PEPPER VOL. 1 / NO. 11
SA / TX / US
imagine the impossible.
PEPPER 7 Editor’s Note : IMAGINE THE IMPOSSIBLE
arts.
10 Time is Money : Stacey Lee Webber 19 e·phem·er·al : Jeremy Siedt 27 Tall Tales : Tennyson Corley 38 The Interpreters : Delta NA
business. 48 Blush Babe Co.
fashion.
59 Mood Ranch : Jeanette Shustack-Allred 64 Secret Garden : Britney Taryn 71 Watch Your Step : Jason X Photography 78 Modern Frontier Review : Michael Avila-Chrisntman, Doug Douglas & Calista Hatter
100 Style Diaries with Charity
habitat.
105 Storytelling • with Becky Witte-Marsh 114 The High Life / Highlight
savor.
117 SAVOR : Part Two.
culture.
125 Meredith OConnor 132 BLESS : Sibusiso Barnabas Shongwe 136 Sipho Lesihle x Thina Sobabili II : Sinenkosi Msomi 138 Humans of San Diego : Corey Layne Davenport
passport. 146 Tales of Spain by Seigar
Rx. 155 Fit to a T.
psych. 158 A Modern Mystic 162 Positively Crystal
PEPPER I S S U E
no.11 prodigy. 165 Becoming Sasha 172 Rising Star
lit.
179 Chiyo's Mirror 180 Awaken Our Future 181 Sunrise Dreaming 182 A Flicker in a Cheap Candle
138
get involved. 186 God’s Mercy Orphanage, Uganda
disquiet. 192 WOMAN LIFE FREEDOM 201 Union of the Impossible : My Description Keeps Me Safe
directory. 203 ICON : The Women of NASA 209 Cover Artist : Keely McLavin Acknowledgments Staff Bios
PEPPER Magazine Est. 2022 SA / TX / US arts • culture • business web directory msha.ke/peppermagazine website hellopepper.weebly.com email hello.pepper@outlook.com available on MagCloud Issuu copyright K. Day Gomez San Antonio, Texas 78209 PEPPER Magazine
•desjachanel.com • @desjachanel
Who is Seigar? Find him on IG: @jseigar
Meet the pop and conceptual artist behind My Plastic People.
PEPPER Magazine
EDITOR’S NOTE
IMAGINE THE IMPOSSIBLE.
Editor in Chief K. Day Gomez San Antonio, Texas
“The best revenge is to stop being “realistic” about what you’re capable of.” —Viola Davis I think I’ve lived my whole life imagining the impossible. I’ve seldom had one of my ‘crazy ideas‘ only to put on the brakes before accelerating full speed ahead. I’m more of a single-minded force when it comes to implementing even the most seemingly out of reach undertaking. The problem I encounter is the burn-out from the tunnel vision through which I pursue my great big ideas. The phrase, “learn when to rest, rather than to give up” has come to mind, even lately. But what about those times when the wall I hit has not been an internal one? I can look back at too many instances through my life where I remember flying high, doing my great big things (albeit learning as I go and maybe not the easiest way possible) only to be met with outside resistance. You know what I’m talking about here—the nay-saying, the unsolicited advice, the social commentary… When I think about how many times I’ve allowed the opinions and speculations of others to discourage me out of moving forward with my projects, it makes me very sad for the young woman I was. Could I fail? Sure. Was it always practical? Typically no, but that was the best part. Did it serve a niche audience vs. a wider populous? If it did, so what? Was it marketable? What‘s important is when you ARE the brand, not every single thing you put out needs to be “marketable”. In truth, for every seed of doubt, I could have swatted them down like flies. So why didn’t I?
I can offer many reasons; lack of confidence, codependency, wanting so badly to be liked and accepted even if it meant making myself small. And therein lies the common denominator—I fundamentally disagreed with the idea that every viable thing must be rooted in reality. Being on the spectrum or maybe just being an artist, my invisible line in the sand that denotes what is possible vs. impossible has always seemed to be a mile apart from where others perceive it to be. I let them get in my head. I let them tell me what was impossible, what was realistic. Of course, hindsight is 20/20. As a 41 year old creative entrepreneur, artist and activist, I can easily look back and see the true value in the things I was doing, the things I stepped away from when I should have pushed past the nay-saying. What matters is that the things I did see to fruition despite the doubts of others are not only successful, they’re magical and effective and truly seem to help a lot of people. When imagination turns to implementation, so long as your whole heart is in it, there is no ceiling you can’t break through.
“A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” —Lao Tzu 7
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A Gift For You
TIME IS
MONEY
TIME IS
MONEY
Artist Stacey Lee Webber Philadelphia, Pennsylvania journalist K. Day Gomez
I first happened upon American artist, Stacey Lee Webber via Instagram (thank you modern technology), and was immediately intrigued. Her work with currency is bold, brazen and rebellious— at times even a little controversial. Just my cup of tea. The more of her work I viewed, the greater my desire to learn who she is and where all these wild ideas come from. From jewelry and wearable art, usually made with coins, to functional art with moving parts—like a copper penny rifle— she’s highly prolific and a bit of a renaissance woman. My personal favorite has been her embroidery work onto paper currency. So that’s what we’ll focus on in this article.
ARTIST BIO Born in Indianapolis Indiana in 1982, Stacey Lee Webber received her Bachelor of Fine Arts at Ball State University in 2005. Webber went on to graduate school at the University of Wisconsin - Madison, where she was awarded a full time artist assistantship all three years of her degree program under her major professor, Lisa Gralnick. After earning a Master of Fine Arts in 2008 she went on to become an artist in residence at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago in 2009. In 2011 Webber moved to Philadelphia to pursue her dream of being a full time artist. After four bustling years of teaching at Tyler School of Art, University of the Arts and Rowan University while working as a production jeweler for a local jewelry company in Philadelphia, she made her dream come to fruition in 2015. Webber is currently working and living on the northeast side of Philadelphia where she has made a career of making and selling artwork and jewelry. Her work has been exhibited around the world, including the Cheongju International Craft Biennale in the Republic of Korea, Gallery Okariya in Tokyo, and Sophie Lachaert Gallery in Belgium. Her art has been curated into the permanent collections of The Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery in Washington DC, the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton Massachusetts, the art collection of Wells Fargo Bank, the Kamm Teapot Foundation collection, the University of Wisconsin Madison's School of Business and numerous private art collections around the world. As a contemporary artist, Webber cherishes working with found materials whose history is physically evident. Her work is 12
often described as meticulous, pushing the boundaries of everyday recognizable objects to the point of unidentifiable. Through material, she strives to make artwork that interests a broad range of viewers and challenges their preconceived notions of the objects that surround them. Webber’s sculpture is often painstakingly laborious which she uses as a continuous theme throughout her work. The pieces make the viewer question the value of her labor and the work ethic of blue collar America. Her practice incorporates a wide range of techniques including coin cutting, embroidery, metal fabrication, weaving and resin pouring. All of these techniques and more are used to declare the importance of the handmade while challenging these same systems. Webber’s objects are haunting celebrations of liberty and labor.
INTERVIEW Stacey’s interest in the type of art she makes now didn’t begin until her later teen years. “I was in college at the age of 19 when I first started taking art courses and being interested in the study of contemporary and historic art. I have been so fortunate to have always been supported by my
family in my art endeavors. And then when I met my husband, he also continued to support and encourage me. My family and husband's support has continued throughout my art career— relentless and endlessley loyal! Truly amazing!” Of course, I had to ask what inspires her to use real currency and embroidery as a medium? “I was in graduate school at the U. of Wisconsin pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in metalsmithing and jewelry and was encouraged to develop a body of artwork that was conceptual and thought provoking to a broad audience. I started to saw and solder pennies as an immediate way to conceptually make artwork which questioned the value of one's labor.” Now the metaphor is so clear! “By putting my own labor into the coins and paper money, the viewer had to instantly think about how much my own time is worth. This was the initial idea which got me interested in using the material of money as a medium.” We asked about her core themes and typical creative process. “I love to use tools as a theme due to my ideas surrounding labor. I often use tools as objects that I render as sculptures—taking away their function and viewing the tools as objects with history and meaning. Another theme I like to use in my embroidery is costumes. It is so playful to see revered figures on
money dressed up in funny outfits making them more human and everyday folks.” As pointed out in her bio, paper and coin currency is not the only medium she works with. “I have a series of artworks made with brass screws. The screws are forged and soldered into gorgeous industrial flowers composed into large bouquets. This series celebrated blue collar labor and middle America's work ethic.” We know Stacey has been exhibited all over the world. We asked where she hopes to live or travel in her professional life? “I currently live in Philadelphia, PA, USA. I love Philly. As an artist it is a great place for inspiration through the textures of the city, gritty people and relative location to other cities. NYC, DC, Boston, Baltimore, etc…I love being on America's east coast for the relentess spirit of people's hustle and fast way of life. I would love to travel more internationally—I love big cities. So London, Paris, Milan... I've had great experiences in Berlin and each time I get to see a different culture. But I will probably always call Philly my home.” For others considering a career in fine art,
Webber says, “my advice is go out there and do it. Stop waiting, stop over-thinking yourself. If you want to make a living on your art, try to sell it it. Half of my job is ideas and making and the other half is marketing and selling. It is all a creative venture that relies on new ideas and fast paced thinking. Have courage and confidence in yourself and listen with ears open to what is selling and what ideas are hitting hard and go from there. And lastly, surround yourself with people who ‘get it’. Don’t waste your time with people who don't get you and what you are trying to do.” That is so important. Even if that means certain family members—it’s better to care for someone from arm’s length if it means protecting your self perception and livelihood. Our readers can connect with Stacey Lee Webber and become patrons online. “I'm most active on social media on my Instagram account @staceyleewebber . You can also access my website at www.staceyleewebber.com which has my webshop of jewelry and objects available alonside my portfolio of past works.” We thoroughly recommend you take some time to check out those art archives. Her work is expansive, as prolific an artist as she is. It’s like going down a rabbit hole full of vibrant untamed paper, textiles, metal, humor, grit and passion for the arts!
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e·phem·er·al /əˈfem(ə)rəl/
Fine artist Jeremy Siedt is not your average abstract impressionist. This is largely in part due to the materials he uses to create his pieces. “In terms of metal, I use a lot of steel and copper in my work. I grind these metals down to create shavings and fine powders. Using the material in this state allows the metal to imbed itself into the canvas. I will use a variety of other metals as well in different forms—such as sheets to stain and create the composition.”
this factor in my studio practice. These paintings act as relics that express the impact and power nature has on our man-made materials. As we continue to value the creations of man, we often forget that nature inevitably wins the battle of time, in which we are then left to marvel in how nature reclaims the space and material it once owned. I find the beauty and importance in destruction and the rebirth that comes along with it. I aim to create
His raw, unbridled highly textural artwork is rich in color and highly emotive. Definitely moodsetting pieces that have the ability to transform any space they are placed in. Each one is unique as the mind that has birthed them.
the work “My work explores the boundaries and potential of these corrosive materials. I capture the color and movement that occur within the properties of individual elements as they break down. In terms of process, the metal is fixed and laid on a premade Masonite backing attached to the stretcher bars. Canvas is then stretched over this surface with the metal still supported and intact behind it. I begin to attack the surface with harsh repetitive motions using large squeegees, pallet knives, and additional metals. Eventually my vigorous, repetitive motions reveal themselves by staining the front of the canvas. Breaking these metals down with abrasion and different natural solutions (vinegar, salt, water) bring the corrosive property through the canvas as it breaks down and imbeds itself into the surface. I then remove the metal and backing all together and start the process again with just my body and tools on both sides of the canvas. Dry pigment is than used to further the complexity of the image along with different metals and other ephemeral material for texture, balance and movement. I refer to each layer and addition to a painting as an “activation”, because the material comes alive as it breaks down with each pass. Process and material is the most important aspect of my creative method. I am aware of the impermanence of these images, and embrace
work that amplifies and captures these moments and acts.” It’s safe to say Siedt has met his mark. Of his work, journalist Daniel Fortunado writes, “There is a tangible depth to Siedt’s paintings that I don’t often feel when viewing most nonrepresentational works. The palettes and textures that are chosen somehow are evocative of a feeling or vague setting almost immediately, and it doesn’t shift once locked in. It only cements itself further 21
the longer it is studied. These paintings are depictions of sentience, manifesting in hidden corners of the wilderness, holding congress on matters never to be known by human minds and never meant to be witnessed by human eyes. There are secrets being told here.”
interview Biographically, we’re taking it back to the beginning. “I honestly have always been drawn to expression in some capacity, especially mark making. This was not always the best outlet as I remember being very young and carving my name and designs in my grandparents antique furniture. Luckily for me they were always massively supportive of my creativity. I come from a very blue collared family and I wasn’t really considering pursuing a career in the arts until my high school art teacher told me in so many words “I could get paid to paint”. This opened my eyes to a whole new world. After my first portfolio review at FIT in New York, I knew this was the path for me. From that point on I formulated a plan and have been executing it ever since. My family is a huge part of my life and may not be a direct support in a traditional sense, but they are the absolute main source of my motivation and inspiration to create. My wife, children, brothers, close friends and parents all directly affect my work in the most positive fashion. I am very grateful and humbled to have them in my life.” On that note, Siedt opens up about some important peers and mentors who have touched his creative life up to this point. “A professor
during my undergraduate studies at Tyler School of Art, Larry Spaid, really opened my eyes to what painting truly is and its vast possibilities. Another amazing mentor I was fortunate to work with was Dove Bradshaw. I was able to work closely with her as she opened her connections, knowledge and amazing brilliance to me during my graduate studies at Philadelphia University of the Arts. Roberto Matta, a Chilean painter, inspired me to explore the expansive space a composition has to offer. Upon viewing his work for the first time my perception of painting was forever changed. Readings from Hans Hofmann, “Search for the Real” and James Elkins “What Painting Is” helped inform my view on process and creation. Many other artists such as Alberto Burri, Lee Bontecou, Raymond Hains, Otto Muehl, Jose Parla and Julie Mehretu have had an impact on my visual language as well. The list can go on as I really find investigating others work as an artist is a vital aspect of growth and understanding of your own practice.” This is a great wide world with so much culture and depth that has shaped Jeremy’s work thus far, and could serve him well in what comes next. He explains he was, “born and raised in Easton, Pennsylvania. Traveling was a big part of my younger years but my wife and I have settled into Pennsylvania as our home for ourselves and children, Maxwell and Nora. We hope to travel overseas and around the world with them as they grow and I pursue my Doctorate. My son has a huge appreciation for geography so we will all explore together and watch that grow.” As a global publication, we’ve been lucky enough to witness firsthand the level of enrichment and consequential empathy children develop in traveling family dynamics. What a beautiful life that 23
will prove to be. We hope to hear of some of Maxwell and Nora’s adventures as time goes by! As we always do, we asked about any good stories from Jeremy’s journey. “ Interestingly enough, I find the largest moments of impact have come at the most unexpecting times. Often we feel as if there is this grand epiphany and awakening of some sort, but I really find the beauty in the small moments of being present. I do however recall a moment sitting under a tree outside my apartment in Philadelphia early one fall morning. I was up working in my studio all night and decided to go out and decompress before trying to sleep for an hour or so, before I had to get back to work. While I was sitting 24
there listening to music, I found myself falling into a rhythm within my own breath, watching and feeling it. I felt everything being connected, having purpose and reason. I related it to my practice in painting—every moment, layer and act having a direct effect on the final outcome of the piece, successful or not. Like breathing, I wasn’t obsessed with my final breath but actually with each current one; as in painting, I should never be obsessed with the final outcome, but with each act within it and time it is in possession. This began my path down a more process-driven studio practice.” He has accumulated a wealth of experience along the way, which has now yielded wisdom
worth imparting. “As a professor of art, I am sure my students will say I have too much to say on this topic. However, I feel it is about a few simple elements : • Stay focused—never let anyone or anything move you too far from your path. • Work really hard and understand that this will pay off at some point and regardless of not knowing when that will be, just know that if you are persistent it will indeed come. • Finally, there will be a lot of “No’s” along the way. It’s par for the course. Just take these as opportunities; not missed ones, but ones to learn from and to propel you forward. There is no one direct path to take in a creative field. Just know that it’s part of you and you alone have to make your path, and this comes from you truthfully expressing yourself always.” As a final note, Jeremy graciously adds, “I would like to thank PEPPER Magazine for this opportunity and for all of those who will be reading this. Anyone who feels connected to these words or my work, please feel free to find my portfolio and contact information on my website at www.jsiedtpainting.com . Thank you again.” His impactful work can also be found on Instagram @jeremysi . We are truly grateful for Jeremy Siedt and artists who, like himself, enjoy the investigative process of journalism surrounding the work. For it is within such investigation that other creatives and enthusiasts are able to more deeply understand the underlying processes which may not be apparent upon first glimpsing the work. In short, it helps us to learn more about ourselves and how the mind works, in all its complicated glory. Those parts of ourselves that feel infinite, encased by what is so temporary.
the art of Tennyson Corley
I
t is uniquely exciting to present a most mischievous maker whose art takes on a life of its own, in the most imaginative way…
Tennyson Corley is a sculptor, or as she calls it, ‘ceramic illustrator’ residing in Columbia, South Carolina. Her practice explores the use of earthen clay as an illustrative tool to create creatures with carefully crafted backstories. Each a mixture of Beatrice Potter illustrations and an Orwellian Animal Farm character. Tennyson was raised by her mother, an illustrator, in the heart of South Carolina on a large horse stable. With her formative years spent in her own mother's studio, Tennyson was encouraged creatively and gained a lasting love for art.
ceramic illustrations “My childhood has led me to my current body of work. I am the product of an illustrator who chose books based on the beauty of the illustrations. I have continued this collection, referencing characters and ideas for my own work. I grew up surrounded by animals on our farm. Studying them, the ways animals interact and coexsist among each other, how species intermingled, the hierarchies that arose. I gave them personalities in my mind. Constructing back stories and human characteristics for each one. Fast forward to 2018, when I took my first pottery class which landed me with a membership at a pottery studio. I began to find what my artistic practice was craving. It took me back to my childhood, constructing animals out of playdoh and drying them on my shelf. In a full circle moment, I combined my love for childrens book illustrations, building back stories for the creatures around me, and moving from playdoh to clay to create what I call, my ceramic illustrations. Each sculpture is conceptualized in my mind, where I work out their features, back stories, faults, and qualities. Then, through my hands, they are birthed into life through earthen clay, underglazes, and the fire of the kiln.”
interview Tennyson’s early exposure to art via illustrations and her mother means that art has always been part of her life from the very beginning. “I don't think there was ever a moment in my life where I didn't feel drawn to art. I was raised by an artist, more specifically, an ilustrator, who provided me with the tools to create at a very young age. I loved playing with playdoh, but I was always too attached to put it back in the container, so my little creatures would dry on my shelves. As I got older, I was more drawn to drawing and painting. I experimented a lot. Always trying new mediums and techniques, though I never got a chance to try clay until 2018. I acquired a good amount of books on art and studied them. When my highschool days were coming to an end, I decided to go to college for art out of spite. My mother wanted me to be a doctor—I was thinking archaeologist, but I wasn't sure. I wanted to take a year off to decide, but my father (now estranged) said that was out of the question. So art school it was. But life has a way of giving you what you need. Halfway through my second year, I got meningitis and missed so much school while I was in the hospital that I had to take a medical leave. That's where my college career ended. For years, I continued to paint, showing here and there, figuring out life
and my path. I now have a family of my own. In 2018, I signed my son up for a clay class at a local ceramic studio and was
encouraged to take a class as well.
other times the story comes first.
