THE LAB MAGAZINE - Vol. 4 Spring 2024

Artist and advocate Alonzo Davis talks legacy with the next generation of Gateway artists.

One great community art day

One great community art day + more events all week + more events all week

Free and open to the public.

Free and open to the public.

Over 250 participating artists along the Rt. 1 corridor.

The Gateway Arts District is home to talented artists in a multitude of disciplines, including sculpture, digital media, painting, glass, fashion, performance and more. Just outside of Washington DC in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

The DC region's largest one-day visual arts event!

THE LAB MAGAZINE/ SPRING 2024

The Lab is a professional home for creatives from around the DMV and beyond. The magazine was created to tell their stories, and shine a light on our community and collective impact. For more information, visit GatewayCDC.org.

GATEWAY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

MICHELLE DARDEN-LEE INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

AYOKA BLANDFORD WRITER/COPY EDITOR

WISDOM

Artist and advocate Alonzo Davis talks legacy with Gateway artists.

PROFILE: KEVIN THOMAS MALONE

Meet a dance luminary and global mentor.

MEMBER PROFILE: LOVENAFI

Meet filmmaker and physician, Lovenafi.

Introducing Jaidah Davis, the team’s new marketing coordinator.

What is the

The Gateway Media Arts Lab is a creative industries incubator located in Mount Rainier, MD. With a focus on culture, community and the greater good, the Lab helps media arts professionals and other creative entrepreneurs expand their businesses and refine their artistic visions. We have over 70 Lab members. Their products and services facilitate transformationthroughstorytelling,culture,artanddesign.

The Lab is a lead project of Gateway Community Development Corporation (CDC). Founded in 1997, Gateway CDC is a 501c(3) non-profit organization. Our mission is to drive economic revitalization along the U.S. Route 1 Corridor through business and neighborhood development initiatives including promotion of the arts as a community building strategy. Gateway CDC works within the communities of Brentwood, North Brentwood and Mount Rainier, MD and in collaboration with multiple partners to ensure the success of the entire GatewayArtsDistrict.

Dear Gateway Community:

Since assuming the role of interim executive director, it’s become evident that there’s a lot to learn as we enter our community’s next phase, and work to build for our future. As reported in our last issue, there have been structural changes within Gateway CDC. These changes prompted a hiatus in the publication of our magazine as we focused on strategic planning. But now, we’re back and eager to dive in!

There’s much I'm excited to share, but for now I’ll touch on a few highlights that I’m extremely proud of. Since this past fall we have: doubled our effort at obtaining new funding sources; hired two, part-time staff members, one dedicated to keeping you informed on Lab happenings and member activities; continued the STUDIO Lab project–Gateway’s effort to stabilize artists’ presence in the Gateway Arts District and address the affordable space issue; reached out and re-established connections with the towns of Brentwood, North Brentwood and the City of Mount Rainier on possible collaborations; created opportunities for the artist and business communities (see #DemGibsons on page 23); created partnerships with the Prince George’s County African American Museum, Neighborhood Design Center and NOBODY Properties to achieve better outcomes for Gateway communities; brought more robust programs and events -co-hosting an Urban Land Institute workshop, (more on page 29); collaborations on Black History Month celebrations, and a new recurring series with Red Dirt Studios and Joe’s Movement Emporium known as Joe’s Dirtie Lab (more on page 28).

Message from the Executive Director

I’ve been humbled by the outpouring of support, kind words, and well wishes that I’ve received.

And finally, thank you to those who through the years have given their time and energy to help bring Gateway CDC into this next phase.

Best, Michelle

Looking for ways to get involved? We welcome volunteers from the community to serve on our committees. Are you a part of the creative community? Consider joining us at the Lab.

WISDOM

Speaks

Alonzo Davis shares stories and lessons with a few of the Gateway’s next generation of arts leaders.

In addition to being a talented artist and advocate, Alonzo Davis has always been a teacher. He has taught in a series of high schools and colleges throughout his career, but much of his teaching happens outside of the classroom.

