Natural Beauty of the Week! Jaye Kennedy

Natural Beauty of the Week - Jaye Kennedy, tells us about her natural hair experience: 

Journey: I had relaxed hair just about all of my life up until mysecond year of college. I rocked the wrap, weaves, roller sets, twistees - youname it and I probably had it done. I grew up in a salon that my Uncle ownedand became very close with the stylists there, so I changed hairstyles the way I changed clothes.  Myhair was past my shoulders and layed on my back. But when I went away toschool I noticed it was thinning. The hard water there was so harshon my hair! I'm kind of a renegade, so one day I just started chopping offpieces of my hair until it was shaved in the back and had nolonger than an inch all around.  This took place November2006 and I haven't looked back since.

I had NO FEARS about going back to my natural texture. Ialways figured that if I didn't like it, I could always get a relaxer again. Mytrain of thought was always "It's just hair! It'll grow back!" Ican't say the same about my sorority sisters that watched me chop off chunks ofhair everyday though. They weren't as convinced as I was to say the least.

Products: Three products I absolutely can't live without are: TripleSilk Therapeutic Conditioner -it detangles, opens up my pores and keeps mycurls looking great. Murray’sBees Wax-sometimes my edges need a little help with staying undercontrol. A Banana Clip-they are the perfect tool to use when tryingto get a mohawk effect. They are pretty hard to come by these days though.

Advice for others: My advice to someone who is scared to embrace their naturalhair is simply this: If you don't like it, you can always go back to what youhad before. You only live life once. Why not try something new, you might loveit! Some people may not be as bold as I was and start from scratch bycutting all of their hair off but you can always wear braids or rock sew-insuntil you achieve your desired length. After all, it is just hair. It'll growback!

Interview with Natural Jael

Name: NaturalJael

Q: What is your hair story? 

A: Did you use water and grease inyour hair when you were a child? Well, my mom was sealing in the moisture beforesealing was called sealing. LOL. I appreciate my mom for not putting chemicalsin my hair at an early age. My hair has been an inch long and that was the truemeaning of wash and go. I actually used to call it “dry washing”. LOL! Afterabout seven months, I relaxed my hair again out of ignorance. I honestly didn’tknow what to do with my hair. My earliest memories were just water and greaseand I wasn’t feeling that any more. I wasn’t big on styles and hair salons. Ithink I have always known that I would eventually wear my natural hair, I justthought I would be in my 40’s. Now here I am back to water and well oil,instead of grease.

Q: What kind of hair styles have yourocked, before embracing your natural hair?

A: I was the typical black girl with relaxed hair – long and straight.Although, I wore rod sets, braids, updos and the occasional quick weave, sothere wasn’t anything unique about it. Although in 8^th grade, I hadmy natural hair rocking a shaved asymmetric hairdo. Picture day was flamingmess. LOL!

Q: When and why did you decide to startwearing your hair naturally?
 A: This quote by Arnold Glasow sums up my journey in 12 little words: “Parentscan tell but never teach, unless they practice what they preach.” It wasbecause of my daughter, I began my transition. I watched her hair morph intolifeless strands from relaxers, no balding spots or sores – just limp, lifelesshair. I made the decision not to relax her hair and to keep it braided. I

nowknow, this was the start of her transition. After a year with braids, shestarted to wear her natural texture and that is when the teasing began. Kidscan be so cruel and the constant teasing from the other kids devastated mydaughter. As a parent, one of the hardest responsibilities that come with thejob is to see your child hurting. Now comes the time to pick up the pieces. Allof the teasing and name-calling was because her hair did not look like theirhair – anymore. I constantly told her that she was smart and beautiful, notjust beautiful on the outside, but a beautiful person. I explained, as best Icould, that God made us perfect. Our hair is exactly how it is suppose to be.If he wanted us to have straight hair, He would have given it to us. But Hedidn’t. So be happy with what you have. There I was with long flowing relaxedhair, giving encouragement to my daughter – who was natural with short tightlycoiled hair. That did not make me feel good. As a parent, there are two thingsthat I have to remind myself of: children will usually do as you do and hardlyever do what you say. I feel like I should be the best example for my children– if not me, then who? Now, feeling extremely hypocritical, I came to a pivotalpoint and a decision needed to be made. Either I stay relaxed and relax herhair again or she stays natural and I transition. Now, four years into mynatural hair journey, we have no regrets.

Q: Did you have any big fears aboutgoing back to your natural texture?
A: Yes. My biggest fear was trying to figure out if my husband was going tolike it. He married the girl that went to the salon often, that had longrelaxed hair and I didn’t know how he would feel about natural textured hair.

Q: What are three products you can'tlive without for nurturing/styling your hair?
 A: Currently, Hydrothermal Naturals has my complete attention and throw in alittle olive oil and I am good to go. However, I can not forget my heat cap. Ilove the results of my weekly deep conditioning.

