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.
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.
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.
Artists to Watch: RVA Edition
Giving artists their flowers while they can still smell them
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 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.