I took a wheel throwing class. I sucked, but I loved it! The mud was therapuetic and calming. In 2019, I got a membership after a year of being wait-listed and continued to throw even though it wasn't advancing my art career. It was just for me.
Being a painter beforehand, I got asked a good bit, "what does this piece mean?" Now, I clearly state with my ceramic illustrations the information for the viewer, but I leave room for interpretation, like an open-ended story. I give them the creature to connect with and the back story. All cards are on the table and they can build a connection based on the animal, story, or both.
Cut to March 2021—on a whim, I sculpted these creatures and something just felt right. I gave them personalities and little stories. I coined them my ceramic illustrations.” And that was the beginning of something truly magic, as you can see in each piece here showcased. We asked how she comes up with her characters? “I think my art stems from wanting life to maintain a sense of childhood whimsy. I always imagined my pets talked when I wasn't around when I was little. That they had lives hidden from human kind. I obviously know that isn't true, but it is fun to think about—what would my dog be like in an anthropomorphic world? Who would she be, her likes, bad habits, etc.? There isn't any rhyme or reason to my cultivating of characters. Sometimes it is a lyric in a song. Other times it is a specific animal that inspires me. Sometimes it stems from ancient mythology. Certain times I will create a character and the story unfolds while I am creating it and
When I am lucky enough to have an opening to an in-person show, I love to stand back and watch as people linger over each piece as they take in the story. Sometimes you catch a conversation amongst strangers about a specific piece. When art can bring people together, I feel like I accomplished something.” All this incredible work is very much that— work. “My creative practice may just be a hot mess. Nothing is ever set in stone. I work when I can. But I work a lot. I have learned to adjust my mentality of what work looks like. For me, I need time to formulate what I will create and why, and sometimes I just sit with my thoughts. I tend to have most of my ideas hit while I am driving. I have a running list of ideas in the notes section of my phone. I keep a sketch book for more complex pieces. I also have a mental sketch book, that, until I birth the idea, stays put and eats up space. I do research on specific animals I am working on such as their habitats, habits, diets, ect. As for the actual, physical work, I choose to work at home. I have a membership at a local ceramic studio, but I only use it for the kiln. I am a very solitary artist and cannot fully immerse myself in my work when I am surrounded by other people (husband and son
excluded). Maybe it borders on the fact that I am fully self taught in my field of ceramics, but I have always found I do my best work when I am alone with my thoughts. I sculpt my creatures by using pinchpots so the figures are hollow. They have to dry for a day or two before I underglaze and then sit until they are ready to spend time in the kiln. I take anywhere between four to ten hours with each piece, between hand-building and glazing. In the end I build an attachment with each character.”
the storyteller So many inventive stories, but the one we’re most interested is that of Tennyson herself. Namely from her own creative journey… “I think one story that stands out is from early on in my career. Right after I left college, I booked a small show at a local coffee shop. (Gotta love a coffee shop and their support of emerging artists!) I exhibited a few pieces from my college portfolio. One being this piece that was part of an assignment of "seven pieces in seven days" that my drawing professor gave us. It was a woman, but over her body I used a marbled rice paper applied like a couture dress and created this almost fashion designer-esque piece. I loved it, but when I submitted it, my professor detested it. He "couldn't understand what I was trying to do." So this piece hung at the shop. I got a call a week later that a collector from New York had purchased it. I think it was my first real glimpse that people will love your work and people will hate your work, but as long as you love what you put out there...that's all that matters. Also, from my college days, the late Mary Gilkerson was a great mentor who I gained early on. She was my photography and painting professor. She 32
had a way of making me, and all of her students, feel valued. She was always in your corner. Years after college, when I was a new mother, she invited me back to painting class to sit in when I was able. She would check in from time to time. It was encouraging.” Inspiration strikes Tennyson organically. But she also finds herself inspired by other amazing creatives. “There are so many! My favorite artists are Andy Goldsworthy…I am in awe of the way he manipulates an environment that is often times fleeting. Sally Mann and her eerie photography. I watched a documentary while I was still in highschool about her and it changed my life. She owns her "weird". She photographed her deceased dog until it was nothing but a toenail and something about that is beautiful, but also taboo. My life long favorite artist, who really inspired me to want to be a sculptor, is Anna Hyatt Huntington. I actually chose a college where they had one of her sculptures (not an original, but it felt like a sign). When I was a child, we would visit her winter home, Atalaya, and Brooke Green Gardens were many of her sculptures stand. I was always blown away. She was a really strong female artist. She dominated the sculpting scene in New York in the early 20th century when it was mainly men.”
the characters The absolute stars of the show are undeniably her enigmatic characters. Like Hank Williams here, a caricature of her mother’s beloved dog. Hank’s backstory is more of a nonfiction—he made it through a rough time in the kiln and Tennyson whipped into repair mode in time for him to debut as a very important birthday gift. Happy birthday, mama! But it’s her tall tales that make for the best of adventures….
Flora Foxglove During the solitude of the pandemic, Flora Foxglove went down a wormhole on pinterest of cottagecore mood boards. Connecting to the "green witch" aesthetic, she took the sheltering in place to become her vision. Now she starts her day with the ritual of a slow drip coffee and tarot reading on her Alphonse Mucha deck. She can be found tending her medicinal herb garden, exploring thrift stores, and binge watching the Great British Baking Show.
Penelope Pugglesworth
Riff Raff Raccoon Riff Raff Raccoon lives on the fringes of society, in the most antiestablishment sort of way. He thrives off rummaging through trash cans and once made the most *chef's kiss* meal out of the Trader Joe's dumpster. He doesn't shy away from pan handling or
Penelope Pugglesworth never finished her dinner. She hated peas and brussel sprouts. She didn't care for freeze dried meats. Penelope Pugglesworth was solely invested in the sweetest of treats. Dreams of doughnuts and confections danced in her sleep. Her mother proclaimed,"If you don't eat the healthy foods there WILL BE NOT SWEET TREATS!"
34
But Penelope wasn't paying attention she was merely dreaming of being a delicious treat.
raiding a wishing fountain to score change for Four Lokos and King Cobras. His dirty little secret is he goes home to the burbs to have mommy wash his clothes while he listens to Beyoncé's new album in his cushy memory foam bed. Shhh...
"Monkey Brainz” Barnabus Baboon planned an elaborate solo trip to Vietnam to find himself. But all he found was a lot of grave misfortune. He had been dreaming of the limestone mountains, terraced rice fields, and delectable culinary treasures. But soon found himself in a back room gambling din in Ho Chi Minh playing Russian roulette with a Vietnamese restaurateur. The fates spoke and now he is the main culinary treat with a side of leek.
so the story goes… Tennyson shares, “I’m not sure where I want to end up. I have lived in South Carolina my whole life. I love our coast more than anything, but I'm not sure South Carolina is my forever home. I think when I visit the place that my roots are meant to be firmly planted, I will feel it. Until then it is a mystery! As far as travel for my career, I would literally go anywhere. I think it would lend so much inspiration to my work to go and experience the people, cultures, and creatures of other places. But I want to experience it authentically, not just the tourist hotspots. I would love to travel to Mexico, Chile, Nepal, Mongolia, India, the list goes on forever. I could see myself creating a series as a visual travel log of the different places I have been, inspired by the people, the culture, and the native flora and fauna.” That would make for some absolutely wonderful whimsical stories!
As a parting gift to other creators out there, Corley says, “I think for artists early on, it is important to explore and experiment. Try everything. Study artists, read books, watch documentaries, and keep taking random art classes. It is key to finding your path and your artistic voice. My best advice would to just keep putting yourself out there. Keep applying to shows, galleries, festivals, markets. Apply to it all, even if you don't feel ready. You will never "be" ready.” For those who wish to find Tennyson Corley and her magical work, “I am currently most active through Instagram under the name "Tennyson Corley Art"—@tennyson_corley_art . Patrons can find quick links to my currrent shows, website, media, and galleries in my bio and get early looks at new work and my process. My website, which is also updated regularly with current inventory and an option to recieve udates as an email subscriber is a great option too. Also, I am currently represented through The Shain Gallery in Charlotte, NC.” Look her up—your inner child will thank you.
interpreters the
Delta N.A. JOURNALIST K. DAY GOMEZ
Dreamscapes collide with the realities meandering through our subconscious in the enigmatic culmination of work produced be the art collaborative known as Delta N.A. “Delta N.A.'s dialogue with infinite dimensions brings on canvas a marvelous whisper of naturally blended real and supernatural, showing a universe in constant evolution where charming hues and unexpected overlapping figures, reveal deep significances that strike straight to the heart. Present in many private and public collections, Delta N.A.'s art has been exhibited in personal and group shows in galleries and museums all around Europe, the USA and Asia.”
About the Collaborators Artists Neva Epoque and Alessandro Vignola make up the collaborative, Delta N.A. From their very organic beginnings, the pair realized the marriage of their two art styles through portraits, working together in unison on the same canvas.
“This path of artistic union has allowed the couple to develop a common expressive language through which to explore and describe their vision.” Neva and Alessandro are partners both in art and in life. Together, they work simultaneously on each piece, developing what they call “a shared language”. Through this intimately connected process, the finished works reveal deeper meanings which seem to speak directly to the heart. Not unlike cave drawings to early Impressionism to Rorschach test paintings, the figures are timeless and easily recognizable, melding together in a primordial soup-ish menagerie. Upon fruition of each piece, underlying stories seem to develop. “The figures and forms are placed in a subtle and ethereal space halfway between dream and reality and where the soft flow of emotions and intuitions collects the sense of a free and introspective existence.” As a collaborative, the pair who form Delta N.A. have traveled for years discovering the world around them, being touched and influenced by it. Their collective identity has been intrinsically 39
shaped by these experiences in foreign countries and the consequential cultural interactions therein. This nomadic lifestyle has clearly marked their technical development as is evident in their artistic expression, which they say “combines poetry and strength in a constant search for harmony, portraying the infinite dream of a total and exhaustive well-being.” Their work is viewable in numerous public and private collections. They have been exhibited in both solo and group showcases across Europe, the US and Asia.
In their Words “When we met, we fell madly in love,” they shared with us. “The desire to be together at all times led us to paint side by side every day in a small studio that we had rented in our city. It was like a dream to have the possibility of painting all day side by side. We were often loosing the sense of time, realizing that it was late at night outside. So we would walk home through the deserted streets in the cold winter nights of northern Italy.” Theirs is as much a story of romance as it is of partnership in art. The two would learn early on, however, that their fondness for creating didn’t mean they were the same. “Soon we realized that we were painting differently because we saw the world differently. Our two visions were compatible, but developed with different points of view. We were both surprised from the point of view of the other. It fascinated us. When we were only three days away from our wedding, a collector who had heard of us came to the studio and commissioned a very large piece.” At the time, they could not have known that this would be the breakthrough experience that would forge Delta N.A. into its own unique animal, if you will. “The only way to finish it before we left for our honeymoon trip was to paint simultaneously on the same canvas, trying to see if these two worldviews could turn into something unique. The first experiment was surprising to us. We felt
a vibrant energy while painting. From that moment, we did not stop painting simultaneously. We’d discovered that surprise and the unexpected are the most fascinating things in life that attract us—like a light in the dark, guiding to unknown and unimaginable places.” They’ve since built a career from storytelling around these unimaginable places while marrying real world figures and themes. This would also mark the beginning of their traveling life. “So we set off on our honeymoon with our new art, eager to grow and discover new stimuli in the world. We stayed around for almost two years, living in the most unknown places in South America, in the Mexican art cities and in the great metropolises of the North America—New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles. We immersed ourselves in colors and shapes, oscillating between the abstract and the figurative expression, without having a center of gravity to stop us in a precise position. This long and wonderful journey greatly enriched the knowledge of ourselves and of international contemporary art. It took a few more years to let our expression find its stability and its harmony.” As ever, we are interested in the technical aspects of their process. “During the creative process, we follow our heart into a dreamy world where we can run at bridle loose. Art shapes our movements and choices, opening a new door of perception. It shows us a reality where time is no longer linear and past, present and future coexist into one fragment of life. Overlapping figures, places and emotions leave a marginal footprint over time. And like guests passing through and then vanishing, their presence on earth turns into a memory halfway between dream and reality. Many ask us if we would now be able to paint individually. The answer is that we would miss the spontaneity
and magic that surprise our eyes and cheer our hearts.”
The Journey Beginning in 2008, they lent themselves to numerous solo and group exhibitions spanning from Italy to South America, then by 2010, embarking to the US. They showcased their art, joining the contemporary scene taking part in multiple exhibitions with Norbertellen Gallery and Boa Art Gallery (based in LA, California). “After this initial confrontation with the American art world, the artists choose to devote themselves exclusively to the search for new forms of expression until developing an innovative technique of painting with bare hands defined as "Instinctive Expressionism" (El Lunario Gallery, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico 2012).” What they produced from 2012 to 2014 was in their words based around “the lightness of a harmonious universe where the humanity of feelings and the immensity of spirit emerge in a dance of colors and lines collected in floral compositions.” That series which first exhibited at Soho Gallery Beverly Hills in collaboration with 44
the Italian Cultural Institute of Los Angeles, California and CATM New York Agency—then in Italy, at Die Mauer Contemporary—has since been awarded on the basis of Quality and Originality at the V Biennale of Genoa. They were also presented with the Jury Award at the Satura Prize 2013. By the end of 2014, Delta N.A. revealed a new expressive form through their series "Harmonies", in which the subjects, which were previously easily recognizable “lost their boundaries, dissolving themselves in the diffused light of an infinite space, in a continuous search for a perfect union between the immensity of destiny and fragmented daily life.” In 2015, French gallery Beddington Fine Art in collaboration with CATM New York Agency organized a solo exhibition—"Revelations"— showcasing Delta N.A. With the sculpture from which this exhibition took its name, Neva and Alessandro began to explore the relationship between man and the Universe, in their words, “through an essential abstract language whose rigorous features describe a more complex theory on the perception of reality called "Existential Mechanics".” The two would continue to hone their separate skills into one definable message, taking their work and making new work everywhere they went. From
country to country, city to city, across continents, going where they would learn most and could easily exhibit their work. Eventually, a ‘new creative wave’ brought them to “intensify their artistic research with a more complex expression setting itself in the middle between abstract and figurative, introducing the themes of nature and the positive message that its harmony can give; of the coexistence of opposites, the complexity of the human path and its awareness.” With the most recent series of artworks they released, the collaborative won the Rose Warner Prize for visual art in 2022 at St. Scholastica University. They introduced their body of work to South Africa with AITY Gallery, Cape Town and have been featured in many international art magazines over the course of their career. Later, their artwork “First Sun” was exhibited at the Waldorf Astoria of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates as part of a Selected artists preview of the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Art Festival which took place in 2023.
Connection Our global readers can find the collective works of Delta N.A. online via their website, www.dnartists.com . They can be contacted directly on Instagram @delta_na and are open to engagement with fans, potential patrons and academics. We are happy to have been discovered by the two artists naturally. “We recently discovered PEPPER Magazine while reading the beautiful article on (Canadian artist) Ramona Nordal.” It goes to show the connective power of art and authentic storytelling. Both of which we are 100% here for. Many thanks to artists Neva Epoque and Alessandro Vignola for making the time to share their story and work with us. It’s probably the most romantic we’ve ever told.
Melanie Allison MELANIEALLISONGALLERY.COM
San Antonio, Texas journalist K. Day Gomez lead photographer Mandy Kadura
Blush Babe Co. We’d like to introduce our readers to entrepreneur, internationally published model, runway model and COO of Blush Babe Co., Caitalina Cochran.
About Blush Babe Ashley Huck started Blush Babe Co in March of 2022 because she noticed there was a lack on affordable women’s clothing on online boutiques. She wanted to create a brand that made women feel empowered, sexy, and still maintain their style whether that be a cute tshirt, a dressy top to go out for a date night, or a dress that accentuates your curves. Caitalina saw Ashley’s vision and joined the team as an investing partner in August of 2022. Cait really wanted to shake up the “standard of fashion” and “boutique ownership” by creating their mission statement, “empowered women, empower women.” Cait and Ashley truly believe in diversity, equality and inclusion. The duo has partnered with two Latina owned businesses this past year, only work with POC photographers, and always make sure to cast 50-75% women of color for their runway shows. The brand is socially conscientious, uplifting and highly driven. Aside from providing gorgeous wardrobe, they also aid in personal styling, providing expert guidance for their shoppers at the local level.
