VOL. 1 / NO. 5
SPECIAL FASHION EDITION SA / TX / US
be the change.
a rt x f ash i o n 6 Editor’s Note : The Art of Fashion
the revolutionaries. 14 [NOT] Another Cinderella Story 27 Concrete Similarity 38 Dark Star : Stephan Adam 43 Untitled Nine 62 Only Human 68 Indigenous : The Individual Warrior Within 78 République Nouveau : designer Austin Alegria & the new Texas
anthropology.
90 The Climb. Sinenkosi Msomi 92 Sacred Geometry : artist, designer & Rabbi Hanniel Levenson 100 Blue Dot 106 VESTIR SER / RETRATOS SIN CONDICIÓN 112 Moody & Blossom 116 The Pursuit of Perfection 122 My “Annie Hall” Moment • with Becky Witte-Marsh
high art. 128 Chameleon
134 The Princess Saves Herself in This One 139 The Oxford Collection : designer Seeun Kim
identity. 144 Self Portrait 150 Bucolique 153 Lonely Soul 158 Icon : Iris Apfel
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directory. 163 Cover Artist : Kelly O’Connor 171 Acknowledgments ??? Patrons & Partners ??? Staff Bios
PEPPER S P E C I A L E D I T I O N
no.1 in tribute.
October marks Texas Fashion week every year in San Antonio, Texas, where PEPPER Magazine is based. This special fashion edition is an homage to the hard working individuals and creatives within our home base arts & fashion community. With special thanks to Texas Fashion Industry Initiative 5013c for their impact & dedication to creating fair opportunities for industry entrepreneurs, students & artists, as well as promoting a progressive & inclusive culture for the future.
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awards. PEPPER Magazine has been named as one of only 3 nominees for the illustrious title of Magazine of the Year via the Texas Fashion Industry Awards, 2022. This is a pivotal moment for us and a commendation which we do not take lightly. Being our maiden year with only 5 issues behind us, it is an honor most high which we did not expect, yet are grateful for and humbled by. Many thanks to all of those who nominated our publication firm and to the board of the Texas Fashion Insusyry Initiative for considering us among such esteemed company. Our deepest gratitude to our city and the global fashion and arts community as a whole.
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
PEPPER
Magazine
EDITOR’S NOTE
ART OF FASHION
Editor in Chief K. Day Gomez San Antonio, Texas
“Fashion you can buy, but style you possess. The key to style is learning who you are, which takes years. There's no how-to road map to style. It's about self expression and, above all, attitude.” - Iris Apfel Of all the style and fashion icons throughout time, Iris Apfel has been my favorite. Her fearlessness in both dress and opinion has inspired a sort of courage in me that has been difficult to muster on my own, especially in social settings. I’m an eccentric creative—always have been. At age 5, I would mimic Jane Fonda in my workout leotard and ribbons I loosely fashioned into headbands, running all around my grandma’s house, leg warmers, Reeboks and all. In my teens, I was influenced heavily by grunge queen icons like Shirley Manson [Garbage], Courtney Love [Hole] and girl punk band Babes in Toyland. It wasn’t until my early twenties that I began to try to “fit in” with the average crowd. Seeking acceptance in all the wrong places, I muted my eclecticism, hid my imagination under JC Penny basics, stifled my individuality hoping to avoid the type of negative attention I’d 6
received back in school, now that the work place seemed to be one big continuation of the high school dynamic. I was obviously unhappy. But worse of all, I’d lost touch with who I was. We’re not really taught in American school how much the way we dress and present ourselves becomes part of our identity. It would take years of maturing and reassessment of priorities before I broke away from the desire for conformity and found my way back to myself. By my late twenties, well into my modeling career, I’d successfully reinvented myself
as a woman very self aware of her flaws and eccentricities, unafraid to dress and present as the artist I am. I began dressing for myself. That was the turning point in relocating my sovereignty. And yes—fashion CAN empower the wearer. It made all the difference for me.
‘scary’. How I design myself now will be tailored to who I actually am; a seasoned artist and writer, a humanitarian, a loving mother, a fierce defender of innocence, an educator and coach, a neurodivegent trauma survivor, a supportive wife, a sovereign whole and worthy human.
By my late thirties, after a destructive divorce and later on, the quarantine days of the pandemic, I’d fallen victim to the siren call of comfortable sweat pants, house shoes and tee shirts. Often too depressed to care, I’d sooner throw my hair into my Yankees ball cap than wash it. I became “That mom”, the one your kids hate to see picking them up from school in fear they’d die of embarrassment if their friends caught sight. This was a dark time for me. It was a dark time for many of us.
My fashion may shift over time as I move gracefully into the years ahead. But my style will undeniably say “I Am”. I wish this degree of self conviction for all.
It’s only just before I turned forty that I began to pull myself up by my proverbial bootstraps and put my sparkly Elton John sunnies on again. I’ve been coming back to me. Working from home, I’m still a fan of my “mom uniform”, but I’m slowly getting back to colors and patterns, alchemical jewelry and hand designed pieces by local artisans. The last front I battle is my body image. Not knowing how to properly dress for this new curvier body type has been like learning Japanese. Difficult and foreign. But as I’m sure Iris would say, not knowing how is not an excuse not to learn. So here I stand at the crux of what will be the style aesthetic of my middle life. Even as I write that, it’s beginning to feel more exciting than it is
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“To find out who you are is like putting yourself on a psychiatric couch, but you have nobody to help you. Really it isn’t easy. I was talking with my nephew this morning and he gave me one of the best quotes I’ve heard in years, ‘Personal style is curiosity about oneself.'” - Iris Apfel
geisahaus.com
A FASHION PRODUCTION & MEDIA COMPANY
{not}
A N O T H E R
CINDERELLA S T O R Y visual storytelling by photographer Verena Mandragora Vienna, Austria
Once up
on a time…
The image of Cinderella, the poor girl waiting for her prince to put her out of her misery, needs to be modernized. It ́s 2022 and there is no need for a prince. Girls take what they want, when they want. If they ́re still losing their shoes, they pick them up on their own and it ́s the princes that are left behind. Cinderellas claim their right not to be trophy wifes, but queens themselves of their own right.
{ the end } B E G I N N I N G
•••
CONCRETE SIMILARITY
Concept & remote styling by Irmela Schwengler x photographer Simone Schneider Faller + Schröder Architekten: Terrassenhaus Tapachstraße, Stuttgart, Deutschland
MODEL STEPHAN ADAM XI ZENG PHOTOGRAPHY LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
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UNTITLED NINE Artisan Designer Collaboratorative from Breeze Yun & Tyler Basa Atlanta, Georgia
journalist K. Day Gomez
Series 2
—is the design collaborative resulting from the combined efforts of Breeze Yun [ Physical Director of Art Pieces ] and Tyler Basa [ Digital Director of Art Pieces ] This collaborative operates as a prime example of the intersection between art and fashion. In fact, they create wearable art utilizing repurposed, reworked textiles. The duo also experiments with sound media, digital art and multifunctional home decor. The results of their efforts and applied talents is a fusion of creative productivity that can be worn, lived in and experienced. Untitled Nine was built with distinct principles in mind. Breeze and Tyler aim to upcycle vintage pieces as a result of their awareness of the fashion industry’s devastating impact on the environment. They have expertly developed a system that counters this impact. Instead of using the usual method of mass production, Breeze relies on painting and sculpting to craft his pieces. He explains his methodology—“I became a fashion designer from a yearning to become an artist who creates artwork which exists in physical and psychological proximity to people, as opposed to pieces that remain stuck in galleries and museums. My bottom line in designing pieces for Untitled Nine is to help build a culture of fashion that does not harm nature, and to prove that used clothing has value as materials for new pieces of fashion.”
