I have always loved a good family drama, but the director duo Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert have created an insanely fantastical take on these broken dynamics in their new film Everything Everywhere All At Once, which was released in the U.S. on March 30th, 2022. The duo finds a way to encompass the fragility, rigidity, and complex nature of human emotion through a conversation of the multiverse.
Capes and Tights: Pop Culture’s Commodification of Comic Books
If you’ve been on the internet recently, you’ve probably heard of the upcoming Marvel film, Thor: Love and Thunder. Slated to hit theaters in July of this year, it’s being set up as the summer installment of Disney’s blockbuster franchise, the Marvel Cinematic Universe,
An Interview with Catch the Fire
About a month ago I was lucky enough to be able to sit down with some of the leaders of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Black Student Advocacy group to talk about their inspiring club, their struggles and hopes for the future and the sense of community they foster.
Why I’m Quitting Objective Writing
The idea of objectivity as it intersects within the journalism and writing worlds is one I have turned about in my mind for a long time now. In the many journalism classes I’ve taken thus far in college,there is undoubtedly an expectation that objectivity will remain the core value in which we center our writing on.
Hearing Amber Heard: The Failings of Pop Culture’s Perfect Victim
On Monday, April 11, 2022, dozens of fans gathered outside of the Fairfax County Circuit Court to stand in support of actor Johnny Depp. They carried protest signs and waved pirate flags to commemorate his iconic role as Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean films. One fan, Jacina, traveled all the way from Australia. When asked by reporter Victoria Bekiempis about her support for Depp, she said, “Because I believe he’s innocent, and I don’t think that men’s reputation should be able to be ruined on the say-so of one person when it’s not true. He’s suffered very bad consequences that he didn’t deserve, because I think he’s a pure soul and he deserves redemption.” This is, of course, in reference to his ex-wife, Amber Heard, and the accusations of domestic violence she’s levied against him, the validity of those claims making up the reasoning for this very trial.
Herstory: Fashion
In fashion, women have been dominating the industry with their stories, hard work, accomplishments and trailblazing. Today, I want to recognize women who strive to be the best in their work and want to change the game of fashion with their presence. What makes these three women important to me is their ability to create spaces for others and how they are able to preserve in the world of fashion. In my opinion, these three are paving the way for the next generation of women to be in fashion.
An Interview with Artist Aaron Tran: How World Issues Influence His Art and the Meaning Behind His Powerful Imagery.
In Jan 2022, I had the pleasure of talking with Aaron Tran. Aaron is a Junior in the Communication Arts department, a member of the Asian community, and my friend. Aaron’s art often confronts world issues, in 2020, he made t-shirts using imagery from the Black Lives Matter protests and donated his profits to organizations that supported the movement.
Artist Spotlight: On-Set Videographer
For most of us, a good movie or tv show is just simple enjoyment. It’s a night out with friends to catch the newest Marvel installment, or a week’s worth of waiting to pounce on the next episode of Euphoria. The general plan behind those endeavors seems so simple, too; multimillion-dollar projects with months upon months of filming time and uber-famous actors and actresses.
Six podcasts you should listen to
Podcasts have been a popular source of entertainment and a way of life for some time now. From listening to your favorite musician talking about their process, to listening to what’s hot in fashion and beauty, these six podcasts I’ve curated six podcasts that will add a fresh new take on what you love to listen to.
Clairo and A Soft Dream at The National on 2/2/22
Singer/songwriter and multi-faceted artist Claire Cotrill, who performs under the name Clairo, leaves the crowd feeling enchanted with her delicate voice, warm stage presence and bubbly personality. With the accompaniment of her band and undeniably cool set design, the night was charmingly memorable.
Sampling (Music): A Way to Reimagine Songs
The highlight of my middle school days were flipping through channels in the 900s range on Cox Cable. I would spend countless hours listening to music on the Music Choice channels. The service accompanied an endless range of genres from Rock to Soul, and with it, I was constantly immersed in new hit sounds.
Soviet Lord of The Rings: A Psychedelic Masterpiece
The Soviet Union was falling apart from the inside out, bringing forth the winds of change. A made-for-TV film adaptation of the Lord of The Rings, aired only once and then lost in the fall of the Soviet Union, until now.
The Climate Crisis is the Next COVID Crisis
Over the past few years, the world has experienced more noticeable and dramatic climate disasters than ever before, and yet our response has overall been stagnant. During this last year, I realized that the reaction to the worsening undeniable effects of climate change reminded me of the way the world reacted to another crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Unsung Heroes: Fashion
For Black History Month, Ink Staff members created the Unsung Heroes to highlight black pioneers and trailblazers who have paved the way for new generations of people of color. Unsung Heroes: Fashion highlights five trailblazers who are the blueprint and appreciated throughout the fashion industry.