Through his advocacy and mentoring of Black artists, Davis changed the art world and continues to do so. During Black History Month, this outspoken octogenarian met with a small group of Gateway Arts District artists in his Brentwood studio to talk about legacy, responsibility and impact. This invitation-only event was hosted by Davis the teacher.

ABOUT ALONZO

Born February 2, 1942 in Tuskegee, Alabama, Alonzo Davis moved with his family to Los Angeles as a teen. Later he attended Pepperdine University earning a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts (BFA), but was disheartened by the program’s focus on white artists and wanted to learn more about Black art. After his graduation, he and his brother, Dale Brockman Davis, began a cross-country trip looking for and fellowshipping with Black artists.

Brockman Gallery was the first major gallery run by and for black artists.

In 1967, the brothers co-founded the Brockman Gallery in Los Angeles, California on Degnan Avenue in Leimert Park. The Gallery was a part of the community, supporting artists in many ways: providing studio space; hosting events such as neighborhood festivals, film festivals, talks, symposia and mural projects; and collaborating with other arts institutions.

Davis not only became an advocate for Black artists, he provided a platform for up-and-coming Black artists when there was no place for them: artists such as Romare Bearden, John Biggers, Elizabeth Catlett, Dan Concholar, Melvin Edwards, David Hammons, John Outterbridge and Charles White. Due to the support early in their careers, such artists became notables in twentieth century American art, influencing upand-coming artists.

Davis later returned to school to earn another BFA and a master’s degree in Fine Arts both from Otis Art Institute.

Best-known work: Eye on '84 to commemorate the 1984 Summer Olympics. Acrylic on concrete.

THE ARTIST’S RESPONSIBILITY

Art /ärt/ (noun): a diverse range of human activity focused on creating expressive work intended to be appreciated for its technical proficiency, beauty, emotional power or conceptual ideas.

But is it more? Some argue that art has a more significant role: to encourage discussion, to change hearts and minds or even to push political ideals. And further, what then is the role of the artist? Do they carry a responsibility in a world where life frequently imitates art and vice versa?

Alonzo Davis gave each artist a $100 bill that he kept from the sale of his first art piece. He views it as an investment into each of them.

The artists who attended the gathering with Alonzo Davis are: Dwayne Martin, Keiona Clark, Mignotae Kebede, Jessica Valoris, Selena Jackson, Jay Coleman (and his son), Lew Guy and Mansa “Twin” Johnson. Their art forms range from painting to digital art to cinema. We spoke to four artists about the private event, the impact and responsibility of art and the impact that they hope to make as artists.

LEW GUY

Lew is a visual artist who works in the art forms of drawing, painting and digital art. His art style is realism, but creates whatever he is feeling in the moment. When reflecting on the artist talk, Lew shared that Davis caused him to think about the importance of knowing who he is as an artist and developing his voice.

When asked about his personal impact as an artist, Lew wants to inspire others to channel their emotions into healthier outlets: “exploring their creativity instead of harming others or themselves.” His final thought was to show that art can be a profitable career and to break the stigma of the ‘starving artist’.

JESSICA VALROIS

“Alonzo Davis taught me that artwork is work. That it's important to understand the business and to value your worth. And once you get through, pay it forward.”

Mansa Johnson is a filmmaker who works primarily in documentary filmmaking, but also in creative filmmaking for branded content and music videos. His style is to express and protect the imagery of Black Americans and of the African diaspora.

“It made me understand and value my space in art and in film. I’m greatly appreciative and look forward to continuing the inspiration and inspiring the next.”

The intimacy of the talk allowed for the artists to hear about each others’ projects, which created a stronger bond. “I’m grateful for the time with Mr. Davis; I hope to continue the relationship and gain more gems to apply to my career.”

Mansa believes that artists have a responsibility to use GOD-given talent for the world. He believes that artists create a language and communicate without words. Regarding impact, his wish is to inspire others to pursue their art form and to be inspired by the viability of the art.