Tyler Basa
Breeze Yun
It is undeniable that the fashion industry is the third highest polluting industry in the world, exceeded only by the energy and livestock industries, with the average American citizen discarding about 70 lbs of clothing every year. Therefore, I was greatly impressed with what these creative innovators are doing, and particularly moved by the deep sense of accountability that frames their philosophy as designers and artisans. Untitled Nine uniquely approaches fashion design with extensive knowledge of, and experience with, fine art. As such, the pieces Breeze crafts stand out starkly from the rest of the fashion industry, despite the fact that there are so many active designers now. In order to create marketable products from used clothing, there needs to be an undeniably distinctive element to the pieces—and Breeze Yun certainly pulls out all the stops to skillfully “re-produce” marketable fashion garments. ”Many fashion brands like to claim artistic praise for their work, yet manufacture endless amount of copies of the work. We just don’t agree with that. In a weird coincidence, both of our moms are painters, so that has been ingrained in our existence and has influenced how we see art. We wanted that to translate to the brand’s identity. Making 1 of 1’s that can’t be replicated. We can of course replicate a design, but since we use vintage garments (different washes, distresses, fits) even our remake would still be a 1 of 1.” It’s ingenious, really. With such a strong focus on sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint, their work is not only amazing, it’s environmentally conscious and conscientious. A factor that has become increasingly important to the buyer
now more than ever before. So what about access? ”Our brand is based in Atlanta, Georgia. We’ve recently had a pop-up shop at a well-known downtown boutique, Closette. But our work is always available online at untitlednine.com . If someone is interested and located in Atlanta, we do accept in-person visits for try-ons and purchases upon request.“ 45
Series 1
DESIGNER GAL NELL DAHAN TEL AVIV-YAFO, ISRAEL
As fast fashion continues to take a toll on the environment, animals and basic human rights, we are proud to announce the newest activation of the original Untamable-The Sustainable Fashion Show and Event called Indigenous—The Individual Warrior Within.
Written by James Hunter and Amanda Alarcón-Hunter San Antonio, Texas
With this being number two under our belts, Amanda Alarcón-Hunter [Founder, Creative Director, Stylist, Sustainable Designer and Producer] is proud to be able to continue this new activation and highly sustainable curated fashion show and event. For this particular untamable show and many more to come, one will see a twist and mashed-up vision with the launch from Alarcón-Hunter partnering up with long time friend and sustainable sister from many moons ago, Becky Witte-Marsh. With the new launch of their very own event and production company called AB Event Designs, Becky Witte-Marsh, a sustainable stylist and fashionista herself, is now the official Set Designer and Assistant Creative Director for Untamable alongside Alarcón-Hunter. The dynamic duo come with a combined experience of 50 years in the fashion show and event industry. These two innovators and activators with their keen eye for detail, gather the most eclectic ideas and unexpected pieces to create immersive designs. This is the experience one can expect when attending an Untamable Fashion Show and Event. The Untamable series will continue on November 12, 2022, kicking off Indigenous month at the beautiful newly renovated Hotel Estancia in San Antonio, Texas. This sustainable Fall / Winter collection by Alarcón-Hunter will be the release of “IndigenousThe Individual Warrior Within”. This particular show will focus on the past, present, and future of native peoples throughout the US. The collection will be rich with textures, colors, rare vintage textiles and bold jewelry on the runway. This show and event is a patronage to the cultures, contributions and resilience of the Native people. 69
As Alarcón-Hunter is herself, predominantly Native American, this is a show that most resonates with her. With her extended family and deep roots coming from New Mexico, she found this show to be the perfect way to honor her ancestors and friends. We call this show a “preservation for the reservation'' for the most part because that is what we do, that is who we are. “We preserve, we refine, repair, rework and redesign,” says Alarcón-Hunter. Amanda Alarcón-Hunter is highly involved in the community for Native Americans and supports multiple organizations and pow-wows across South Texas. This particular fashion show and event will be different. It will not only bring the Native culture to the forefront, but will also serve to show how the culture has evolved by using explosive expressions and empowerment through eclectic sustainable clothing and accessories. The purpose is to demonstrate that we all have the warrior within ourselves to protect, sustain and stand up for what is right and make a difference in todays’ society. Alarcón-Hunter is fearless when it comes to Untamable and will always have a very important theme to support the show. As two soulful individuals, the innovators who own and operate AB Event Designers plan on producing a number of Untamable themed shows in the future and will continue to produce and execute with the highest regard. “We are excited to continue to bring the community together and showcase sustainability with Untamable, bringing in hundreds of people from across South Texas to San Antonio '' says
Witte-Marsh. The most important aspect of Untamable is its passion for community collaboratives and its true nature as the philanthropic initiative it was created to be from day one. “We do not ever want to lose sight of why Untamable started in the first place. Untamable is meant to empower the higher self within, to empower individuals so in return they can empower others,” states Alarcón-Hunter. This year's Untamable Indigenous Fashion Show and Event will benefit American Indians in Texas at The Spanish Colonial and the local nonprofit Ferarri Kid, which brings a sense of relief to children battling cancer. Alarcón-Hunter will continue to design and create sustainable designs such as one- of-a- kind clothing for women and men, jewelry, handbags, accessories and home goods for all Untamable Fashion Shows. In the near future, she plans to invite a select few designers into the Untamable series who will apply and send in their portfolio to work side by side with Alarcón-Hunter. As always, there is a much deeper meaning to Untamable-The Sustainable Fashion Show. These shows are not just about fashion or what trend is next. These shows are meant to awaken the person within and bring slow fashion to the forefront. We will continue to showcase vintage, upcycled and reworked products which serve to show society that they are not only better quality and well made, but can sustain a lifetime—unlike fast fashion mass produced items. As a community collaborative, philanthropic initiative and advocacy for Human Rights, it goes without saying that Untamable, a cultural asset, is here to stay and making waves. These shows are very unique, impactful, highly sustainable fashion and intimate—so tickets will go fast. Are you ready for the next Untamable Fashion Show and Event?