Black History Month Unsung Heroes: The World of Rock
The influence of Black culture on music in the past 100 years is not only obvious, but priceless. From Robert Johsnon to Bad Brains and Duke Ellington to Thundercat, Black musicians across the globe have time and time again influenced the trends and directions of music, like Coltrane’s solo on “Giant Steps” and Hendrix’s use of the dominant 7 sharp 9 chord.
I Buy, Therefore I Am?: Excess consumption in the age of digital media
Our generation is known to consume the most amount of media all day, everyday. It is interwoven into almost every aspect of our daily lives. This can, of course, be attributed to the fact that we were the first generation to grow up with the Internet, and this type of constant consumption is normal because we have never known there to be a different reality where media wasn’t always readily available to consume.
The Nice House on the Lake: The Evolution of the Horror Genre
On June 1, 2021, the first issue of The Nice House on the Lake hit comic book stores. Written by James Tynion IV and with art by Alvaro Martínez Bueno, it took readers by surprise. Tynion and Martínez Bueno had worked together on Tynion’s Detective Comics and Justice League Dark, both to relative success, but this comic was entirely different from anything the pair had done before.
Androgyny as a Form of Liberation
In October of 2021, actor Billy Porter shared his thoughts on Harry Styles’ appearance in Vogue: “I had to fight my entire life to get to the place where I could wear a dress to the Oscars and not be gunned down. All he has to do is be white and straight.” Porter later issued a public apology after much criticism- but why?
INK Magazine’s top picks on how to celebrate this Valentine’s Day in RVA!
Love is in the air and Valentine’s Day weekend has finally begun! Whether you’re with your significant other or BFF, here are some adorable Richmond based date ideas to check out.
TBI
I was 16 years old when I experienced temporary blindness for the first time.
An elliptical ball, traveling roughly 60 miles per hour from the sheer power of the opposing right-side hitter’s biceps, had crossed the net to the 10-foot line, where I stood in the receiving position. Rather than contacting the plush pale forearms of my two outstretched arms, the volleyball touched the rim of a blocker’s right index finger and swerved 30 degrees upwards towards my head.
Young Mother Chef Looks Back on Heritage and Home to Pair with Detailed Service
Richmond’s food scene is making a comeback amid the still-lingering pandemic. As former pop-ups like Pizza Bones and Cobra Burger grow into their new brick-and-mortar spaces, others make names for themselves. Daniel Harthausen’s labor of love, Young Mother, is a newcomer to the scene. It sets itself apart with a focus on Japanese cuisine, sake pairings and strong front of house service, bringing a fine dining twist to the Richmond pop-up scene.
Hanifa ‘Dream’ Show Review
On a cold winter day in November, people flocked to the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC to witness something spectacular and special, the Hanifa’s Inaugural Fashion Show called Dream. The brand Hanifa is created by Anifa Mvuemba, a fashion designer based in Maryland. During the 2020 lockdown, she became well known throughout the fashion industry with a 3D digital fashion show called the Pink Label Capsule that gained worldwide recognition.
MUSIC REVIEW: The Dune Flowers – Tired of Being Nothing
The newest single from The Dune Flowers, a D.C. based project created by songwriter Tyler Drager, may at first seem like a departure from their characteristic sound. Where songs off their self-titled album rely on clean guitar tones and easy going, catchy ear-worms, “Tired of Being Nothing” employs more electronic elements and experimental production. Despite the track’s novel sound, Drager’s succinct and heartfelt songwriting style remains the same.
Unwind with Wines at Celladora – Wine Review
This article is intended for readers 21+. The ambiance is the first thing that stands out when you enter. Old soul classics played in the background. The interior was gorgeously decorated by Megan Lee Hopkins, the owner. The decor reflects her personality – inviting, inclusive, and knowledgeable. There was a constant crowd during the 3 hours we were there; I highly recommend calling in advance to reserve a table. It’s the kind of environment where you can sit and unwind for hours, which I did with our editor-in-chief, Jess.
Music Review: “No More Kim Kelly” – Death Plumes
Death Plumes (formerly known as Rocket Vomit) have taken the opportunity over the past few months to play gigs big and small. From the concrete steps of VCU’s Commons, to DIY home venues, and more traditional settings like the Camel, the three-piece have managed to make a name for themselves with their fervently abrasive punk sound that blends the traditional bluntness of the genre with a refreshingly heartfelt sensibility.
LILY HOBART: ON THE BEAUTY OF EARTH
Over the past two weeks, I’ve found myself getting closer to VCUarts landscape photographer, Lily Hobart (@lilyhobartt) – a junior in the Photography + Film department. We first bonded in September of last year after learning that we had both transferred from The School of The Art Institute of Chicago. After establishing a desire to be more connected to the wilderness, we both decided to come here. As time progresses and I work beside her in the darkroom, I’ve become increasingly enchanted by her portraits of Earth.