“I believe I have a responsibility as an artist to share, whether it be time, resource or outreach. I want to share my story just like Mr. Davis has and continue to inspire other artists.”

Selena “Noir” Jackson is a portrait and figurative artist who works primarily in oil paints. Her style is inspired by classical art techniques, drawing inspiration from John Singer Sargent, Diego Velazquez and Artemisia Gentileschi.

Her biggest takeaway from Davis is the fine balance of pushing yourself and your art, understanding that it is a lifelong commitment.

Jackson expressed the need to continue showing up for her community and to give back and provide support. Her current focus is to impact the youth by sharing knowledge and continuing to service communities whose art education is systemically underfunded.

DWAYNE MARTIN

KEIONA CLARK

Keiona Clark had a full heart, new energy, validation, and a wealth of knowledge after listening to Mr. Davis. A creator and fine artist, Keiona’s art forms include public art, murals, and painting and tend to lean towards portraiture. She also considers herself an Abstract Impressionist; such artists seek to capture the feeling or “essence” of a subject rather than its literal appearance.

She believes her responsibility as an artist is to continue to create and use that gift and passion to educate, inspire and to be a visual voice for the community. Her mission is to destroy the myth of the “starving artist”, by educating artists as well as the communities served.

“I know that I have a responsibility,” she explains. “We all have a story and a path; along our journey, we can choose to share with those who will take the knowledge and wisdom of our journey and plant the seeds responsibly.”

kevin Thomas malone

FOUNDING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

KEVIN THOMAS MALONE

Kevin Thomas Malone, a dance luminary from Washington, DC, has left an indelible mark on the global dance community. As the Founding Artistic Director of KTM Extremes Dance Projects and Artistic Advisor at the Dance Institute of Washington, Malone's influence extends far beyond the stage. Let's explore the journey of this remarkable artist and mentor.

Growing up in DC, Malone’s passion for dance blossomed at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts before he pursued a Bachelor’s degree at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts before pursued a Bachelor’s degree in modern dance from the University of the Arts. His training at prestigious institutions like the Ailey School shaped his versatile artistry.

From the Adrian Bolton Dance Company to the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange, Malone’s career took him worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a distinguished dancer. Alongside performing, he taught at renowned institutions, imparting his knowledge to aspiring dancers.

As a Founding Artistic Director of KTM Extremes Dance Project, Malone pushes artistic boundaries and mentors emerging talent. His choreography spans diverse styles, reflecting his commitment to artistic exploration and development. Malone's influence extends globally, from serving as Associate Artistic Director for the Bermuda Dance Company to guest teaching internationally. His choreography has graced stages worldwide, captivating audiences with its innovation and emotion. His legacy as a visionary and mentor will inspire generations of dancers to come.

FILMMAKER

LOVENAFI

LoveNafi is an award-winning filmmaker and full-time creative empowering her communities through the intersection of film and holistic wellness. The Prince George’s County native has over a decade of experience in film, producing three original docuseries and over 28 episodes of two original unscripted series.

LoveNafi’s passion doesn’t stop with film. She is also a board-certified family medical physician currently working part-time in medicine, a yoga instructor, a holistic health coach, and a fitness enthusiast. In 2021, she partnered with fellow creative Dr. Nadia Sasso for Release Retreat in LA– a one-day wellness retreat for creatives. Having experience in both medicine and the arts, LoveNafi is always thinking of how to empower her creative peers in refreshing and authentic ways.

LoveNafi is continuing to produce diverse and impactful art as a part of her sole mission to be an amazing filmmaker.

Her upbringing in the arts has called her into many disciplines, from dance to theatre and acting. She is a New York University (NYU) graduate, earning her B.A. in Youth development and Performing arts. LoveNafi’s hard work and dedication earned her the title of DCTV (District of Columbia Public Access Corporation) Member of the Year. She was named a semifinalist in Sony’s 2020 Rising Storyteller Search and has coproduced films that have been featured in the Pan African Film Festival as well as Martha’s Vinyard African American Film Festival.

