This issue is a playful exploration of that delicate balance between momentum and mindfulness.
CRATERMOON PRODUCTION
a Maine-based production company known for its innovative music videos, short films, and ad work—is powered by the creative vision of its co-owners, Maxim and Uther.
KENNY K-SHOT
I want to build a legacy of fearless Rwandan men and women just like our heroes taught us.
2 4 1 E3
THE STARTING LINE
You’re doing great, give yourself some grace
DJ ELLIE
I am the I am that I am. A resource from the Source. A creator with gifts from none but the Creator.
5
GAMES AND FACTS
did you know about these facts? hmm cap enjoy some games and take the chance to relax your mind.
Safe.
CRATERMOON PRODUCTIONS; A MAINE-BASED PRODUCTION COMPANY KNOWN FOR ITS INNOVATIVE MUSIC VIDEOS, SHORT FILMS, AND AD WORK—IS POWERED BY THE CREATIVE VISION OF ITS COOWNERS, MAXIM AND UTHER. IN THIS EXTENSIVE CONVERSATION, THE TWO ARTISTS INTERVIEW EACH OTHER ABOUT THEIR CREATIVE PURPOSE, THE SPARK THAT IGNITED THEIR PASSION, THE CHALLENGES OF WORKING WITH LIMITED RESOURCES, AND THE TEAM DYNAMICS THAT KEEP THEIR ARTISTIC FIRE BURNING.
They began their day in a relaxed mood, greeting each other with genuine warmth. The casual “Ready? Nice to see you” sets the tone for an honest exchange about the meaning of creativity. For both, the heart of their work is not about flashy production values but about stirring feelings: Maxim reflects simply, “That’s what it’s all about,” while Uther explains his mission:
“I want to create stuff to make people feel something. I like to create feeling.” Their commitment to authenticity is evident as they discuss the gradual evolution of their artistic visions— from the uninhibited curiosity of childhood, fueled by shows like Avatar: The Last Airbender, to the electrifying energy of live concerts that sparked Uther’s passion for music.
The duo recalls the early days when budget constraints were a constant companion. With no money to spare, every project was a lesson in ingenuity. “We do have the structure now. We’re able to move forward. I think I finally got it,” Maxim remarks, capturing the breakthrough that came from working within limitations. Uther adds that
the lack of funds forced them to think outside the box: “You just have to be creative and push yourself a little bit in order to get out of the trap where you’re like, oh, I have no budget. I can’t do this.” Their resourcefulness—relying on a close-knit team of friends and making the most of limited equipment—became the catalyst for their growth as filmmakers.
"I DON'T WANT TO LOSE THE EXCITEMENT AND THE DRIVE THAT MAKES IT ALL FUN. THIS IS WHAT BRINGS ME JOY."
On set, the challenges of extreme conditions and physical strain provided both hardships and moments of dark humor. One scorching May day, the heat turned every filming session into a test of endurance. “I couldn’t stand, walk, sit down without pain... I had pins and needles through my whole leg,” Uther recalls, while Max laughs about repeatedly falling on the ground, a moment that,
Teamwork and communication emerge as the backbone of their journey. In a world where schedules clash and roles constantly shift, Maxime stresses the importance of genuine collaboration: “I don’t want to come off like a boss.
despite its discomfort, bonded the team together. These experiences underscore their belief that every setback is simply another step in the creative process.
Because we’re all friends outside of Creative Moon.” Uther echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that “communication is like the main thing too. Like making sure everybody’s on the same page.” Their shared vision for the future
involves not only pushing the boundaries of narrative storytelling but also nurturing a creative environment where every member grows—whether they’re directing, editing, or even learning the basics with an iPhone.