IG minxandonyx untamable.satx Facebook minxandonyx Untamable-The Sustainable Fashion Show and Event Linktree
AUSTIN ALEGRIA RÉPUBLIQUE NOUVEAU
& THE NEW TEXAS
JOURNALIST K. DAY GOMEZ
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Austin Alegria is not only a well known stylist and designer based in San Antonio, Texas—he is also the social media / marketing director for the Texas Fashion Industry Initiative. Austin’s designs have a completely new wave appeal while at times hinting at little bits of Tejas. We asked what draws him to this particular style? “I have always been interested in showing pieces of my heritage. I am first generation born in the United States. I was born in Jackson, Mississippi but have grown up in South Texas. Specifically Weslaco, Texas; located in The Rio Grande Valley. Texas has always been home and being a Vaquero / Vaquera / VaquerX has always been something that I enjoyed seeing. I like mixing a bit of Mexican with a bit of Americana.” Austin shared a some insight into his early life and the aspects that contributed to who he’d become as a creative. “I was always drawn to fashion since I was a kid. Growing up, my mother had a floral shop / wedding planning business and I was so intrigued by it. She also did small beading work on the side for custom gowns. I would watch her for hours when she would bead. I always liked wearing the craziest outfits and my brother hated being around me anywhere! He said I had no sense of style and looked crazy. I really honed my style, I guess by sophomore year of high school.” After graduation, Austin attended college at University of the Incarnate Word. “I entered as a business student. But last minute, during my orientation process, I changed my major to fashion design.”—and we’re so glad he did! “I began to really put myself into everything and anything. I applied to internships, I became a dresser for fashion shows, I stayed late after class to work on projects, etc... As my second year came around, I became fashion society president. It was such an amazing experience.” This was a pivotal point in his life, yet was not received with the enthusiasm one would hope for. “My mother in her younger years also wanted to pursue fashion and design. She was able to do it, but it wasn’t as fast growing as it has been for me. So she told me it would never really make me money or I wouldn’t get to where I wanted
with a degree in fashion. I told her maybe I could and maybe it would work for me and she eventually let me do what I wanted. But I always felt a push back after every conversation dealing with fashion.” The resistance Austin experienced is fairly common, at least in the American family structure. Whether as a result of economic hardship or our rigid indoctrination-heavy education system, most parents before the millennial era exhibit a deeprooted belief that one cannot support one’s self by relying on their innate talents, especially in a creative field. This did not hold Austin Alegria back. “During my second year in college, I interned for Robert Mitchell, a powerhouse in fashion show production. I was able to learn how to build a runway from the ground up. I worked for retailers like Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Dillards and Julian Gold. I also worked for and assisted Carolina Herrera for a fashion show here in San Antonio. It was truly an honor to work alongside her for this! 81
I was also able to gain knowledge on the business end of fashion while working for Sheila Masterson who brought Fashion Group International to its start several years ago. I was her assistant and saw all the work it took to build shows and host events and work with local artists.” All of this experience building under his belt came to a devastating halt when Austin’s mother became terminally ill to the point he had to place his career on hold to care for her. In this time, he shelved his dreams. “Seven years ago, when my mother passed away, my two aunts came to visit me. They let me know that my mother always told them what I was doing and what I accomplished—that she was always excited to share what I was doing. That she was proud of what I was building and she knew I was going to make something of my brand. It was an overwhelming feeling but an amazing one.” Flash forward to today—“I would not have seen myself doing what I’m doing now. It took the pandemic to really push me to do what I wanted to do. I was let go from my job and was told that it was due to the pandemic. After being home for a week, my boyfriend said let’s get you all your tools to start your business and let's get this going. I started to make handbags, accessories and now clothing once again. If it wasn’t for the pandemic and the push from my boyfriend, I would not be here doing this today, a year later! Fashion is my passion and I love the way it makes people feel. I love the way someone’s confidence changes when they have the right outfit on or the right accessories. It's something.
I’ve always see myself doing, and something I’ll always do.” Austin’s mission statement is admirable. “We strive to be inclusive in all aspects of our brand. We want the world to fall in love with our art and encompass it in their everyday life. As art continues to inspire, we strive to inspire others to be who they want to be, in a world where it seems like you cannot. Originality, Evolution & Style; you are original, you will evolve and do it with your own style!” When designing clothing and accessories, Alegria sources a bulk of his materials with sustainability in mind. “I absolutely use sustainable fabrics and hardware for my accessories. One thing we like to do is go thrifting for chain and pendants. I like to break apart old vintage pieces and create something new, like combining two different necklace chains to create a brand new one. With fabrics, we like to source some old fabrics that haven’t been used in several years. We even purchase old clothing from thrift stores, doing the same thing we do with our accessories; unstitching garments apart, making something new out of it. As a brand, we believe in sustainability and not trying to put more out there. We love the idea of fast fashion in the sense that families
with children who go to school can afford the “cool clothes” without having to pay a fortune. However, we hate that these items are tossed out after several months due to the quality; it's a double edged sword. Small businesses are the heart and culture of any city. They are the beauty you see in every corner. Local artists, designers, painters thrive on their love and businesses in their community! They are the reason people take photo ops in front of murals, buy an outfit and wear it out to feel special in a new city.” Austin finds art therapeutic and has other creative outlets as well. “I love to sit and make jewelry with my music on. It makes me feel calm and at peace with myself. I also work at a local boutique part time called Montage. At this vintage Americana boutique, we wash, steam and perfectly curate visuals for display. I find it so relaxing to see an old 80’s leather coat come back to life after being washed and cleaned. Even better is when a customer loves it just as much and purchases it. It gives me a sense of calm knowing something that someone would have thrown away came to life again for someone else.” As for his plans for the future, Alegria tells us, “I would love to establish my brand all over the world, worn by countless people who enjoy what I create. It’s an amazing feeling now when I see people wear my pieces or tag me on social media—it’s amazing! I feel good here in San Antonio. I feel like the fashion community has really grown in the last five years.
We are getting places. Being a board member for The Texas Fashion Industry, I’ve seen designers and artists grow and its amazing to witness. I would love to participate in NYFW and Paris Fashion Week!” He goes on to acknowledge the support he’s been given along the way. “My brand would not be where it is now if it were not for my codesigner and partner Christopher Collins. He pushes me in ways that no other partner has. He has had my back since day one! He creates and pushes boundaries, and I love that.” When asked if he has any advice to impart to others who are seeking a career in the design end of the fashion industry, Austin shares, “I would say really market yourself. Use your social media to your advantage. Create a certain “brand” within your socials, have fun and lastly BE YOURSELF! Don’t be someone the world wants you to be. Be someone YOU wanted to see when you were a child! I have a motto: ORIGINALITY, EVOLUTION & STYLE.”
