based content.

Pronunciation, lifestyle, and music. I really jumped into creating during the pandemic but I’ve always done music my entire childhood.

As you know we are a St. Louis based magazine. So tell us how life was growing up in the city and how it’s had an impact on your success.

I was born in North City St. Louis and eventually moved to U City. I have a diverse background, from seeing the side of the streets, as well as, being able to co-exist with someone who could be a CEO in an office. Having different influences really translates in my content.

What can we expect in the future for you?

Short term? Long term?

Short term I plan to use my ability to shoot small film in music videos. Would like to incorporate my comedy into visuals for my music.

And long term I plan to start a label and media center for talent in the St. Louis area.

What are some pros & cons about what you do?

Pros would be things like validation. Being able to feel like your art is as good as you believed in your head. Manifesting a vision into real life. Making others happy. Cons would have to be things like not being able to enjoy things in the moment. Sometimes I’m in a place where I need to just sit and enjoy my environment but I may be on my phone either uploading or checking out pop culture to stay on top of business. Or scheduling a video or meeting.

If people want to collaborate with you what is the best way to contact you?

Reach out through social media but 9 times out of 10 I will find good people to work with. If you’re working, I’ll find you.

Do you have any advice for people trying to get into the same field as you?

Stay consistent. Its not enough to just chase a dream. You have to keep adapting so that one day you’re strong enough to catch it.

Photoshoot by @gdthephotographer

“Stay consistent. Its not enough to just chase a dream. You have to keep adapting so that one day you’re strong enough to catch it.”

I never thought I’d be building a brand surrounding comedy and St. Louis but I always felt like I was going to do something important. It’s crazy how things find you. I never really believed in destiny, I rather choose to believe in the fact that you choose who you are going to be everyday in the things you choose to do. It doesn’t just happen because its meant to be. You have to walk in the steps. However, now I believe it’s a bit of both. What’s meant for you is meant for you but you will never obtain what’s for you if you don’t do the work. I’m convinced now I’ve found my purpose with the building of this brand. I’ve found something I can be proud of and I can leave a mark of history on the city and hopefully have a impact on the youth going forward. This isn’t just a hobby anymore…its my life and I take that serious.

Follow Tru Wag on Social Media @TruWag

@TruWag

@ItsVinciBih

Letters To Black Men FROM ONE BROTHER TO ANOTHER

Peace and many blessings to all brothers who will read and receive this message.

It has been said a great many of times of who you are. What you can accomplish. Who you’re meant to be. But I say to you, man to man, that it is your birthright to define these very things all on your own. Define these things for yourself, your family and your communities. Yes. In recent history, the position of our fathers and forefathers has been one that has been relegated to a state of insignificance. However, I must remind you that you are indeed the head and was never meant to be the tail.

It does not matter what society has said of you because you know the truth of who you are. There have been many great men who have come before you that have been long forgotten.

Brothers who have dedicated their lives to be the very best version of themselves and have shifted the world in innumerable ways. As you go out into the world remember that you represent those who have come before you and have been tasked with carrying that same greatness forward. Recognize the power that lies within you.

To whatever that has been holding you back it is now time to push through. To the things that you have been under it is now time to overcome. And to the things that have kept you blinded it is now time to see.

My brother locate yourself and properly assess where you currently stand. Once you do so you can then position yourself to take back hold of your life and your surroundings. And with that I wish you love and prosperity.

Jan Mostaert Portrait of an African Man (1525-1530)

10K

history

The Griot Museum of Black History is St. Louis history.

Approaching 30 years of operations, The Griot Museum of Black History is not only a staple within the cultural landscape of St. Louis. But it is also a pioneer for wax museums that specifically highlight and preserve black history. Founded in 1997 by Lois Conley, the establishment was originally named the “Black World History Wax Museum.” The second of its kind in all of the nation only preceded by the “National Great Blacks in Wax Museum” established in 1983.

At the corner of St. Louis Ave and 25th Street, The Griot Museum finds itself in the heart of North City Saint Louis. Inside you will find a number of exhibitions that cover the history of Black people dating back 400 plus years. Most notably, the location features wax sculptures of historical figures such as Percy Green II, Elizabeth Keckley, William Wells Brown and many more.

