"It's not about the change, it's about the change"

PHOTOGRAPHY

*PHOTOS* ARTS BEATS & EATS NETWORKING MIXER (RECAP)

 

Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia organized by Shaheed Rucker , Curran Swint and Gianni Lee that contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts , Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy , book , clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guest on health , political and social ills that plague our community. Individuals are able to enjoy live art , spoken word ,  and fine music while shopping different local vendors.

This month’s theme focused on the donation of shoes , members and attendees helped provide over 400 pairs of shoes for the Covenant House organization which is an organization that provides services to homeless and runaway youth. Taqiy Muhammad controlled the easel , creating classic paintings in a timely manner. Guest enjoyed various vendors across the city including Neo Daviso , DNTN Brand , NatrlBornHeartbrkers ( @TheNatrlBorns) , Vth Color Clothing Brand @VthcolorClothin) , Mijourne Jewelry , CovaaGurl Jewelry , Chai Tea Vintage , Ahmood Mirage , and Maryann’s~Daughter. Spoken word artist traveled from as far as Boston to perform , artist Royale L’radin and Maroon Mirage shared their passion on the main front performing multiple pieces.

Overall Arts , Beats and Eats continues to be a success thanks to our continuos supporters and new teammates Lauren Thilmen and Danielle Jeter. We look forward to February’s Arts Beats & Eats “Superbowl Sunday” Black History Edition 2.5.12.

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*PHOTOS* ARTS BEATS & EATS “TOY DRVE” – CHANGEMAKERS ORGANIZATION

Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts , Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy , book , clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guest on health , political and social ills that plague our community. Individuals are able to enjoy live art , spoken word ,  and fine music while shopping different local vendors.

This month’s ABE focused on the donation of Toy’s for the holiday season. I would like to personally thank those who continuously support this great cause.

Photos by Mianna Charles

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PHOTOGRAPHER JOHNNY MANNION Q&A WITH RICK ROSS FOR ART BASEL

Hip Hop and Entertainment photographer Jonny Mannion held a Q&A event with Miami bred artist Rick Ross this past weekend. Mannion displayed classic work at the event ,  photos of Jay-Z’s “Reasonable Doubt” ,  Aaliyah and Biggie Smalls were some of the work displayed. Mannion focused on his most recent shoot with Rick Ross for his upcoming album “God Forgives , I dont”

“I wanted this album to feel more like a movie , I wanted to give the people a movie type feel. This album is more introspective and eclectic” says Ross.

Mannion and Ross sat on stage as Mannion went through a slide show of art work that will be included in Ross’s album art. They both explained the nature and detail of each photograph from fashion , pose and setting.

I love photography , I love the art of photography. I feel like when I’m old , I’m going to come across certain photos and peep every detail to enable me to know where I was and what I was doing during the time I took the photo. – Rick Ross

The event was a great success , I met many aspiring talents in various trades and look forward to learning and growing in the Art of Photography.

Check out photos from the event by following the link below.

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FORD MODEL + MR. BRAINWASH CELEBRATES LOVECAT MAGAZINE “ART ISSUE”

Art Basel took Miami by storm once again this year with tons of events and social gatherings. Artist and professionals worldwide gathered in Miami’s Art District and Miami Beach to display and view various forms of Art.

This particular event was the Launch of Lovecat Magazines “Art Issue” that featured Mr Brainwash. The event was sponsored by Ford Model , Jack Daniels and Dream Water. The event was a major success that assembled many creatives like members of Falling Whistle , Ford Models and Warby Parker.

I had the pleasure of attending and meeting so many great people , check out some visuals of the event after the break.

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*PHOTOGRAPHY* MEEK MILLS – KENDRICK LAMAR – THEOPHILUS LONDON

I had the pleasure to photograph some of music’s talented artist as Spectrum organized another fantastic event during University of Pennsylvania’s homecoming. Students assembled at the Irvine Auditorium to watch some of the most talented artist display a great show. Artist included Philadelphia’s own Meek Mill , Los Angeles Kendrick Lamar and Brooklyn’s Theophilus London. Each artist engaged the crowd with their significant approach to music. The students certainly enjoyed the show as they took a break from their scholastic responsibilities.

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*PHOTOS* CHANGEMAKERS ARTS BEATS & EATS “CANNED GOOD DRIVE” 11.6.11

Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts , Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy , book , clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guest on health , political and social ills that plague our community. Individuals are able to enjoy live art , spoken word , wine tasting and fine music while shopping different local vendors.

This Month’s efforts was the collection of canned goods for those less fortunate during the holiday season. Our members and supporters did a great job in assisting in this great cause.

Special thanks to the vendors and attendees as we look forward to you next month.

