Wawi Amasha is among an emerging generation of Kenyan artists working and living in the USA. With a professional career spanning almost two years, the artist draws inspiration from her home country. Themes of her work mirrors varied aspects of Kenyan culture. She was born and raised by her grandmother in a small village in Embu district, about 220 miles from Nairobi, Kenya.
A keen study of her paintings reveals a seemingly deliberate lack of facial features on her subjects, She says: "This is a technique meant to portray the faceless nature of African people as viewed by the rest of the world". But lately she is branching out to more detailed paintings while still staying true to her own original style.
If you look carefully, you will find that she places a giraffe in most of her paintings. She does this in honor of her grandfather whose name "Ndwiga" in her language means giraffe.
Now Residing in Santa Monica, California, Wawi has devoted her life to her passion. She already has been featured in SOUL MAGAZINE, MIMI MAGAZINE and AFRICAN COLOURS.NET as one of the rising stars in the Africa Art scene.
Amasha wants to discover and explore different mediums in her efforts to provide inspiring art to her already growing fan base. But more importantly, she seeks to create art that will inspire people. She wants her art to promote Love, Peace, and unity for all humanity.
"The world is filled with so much pain and suffering, and I believe Art is supposed to heal us" - Wawi Amasha
Jesse Raudales: World-Famous Olympic, Celebrity Artist
For any artist, it would be a dream-come true to be selected as one of the official artists for the Olympics. That dream is now a reality for Jesse Raudales, a North Hollywood based artist, who was selected among thousands of applicants to represent the 2006 Olympic games, standing next to his fellow Olympians, Jane Seymore and Peter Maxx. His Olympic painting, "Peace for the Children of the World," opened in California, toured to New York and then went on to the Olympic Games in Torino, Italy.
Since becoming an Olympian, Raudales has been honored by the NAACP, FBI, Warner Bros. and the EPICC Center and featured as a rising artist in international press. Raudales was the only minority artist chosen for the 2006 Olympic Games and has received high praise for his passion to paint and dedication as a father.
His artwork has been featured on television (Martin, Living Single and Higher Learning) and in the homes of many celebrities including Academy Award nominee, Terrence Howard, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and the legendary, Rick James. He has also designed logos and airbrushed fashion concepts for celebrities such as MC Hammer and the late James Brown. His list of accomplishments also includes designing logos for Martin L. King III, basketball star, Dwayne Wade and the official Miss USA Pageant logo for the Donald Trump.
The story of Raudales begins in North Carolina and has captured the hearts of many. Born stillborn, his mother prayed to God to let her son live. She coddled him for several minutes and miraculously, Jesse gasped for air and was brought to life. His mother honored her gift from God by naming her son Jesus Guadalupe Raudales but after several years of being teased at school, he was later nicknamed Jesse.
Jesse Raudales is active in his community and continues to donate his originals to a variety of nonprofits including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Zo's Summer Grove, Sparks Of Hope, Inc., The OASIS, Hands United Together, and the Boys and Girls Club of America.
In February 2007, his Peace for the Children art show was hosted by long-time friend and client, Terrence Howard, and was held at CCH Pounder's (The Shield) art gallery (Pounder Kone Art Space). Jesse showcased five original paintings marked with the handprint of his son, Jesse Jr., honoring children around the world who are victims of child abuse. These limited edition paintings continue to be auctioned off for children's charities.
Jesse's most recent shows include Colors to Life Beautiful, a group exhibition inspired by Alice Walker's Color Purple at the 626 Gallery at Studio B in downtown LA's gallery row and his solo show, My Real Name is Jesus, hosted by Jermaine Jackson which was also held at 626, focusing on his life story and the inspiration behind his most versatile works. His art has been showcased at many galleries and private shows around the world including Epoxybox, Chase Mitchell, Million Dollar Make the Discovery Retreat for the Oscars and at the home of Miguel Nunez, Jr. (Joey, Kickin' It Old School). The Raudales fashion line, reprints and custom merchandise of his original artwork can be purchased on his online gallery.