CRATERMOON
JUSTSAYF**K IT
THROUGHOUT THEIR CONVERSATION, THE RAW ENERGY AND UNYIELDING DETERMINATION OF MAXIM AND UTHER SHINE THROUGH. THEIR WORDS PAINT A PICTURE OF TWO CREATIVES WHO ARE UNAFRAID TO EMBRACE TRIAL AND ERROR, WHO UNDERSTAND THAT EVERY MOMENT—WHETHER BORN OF SUCCESS OR STRUGGLE—ADDS TO THE LARGER STORY OF CRATERMOON PRODUCTIONS.
CONTINUE TO CHALLENGE THEMSELVES TO “CREATE THINGS IN THE WAY [THEY] SEE IT” AND TO KEEP THAT YOUTHFUL SPARK ALIVE, NO MATTER THE OBSTACLES.
WITH DREAMS OF REFINING THEIR STORYTELLING AND EXPANDING THEIR CREATIVE HORIZONS, THEY
make sure you still enjoying life, don’t take it as serious. And just be curious,
KENNY K-SHOT
PHOTOGRAPHED
BY MICHAEL NZUNGIZE
“How has growing up in Kigali influenced your music, and what elements of Rwandan culture do you feel are most important to your sound?”
Growing up in Kigali has deeply shaped my music as in the evolution and development of the city, the energy, people’s vibes, the blends of slangs and traditional sounds with modern influences.
Nowadays I try to bring elements of Rwandan culture like rhythms,style, the language of Kinyarwanda into my music because that’s where I’m from, and it’s an essential part of who I am
“What was it about hip-hop that resonated with you, and how did you decide it was the perfect medium for expressing your truth?”
Hiphop is the most honest and rawest form of expression to me. Growing up I used to listen to hiphop and felt all the emotions the artist had put in there, almost as If I was the one that wrote it. At first I was interested in breakdancing but at 14 years old that’s when I decided to fully focus on writing raps and being serious about music cause it was the only way I could express myself fully.
KENNY K ~ SHOT
“What does success look like for you beyond the charts and radio play? Is there a message or impact you hope to leave on your audience?”
Success to me apart from selling records, is about creating something meaningful that connects with people on a deeper level . I want my music to inspire others to be unapologetically themselves, to chase their dreams, and to never let anyone tell they can’t . If I can make people feel understood or empowered, that’s success. And also
KENNY K-SHOT
“Looking ahead, what are some of your dreams or goals that keep you motivated, and how do you see your music evolving in the years to come?”
My ultimate dream is for my music reach people globally, to break barriers and represent my culture on a big stage. I see my music evolving as I grow, experimenting with new sounds, telling new stories, and collaborating with artists worldwide. I want to keep challenging myself and pushing the boundaries of what I can create.
“What advice would you give to young creatives who are trying to find their voice and make their mark, especially those coming from similar backgrounds?”
My advice is to never underestimate the power of your own story. You have something unique to offer. Trust in your voice, stay patient, and don’t be afraid to take risks. The road isn’t easy, but if you keep pushing and stay true to who you are, you’ll find your way.
Safe place.
REMEMBER, TAKE SOMETIME TO REFLECT, IT’S HOW YOU GROW.
KIVUMBI (LEFT)
KENNY KSHOT(RIGHT)
Laetitia Seguin
Sometimes Falling Can be A new Beginning Too.
GARNON
Nothing is scarier than avoiding your full
Crossword puzzle
USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO WRITE OUT THINGS YOU MIGHT WANNA DO IN THIS YEAR OR EVEN LATER ON. DO YOU BUCKET LIST!!!
BUCKETLIST?
DON’T FORGET TO BE GRATEFUL FOR WHAT YOU DO HAVE
Safe Place
TAKE YOUR TIME
DONE IS BETTER THAN PERFECT,
CAUSE PERFECT IS NEVER DONE
Perfection can be a sneaky saboteur—always whispering that your work isn’t good enough until you never finish anything at all. The truth is, done is infinitely better than perfect, because chasing perfection can feel like running on a treadmill that never stops. When you finally decide to put a bow on your project and share it with the world, you open the door to growth, creativity, and the sweet satisfaction of progress. Embracing a little imperfection means embracing life’s beautifully unpredictable twists, where every “mistake” is just another opportunity to learn and shine.