Follow the event planners here @Change_makers , @Curran_J , @Giannilee

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DRAKE’S OVO FESTIVAL (TORONTO) FT * RICK ROSS * THE WEEKND *

Over the weekend I had a chance to visit Toronto , Canada to attend Drake’s 2nd annual hometown OVO festival . I had the opportunity to take photos at the concert that featured Rick Ross and The Weeknd The crowd enhanced my experience as they took the concert to another level with tons of energy through out the whole night. The artist performed hit after hit while moving the audience all night. Drake surprised the crowd by bringing out J.Cole as they performed their collaborative hit “In the Morning”. Moments later Nas hit the stage and performed classic hits “If I Ruled The World” and ” Nas Is Like”. Drake continued hit after and hit and surprised the crowd again by introducing Lil Wayne as they performed various tracks together.

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HISTORIC HARLEM – THE BLACK MECCA

This past week , I had a chance to travel to New York and explore Historic Harlem. Harlem was once known as the “Black Mecca” in America because of the millions of African Americans that migrated there after the civil war. Harlem was also the place where Malcolm X resided and practiced during the civil rights movement. During my quest I found many historic landmarks and cultural monuments. I had the chance to visit the Audubon Ballroom where Malcolm was assassinated. Check out some cool photos I captured during my visit and read more on Harlem by clicking the link below.

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WIZ KHALIFA | NAS | THE ROOTS & ESPERANZA SPALDING “ROOTS PICNIC”

Another classic event!  I was thrilled to attend the 4th Annual Roots picnic saturday  with some of my all time favorite artist. The crowd was engaged and the stage was rocking.  I arrived just in time to see Esperanza Spalding perform , Spalding is the 2011 Grammy award recipient for best new artist , making her the first Jazz artist to win the award. Her performance was chilling as she did a outstanding job maintaining her soulful vocals while playing multiple instruments. In a matter of minutes Spalding became one of my favorite artist.

Wiz Khalifa also hit the stage bringing tons of energy  as he performed hit after hit. I was struck by surprise a bit as I under estimated Khalifa’s stage presence. He seem to have lots of fun on stage as he danced and engaged the crowd. Wiz also showed love and admiration for Philly’s own artist Beanie Sigel , Young Guns and Freeway by letting them perform during his set. State Property artist performed classic hits turning the crowd up a couple more notches.

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MODEL – BROOKE SLADE | PHOTOGRAPHER – SHAHEED RUCKER

I had the pleasure of improving my photography skills with model Brooke Slade. The shoot was amazing as we both improvised different looks and scenes in a timely manner. Slade has an outstanding resume and is in the process of accomplishing more. Brooke has done work for Nicole Miller , DKNY Runway , YSL Beaute , Davids Bridal and Vera Wang. Slades isnot hard to find , you can find her on Billboards nationwide for Empire Beauty Schools. Slade was selected  for the 2010 NFL campaign , Cosmopolitan Magazine  and has recently landed a gig on a Bravo Reality TV show.

In the near future , Brooke will be the “It Face” when you comb through every magazine or ad. Her current goal is to continually land conducive gigs , build print clients , catalog work and  to branch into commercial/acting. Be on the look out for the beautiful Brooke Slade. Enjoy more photos by clicking the link below

Follow Brooke here –>> @msslade

Post & Photos by Shaheed Rucker // @Change_makers

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STOP KILLING OUR CHILDREN!!


BOMBING FOR PEACE IS LIKE FUCKING FOR VIRGINITY


Arts, Beats & Eats “Mayflower” 1 Year Anniversary

Arts , Beats & Eats is a social networking mixer that contributes to individuals career through network and community service opportunities. Each monthly theme surrounds philanthrophy , education and community service efforts. Guest are able to grow personally and professionally while enjoying live art , wine , spoken word and shop local vendors.

This month’s theme was our 1 Year Anniversary Floral Display event “Mayflower” This event is held each first sunday of the month at Primo Bacio Ristorante located at the Towers At Wyncote 8460 Limekiln Pike.

Special Thanks to everyone who attended and those that continue to contribute to our quest towards “Change”.

Event Planners – Shaheed Rucker @Change_Makers , Curran Swint @Curran_J , Gianni Lee @Giannilee

Check out photos from this event by clicking the link. Photos by Shaheed Rucker

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Jean-Francois Campos x Fashion Photographer

Check out these amazing photos captured by photographer Jean-Francois Campos , Styled by Vittoria Cerciello and Model Denisa Dvorkova.

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CYL *Taste*

Over the weekend I attended a wonderful event with plenty opportunities and network.  The “Taste’ event was crafted by CYL (Compliment Your Lifestyle ) for forward thinking females to network and build significant relationships while enjoying fine dine . The event was held at the Union Trust Steakhouse one of the most grand venues in Philadelphia. In attendance were goal driven women who shared the desire to prevail and become successful in various professions and crafts. The event was chic and tasteful and served beneficial for individuals interested in taking their careers in forward direction. Brand affiliates in conjunction with this event were Ladies of Herfly , Brown Girls Run , Stylish Thought , Kings Rule Together and Changemakers Organization.