@sinenkosi_msomii • @latitudes.online • @afrikanizm_art
CONCEPTUAL ARTIST & PHOTOGRAPHER
SINENKOSI MSOMI Mbabane, Mpolonjeni
The Climb. SINENKOSI MSOMI Mbabane, Mpolonjeni
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SACRED GEOMETRY THE ART & DESIGN OF RABBI HANNIEL LEVENSON
Manhattan, New York
journalist K. Day Gomez 93
of connecting the act of making art with the waves of emotion that pass through him. It’s a form of channeling, in a way, reaching deep to extract something more meaningful. The results aren’t just healing—they’re transcendental. “From this, a new project I am working on emerged. It came out of that silly phrase; ‘when the world gives you lemons make lemonade.’ I decided to put a spin on it. ‘When the world gives you pain, make a T-shirt.’ My friend recently had a hip replacement. I asked him to send me pictures of the bruising and the x-rays (I know, a little weird). I took these images, abstracted them, printed them and made them into clothing.
Honey EL is an independent art and clothing brand based in NYC, created by Rabbi Hanniel Levenson.
A multifaceted and highly spiritual individual, Levenson applies his experience and purpose to everything he does. Be it artwork, transposing his art into textile prints, fabricating garments—even yoga instructing and surfing— there is a powerful undercurrent in his recognizable style. Taking it back to the beginning, Hanniel explains, “I had a teacher in grade school that encouraged me to draw. I have memories of being in art class and just having fun. This practice endured into college where I took more classes and continued this meditation for me. In October my dog Yoyo passed away. We had been together for 13 years. She was my best friend. Somehow, I’m not really sure how, I decided to buy a sewing machine. I taught myself how to use it and the deep focus it takes channeled my energy into the thread. It‘s become another form of healing for me like painting. Past and future disappear and there is only this moment. I then decided I would start printing my art onto fabric and make clothing.” The act of processing grief is different for every person. The rabbi has developed a methodology
For me, it is a practice in being with our fear and our suffering, not running from it but befriending it. This practice is still growing now and it is a lot of fun—not the fear and suffering part, but the coexisting and being with it.” Insightful and innovative. A little history—Rabbi Hanniel Levenson, was born in Haifa, Israel and his formative years were shaped in Manhattan, NYC. Hanniel received a B.A. in Religion & Art from New York University, a Master of Science in Environmental Policy from Bard College, and Rabbinical Ordination from The Academy for Jewish Religion. [Hanniel was also a competitive gymnast for 15 years and is now a yoga teacher, painter, surfer, and designer.] Creating, for Hanniel, is a sacred art and physical therapy. Studying texts from the world's wisdom traditions and drawing on the present moment, Hanniel turns to the canvas to integrate the teachings into his being. Using small brushes and markers on large canvases it becomes a full body experience. Linking the breath with the brush Hanniel explores new meanings through color. We’re taking you through his process from the canvas to the online storefront, and everywhere in between.
Hanniel first draws and paints his patterns by hand.
Next, he has the finished piece printed onto textiles.
Finally, he sews his designs by hand with his sewing machine.
The garment district is located in Manhattan. Historically, masses of Jewish immigrants lived in tenements that doubled as factories. “Today, the Garment District is located between 34th and 41st Streets, west of 6th Avenue. Although the area doesn't go quite as far north as 42nd street, in its heyday 42nd Street was a main artery of activity.” —The Knickerbocker
Hanniel doesn’t have to go far to source his materials. Quite literally, he just has to walk outside his door!
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Made with various body types in mind, several of Hanniel‘s fashions are also gender neutral.
From conceptual design resulting from art therapy, to wearable art.
Buying directly from artists and their brands, like Honey EL, gives the power back to entrepreneurs. It’s more crucial than ever as so many work from home for themselves, post pandemic. Each painting has an accompanying line of lingerie and clothing homesewn in NYC.
You can shop his apparel and art at www.honeylevs .shop .
blue dot Created by Sarah Burgevin Paris, France
blue dot Pre-Fall 2022
Created by Sarah Burgevin and handcrafted in Paris.
A merger between a minimalist and versatile wardrobe combined with bold details, an original twist for wearable and confortable pieces. This collection is produced with a strong ethical approach. 90% of the materials (fabric and haberdashery) were sourced in La Réserve des Arts (an artist-only place where we can buy second-hand materials) or haute-couture deadstocks. Because almost all of the supplies utilized in the making of this line are recycled, the production is very limited. Each garment is produced in small quantities or as a one of a kind unique piece.
www.bluedot.com @bluedot_______
VESTIR SER / RETRATOS SIN CONDICIÓN
DRESS TO BE PORTRAITS WITHOUT CONDITION Portraits without gender conditions by Ed Gómez + artists & Diverfest Cali Columbia
Moody
& Blossom
C H E R R Y
F U
X P H O T O G R A P H E R M A L I K N E W
M O O D Y Y O R K
T H E
P U R S U I T
O F
PERFECTION
Photographer Alec Shpuntov Cosing Reston, Virginia 116
FASHION AND
Sustainable Fashion & Lifestyle Expert Becky Witte-Marsh
sustainable fashion
A romantic tryst in Chicago led me to a latenight viewing of the Woody Allen cult classic “Annie Hall.” My lover and I huddled under our winter coats in the back of the theater, watching the neurotic love story play out, while necking and catching up for lost time… Our own love story was a bit neurotic itself, having started in high school band practice. He was two years younger than I – a scandal in a small-town Wisconsin county school, but our soulful connection was undeniable. We spent years after I moved to Texas, connecting sporadically where and when ever we could. But of all the trysts across America, this “Annie Hall” weekend remains at the top of my heartfelt list. In the early morning hours, while the snow fell on the streets of Chicago, he snuck out and stole the movie poster for me. He was quickly caught upon reentering our warm bed with icy cold feet! The boy, the poster, the movie and Diane Keaton in those adorable men’s wear outfits! Wanting to relive that weekend over and over again in my heart and my mind, I quickly marched myself down to Tootsie’s – a magical women’s boutique not far from the Galleria in Houston where I worked. I perused the pricey racks of designer goods. At the back of the store, I noticed a small bar of men’s wear vests. Just the beginning of things to come as the movie had just been released. This small collection This was the of vintage vests made my heart beat faster. I tried first and the most one on. I felt the warm rush of excitement and lust memorable that I felt in the movie theater that night. No matter “Movie Fashion” what it cost, that vest was going home with me. moment in my life. I know I am not alone in finding fashion inspiration in the movies. Since the 1920’s, fashion has been a key component of movie productions, with stars like Clark Gable,
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Jean Harlow and Shirley Temple influencing how men, women and children dressed. The film industry quickly recognized the importance of hiring fashion and costume designers to create their stars’ costumes. Further development of a star’s look included hair and makeup as well, making them public role models to be emulated. Movies can be highly popular or extremely personal, after all they are an art form that is to be interpreted by the viewer. However, a few fashionable movie moments in time really stand out to me.
Becky’s TOP 10 >>>
1 1) Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” with the help of designer Hubert de Givenchy, transported the LBD that Chanel had originated into a fashion must that every woman could wear.
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Katharine Hepburn popularized women in pants in everyday life and on the silver screen.
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James Dean in “Rebel without a Cause”, exuded cool in a white tee, jeans and a leather jacket.
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Diana Ross brought fashion Maximalism to the big screen in “Mahagony”. Ross herself was the film’s costume designer. Her style was of extremes – HUGE hair, mile long lashes, big feathers and even bigger furs!