Q: What would you say to someone who'sthinking about embracing their natural hair, but scared about being rejected invarious parts of their lives?
 A: [Insert her name], you know, in life there comes a time when we all willcome to the cross hairs of making decisions. (Hand gesturing – do I or don’t I)During this time, you must take these seven steps:

1.       Knowexactly why you are going natural and wanting to wear your natural hair.

2.       Havea plan that will guide you through your transition.

3.       Setgoals to help you stay focused and take action to keep your plan real.

4.       Becomea life learner of natural hair.

5.       Makea commitment to keep an open mind about your natural hair.

6.       Createa regimen and make it a priority, make it important.

7.       Bepatient. I know this is easier said than done but it will help keep anxietydown.

8.       Don’tfret, your hair is growing J.

These stepsare important because they are the building blocks of your mental transition – which is an integralelement for a successful transitional journey. Think about these steps and Iwould love to speak with you more once you have thought about the answers andhave taken action.

Q: How can we keep up with you and yourjourney i.e. blog, twitter, facebook, fotki, tumblr, personal orprofessional website? (Optional)
 A: You can join me at: www.naturalhaircommunity.com

A: I tweetseveral times a day – so follow me: www.twitter.com/naturaljael

A: I postregularly: www.facebook.com/naturaljael

A: Watch ourvideos: www.youtube.com/naturalhaircommunity

Interview with Lia Miller

Tell me about yourself:

"I am a single mother of three daughters. One of whomis a teenager. I promote natural living, active parenting and aspiritually driven lifestyle. I am a commercial print and promotional modeland, have worked in nursing, the past 12 years. I also have background in highend fashion resale/retail and boutique ownership. I have lived in a total oftwo countries, seven states, approximately 25 cities and every coast in the US. I canrelate to most anyone. My talents are - cooking and concept creating. I standon an active children right’s platform, with a strong focus on the abolishmentof child sex trafficking. I enjoy - playing with my children, reading, cooking,quote and poetry writing, reflexology, attending concerts, swimming, finedining, natural alternative research and watching new films. I love my life andwould not change a thing."

Tell me about your natural hair:

"I have been natural most of my life because of mytri-racial makeup. I made attempts to use relaxers in the past, but chemicalsnever took to my hair. With one shampoo or drop of rain, my kinks and wavesreturned. I feel and look far better with my natural hair. Now that I amcompletely natural, to the point of just “wash and go,” it has affected me in avery positive way. I don’t have to spend any of my time styling my hair, norbuying an excessive amount of products. Being natural tends to bother some people."  Not everyone is "kink/curl fans. I ownmy beauty and can only encourage opposing views to remaining true to characterand self confidence. I have always described my hair as a war against manynations, that are all leading in equal victory. My hair is kinky, curly, wavyand silky. With a good conditioner and brushing, it becomes straight towavy.  My hair regiment is very simple. Ishampoo daily, with Miss Jessie’s Shampoo and Aubrey's all natural lavenderconditioners. Then just comb through wet hair with a large comb, shake and airdry. Occasionally, I mix and apply organic coconut oil and lavender oil to myscalp and hair. The Miss Jessie’s Super Slip Sudsy Detangling Shampoo is a musthave in my home, as my three daughters are also natural. It is a time, and lifesaver. The mistakes I’ve made with my hair that I have learned from are,applying damaging heat, going against my curl pattern and combing my hair whileit is dry. I enjoy a wet comb through and a ionic blow out, with a diffuser,when I want to switch up my style now and then."

What advice would you give others:

"One piece of advise I would give anyone that is newlynatural or considering the transition, is to allow the walls of dissimulationto fall. Remaining true to who we really are is far more admirable and selffulfilling. The very best thing about being natural is, freedom of embracing myorigin."

Lia is located in Atlanta, Georgia. To see more and learn more about Lia, go to -  Online Portfolio and her Blog.  To contact Lia, email her at www.vixenliamiller@live.com.

Natural Beauty of the Week! Tomayaful

Name: Tamaratare Omaya

Style Inspiration:  I love the singer Monica’s fashionsense...... and Brandy Norwood. Classy meets sexy is my style inspiration. I like collared work button upshirts with shorts, and a pair of heels, or short sexy suits....Big dazzlingearrings, bangles, and makeup. I love the bold red lip, the Smokey eye...pretty foundation... burgundy, and brown shades, and well as the nude pink orbeige look on lips. I also love false eyelashes to make my face pop. I love Glamorouseyes to go with the Glamorous afro! Whooooo!

Favorite looks on how I rock my natural hair: Chunky twistouts are my favorite it makes such a statement with me, and brings me out. Ilove it. I also like my hair in mini twists as a protective style, and I playup my look with big earrings, and pretty lips!  I love silk scarves with vibrant colors,and clips to accessorize the blown out fro, or chunky twist out fro.

Advice I would like to give other naturals: Look intothe mirror, and call yourself beautiful every morning. Please look at people onyoutube, there very informative, and theirs a whole natural hair community waitingfor you with open arms. Research, and ask other naturals questions. Take aprofessional photo shoot for more confidence. Try a different style every week.Make Natural hair goals, and length goals. Thank your creator with what he hasblessed you with, and DONT COMPARE your hair with someone else's.