"Jesse, being an Olympic Artist is a major accomplishment for any artist. As you know artist from Matisse to Andy Warhol, Jim Dine and Roy Lichtenstein have been artist chosen to commemorate the Olympic Games. Welcome to the Olympic Art Family." --Jack Scharr, President
Back in June 2007, during my trip to Kenya, I found myself in the market place buying loads of fabric because the colors were so rich and beautiful and the prices were great. I really didn't know what I was going to do with that much fabric, but I didn't care, I wanted it and so I got it. When I got back to Santa Monica, I was inspired to make a dress to wear to a friends' wedding using one of my many fabrics that I had purchased. The dress was gorgeous and I made a few for my friends too. I have since been experimenting with other designs and introducing them here to what have so far been rave reviews. Women have gone crazy over them and frequently stop me on the street to ask where I got them.
I use fabric found from all over Africa. I mostly use "The Khanga", a cloth also known as Lesu which is a simple piece of often brightly colored rectangular cloth which is wrapped round the body. It is a common sight in villages and towns across East Africa. Khangas use a variety of African sayings, idioms, proverbs, slogans, expressions, idioms and riddles in Swahili and English. These sayings must be understood in their cultural and social contexts. It is important to understand that many of the sayings are intended to be a commentary on the lives of East African women and their complex relationships. Many of the sayings are messages that women communicate to each other. Usually the saying is printed on the bottom middle of the cloth.
No matter where in Africa the material comes from, my goal is to change the way people think about African fashion. Majority of young Africans choose to dress in a more western dress walking away from their traditional dress, but I understand why and that's why I want to change that by offering designs that still represent our African tradition but with a modern twist. These designs are fun, funky, and fabulous. They are to be enjoyed by women from all walks of life, especially those not afraid of color.
McGill's exclusive invitation only parties include positive networking with forward thinking people, discussions about world peace, art displays by renowned artists, fine wine, entertainment, and treaty signings all in exclusive, opulent five-star venues. Add a touch of positive class to your life at these exclusive "gatherings of light" which are intended to create relationships that will enrich and bless the attendees for a lifetime.
Steve Cooke is a singer/songwriter with a distinctive music & vocal style who captures the audience rendering a musical journey that spans soulful ballads to powerful and uplifting poetic performances. His lyrics and arrangements are timely, thoughtful and filled with melody. His songs have an indelible effect with a unique 12-string guitar sound that resonates a new era of popular music. At the beginning of his career Steve moved to London where he formed the band Endever, supported by an all-star band "The Dolphins," which included members of Fleetwood Mac, Pink Floyd, Brand X and later guitar legend Alvin Lee of Ten Years After. However, his talent didn't stop there, he's also played principle characters in UK hit musicals such as Broadway's "Hair" (US cast-European tour), "Godspell,""Jesus Christ Superstar" and The Who's "Tommy" at the Apollo Theatre in Oxford and performed lead roles in a number of English pantomimes. Over the last few years, Steve has focused on his own music and songwriting. He has filled many prestigious venues in Europe and The South Pacific and has performed for such luminaries as Prince Charles, William and Harry, Heidi Klum and Bill Clinton. In 2008 Steve even rocked Carlos Santana's after-party in Germany! He is currently running the Hollywood circuit, bringing down the house at legendary venues like the Viper Room and the House of Blues. His song "Live For The Moment" is making an impact during stadium broadcasts of international sports. In addition, he composed music for a recent Audi R8 campaign. With credentials like these, it's no wonder that Steve Cooke is carving out a name for himself in the world arena.
Alfred A. Dolezal: Master Artist and Symbolism Equivocator
About the Artist:"At an early age, I learned to appreciate the value of simple things in life and to trust that which was familiar. An avid artist even during my youth, my favorite school subjects were art and geometrical drawing. I soon discovered that by studying and copying the masters, I could sharpen my attention to details and teach myself the different technical aspects of painting. Through the years, however, I began to question the fundamental 'truths' about life. I started searching for answers and discovered that there was so much more to our existence than what meets the eye. My curiosity was stimulated and I began researching mythology, history, psychology, physics and metaphysics and combined these elements in my work. Now, I continue to explore these fields in order to understand the impact of the law of cause and effect and to decipher the code of human existence. Since beginning professional oil painting in 1963, I have completed over 250 works. My paintings often display cubistic and surrealistic tendencies, vibrant colors in dynamic combinations, evocative symbolism and thought-provoking imagery. I often employ the pigments of my imagination to reveal a mischievous, humorous side, a dry sarcasm and my love for the unexpected. My paintings illustrate the levels from which our thoughts draw their energy and create their consequences and help to explain why the world is our self-portrait. They elevate and enlighten the human consciousness through symbolic artwork and inspirational storytelling and they guide the viewer to discover inherent tools that will enable them to realize their fullest potential. My goal is to envision a blueprint that illustrates the connectivity of all life and to create a model that will awaken the human potential for a conscious evolution. When you look at my artwork, I invite you to venture beyond that which you think you know, to explore another realm of possibilities where art is much more than just a painting."