Who is Caitalina We are honored to have had the opportunity to interview Caitalina Cochran and thankful that she has vulnerably shared her story with us. A trigger warning for those who are sensitive about matters involving sexual assault is necessary before proceeding. “Honestly, I was not drawn to fashion until 28 years old. After my near-death beating and rape in April of 2022, I lost 60 pounds in less than 6 months. I needed affordable, unique clothing
to fill my closet and feel worthy again. Feeling confident or beautiful is difficult after seeing your whole body bruised and feeling ashamed.” The psychological fallout Caitalina describes is common for sexual assault victims of any gender or age during the aftermath of such violence. Along with PTSD, depression and anxiety, body dysmorphia and diminished self worth are syndromes we must come to terms with before healing can begin. Caitalina found a soft aid in her new body image through clothes that made her feel beautiful. We asked about family support in her pursuit of modeling and the fashion fashion industry? “I am not close with my family, but my friends have all been supportive and are constantly amazed at my speed of success.” On that note, she gives us more insight into the backstory of Blush Babe. “Blush Babe Co. was created in February of 2022 by Ashley Huck. I stumbled across the Blush Babe Tiktok in June of 2022 and contacted the owner. I started out as an influencer for the brand because I believed in the owner’s mission. I really was never one for fashion, but the clothes made me feel confident and beautiful. Something told me I needed to be a part of this company, so I flew out to meet Ashley. I told Ashley they could be more than a clothing line and motivational brand. They could create an environment and community. As a team, we have created the community that we dreamed of, and an example of this is the dozens of encouraging messages we receive from women all over the United States.” 49
BB Co. is curated fashion in an online boutique setting, with pop-up capabilities. “We curate and sample all outfits before we make a full order purchase.” As for the community Cochran spoke about, we came to learn how intricately connected she is with various women’s business organizations. We asked why it’s important and some of her favorite things about it? “I feel that as women, we are often pushed into stereotypical roles, and as a neurodivergent person, I do not fit those roles. I think on some level, some are outdated. We are strong, and even stronger together. I have had to work twice as hard for everything I have. Nothing was ever given to me. I put myself through business school and grew in an international company at a rapid rate due to my dedication and perseverance. I now work hard to ensure that models of every size and color are represented fairly and get the same opportunities in the San Antonio Model Scene. My current goal is to inspire other brands to hire at least 50% of their team with qualified people of color. As a neurodivergent person, I would like to see more charitable events for women to network at. I have noticed some of the “Women 50
Business Groups” are for profit, and I do not necessarily agree. We all have different experience and skills and should be able to share and mingle without paying a fee to do so. I love seeing women succeed. We honestly have a lot to lose, but even more to gain by succeeding.” These are all important and noble pursuits. As a neurodivergent-led publication, we are thrilled to see Caitalina succeeding and thriving in her niche and look forward to witnessing the strides she makes in the socioeconomic climate within these goals. Part of her determination to build and nourish a strong community comes from having to go it alone from the beginning—a stigma not uncommon for those of us on the spectrum. And yet, she’s never allowed herself a moment of self pity. Rather, she has used it as fuel to maintain selfmotivation and determination. “I am 11 years sober and I have done everything on my own. I am published because I reached out to editors. I’m in runways because I auditioned. I never had an agency or person hold my hand or do it for me. I did it for me and I’m proud of that.” For Caitalina, hers is more than just an inspirational story—this is HER story, her trials overcome. To others interested in pursuing careers in entrepreneurship, fashion or modeling, Cait says,
“If you have a dream, go for it. What is the worst that could happen? You fail? But what if you fly? You’ll never know if you let fear hold you back.” For those interested in connecting with Cait online and shopping the online Blush Babe Co. boutique— Website : blushbabeco.com Instagram: @chaos_withcaital ina & @blushbabeco_ Facebook: facebook.com/Blu shBabeCo22 A special thank you to Caitalina Cochran for being open and authentic with us and the bravery it took to share her experience. If you or a loved one is a victim of sexual assault and residing in the US, you can reach the National Sexual Assault hotline 24 hours to be routed to a trained professional within your area. 1-800-656-4673 For our global readers, please seek assistance online for networks within your area. No one should have to face it alone. 52
Community On the note of being an active community member, Caitalina wanted to highlight an amazing local initiative, SA Creatives, who go above and beyond to connect creatives within the San Antonio and surrounding areas at no cost to the participants.
“BRINGING COMMUNITY TOGETHER THROUGH ART. WE HELP THE CREATIVE TO GROW IN THEIR ART SO THEY IMPACT OUR CITY IN A DIVERSE WAY.” The SA Creatives initiative is centered around its mission statement—“We strive to build up artists and encourage them through community. Our purpose is that we begin to disrupt the normalcy of what a creative looks like by giving power to collaboration.” Cait has called forth several of the photographers she’s met and worked with at some of the creative meetups to showcase what that looks like. You can find SA Creatives on Instagram @sa.creatives and visit their website to get involved!
Participating in this SA Creatives photo series and whose exceptional work has been showcased here are photographers Chris Cantoya, David Silva, Jonas Adoe, Josh Mossembekker, Julian Benavides & Richard Strout / 2022 / San Antonio, Texas
DARK P H O T O G R A P H E R
M I C H A E L
A V I L A
C H R I S T M A N
@DARKHORSEPHOTOGRAPHYSA
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M O O D RANCH PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
PHOTOGRAPHER JEANETTE SHUSTACK-ALLRED WITH MODEL SHEKINAH DAVIS SERVES SOME PLUCKY VINTAGE LOOKS BY STYLIST AUBRIE NADER, ASSISTED BY KYLE ALLRED
Secret Grarden
VENTURE INTO THE MAJESTIC SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDENS
photographer Josh Mossembekker with model Britney Taryn
WATCH YOUR STEP PHOTOGRAPHER JASON X. HUDSON STYLIST KAIA DUBLIN MODEL SUMMER KEWISKI LUXE LOFT MODEL AGENCY SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS
MODERN FRONTIER
STYLE REVIEW
1
Janiece
San Antonio, Texas
photographer Michael Avila Christman Darkhorse Photography model Janiece Ivory
STYLE
REVIEW
2Kelsi Austin, Texas
photographer Doug Douglas model Kelsi Wofford agency DX2 Model Management
STYLE
REVIEW
3
Woodstock, Virginia
Priscilla
photographer Calista Hatter model Priscilla Bussey
K. Day Gomez @artist.kday artistkday.weebly.com
ART+PRINTS
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Charity STYLE DIARIES WITH
fashion.
Style Consultant Charity Stewart San Antonio, Texas
SPRING IS HERE
Spring is Here!!! Spring is one of my favorite seasons for fashion because color is being reintroduced. And though it is my favorite season, it can get confusing because one day the sun will be out shining so bright and you can wear your regular crop top with pants. Then the next day it's cloudy and you have to wear your raincoat with light layers underneath. I believe it's the season to really experiment which is why all three of my looks are completely different.
STEWART
EMMA CHAMBERLAIN I called this look Emma Chamberlain because it was inspired by her streetwear style. Emma is an internet personality and model. She is known for her tomboy style. I am a girly girl but every now and then I like to dress masculine. For this look I wanted to build everything around the baggy denim shorts. When I wear these shorts I'm reminded of the 90’s hip hop rappers era. I wanted to add femininity back into my look so I added a white Guns & Roses crop top with short sleeve button up embroidered flowers on it.
Loafers aren’t the most attractive footwear and it wasn’t until recently that I gained interest in them, so if it doesn’t fit your personality you can always do a classic sneaker— preferably an old school sneaker.
SIDE NOTE
Emma’s style has a lot of classic pieces so I chose to finish my outfit with a vintage polo cap with loafers and white ruffle socks which is her signature look.
For all the label-lovers out there, you can still find high end treasures while thrifting to be sustainable. Saving the Earth looks good on you!
SHE’S SPRING This is the perfect outfit for a picnic, brunch, or just a nice day strolling through the city. If we had to name one of these three looks as a classic spring look, I would say this is the one. I wanted a light weight look that felt airy. I thrifted this beautiful pink halter top with 3D flowers on them along with this flowy skirt. When I think of spring, I think of pastel colors and outfits that flow with the wind. I specifically chose a mid/long skirt instead of a short/mini skirt because I think miniskirts are better in the summer. If it is windy and gets cool you can add a light weight cardigan. To add more dimension to this look, I added a brown belt. I have been seeing this trend recently and I'm in love with it. High waist skirts and pants have been the most popular 101
style when it comes to women’s bottoms but in the last year I see the late 90’s early 2000’s low rise bottoms coming back. If I'm being honest, the low rise bottoms haven't always been my favorite style because I believe it was only made for one body type. While high waisted bottoms were made for all types. This thought brought me to a realization that no matter what the style of clothing is we ALL can rock it. Confidence in oneself can make anything look good.
CAT WOMAN I call this look Cat Woman for so many reasons. CatWoman was strong, fierce, sexy, classy and risky. I say risky because I chose two different animal prints and two different color pallets. Sometimes that can be a big no no, but I believe it works better when the colors are neutral. When I said strong I was referring to my jacket with the padded shoulders. When I said sexy I was referring to my black leather pants. I feel like every time I wear anything leather it elevates the entire outfit. And when I said classy I was referring to my pointed heel. Open toe heels are more relaxed and flirty while pointed heels are more business-like and serious. Which is perfect because Cat Woman was serious and took care of business. Okay—to finish off my Cat Woman themed outfit, I added a dramatic thick winged eyeliner.
WRAP UP
We are saying goodbye to Winter and Hello to Spring. Even though we are putting our big coats back in our storage closets, don't forget to leave out your light weight jackets and cardigans for windy Spring days. Most people love the holiday season but I find that it can be dark and cold sometimes. Psychologists have found that different colors have a direct effect on our moods. So, for all my wearing black and dark color lovers, let's try to add a bit of color to our wardrobes this Spring. In all seriousness our world needs a little more light.
sustainable fashion & decor
Sustainable fashion & lifestyle expert Becky Witte-Marsh with partner, designer & stylist Amanda Alarcón-Hunter
Their story begins many, many moons ago when Amanda owned a local consignment store and Becky popped in to consign some of her styling clients’ clothing. The pair hit it off immediately and soon became the Sustainable Fashion Sisters they are today. With so many wild ideas and a love for fashion, the pair started hosting fashion shows in Amanda’s boutique, in the parking lot—anywhere they could. These Sustainable Fashion Sisters stayed connected through corporate career changes, boyfriends who became husbands and kids who finally grew up! Over time, their fashion and styling vision took on a more curated, avant garde sensibility, creating drama in every aspect of their shows, their homes, their parties and their own personal style. When “Untamable, The Sustainable Fashion Show” hit the runway in the Spring of 2022, friends and strangers alike demanded more from this stylistic duo—hence AB Event Designers was born in late 2022. Although Amanda and Becky have more than five decades of styling experience between them and had been producing fashion shows for years, the vision for AB Event Designers was just coming to fruition. Then, a dream came true! AB EventDesigners was awarded a grand opportunity to work for the local chapter of an international organization called I.L.E.A. The event was their annual awards ceremony called The Antonian Awards. In cooperation with I.L.E.A. members and their teams, Amanda and Becky created an avant garde fashion show inspired by New York City in the Spring.
The team began to weave a story of inspiration from the many beautiful and artistic elements that make up the New York City landscape and lifestyle. For Amanda and Becky, fashion shows are like temporary art installations, moving in minutes and seconds of time. Telling the story of the artistic grandeur of New York City in those minutes and seconds, required attention to detail, elements of drama and theatrical conveyance of the story.
The Story… This story of NYC took its sight-seeing companions through Central Park during a spring rain.
…Through China Town during a Chinese New Year celebration. [above] Through MOMA celebrating all the famous paintings and architecture. [below & next page]
Through the Theater District with the sparkle of the Broadway lights.
Through the fashion district with its’ many designers…
…To the Opera. [above] To the New York City Ballet… [below & next page]
To the Twin Towers—lives lost and the resurrection of NYC were remembered in these vintage NYC umbrellas. Even the model casting represented the melting pot that is NYC in all of its diverse glory! The Big Apple story told one bite at a time!
What’s next? So, what comes next in the storyline for AB Event Designers? With Unique Eyes for Unique Events as their motto, Amanda Alarcon-Hunter and Becky Witte-Marsh are offering their Sustainable Styling services in planning and designing fashion shoots, exclusive parties and private soirees, tented events, magazine launches and of course, Fashion Shows. Look for their sustainable fashions and jewelry designs as well. Anything goes with AB Event Designers! Get tickets through the link in their Instagram bio @ab_eventdesigners to their “For Your Eyes Only”, AB Event Designers official launch party and fashion show on May 13, 2023. Let them help you tell your unique story! You can also email abeventdesigners@gmail.com and contact Amanda Alarcón-Hunter at 210-367-7080 or Becky Witte-Marsh at 210-844-6122.
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Corey Layne Photography Austin, TX coreylaynephotography.com • @coreylaynephoto
HIGH LIFE/HIGHLIGHT THE
PEPPER
WITH LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR JOE A. GOMEZ III Spring has arrived and the intense golf season is yet again right upon us.
LIKE THE
PROS With The Masters already in the books and The U.S. Open, The Open, and The PGA Championship right around the corner, it’s time to take a look at some of my favorite looks and gear.
THE LOOK Monochrome on the links is always in fashion. Personally, I like to stay within the classic neutrals—black, white, gray.
We all know skills and confidence are not the only traits that set an exceptional golfer apart. —Maybe it’s just me— Well, the kind of apparel matters; and as a matter of fact…it matters a lot.
FROM THE TOP • the rain gear: Taylor Made Excursionist rain sweater $348.00
• the pants: LOUIS VUITTON cigarette pants $1,090.00
• the shirt: PRADA zip active golf shirt $1,120.00
• the shoes: NIKE Air Jordan 12 golf shoes $220.00
• the watch: Richard Mille RM 38-01 TOURBILLON BUBBA WATSON $9,715.00
The best
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TO BOTTOM
habitat. BUILDING TRADITIONS
THE GEAR •the club: TAYLOR MADE STEALTH GLORIE DRIVER $679.00 • the bag: G/FORE DISTORTED CHECK TOUR STAFF BAG $800.00
State of the art
Sharing what you love to do and bonding over shared activities is a beautiful thing. Whether it be with friends, life partners, colleagues or family members, it becomes more than a hobby. You’re building priceless memories. And if you have kids and are able to share it with them, it can also build patience, problem solving skills and character.
”Success in this game depends less on strength of body than strength of mind and character.”
n My son, Aide
— Arnold Palmer 115
NOVEM Cuisine
GOURMET IN-HOME & EVENT DINING
NOVEMCUISINE.weebly.com
@novem.cuisine
(512)965-3383
SA
FOOD TOUR 2 0 2 3
P a r t
The most eclectic assortment of eateries & food vendors in St. Anthony.
T w o .
photojournalist K. Day Gomez
It’s undeniable—the culinary culture of San Antonio, Texas is unlike anywhere else on earth. And contrary to popular stereotyping, you’ll find more here than the world’s best tacos (you’re welcome). The fare here is as eclectic as the cultures of which our beautiful city is comprised— from Latin to Romanian, Ethiopian to Thai, French to Brazilian, German to Jamaican…we’re as allAmerican as you can get! This melting pot of cultural influence makes us a foodie paradise! These are 10 more of our own top favorites on account of flavor, atmosphere, authenticity or all around great staff and vibes. No particular first or second place or what-not; every one is worth a visit! Let us show you around town…
THE HAYDEN Our personal favorite deli is The Hayden, “A classic Jewish delicatessen with a charming South Texas vibe.” You can find PEPPER staff there pretty frequently. Owner Adam Lampinstein says, “We want to serve you delicious food and deliver authentic hospitality; quite simply a reimagining of your typical old school diner.” And they just opened a second location in Alon—we can’t wait to see it!
CAPPY’S When we‘re craving seafood, there’s no better place in town than Cappy’s…and not just because it’s right down the street. “Cappy’s has been San Antonio’s goto “upscale, yet casual” spot for seafood, steaks and innovative American eats since 1977. We offer an extensive wine list and craft cocktail menu, as well as over 40 varieties of scotch and bourbon.” They also have a great handle on Cajuninfused dishes that take you back to the Bayou every time!
THE GUENTHER HOUSE Standing as a local landmark with a lot of history and an extension of the Pioneer Flour Company, is The Guenther House, so named for the founding family. “Carl H. Guenther and his wife, Dorothea, had 7 children (as you see in the picture to the top right). Their youngest son, Erhard became president of Pioneer Flour Mills in 1902. He also undertook a major remodeling of the family home which gave The Guenther House the look it has today.” Known for their exceptionally delicious Southern home-cookingstyle American cuisine and decadent desserts, this place is special for more than its restaurant. An on-grounds museum, gift shop and elevated garden dining room make it unique and worth experiencing.
LIBERTY BAR Liberty Bar stands as one of SA’s most unique restaurant concepts. As the story goes, “born in San Antonio on Bastille Day of 1985 in a louche bistro by the old Pearl Brewery, it migrated in 2010 from a broke down palace to a converted convent (it's never too late) and the tradition of Serious Food continued. Scratch made from guggle to zatch the Liberty Bar is the same as it was the day it opened... only different.” Different is good. Their evolving food menu and inventive drink menu is adventurous and fair priced enough to stop in for any occasion. Perfect with friends, your beau or solo— they’re sure to deliver “Beauty & Charm”.
GARDEN TEA LOUNGE PEPPER’s own Becky Witte-Marsh was the first to introduce me to this fantastic tea haus inside of Craftiques Mall. Our mindset coach Crystal Lopez-Crebs held her Fashionable Adoptions ‘Tea & Tails’ fashion show there, which our photojournalist John Hendrick captured. I can tell you our staff LOVES this place. “We specialize in organic teas which are sourced from farms and small artisans from around the world who craft tea like they have for many generations. We offer artisan cheese, fruit and cracker plates, sweet or savory scones made from scratch and a variety of fresh sweets and pastries from local bakers. Also available in the Garden Tea Lounge is a wide selection of teaware representing tea cultures from around the world…just about anything need to make and enjoy a fine cup of tea.” Whether casually dining or high tea for Derby day, give them a visit!
