Semester 4

Arts TRYathlon #1: Choose Your Own Adventure

Event Logistics  

February 13th, Howard University, Cramton Auditorium, Models of the Mecca, Eminence 

#fashion #art #music 

Rich, inspiring, and breathtaking are only a few words to describe the Models of the Mecca Eminence fashion show, which garnered full-body chills with each debut. When my dear friend Jaleen invited me to their fashion show debut for the Models of the Mecca, class Eminence, I had no idea what to expect. It was my first fashion show, and it left me absolutely speechless with each walk. Spikes in the hair, 50-inch beads alongside bedazzled durags, full body fur, alongside magnificent gowns- each look, crafted with boldness and a unique perception of the lengths fashion can go to as a form of expression and individuality. What I always loved about fashion is how much a singular look can express so much and evoke feelings in the eyes of the beholder. With a deep love for cultural expression in fashion, I find myself connected to the subjectivity and how expressive fashion can be. As I grow as a learner, passionate about diverse perspectives, I plan to continue analyzing the socio-political implications of fashion, and the deep importance of how one expresses themselves artistically to the fullest is one of the most important aspects of art. Being able to understand one's individuality and express that in art freely is one of my favorite aspects of being surrounded by a rich and culturally diverse environment within the arts scholars program, and life. The arts and humanities continue to nurture my love for the art of expression and the endless possibilities that can occur in an artistic environment, and I am excited for what the future holds as an aspiring Publicist. 

Arts TRYathlon #2: Choose Your Own Adventure 

Event logistics 

March 10th, University of Maryland, Stamp Student Union, Then, Now, and Tomorrow: CAPP New Acquisitions 

#visualart #multimedia # exhibition. 

When I walked through the Then, Now, and Tomorrow exhibition, I felt life exude from the pieces. By exploring themes of race, identity, and lived experience, each piece of work becomes an intimate expression of resilience, resistance, and representation. What I love about visual art that tells a story is the ability to truly feel the exhibits. I walked in not expecting to leave feeling connected to stories and lived experiences that I myself have not encountered, but I did. 

From Victor Quiñoez’s empowering piece of resilience to Elle Pérez’s portrait that emphasizes the beauty of self-expression through the objects that shape a person’s identity, the exhibition highlights the depth of individual experience. We see real, raw faces- faces one might encounter every day- that are authentic and worthy of value, understanding, and recognition. 

As an arts scholar, I have learned how to empathize with art on a deeper level and to appreciate the beauty found within diverse experiences. As a Public Relations major, I grew up immersed in the world of media, constantly seeing the faces presented in editorials, television, and popular culture. I found myself especially connected to those who looked like me and shared experiences similar to mine. This exhibition, however, explores a broader spectrum of real experiences. It inspires the kind of storytelling I hope to pursue one day in publishing by showcasing meaningful narratives and highlighting the stories that deserve to be seen, heard, and represented.