To see and learn more about Tamaratare, go to Youtube & Facebook.

Interview with Nekiwa Smith

Q: What is your hair story?  What kind of hair styles have you rocked, before embracing your natural hair?
A: I started getting relaxers at age 5, so all I knew of my hair was the thin, straightened relaxed hair version. I wore every popular and trendy style in the book, from wraps, roller sets, extensions, braids, cornrows, buns, ponytails, you name it!

Q: When and why did you decide to start wearing your hair naturally?
A: I originally tried to go natural in 2003 but with a lack of knowledge on how to properly take of my hair, I went back to relaxing. In May 2009, I decided to transition again, remembering how healthy my hair was in its natural state. I knew and wanted my hair to regain its strength and health and knew I had to go natural again to get it.

Q: Did you have any big fears about going back to your natural texture?
A:Oh yes! There is a lack of support in our community regarding natural hair, especially during earlier years. Now, more and more people are becoming aware of the benefits and are starting to support and embrace natural hair and its culture. I have family members and associates that did not fully agree with my hair decision initially and aggressively tried to pressure me into relaxing. Some even stated that natural hair isn't "professional". My having my own business, I was definitely afraid of how potential clients might perceive.

Q: What are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your hair?
A: Most of the products I use, I make with ingredients in my pantry. I have to have Shea Butter, Aloe Vera Gel and EVOO(Extra Virgin Olive Oil). I use all of these in many of my recipes. I can't live without them.

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about embracing their natural hair, but scared about being rejected in various parts of their lives?
A: It took my husband a while to accept and view my natural hair as beautiful. Speaking from experience, making the decision to go natural is revolutionary. I consider this to be a revolutionary move being that the majority of society accepts other styles more so than natural hair. If you are considering going natural, know that you can do it, regardless of the rejections you might receive. Know that the health of your hair is more important that what any one could ever say, think or perceive of you. With natural hair, you will see your hair healthier than it has ever been, grow to long lengths and you will feel confident and empowered. Once your loved ones see your new-found confidence in what you're doing, it will be contagious and they will began to see your hair as beautiful as well.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey i.e. blog, twitter, facebook, fotki, tumblr, personal or professional website? (Optional)
A:  Find me at: Beauty As Designed, Twitter & Fotki

Interview with Charisma Manley

1.  How long have you been natural?

My last perm was in August of 2008. However, I transitioned for nearly two years after.

2.  Why did you go natural?

My inspiration came from many of my close friends going natural in high school. Also, I became a big fan of Kai at maneandchic.com, and followed her through her transition. I was so interested to see what my true hair texture looked like and just how long I could grow my hair, so I started my transition in my Junior year of college.

3. Do you have any favorite hair care products?

 I truly don't have any staples. Even three years later, I'm still experimenting with products. I have used and liked SheaMoisture, Kinky Curly, Miss Jessies and Jane Carter.  Also natural products such as coconut oil, olive oil, apple cider vinegar and raw shea butter. I'm still searching for staple products, but in the meantime I'm enjoying experimenting!

4. Do you have any favorite natural styles you want to share?

My go to style is the puff pony tail...quick, simply, easy.

6. Did you do the Big Chop? if so, what was that like?

 I never truly did a big chop. With my last perm in August 2008, I transitioned until 2010 with trims in between. I let go of the last permed ends in June 2010. Even so, that was such a liberating day to finally be free of the perm and able to wear my hair completely natural!

Charisma was photographed and interviewed by photographer Leon Dale. Thank you Leon for sharing this interview and beautiful photos with the Naturally Beautiful Hair Blog.

Leon Dale Photographer.
http://www.LeonDale.com
678 698 1604

Interview with Sashae!

How did your Natural Hair Journey Start?

I’ve decided to transition because I want to liberate mynatural beauty. I came to the point where I want to show myself and others thatto embrace yourself naturally is a blessing from the Creator and noone should ever be afraid to be themselves. Also I was tired of theperception that “relaxed hair” is the way to go. I want to be unique, andversatile in the way God intended.  

What inspired you to wear your hair naturally?

I’ve decided to transition to my hair natural because; I nolonger wanted to feel bounded my relaxers… Also I’ve came across many ignorantpeople; and I want to inspired others/myself by showing that natural hair isphenomenal. in addition I absolutely decided no turning back when I found yourblog/website honestly that is truly what has kept me going on my journey. Ms.Karen you are my inspiration; your work is greatly appreciated. 

Any fears you may have, had or have overcome?

During this transition stage I’ve been wearing extensions(to grow out my hair) I still need to gain complete confidence for when I’m100% natural to be able to wear it & not be afraid.  I have overcomethe myth that you can’t do much styling when your hair is natural; because“natural hair” is the most versatile. 

What your natural hair goals are for the future?