THE MENGER HOTEL The historic and glamorous Menger Hotel also houses the best breakfast buffet in the city. “The Victorian-era Colonial Room Restaurant continues the culinary tradition established in 1859 by head chef Mary Menger, wife to William Menger. Here, the cuisine pays homage to the past, early jazz and ragtime play in the background, and romantic lighting sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.” Perfectly priced dishes and top service is what they’re known for. The famous Menger Bar serves drinks and select food items, and the hotel has recently added a taqueria with unexpected and yummy taco flavors of many varieties.
OTRO DOMINGO On the Riverwalk level of the urban Canopy Hotel rests top-ranked Domingo, “a modern tribute to South Texas cuisine.” Chef Arturo Treviño has tailored the restaurant’s menu to incorporate traditional favorites with his own modern twist. “From brunch plates to appetizers and dinner entrees, Domingo’s menus offer the flavors of South Texas, celebrating the culture of San Antonio with modern culinary flair.” It’s one of our favorite places!
Also located at the Canopy Hotel is Otro—“A San Antonio Elevated Terrace Bar ABOVE THE REST.” Overlooking the landmark Aztec Theatre on North St. Mary’s Street, it’s definitely in a league of its own. “From company happy hours to bachelorette parties, Otro Bar provides a one-of-akind elevated setting for fun events of every kind. Invite your favorite group of people and enjoy stylish drinks above the San Antonio cityscape.” You can also order savory bites and deserts from Domingo and they’ll cart it right up to you. With city views, great music and the occasional DJ’s and live music experiences, it’s always a party to be sure.
Joe A. Gomez III has since partnered up with PB&J with Tay to serve his NOVEM Bean brand coffee there as an artisanal treat! You can even buy it by the bag straight from the cafe. Paired with Jeremiah’s unique sandwich options, it can’t be beat. It’s the kind of magic you have to taste to believe.
BOHANAN’S
PB&J WITH TAY Okay, when my friend Damien told me there is a peanut butter jelly sandwich shop in SA, I admit at first I was skeptical. Surprisingly, PB&J with Tay was so much more than I expected. “Jeremiah Burns set out to establish a one of a kind idea encompassing family and friends. Named after his daughter, Taylynn, PB&J with Tay makes nostalgic sandwiches served with kindness.” Emphasis on the kindness part—I truly felt I was ‘eating my feelings’ as I sat for 2 hours getting to know Jeremiah. And I’m so happy I did! As it turns out, PEPPER’s own
Ever wonder what SA was like in the jazz era? Look no further than the swanky downstairs jazz bar setting of Bohanan’s Steakhouse. “Located in the heart of San Antonio on historic Houston Street, Bohanan’s beautiful upstairs dining room has an Old-World steakhouse charm with a modern attention to detail.” The culinary offerings are sensational. With over the top flambé performed right in the dining hall to the sound of clapping patrons, this isn’t just delicious upscale dining—it’s a whole experience. One in particular that I will never forget, since it’s the spot my
husband took me for our first official date. (If you ask Joe, he’ll tell you it was our third, which goes to show how oblivious neurodivergent folks like myself can be when it comes to social nuances!) It’s the place where the spark hit for me, right around the time they lit up our Bananas Foster table side. The place where Mo was always on hand to deliver world class hospitality. The place we longed for most during the isolation of the pandemic, when we reminisced over the jazz band and the snarky lead singer who’d deliver an eye roll every time Joe would request Sinatra. Quite frankly, it’s special. Chef Mark Bohanan has cultivated a multiple award-winning restaurant experience with an incredible staff that stays. You can see a show at The Majestic across the street, then finish the night with unforgettable food, spirits, song and dance.
BACKSTORY Though I’m taking lead on our culinary coverage, I’d be remiss if I didn’t highlight our CFO Joe A. Gomez III, who is an incredible personal chef for his brand NOVEM Cuisine. Joe has managed to build NOVEM from the ground up into a fast-paced, highly sought after dining experience with a staff of several culinary assistants and servers, to include PEPPER Magazine’s own men’s style consultant Andrew Barraza. (There’s a theme here— we’re all pretty joined at the hip.) From intimate couples’ dinners to elegant plated events to family style buffets and even larger venue events, NOVEM delivers exceptional gourmet fare.
Meredith O’Connor
The Trailblazing Artist Who Influenced How Advocacy Looks In Pop Culture New York, New York
journalist K. Day Gomez with intro by Lisa Termini
which have led her to create this campaign. As one of the first pop artists to use their fame to discuss mental health advocacy, Meredith’s early trailblazing work has influenced the industry with respect to mental health and anti-bullying advocacy and has helped to shape it into what it is today. She’s spoken at the United Nations over six times on the topic, keynoted at Universities and delivered a TEDx speech. In addition to being a voting member of the Grammys, her influence has resulted in recognition from members of the US Congress, The City of Los Angeles, and more.
Interview Taking it back to the beginning, we asked Meredith how old she was when she became interested in show business. “My first experiences on stage were as a child, at which time I also learned that I have ADHD. I think the combination of internalizing an identity of being ‘bad’ at academics and ‘good’ at performing conrtributed heavily to my relationship to the arts.
Hit recording artist Meredith O'Connor is known for her positive impact that has influenced fans all over the world and the industry alike. Meredith O'Connor influenced the standard for uplifting content with a global following that embraced her empowering message. She is recognized as iconic for her anti-bullying activism. Her advocacy has impacted the lives of millions and has positively shaped the music industry. Following her breakout single in 2013 that launched her to become a teen idol, Meredith has paved the way for many musicians and advocates who experienced bullying over their differences. Since then, she has packed theaters on two world tours, and most recently spearheaded a partnership with The National Alliance on Mental Illness, uniting some of the most prominent names in Kpop, Afropop, and other recording artists from all different parts of the world. Through the release of the star studded single ‘You Are Not Alone’, Meredith O'Connor has begun to share experiences in her life and music career 126
In an education system where I was misunderstood, it led me to look to other places to feel confidence and a sense of belonging. To this day, I feel so lucky to have been able to have found that in musical theater at such a formative age. From ages eight up until I was discovered by a modeling agency in my early teens, participating in theater was something that reminded me of my abilities and gave me feelings of joy. It got me thorough a lot for sure.” Though her family was there every step of the way, it was a bit of a roller coaster. “My family would explain the challenges of the entertainment industry professionally when I expressed the interest as a young kid because they did not have any inside connections and knew that it’s a hard world to break into. On the other hand, they supported me finding the local acting school (Stars of Tomorrow) in my hometown which was a major support emotionally during some challanging years in school. I was determined, so later I would learn how navigating the field looked. I luckily met a few people early in my career when I started modeling who gave me excellent guidance. Once my first song was a hit, there was alot of excitement on all fronts.”
Mental health is a huge focal point for Meredith in both her music and speaking career. We asked why it’s so important to her and what ways she advocates and creates awareness through her music. “I remember how scary it felt to grow up in middle school around a time where there was such a lack of dialogue and information on disorders (like OCD, depression, etc.) that were otherwise really common. Going to therapy at age 13 and overcoming my OCD symptoms inspired me toward careers in the mental health space. I did not expect to have a hit song a couple years later. But once I did, I felt it was a once in a lifetime opportuinty to be the role model in pop culture to my fans that I needed but didnt have. In 2013, it was not really a ‘thing’ in pop music to speak on bullying prevention or mental health. Since it had not been done, no one—including me— really knew how fans would respond if I used my platform for the cause. Once we started getting masive amounts of strong responses from fans saying how they resonated and connected with the
message, I felt even more of a duty to deliver lyrics and messaging that could uplift people who face bullying or mental health difficulties.” Next, we asked about her influences. “In my early career in music, my fans were a major source of inspiration to me. I say this because I came out with a message that was sort of not really done yet in pop music, with zero expectations for any kind of response or success from listeners. The fact that the song like ‘The Game’ came out and had the responses it did, gave me the inspiration to focus on some of the messages I received from fans who told me they also felt alone. It became my motivating drive to ensure that those who were experiencing bullying and mental illness did not have to feel the same sense of isolation that I felt before these issues were as widely talked about.” At this point, Meredith really has done it all. We asked about some of the events she’s taken part in during her career so far, and any favorite stories or memories that impacted her along the way. “Probably would be a couple times during my meet and greets because it's taught me so much on how different experiences look with bullying, for different people. One story that stood out was a girl who came up to me—also tall—and told me that she was made fun of too for her height. She was called weird at school. It was one of those moments where I felt so much countertransference and realized as we were talking that one of the issues she faced was not just the bullying, but how quickly she (and others) are to assume they are at fault before considering the opposite. 127
Most of my encouters with fans who have been bullied were often times outcasted for things that made them otherwise unique, beautiful and wonderful. I wanted to amplify this pattern through the You Are Not Alone campaign by uniting celebrities from across the globe to encourage listeners to embrace their differences.” Meredith has spearheaded other movements and organizations as well. “I started Metamorphosis Records as a response to the opportunities I've had to work with other celebrities and international artists who are also passionate about mental health advocacy. I was inspired by seeing how much of a difference uplifting and inspirational content has on listeners to dedicate the label and platform to amplify other voices creating that change in their community.” O’Connor is actively pursuing new avenues of change through the continued efforts of her campaign. “Following the You Are Not Alone campaign, we are in the process of launching an international program which I am excited to share more on soon. I think outlets such as PEPPER Magazine are also a powerful agent for amplifying content that has the power to make positive change. The proof that audiences want to see it in the space of news and media is there as well I think. So encouraging others to follow by creating this
magazine is a massive step towards continuing progress in the societal influence that pop culture has.” I will say on whole, I felt PEPPER was truly ‘seen’ by Meredith during our long phone conversation. She truly gets what we’re doing here, and the fact that our messages are so aligned was pure kismet. We asked where she hoped her career will take 129
That can sustain a lot of early mornings and will promote the needed perseverance in this space.” And for youth who are having a rough time with their mental health or bullying, “I would say, if you're lucky enough to be different, not to ever change.” Meredith does have a lot of big plans and exciting things coming up, but for now, she’s keeping things under wraps. “I am looking forward to a possible upcoming collaboration announcement.” We can say it’s big and definitely has the potential to change the system for the better. You can find Meredith O’Connor and become a patron online. ”I love to respond to people on Instagram. I can be found at @meredithoconnor . I also encourage checking out the You Are Not Alone single and campaign with Minzy, RUGGERO and many others.”
The Takeaway
“If you're lucky enough to be different, don’t ever change.” —Meredith
Meredith O’Connor’s global impact in music was inspired by her own mental health challenges during adolescence and feelings of isolation. Her platform and fame became her vehicle to be the voice in pop culture that she at one point needed. The journey of how it shaped the lives of fans and the music industry across the globe came as a surprise to many, especially herself. We’re talking about a neurodivergent creative who passionately cultivated a movement around the needs of those who struggle because she’s been there.
her in the future? “I hope to next focus my energy on making a difference in the space of public education for Neurodivergent students.” There is so much room for improvement in this sector. Special needs programs do a lot for kids of various disabilities. However, kids who fall under a very in-between zone on the spectrum lack the proper supports that play to their strengths.
Likewise, PEPPER Magazine is neurodivergent led and a safe space for individuals of all neurotypes, abilities, disabilities and orientations to come together, to tell their stories, and to get active in their communities to incite real and lasting change. The moral of the story is you’re not alone, and it’s not a cliche. With artists like Meredith and the other celebrities who have joined her cause actively advocating for change—as well as independent news outlets and publishing firms rising up to the cause [also see Alora nonprofit led ReRoute Magazine]—the global climate for these conversations and the consequential opportunities that are unfolding are greater than ever before.
As for advice for those interested in a career in the music industry, Meredith says, “I would say that it's important to really want it and have purpose and passion if heading into the field.
And if you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, please seek support resources in your area. Never hesitate to speak up. Advocacy begins with us. 131
BLESS
POET & RECORDING ARTIST
SIBUSISO “BLESS” SHONGWE The Kingdom of Eswanti journalist K. Day Gomez
WHO IS BLESS Sibusiso Barnabas Shongwe, born in 1998, grew up in a place called Boyane. He permanently relocated in 2008 to Phonjwane all the way from Siphofaneni. His background is in poetry, which he has been developing since late 2021. Shongwe grew up listening to that genre. He became intrigued with the idea of delivering a longer message through poetry. Over time, he cultivated a reputation as “a person of extraordinary thinking”. Venturing fully into the world of poetry, he took up the stage name “Bless”. He was inspired by Scooby The Poet (Sibonginkhosi Ngwenya) who he says, “made me believe in myself when it comes to the writing, cause he also helped me.” He has a deep love of poetry, finding that it entertains people, and he's very good at what he does—“entertaining and giving people a good show,” all while having fun. “It’s thrilling,” he says. He is one of the artists whose music has also received airplay on EBIS radio stations and who has been able to bag a live interview on Eswatini Television.
BACK TO THE BEGINNING Now that we know who Bless is, we sat down for a biographical deep dive into his life and journey. As we always do, we started with his family— regarding his writing—asking if he felt supported or if there was resistance or hesitation? Bless says, “financially, they never supported me on my music dream because they never thought it was the right direction to take. Some of my relatives did encourage me to carry on doing what I love, which is music.” We can totally understand that. Being creative naturally comes with friction in most family units until they receive proof over time that the art is sustainable. At this juncture, as Bless continues to gain momentum and the forward motion has yielded success, most of the doubts are being put to rest. “Mainly I do poetry, but sometimes when I'm bored I write other genres—like HipHop (rap and
trap). Otherwise, poetry is my passion.” He also records with other artists when he gets the chance. “I have worked with Beex Triggar from Nigeria, Mount Thance from South Africa and Skhubash, Tn$ Savvy from Eswatini to name a few.” He’s his own artist in every sense and tries to stay away from being too heavily influenced by the art of others. But that doesn’t mean he isn’t affected by the work of others. “I won't say it's an inspiration, but more of a motivation by Cassper Nyovest, the HipHop & Amapiano artist. He's a hardworking artist who made it because he is always working hard to better himself, and he always delivers the best music. That's what I wanna do when it comes to poetry.” 133
As for the core themes Bless touches on in his poetry, as well as other themes he hopes to cover as his journey unfolds, he emphasizes, “Love and relationships. I also wanna extend my content to talk about life and hustle to inspire others.” The hustle is something every artist can relate to. His poetry and the work he records does have an underlying purpose. There is much change he’d like to see take place. “I want to see the world turn into a peaceful and safe, loving environment. I will keep on writing poems to spread the word for the future generations to be in a better place.” Travel is a big part of expansion for recording artists, and Bless has many goals and plans for expansion which will hopefully take him to many different places around the globe. “International and overseas, because I'm able to write my own lyrics and perform the project. In fact, I'm a good reciter.” To this point, he tells us, “I've worked on some single tracks so far— 'Inhlupheko', 'Buy Eihay' Feat Scooby The Poet, 'Ngitsandziwe' Feat Skhubash to mention a few. I hope soon I'll work on an EP, and later an album.”
THE LATEST About his current release, Bless tells us, “the song 'Imali' is about encouraging people to keep on hustling because things are like a swing chair in life. Things can keep you busy and you enjoy 134
doing them, but they won't get you anywhere in all. There will be no money so that you can survive. The song features two of the most talented artists in the Kingdom of Eswatini. These artists are Double TV (a vocalist) and Tn$ Savvy (a producer, trapper and graphic designer) who also designed the song art cover all the way from Wise Eagle Records.” These artists play a major role in delivering a strong and relatable message in the song. “I was so happy when both accepted the collaboration", said Bless. “The track is available on all digital stores and platforms. I've composed and recorded a lot of songs, like 'Inhlupheko' and 'Ngitsandziwe' hit song with Skhubash the Siteki boy, to mention a few that got airplay on local radio stations, due to approved quality. Not forgetting a friend of mine, Lokhozi, who is always on my side every day. They also take part as one of the best in hosting a song. People can check out my latest release 'Imali' at https://ffm.to/blessdoubletv-savvy .” For those seeking a career in the music industry in general, Bless says, “my advice would be first focus with school and finish the pursuit of your music or poetry dream. And if you don't have money to sponsor yourself, find a manager or get a side hustle.” He’s honest in saying, “music is hard to do.” If you’re interested in connecting and supporting, “you can find my poetry on all digital stores like Spotify, YouTube and all digital platforms like Facebook, Tiktok & Instagram or by searching Bless Eswatini on YouTube and subscribe!”
Sipho Lesihle SINENKOSI MSOMI Mbabane, Mpolonjeni
Thina Sobabili II
HUMANS OF
SAN DIEGO
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA An authentic visual essay as told through the lens of photographer Corey Davenport. 138
From Corey’s perspective… About San Diego… Still holding on to the remnants of what “beach life” entails. San Diego is the perfect culmination of what you expect to feel when thinking about California. With its small bungalows near the ocean to the high rise businesses downtown, there is a sense of calm exuded from the pores of the city. From the outside looking in, San Diego continues to stay true to itself. And because of that, I will always feel comfortable visiting.
@sinenkosi_msomii • @latitudes.online • @afrikanizm_art
CONCEPTUAL ARTIST & PHOTOGRAPHER
SINENKOSI MSOMI Mbabane, Mpolonjeni
PEPPER no. 11 | April 2023
TALES OF SPAIN
THIS IS SPAIN BY SEIGAR
TRAVEL
passport. conceptual artist & photojournalist Seigar
This series is a collection of pop urban photographs taken in Madrid (Aranjuez) and Segovia during short trips in the summer. It plays with the concepts of identity and nation.
