NUBIAN ARTS
Issue#2
Mar.16th 2001

Jahstar's The Next Thing - Roots Arts

...with Benny Blanco from the Bronx

Recently, I enjoyed the privilege of attending Jahstar Productions’ Roots Art The Next Thing, an art exhibition and silent auction which featured the talents of a brilliant young painter named Brian Chambers, an up and coming band led by Guy de Chalus, and TiffanyDenise an amazingly gifted actress, performer, and writer. The event, which was held at the Stanton Street Settlement (a community outreach center founded by Gregory Drozdek), was free of charge yet complimentary food and drinks were provided to all the patrons. The auction proceeds benefited the Liberty Summer Project (LSP), a modern day extension of 1964’s Freedom Summer whose purpose is to develop young leaders of the future through leadership training. Paintings ranged from $100 to $500; natural, handmade aromatherapy, body care and healing products were also available for sale by Janine Fastina. The crowd was an eclectic mix of young professionals, and a good time was had by all.

I must say that I was thoroughly impressed throughout the evening. The art was magnificent. Chambers’ interpretations of urban culture were very well received through the several mediums displayed. His paintings both subtly and overtly represent the beauty of Rastafari. Through the superb usage of color, his work draws you in. It's not until you’ve been captured by the sheer brilliance that you can delve into the metaphoric symbolism behind each of his spiritually guided creations. His message of revolution, love, and repatriation is directed towards the younger generation. In his own words, Chambers professes that “it’s all about the youth. Till the soil so that the soil won’t spoil.”

Roots Art was more than a collection of paintings. It combined visual media with live music and spoken word. TiffanyDenise delivered two stunning performances including a provocative original skit. Her rendition of the Lady in Green from For Colored Girls… captured the crowd with what seemed to be an impromptu opening in the midst of the audience. The music was provided via stereo and live performance. The house band contributed the final artistic element in a truly multifaceted display.

I also had the opportunity to meet and interact with some absolutely inspiring people, both male and female. There was an easy-going, laid back vibe that was well supported by good music and plenty of free drinks. Commenting on the evening as a whole, one female patron described Roots Art as “a great chance to fuse with some beautiful, intelligent, and cultured singles.” The stage was definitely set for mingling. The venue was small, but it afforded an intimate setting amongst a select group of conscious individuals.

Jahstar Productions took the opportunity to debut their feature film project, “Death of Grace”, the story of a young Black mother who is held captive by a serial killer who tortures her by forcing her to witness the execution of his victims. Jahstar is currently in development of several projects, which include film, music and nightclub promotions. Their next event, scheduled for May 21, 2001, is a musical showcase that will feature a wide range of talent including Roots Art performer Guy de Chalus. If their last event is any indication of what to expect next, it will definitely be worthwhile. Jahstar has stepped to the forefront in order to bring a new consciousness to the entertainment industry. Their love of culture and dedication to humanity has certainly inspired me. I hope to continue my involvement in each of their events and projects.

NUBIAN ARTS Vol.1