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Jennifer Beals in “Flash Dance” made dance leotards and cut up sweat shirts comfy streetwear. I still cut all of the neck and wrist bands out of my sweat shirts.
A favorite of mine is Molly Ringwald in “Pretty in Pink”! The movie was at the forefront of the recycle, repurpose, reimagine movement, making thrift stores finds fabulous again!
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1) Julia Roberts wowed us all in a red gown created by Marilyn Vance. “Pretty Woman” - a good old Cinderella story if ever there was one.
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8 Patricia Field struck a cord again with “The Devil Wears Prada”, being nominated for an Oscar for best costumes. Starring Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep and need I say – CHANEL!!!
Sex and the City – the show and the movies – also really struck a cord with me and millions of other women! Not only did Patricia Field and SJP create interesting Carrie Bradshaw looks episode after episode, season after season, they also inspired women to express themselves through their own personal style – something that I am all about! Nothing cookie cutter. Each look inspired by a mood, a feeling, a vibe. So cool!!! 126
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These are only some of film’s best fashion moments. We all have our favorites. They become our favorites for different reasons. Sometimes, yes, it’s the style alone that is so compelling that we just must have it! But I think what really resonates for the long haul and what drives us to want to recreate a cinematic look, is the way the film, the character and “The Look” made us feel. Personal style, when done right, is what sets us apart. It’s what makes us take a look in the mirror, or the office building window
Speaking of Oscars, designer Jenny Beavan thrilled us all with over 80 looks for the film “Cruella”, winning the costume category and setting off a fashion bomb of black and white stripes and hair!
reflection, or the look in our lover’s eyes when they take us in and feel something – hopefully something good!
CHAMELEON
A self portrait series titled ‘Women’ from multifaceted artist Cecy Photography Pesquería, Mexico
THE
PRINCESS
SAVES HERSELF IN THIS ONE
The work of designer Walter Clarence Peter as captured by photographer ARNAB DEBNATH Kolkata, India 134
OXFORD THE
COLLECTION
Artisan & Designer Seeun Kim Oxford, UK
100 The
Project
Journalist K. Day Gomez
Seeun Kim is an Oxford-based South Korean artist and craftswoman. The Oxford Collection 100 series was hand forged by Seeun Kim in 2022 as an art history project. The entire collection is an assortment of unique pieces— no two are exactly alike. Reminiscent of the Tudor dynasty during the time of Anne Boleyn, followed by the Golden Age ushered in by her daughter, Queen Elizabeth. These exquisite pieces are noteworthy and fine enough to be displayed in a museum.
“Seeun Kim is trained in Japanese handicraft skills and precious metals as an advanced specialist at HikoMizuno College of Jewelry [2012-2016]. As an alumnus of the Royal College of Art, she has learned much about metal crafts while attending college in England [2018-2020].” Her work continues to be exhibited in the United Kingdom and internationally. linktr.ee/SeeunKim
Self Portrait An introspective visual essay by illustrator Marie-Julie Lafrance Canada
journalist K. Day Gomez
Marie-Julie Lafrance first introduced herself to us as a 29 year old Canadian / Métis illustrator diagnosed as HSP (Hyper Sensitive person). Her most recent self portrait series takes an introspective look at how she is affected by situations in her life and offers a way to communicate those situations visually. Lafrance’s art is thick with symbolism—the use of hands and other elements she’s worked into her art mean something deeper. “To me, hands speak as much as the eyes do. You can tell someone's actual personality by the way they move their hands. Hands speak loudly without revealing too much, giving the audience space to interpret my art as they please. There is no symbolism behind the vase and the pearls, but I love contrast. When I paint something dark (representing pain or destruction), I always want to balance it with something delicate and / or colorful. Touching on these darker themes is her way of navigating trauma. “It is all about abuse. Abuse (physical and psychological) at the hands of others. Abuse at our own hands. Sometimes we get so used to getting abused by others that we start mistreating ourselves. Be careful and don’t let that happen to you.” For Lafrance, this is a conversation, not so much an avenue of healing. “I don't think art is as therapeutic to me as people might think it is. I started drawing the second I was able to hold a pencil. I did not start drawing because I felt I had something important to say. I draw, I paint, I design and make clothes. It is like breathing to me. Sometimes I create things because I have a message to share and sometimes it is simply because I feel like doing something that relaxes me (like sewing). To me, art is conviction, not (necessarily) therapy.” We asked her to explain HSP (Hyper Sensitive person) and how it affects her. “In my case, it means I hear, see, and feel much more than a non-hyper sensitive person. When I say I hear more, it means I can’t stand loud noises (for an extended period). It feels like someone is stabbing me in the brain. And when I’m really tired—my hypersensitivity is at its peak—I have a hard time dealing with any sound. That is when I watch TV with the volume at 2, and sometimes it is still too loud for me. When I say I see more, it means I have a hard time with bright lights. When I say I feel more, it means I can feel everybody’s energy; when I’m in a room with people, for example. I can feel their stress, their anger, their sadness. We all are capable of sensing someone else's inner emotional state, but as I am highly sensitive, it means I feel it even though I do not know the person personally.
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I don’t need words or cues to know there is something off with people. It is a bit like when animals run for the hills when there is a tsunami coming. They just know it is coming.” Marie-Julie offers a bit of advice for others who feel hypersensitivity or who wrestle with depression or other mental stress. “Listen to yourself. You will meet people who act and talk like they know what you are going through without being hyper sensitive themselves. Don't listen to them. Listen to your body, to your brain. What are they telling you? That you are feeling uncomfortable in that situation? Then leave. You and your mental health are what matter the most in your life. If your mental health deteriorates, you are running to your own loss and you will realize fast enough that the ones that were telling you what to do (without
being hyper sensitive themselves) are of no help when things begin to get real serious. Take care of yourself and take your mental health seriously. And for the people living, dealing with a highly sensitive partner, friend, family member, colleague; give them a lot of personal space.” Marie-Julie Lafrance’s work has been published in Éclair Magazine, Passengers Journal, Artells, Marika and many other outlets. She’s also worked as an illustrator with Leading Edge Magazine, Flash Frog Magazine, as well as various other magazines and publishers. Currently, she is working on a children’s book. She continues to channel her experiences into art. Her works throughout this editorial are shown in the order as follows : 1. Only You (8.50 x 11, 2022) 2. Stop it (24 x 30, 2022) 3. It is Our Dream Now 4. Bottle it Up 5. Taste 6. Two 7. You Can’t See It
BUCOLIQUE Photographer Alfredina De Presbiteris captures Martina De Rosa Rotonda, Italy
Lonely Soul
Photographer Эдуард Довганов captures Sinikina Anastasia Yekaterinburg, Russia
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
Melanie Allison MELANIEALLISONGALLERY.COM
ICON
I R I S
A P F E L
Iris Apfel is singularly one of the most interesting human beings alive in this era. Having just celebrated her 100th birthday, this self-ascribed “accidental icon” is revered as one of the most prominent taste-makers in the global fashion community.
fashion-forward wardrobe for two more variations of Barbie. Now, Iris has accumulated a following of over 2.4 million subscribers on her Instagram account. At this point, if you haven’t heard of Iris, you’re not paying attention.