To have long and healthy natural hair. Also to wear avariety of styles i.e. Bantu knots, twist outs…

What are you favorite products?

Mane’n Tail Original Conditioner, Grapeseed & JamaicanBlack Castor oil, Elasta QP  leave-in H2.

What advice do you have for those who are afraid totransition to natural hair?

“Keep your face to the sunshine and you will not see theshadows." Making the decision to transition to natural may not be easy.However you need to overlook the negative things you’ll here from others, andbe optimistic about what you want. You should have Will-power, Patience, Commitment& Dedication.

Sashae's profile: www.hairlista.com/sunshine74

Interview with Classcie!

Name: Classcie

 

Q:What is your hair story?  What kind ofhair styles have you rocked, before embracing your natural hair?

A:August of 2010 was the last time I relaxed my hair before I decided to gonatural. My best friend was natural and she always told me I didn't need arelaxed but it took awhile for me to actually research the idea. After seeingmany videos and success stories about natural hair, I decided to try it out. Ibegan my transition by straightening my hair regularly. This continued forabout 5-6 months until I introduced myself to the natural hair community on YouTube. I immediately became infatuated with the idea of having long,gorgeous, textured hair and began to seek information on how to grow my hair outhealthy. I realized that I was not taking the protective route, I should haveand I immediately decided to put down the flat iron and do my first braidout.After that, I did braid-outs regularly and occasionally tried new styles likeflexirod sets and protective styles that allowed for all of my ends to betucked. After realizing I was having a lot of breakage, I decided to big chopon July 20, 2011 even though I planned on transitioning for 2 years.

Q:When and why did you decide to start wearing your hair naturally?

A:Most of my life, I have been relaxed. As soon as I was old enough for my hairto stand up against the harsh chemicals of a relaxer, my hair was relaxed. Inthe time that my hair was relaxed from age 10 to age 23, my hair fluctuated inlength. I couldn't really put my finger on why I couldn't get my hair to keepgrowing. My best friend told me I should go natural because I didn't need arelaxer and at the time, I really felt that I couldn't pull it off. Aftercareful consideration, I decided to go natural after realizing my hair wasn't ashealthy as I'd like.

Q:Did you have any big fears about going back to your natural texture?

A: Yes,I definitely had fears going into the process. When I first proposed the ideato my mother, she was not for it at ALL. My friends, however, supported me eventhough they thought I was nuts. My biggest fear was no one liking the look on me.Before I went natural, I had always worn my hair straight down. I never evenwore ponytails. So to go from long, straight hair to tightly curled hair was avery drastic change for me. Fortunately, almost everyone I informed of myjourney supported me and understood why I made the decision. Some of my friendseven want to try it out themselves and there's no better feeling than inspiringanother person. 

  

Q:What are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your hair?

A:My favorite product would have to be my Giovanni Direct Leave-In conditioner. ILOVE that product! It makes my hair so moisturized to the touch and I love the consistency of the product. Another product that I can't live without is myEcoStyler gel. Whenever I need to tame my hair to do something, whether it beto slick down my edges or eliminate frizz, I use EcoStyler gel in moderation.Shea butter has also worked wonders during my natural hair journey. I use itprimarily for my braid outs and twist outs and I love how it is light on myhair and doesn't leave my hair feeling greasy.

Q:What would you say to someone who's thinking about embracing their naturalhair, but scared about being rejected in various parts of their lives?

A:At the end of the day, what you do with your hair only affects you, it doesn'taffect anyone else directly. For those out there that don't want to embraceyour change and support your decision to go natural, if they are dear to you,educate them and explain to them why you are going on your journey.

Q:How can we keep up with you and your journey i.e. blog, twitter, facebook,fotki, tumblr, personal or professional website? (Optional)

A:Twitter = @classCie

Blog- www.classcie.com

YouTube- www.youtube.com/classcie

Here is video footage of my big chop - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuFvYnFE6cI

Diedre's Hair Story

Fellow blogger Diedre Callam talks about her Natural Hair Story -

"I created my blog,  keepitkinky.blogspot.com, for those who want options for managing their natural hair in any way that they desire.

I'm quietly emotional and extremely expressive. My often hidden explorative personality constantly oozes out of my scalp, nurturing the myriad of hairstyles I have done in the past five years. I've been locked-natural thrice, loose-natural about 4 times and relaxed about 2. Oh yeah, and I don't play with ideas of cutting my hair off. I just do it. I'll say what need not be said though, natural hair generally wins for me and is my preference. Right now I am newly braid-locked and loving it. If I could give a newly natural one piece of advice, it would be to love yourself. I don't mean the you that people see, I mean the you that is stripped down and clean every morning after a shower. Love that you and embrace your assets and your flaws. Self acceptance is the key to accepting more than just your natural hair but the natural you."  To learn  more about Diedre, check out her blog Keep It Kinky. 

Interview - Erika from Empty Locket

Introducing Erika. Fresh faced natural beauty! 

