Photography by Linda Struffolino
RAW: Natural Born Artists debuted their first of three Long Island showcases at Revolution Bar & Music Hall in Amityville.
Established in 2009, RAW currently hosts monthly showcases to spotlight outstanding indie talent in film, fashion, music and art, hair and makeup artistry, performing arts and photography in 54 cities across the U.S. In July 2012, RAW made its first international debut in Australia and in the summer of 2013 RAW launched in Canada. The fun, wildly popular showcase will debut in London this fall.
I had the pleasure of speaking with a few of the artists spotlighted on this awesome evening. Chris Medaglia, an art student at State University of New York and creator of Rebel Yes Art. Chris’ spray art is worthy of a “wow” – it can be described as a mix of pop style with a bit of drama for both canvases and clothing. This was his first showcase on Long Island; view more of his work and contact Chris via Instagram @rebelyesart.
Jared Long, an artist from Farmingdale is also the co-owner of ArtOffPaper with Brendan Munday and Chris Malfi. No strangers to exhibition, the trio had showcased their work previously at several venues throughout New York City and Long Island. As Long explained: Art is hardly taught; it’s an individual part of you. Art is much more that painting, design and drawing. Your craft (quite literally) how you express yourself and how you love life. Art represents YOU. Jared and the guys can be found on Instagram @JLong516 and ArtOffPaper.com.
Live performances included Illicit Vice, an Urban pop band based out of LA, along with Singer/songwriter Geminelle Rollins. Gem possesses an absolute talent you may have missed on this night – be sure to check out her music at www.geminelle.com!
Vicious Elegance custom designed shoes by Emily Vanessa are such beautiful creations! I admit it was hard to walk away from her table without purchasing several pairs of the ultra high heels or flats emblazoned with glitter and peacock feathers.
Rodney “Panic” Rodriguez had beautiful street artwork; find pieces like his “Art is My Religion” at panicrodrigez.com.
Ashley Yevick is a freelance artist her work can be viewed at her Facebook page.
RAW is a great opportunity for these truly talented local artists to spotlight their talents to the world. Long Island needs more avenues for local artist who are working so hard to be recognized by the fast-moving industry. The evening was a great networking experience! Having the privilege to spend an entire night around fellow artists is a good time indeed.
More Artist Links
Emily Vanessa Vicious Elegance viciouselegance.etsy.com
PnD Creations: curiousprinting.etsy.com
