This Thursday night marked the RAW:natural born artists Phoenix showcase at Monarch Theatre. The line was out the door for the highly anticipated event that showcased different mediums of art including photography, fashion, music, film, make-up, performance and visual art. When they first walked through the door, patrons saw the runway and a model for designer Ellyse Nichole.
Upstairs featured artists such as photographer Heather Ubil and her company Jaggedd Photography. Her showcase had a very American feel with cars and portraits. RAW events give artists a place to show off their creativity, and now reaches 60 cities worldwide.
Not only was Drew Siciliano showcasing his artwork, but he was also working for his company Ink Therapy Tattoo. In the middle of the RAW event, Siciliano gave fellow Ink Therapy Tattoo employee Dan Hall a tattoo.
Jewelry designer Cheryl Dent owns Candi Jewelry and makes her jewelry out of beads and fabric. The neckties can be tied around your neck or wrist or be used as a headband. Other artists had vintage clothing and handmade items, such as zipper boxes.
Schuyler Kennedy draws inspiration for his paintings from Mexican Catholic religious icons and rituals. He focuses on the notion of death and how it is interpreted within Mexican culture.
La Laz Photography featured pieces that were artfully edited to explore reality. The owner, 18-year-old Sadera Nye, said that she “likes photography because it’s the only way I can show people my dreams.”
iAm Jones combines hip hop and soul to make music that is unique and uplifting. He sang original songs and did his own rendition of the song “Latch” by Disclosure featuring Sam Smith.
Woman’s Touch Apparel, a clothing line by Jenesis Laforcarde, put on a fashion show with trendy looks and upbeat music. Other fashion shows included Candi! by Cheryl Dent and 4GivenLove by Emmanuel Hightower.
Artist Greg Frederick creates his art out of broken vinyl records. Pieces included portraits of Marilyn Monroe, Walter White and other celebrities and fictional characters. RAW encouraged the community to engage with the local artists, including Frederick.
Contact the reporter at Taylor.S.Bishop@asu.edu.