It brings intentional stereotypical images full of saturated colors and light, which are the preconceived ideas people take for granted in Spain. They present existence contained with the use of reflections, and some architecture and touristic views as the setting. Plastic people and also people share dreams in this set. They all seem to be meditating on life and love, planning the next move. The whole impression portrays a country staring at its future and immersed in their thoughts under the glowing sun and heat. In Spain, we are dreamers. We can feel the revolution of love from a Daliesque and camp spy’s perspective. These city narrative tales are frozen in time with the common sensation that if we press play on any of the images, something big can happen. This Is Spain.
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TRAVEL This series was exhibited in the XV Internacional Photography Biennale of Tenerife : Fotonoviembre 2019, organized by the Photography Center of the Tenerife Island, TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, in El Castillo Espacio Cultural de Puerto de la Cruz (Atlántica Colectivas).
SEIGAR —is a passionate travel, street, social-documentary, conceptual, and pop visual artist based in Tenerife, Spain. He feels obsessed with the pop culture that he shows in his works. He has explored photography, video art, writing, and collage. He writes for some media. His main inspirations are traveling and people. Seigar’s aim as an artist is to tell tales with his camera, creating a continuous storyline from his trips and encounters. He is
a philologist and works as a secondary school teacher. He is a selftaught visual artist, though he has done a two years course in advanced photography and one in cinema and television. 152
He has participated in several international exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events. His works have been featured in numerous publications worldwide. His latest interests are documenting identity and spreading the message of the Latin phrase: Carpe Diem. Recently, he received the Rafael Ramos García International Photography Award. He shares art and culture in his blog: Pop Sonality. popsonality.blogspot.com
• Instagram @kraftfitness & @bodybykraft • Website kraftfitness.com • Email shawn@kraftfitness.com
Fit to a T. WITH NUTRITIONIST & FITNESS EXPERT TINA SENA
Expert Health Advice Nutrition at any age, the best foods for all bodies.
Lifestyle Tips & Resources Links, great products and places to try.
Fitness Techniques Things you can try at home or at the gym.
Fit to a T.
Doing
the Impossible Nutritionist & fitness expert Tina Sena
everyone in your life. You get to make choices every day! Choose all the great things that are possible for you!
Health and happiness,
What if someone told you that you could eat whatever you wanted and never workout and still look however you wanted to look? Hmmmm….
Tina works hands-on with clients in San Antonio, New Braunfels and surrounding areas.
Tina
Would you make the choice NOT to serve your body or your health just to look the way you think is impossible for you to look on your own. Here what’s real : having the perfect body is impossible. No matter what you do. Even surgery can’t ever get you “exactly” what you envision. I look at social media these days with great despair and sadness that our society has become so fixated on the impossible perfect looks—choosing that over having exceptional mental and physical health. I’m challenging all of you this month to take a moment to sit still and prioritize your life. Personal, business, family, faith, friends… Set realistic goals for your life; not impossible ones! Strive to be the very best version of yourself, not just for yourself, but for
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Find Tina online at tinasenaofficial.org or Instagram at @tinasenaofficial
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HEALING PRACTITIONER
ROMY NAVA
A MODERN MYSTIC
A Journey of
Healing
EMBRACING THE NEW ASTROLOGICAL AGE AND DISCOVERING PERSONAL GROWTH
A Journey of Healing and Transformation: Healing Practitioner Romy Nava The Medicine for the People Event As I stepped into the Medicine for the People event, I knew I was embarking on a life-changing journey. A spiritual gathering held at the cusp of a new astrological age, with Pluto returning to Aries, the experience would prove to be transformative and healing. From contact improv dance and Thai massage workshops to kundalini yoga and walking on a sadhu board, I fully immersed myself in the myriad of activities offered, making beautiful connections and discovering newfound strength within myself. The event brought together like-minded individuals who value spiritual growth and embraced the power of love and understanding. For me, the first Rapeh experience marked a turning point, allowing an emotional release that set the stage for a weekend of profound healing. The cacao ceremony that followed further reinforced the bonds forged and the energy
shared among the participants. One of the highlights of the weekend was a vocal toning workshop with sound master Michael Enderle, where I learned to harness the power of sound for personal growth. And as the weather finally warmed, a refreshing swim in the nearby river washed away the last remnants of negativity. Despite facing a challenging Friday night—having forgotten my sleeping bag and enduring a 45° night in a tent with only a throw blanket—the support and energy from the event carried me through. In the end, the beautiful sunrise the next morning seemed like a reward, a symbol of new beginnings. Every night, epic drum circles that lasted until the wee hours of the morning gathered dancers and musicians around a roaring campfire. It was a mesmerizing display of unity and passion, culminating in the spectacular Medicine Show on 159
the final evening. The performance featured fire dancers, music, and lasers, making for an unforgettable experience. The Angel Walk on the last day provided me with the most powerful emotional release of the entire weekend. As I returned home, I felt recharged and ready to manifest an even stronger reality. Leading up to this incredible event, I had just accepted a role as the host of a new TV show, "The Romy Experience: Insights of a Modern Mystic," which will be streaming on the Roku channel through the Orale Network. The entire experience, from the Medicine for the People event to my new TV show, feels like part of a greater plan for my journey. As both a columnist for PEPPER Magazine and the host of my new TV show, I am deeply grateful for everyone who has believed in me, witnessed my growth, and supported me through my struggles. This journey has taught me to pick up my pieces and put them back together so I can soar higher than ever before.
The new book by author Stacey M. Dlouhy, MS, CHC
NOW AVAILABLE on
Live2bBalanced.com/
POSITIVELY CRYSTAL
POSITIVELY CRYSTAL
Motivational Mindset Coach Crystal Lopez-Crebs
PLAN, DO, REVIEW, ADJUST When we set goals, there are milestones and checkpoints on the way to achieving them. These milestones are just markers to see if you are on the right track or to see where you may need to make an adiustment. We all have our own pace and our own way to handle where we are on our way to the goal. I want to make sure that you don't stress too much on where you are at each checkpoint, whether you are on track or a little off track. Be excited for the life you are creating. The first quarter of the year has passed. We all set our New Year's resolutions at the beginning of this year, now it's time to review and see where we are. Now, regardless if you have stuck to your plan or not, I want you to be at peace. There is no right or wrong that has happened; you are just looking at what happened. I like to do something called plan, do, review, adjust. We planned out the goals we have for the year at end of the year to begin in January. Over the past few months, we have been taking action steps towards our goals. If you had a 90-day goal, have you successfully achieved it? If not, during the review process, make an adjustment and see if that adjustment supports you. I want to break it down even further. When you plan what goals you want to achieve, whether it's a New Year's resolution or at any point in your life, the plan is just that: a plan. There are people naturally born to plan and some people whose strength lies somewhere else. Planners can perfect the steps and timelines, and if they are great at executing, success in inevitable. There are also planners that have perfected planning, however they lack in the execution of the plan. We all fall into one of these types of planners at the beginning of every year. The "Do" part of the process is where we all start off strong. The key to the doing is not motivation, because we all have it when we have that initial excitement. The real key is discipline. When someone makes their goal to start working out, of course they are all in the first week. But slowly as the days go by, the motivation is lost and so is the action. It is important to your commitment to be disciplined. As long as you are consistent with
your discipline and keep on taking the next step one day at a time, you will inevitably reach your goal. Now, one other thing to take into consideration is that success loves speed. So, build your momentum and ride that momentum. Now, once you have planned and done, take the time to review. Let's say you had that 90-day goal. Have you reached it at 90 days? If you have, amazing! Reflect on what worked that supported you to complete it, and use that data to plan for the next 90 days. If you did not complete your goal in those 90 days, what were some of the factors that held you back or distracted you from it? This review is a learning lesson that you get so you can move into the adjust phase. Remember, things don't happen TO you, they happen FOR you. With the reflection you have just done, you can make the proper adjustments needed to complete the goal that you missed, or support the goal you have just achieved? We all need to make adjustments when it comes to our life —whether it's a work goal, relationships, and many other places in our life. Things will always happen that are unexpected and you will have to adjust to those circumstances. The biggest take away from reflecting on where you are after the first quarter of the year is that, if you fall off of your plan, you can start again. Look how far you have come from the beginning of that plan. You are already a different person from where you started. Do not beat yourself up or get too frustrated with yourself if you did not reach your goal. Make a new plan and take a step. As long as you don't quit, you will continue to chip away towards your goals and eventually make them a reality. I believe in you! 163
infinitephotographyofficial.com @infinitephotographysa
APRIL 2023
prodigy.
B E C O M I N G
T E E N
SASHA
M O D E L
O L E K S A N D R A
N I C E ,
S T A R Y N E T S
F R A N C E
journalist K. Day Gomez
LIFE IN CONSTANT
MOTION
Sasha otherwise resides in Nice, France with hopes of making her next work jaunts in the US, Japan, Korea, Singapore and the United Emirates. “I've been on 20 modeling trips all over the world.” Thus far, she already has Switzerland, Taiwan, Italy, Vietnam, Cyprus, China, Vietnam, Qatar, Thailand and many European countries under her belt. Twenty countries and counting is enough to give most of us whiplash or at the very least, jet lag. But Sasha craves the adventure and her joy is clearly visible through the work she produces. “I get pleasure from exploring a new countries and their cultures. A piece of advice for beginning models —to achieve a high result, you must enjoy the process, love with all your heart what you are doing, and only in this case will you get harmony of interaction with a
Oleksandra Starynets has already begun to make her mark in the fashion industry as an up and coming teen model who in just 4 years since beginning her career is already leading an incredibly charmed life. She first graced the pages of PEPPER Magazine as a jet setting 18 year old in July of 2022 for our travel section. Ukrainianborn, Oleksandra prefers to go by 'Sasha' as her professional name. And though she’s led a glamorous life, she’s no stranger to hardship. In fact, her journey has currently taken her to a dangerous place…back home. “Now I came to my parents in Kyiv and we have a war.” Since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, the death toll has risen to just shy of 9,000 civilians with over 8.1 million refugees misplaced from the beginning to now. So much brutality is hard to fathom, but Starynets remains focused on continuing to build a life and career for herself despite it. “My goal is to become a supermodel and I dream about the end of the bloody war in our country.” 166
photographer and his or her team. Then the result will not be long in coming.” There is so much rigorous work that goes into maintaining near perfect health, constant travel, and long stints of time away from the familiarity of home and loved ones. The sacrifices take a toll on anyone, but this young woman maintains an upbeat demeanor with one objective—loving what she does for a living. Aside from a now 103K Instagram following, she's graced the cover of international magazines and been published alongside entertainers and notable brands - and she’s only 19.
In her time in the industry thus far, Sasha has come to learn and appreciate the full process on the publishing end of the modeling work she lends herself to. Now familiar with production, photography, selection, submission, layout and editorializing, she understands that so many professionals trade hands before her own work reaches its final incarnation. “They are amazing emotions and hard work! Not everything is as simple and easy as you see on the finished cover. But it is also an invaluable experience!” One that, if you asked Sasha, she wouldn’t want to trade for anything.
Starynets is mindful of the importance of human connection, even urging her fans to hold tight to their parents and loved ones during these strange and trying times. In this unsettling and intense political atmosphere when her home country faces the cruelties of war, the realities are not lost on her. It is clearly important to maintain as positive a mindset as is possible in order to continue working. Keep an eye out as we continue to cover Sasha’s work in future issues.
R I S I N G
STAR
MODEL OLEKSANDRA “SASHA”STARYNETS PHOTOGRAPHER IRYNA SAPOZHNIK
HELP A YOUNG NEURODIVERGENT ARTIST LINK : peppermagazine.myshopify.com/collections/art-prints
• ART FOR ENGINEERING •
Autistic child artist Aiden Gamez is raising money for STEM learning toys, equipment, art supplies and other tools he needs as he pursues engineering sciences and art.
Please consider supporting his endeavor by purchasing his original artwork, signed prints or postcards.
CHIYO'S MIRROR FLASH FICTION AUTHOR JONATHAN DARREN GARCIA SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS X PHOTOGRAPHER K. DAY GOMEZ
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AWAKEN OUR FUTURE POET LAUREATE ANDREA ’VOCAB' SANDERSON / SAN ANTONIO TX PHOTOGRAPHER MCKENNA PHILLIPS / GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
lit.
It is the new beginnings, With the sky so beautiful filled with so many Sunrise colours on display, Revealing the glorious promise of hope and beautiful dreams. The morning sun shines bright, That the darkness of the night, Gets ruled out by the amazingly beautiful light, In an aim of giving birth to hope and positive dreams. Colour orange gently breaks a day, And politely ends a day, Living in two different ends, But only competes and meet each other in one place, Just to decorate the beautiful, eye-catching sky. Sunrise Dreaming Feel sad for missing sunrise rather than people. For they change like weather conditions— Today you're beautiful and lovely like a summer's day in their eyes, Tomorrow you are bad-hearted, selfish and cold like a winter's day. Life won't always flourish as you want, For everything is temporary, Even the pain we endure on our journey. The best part in everything
Is that no matter what, you will eventually bloom again like all the flowers in time. It is good to learn to wait for your time. For there is time for everything. No matter what your ears hear, Even what your physical and spiritual eyes see, You got to listen to your basic, truthful instincts. You need to trust what you feel. I do not want my heart to be heavy, Being ruined by hope and sunset dreams. Sunrise Dreaming Is like life giving you survival tips To escape the heavy weights that it brings. Life gives you a lesson On how to chin up even when your heart burns scorching like hell. The moment you start forgetting, Those who forgot you, That is when you will start seeing yourself feeling more like sunrise full of dreams. Just like birds, Your heart and mind knows where it really belongs. With sunrise Dreaming, I'm still learning to love myself After I went to war with myself. For my beautiful dreams to come true, I grow through what I go through.
A Flicker in a Cheap Candle
An introspective poem by author Robert Dean photographers Peter Bucks & Ruan Richard Rodriguez
As children, we were promised rainbows on the end of lollipop sticks, not to stand in cold showers, trying to wash off the horrors that are our lives.
the air trapped inside your lungs—the same ones with the broken chest that wheezes just a little too hard because allergies make it hard to sleep soundly.
It’s a knife fight out there, one cigarette burn at a time. There are lies and then there are lies, whichever you choose to engage, we’re all guilty just like those kids staring toward the sky, waiting for the rain to stop and the clouds to give us a show. Who doesn’t love a rainbow? Who doesn’t love the scent of wet concrete? Nightmares don’t happen during the day they say—but they do.
That time when the rain hit the trees below the patio is now just a memory, like the empty wine bottle and the pizza that’s long gone, the pizza box decomposing somewhere against other garbage, a reminder of the past, too.
Do you know what heartbreak sounds like? Can you put your ear to the chest that’s holding in a scream? Silence booms when the other end of a conversation is the void. Just because someone you love is gone doesn’t mean they’re gone. They’re sharing different air, riding in the different car, hearing someone else’s dumb stories. They’re going to different hot pot shops, to different bars. But maybe hearing the same song you’re listening to, and maybe, they’ll think of you, if only for a second. What is worth when it’s stabbed into your being, into
She used to smile at me with all of her teeth, laughing hard at my jokes or my comments, and it made me feel a thousand feet high, better than any walk on the beach or drink at a Mexican restaurant after too many chips and salsa. Small hands in big hands, boots left in the garage while she danced with her wrists akimbo. I’m still learning how to whisper, get too excited in the depths of shadows, even in the most mundane of conversations. I’m not scared of falling off a ledge. I’m scared about what’ll happen when I hit the ground, if I’d have a heart attack mid-air. My heart is a fragile thing. It beats like a steel guitar but now without strings. My heart is on a playlist somewhere—I hope she has it saved to her favorites to maybe put on one, and maybe there will be a rainbow.
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@literallyrobertdean
L I N K T R . E E / D A B L U E K I D D I E
THE MEANING OF
MERCY Relief Begins with a Helping Hand
THE STORY OF GOD’S MERCY ORPHANAGE Home for Abandoned Children, Uganda • journalist K. Day Gomez
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“FRIENDS, ALL WE DO IN THIS STRUGGLE IS NOT INDIVIDUAL EFFORT”
our mission to do all we can to tell these stories and help bring awareness to their needs.
the message reads for all to see on the home page for God’s Mercy Orphanage Center in Uganda. “We humbly request for you to kindly join us to improve the welfare of these innocent souls.”
Uganda particularly is one of the poorest countries in the world. With a population of 44.3 million people, 76% of whom reside in rural areas, a staggering 41% of the populous lives in poverty. “Almost half of Uganda’s population is under the age of 15, representing one of the youngest populations in the world,” Opportunity International reports. “Uganda also hosts the largest refugee population in Africa—more than one million refugees have fled their home countries to seek asylum in Uganda.
There’s a common theme here. PEPPER Magazine does in fact cover the stories of many orphanages, the bulk of which thus far are in Uganda. We’re not playing off a particular agenda; these are the organizations who happen to find us and reach out, and we have made it
Over the next decade, agricultural development will be a main priority to help improve outcomes for low-income families. It will also be an increasingly important industry for youth and refugees to find viable opportunities to earn PERRER MAGAZINE
sustainable livelihoods for themselves.” Shelter is something the organization secured early on. It isn’t the most comfortable accommodations for the growing number of children they have taken on, but they do what they can. “I am Brother Waiswa Samuel from Eastern Uganda and I oversee this legitimate charity organization, taking care of homeless kids.” Brother Sam, as we have come to know him, does everything he can for the orphans who reside at God’s Mercy. One determined young man and a small handful of staff is not enough to provide for everyone. And yet, just as has been the case for the other orphanages we have covered, giving up is not an option. 188
”We still have our trust in God,” Sam says. “We believe He who started this work in us can't fail to accomplish it.” But as PC culture has finally taught us, ‘thoughts and prayers’ are not enough. You cannot fill these little ones’ bellies with ‘thoughts and prayers’. You cannot provide necessary infusions or medical care for them with ‘thoughts and prayers’. And ‘thoughts and prayers’ are not enough to keep strict landlords at bay. It is with that reality in mind that Sam reached out. “We kindly call upon friends to help donate toward our organization. Please don't let our efforts fail! Your support is our strength and every penny counts a lot.” We like to emphasize that even those who are
unable to donate funds but would still like to do something, anything to be of help, always have other options available. Sharing their page or this article to help spread the word is better than doing nothing at all.