Diving deeper into Black Americans absolutely unique tie to American history you’ll find more exhibitions such as a cabin that housed formerly enslaved black people transported from Jonesburg, Missouri; a model of the ships used to transport African people during the Atlantic Slave Trade and portrayals of slave auctions that

Loc 250 St. (314 info

Sum Tue 10:0 (Su

Las

Vision: To be the premier resource for Black history and culture in the Midwest. took place right on the Old Courthouse grounds in St. Louis, MO. This important work is encapsulated in the term and title of that of the griot. In a number of African cultures, the griot is tasked with the responsibility of collecting, distributing and thus preserving the history of a people through various means. It is with this in mind that in 2009 the establishment decided to officially change its name from the Black World History Museum to The Griot Museum of Black History.

the city-wide art project “Counter Public.”

In 1997, Conley embarked on this endeavor in an effort to preserve the history of a people and their contributions in a place that otherwise would have liked to have forgotten them and their experiences. Today we honor The Griot Museum for the great work they have done and for their place in St. Louis history.

Aside, from its many exhibitions, temporary and permanent, The Griot has captured St. Louis and American history through a number of ways over the years. Programs such as “40 Acres and a Mule” is an annual fundraiser that serves as a reminder of the unfulfilled promise of restitution to formerly enslaved Black people. The “Black HerStory Initiative” aims to honor Black American Women and their contributions to St. Louis city and abroad. The museum is also currently partnering with David Adjaye of The Smithsonian on a new installation titled “Asaase III” apart of The Griot’s logo features the Sankofa bird. In the Twi language of Ghana, Sankofa means “Go back and get it.”

Location + Contact 2505 St. Louis Ave St. Louis, MO 63106 (314) 241-7057 info@thegriotmuseum.com

Admission $10.00 for ages 13 and above $5.00 for ages 5-12

Summer Hours Tuesdays - Saturdays 10:00am - 5:00 pm (Subject to COVID-19 restrictions) Last admission is at 4pm

*Groups of 30, or more, receive 10% discount. Call or email for details.

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Y O U S H O U L D T R E A T Y O U R S E L F

MY

FAVORITE Real Food

S H O U L D T R E A T Y O U R S E L F

brunch spots

?

Y O U

Recommendations

By Real People Rec #2

Rec #1

“Freddie G’s. One of the best steaks I ever had at brunch and I love the music selection.”

“Sweet Art - I like my vegan food to trick me and at Sweet Art they do just that. The chicken will absolutely fool ya.”

Address: 1435 Salisbury St, St. Louis, MO 63107

Address: 2203 S 39th St, St. Louis, MO 63110

Website: freddiegschickenandwaffles.com

Website: sweetartstl.com

Rec #3

Rec #4

“I’d have to go with Bricktops honestly.

Great service, chill atmosphere. The tequila sunrise mimosas *chefs kiss*.”

“Simply delicious. A black owned spot and I’ll just say this. Try the ‘Sticky Chicky’ and then come talk to me.”

Address: 10342 Clayton Rd, Frontenac, MO 63131

Address: 1115 Pine Street, St. Louis, MO 63101

Website: bricktops.com

Website: simplydeliciousstl.com

Only TWO THINGS can get you through this, man. That’s PATIENCE and PERSISTENCE. We all have the same emotions, you know? NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE or where you’re from. We all wanna BE SUCCESSFUL. We all have the SAME FEARS of failure. We all have these feelings of abandonment.

We all want LOVE. You have to have such a strong BELIEF IN YOURSELF that you can QUIET out all of the OUTSIDE NOISE because you’re going to need that every step of the way.

-JAY-Z

s, E. O

l

NEVER AGAIN SECOND GUESS WHERE YOU CAN SUPPORT BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES FOOD

STL TIKTOK

@Masterpieza @londonswingshouse @sugarwitch @simplydeliciousstl @BrickTopsstl

@tru_wag @sloading_42 @itisgabriellee @stlguide314

DRINKS

HEALTH

@moonrisehotel @360rooftopbar @TrustStl @Bpvstl

@thevillagepath @KoachGreen @_getfitwithp5_ @minorityhealthstl

B L A C K VOL 002

MEDIA @bradenstl @ninety4xo @_Authenticitytv @fortheculuturestl

PHOTOGRAPHY @96lilc @idunnomarty @capturedbyvidell @philip_hamer_photography @eyeovermatter

P A G E S

EST 2022

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED