Tag: Massachusetts

Sticky post
Designer Interview, Fashion

YUSSUF KASSIM MANZI: Rooted in Tradition, Inspired by Innovation.

Paper Koi, Please help me welcome a true visionary in the fashion industry! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with a creative force behind his sightly self-titled clothing label that has been making waves for over five years. With a keen eye for detail and an innate ability to infuse clean architectural silhouettes and dark colors with an Afro-centric, neat, and unisex perspective, YUSSUF’s designs are a true reflection of his Tanzanian roots. I’m excited to dive into the mind of this talented clothing designer and learn more about his creative process. Welcome to the conversation, YUSSUF of YUSSUF KASSIM MANZI! Continue reading YUSSUF KASSIM MANZI: Rooted in Tradition, Inspired by Innovation.

G-MentalityLeave a comment
Art, Artist Interview, Interviews

Kazmik: A Glimpse Into Their Galvanic Paintings

This is for the readerz!! Get ya reading glasses and let’s get into it.  I had the chance to speak to a visually stimulating painter who is known on Instagram by name of, Kazmik. They paint these diverting images of femmes encased in dark surrealism. I found their art to be so appealing and as a curious follower, I wanted a peek into their mind-scape, … Continue reading Kazmik: A Glimpse Into Their Galvanic Paintings

G-MentalityLeave a comment
Interviews, Music, Music Interview

TaiXChi: Sustaining the Art of Formlessness within Rap Music

With trepidation, Paper Koi’s G-Mentality was able to interview a fascinating rapper by the name of, TaixChi (if you were not sure, the “x” is silent– strictly for name distinction). Hailing from the city of Springfield, Massachusetts, we were able to get a feel of who he is all while weigh in on his creations. The interview took an intriguing turn into his views on music and was warmly received with the rapper explaining that he wants to continue the magic of moving his audiences with his music. The interview radiates a wonderful aura of playfulness, fluidity, and a sense of rich familiarity. Continue reading TaiXChi: Sustaining the Art of Formlessness within Rap Music

G-MentalityLeave a comment
Fashion, Fashion Article, Featured

Getting “Spring Ready” with NEObyBryson

Amidst the COVID-19 we sincerely hope everyone is doing everything to stay as safe as possible. Although, one silver-lining coming out of this gray time is that springtime has quickly inched its way towards us with puzzled but open arms. While the media is scaring us with constant abrupt news updates on this unstoppable virus, I had the chance to touch base with one of Boston’s talented artists, Bryson Rainey, also known as NEObyBryson. Continue reading Getting “Spring Ready” with NEObyBryson

G-Mentality1 Comment
Culture, feelthefield

#FeelTheField: Hot Oven Cookies

Sharing the cookie love!  1597 Main St. Springfield, MA 01108 Monday: Closed — Tuesday: 11 am – 6 pm — Wednesday: 11 am – 6 pm — Thursday: 11 am – 6 pm  — Friday: 11 am – 6 pm — Saturday: 1 pm- 6 pm — Sunday: Closed VIBE:  Cozy cookie bakery where you could stop in for a surprising sweet snack.  Owner of Hot Oven Cookies, … Continue reading #FeelTheField: Hot Oven Cookies

G-MentalityLeave a comment
Interviews, Media Interview, Platform

Shakinah Starks: Trendsetter, Producer, & The Future

To celebrate Women’s History and Appreciation month, I spoke with one of the most creative people I know about her accomplishments. I had the pleasure of dishing hot takes with [the] quirky and artistic Shakinah Starks, a Massachusetts native currently pursuing dreams of being a producer in LA. We spoke about her emergence in the industry, changing the black woman’s narrative, and self care #TreatYoSelf.  Shakinah … Continue reading Shakinah Starks: Trendsetter, Producer, & The Future

G-Mentality2 Comments
Interviews, Music, Music Interview

JESUS SLOAN: The Meaning Behind His Name, Remaining An Individual In A Generic World, & How His Upbringing Has Influenced His Work

Jesus Sloan– when first hearing his name it could catch the average church goer off guard, but listening to his music could convert you without a doubt. With songs like “803” and his newest track “Amerie”, In my opinion he would probably be considered too good to be underground and too cool be overrated. I got the chance to sit down and talk to him … Continue reading JESUS SLOAN: The Meaning Behind His Name, Remaining An Individual In A Generic World, & How His Upbringing Has Influenced His Work

G-MentalityLeave a comment
Art, Artist Interview, Interviews

Bhen Alan: Studying at UMASS Dartmouth, Art Being All Around Us , & Using Art as a Form of Power.

Bhen Alan, 25, is a Fillipino Artist who attends UMASS Dartmouth. He was raised in the Philippines for seventeen years before emigrating to Canada. He lived there for three years until he finally moved to Wareham, Massachusetts for almost five years. Through his responses, he explains how he challenges ideas through his work and more.   Were you always creative or did you learn through … Continue reading Bhen Alan: Studying at UMASS Dartmouth, Art Being All Around Us , & Using Art as a Form of Power.

G-Mentality1 Comment
Interviews, Music, Music Interview

SHAMROK: His R&B/Hip-Hop Artistry, Wanting to work with Young Thug, & Culture Vultures

SHAMROK, 24, and I met up at Pulse Cafe, a plant-based restaurant located in Hadley, Massachusetts. Once we walked in, SHAMROK spotted their grand piano and immediately started playing. Disregarding the “Staff Only” sign on it, he began to play a mellow jazz tune immediately gaining the attention of others. Some of the staff politely asked if they could record him play, he kindly approved … Continue reading SHAMROK: His R&B/Hip-Hop Artistry, Wanting to work with Young Thug, & Culture Vultures

G-MentalityLeave a comment