Q: What is your hair story?  What kind of hair styles have you rocked, before embracing your natural hair?
A:  My mother permed my hair at the tender age of 5. I started out with two long, kinky, beautiful braids and ended up with brittle, bone straight hair up to my ears by the time I was sixteen. I was in high school when I began experimenting with various products and black rinses. One day I showed up at my childhood dominican hair salon and the stylist who gave me my first perm looked at me with a sad face and she goes "Ay mami why you hair look so bad?" 

I was ashamed of my hair ever since. I struggled with my hair all throughout my teenage years and it was shedding more by the day. I began to get braids which I hated. They'd pull and tug at my scalp. I hated the smell of the green gel they used, the smell of weave and burned hair and grease and throbbing headaches after I was done. A few years later, I cut my hair off just out of the blue one day.  I grew out an afro that was big enough to wear in a small puff, but it was still shedding. I was using vegetable glycerin and I had no idea what I was doing with my newly natural hair, I didn't know how to care for it at all. One day, my coworker and I were having a conversation about hair and she simply asks "why don't you get dreadlocks?" I thought about it all day and that night. I decided to do my research on locs and how to care for them. I wanted to go to a reputable salon to get them and I decided on Deeply Rooted in Atlanta, GA. I printed out two photos to show the stylist exactly how I wanted my locs to look :-P.  I drove 4 hours to Atlanta and my locs were born.

Q: Did you have any big fears about going back to your natural texture?
A: I have always been comfortable with natural hair but since it was so short, I didn't feel like it fit me or my personality. Some women look beautiful rocking a fro, but I did not and I knew that. I was especially afraid of how others would view me, but I quickly got over that and began to make the best of my hair as it was :).

Q: What are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your hair?

A:  I don't use many products on my hair anymore at all. For me, the health of my hair is mostly internal. So I'd have to say water, a good diet and my aloe vera gel.

Q:  You have a great  natural hair blog. What was your inspiration for starting the blog? And what has been the most rewarding part of your blogging experience?
A:  EmptyLocket initially started out as a personal blog where I had planned to talk about my love life (or lack thereof :)). But I  quickly realized that I was a lot more comfortable and interested in talking about my hair. A lot of my friends at college were interested in going natural and would always come to me for advice. I enjoyed educating them and seeing their faces light up when I'd give them transitioning tips, etc. It came as second nature to me and I decided to turn my blog, into a hair blog.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey i.e. blog, twitter, facebook, fotki, tumblr, personal or professional website? (Optional)

A:  http://emptylocket03.blogspot.com!

Interview with Natural Beauty - Isimot

 

   

Name: Isimot

Q:  How long have you been natural?
A: I have been natural all my life and when I was 5 years old I asked my mom to give me locs. It was pretty weird to hear a 5 year old asking for locs but it was something I really wanted and I have had them ever since, i am now 22 years old.

Q: Why has it been important for you to follow your heart, and not give into the pressure to have permed straight hair?
A: It was always important for me to follow my heart and not give into the pressure to cut my locs, and perm my hair or straighten it because I always knew I had a passion from a young age for my locs and I felt completely comfortable being different in my skin and with my hair naturally. In 1994-95 (when i was 5) you did not see many little girls with locs so having locs then always allowed me to stick out like a sore thumb but I loved it. I was always one to be against the grain and that is what has kept me from even having the smallest desire to cut my locs, get a perm or wear bone straight hair.


Q:  What would you say to someone that doesn't feel like they are beautiful with their own natural texture?
A: I would say that it takes time, it takes patience that one must have with themself. When that time finally comes when you accept yourself and your natural hair texture that is when you will feel you are beautiful. The most amazing part about finally reaching that point is the sense of liberation that comes with it. But time is of the essence in order to reach the point where you feel beautiful and liberated with your natural hair texture and yourself overall.

Quote: "Living is pretty, and being free while living is beautiful."  ~ Isimot

*To learn more about Isimot, see her on Twitter or on Youtube.

  

Interview - Artist Walter Hamilton

Q:  I love your art work. Where do you get your inspiration from?

A:  Inspiration came from a leg injury.  This made it impossible for me to stand and dj. A lot of my investment was wasted and all the time and energy put into learning my craft at that moment was lost.  I became upset and began to break up records.  Came back down to the basement some time later and had the idea to start doing the art you now see.

Q:  Did you go to school to study art? Or are you a self taught artist?
A:  Other than the art classes that everyone takes in elementary, middle, and high school, no.  I did take a beginning painting class and beginning drawing class once at Herron Art School, but those courses were quite basic.  I have always been great at pencil and portraits; however the rate in which I finish a piece is quite slow and so I don't draw very often.

Q: How long have you been a creative person? At what point in your life did you consider yourself to be an artist?

A:  I’ve always been an artist.  From drawing afro black guys with shades to shoes onto cartoons and portraits.  Even style wise and other aspects of life and seeing things, to my cooking and food prep, to costume making, and on and on...  I have the "eye of the art".  

