What a week… As we close down the year and surely many are thinking “what a year”! For me this was the year that allowed me to know more about myself and how I am still determined. Where most are retiring for sure by this age, I find that life continues to present a new wave to surf. Like many, I wondered about my finances, which, where and how ? Not truly until this year did I really take to heart and mind what my dear Iman @the_real_iman said to me many years ago, that “you are relevant”. I tried to say, “so were certain other people” she would clarify the difference. With all that I have achieved, I never gave myself too much credit. I was busy just changing the world around me, because that was my revolutionary calling. Grateful I am also to @naomi who would not allow me to lay back too long, as she would call me to arms. She knew I would persevere. She knew to help save our industry and the models of color that a significant respected disruptor was needed. That be me..”Ma, you need to come back it’s bad”. She was my eyes. Blessed them both because, when I stepped up, they stood strong. Success was had. This year, recognition and honor is being given to me, as I find ways to help others to be stronger at what they do. I have been given an opportunity to survive comfortably. My recent plight to help strengthen the businesses of young designer brands of color has given me “flight”, next level. I do what I do because I am called to do. Thank you @cfda Grateful that I am rewarded by a luxury brand like Gucci that reached out to join forces with me. While we help the global world with their initiatives #changemakers, it also affords me to help my world of black designers. I want to thank all for the support and gratitude. Especially for being so happy seeing me in Gucci pre-fall 2020 lookbook. @gucci and the vision of @alessandro_michele. All to say..,it’s not how you start, not the bumps along the way, but it’s how we end. Grateful for another year of learning that we are meant to survive, especially if you are a “do-gooder”. But for sure this year because I still see the support, the respect and acknowledgements, I am relevant. So grateful !
What a week… As we close down the year and surely many are thinking “what a year”! For me this was the year that allowed me to know more about myself and how I am still determined. Where most are retiring for sure by this age, I find that life continues to present a new wave to surf. Like many, I wondered about my finances, which, where and how ? Not truly until this year did I really take to heart and mind what my dear Iman @the_real_iman said to me many years ago, that “you are relevant”. I tried to say, “so were certain other people” she would clarify the difference. With all that I have achieved, I never gave myself too much credit. I was busy just changing the world around me, because that was my revolutionary calling. Grateful I am also to @naomi who would not allow me to lay back too long, as she would call me to arms. She knew I would persevere. She knew to help save our industry and the models of color that a significant respected disruptor was needed. That be me..”Ma, you need to come back it’s bad”. She was my eyes. Blessed them both because, when I stepped up, they stood strong. Success was had. This year, recognition and honor is being given to me, as I find ways to help others to be stronger at what they do. I have been given an opportunity to survive comfortably. My recent plight to help strengthen the businesses of young designer brands of color has given me “flight”, next level. I do what I do because I am called to do. Thank you @cfda Grateful that I am rewarded by a luxury brand like Gucci that reached out to join forces with me. While we help the global world with their initiatives #changemakers, it also affords me to help my world of black designers. I want to thank all for the support and gratitude. Especially for being so happy seeing me in Gucci pre-fall 2020 lookbook. @gucci and the vision of @alessandro_michele. All to say..,it’s not how you start, not the bumps along the way, but it’s how we end. Grateful for another year of learning that we are meant to survive, especially if you are a “do-gooder”. But for sure this year because I still see the support, the respect and acknowledgements, I am relevant. So grateful !
I am often told I am “cool”. When said to me, I wonder what does the person, who is saying it, what have they observed ? Often I am also told “I want to be you when I grow up”. Young and old have said as they marvel how I move through the life. Perhaps I was destined to finesse myself through or was it through parental education, a good amount of life teacher exposing me to the basic rules for a better life. Not financially better per se but culturally. Just the basic norms of how to behave. Trust me, knowing and having good manners can take you a long way. Unfortunately you perhaps know people who seem to be succeeding in their careers and do not have the good manners of a hog. Manners have amazing value. That to me is being cool. Willi Smith, deceased designer, had that “it” factor, of great manners and elegant class. I always marveled at that, he was young and just knew all the right things to say and do. To me that is the ultimate of cool. Being able to hold a conversation at a dinner party, remember a name, sending flowers, a hand written note, a token of appreciation. To me these are the most basic things to elevate your life, moving forward. Believe it or not comes great spiritual results. A person is happier internally. Being kind, helping another for no other reason then the obvious, just being conscious and nice gestures. It doesn’t get any more cool than that. One thing for sure, everyone is not meant to be cool unfortunately, otherwise it wouldn’t be special. But we all should try to be in the “cool club”. Efforts have perks. These listed I would say are small pearls of wisdom. Consider its like breathing, good for your overall health. *Elijah Cummings “the coolest” no doubt. Rest In Peace 🖤 #willismith #diahanncarroll #steveheitt #peterlindbergh #isabeltoledo #gonebutnotforgotten