Coming from a first-generation Nigerian household, LoveNafi’s roots run deep and have set the foundation for her creative goals. As a Pan-Africanist, she aims to unite Afro peoples from throughout the diaspora. Her show Shades The DMV highlights different people of Afro descent in the Prince George’s County area who are thriving in their creative endeavors. Bridging the gap is essential to her vision.

CEO & FOUNDER

NICHOLAS LONDON

CEO and Agency Founder Nicholas London is making a huge impact in the media world by helping people shape their legacies. London strategically crafts artists' curations and specializes in media for emerging professionals and business owners. There’s no doubt that Nicholas grows whatever space he plants his feet and his impact in The Lab is no different.

Nicholas is the visionary behind FTLA (For The Love of Art), a portfolio management agency for artists. Ranging over 12 disciplines, the agency helps artists acquire relevant knowledge and skills in their respective disciplines to develop and strengthen their portfolios. To be an effective artist, one must be both creative and innovative. With the guidance of FTLA, artists have the opportunity to expand their artistic horizons and evolve far beyond their imaginations.

As FTLA celebrates 18 months, Nicholas is seeing the fruits of his labor. In just the first quarter of the year, his team has already hosted three successful events, shot a podcast episode, hosted two film screenings and launched the “In The Lab” workshop series. All of these events have helped solidify FTLA. These experiences have set the bar high, motivating the team to continue pushing the envelope. FTLA’s success has only confirmed Nicholas’s evident leadership skills and growth as an entrepreneur.

This is only the beginning for Nicholas as he continues to operate in a leadership role with the Gateway Media Arts Lab team and across the DMV. Nicholas aims to become a Maryland-made man; by his definition that means weathering the storm and proving that the “crabs in a barrel” mentality doesn’t have to be our reality. “The reality is that it’s possible for us to expand outside of that.” We can grow together, and Nicholas London is the man to lead the way.

“You gotta go through it to get to it.”

#DemGibsons

Founded by siblings Christel and Howard Gibson, Dem Gibsons Films is an independent production company. It boasts of a diverse portfolio of titles geared for multi-platform release, and distribution in both domestic and foreign markets. Together, Christel and Howard have an impressive 30 years of experience in media production.

At the heart of Dem Gibsons Films is its dedicated producers and associates, each playing a pivotal role in the company's success. Executive Producers/Directors Christel and Howard Gibson spearhead the creative direction, while Director Gill Nelson brings his unique vision to the screen. Head Producers Shanté Gabriel and Tasha Coates ensure seamless production management, overseeing everything from casting to crew coordination.

The company also consists of a host of other talented staff required to make their productions come to life, including Producer Micah Tait, Associate Producer, Brian Burns, who cultivated the relationship between the company and the Gateway Media Arts Lab, Bernard Gibson and James Jamison.

And it’s a family affair! The familial ties within Dem Gibsons extend beyond the boardroom, with family members actively involved in various aspects of production. From the Gibson family patriarch building sets, to the younger generation’s starring roles, the Gibson relatives contribute their talents thereby bolstering the company's close-knit camaraderie.

#DemGibsons cont.

“Usually we film in Los Angeles, but now we’re bringing it home and that will mean bringing dollars into thecommunity.”

allblk Network

ALLBLK pronounced as "all-black" (ALLWAYSBLK in Canada and the Caribbean), formerly Urban Movie Channel (UMC), is a direct streaming service operated by the AMC Networks.

Formed by Robert L. Johnson, the founder of Black Entertainment Television, in November 2014, the service features original movies and television series aimed at African American audiences, including live stand-up performances, documentaries, reality series and stage plays.

For quite some time, Dem Gibsons team members were Lab regulars and the company held writing workshops that facilitated a connection between the two entities and with other members. Now Dem Gibsons is planning to play a pivotal role in supporting the Gateway Arts District's creative economy. “ Together, we aim to generate revenue for Gateway CDC as well as Gateway partners, and support artist projects that are in the pipeline,” says Michelle Lee, Gateway CDC Interim Executive Director.