Q:  What part of your art career has been your proudest moment?

A:  When I sold a piece for my brother.  It was First Friday at 45 Degrees on Mass Ave, Indianapolis, last April.  I told my younger brother Gabriel, who is a great artist himself, to do a vinyl record piece of Bob Marley.  It sold that night and the feeling that I had I have never had before and haven't had since.  It was such a good feeling.

Q: What types of mediums and materials do you like to work with? Do you have goals of learning how to incorporate new material that you have not used before into your creative work?

A:  Vinyl Records is the medium of choice at the moment.  Vinyl seems to be the oldest musical listening medium that has stood the test of time.  Vinyl owners have this bond with vinyl, people will keep vinyl for years never play them, yet never throw them away.  From cleaning the vinyl to setting the needle properly in the groove, playing vinyl is a ritualistic act.  I am not quite certain what medium I will explore next, since I feel I have not fully exhausted this medium yet.  With that said I would like to explore stained glass and stand alone sculptures.  I would like something that will stay around and be a functional or at least stationary either indoors or out in the elements.  Art is problem solving and getting to how I will make it happen, I have not solved yet.

Q:  What advice would you give someone that wants to get into art? Or someone like me that loves to create art, but is feeling like they are is not progressing?

A:  Hard question...  Well I would say #1 everyone can do art.  It is important very early to understand your style and even more important not to compare what you do to others.  If you are not always looking for acceptance in your work and in this crazed journey to become better, you will enjoy all that you do.  Do whatever comes natural, and then try to build on it.  Learn from others, copy, reproduce, and don’t get too hung up on being revolutionary or original.  All these may come to you but with time, practice, with knowledge of self and style.  You can’t always draw and create the way you want to- that’s because your desire, dreams, and goals always surpass what you can actually produce.

Q: What are you futures goals as an artist?

A:  Be in the Smithsonian or another collection that will ensure that others see my work for generations.  Above all, reach as many eyes as possible!

Q:  How can people find you?

A:  Facebook: Walter Lobyn Hamilton 

www.vinylrecordartist.com

Follow on twitter @Vinyartist

email me: Lobynh@gmail.com

Interview with Yarminiah

Q:  It is wonderful to see young successful business woman. How did you get your start in creating your jewelry line?
A: Thank you. I have dedicated seven years of my life to the fine arts. In that time I have studied/collaborated with artists of all mediums, but did not delve into jewelry making until a year and a half ago. P U R P O S E began at the end of last summer, a time in my life when I was eager to keep my work moving in new directions.  It all began one morning when I felt particularly unmotivated, staring at a gigantic pack of matchsticks sitting in my room. I don't recall how the vision came to me but I found myself some glue and began creating earrings out of matchsticks. After a week I'd perfected the design and couldn't stop making them. I showed my sister, Yaminah, and she was incredibly inspired. The concept of making jewelry out of ordinary materials was born and we couldn't be more excited. We had begun a new chapter of creativity. Yaminah and I spent weeks hunting for new materials and began creating different unique designs. Then we began a blog. Deciding a name for our jewelry line was a no brainer- we had found a sense of purpose and hoped to share it. We sold our pieces at a local festivals and area selling in Spain and soon the Canary Islands! We are deeply invested in keeping P U R P O S E growing as a company and as a source of artistic inspiration. It has taken on a life of its own and created a new space for enriching collaborations! 

Q: You are currently studying in Barcelona Spain. How is your experience there?   What was your motivation for studying abroad?  And what is the culture like in Spain?
A: I am in college studying fine art in Spain.  My experience in Barcelona cannot be described in one word. The architecture is breathtaking, and the open markets make your mouth water with their vibrant colors and fresh fruit. All the apartments have balconies with flowerpots and laundry drying on a string; its very picturesque. This city has granted me my first taste of flamenco dance. lI have been able to learn & converse with locals and others studying abroad. In addition to taking all my classes in Spanish, I have also learned a bit of Catalan, a dialect specific to Barcelona. I have been able to experience who I am as an artist outside of the United States while collaborating with other artist here as well. As for my decision and motivation to study abroad, my family is from Honduras and Puerto Rico and after having visited both countries several times, I developed an appetite to explore. I've learned that Spaniard way of life is much more relaxed than in the United States. The Spaniards rely on a basic schedule that allows time for

relaxation and work. Many work in the morning, have coffee break at around 11, siesta/lunch from 2-4pm,resume work at 5pm, and a late dinner at around 10-11pm. This took some time to get used to but it is such an efficient way to spread your time out-something I am not used to living in New York. Also many here are family oriented. Almost every Catalan I know goes back home every weekend to spend time and have dinner at home with their families. One interesting fact is that there are numerous  Spanish youth who wear their hair locked here. I have seen youth with hairstyles that are a mixture of a shaved head, curly bangs and long locs all on one head!

Q: What is your hair story?  Have you always had natural hair? Or did you experience a need to change at some point in your life?