Jillie Reil was raised in rural Delano, Minnesota by parents who met in a candy factory after leaving their family farms. They joke that Jillie got her 'sweetness' from their union. Jillie could always make people laugh, and used this talent early in life to amuse friends and family. As a child, she often orchestrated skits, fashion shows and dance routines with her friends. She was affectionately nicknamed "Silly Jillie" and "Spilly Jillie" for her goofiness and clumsiness.
Influenced by her big brother and being a true adventurer at heart, Jillie enjoyed many 'tomboyish' pastimes, including riding snowmobiles, motorcycles, quads and jet skis, driving pick-up trucks, boating and ice fishing, playing hockey and golf, and watching sports. Nonetheless, her desire for creativity remained strong. Jillie was elected danceline captain, choreographing routines for the team and performing at high school sporting events and competitions. Along with an affinity for writing and poetry, she also dabbled in modeling as a teenager, but knew it wouldn't go far in Minnesota.
At 18 years old, Jillie turned her attention to more serious goals and went onto spend 15 years in real estate development and corporate law as she began pursuing a business career while obtaining an education at night. She graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in Organizational Management & Communication and an A.A. in Paralegal Studies, eventually holding acquisition management roles within land development companies.
Growing restless in Minnesota, Jillie finally moved to San Diego to enjoy the beautiful coastal weather while continuing her career in real estate and studying law. However, the bright lights of Hollywood a few hours away lured her back to her childhood dreams. Jillie switched gears, and began attending Cinema Makeup School in Los Angeles on the weekends to somehow become involved in the industry. Upon graduating, she demonstrated makeup lines, facial treatments and pharmaceuticals to salons, medical spas, plastic surgeons and dermatologists as well as specializing in beauty and wellness as a freelance journalist.
As fate would have it, on her second makeup artist job in San Diego, Jillie was asked to be the runway model instead of the makeup artist. Fashion, spokesmodel, runway and print work ensued shortly thereafter, which lead into local news and radio appearances, commercials and short films. Jillie fell in love with acting and comedy, and a year later, left her cherished beachside apartment in North San Diego for Hollywood to pursue her true passion in entertainment.
Jillie has appeared in feature films, television shows and reality-based shows, playing quirky lead or supporting characters such as Cheryl, the ditzy sidekick to the twisted plastic surgeons in the feature comedy, PARfection, Yoni, the frigid Tantric Yoga instructor in the sitcom pilot "Yoga Madness," and Roxanne, the porn star with a heart of gold in the Jerry Zucker/TBS sketch pilot "National Banana." She is also co-writing and producing a spiritual comedy feature film with Melissa "MOJO" Hunter (known for her overnight celebrity exposure on the Fox mega-hit reality TV show, "Joe Millionaire.") Jillie's witty sense of humor and sunny disposition keeps whisking her from one adventure to another, soaring straight to the top.
Spokane, WA: Microsoft Executive's Custom High-tech European-style Home
“CONTACT Marci at +1 509 217 5526”
Microsoft Executive's custom high-tech European-style home nestled on private 30+/- acre gated estate. Unmatched craftsmanship and timeless design, this 11,200+/-sqft home features 4+ bedroom suites, 9 bathrooms, 7 fireplaces, theater, steam room and exercise area.
Extensive use of alder and black walnut wood. Granite, marble & limestone throughout. This home features wood beam details, cathedral ceilings, his and hers offices, fiber optic wiring, geothermal radiant heating and cooling, Otis elevator (serves all 3 levels) and Lutron lighting system. Perfect for entertaining, the gourmet chef's kitchen boasts Wolf gas range and wall ovens, Sub-Zero refrigerators, refrigerated and warming drawers, large granite kitchen island, and nearby butler pantry kitchen.