“MONEY IS NOT THE ONLY COMMODITY THAT IS FUN TO GIVE. WE CAN GIVE TIME, WE CAN GIVE OUR EXPERTISE, WE CAN GIVE OUR LOVE, OR SIMPLY GIVE A SMILE. WHAT DOES THAT COST? THE POINT IS, NONE OF US CAN EVER RUN OUT OF SOMETHING WORTHWHILE TO GIVE.” —STEVE GOODIER
privilege are able to help most.
“YOU GIVE BUT LITTLE WHEN YOU GIVE OF YOUR POSSESSIONS. IT IS WHEN YOU GIVE OF YOURSELF THAT YOU TRULY GIVE.” —-KAHLIL GIBRAN You can find God’s Mercy Orphanage on Instagram @christ_alone44 and reach out to Brother Samuel directly there in order to donate or learn more. If you do nothing more than spread the word, share their story, encourage others to do the same, you are in fact doing a whole lot. There is POWER in a unified voice.
Take for example one way our own staff member, Sinenkosi has stepped up to get active. Conceptual Artist & Photographer Sinenkosi Msomi took it upon himself to donate the proceeds from prints of his own conceptual art photographs to another such program we covered—The Kearing Foundation Orphanage for children fighting AIDS. [images referenced above] PEPPER Magazine is honored to facilitate this very special donation drive. That’s just one really great example of what getting involved can look like. Get creative! There are so many ways that so many of us can make a difference. And those who live in a state of
@staceyraeofficial • cloverbudphotography.com
W O M A N L I F E F R E E D O M A MULTI-GENERATIONAL REVOLUTION
The ongoing protests for a free Iran. photojournalist Chaz Niell Washington, DC
“Woman Life Freedom”, or “Jin Jian Azadi” is a popular Kurdish political slogan used in the Iranian democratic movement. The Kurdish people of Iran believe that until women are free of oppression, there is no freedom. “Woman Life Freedom” became a rallying cry in all of Iran shortly after the death of Mahsa Jina Amini. Ms. Amini was a 22-year-old Iranian woman from Saghez (a city in the Kurdistan province) who was arrested by the Islamic Morality Police on September 16th, 2022 while on vacation with her family in the country’s capital for allegedly failing to wear her hijab correctly. Law enforcement claimed that Ms. Amini had a heart attack and collapsed at the police detention station where she was being held and fell into a coma before being transferred to a hospital. To the contrary, eyewitnesses— including other women who were being detained along with Ms. Amini—say that she was severely beaten and died as a result of police brutality. Leaked medical scans show Ms. Amini most likely suffered from a cerebral hemorrhage or a stroke due to head injuries sustained during 194
her arrest. “Woman Life Freedom” was first chanted during Ms. Amini’s funeral, and then in a series of protests in Iran by students at the University of Tehran, and eventually by protesters around the globe in the following days. Enter National Solidarity Group of Iran (NSGIran), an amazingly beautiful Iranian community here in the Washington, D.C. area. The group is led by Siamak Aram, Associate Professor at Harrisburg University, activist, and organizer of all the protests held in Washington, D.C. The voices of the people of Iran have been amplified here in the Nation’s Capital going on 32 weeks in a row. Supporters faithfully come rain or shine, even in snow. Each event has a specific message and mission in an effort to echo what is going on globally for what has become the world’s first women-led revolution. Most protests start out with a rally and end with a march toward a particular destination, such as the United States Capitol, or the White House, like their February 11th event. This date marked the 44th anniversary of the oppressive
regime in Iran being in control of the country. On February 11, thousands traveled from all around the country to ascend to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial for speeches from the likes of Iranian-born celebrities, including popular Hollywood actresses Shohreh Aghdashloo and Nazanin Boniadi, and singer Googoosh, who is one of the most popular and prolific entertainers of our time. Many others including activist, journalist and author Masih Alinejad, who has been awarded TIME Magazine’s 2023 Woman of the Year, recited songs and gave heart-warming speeches. They all shared a vision of a future Iran, post-Islamic Regime and returned to its former glory prior to the 1979 Islamic Revolution. These marches and rallies will continue throughout the D.C. area until there is a democratic Iran, free from the oppressive regime. As a photographer, I feel it is my duty to
capture the moments in the times in which I find myself. No matter whether it is my own community or another, we are a community of a single human race, and these are human rights issues. Life is funny in the sense that when I started out covering these protests, I wanted to bless this local Iranian community with my gift. I was hoping to use photography to amplify their voices, but instead, my heart has been warmed time and time again. Each and every weekend, I’m greeted with warm welcoming embraces. Not a weekend goes by without me receiving multiple greetings of appreciation and being shown gratitude for my mere presence. It is my humble honor to serve this loving community for as long as it takes to build a free Iran! #WOMANLIFEFREEDOM —Chaz Niell Photographer at Large
U N I O N
O F
T H E
Situationist Guy Debord, the developer of psychogeography, once said that ‘the city is seen as a place of continuous confrontation and struggle’. The protagonist of the painting demonstrates this quite radically—he literally resists space by drifting in place in a headstand. Again, the artists weave a thread of absurdity into the narrative : the character is either following the direction on the upside-down road
2020, Oil on canvas 60 cm x 50 cm
My Description Keeps Me Safe
IMPOSSIBLE
sign or portrays the antipode that has turned the sign topsy-turvy in the first place. Drift also happens to stand for a computer game. It is up to the viewer to decide whether this is a spontaneous game or a manifesto. At any rate, the protagonist finds himself in an inscrutable conversation with the urban environment, whose ultimate aim is to flout convention.
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About
Union of the Impossible The group of anonymous artists self-titled Union of the Impossible was established in 2020, amidst the raging pandemic and socio-political unrest. Its members are not fixed and their number keeps expanding. The artists’ staple is the traditional medium of painting on canvas. They poke fun at everyday life that has undergone a drastic change toward the bizarre. They come up with new means of protection, creating ‘visual shields’ against blandness, boredom, indifference, logic, and consistency.
resemble Polaroid shots. This is both a hint at exclusivity because Polaroids are one-of-a-kind and an act of opposition to the replicated Internet memes.
Not in our wildest dreams could we imagine that we would get to face a time of ‘great trials and tribulations’. The new normal (and, possibly, the irrevocable) has changed our lives, and we are slowly starting to grow used to it. Irony is an indispensable aid in situations such as this. This is how the Dada farce took root, first causing the viewer to go numb and begging the questions, ’What is this, exactly?’ and ‘Why this, precisely?’ and ‘What on earth?’ The outcome is the new generation of memes, occasionally dark and often straight to the point. Memes have been dubbed ‘the virus of the mind’. When all is said and done, only something apt and incisive will not fail to grab one’s attention in the influx of information that is today’s life. In troubled times, people use different avenues to protect their sanity, with artists, predictably, resorting to art. Union of the Impossible was formed during the lockdown with the mission to create works that were uncharacteristic of each individual member, and the ‘new memes’ swiftly became one of their directions. At one point over a century ago, Dada sprang up as a response to WWI with its unjustified cruelties. In 2020, artists are bringing the Dada principles back to life, repurposing them for the new circumstances: the pandemic that has the entire world under siege. Whilst Dadaists propelled anti-aesthetics, Union of the Impossible provokes and baffles the audience with its memes. Most of these ‘new memes’ are presented in white frames that are part of each picture and 202
“The Union of the Impossible is an artistic association that arose in 2020 in the era of pandemic and sociopolitical shocks.” @union_of_impossible
ICON
T H E
W O M E N
When you say the phrase, “imagine the impossible”, it’s easy to imagine reaching for the stars and riding rainbow clouds. Space travel, for instance, was thought impossible— until it wasn’t. What we don’t tend to think about in relation to the phrase is social, cultural and political barriers much closer to home.
“They wore their professional clothes like armor. They wielded their work like weapons, warding off the presumption of inferiority because they were Negro or female.”
O F
N A S A
Standing as a perfect example of this concept are the extraordinary black women who had to overcome discrimination in order to advance aerospace science to what it is today. In order to reach the stars, they first had to imagine the impossible here on the ground level—being taken seriously as women of color in the ‘60’s. Author Margot Lee Shetterly took up the arduous task of researching the lives of several such unsung heroines in her biography, ‘Hidden Figures’ chronicling “The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race”. The book, written in 2010 was so important and compelling that by 2016 Hollywood seized the opportunity to produce a
—author Margot Lee Shetterly journalist & illustrator K. Day Gomez
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theatrical adaptation of the same namesake. According to Wikipedia, “Shetterly started working on the book in 2010. It takes place from the 1930s through the 1960s, depicting the particular barriers for Black women in science during this time, thereby providing a lesser-known history of NASA. The biographical text follows the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three mathematicians who worked as “human computers” (then a job description) at NACA and NASA, during the space race. They overcame discrimination there, as women and as African Americans. Also featured is Christine Darden, who was the first African-American woman to be promoted into the Senior Executive Service for her work in researching supersonic flight and sonic booms.” We at PEPPER decided we’d be remiss if we didn’t also highlight aerospace psychophysiologist Patricia S. Cowings. So here we present all five of these innovators who braved the constricting sociopolitical climate and systemic racism of their time to pave the way for everyone who came after them. These are important figures who made significant strides in science, mathematics, psychology and engineering.
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M A R Y
J A C K S O N
(April 9, 1921 – February 11, 2005)
Mary Jackson was a mathematician and aerospace engineer at what was at the time, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics or NACA, which was succeeded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration—NASA—in 1958. She would become NASA's first black female engineer. It took Jackson 34 years to earn the most senior engineering title then available. At that juncture, she requested a demotion to shift her career focus to become a manager of the Federal Women's Program in NASA’s Office of Equal Opportunity Program, as well as the Affirmative Action Program. In doing so, she went on to influence the hiring and promotion of women in the careers of mathematics, science and engineering at NASA. It wasn’t until after her death that she was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019. “In 2021, the Washington, D.C. headquarters of NASA was renamed the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters.”
D O R O T H Y
V A U G H A N
K A T H E R I N E
J O H N S O N
(September 20, 1910 – November 10, 2008)
(August 26, 1918 – February 24, 2020)
Dorothy Jean Johnson Vaughan, also a mathematician and human computer for the NACA and NASA, spent her career at Langley Research Center. She became acting supervisor of the West Area Computers in 1949, making her the first African American woman to receive a promotion to supervise a group of staff at Langley.
Katherine Johnson is credited as another mathematician whose calculations of orbital mechanics were critical to the success of the very first and subsequent U.S. spaceflights. During her 33 year career at NACA and then NASA, she would “earn a reputation for mastering complex manual calculations and helped pioneer the use of computers to perform the tasks. The space agency noted her "historical role as one of the first African American women to work as a NASA scientist".
Vaughan prepped for the introduction of computers in the ‘60s “by teaching herself and her staff the programming language of Fortran.” She would go on to head the programming section of the Analysis and Computation Division, or ACD, at the center. Having successfully led a 28 year career at NASA, Vaughan too was honored with the Congressional Gold Medal after her death.
Johnson's work included calculating trajectories, launch windows, and emergency return paths for Project Mercury spaceflights, including those for astronauts Alan Shepard, the first American in space, and John Glenn, the first American in orbit, and rendezvous paths for the Apollo Lunar Module and command module on flights to the Moon.” Katherine’s calculations were essential to the beginning of the Space Shuttle program. She worked on plans for a mission to Mars in this time. “She was known as a "human computer" for her tremendous mathematical capability and ability to work with space trajectories with such little technology and recognition at the time.” President Barack Obama awarded Katherine Johnson the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. Then, in 2016, she was presented with the Silver Snoopy Award as well as a NASA Group Achievement Award. And like our other 205
aforementioned scientific pioneers, she too was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal by the United States Congress in 2019, and then inducted posthumously into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 2021.
C H R I S T I N E
D A R D E N
(born September 10, 1942) Christine Darden is a NASA mathematician, data analyst, and aeronautical engineer. Most of her 40 year career in aerodynamics was devoted to researching supersonic flight and sonic booms.
“I was able to stand on the shoulders of those women who came before me, and women who came after me were able to stand on mine.” —Christine Darden
P A T R I C I A
S .
(born December 15, 1948)
“She had an M.S. in mathematics and had been teaching at Virginia State University before starting to work at the Langley Research Center in 1967. She earned a Ph.D. in engineering at George Washington University in 1983 and has published numerous articles in her field. She was the first African American woman at NASA's Langley Research Center to be promoted to the Senior Executive Service, the top rank in the federal civil service.”
Aerospace psychophysi -ologist Patricia S. Cowings was the first American woman—of any race—to be trained as a scientist astronaut by NASA.
C O W I N G S
I M A G I N A T I O N = I N N O V A T I O N She never officially traveled to space despite being an alternate for a space flight as of 1979. “She is most known for her studies in the physiology of astronauts in outer space, as well as helping find cures for astronauts’ motion sickness.”
the women were not officially part of NASA and they would never be afforded the opportunity to fly in space.” [National Geographic] Then, in 1963 the Soviet Union sent the first woman into space (Valentina Tereshkova orbited Earth on the Soviet mission Vostok 6). NASA wouldn’t send the first American woman into space until 20 years later. Twenty years. Let that sink in. “In September of 2018, NASA named Holly Ridings as its first female flight director in mission control. Currently, NASA is working actively to break down the barriers for women to work within the agency in science and engineering.” There is always work to do. And it starts with those brave souls who dare to imagine the impossible.
“The sky is the limit for the limited. To the astronaut, it’s only the beginning.” —K. Day Gomez
You’ve got to remember, on May 25, 1961 JFK ambitiously challenged the US to land “a man” on the moon with the brazen declaration, “I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before the decade is out, of landing a MAN on the moon and returning HIM safely to Earth.” While NASA was training the seven astronaut men of Project Mercury, 13 women trainees were also undergoing rigorous astronaut training. Congress, however, “decided that it was more ‘appropriate’ for NASA to stick to their men's-only program, 208
PEPPER Magazine
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C
cover artist.
April 2023
KEELY MCLAVIN '23
TUD in the Cowshed Theater, Dublin. This is her third feature in PEPPER, the first time taking on the cover. McLavin is in the final year of her Fine Art (BA) with Technological University Dublin where she specializes in paint, text, photography and print.
p. 209
urrently based between Dublin and Westmeath Ireland, Keely McLavin’s work can be seen previously featured in publications such as Apricity Press and Outpost Eire as well as the group exhibition Antecedent hosted by
“I have always been creative, constantly drawing, writing, crafting since I was young. I began to look into it as a career when I was around 15 or 16 when I did my Fine Art and Art and Design A-Levels during my time in the U.K. I am currently studying Fine Art in Ireland (Level 8).” As explored in our previous issues, much of her art is feminist or humanitarian geared. On this, we asked what messages Keely seeks to convey to the viewer? “For me, art's purpose is to take a snapshot of the current society we live in, the things people experience, and to create an empathetic space for those viewing it. It is important to me to have this archive of not just a physical representation or documentation of what literally happened, but also capture the emotions that were felt during this period of time. Much of my practice is based on this idea, and often relies on historical evidence of the same issues which I then artistically respond to or incorporate into my own work.”
The work Keely created is often based on autobiographical themes such as love, relationships, friendships, as well as mental health, gender, identity, sexuality and womanhood. McLavin's art practice is centered around creating an empathetic space amongst viewers and exposing mutual feeling and experience. The work shown in this edition is concerned with the diagnosis Borderline Personality Disorder and the artists' experience of living with this and the impact it has had on her romantic, platonic and familial relationships. The turmoil that can come to light, the loss of the self and living in a constant dissociation. This body of work is part of an ongoing series titled “An Unstable Love Story” which currently features several drawn and painted works, audio and animation. As she approaches the end of her degree, she is preparing for her graduate exhibition where she will be addressing themes of sisterhood amongst women, female rage and anger, gendered language and different forms of communication through image, print, text and sculptural works. That’s who Keely McLavin is on paper. We conducted another intimate interview to better highlight who Keely is, beyond the canvas. 210
Keely is nothing it not thorough. She takes us through her typical creative process and other core themes. “Previously in my artistic practice, my work was heavily autobiographical—I think mostly as a result of the covid lockdowns. There was so much time for reflection, but mostly a lot of time to myself by myself. I used my practice as a catharsis, dealing with a lot of things that had been issues for me such as relationships, body image, identity etc. The work I created during this period was so personal and so intimate and definitely taught me a lot about what I am willing to share and not share. The work shown in this project is the evolution of that practice and the things I learned from it. Now that we are finally back out into the general population, I have been investigating feminist issues through a visual platform, specifically female rage, gender motivated violence and gender inequality. My creative process always follows the same route 1. research 2.respond 3. reiterate. Often it begins with consuming as much information on the subject I am interested in, the techniques and materials I hope to use and other historical and contemporary artists who have created work or have a practice based on similar processes or themes. Once I have this I begin, I make work even if it’s not 100% and probably something that will never see the day of life. It’s important to just start somewhere. The reiteration process which can
sometimes be repetitive, but is absolutely invaluable—this is where I can work out all the imperfections of the work and edit what is successful, legible and what might not be doing the project justice. Something that I have realized as almost an unconscious part of my practice is that I curate the media I consume. Whether it’s television, movies, podcasts, musics or books…without realizing it will cater to the concerns of whatever project I am currently working on. In this way I am constantly engaged with the work.” Aside from those multimedia influences, there are also people who play a role in her artistic journey. “There are so many people who have made a major impression on me. I think I have to credit Tracey Emin and Louise Bourgeois as some of the most important artistic influences on my practice. Not that I ever personally met them, but they taught me that it was ok to allow emotion into my work, to create things that were not aesthetically perfect but conveyed a message that was more important. Throughout my education I remember having guest lectures from Laura Fitzgerald and Amanda Coogan, both of whom are contemporary Irish artists. The work ethics of these artists, their commitment to their practices and their total immersion into the exploration of mediums and themes is something that I try to also embody in my practice. They are also just genuinely lovely people.” Keely is perfectly at home where she is. However, as is the case for most artists, she understands there is much to be gained from travel. “I am planning to continue my education in Ireland at the moment but once I'm finished I would love to work in Berlin, Vienna, Riga… There are so many places I would love to live in and engage with their artistic culture and institutions.” McLavin, being the intellectual sponge she is, would naturally be influenced by the surrounding culture anywhere she goes. To connect with artist Keely McLavin online or become patrons / access her art, she shares with our readers, “I work mostly off my Instagram, which is @xkee.ly . My website can be found at keelymclavin.weebly.com .