Her popularity has made her a highly sought after resource, resulting in books and merchandising representative of her unique eccentric style. Even the Matel toy company created an Iris doll, partnering with her to design
And yet, despite her high praise and media focus, Iris holds true to her own practical ideals. “I am inspired by everything around me. It's not like I stand out on the moors or any of that romantic crap they throw around. I'm just
journalist & illustrator K. Day Gomez
*Journalist clears throat* …As I sit here writing about her now, in the quiet of my mid century townhouse in the middle of Alamo Heights township in Texas… How could I not? After all, when considering who to name as our ICON for our first Special Fashion Edition, I could think of not a single person alive, more fitting.
inspired by being alive and breathing and meeting people and talking to people and doing things and absorbing what's happening. I think if more people did that, there would be better fashion.” As an interior designer in her earlier years, she even advised nine US presidents on decor. Alongside her husband, Apfel ran an established textile company—Old World Weavers—from 1950 to 1992. As their work called them to visit many places around the globe intending to source materials, Iris would fall in love with the cultures that touched her experience. She gathered trinkets and wearable art along the way and over time has curated a substantial collection of unique pieces. By 2005, the MET exhibited a retrospective about her vast personal collection. In more recent times, she mused, “Suddenly I have become a geriatric starlet. My husband and I laugh a lot with the situation. I have been doing this all my life and now I find lots of magazines, especially European, that are writing about me. But I am not doing anything other than what I have been doing for the past 70 years!”
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Iris Apfel has—for me, at least—over time become a beacon of originality and individuality. I find on days that I lack a degree of confidence or feel down about my appearance, just remembering Iris makes me realize how silly my own self judgements are. "I never felt pretty, I don’t feel pretty now; I’m not a pretty person. I don’t like pretty, so I don’t feel badly. And I think it worked out well, because…when you’re somebody like myself, in order to get around and be attractive, you have to develop something. You have to learn something, and have to do something, so you become a bit more interesting. And when you get older, you get by on that.”
S O
W H A T
N O W ?
Apfel fans and appreciators will be pleased to know the stylist has teamed up with ZENNI Optical to create THE IRIS APFEL EDIT. And these bad bebes do not disappoint! In Iris’ words, “More is more and less is a bore."
As a final note, we leave you with one of her [now] most famous gems…
Whether you aspire to emulate her style or her empowering sense of courage that comes from self knowledge, I think we can all agree that we’d like to achieve Iris Apfel’s level of unbothered. “There is really no substitute for experience. You must have experience and be open to experience — that helps. That helps a lot. Most importantly, you have to be yourself, be who you are and take time to be open and honest with yourself. That is what it's all about. If you don't know yourself, you'll never have great style. You'll never really live. To me, the worst fashion faux pas is to look in the mirror, and not see yourself." 162
"Fashion you can buy, but style you possess. The key to style is learning who you are, which takes years. There's no how-to road map to style. It's about self expression and, above all, attitude." —Iris Apfel
PEPPER Magazine
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K
cover artist.
October 2022
KELLY O’CONNOR '22
Magazine’s dual release—our October issue and the bonus companion Special Fashion edition. We couldn’t have made a more fitting choice. This double feature was strategically designed to show-
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elly O’Connor is a noteworthy American contemporary artist who resides in San Antonio, Texas. She’s also the first artist to take on the role of cover artist for PEPPER
An icon in the making.
case the intersectionality between art and fashion. It's a celebration of innovative progressive fashion initiatives and entrepreneurs around the world. And Kelly O’Connor is our quintessential mascot. With a strong focus on retro mid century themes, Kelly has an uncanny ability to present a bygone era in a completely new way. Often psychedelic, colorful, surprising and even subliminally distopic, her work is in line with the reinvention mentality that is driving the fashion movements of the now. Vintage is king, and the makers who rework the obsolete visions into something new are leading the way. What’s more, Kelly fully embodies the aesthetic she’s built. From her postmodern home renovation and decor to her everyday fashion. At any given moment, she looks like she stepped right out of one of her artworks. Prim and feminine in bold colors and patterns that reflect the time period that holds her creative heart. To add, she’s also designed wearable art and built full scale installations as an homage to Americana idealism, fashion and beauty. Kelly’s work is alluring, and yet there is so much meaning just below the surface of everything she does. She explains her process the best, and her “why”, in her artist’s statement [which can also be viewed on her website, kellyoconnor.carbonmade.com]. “Drawing on the allegory of American consciousness through the 164
use of iconic characters, my work is derived from a combination of memory, fantasy, and pop culture. The mythological characters, built around enduring western cultural ideals, make up much of my subconscious. My work is, to a great extent, about exposing the duality behind thin public façades that we readily embrace. Throughout history we continue to struggle with aspirations and contradictions represented in popular culture. Many of the female characters have a look of artificial bliss or antidepressant-driven happiness, while many of the male characters represent the ominous “man behind the curtain.” At times they are hypnotized or controlled by intoxicating products or appliances. The scenes I create are the calcified remains of a culture focused on production and destruction, such as in The Rise and Fall, 2012. By appropriating
idealized American landscapes, including Carlsbad Caverns and Yellowstone National Park, and creating a non-linear narrative, I intentionally leave the situation ambiguous in order for the viewer to relate their own experiences to the suggested scenarios. My intention is to create an immortal or dreamlike space, such as one that could only exist in a person’s subconscious. Playing with color and scale is central to my process. Sickly sweet, candycolored surfaces are juxtaposed with colored paper sampled from vintage record covers. The contrast of sparkling rays and bright neon against weathered, dull tones acts as a metaphor for dualities within our society. Appropriated images, enlarged from their original source to exaggerate their apparent content, introduce nostalgic and familiar themes that provide a rich access point for the viewer. These images are drawn from film and popular magazines, primarily from the 1950’s and 1960’s. I prefer this time period because the line quality of the drawings is minimal and the subjects are rich with American idealism.” In this way, O’Connor also represents our regular issue soft theme—“Be the Change”. In our collective opinion, this prolific powerhouse of a multidisciplinary mixed media artist is on the fast track to becoming an icon in her genre. Find her at The McNay Museum, in local boutiques and at Ruby City where she holds the position of head of collections. 165
LINKTR.EE/MINXANDONYX @MINXANDONYX
linktr.ee/minxandonyx
The
SUSTAINABLE STYLIST BECKY WITTE-MARSH @beckywittemarsh
marshbecky17@gmail.com
FASHION • HOME • SET
CREATIVE BRAND CONSULTANT + PHOTOGRAPHER + WEB DESIGN + COPY WRITER • K. DAY GOMEZ
• @CREATIVE.CONSULTANT.KDAY
directory.