So, kick that paralyzing quest for perfection to the curb and celebrate the art of finishing what you start. When you choose to say “I’m done, and I’m proud,” you’re also saying goodbye to endless revisions and hello to new adventures. Life isn’t about crafting the perfect Instagram moment or the flawless masterpiece—it’s about the messy, colorful journey that makes you uniquely you. Embrace your quirks, laugh at your blunders, and remember: every completed step, no matter how imperfect, brings you closer to your dreams.
What inspired you to start DJing, and can you share a defining moment when you realized that this was the path you wanted to pursue?
I realized I wanted to start Djing when I found myself listening to music day in and day out. I do love music. If money wasn’t a thing and we didn’t have to work, i’d most likely be roaming around the world either dancing my music, mixing it or making it. I only get one life so I definitely wasn’t going to miss out on the chance of making the most out of it. And what’s better than following one’s true passion and building a career out of it.
How has the unique vibe of Portland, Maine influenced your music and creative process?
I’ve lived in four different cities around Maine throughout the seven years i’ve had here. Portland Maine is interesting. At first sight it can come off as calm and quiet but if you look closely, you can find the hidden gems in it. Just like Portland Maine, I don’t want my art to be perfect, I want my art to be itself with pretty nuances.
With the fast-paced changes in the music industry, how do you balance staying true to your creative vision while adapting to new trends?
If I have to play three songs, two of those songs will be true to my creative vision and who I am and one will be a trendy song. Life is all about ✨Balance✨.
Content Be
ELIORA BENERUGABA
* LET’S PLAY A GAME OF “MUSICAL TIME MACHINE.” IF YOU COULD TRANSPORT YOURSELF TO ANY ERA OF AFROBEAT OR ANY GERNE FOR THAT MATTER, WHERE WOULD YOU GO, AND WHO WOULD YOU LOVE TO JAM WITH?
IF I COULD TRAVEL TO A CERTAIN MUSICAL ERA. I WOULD DEFINITELY GO TO THE 90’S WHEN IT COMES TO RNB. AND THE 2000´S WHEN IT COMES TO AFROBEATS. AND I WOULD LOVE TO JAM WITH QUEEN B AND ZAHO (IF YOU KNOW YOU KNOW).
Let’s say you’re writing a letter to your future self. What piece of advice would you tuck away for the Ellie of tomorrow?
The first advice that comes to mind is to not limit myself whatsoever. Someone wise once said the sky is the limit and no one should tell you otherwise not even yourself Eliora.
Ellie
DID YOU KNOW
* Did you know your body loses up to 8 percent of water on a flight?
* Did you know the longest breath held underwater is 24:03 minutes?
* Did you know you can tell if an egg is old based on whether it floats in water?
* Did you know unless food is mixed with saliva you can’t taste it?
* Did you know you can’t tickle yourself?
* Did you know 85% of plant life is found in the ocean?
* Did you know that water might not be wet?
* Did you know You can actually die laughing?
* Did you know Snails have teeth?
Well, now you know!
EMBRACE YOUR STRENGTH, CELEBRATE YOUR UNIQUENESS
dreams DESIGNER OF
THE ART OF JUST SHOWIN UP
There is a quiet power in simply showing up. When you decide to be present—even if everything isn’t perfect—you open the door to growth and new opportunities. It’s not about having all the answers or knowing exactly what will happen; it’s about taking that step forward and trusting the process. Every time you show up, you build a little more confidence and momentum, proving that your presence is powerful. So, let go of the fear of not being ready, and remember that it’s always better to be there and try than to miss out on what could be your next great adventure.
SOLUTIONS
SOLUTIONS
SafePlace
SAFE PLACE
WHERE INSIPIRATION MEETS IMAGINATION: UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL
