The Snow Dance, sensual and artistic, mesmerized all who watched it. Adorned in a glistening white kimono, Sayuri graced the Japanese stage slowly, her arms reaching for the life she believed would never come. The snow, falling effortlessly around her, symbolized her transformation. Once soft like the rain, she had now become cold like ice. All was laid bare on the stage: her wounded past, her uncertain present, and a future that relied solely on hope. Portraying the character so passionately, Beijing born actress Zhang Ziyi illustrated part of her own story during the film. Though she was never a geisha, Zhang was more than familiar with her character’s personality. “There are only two sides to one’s personality: it’s either tough or soft,” she told Time Out Shanghai. Like her character in Memoirs of a Geisha, she too has developed  tough skin, but has maintained a soft spoken demeanor, generous heart and feminine grace.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

Typically, when people think of models they envision the gold standard of beauty—they have an unblemished, picturesque look. In the fashion world, imperfections are stigmatized while flawlessness is coveted. Models are constantly in the public eye and endure grueling regimens to maintain a polished image. With such a narrow interpretation of beauty, it can be very difficult for aspiring models to break into the fashion industry, especially for someone who doesn’t fit the norm. If you don’t conform to the standard, your chances for success are virtually nonexistent. However, there are always exceptions. By shattering the mold, Winnie Harlow has defied industry standards and become one of the most popular fashion models in the world.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

ryan4“We were created to be creators,” the  Atlanta  saxophonist informed me before the release party for his debut album began. Despite having just arrived home from touring with the legendary Stevie Wonder, fourth generation saxophonist Ryan Kilgore was full of energy and eager to talk. His stylish dark brown suit, paired with a crisp collared white shirt, and playful polka dot bowtie, hinted at his ability to create a well put together outfit. The musical note design cut into his hair marked him as a musician while further validating his playful style. But his fashion sense is no match for his God-given musical talent. “Just Walk,” his latest project, illustrated the very essence of his story: walking into destiny.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

david3Art galleries aren't the only places where art is showcased. The innumerable places one can run across a great piece is mind blowing. Some places where you might expect to see fine art are inside of museums and historic buildings. Other places that are not as conventional, are typically tied to street art. These pieces are scattered about on the outside of train cars, and sometimes painted on the sides of buildings. Muralist, David Walker has been fortunate enough to have his work displayed in some of these unconventional places, and all over the world.

You are unauthorized to view this page.

mca2

Athletes these days (especially high profile ones) have brands that they are responsible for. The Lebron James and Peyton Mannings of the world already need more hours in a day for all of the things they set out to achieve on the field and on the court as it is. Throw in the business goals they want to accomplish, and it's impossible  not to wonder how they manage to keep themselves sane. Here's a secret, the same tactic that they utilized to get a ring also works in business.  It’s all about teamwork. Lebron, the consummate unselfish teammate and epitome of the phrase “leader of his team,”benefits from having a similar leader of his brand. That guy is his longtime friend and business partner, Maverick Carter.

You are unauthorized to view this page.