Experience the taste of formal dining as rich flavors of alder wood built-in cabinetry and beautiful treed and mountain views complement one another. Informal dining is also set for you near the kitchen and family room. Daylight lower level features full second kitchen and laundry room. Enjoy the theater room's leather seating for 12, stage and HD 132" projection screen. Also enjoy separate winter/summer hot tubs, in-ground pool, shade pavilion with refrigerator, BBQ and fireplace, a heated potting shed, gated raised bed gardens and an oversized attached 4-car garage.
Don't forget to visit the 3,600+/-sqft cottage featuring a 1,000 sf conference room, office or game room, plus 1 bedroom, 1.5 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room guest suite. Lower-level 1,800 sqft 8 car garage with 12' doors, radiant heat, workshop and exterior parking. With no expense spared, this home is the ultimate in design and technology.
About 5 miles from Northwest Spokane City limits. 5 miles to the North Division "Y". About 11 miles from downtown Spokane. About 2 miles to Saint George's School. About 2 miles to launch a canoe into the Little Spokane River. About 7.5 miles to launch a boat on Lake Spokane. About 20 miles to Mt Spokane for hiking, skiing, riding horses, etc. About 45 miles to 49 Degrees North Ski Resort. About 40 miles to Coeur d'Alene Idaho.
David Markarian: Professional Playboy Photographer and Modeling Consultant
“Having a good time at Ken Marcus's 60th Birthday Party. CONTACT David at +1 760 409 3819”
My photography ranges from mainstream Fashion photography to nude and fetish work.
I started my photographic training 30 years ago with my father and later with my father's friend Bob Runyan in Seattle. Bob taught for Eastman Kodak professional workshops, was a National Geographic photographer for 10 years and taught extended educational classes in Photography for many years afterwards.
I attended college level photography courses for several years along with a number of photographic workshops and seminars throughout my career. My work has appeared in US and European magazines and many professional web sites.
I work with numerous models that have web sites and need updates for their sites regularly. My studio is located in the Palm Springs California area.
THERE IS NO CHARGE for Fetish TFPs. Only serious inquiries, which include a headshot and body shot, will be considered. Models will receive several CDs of all images edited and retouched.
MODEL PORTFOLIO shoots Please message me for price. A makeup and wardrobe stylist are extra and recommended. Paid portfolio shoots are all high-resolution images. I use a Canon EOS 1Ds camera. The EOS 1Ds camera produces images much better than 35mm film. I can make poster size prints from this camera. All Models will receive several CDs of all images edited and retouched. Models will get 3 to 4 looks per shoot including beauty headshots.
WEDDINGS Please message me for price Depending on location and how many prints are required. Traveling expenses are extra.
PRODUCT AND PRINT Depending on the project photography shoots Please message me for price per day plus expenses and licensing. licensing fees are based upon what the images are used for, where they will be used and the and the amount of time of use.
All shoots based on availability and discretion of photographer.
I also work with some of my photographer friends in Hollywood, California and Las Vegas, Nevada.
I've assisted Ken Marcus in Hollywood California with his work. Ken is a great photographer and friend. His credits include Playboy, Penthouse, Muscle & Fitness. Ken studied Fine-Art Photography under Ansel Adams in Yosemite for 13 years. Ken has taught advanced photographic technique and production through special classes, seminars and workshops at: The Tahoe Photographic Workshops. The Palm Beach Photographic Center, the Art Center College of Design and Brooks Institute of Photography. He also has produced an award winning Video Series on Professional Techniques of Glamour Photography. Ken Marcus began his career at 12 as the youngest student of famed landscape photographer Ansel Adams and worked his way up to become Playboy's top centerfold photographer. He is largely responsible for creating the "Playboy style" of photography. In addition to his magazine work he produced fine art and commercial photographs as well. Ken is now exploring the world of fetish and bondage in great depth.
I also work in Las Vegas, Nevada with a couple of great photographers. David Slaughter who was also a Brooks Institute of Photography teacher and his assistant Gary Miller at their studio in downtown Las Vegas. They are some of the largest content providers for models on the Internet and a great pleasure to work with as well.