CYL – @ishandmar _ Ish , @IshandMar_MAR , @StyleAli , @Curran_J

Post by Shaheed Rucker / @change_makers , Photos by Curran Swint  @Curran_J  & Shaheed Rucker

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*The Trendy American* A Day in the Park

The Trendy American highlights significant captures in style , attitude and behavior that is deemed Trendy in todays society. Check out a few candid shots of some trendy Americans.

Post & Photos by Shaheed Rucker / @Change_makers

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Meagan Good introduces La’Miya

A couple years ago I was invited to Meagan Good’s splash party at the Hotel Victor on South Beach. The event was well polished and very intimate. The event was a showcasing of Meagan’s older sister La’Miya singing talent. La’ Miya has appeared in various films and sitcom’s such as “Sister , Sister” , “The Wood” , “The Parenthood” and “The Parkers”. La’Miya was also in the R&B group Isyss , As a group they achieved moderate success in 2002 with their debut album “The way we do”  and “Day & Night” ft rapper Jadakiss. The event featured various entertainers and celebrity guest such as basketball players Drew Gooden , Keith Bogans and Roger Mason , Model Eva Pigford and Danger from “For The Love of Ray J”. The performance was live and energetic and many of the attendees showed awesome love and support. Be on the look out for  La’Miya’s future projects

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Arts Beats & Eats “Stress Relief” 4.3.11

Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts , Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy , book , clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guest on health , political and social ills that plague our community. Individuals are able to enjoy live art , spoken word , wine tasting and fine music while shopping different local vendors.

This Month’s theme was “Stress Relief” and Womens Fitness month. Individuals were able to gain understanding on the importance of relieving stress and staying fit.

This event is organized , planned and promoted by Changemakers Organization (www.changemakersorg.com) , (KingsRuleTogether.com) and (BabylonCartel.com )

Follow the organizers here @Change_makers , @Curran_j and @Giannilee.

 

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MJ Rare Photos

Check out these rare photos of Micheal Jackson

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J.Cole | DJ Diplo | Chase Allen | DJ Aye Boogie

 

 

I enjoyed a well organized show by SPECTRUM ( Student Planning Events Commitee To Represent Undergraduate Minorities)at the University of Penn.  Under the warm “Friday Night Lights” 3 artist and 3 DJ’s hit the stage for a dope concert. I had a chance to check out a few of my current favorite artist in J.Cole and Philadelphia native Chase Allen (www.IamChaseAllen.com). There was never a jaded moment as DJ Aye Boogie(www.ImAbstract.com)  and DJ Diplo kept the crowd engaged by spinning the latest in House , Hip Hop and R&B. Check out the Photos by clicking the link below.

Photos & Post by Shaheed Rucker @change_makers

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Shavonne DeAnne “Spring/Summer 2011″ release

It was a deep pleasure to have been invited to Shavonne Deann’s  (www.shavonnedeann.com) Spring/Summer 2011 release. In every aspect the event was a great success, Great people, Great Music, Great Fashion.  I was elated to see such flair designs. Each look expressed panache and excitement for the season ahead. The vibrant color schemes and cheetah prints merged precise. It was a sincere enjoyment as I engaged in a very special evening as an admirer of fashion and creativity.

To check out Shavonne’s work visit here www.shavonnedeann.com , Also follow her @ShavonneDeAnn

Photos & Post by Shaheed Rucker @Change_makers

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Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show

On a cold rainy day in NY me (Shaheed Rucker , @change_makers)  , Curran (@Curran_J , www.kingsruletogether.com ) and Fajr ( @stylishthought , www.stylishthought.com ) decided to attend the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show. The show consisted of a host of great vendors and shops on the east coast. Although I didn’t purchase anything due to the suspect prices my name was pulled from a raffle. I received a $400 voucher to a massage spa in Manhattan. I guess i made out on top. Check out the photos below by clicking the link.

 

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Chicago in Black & White

I always had a deep interest in Photography and the city of Chicago. I traveled to Chicago in January to embrace a cold windy day in the “Windy City”. The gloomy clouds and cold weather sparked the idea of capturing all black and white exposures. I traveled downtown , North Chicago , West side (K – Town) and attended a Bulls game. The game was an important game vs the Orlando Magic. MVP candidate Derek Rose took control of the game and proved why he is in the top runnings for MVP by beating a Championship caliber Orlando Magic team despite missing there center Joakim Noah due to a hand injury. The experience was a thrill and I look forward to visiting Chicago again this summer for the “Taste of Chicago”.

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Miami (South Beach) Spring Break 2011

Work was the mission for me and my partners Curran J (www.kingsruketogether.com) Gianni Lee & Naddir (Babyloncartel.com) and Johnny Rabbit (anmlhse.com)The weather was perfect as students took a break from studies and engaged in fun. I had a pleasure of meeting individuals from all parts of the world.  Aspiring artist , entrepreneurs , doctors , lawyers etc from various schools around the nation assembled on South Beach to network and have a blast.

Check out the photos below

Photos by Shaheed Rucker (@Change_makers)

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