The pedestal of Robert E. Lee on the Monument Ave is removed
Richmond, once the capital of the Confederate States of America, is full of Civil War relics, including the Robert E. Lee Monument. The memorial was located at the junction of Allen and Monument Avenues. However, during the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement, the public was outraged of the display of a Confederate General who represented the country that sanctioned slavery.
WHEN NOTHING IS EVERYTHING
Philly shoegazers Nothing tore up Richmond Music Hall on Tuesday, December 7th. Highlights of the show included a guitar- specifically a newer-model Fender Jazzmaster- being thrown into the audience, cheesy dad jokes while frontman Dominic Palermo fixed his pedals, and yours truly getting right up in the band members’ faces for pictures.
6 Tips for Traveling When You’re Broke and Busy (And How You Can)
Traveling may seem like an expensive sport, but it doesn’t have to be. The semester just started, but it’s never too early to start planning your next trip, especially with spring break right around the corner.
Euphoria: Trans Fetishiziation and the Cisgender Gaze
I’ve always had a special connection to Euphoria. Trans representation was hard to come by, and while great shows like Pose existed at the time, there wasn’t any show besides Euphoria that spoke to my experience as a trans youth. Jules spoke to my experience in a way no other character I’d seen before had.
Alley Cat Allies
There are roughly 128.45 million households in the U.S., and it is estimated that one of every three households have at least one cat. That makes there out to be around 42.3 million house cats.
Shop small for BIG love: Valentines Day Gift Guide
Find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift from local Richmond businesses
Pop-up Show Spotlight: 12/12 at the Compass
Over the past semester, pop-up shows around campus have served to showcase the diverse range of talent, originality, and passion that exists in Richmond’s music scene. If you haven’t been to any of these shows, you’ve almost certainly seen their promotional posters taped to lamp posts, hanging on bulletin boards, or posted to social media. They have all been completely free, accessible, and have provided a space for artists to share their music in a welcoming environment that fosters creativity and individuality.
A Magnetic Night with The Driver Era
The Driver Era knows how to dazzle the crowd with their electrifying energy. The Driver Era, genre–fluid, band leaves the night *feeling confident* on their 12th day of tour at The NorVA. Their fifth time being back at this venue and they are as energetically inspiring as ever.
A chat with Sophie Copeland about her time at VCUArts, the ideas that influence her art, and challenges as a ceramic artist.
This past week I had the pleasure of interviewing a senior in the Craft and Materials Studies department, Sophie Copeland. Sophie’s elegant and edgy ceramic pieces caught my eye, and I grew curious about the meaning behind her works.
The Style Evolution: Meet Kennedi
The past year has been a rollercoaster for everyone in the world because of the hardships the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown had. The lockdown and pandemic has changed many lives negatively, but also positively. The period became one of evolution change for many aspects of life, particularly people’s fashion style. Since the ending of lockdown, students like myself have transformed their style to feel good and look good. I ask the staff at Ink questions about their style, and their style evolution before, during, and after the lockdown.
Last Night in Soho: The Evolution of Women’s Revenge Films
Recently, I had the pleasure of going to see Edgar Wright’s Last Night in Soho. It tells the story of a fashion student named Ellie starting her freshman year of college in London. After roommate troubles, she rents a room with an elderly landlady named Ms. Collins. After moving in, her dreams at night tell the story of a girl named Sandy, who lived in the very same room back in the sixties. She came to London with dreams of being a star, wanting to sing in nightclubs and be the next big thing on the London stage circuit. A man named Jack agrees to be her manager after she impresses him, and the two run off into the night.
Wolf Alice’s Sensational Performance
British alternative rock band Wolf Alice left a night to remember with their sonically powerful arrangements and high energy as performers.
Wolf Alice recently released Blue Weekend in the summer, four years after their second album Visions of a Life entered the music world in 2017. Listening from beginning to end of the new album, it really proves they carved out space to really craft their narrative within those years. Notably, they’re back with an unmatched talent with their storytelling.
The Style Evolution: Meet Noah
The past year has been a rollercoaster for everyone in the world because of the lasting hardships the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown had. The lockdown and pandemic has changed many lives negatively, but also positively. The period became one of evolution for many aspects of life, particularly people’s fashion style. Since the end of lockdown, students like myself have transformed their style to feel and look good. I asked the staff at Ink questions about their style-and their style evolution before, during, and after the lockdown.
Is ‘YOU’ Season 3 Worth Binging?
The much-anticipated third season of the Netflix original, ‘You,’ dropped on October 15th. For those who haven’t watched yet, either because you haven’t gotten around to it or debating if it’s worth it, here’s a spoiler-less recap of how the season went.