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A word of wisdom for others pursuing their art, Keely imparts, “The best advice I could really give : if you want to be an artist, you are an artist. There is really no point in education or career that you suddenly become an “artist”. There were so many opportunities I could have taken part in but didn’t because I was worried that I wasn't “artist” enough and it shook my confidence so much.”
We’re glad she has never allowed the imposter syndrome to stop her from doing what she does
so naturally—making art. And furthermore, making art that means something.
creating
LA • NY • MIA • LHR • SAT • ATX
directory. Instagram @delta_na / directory linktr.ee/delta_na / journalist K. Day Gomez
Credits, Locations & Contact 7
48 Blush Babe Co. with co-owner Caitalina Cochran / San Antonio , Texas / Instagram @blushbabeco_ / directory linktr.ee/Blushbabeco / photographer Mandy Kadura of Infitite Photography / journalist K. Day Gomez / with special highlight on SA Creatives
Introduction by editor in
chief K. Day Gomez / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @creative.consultant.kday / email hello.pepper@outlook.com / web directory msha.ke/kathleendaygomez / self portrait 2023 10
community art initiative + photographers Chris Cantoya, David Silva, Jonas Adoe, Josh Mossembekker,
Time is Money : artist
Stacey Lee Webber / Philadelphia, Pennsylvania / Instagram @staceyleewebber
Julian Benavides & Richard Strout
/ directory linktr.ee/staceyleewebber / journalist K. Day Gomez 19
59 Mood Ranch / Philadelphia, Pennsylvania / photographer Jeanette Shustack-Allred / model
e.phem-er-al : artist
Jeremy Siedt / Philadelphia, Pennsylvania / Instagram
Shenkinah Davis / stylist Aubrie Nader / assistant Kyle Allred / Instagram
@jeremysi / jsiedtpainting.com / journalist K. Day Gomez 27
Photo: @jeanetteshu Stylist: @aubrienaderstyle Assistant: @cowpunk.us
Tall Tales : artist
Model: @illgawdess
Tennyson Corley / Columbia, South Carolina / Instagram @tennyson_corley_art / directory
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linktr.ee/TennysonCorleyArt / journalist K. Day Gomez 36
The Interpreters : art
collaborative Delta N.A. /
model Britney Taryn / Instagram @britneytaryn_modeling / Location : San Antonio Botanical Garden @sabotgarden
world citizens (originally Italy)
ON THE COVER Artist Keely McLavin / Dublin, Ireland / Instagram @xkee.ly / keelymclavin.weebly.com
64 Secret Garden / San Antonio, Texas / photographer Josh Mossembekker / Instagram @photosby_joshm / directory photosbyjoshm.com/links /
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71 Watch Your Step / San Antonio, Texas /
directory. domain via Google
photographer Jason X Hudson / Instagram @jasonxphotography / stylist Kaia Dublin / Instagram @kaiadublin_official & @kaiadublin_brand / directory linktr.ee/KAIADUBLIN / model Summer Kewiski / Instagram @crazy_curly_dai / with LUXE LOFT Model Agency / Instagram @luxeloftmodels / luxeloftmodelagency.com 90
Modern Frontier Style
Review No. 1 : Janiece / San Antonio , Texas / photographer Michael Avila Christman of Darkhorse Photography / Instagram @darkhorsephotographysa / model Janiece Ivory / Instagram @janieceivory No. 2 : Kelsi / Austin, Texas / photographer Doug Douglas / Instagram @dx2model / model Kelsi Wofford / Instagram @kelsi.wofford / agency DX2 Model Management / dx2modelmanagement.com No. 3 : Priscilla / Woodstock, Virginia / photographer Calista Hatter / model Priscilla Bussey / Instagram Photo: @artisanscreation Model: @cillabussey 100
Style Diaries with
Charity Stewart / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @_nunnab / reference images sourced from public
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105 Storytelling Through the Eyes of AB Event Designers / Sustainable fashion & lifestyle expert Becky Witte-Marsh with partner, designer & stylist Amanda Alarcón-Hunter / San Antonio , Texas / Instagram @beckywittemarsh / photographer Torry Sledge of Quantum Lotus / Fashion Show Producers: AB Event Designers Sustainable Stylists: Amanda Alarcón-Hunter and Becky Witte-Marsh Clothing and AccessoriesDesigns by Amanda Alarcón-Hunter, Minx and Onyx Vintage and Becky Witte-Marsh / Hair and Makeup Team@pineapplehouse_beauty and @pineapplehouse_ platforms / ModelsJustin Allen Jarmusch Johnson Szu Moy Sandwich Kennedy Paula Osborne Samantha Sanders Meghan Grace Karlee Blystone Mae Coleman Ashley Figgens 114 The High Life / Highlight with Joe A. Gomez III / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @jag.enterprises / with son, Aiden Gamez @i.am.aiden.g by photographer K. Day Gomez / Reference images sourced from Google
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directory. 117
@coreylaynephoto / web directory linktr.ee/Coreylaynephoto
SAVOR part 2 / San
Antonio, Texas / as told by photojournalist K. Day Gomez / Instagram
146 PASSPORT : Tales of Spain by Seigar / This is Spain / Instagram @jseigar / seigar.wordpress.com
@creative.consultant.kday / msha.ke/kdaygomez / Culinary Brands mentioned : The Hayden, Cappy’s, The
155 Fit to a T. : Nutritionist & fitness expert Tina Sena / New Braunfels, Texas / tinasena.org / Instagram @tinasenaofficial
Guenther House, Liberty Bar, Garden Tea Lounge, The Menger Hotel, Domingo, Otro, PB&J with Tay, Bohanan’s & featuring chef Joe A. Gomez III of NOVEM Cuisine 125
Hit Recording Artist
Meredith O’Connor / New York, New York / Instagram @meredithoconnor /
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photographer Erika Barker at Erikabarker.com / journalist K. Day Gomez with intro by Lisa Termini 132
BLESS : recording artist
& poet Sibusiso "BLESS" Shongwe / The Kingdom of Eswanti / Instagram @bless_eswanti / journalist K. Day Gomez 136
Sipho Lesihle x Thina
Sobabili II : Sinenkosi Msomi / Mbabane, Mpolonjeni Swaziland, Africa / Instagram @sinenkosi_msomii / web portfolio latitudes.online/artists/sinenk osi_msomi 138
Humans of San Diego :
Corey Davenport / Austin, Texas / Instagram
114
158 A Modern Mystic : Healing Practitioner Romy Nava / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @romynava247 / website romynava.com / photographer Kenrick Mills • @kenrick_mills • Jupiter, Florida, with main article photos courtesy of the Medicine for the People Spiritual Gathering loveisourmedicine.com 162 Positively Crystal : Motivational mindset coach Crystal Lopez-Crebs / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @crystalmagic777 / linktr.ee/crystalmagic777 165 Becoming Sasha : Teen model Oleksandra Starynets / Nice, France / Instagram @sashastarynets / journalist K. Day Gomez / photographic references submitted by model from various archival shoots & previous publications
directory. 172
founder Waiswa Samuel / Eastern Uganda / Instagram @christ_alone44 —DM on Instagram to Donate / journalist K. Day Gomez
Rising Star / model
Oleksandra “Sasha” Starynets / Instagram @sashastarynets / photographer Iryna Sapozhnik 179
192 Woman Life Freedom / photojournalist Chaz Niell / Washington, DC
Chiyo’s Mirror / Flash
fiction author Jonathan Darren Garcia / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @jupiterjazz27 /
201 Union of the Impossible : My Description Keeps Me Safe / Instagram @union_of_impossible
photographer K. Day Gomez @creative.consultant.kday 180
Awaken our Future /
poet laureate Andrea Vocab Sanderson / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @vocabulous / directory linktr.ee/vocabulous /
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photographer McKenna Phillips • Grand Rapids, Michigan 181
Sunrise Dreaming /
author Njabulo Nkambule /
203 ICON : The Women of NASA / journalist & illustrator K. Day Gomez / San Antonio, Texas / direct quotes from author Margot Lee Shetterly & NASA mathematician, data analyst & aeronautical engineer Christine Darden / with additional reference images sourced from public domain via Google.
Swaziland, South Africa / Instagram @dablue_kiddie /
ADVERTISERS —
linktr.ee/dabluekiddie / photographer Guille Pozzi • @guillepozzi • Hawaii 182
136
A Flicker in a Cheap
Candle / poem by author Robert Dean / Instagram @literallyrobertdean / photographers Peter Bucks • @peterbucks • Paris, France &
5 Desja Chanel Boutique / San Antonio, Texas / stylist Des Torres / Instagram @desjachanel, @i_amdes_torres & @styledxdes / desjachanel.com 6 Seigar / Spain / Instagram @jseigar / seigar.wordpress.com
Ruan Richard Rodriguez • @heeybooy • Parobé, RS, Brazil 186
The Meaning of Mercy :
God’s Mercy Orphanage /
138
8 ZAPATA House / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @zapata.house /
directory.
@sinenkosi_msomii / web portfolio latitudes.online/artists/sine nkosi_msomi
zapatahouse.com 47
Melanie Allison Art Gallery /
artist Melanie Allison / Austin,
154 Body by Kraft / personal trainer, fitness experts Shawn Kraft / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @kraftfitness & @bodybykraft / kraftfitness.com / email shawn@kraftfitness.com
Texas / Instagram @melanieallisongallery / directory msha.ke/melanieallisongallery 58
Darkhorse Photography /
Michael Avila Christman / Instagram @darkhorsephotographysa &
157 Whole Heart Foods by Tina Sena / Tina Sena Fitness / New Braunfels, Texas / Instagram @tinasenaofficial / tinasena.org
@heliosmediatx / media portfolio vimeo.com/heliosmediatx 99
Artist K. Day Gomez / San
Antonio, Texas / Instagram @artist.kday / directory msha.ke/kdaygomez 104
158
AB Event Designers / San
Antonio , Texas / Instagram @ab_eventdesigners 113
Corey Layne Photography /
Austin, Texas / Instagram @coreylaynephoto / web
161 Live to be Balanced / author Stacey M. Dlouhy, MS, CHC / Book : “5 Simple Steps to Balance Your Messy Beautiful Life” / Available on Amazon / Instagram @live2bbalanced / live2bbalanced.com
directory linktr.ee/Coreylaynephoto 116
NOVEM Cuisine / chef Joe
A. Gomez III / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram
162
178 Neurodivergent Child Artist Aiden Gamez / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @i.am.aide.g / msha.ke/artistaideng
@novem.cuisine / novemcuisine.weebly.com 124
MOVIE : Brother’s Keeper /
Hartfield Consulting LLC / Broadcasting & Media Company — San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @hcpostproduction 145
Sinenkosi Msomi /
Mbabane, Mpolonjeni Swaziland, Africa / Instagram
184 Author Robert Dean / Austin, Texas / Instagram @literallyrobertdean / book : barnesandnoble.com/w/exi stential-thirst-trap-robertdean/1142963685 185 Author Njabulo Nkambule / Swaziland, South Africa / Instagram
directory. NONPROFITS —
@dablue_kiddie / linktr.ee/dabluekiddie 191
PEPPER Magazine proudly supports the following nonprofit organizations & community efforts, and we
Stacey Rae Olivares-
Garcia / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @staceyraeofficial
strongly encourage our readers to do the same.
/ cloverbudphotography.com 214
bokcreative inc. /
179
Los Angeles, California • Austin, Texas / Instagram
Please take a moment to look them up, follow, learn, volunteer or donate.
@bokcreative / bokcreative.com
• Srow Zar Children organization, Afghanistan
227
Instagram @srowzarchildren
Clinician Itxia Lee
Acevedo of POUT MedSpa
• Kearing Foundation for Orphans living with HIV, Uganda
/San Antonio, Texas / poutmedspa.com / / Instagram @pout_itxialee /
@kearing_foundation_ug
ad created by K. Day Gomez 239
• Bamunanika Children’s Home, Uganda Instagram @bamunanika_charity_foun dation
RETURN OF THE
MATRIARCH / Andrea 'Vocab' Sanderson × Aminah Decé / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram
• We Care Wildlife Sanctuar,
@returnofthematriarch /
Lakehills, Texas Instagram @wecarewildlifesanctuary
roftm.com 240
This Is Jane Project /
Colorado • California / Instagram @thisisjaneproject / linktr.ee/thisisjaneproject_
181
• Alora Farm nonprofit for Neurodivergent teens & adults on the Autism spectrum, Lakehills, Texas Instagram @alora_farm • Geofrey Foundation for Kids nonprofit organization, Uganda Instagram @hope_up_for_kids • God’s Mercy Orphanage, Uganda • Instagram @christ_alone44
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Since our public launch in May of 2022, we’ve also proudly supported through GoFundMe (and other means): The MAC • Literacy • Ukrainian San Antonio • Autism Advocacy • Uvalde Families post tragedy… And more; and this is only the beginning.
OUR MISSION
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SUPPORT THE ARTS • FAIR WAGES FOR CREATIVES • SHOP SMALL BUSINESS • CURATE SUSTAINABLE ETHICALLY SOURCED FASHION • RECYCLE • BE KIND • REPEAT
directory.
POUT MedSpa PA-C & Certified Injector • Bilingual Clinician
“I help enhance your natural beauty.” -Itxia Lee
@pout_itxialee
poutmedspa.com
Servicing San Antonio, TX
PEPPER STAFF K. DAY GOMEZ CEO & EDITOR IN CHIEF Hello, my name is Kathleen. I am a neurodivegent mother, wife and wearer of many hats. I’m an internationally published artist, author, creative consultant and intuitive life coach. I also sit on the Advisory Board of the Alora Farm nonprofit for adult autists. I’ve been a photojournalist, art illustrator and content writer for various publications and blogs for over two decades. I formerly held a modeling career for over 17 years that led to acting and directing, which I still may pursue in the future. I always seek to be of the most help to our community and global humanitarian issues any way I can. It was with this intention that I founded PEPPER Magazine. As a creative, and member of the LGBTQ community, it is also my intent that the publication be inclusive, diverse and support marginalized communities and those with varied abilities / disabilities by creating a safe space for all to be heard. Thank you for taking the time to learn about our mission. I anticipate great things for the future.
JOE A. GOMEZ III CFO & MARKETING DIRECTOR An all-American Texas boy born and raised in
San Antonio, Joe A. Gomez III has been a strong community leader, a humanitarian and a true lover of life. A former city councilman having served on the board of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce for several years, he's also the founder of JAG Enterprises with over 23 years of management experience. He is now PEPPER Magazine's CFO & Key Lifestyle Contributor. A chef to rival most, despite not having been classically trained, Joe's culinary expertise is impeccable. Enough so that over time he began to develop the ground work for what is now called NOVEM Cuisine. Since the founding of NOVEM, chef Joe's recipes have become more diverse and in turn, the public attention has grown. This has led to multiple international publications, to include London and Manchester, UK. And if you have the luck of tasting his food you'll understand why. There is no detail that escapes him, and the care he puts into the preparation and plating of every meal is nothing shy of five-star dining. The pièce de résistance is having him prepare it right from the comfort of the best restaurant in town; your own home.
BECKY WITTEMARSH SUSTAINABLE FASHION & LIFESTYLE EXPERT Becky found her passion for sustainable fashion and home furnishings at an early age when being sustainable was a necessity.
staff. A lifetime of creating her own personal style through sustainable sources, got the attention of those around her. Today, her innovative creations using vintage, thrift and self-made items will inspire a new way to look at dressing and styling your home. Becky will help you turn style sustainability from an inconvenience into an ADVENTURE!
ANDREA ‘ VOCAB’ SANDERSON POET LAUREATE Poet Laureate 20202023, performs as “Vocab” in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas. ”Watching her perform, the word “hero” comes to mind. And not “hero” for the sake of just skill, but for her work in her community: Sanderson teaches poetry workshops, mentors, builds up and encourages artists to pursue their art, and gives them platforms to showcase their talent. Sanderson’s interest in other people’s art and artistic development became a passion of hers, and she started curating her own shows and creating platforms for other artists to hone their craft by hosting open mics.” -The San Antonio Current, Jan. 16, 2018 She received awards, Performer of the Year, Influencer of the Year, from Project Forward, and Dream Voice, from the Dream Week Commission. Sanderson is the winner of the 2019 People’s Choice Award, awarded by Luminaria Artist Foundation (formerly
known as: Artist Foundation of San Antonio). In May of 2020 she was awarded Best Live Entertainment/Band Musician of the Year by the SEA Awards.