directory. JOURDAN, JustWin, SOFIE SCHNOOR, GUESS, Czemo, Classy and Fabulous, GESTUZ + umbrella doppler
Credits, Locations & Contact 6
Manufaktur
Introduction by editor in
chief K. Day Gomez / San Antonio, Texas / Instagram @creative.consultant.kday / email hello.pepper@outlook.com /
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27 Concrete Similarity by photographer Simone Schneider with Concept & Remote Styling
photographer Amado Ochoa
by Irmela Schwengler / Location - Faller + Schröder Architekten: Terrassenhaus Tapachstraße, Stuttgart / Make up & Hair: Katja Luz
modeled by K. Day circa 2019
Plant & Flower Design:
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Studio de Pasquale Models: Laura M./ Brodybookings & Leon O./
web directory msha.ke/kathleendaygomez ‘Domestic Couture’ series shot by
[NOT] Another Cinderella
Story by photographer Verena Mandragora / Vienna, Austria / Instagram @verenamandragora / Website www.mandragora.at/ / verena@mandragora.at /
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+43 664 1445859 TEAM : Styling - Sabine Holderer
Most Wanted Models Photo Assistant: Arno Arnold Styling Assistant: Luis Widmann Retouch: Dirk Trachte Wardrobe: Sanna Patrick @sanna.patrick / Pal Offner @paloffner / Brandit
@sabineholderer.styling Make up & Hair - Bianca Beh
@brandit.official / eyd @eydclothing / Dr.Martens @drmartensofficial
@biancathebeh Model - Masha @ Munich Models @markilita_ Retouch Noir @retouchingnoir
Make up: mac cosmetics @maccosmetics Hair: Glynt
Wardrobe / Brands :
@glynt.hair
Postproduction :
LÉA VIRGINIE POZZI, CATWALK, Miguel Ramirez, ISABEL
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MARANT, TRUFFLE collection, Baum und Pferdgarten, SECOND FEMALE, Dsquared2, Salvatore
38 Dark Star model Stephan Adam / Los Angeles, California / @stephanrock3s / photographer Xi Zeng @xizengphotography
Ferragamo, FALKE (vintage), MARCEL OSTERTAG, CHARLES,
ON THE COVER
43 Untitled Nine Artisan Designer Collaboratorative
Artist Kelly O’Connor / San Antonio, Texas / website kellyoconnor.carbonmade.co m / @kellyoconnorart / portrait photographer Chris
from Breeze Yun & Tyler Basa / Atlanta, Georgia / @untitlednineofficial design innovators @breeze.yun & @tylerbasa
Cantoya
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directory. Website untitlednine.com / Photographers Shan Shi @shanshi13321 & Tyler X @the.tylerx Models : Sara Lynn @saralynnslagle / Tahj Keeton @tahjkeeton / Cactus Fractal - @cactusfractal / Rob Arcade - @ufolandings /
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Hampton - @hampton_ / Coco Huang - @cocohuang_ 62
Only Human by
designer Gal Nell Dahan / Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel / photographer Yuval Urbach / Models Lea Levy & Isa Abdullah / Fashion: @galnellda Pub: @justbemagazine_ Video: @ellamosseri
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Pub: @fashzilla.magazine Photo: @yuvalurbach Model: @lealevlea Model: Isa Abdallah 68
Untamable - The
Individual Warrior Within / San Antonio, Texas / web directory linktr.ee/minxandonyx / @untamable.satx / Amanda
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Alarcon-Hunter- Visionary and Founder, Creative Director and Sustainable Stylist for Untamable / Becky Witte-Marsh- Co-Creative Director, Set Designer and Sustainable Stylist for Untamable / All photo credits to friend and PhotographerLesley Zapata / Social Media Manager for Untamable -
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Alyse Deanda with The Blooming Social / All hair by Amanda Alarcon Hunter / Clothing and accessories sold by Minx and Onyx, Designs by Amanda Alarcon-Hunter and Becky Witte Marsh / Face artwork by Joao Quiroz with JQ Art Studio / James Vincent Dean (Indigenous model Comanche and Yaneguana payaya ) Brooke Eastland Jacob Cuevas (Indigenous model) Jayden Burnette 78 78 République Nouveau : designer Austin Alegria & the new Texas / San Antonio, Texas / web directory linktr.ee/austinalegria / @austinxalegria / Photographers: Saige Thomas, Daniel Lockwood, Chris Contoya, Joel Nava, Peter Tung Models: Frankie Shipp, Kasey Landoll, V, Iyanna, Victoria Trevino, Eddie Sedans, Nani Melendez, Razberry, Austin Alegria Hair & Makeup Cynthia Hernandez, Christina Camero, Makaveli Clothing/accessoris/bags Austin Alegria & Christopher Collins [special acknowledgement - The Latino Cultural Center is where Austin’s finale pieces for VaquerX were showcased in Dallas, Texas] 90
The Climb by
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directory. photographer Sinenkosi Msomi / Mbabane, Mpolonjeni - Swaziland, South Africa / web portfolio latitudes.online/artists/sinenk osi_msomi / @sinenkosi_msomii 92
Sacred Geometry : Honey
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EL brand by artist, designer & Rabbi Hanniel Levenson / Manhattan, New York / website honeyel.shop / @honeylevs 100
Blue Dot designer
Sarah Burgevin / Paris, France / website bluedot.com / @bluedot__________________ / photographer Yves Ortega / Mua & Hair Chiara Pomella /
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Makeup Artist - Sade MakeUp / Fashion Designer - Desigual / Photographer - Edwin Gómez Cerón / Fashion Designer - Jurat Pacer / Fashion Designer - Lobo By Camilo Díaz / Model Jacob Harvey / Nail Artist Dana Sofia Nails / Cr Dir: @rio_studio Fashion: @juanenriquezofficial Photo & Cr Dir: @ed.win.art MUA: @sade_makeup__ Fashion: @desigual Photo: @edwinete Fashion: @juratpacer Fashion: @lobobycamilodiaz Model: @jacob_hd_ Nails: @dana_gomez9620 112 Moody & Blossom with model Cherry Fu / New York, New York / @cherryfu1 / photographer Malik Moody
Models Roxane Perez & Ailine Nishi Stylist & Fashion & Creative Director: @bluedot__________________ Photo & Retoucher: @delgatoojo MUA & Hair: @_kiara_san_ Model: @roxaneperez_15backup Model: @ai_liline 106
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VESTIR SER /
RETRATOS SIN CONDICIÓN by Ríostudio / Portraits without gender conditions by Ed Gómez + artists and Diverfest Cali / Creative Direction - Ríostudio / Fashion Designer - Juan Enriquez / Photographer, Creative Director - Ed Gomez Cerón /
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116 The Pursuit of Perfection by photographer Alec Shpuntov Cosing / Reston, Virginia / mailto:aleccosing@gmail.c om / Models Che, Brie Crenshaw, Antonio Garcia Photo: @the_real_cosing Model: @anim3xxch3 Model: @ultimatedonsanddivas Model: @thereal_antoniogarcia 122 My ‘Annie Hall’ Moment by sustainable fashion & lifestyle expert Becky Witte-Marsh / San
directory. Antonio, Texas / Instagram @beckywittemarsh / various theatrical posters sourced from public archives / cover page photographer Chase Yi - LA, California - @chaseyi_ 128
Chameleon by Cecy
Photography / Pesquería, Mexico / @cecy.photograph / Model, Makeup Artist, Creative
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Director, Photographer, Publication, Retoucher, Hair Stylist, Accessory Designer Hannia Obregon 134
The Princess Saves