The Style Evolution: Meet Farrah
The past year has been a rollercoaster for everyone in the world because of the lasting hardships the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown had. The lockdown and pandemic has changed many lives negatively, but also positively. The period became one of evolution for many aspects of life, particularly people’s fashion style. Since the end of lockdown, students like myself have transformed their style to feel and look good. I asked the staff at Ink questions about their style-and their style evolution before, during, and after the lockdown.
Meet RVA: Adaora
This is Adaora, a Fashion Design major at Virginia Commonwealth University. Adaora caught my eye while I was running to my car, hoping not to get towed, and while she was late to class. Her colorful outfit and complimenting jean jacket demanded my attention, and knew I had to stop her before she slipped away.
Wallpaper Interview
Whether you’ve only caught a fleeting glimpse of their flyers, been to every show, or you’re just hearing of them now, Wallpaper is the sound on the street that no one can seem to turn away from. The band started last year at the height of quarantine and has managed to amass a dedicated fanbase, put on unique live shows, and spread their music through the streets like wildfire. I got to sit down with the band members, Andrew Milhorn, lead guitarist and singer, and drummer Jack Lwin to ask how Wallpaper has become the experience it is and what they plan to do next.
I forgive you, red-rimmed Erin.
When I remember your name, I still feel the foot-shaped bruise on my 9-year old stomach. I remember the muffled tears, the bus hopping, and the huddling in the left 12th row seat. Instead, I’d rather recall our time as sisters, cheek-to-cheek during the 40-minute rides on bus 52.
Humans of RVA: Vol. 2- Herbalicious Yogi
Kathleen Meier is a studying herbalist. Here, she shares her journey in finding herbs and where she wishes her practice to go, as well as voicing her opinions on the rise of herbal medicine in the Western world.
Artist Spotlight: Time Warp Drag
It was the first live show I’d been to all year. Everyone was spaced out for safety, wearing masks, sitting outside the dining hall and yet I barely noticed all that. For the first time in months the restrictions of the pandemic weren’t weighing down on my experience. All I could think about was clapping louder, and how fabulous the queens performing before me were. Did I mention it was a drag show?
Humans of RVA: Vol. 1- RVA Community Fridge
Meet Taylor Scott, the rockstar behind the RVA community fridge. She led the initiative to put up the first Richmond fridge, and, along with countless fridge volunteers, now has a second one up. Scott walks us through what it means to the Richmond community to have this fridge, and where she hopes it will go.
Richmond’s Graffiti Gentrification: The Underlying Effects of Street Art
When I moved to Richmond two months ago I was amazed by the art that seemed to pop up on every street corner. Everywhere I went, people were spraying murals and messages, like the city was their canvas. Having grown up in suburban neighborhoods, street art was a foreign concept, something only found in a “real” city. I had always associated murals and street art with a symbol of rebellion, the voice of the people who don’t care about the bureaucracy and the rules.
Twyla’s Memory
“Twyla’s Memory” is a seven-photo photo series exploring narrative elements in Toni Morrison’s short story, “Recitatif.”
The Reemergence of Vivienne Westwood, and Punk Fashion’s Relevancy in 2020
Vivienne Westwood was known as a style icon, specifically having heavily influenced punk fashion in the ‘70s. She was adored by the youths of the time, those who wanted to rebel against the prim and proper “squareness” associated with rule followers and government supporters and find styles that opposed the wide lapels and flared denim they so ferociously despised.
Who Wants to be a Billionaire
Every person has an ideal amount of money that they aim to make to feel comfortable and live the life they desire. People who throw the word ‘billionaire’ around aren’t using it lightly. Crossing that threshold takes an extreme level of intentionality.
Clotheslines: A Practice Unperceived
The whole process defamiliarized the weekly routine of laundry and after some time, the household chore became almost ritualistic and meditative.
Who Will Survive in America?
The year I turned thirteen, I became radicalized. I was not radicalized in a literal sense, as I was too young and too naive to understand the power I wielded. However, the year I turned thirteen, my innocence was ripped from my grasp and I was left to nurse the fleshy open wounds of fury and fear.
Sækyi Drops “Girls”
In a time-lapse to the past, Richmond’s SÆKYI releases new single “GIRLS” out May 11th.
Live from the Living Room: with DJ BoyGirl
DJs and Artists takeover Instagram Live to pass the aux, host listening parties, studio sessions, sets, and hangouts–all without leaving the house. COVID-19 self-isolation forces musicians to pin-up their side hustle by canceling gigs, but their sound is not muted that easy.
One VCU Master Plan: The Anatomy of Gentrification and VCU
Languishing in the sunshine while sprawled on the campus green sounds reminiscent of cinematic depictions of college campuses. However, with every added building and landscape, local families are left with no place to call home. Finding a place in the sun is easy, building a home isn’t.