Feel free to contact me regarding modeling, or anything else. New friends and ideas are always welcome.
“MVP Ray Lewis, Ted Dance, Hines Ward, and Tim Dance”
When I was about 10 years old, I remember a gentleman knocking at our door. He was looking for young boys who wanted to sign up for a new youth football league that was just getting started. I remember my mom looking down at me and asking me if I wanted to sign up. With a very big smile, I said, "yes."
I first got involved in sports around the age of 5, playing in the backyard of our home. Athletics played a very important part in our lives. I have many great memories from youth football from the experience to meeting new friends. Being on a team and competing helped to teach me many positive lessons in life that can be applied even now. Sports, family, and the love of my mother helped to mold my own character and integrity.
My mother was a single parent raising four children and influenced my life dramatically. I have learned to appreciate those formative times more now than ever before. Eventually, I entered high school and, needless to say, I continued to play football winning all state and all city honors.
I dreamed of playing college football and having a real shot at the pros. But, as life sometimes throws you a curve, I found that my whole world was about to change dramatically. While I was still very young, my high school sweetheart and I discovered that we were to become parents. I realized that raising my son with character and integrity was worth more to me than a million dollar contract in the NFL. Two wonderful sons and six years later, their mother decided to relocate alone and I was left in the position of being the only parent of my two young boys. It was a difficult time even with the support and example of my mother and grandfather. The opportunity arose for me to join the electrical union as an apprentice. After completing years of extensive training, I was able to obtain my Master Electrician's license and go into business for my family and myself. As time went on and my life changed, I established a mortgage brokerage company with which I am still busy and involved.
My sons have gone on to achieve on a level that many parents wouldn't dare to dream. I am so proud of their accomplishments on and off the field. I always hoped that they would both achieve success on and off the field, but I never imagined that both of them would achieve such great successes and carry such great strength of character and integrity. I wanted my sons to shoot for the moon, so at the very least they would be among the Stars!
My mother, a driving force in my life, passed away nearly four years ago. Her passing reminds me that life is short and tomorrow is never promised. She lit a torch for me that I strive to pass on to my sons and to their sons as well.
Playboy Celebrity Cruise to Ensenada and Party like a Rockstar with Bobbi Billard and Bryant McGill
Hottest Photo Contest - Chance of a lifetime... Party like a Rockstar with Billard and Bryant McGill! Secure Your State-Room Before They Are Sold Out! Try to WIN a free trip in this contest for hottest photo! Around 20 Girls will be selected by Bryant McGill to come party with the stars. Win a VIP celeb cruise, and even a NEW Mercedes Benz convertible, Cash, Modeling Contract & more...
September 14-17, 2007: San Pedro, CA to Ensenada Mexico and back.
Bobbi Billard is one of the Judges in the Miss Kandy Fashion Competition.
Bryant McGill is the Official Celebrity & VIP Ambassador
Treat yourself to an experience you will never forget.
Mingle with celebrities, millionaires, and playboy models...
500 Millionaires, business leaders, professionals and partiers
Over 1,200 beautiful hand-picked Playboy Playmates, Cyber Girls, Hot Pro-Models, and amature bombshells from around the world.
The most exclusive 3-Day Party of the year aboard a top-tier Royal Caribbean cruise liner. (Monarch of the Seas)
Private Parties in International Waters - almost anything goes...
Vegas style gambling, Maxim Invitation Poker Tournament in the Maxim Casino
Dance and Play All Weekend, Celebrity DJ's, Playboy Comedy Tour, Rock n' Roll shows, Themed lounges by America's hottest clubs...
The cruise is a full-ship charter, meaning we have taken over the entire ship! All of the parties, entertainment and programming for the cruise are designed to create the ultimate weekend experience.
Watch your money and be responsible the other 364 days of the year! You only live once. Let's make some memories! (Though if you win it is free!)
You do not pay the $2,500 dollar trip fee...
AND MODELS: We are the ONLY VIP host waving the mandatory $149 to $199 registration fee.
We are the center of the celebrity action on the cruise.
We are the only host also having a contest for men to win a free trip.