TINA SENA NUTRITIONIST & FITNESS EXPERT Hi, my name is Tina Sena and it has been my passion to motivate, inspire and encourage others to achieve health and wellness physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. For 24 years now I have been doing personal training, nutrition consulting, kids programs, developing a protein line of sweet treats and running my own businesses. I am a spouse and also a real estate business partner with my husband Michael, and we have a beautiful 13 year old daughter named Mia. It is my desire to build a community where we can share with others all the knowledge we have accumulated over the years to help create total health and wellness in their lives. I was an only child who grew up in a home with a mentally ill father and a mother who, although very strong, was also riddled with fear and anxiety while working all the time to provide for our family. We had very little so I was terribly ridiculed in school. I saw my first therapist at the age of 10. My father passed away at 44 and as a very independent 20 year old I was on a mission to help others to not suffer in all the ways myself and my family did physically, mentally and emotionally.
staff. Ibecame a personal trainer about 24 years ago while I was working as a model and living a completely unhealthy lifestyle. I wanted so much to have lean, sexy muscles which was a no no back then in that world. So I hired my first personal trainer who taught me how to lift weights and eat properly. I never felt better! My body, mind and health completely changed and off I went. I began training for triathlons and fitness competitions with some of the best trainers and decided that was it - I wanted to do for others what they had all done for me. So off to work I went. I am now an upscale fitness facility owner, protein treats line developer and I organize a nonprofit program changing the course for kids! I believe that we all have the power within us to get past the pain we endure in life. We just need the proper guidance and resources to get us there! It means everything to me to help my community to be encouraged and feel love and support through what might be their most challenging journey.....working on ourselves!!!”
ROBERT DEAN JOURNALIST & AUTHOR [In his own words...] Robert Dean is a journalist, raconteur, and ‘enlightened dumbass’. His work has been featured in places like MIC, Eater, Fatherly, Yahoo, Austin AmericanStatesman, Consequence of Sound, Ozy, USA Today, to name a few. He’s appeared on CNN and NPR. He also serves as features writer for Hussy Magazine and is editor in chief for Big Laugh Comedy, Texas’ biggest comedy production company. He lives in Austin and loves ice cream and koalas.
CRYSTAL LOPEZ-CREBS MOTIVATIONAL MINDSET COACH Crystal Lopez-Crebs received her degree in Fashion Design & Marketing from The International Academy of Design & Technology in Tampa, FL. She also interned with designer Tracy Reese in New York learning the ropes of New York Fashion Week (NYFW).
She owned an entertainment company in Tampa where she created costumes, did makeup, and stylized looks for her team. After moving to Texas, she mastered her crafts in the makeup industry working for MAC Cosmetics. She has also done makeup for LA & San Antonio Fashion Week, worked on film sets as both talent and wardrobe & production design, and developed her fashion production skills at Neiman Marcus. Crystal is now the talent coordinator for X Level Inc, a creative agency in San Antonio, TX, where she helps scout and develop talent. She is also the founder of the nonprofit, Fashionable Adoptions, that promotes animal adoption through fun fashion events, most notably her fashion shows that showcase adoptable animals walking the runway. She’s helped many people (and animals) improve their lives with her health & wellness business alongside her husband, especially through her story overcoming a health challenge. She loves to talk about vision and mindset to her audience to empower them to live a bigger life. Her unique style and excitement for living a healthy life can be felt as she shares her passions on social media
staff. and in person. Crystal brings her bright light & energy to inspire everyone to live an abundantly beautiful & healthy life from the inside out.
CHAZ NIELL PHOTOJOURNALIST Based in Washington DC, Chaz is an award-winning photographer with over 15 years of experience telling stories through his art to capture the emotion of every subject whether in sports, fashion, entertainment or social consciousness. He has long been a fan of the visual arts and his passion led him to attend the Art Institute of Pittsburgh where he was able to explore all facets of the industry and discover his deep passion for photography. Chaz Niell shares the philosophy of the great Nina Simone “as an artist it’s his duty to reflect the times in which he finds himself.” “How can I be an artist and not reflect the times”? His work has been featured in highly acclaimed periodicals and publications, such as Sports Illustrated, Rolling Stones, The Wall Street Journal, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, Forbes, and Paris Match just to name a few. In addition, footwear manufacturer Nike in 2019 displayed his awe-inspiring photo of tennis champion Rafael Nadal on their New York City digital broad at 34th & 7th Ave. one block from Madison Square Garden. Chaz has also been commissioned to shoot the David Ortiz Celebrity Golf Classic, Hampton International Film Festival, New Balance, Art and Commerce, and British fashion retailer, AllSaints. His photographs
also appear in Leica Fotografie International (LFI) galleries. He is an official Getty Images contributor. His love for fashion and the creative philosophy “Dress every day like you’re going to Jimi Hendrix’s funeral” gives him the freedom to express the many sides of the Gemini that resides in him. We are honored to have him as a contributing member of the PEPPER Magazine team.
NJABULO NKAMBULE AUTHOR & POET Njabulo Nkambule also known as Njabulo N. is a writer, a poet hailing from the Kingdom Swaziland. “I'm also an author of the soon to be published anthology, DEEP-ROOTEDWORDS which will include mainly my written poems. I’m a devoted,multipassionate, hardworking poet with a keen eye for detail and an insatiable interest in the use of the written word. I'm one person who is so passionate about poetry having so many written poems under my name (not yet published). My writings (poems) include quite a number of poetic forms including rhymed poetry, narrative poetry, pastoral poetry, elegies poetry, limerick poetry, lyric and soliloquy poetry.” PEPPER is enriched by the presence and liter contributions of this gifted writer and we are excited to see how he helps to shape the overall landscape of our publication over time.
staff. scene from the late 1960’s forward. Over time, we will be sharing these archives which range from obscure to iconic. We are grateful to have Norman as part of our team. Currently, he is engaged in the development process as a key interview subject for our first documentary about the history of SAMOMA. In conjunction with our cinematographer Michael Avila Christman and editor in chief who is key interviewer for the independent filming project, Norman is providing priceless facts and contacts for the film’s creation.
MICHAEL AVILA CHRISTMAN DIRECTOR & CINEMATOGRAPHER Founder of Darkhorse Photography, as well as his media company Helios, San Antonio native creative professional Michael
Avila Christman is a fixture here. His projects range from short film to documentary to commercials to editorial fashion photography. He’s worked with well known models, designers, makeup artists, musicians, local celebrities and other professionals throughout his expansive career. Now, Michael is taking his passion for journalism and theatrical storytelling to new heights by collaborating with PEPPER Magazine and taking on a staff contributor role. He will be responsible for the majority of commercial video content for the
publication through his tenure to come.
STACEY RAE OLIVARESGARCIA PHOTOJOURNALIST Stacey is a San Antonio native, growing up down
the road from Karam's Mexican Restaurant and The Malt House. While residing in Austin, Stacey began to grow her passion for photojournalism by capturing the heart of the person behind the lens. She wanted to bring this fresh outlook with her to San Antonio. Returning to her hometown allowed her to focus on the art in a person's story. Stacey's work has been featured in several magazines such as; Entertainment Tonight Online, Voyage Houston, and S.A. Scene Magazine. She has captured photos for multiple businesses across various industries including Luzianne Tea and August Ink. er creative eye and ability to capture her H subjects’ stories with grace and dignity makes Olivares-Garcia the perfect addition to the PEPPER team.
MELANIE ALLISON NETWORKING LIAISON One day, I decided to take life by the (long)horns and got back to my roots by modeling
staff. and painting again. I wanted to break the fashion industry standards and stigmas by creating a need for a petite and classic model. I started working with local photographers in the Austin area, building a new portfolio. Soon I discovered independent magazines and learned how to submit my work. I was finally published and on the cover of a magazine for the first time in October 2016. Soon after that, I was signed with TL Modeling Agency in Houston, Texas. But things don’t always go as planned. After enduring occasional rejection from magazine editors, I founded my own art & fashion magazine called Bevie in November 2016. My mission with Bevie was to showcase emerging, local and international talent such as artists, models, photographers, designers, and other creatives. By making a sophisticated publication more approachable, I was able to help my fellow colleagues get established or further along in their career. After two years of publishing my bimonthly mag, I decided to go back to work full-time and the last issue was released in December 2018. Bevie still has quite the following today! Today, I am now focused on creating mixed media art, establishing my networking event, turned group called Girl Flock Party, and becoming a part of the local artist community. It has been an amazing journey and I am grateful for every experience along the way!” Melanie is a great asset to the PEPPER team and provides valuable guidance, lead finding and creative / marketing advice from her home base in the Georgetown / Austin area.
ROMY NAVA HEALING PRACTITIONER Romy Nava has been actively developing his gift as a healer since the beginning of 2013. As a Sound Healing and Reiki practitioner, he has formulated a signature holistic protocol.
His clients are comforted and claim to experience a relaxed calming sensation for days following each session he provides. Also a media tech and podcast host, Romy aims to educate and hold space for enlightened thought by way of his platform. He establishes a dialogue that is relatable with the intention of getting to the core of the human psyche, spirit and mind-body connection. He examines the choices we make vs. practical and functional resolution. All of this expertise and experience makes him an incredible asset to PEPPER Magazine. Say hello to Romy and open yourself up to learning something new… maybe even about yourself.
ANDREW BARRAZA MEN’S GROOMING STYLE CONSULTANT Andrew is a graphic novel artist & comic book enthusiast who also happens to be a mustache connoisseur. “Men are always just kinda left out when it comes to
staff. grooming topics. I had to learn all my tricks on the street. I’m and ambassador for a couple of stache grooming brands. It’s been a blast growing it, helping others with tips and making new friends. I still draw when I have the chance. Love comics and art.” He is here to lend PEPPER Magazine his expertise in mens grooming, the subcultural aspect that goes along with this niche and other great products, tips and resources for men. “It’s really funny, without knowing when I got into it, there’s a giant mustache community out there of dudes that are happy to encourage, give tips, even help out with charities and events. One of the companies that I ambassador for donates part of every sale to first responders. Turns out there’s a lot of firemen that make and sell mustache wax also. And seeing people randomly, I ALWAYS get compliments from people. And I’m happy they think it’s cool and get a kick outta it. Even gotten some free beers in the bars. That’s worth it right there alone.”
SINENKOSI MSOMI PHOTOJOURNALIST & CONCEPTUAL ARTIST Sinenkosi Msomi is an exceptional photographer born in Eswatini and currently residing in Mbabane, Mpolonjeni. His work consists of staged and conceptual photography. The themes contained in his
work include addressing mental health issues, the importance of self-expressions and exploring the significance of one's childhood memories. His upbringing plays a major role in how his work eventually plays out. He recollects the different sides of growing up in an African extended family and how that helped shape him. His pictures help him talk about things that he sometimes finds no words to fully express. Msomi is an incredible asset to PEPPER Magazine and will continue to work remotely, bringing impactful documentary through the personal and unique storytelling of his imagery.
ALYSE DEANDA NETWORKING LIAISON & SPECIALIST Alyse Deanda is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Blooming Social, a social media marketing and management agency. She assists small businesses as they navigate the complex world of Digital Marketing for the first time. She has also assisted multi-billion dollar businesses in accomplishing their marketing goals. In 2022, she founded Wild Bloom Vintage, a women’s fashion e-boutique that is focused on sourcing sustainable women’s fashion and nicknacks. Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Alyse now resides in San Antonio, Texas. She is a proud alumna of St. Mary's University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications. She is a model and
staff. actress with representation in San Antonio, TX, Shreveport, LA and NYC, NY. Alyse has worked in the fashion industry both behind the scenes as well as in the spotlight for almost a decade. In addition, she is proud to serve on the Board of Directors of FerrariKid, a nonprofit organization that is focused on bringing joy to children battling cancer and chronic illness. As a networking liaison for PEPPER Magazine, Alyse will be pulling from her wealth of experience and knowledge to guide networking, gather leads and connect nonprofits and businesses with our publishing firm.
COREY DAVENPORT
into something that I have excitedly worked on for the last 13+ years. Whether it be going to local venues, traveling for festivals, or touring with bands on and off over the years. My opportunity to capture the raw emotion of the artists is an experience that will never cease to fill me with joy. With more doors opening, I plan to continue learning about, and expanding my craft, while striving for more new experiences throughout my ever growing life as a photographer.” Corey will be covering various leads and events for PEPPER in Austin and surrounding areas. He’s also working on showcasing some intense and striking documentary imagery from his archives over time.
CHARITY STEWART
PHOTOJOURNALIST A Texas native, with a curiosity of the human experience. “Having always been fascinated by the psychology / sociology of people, while also lacking the ability to focus my interests, and thoughts into words, I knew at a young age that photography was my outlet to show the world what I see. With inspiration from some of the classic greats like Elliot Erwitt, Gary Winogrand, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Weegee, my passion for street photography/photojournalism will continue to be the driving force behind what I do with a camera. Living in Austin, TX for the majority of my life, has also given me the best environment to mix my love of music, and photography
STYLE CONSULTANT “My name is Charity Stewart. I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I am a very family oriented person I grew up with two sisters and a brother. In high school is where I met my now husband, we have been together since 2015 and have been married since 2021. I went to Sam Houston State University to run track and I majored in business. I moved to San Antonio in 2021. I am a licensed disability job coach. One of my passions is helping people and being certified allowed me the opportunity to help people with disabilities from the ages of 17-23 find a job and be equipped for the workforce. Currently I work as a barista at Press Coffee
staff. and also at Mint Vintage. My husband and I are in the process of launching our brand called Team Faithful. We started this because we want to encourage young couples to stay committed and honor each other despite what the culture is saying today. We believe that life is about community and helping others which makes me so happy to be a part of PEPPER Magazine where helping people is in our DNA. Growing up, I have always had a passion for fashion. I remember getting up on Saturdays to put outfits together and giving my family a fashion show in the living room. Now as an adult I am able to make a fashion show for myself every day and also for PEPPER Magazine.” Charity will be sharing her favorite fashion and beauty tips, hacks and trends (old and new) as well as the brands and entrepreneurs she recommends in her own column.
old (when I was published in an international magazine) and picked up photography over a decade ago, always pushing myself and my equipment as far as I could, developing my style to show people how vibrant, beautiful, and varied the world is. I have sold prints of my photography, as well as being published in periodicals. Pepper will be the first publication where I will be contributing regularly as I've spent several years focusing on horse training and more recently, being a single mom to a very bright and busy toddler. I am so excited to be part of Pepper, and I hope we'll be seeing each other for a long time to come!"
JONATHAN DARREN GARCIA FLASH FICTION WRITER
SEFRA SCHWAB PHOTOJOURNALIST “I'm Sefra, and while I have a lot of interests that I feel deeply about, the most important things to me are my faith, my daughter, and my deep-seated love for animals and the people who love them (especially horses). As a recently diagnosed autistic following several years of misdiagnoses, I have an intense interest in philosophy and all the different ways that humans are. I have been writing - mostly poetry, and short stories - since I was about 10 years
Jonathan Darren Garcia is a San Antonio based writer. He was a featured poet in That Gray Zine: San Antonio's Collective Carefest. He has been published in multiple literary magazines including Crepe & Penn (Now known as C&P Quarterly), Scum Gentry Alternative Arts, Beyond The Veil, From Whisper To Roars, Royal Rose, etc. Notable works include "You Both Need To Leave Right now!", "The Energy Of A Stone" and "Samson". He dreams of a story worth telling. On his off time he enjoys a good cup of coffee from one of the many local spots in San Antonio. With his compelling handle on the flash fiction genre, Jonathan will maintain a gripping monthly column in PEPPER Magazine.
staff. SEIGAR
MANDY KADURA
PHOTOJOURNALIST & CONCEPTUAL ARTIST
PHOTOGRAPHER
Seigar is a passionate travel, street, socialdocumentary, conceptual, and pop visual artist based in Tenerife, Spain. He feels obsessed with the pop culture that he shows in his works. He has explored photography, video art, writing, and collage. He writes for some media. His main inspirations are traveling and people. Seigar’s aim as an artist is to tell tales with his camera, creating a continuous storyline from his trips and encounters. He is a philologist and works as a secondary school teacher. He is a self-taught visual artist, though he has done a two years course in advanced photography and one in cinema and television. He has participated in several international exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events. His works have been featured in numerous publications worldwide. His latest interests are documenting identity and spreading the message of the Latin phrase: Carpe Diem. Recently, he received the Rafael Ramos García International Photography Award. He shares art and culture in his blog: Pop Sonality. Currently, Seigar is our travel columnist, heading out the section with his “Tales of” series. We look forward to learning about the world around us through his skillful and artful lens.
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Hi, my name is Mandy Rose. Im a wife, mother, and entrepreneur—I own Infinite Photography SA. I believe in the power of art and media. “Art is chaos taking shape” —Pablo Picasso My photography is an expression of who I am and what I stand for : love, life, and creativity. I’ve been a photographer for 10 years. Five years into the art, I created my business Infinite photography SA. After that, I never stopped my momentum. I now own 2 businesses and have become the entrepreneur I always wanted to be [with Dropyourlashes being my second business]. I have worked with many families along my career and recently broke my way into the fashion industry. It’s exciting to have an outlet to create more art. To me, being able to be a part of Pepper Magazine—a world wide publication—is an honor and I am so excited to provide quality images for a magazine that I myself have supported and continue to read and follow.
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staff. JOHN HENDRICK PHOTOJOURNALIST & CONCEPTUAL ARTIST Born in the Bronx, New York, and raised in Queens. John’s artistic upbringing and his path to photography began shortly after his parent's separation when he was seven years old. He initially lived with his father, who would provide the foundation for his artistic eye, having John learn to play the piano, draw, and paint to stay off the streets.
vision, feeding off of the Bauhaus movement working in color and abstract compositions, making his name as one of the up-andcoming street photographers working in color; if you look hard enough, you can find hints of being raised by a single mom, his independence, and gestures of kindness.
He would then go on to live with his mother, where he would spend much of his youth raised by his mother, a single mom of two. His mother worked nights, and his brother, who was four years older, was never home, leading John to become accustomed to independence. John grew up skateboarding in the mid-’80s and into the late ’90s when NYC was the melting pot of pop culture. Without knowing it, this would start his photographic journey, always carrying a camera and taking pictures of his friends. He worked as a messenger, becoming familiar with every inch of the city. Soon after, he would work at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, expanding his artistic vocabulary surrounded by the works of all the greats. For the past 23 years, John has traveled worldwide and lived abroad in countries such as Italy, Spain, and Japan; each location is inspiring and influences his point of view. Currently, he lives in San Antonio, where he teaches photography at the Southwest School of Art. After all these years of traveling and photographing the world, he has found his artistic voice and this creative
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