A:   I have pretty much been natural my whole life. I've only had one perm and one texturizer in the 20 years I've been alive. My older sister has been a mother to my hair. I have adapted practically everything she has learned throughout her hair journey, except she now has loc's. When I was younger, she administered avocado, mayonnaise, and egg yolk treatments every weekend. All of that formed my hair journey. It was after I moved to Miami during high school that I began wearing my hair out in an afro. It was my high school friends that encouraged me to take a risk and let my hair be what it wanted. After Miami I moved to New York for college and saw so many other naturals which helped me further develop  confidence and I began trying new styles. I even dyed my hair a rusty blonde! Up until my move to Barcelona, I took New York's palette of style for granted. In Spain, it is a different type of stare that I get on the streets, one that shocked and made me uncomfortable at first. I have only recently begun wearing my hair out as I had to ease into being comfortable with the stares. Natural hair and personal style shouldn't be so shocking.

Q: Have you experience in any negativity or had any experiences because of your natural hair?
A:  Of course there are always strangers on the street who have something to say under their breath as soon as I pass by, even in the US. Some of my extended family members simply don't understand why I won't just get a relaxer, but with the negativity also comes admiration. Many appreciate the confidence required to rock such a bold hairstyle.

Q: What are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your hair?
A:  Honestly, I don't style my hair much. But when I do - olive oil for moisture, spearmint essential oil to tame dandruff. I find that Alaffia’s Every Day Shea Moisturizing Shampoo (its free of synthetic fragrances, parabens and sodium lauryl sulfate) and  a big toothed comb are an absolute must.

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about embracing their natural hair, but scared about being rejected in various parts of their lives?
A: At the end of the day, it is you and your hair. You have to face your fears to not only challenge your character but also to develop a sense of who you are! People cannot make those decisions for you. If you  are ready to embrace your natural self, then you must surround yourself with people who can accept you and encourage you.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey i.e. blog, twitter, facebook, fotki, tumblr, personal or professional website? (Optional)
A:  P U R P O S E jewelry blog  

P U R P O S E online store      

P U R P O S E mood board    

Interview with Latrenia Bryant

Q: You are an amazing photographer. How did you get your start in that profession?

A:  Aww..thank you for that compliment! When I was in grade 6 we had a guest speaker come to our class to talk about his profession; he was a photographer. I was excited because although I had not owned a camera at this time I had seen the magic of Polaroid and other instant film cameras and wanted to know more about that entire process. He brought enough cameras so each of us would have our own; once he showed us what to do and how to handle the camera we all went outside to photograph whatever we wanted. After we shot our 12 exposure 35mm film we labeled it with our name, the photographer gathered all the rolls up and told us he would be back in a few days to show us what we had captured on film. Once I saw my images I immediately knew I wanted to be a photographer. If you would have asked me what I wanted to be before that experience I would not have been able to answer you but after that experience if you would have asked me that same question I would have smiled and said without hesitation "a photographer". Unfortunately, as I grew up I encountered some negative comments about my choice in wanting to be a photographer. I was told multiple times, "photography is a hobby not a career and how many black folks do you know who's a photographer?" hmmmm… family can influence you in ways you may not even be aware of.

I went on to become a Nurse but my camera was always near and every opportunity I had to use it I did. The love of photography never left my soul. Once I became an adult, meet and married my military husband, had a child of my own, traveled to multiple states and a foreign country, while befriending other photo and art enthusiasts I finally felt like I was encouraged to do what I truly loved. I felt like all those avenues provided a positive vibe for me to step out on faith to do what makes me happy. Needless to say, I'm one happy camper today because I'm doing what I love.

Q: What is your hair story? What kind of hair styles have you rocked, before embracing your natural  hair?

A: My hair story??..wow, how much time do we have?..lol..I have many but I'll only share two.

Late last year around December I was standing in line at the grocery store when I could see a young black male staring at me. With a slight smile, I turned to look at him and when I did he says to me in his island accent, "why you do that to yourself?" (looking at my hair) I looked puzzled, kind of confused. He says to me while he chuckles, "I'm scared of women with hair like that." Now I'm starting to get what he's trying to say and I say to him with a smile on my face, "hmm really? Because I'm scared of men with island accents" That shut him up real quick and he went on his merry way. Now, I'm not really scared of men with island accents. I just wanted him to see how ridiculous that sounded.

I got married August 1995 and I NEEDED A PERM BADLY. My last perm was around March 1995. During that year I had told a few people my plan to go natural and I would no longer be getting perms. Needless to say, they were not supportive at all. They laughed and said, "You’ll get a perm! When that stuff get nappy enough you'll do something" . I was not laughing. I knew then I would prove them all wrong. On my wedding day I gelled my hair back with lots of styling gel and covered it with my Veil. Months would pass and still not a lot of support from those who knew me. The negative comments kept coming such as, "You look like buckwheat, when are you gonna do something with that mess". It had gotten to the point where I would not discuss my hair with anyone who could not support me. I had a plan. I knew what I was doing.