Dem Gibsons made the Lab their home base for their most recent project, Conspirators. They shot in several locations within the Arts District. The Media Arts Lab’s gallery was transformed into a campaign office; and there were a few recognizable faces around that you will see in the upcoming series: Sean Blakemore (General Hospital, Greenleaf), Keith Robinson (This Christmas, Dreamgirls) and Simeon Daise (Snowfall, All American).

All of Dem Gibsons’ producers are born and raised in either DC or Prince George’s County. Head producer, Shanté Gabriel explained the significance of filming in the area. “Usually we film in Los Angeles, but now we’re bringing it home and that will mean bringing dollars into the community.” Double Cross, Dem Gibsons Films’ last project, had an annual spend of $1.2+ million per season which ran for four seasons on the allblk Network.

This recent project definitely left its imprint on local businesses. The production patronized local restaurants, venues such as Joe’s Movement Emporium, the old Penske site (utilizing their parking lot for staging); the local print shop to create props used in the series. “We are looking to build infrastructure for filming large projects in Prince George’s County, so that not only us, but others don’t have to head to LA or Atlanta,” says Gabriel. “It’s a win win for us all.”

MeetJaidahDavis

The Lab has a new Marketing Coordinator

Jaidah Davis, hailing from Trenton, New Jersey, ignited her passion for illustration at a tender age, transitioning to digital artistry during her time at Bowie State University. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Visual Communication and Digital Media Arts, Jaidah’s creative journey has seen her diversify her skills across various design platforms, including flyers, logos, brochures, and social media.

Beyond academic, Jaidah has invaluable experience in the industry, assuming roles as a public relations representative for entities like the Athletic Department for Bowie and Touch (Black Breast Cancer Business).

Her internship with the Gateway Media Arts Lab propelled Jaidah into the role of Marketing Coordinator, where she continues to flourish by acquiring new skills and techniques. Joining the Lab has further enriched her professional journey, providing a nurturing environment that cultivates her talents.

Jaidah Davis embodies the spirit of innovation, dedication and creativity within the realm of Advertising and Graphic Design. With her unwavering pursuit of excellence, Jaidah is poised to leave an enduring mark on the creative scene.

LOVE

The LAB Magazine’s contributing writer and DMV League of Artists’ member AyokaB.recentlypublishedher debut novel, Love At Second Sight. Describedbytheauthor as a “not romance” novel, it explores themes such as artistry, career, friendship, community and family in descriptive prose, layered with unforgettable characters that wewanttogettoknow.And,it is a love story which she promises is a great read for mentoo!

ThemaincharacterShaneisa pensive, Single Mother whose passion matches her ambition. Her life is full.. of poetry, motherhood and friends. Shaneiscarvingherpathand writing, always. Enter Mike, who is talented, complicated andguarded.Theirundeniable connection changes their hearts and lives. Love At Second Sight will make you laugh,cryandcheerand

at Second Sight

inspire you to rethink what it means to love. And it’s a page-turner!

“I’ve had people tell me that they are Shane. I’ve had people tell me that they are part of Shane’s friend group, you just don’t see them in the pages,” says Ayoka with a laugh. “I’m glad that people see themselves... it means they’re invested in the story.”

For an unforgettable first impression, Ayoka B.

collaborated with local artists. The gorgeous cover features customartbyartistandGateway family, Keiona Clark. The cover design is by another Marylandbased artist, Akesha Scott. To maintain editorial control of the project,shechosetoself-publish.

ThenovelwaspublishedonBlack Love Day which is the book’s overarchingtheme.“Thisisastory thatcelebrateslove,joy,andthe everyday moments. I hope that it causespeopletotalkandreflect withpeopletheylove.”

Whenaskedwhat’snext,AyokaB. saysshehasafewprojectsinthe worksincludingaseriesofpoetry books and a YA novel based in CostaRica.

