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Venus Williams Discusses ‘Widening The Lens’ Podcast [Interview] – Essence

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Photo by Stefano Ceccarelli. Courtesy of the Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh.

Venus Williams has long been recognized as a tennis icon, but her latest endeavor showcases her passion for art and her commitment to vital global issues. In , a multidisciplinary podcast presented in partnership with Carnegie Art MuseumThe sports star highlighted the complexity of the art world by facilitating discussions with authorities from various industries.

Although Williams has all the time excelled at sports, her love of the humanities began at an early age. “I think it was subconscious, honestly,” she says. “I was always a tennis player, of course, and that’s something my parents chose for me, and I thank God for that. But whether it’s fashion, interior design, fine art, it was a choice and it’s something I love and I’m very passionate about.”

Venus Williams Collaborates with Carnegie Museum Of Art on Pioneering Podcast ‘Widening The Lens’
Installation view Widening the Lens: Photography, Ecology, and the Contemporary Landscape, Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh (May 11, 2024–January 12, 2025); Photo: Zachary Riggleman / Carnegie Museum of Art.

In hosting the six-part series, which launched in June, Williams amplifies the voices of artists, writers, and scientists who explore humanity’s dynamic relationship with the environment. The podcast can also be a key component of , a groundbreaking museum initiative that addresses probably the most pressing challenges of our time: the ecological crisis.

This series is a component of the newest iteration of the museum’s renowned Hillman Photography Initiative, known for pushing the boundaries of how art and photography are experienced. The initiative features a sprawling exhibition of nearly 100 works by 19 artists, a strong schedule of public programs, and a totally illustrated publication, all designed to supply multiple perspectives on the American landscape.

“The process was just really eye-opening and educational for me,” Williams tells ESSENCE. “Understanding who the artists are and what they’re saying behind their photographs. Often we see a photograph but we might not know the whole story behind it. This podcast brings together a bunch of artists, writers, and academics to participate, so it’s a diverse, global perspective.”

Venus Williams Collaborates with Carnegie Museum Of Art on Pioneering Podcast ‘Widening The Lens’
Installation view Widening the Lens: Photography, Ecology, and the Contemporary Landscape, Carnegie Museum of Art, Pittsburgh (May 11, 2024–January 12, 2025); Photo: Zachary Riggleman / Carnegie Museum of Art.

While increasing access to art, engaging latest and diverse perspectives, and scary conversation across the exhibition’s key messages were the impetus for this collaboration between the Carnegie Museum of Art and Williams, promoting artists of color was equally vital, especially in today’s often prejudiced climate. “It’s important to advocate for these things because we all have a voice,” she says.

“As African Americans, our voices have historically been marginalized,” Williams continues. “But the amazing news is that there are so many prolific African American artists. There are so many artists who are creating groundbreaking work, work that is beautiful and thought-provoking and important. Interest in African American art is growing rapidly, and I love any opportunity to be a part of it.”

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Shaboozey on her YSL – Essence fragrance partnership

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Courtesy of YSL

Masculinity just got a brand new scent – and that is what it smells like Shaboozey. Starring Lil Nas XPeso Pluma, Vinnie Hacker and The Kid LAROI in the newest Yves Saint Laurent fragrance project “Bar song (tipsy)” artist is the newest to define the meaning of “modern masculine” beauty.

“The collaboration with YSL Beauty is truly exciting because the company has always been at the forefront of culture, redefining what it means to be bold and timeless,” Shaboozey tells ESSENCE. The musician’s true self-expression, showcased within the brand’s digital design “Born MYSLF, No Matter What”, represents the message behind their latest men’s fragrance MYSLF Perfume.

“I liked how we explored the concept that being strong doesn’t have to mean fitting into a box,” he says, topping off the country music genre with bleached-tipped wicks. “It’s about owning who you are, being real, and YSL Beauty gave me the space to show that.”

Known for his 18-week #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 (one week away from breaking Lil Nas the important thing to Shaboozey’s success is easy: balance.

From gym workouts to meditation sessions and knowing when to walk away, “for me, self-care was about finding balance,” she says, which is a chord that also strikes in the brand new fragrance. Vanilla bourbon in a YSL bottle, the extreme masculine aroma hits each floral and oud notes, providing sensuality and strength in equal measure. “She has that presence and stays with you, which is exactly what I need when I’m on the move.”