What I found most hurtful was the fact that all the negativity was coming from my very own people...AFRICAN-AMERICANS! I would get plenty of comments from non-blacks both males and females but very little from those with the same skin color as me. It's sad that others could see the beauty in me but those closest to me in my own community could not.

I love my hair and if I had to repeat that same journey I would do everything the exact same way.

Before going natural I rocked a few styles such as braid extensions & beads, press & curls, a bob wig, box braids, finger waves, jheri curls, afro puff ponytail (w/drawstring/comb attachment), sewn in hair weaves and of course PERMS!! Ugh!! The perms were the final nails in the coffin that made me say bye-bye straight hair.

Q: When and why did you decide to start wearing your hair naturally?

A: I originally knew I wanted to wear my hair naturally when I first laid eyes on Caryn Elaine Johnson AKA Whoopi Goldberg in the 80's. I know she isn't what a lot of people would call beautiful but I thought she was as well as the coolest thing ever! A black woman, with long thick rope like natural hair who's funny, seen on television, stage and movies. She appears to have been accepted by all regardless of her look. I felt her look was telling the world, "Hey this is me .. love it or hate it" and I loved it!! BUT once again I was influenced by family. I was told Whoopi wasn't pretty and they hated her hair. I didn't want them to think that about me so again, I let years pass without making the move to go natural. It would be the mid-1990's and seeing singer Lauryn Hill of the Fugee's before the thought of going natural would surface again. Lauryn Hill and I were close in age. She was beautiful and rocked natural styles in ways I had not seen before. I knew then I was going to go natural. That was the push I needed.I researched everything regarding natural hair. After growing 10 inches of natural hair I went to a Loctician while living in Orlando, Fl. and started my loc journey. I've been loving my loc's for 9 years now; it's been one of the BEST decisions I've ever made. I've always loved the look of loc’s. I never felt like I was being true to myself when I wore other styles. I thought I was trying to be something that I wasn't. I feel so free now. It's a life altering journey. I'm happy now!

Q: Did you have any big fears about going back to your natural texture?

A: Oh yes! I feared the negative comments from those closest to me such as family & friends. I had to remind myself often that I was an adult now. I couldn't and shouldn't be influenced by my family. The only person that has to be happy with my appearance was ME. I'm only given this one life and darn it I was gonna be happy and live my life. If you didn't like it then you're the one with the problem, not me.

I'm a good person and if I could not be true to myself how could I raise my son to be true to himself and to be the best person he can be. My son is 10 yrs. old and he wore an afro and braids until last year when HE decided he was ready for a haircut. He and I talked and he's aware that natural hair is a crown of glory that signifies pride and acceptance in who you are. It took me years to get that, he's just 10 and already has it. I'm proud of him. Ps.. those who were slinging the negative comments before have nothing but praise for me today. Victory is sweet!

Q: What are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your hair?

A: First, as a pre-wash I use Sea Breeze astringent on my scalp. Secondly, Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps to wash my hair. Currently I'm using the Almond pure-castile but they also come in other varieties such as tea-tree, lavender, etc. I've tried them all and love them all. Lastly, OILS, OILS, OILS!! lol.. I mix my own concoctions together in a spray bottle. The oils I love mostly are rosemary, almond, olive, carrot, coconut and jojoba oil. I usually pick 3 and mix them together. Rosemary has a very loud smell so I mix that one with a sweeter smelling oil such as lavender.

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about embracing their natural hair, but scared about

being rejected in various parts of their lives?

A: What would I say!?... hellooooo! I'd say DO IT!!! I'd shout it from the mountain tops...lol.. no but really, I'd highly encourage them to do the research, prepare yourself for some negative comments, be strong!! Listen to your inner voice because in the end you're the one who has to be happy. Eventually everyone else will come around if they aren't already there. Make sure you go to a licensed loctician to have them start and maintain your locs in the beginning. They can help educate and guide you through the wonderful world of all things natural. I don't make many promises but I can promise you this, going natural will be the best decision you will ever make! Not only will your hair go through a transformation but your soul will too.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey i.e. blog, twitter, facebook, fotki, tumblr, personal

or professional website? (Optional)

A: I'd love to follow and hear some of yalls (sorry I'm from the south..lol) own hair stories. I'm on facebook if you'd like to pop in to say HI! I have a personal facebook page as well as a fan page for my photography (Latrenia Bryant Photography) stop by there and LIKE my page. I have a website at http://www.lbryantphotography.com/ and from there you can also get to my blog. I must warn you.. I'm a bad blogger...lol...I don't post as much as I should but that's going to change. I will be posting some new stuff soon.  Also, I'm going to do a special blog dedicated to my hair journey. I'm without a scanner right now but once I get one I will be scanning images of me before the locs and during the transitioning stage. I think It might help a lot of those who's still struggling with the decision to step out on faith and go Au Natural :-)

Twitter?...hmmm... I'm thinking I might get into that before the year is over... I'll take my own advice and step out on faith :-).