MY FAVORITE FILMS FROM THE 10TH BLACKSTAR FILM FESTIVAL
The 10th annual BlackStar Film Festival took place on August 4th – 8th 2021 in Philadelphia, PA offering both in-person and virtual events. Attendees had the opportunity to attend panels, network during happy hour events and even attend in person film screenings at the Mann Center and Eakins Oval. It was such an exciting way to celebrate BIPOC filmmakers, visual artists and film lovers with an array of events and film premieres.
EXHIBIT REVIEW: IMMIGRANT MENTALITY PARADIGM GALLERY
I was very impressed that Sean 9 Lugo was able to take a small space and create such an amazing installation that represented his childhood in New Jersey. Before having the pleasure of attending the opening of ‘Immigrant Mentality’ I was able to interview Sean 9 Lugo about his creative process and the meaning behind “Immigrant Mentality”
EXHIBIT REVIEW: “SUMMERHOUSE” HOT • BED GALLERY
On Saturday, July 17th I was able to visit the downtown hot spot that is Hot Bed Gallery to take a look at the open call exhibition “SUMMERHOUSE” that opened on June 19th of this year. As soon as I stepped into the space I was greeted with beautiful greenery and lively, bright colors exploding off the canvases.
In Convo with JustLatasha
Lastaha was my favorite out of the bunch. I resonate with her mix of quirky and intellectual, her ability to speak out about the things she thought were harmful to the Black community and even her style were all major reasons why she was my favorite. I wanted to know more about her background so I did some digging and found a well-rounded creative who could practically do everything.
In Convo with Shannon Maldonado of Yowie
Yowie has a collection of beautiful art pieces, books, and furniture that is worth splurging on. Seeing this type of representation of a Black, female creative not only owning her own business but also working on amazing projects and brands as a creative director gave me hope that I would be able to do it too.
Four CLOTHING BRANDS DOING IT 4 THA CULTURE
Just because COVID took away our summer doesn’t mean we can’t still look stylish and cool even if we are in the house. This is the perfect time to support black owned businesses and look fly doing it. Be sure to check out my five favorite clothing brands this month below. And as always let them know Black Hippie Art sent you.
In Convo with Fashion Journalist, Tiffany Harrison
Be sure to read my interview with Tiffany Harrison on what inspires her, what was her biggest accomplishment so far and what is her creative process.
In Convo with Jai Monee’ of Point Blank Limited
Point Blank Vintage is definitely a brand you want to get to know. So, be sure to check out our interview below to get to know the person behind Point Blank Vintage.
In Convo with Chelsey Luster
When I decided to relaunch this site I already knew I wanted to interview Chelsey to dive in and get to know the person behind such amazing artwork and exhibits. Be sure to read the interview below to read about her inspirations, what motivates her to create her work and what is her creative process.
WHAT IT MEANS TO CREATE FOR THE REVOLUTION
Now more than ever we demand answers and most importantly change. While some organize events and protests to make their voices heard, others may turn to their canvas or any other tools to create to relay the message that black lives matter.