The global men’s grooming market is anticipated to be price $115 billion by 2028 (up 77 percent year-on-year) the boys’s cosmetics boom represents a obligatory shift not only from two-in-one shampoos and overpowering fragrances, but in addition within the definition of masculinity as an entire. According to Shaboozey, YSL’s latest fragrance is ahead of the curve. “YSL Beauty has a track record of pushing boundaries while staying classic, and that’s a vibe I’ve always admired.”


This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Kelis published her first children’s book, “The Seven Wonders of Africa”, inspired by her travels

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Kelis is a lady of many talents, and her latest featured work is as a children’s book writer. The singer announced on Instagram that she has written a brand new book titled, which follows the adventures of foremost character Abel Sabbath Brown across the continent. The singer also announced in the identical breath that she had began a brand new company.

“I’m so happy to finally show you something I’ve been working on. I WROTE MY FIRST CHILDREN’S BOOK!!! I started a company called MAKE IT BROWN,” she wrote within the caption on Instagram under a video during which she discusses the brand new book.

“We only aim to offer characters and stories about places and adventures that our youngsters can see themselves in. It’s all about love and representation. The inspiration to write down this story was my trip to Africa this yr,” she continued within the caption.

Over the past yr, Kelis has been giving us the travel content we didn’t know we wanted, documenting her travels across Africa. Artist Milkshake has traveled to places similar to Tanzania, Kenya, Zanzibar and Rwanda, immersing herself in local communities and agriculture.

The 45-year-old artist further wrote: “I traveled with my family and we were so grateful to see all the sweetness this continent has to supply. From the people to the bottom, it was just amazing. And I desired to share this with all of you and your families. I actually love us, so from the underside of my heart to you! Welcome into your heart THE SEVEN WONDERS OF AFRICA AND THE SABBATH BROWN. ❤️ #book #kids #To read #children’s book #Africa #eastafrica #to learn

The latest writer also announced in a separate post that the children’s book is now available on her website in paper, digital and audio versions.


This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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EXCLUSIVE: Bilal’s unfiltered genius comes to life live at Glasshaus – Essence

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Grammy Award-winning singer Bilal doesn’t need an enormous arena to dominate the room – only a studio in Brooklyn, 100 devoted fans and collaborators who understand the soul of music. On a December night in 2023, energy at Glasshouse was electrifying, with stars like Questlove, Common and Robert Glasper gathered close together, exchanging riffs and jokes as if the audience wasn’t even there. Now this magic has been closed and awaits its premiere on November 20, 2024 on Glasshaus’ YouTube channel.

Bilal isn’t only a concert film – it’s a mirrored image of his journey as some of the progressive and underrated musical talents. Directed by Glasshaus founder Jarrett Wetherell, the 65-minute documentary takes us on a rare, intimate performance. Alongside such influential collaborators as Questlove, Common and Robert Glasper, Bilal delivers performances which might be raw and electrifying, filled with the vulnerability and soul that make him an artist artist. The film captures not only the music, but additionally the unspoken bond between these legends and highlights Bilal’s position as some of the influential voices of our generation.

“This film is a love letter to one of the greatest singers of our time,” Wetherell reflects. “Bilal conveys a sense of vulnerability during his performances and interviews, which is rare among artists today. It is an intimate way that puts you in the studio with five legends, immersed in their music and the moment.”

it is a masterclass in creativity, captured in real time. Questlove turns a six-minute anecdote concerning the making of “Sometimes” into an unforgettable lesson in musical storytelling, while Common blurs the road between audience and performer, breaking into out-of-the-box freestyles and revisiting timeless verses from “Reminisce” and “Funkowo for You.”

In essence, the film is a love letter to some of the influential artists of his generation. From his genre-bending debut to underground hits like and , Bilal returns to his catalog with a fresh twist, delivering long-awaited releases just like the business release of “Something to Hold” and “All For Love.” Split-screen cinematography enhances the intimacy, drawing the viewer into every subtle moment – the movement of fingers over the strings, the glances exchanged during improvisation – all highlighting the magic of the music and the deep connection between these legends.

It’s Bilal who finally gets the flowers and each moment seems late. As Questlove put it best: “He’s Beyoncé’s favorite singer.” The film doesn’t just showcase Bilal’s vocals – it shows him as a cornerstone of the Soulquarian movement, whose influence is woven into the material of up to date music.

For fans, the experience goes beyond the screen. The limited edition 2xLP vinyl offers a tangible piece of magic, while the live album, released earlier this yr, is essential for collectors.

Watch the premiere on November 20, 2024 at 5:00 PM ET Glasshaus YouTube channel. Watch the video below.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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