Infused with music and poetry, Love At Second Sight features a playlistavailableonYouTube Music and Spotify. It is available in paperback and eBook versions aswellasonKindleUnlimited.To purchase the novel, visit linktr.ee/joyinhome

Through poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction, Ayoka B. explores the themes of Womanhood, identity,love,loss,andfamily.Hergoalasanartistis to share experiences through her unique lens as a Black woman. She seeks to tell the untold stories of mothers,sisters,daughters,friendsandwives.

CREATIVE ROUND UP

Joe’sDirtieLab.TheLab’spartnershipwith Joe’sMovementEmporiumandRedDirt Studios.

Your Inner Doll workshop with Sherri Lumpkin, founder of RagBaby Exchange.

CommunityscreeningofMy Brother’sJourney

Joe’s Dirtie Lab.

blackyouthintheheartofDistrict Columbia,highlightingtheir inherentbrillianceand resourcefulnessoften overshadowedbystereotypes.Itisa powerfulcollaborationbetween MigKebProductionsinassociation withLifePiecestoMasterpieces. Communitymembersjoinedusfor adiscussionwiththedirectorwho shinedaspotlightonthe transformativejourneyfrom adversitytoempowerment.

Joe’sDirtieLab.isamonthlyartist critiqueseminar.Itisacollaborationof Joe’sMovementEmporium,RedDirt StudioandTheGatewayMediaArtsLab. OriginatingfromtheRedDirt’smonthly FlexSeminarthatusesLizLehrman’s CriticalResponseProcess,joe’sdirtielab. isexcitedtoopenupthiscritiquetothe widerArtsDistrictcommunity.

Eachmonth,anartistreceivesanindepthcritique,oftheirwork-in-progress orabodyofwork,fromtheirpeers, collectorsandartenthusiasts.Artists includeeveryonefromvisualartiststo fashiondesigners,filmmakers,writers, graphicartistsandperformanceartists. Theultimategoalofjoe’sdirtielab.isto supporttheworkingartist,givecritical feedbackandserveasanhonestspace forcreatives.

COMMUNITY & CONNECTIONS

TheLaunchofJolieGelato

Jolie Gelato

BHM in Brentwood

Long-termLabResident,Rhett Butler,hasrecentlylaunchedhis nextventure,JolieGelato,LLC.This productwasbirthedinLasVegas butperfectedinMountRainier.The companymakesplant-basediced dessertssuchasgelatoandsorbet. Theyarefreeofmostallergenslike nutsandglutenandalsocholesterol freeandanimalfree.

Rhettwasinspiredtocreatethe productbyhislactoseintolerance andloveforicecream.Standout flavorsincludeRosewaterPistachio andCacaoPow!,amixofchocolate andcayennepepper.Thedessert artisanwillbecreatingcontentin TheLabtomarkettheproduct and willhosticecreamsocialsatThe Labduringthesummermonths.

TheTownofBrentwood hostedaBlackHistoryMonth brunchfeaturingJason Bullock.

ULI Workshop

TheArtsDistrictandPortTowns representatives,artistsandresidents cameoutonarainySaturdayto exploretheworldofurban development.TheUrbanPlanfor Communitiesworkshopfeaturedan exerciseencouragingcollaboration, connectionandthe conceptualizationoftheCityof Yorktown’sexcitingfuture.Hosted byULI,thisfreeeventwasheldat theGatewayMediaArtsLab fosteringeducationandcreativity.

Volta Avenue Studio

NOBODY Properties and The Neighborhood Design Center teamed with the Town of Brentwood and Gateway CDC to transform 4018 Volta Avenue into long-term artist studios and community event space.

4018 Volta Avenue

approximately 61,000+ SF unoccupied and unmaintained for 15 years

A community meeting was held on March 27 to discuss the Volta Avenue project and to hear from residents and artists. The project is being designed to position Prince George’s County as a cultural center in the Washington, DC region. The project will also provide below market rate studios for artists being priced out of the market.