Herself in This One by designer Walter Clarence Peter & photographer Arnab Debnath / Kolkata, India / model Aisha Tamang / Photo: @arnabcreation
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Model: @aishaa_tamang19 Fashion:
153 Lonely Soul with Sinikina Anastasia / Yekaterinburg, Russia / Makeup Artist Елена Шелест / Hair Stylist Александр Ионов / Photographer Эдуард Довганов / Creative Director Фархунда Каримжнонова Model: @anastasia_adamson MUA: @shel_elena Hair: @_aleksandr_ionov Photo: @edwarddov Cr Dir: @afarrizm 158 Icon : Iris Apfel with digital illustrations by artist K. Day Gamez / @artist.kday / featuring the newest line from ZENNI Optical - The Iris Apfel Edit zennioptical.com/iris-apfelglasses
@walter_clarence_peter 139
ADVERTISERS
The Oxford Collection by
designer and metal fabricator Seeun Kim / London, UK / web directory linktr.ee/SeeunKim Jewelry: @jewellery_studio_seeun own & Cr Dir & Photo & Pub & Access: @jewellery_studio_seeun
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100 Handcrafted Jewellery & Art History Series 144
Self Portrait by artist
Marie-Julie Lafrance / Canada / mariejuliestudio.wordpress.com 150
Bucolique model Martina
De Rosa with Photographer Alfredina De Presbiteris / Rotonda, Italy / @canceroses.s
158
12 "TEXAS FASHION WEEK™ is a 7-day long event hosted annually by the Texas Fashion Industry Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth and development of fashion in Texas. As proclaimed by Mayor Ron Nirenberg, San Antonio serves as the home base for TXFW™ and seeks to highlight emerging artists and designers all across Texas." Key Dates: October 1st-7th 2022 Locations: Legacy Park, Brick, KLRN Studio
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directory. 157 Artist Melanie Alison / Austin, Texas / melanieallisongallery.com / Instagram @melanieallisongallery / ad created by K. Day Gomez
Instagram : @txfashionweek & @texasfashionindustry Continuing to be a place that supports charity events & great causes across San Antonio. / photographer Caleb Russell
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• Queensland Australia / ad created by K. Day Gomez 13
Geisha Haus fashion
production & media company / website geisahaus.com / Instagram @geishahsus 89
Photographer &
Conceptual Artist Sinenkosi Msomi / Mbabane, Mpolonjeni - Swaziland,
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South Africa / web portfolio osi_msomi / @sinenkosi_msomii The Blooming Social -
Social media marketing and management agency / San Antonio, Texas / founder Alyse Deanda / @the.bloomingsocial /
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the.bloomingsocial1@gmail.c om 143
Stacey Rae
Photography / website cloverbudphotography.com / Instagram @staceyraeofficial 156
Darkhorse Photography
/ Michael Avila Christman / @darkhorsephotographysa
169 Minx and Onyx Vintage / San Antonio, Texas / Founder, Sustainable Designer, Artisan Amanda AlarcónHunter / linktr.ee/minxandonyx / @minxandonyx 170 Untamable - The Individual Warrior Within sustainable fashion show and event / presented by Amanda Alarcón-Hunter & Becky Witte-Marsh / for tickets and details linktr.ee/minxandonyx / @untamable.satx
latitudes.online/artists/sinenk
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63 Clinician Itxia Lee Acevedo of POUT MedSpa /San Antonio, Texas / poutmedspa.com / / Instagram @pout_itxialee / ad created by K. Day Gomez
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171 Stylist Becky WitteMarsh / Instagram @beckywittemarsh / ad designer & photographer K. Day Gomez -y @creative.consultant.kday 172 Multidisciplinary Mixed Media Artist K. Day Gomez / San Antonio, Texas / web directory msha.ke/kdaygomez / @artist.kday
directory. ADVERTISERS 173
Creative Consultant K.
Day Gomez / San Antonio, Texas / artistkday.weebly.com / @creative.consultant.kday 184
Ferrari Kid nonprofit /
San Antonio, Texas /
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Fairtrade Certified
theferrarikid.org /
Clothing & Textiles :
@theferrarikid
“Fast fashion is a serious problem. The price of a $3 t-shirt is higher than you
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
might think—unsafe and unfair labor conditions, unsustainable livelihoods and serious environmental
Untamable - The Individual
issues. By choosing
Warrior Within fashion show designer Amanda Alarcón-
clothing and textiles made
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Hunter directly benefits The
of Fairtrade certified cotton, you are standing up for the rights of cotton
American Indians Spanish
farmers and workers.”
Colonial Missions and Ferrari
fairtradeamerica.org
Kid.
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global. inclusive empowering.
and event be sustainable
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PEPPER STAFF K. DAY GOMEZ EDITOR IN CHIEF Hello, my name is Kathleen. I am a neurodivegent mother, wife and wearer of many hats. My career life is a bit of a juggling act. 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 & LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR 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.
ANGELA MICHELLE EMPOWERMENT MAVEN & INTIMACY ALCHEMIST Angela Michelle is a sexologist from The Sexology Institute. She specializes as an intimacy & body image coach and is also an
staff. empowerment photographer. Her portfolio is expansive covering almost two decades. As an inclusive yoga instructor, she also provides modified yoga lessons for those who need it. Angela is a speaker, educator, mentor and advocate who raises awareness on a variety of topics she is passionate about.
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.
We are honored to have her unique and empowering insight on the PEPPER Magazine board of staff contributors.
TINA SENA
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
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.
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. 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!
NJABULO NKAMBULE AUTHOR & POET Njabulo Nkambule also known as Njabulo N. is a writer, a poet hailing from the Kingdom of 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.
NORMAN RENE AVILA ART HISTORIAN • SAN ANTONIO, TX Artist, painter, musician and writer, Norman Rene Avila wears many hats. Also a former teacher, he has taken on the staff position as our local art and cultural historian. One of the founding members of the SAMOMA nonprofit [San Antonio Museum of Modern Art], as influenced and aided by New York’s MOMA, he is great asset to PEPPER Magazine. Norman has curated an extensive collection of memorabilia, artworks, film footage and photographs which document the SA art
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.
PEPPER STAFF Is diverse, inclusive
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
and international. Currently our staff members are located in the USA / UK / Africa.
CONSIDER ADVERTISING WITH US. Contact CFO / Marketing Director Joe A. Gomez III jagomezthree@iclou d.com
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