As we come away from Passover into the Resurrection of Easter Sunday and soon the holy month of Ramadan, we truly face a new day. To me this photo lends itself to the feeling of being pious, a sense of longing, which seems suitable during this stretch of religious observations. Taken last August ‘19 on the roof of my dwelling in Marrakech by Photogragher Pieter Henket. It’s the first time I have shared this image but somehow felt its spirit lent to this very moment in time, as I pray and dream for a better day then today. That scientists find their way to a vaccine for Covid-19. That the black-brown communities recognize that they/we are not beyond the virus. That we all learn from this experience, what needs to improve. No matter how big or small the effort or results, we need to make an effort to improve our lives. This is a wake up call and not let others die in vain. Best we think differently moving forward. Best we look at our love ones differently. Best we decide where to go from here if and when we survive this pandemic. I long for all, only wish I was capable of doing more. I can only share my wisdom through this medium. Love the passion and devotion of the first responders, who deserve our un-dying support by any means. Recognize all the celebrities, musicians, athletes, and others who are ringing the bell with their generosity and charitable efforts during this global “mind blow”. I am basically concern with the ignorance of others who are making light of this virus as they endanger others and themselves. I want to wake up in a new world when this is over, not return with a wipe of the brow. Too much has been sacrificed to return back with the attitude of “business as usual”. Praying for the universe and mankind to make a sharp u-turn. Sending my love and respect to all jewish, christian, muslim followers an all non-believers. This earth and its inhabitants needed a break but unfortunately at such a deadly and financial cost. #stayhome #changethecourse #flattenthecurve @pieterhenket @boomproductions @riaddarmoda @hardibabe @kadeemhardison
Every so often in life you meet someone that suits your soul. The only way to explain it, its “karmic”. I met Bart Grzybowski in 2013. It may appeared that we might not have much in common, race, gender, age, cultural background, yet our relationship was immediate. Connected we were for sure. Bart cared for me from our first encounter. Others imagined what they thought, but we were beyond the imagination of most. He was “my guy”. That is how I referred to him. Labels are useless more often then not. He never cared about what anyone thought, only my well being. How often do we experience that ? We hung tight for four years before he finally was called to the open air of Colorado. Things happen at the right time no doubt. Both of our lives goes on, happily. Every so often there is that special human gem that functions advanced of any assumption. A special spirit in my heart with many fond memories. Wishing my very dear friend a very Happy Birthday 🎂🎉🎁 💕with eternal love. #blessedbytheloveofothers
Celebrating the end of a peaceful week in the Catskills. Going into next week of super busy November and then December to finish the year in great rhythm. Inspired by The Dynamic Dozen High School Dance line. Shoutout to their coach. Major!!! In my next life, I am going to go to this high school, it definitely surpasses being a cheerleader, no doubt. My old claim to fame. Good weekend to all!!! #flexibiltyiseverything #workingtowardswinning @supa_blackgirl
Clarity and the value of knowing self is important as we move forward through the first Full Wolf Moon of 2020 (Jan 10-11). Happy New Year to all !!! I am looking forward to the future of this decade. I reflect on the past as a foundation for my future but I don’t ever over-reflect in what was. Because there is a lot to achieve moving forward. This is truly not the time to worry about the whims and opinions of others. Running your own race and recognizing “time is of the essence” has never been truer. My objective is to be as physically strong as possible, so good health is everything, to be able to live the life that is being provided. I know now and have always had a strong sense and belief of self. Not necessarily my value to others, that has come with time. I have been challenged by what others thought was the right way or just “the way” to go about this life. It was obvious to me that I knew better. The industry and social society was on a different page completely at one point. I knew I needed them to make a correction. Surely it would not be of popular opinion but it had gotten out of hand. And whoever was leading and following, obviously was not expecting my point of view. I couldn’t worry what they thought of me as they were traveling in the wrong direction. One of the greatest things about aging and being “full grown” is being around longer than most, with the experiences and wisdom (besides talent of good sense), that gives you the upper hand on what was, oppose to what is. In my case, I have been blessed along the path of being well respected, liked and barely ever a negative word. Being stern in my beliefs, when training employees, or saying no to potential models, I might have been referred to as a “bitch”, which is easy to live with. To me I always felt that is said out of frustration, never offended. I am a social educator. I am tough love, for anyone I advise. I have more to give and do, then being concern of the opinion of someone who is in the wrong direction. This is where the importance of self awareness comes in. Know your purpose because everyone has an opinion.
On Tues, Sept 24, in Paris, goodbyes were said to Peter Lindbergh, an exceptional fashion photographer who so happen to have an exceptional character, with a kind and sweet soul. It’s taken me sometime to get back to social media, in general. Then the death of Peter, prior to his, Isabel Toledo, then after Peter, Marina Schiano, all really set me back. Perhaps some of you barely heard of Isabel and never of Marina. All three were important, at different times and part of the trenches of fashion. On August 28th, Peter and I sat together on a flight, Ibiza to Paris. I introduced him to David Blaine who sat on the other side of us. David brought his magic of card tricks, blowing Peter’s mind. His 17 yr old son Joseph joined us and shared in the experience. Peter shared with me how happy he was to have his island home this summer, with just his wife and son Joseph, not inviting all other family members for the first time. How great it was and how he thought to repeat it again next year. He felt the peace it brought him. I couldn’t agree more. I told him he was “preaching to the choir” by telling me. On August 31, Peter sent me the most endearing text…. “Dear Bethann…each time it feels somehow like “home” when seeing you, wherever it is !! with love, Peter” Three days later, I learned he had passed away. The light went out. When we shared that plane ride, there was laughter, life updates, and Blaine’s mind disturbing magic, that Peter got a huge kick out of. He told me about his travel to Sweden for British Vogue, to photograph the young activist. His upcoming Dior book that he convinced them of what he wanted to do. We spoke of business reps, what was, and what is. He like me, seemed happy with life. He spoke of his teenage son, (who was lovely to meet) a beautiful boy. And Bonnie Berman (former model) who he loved working with and I had represented. Life always seemed to bring us together. We all loved Peter…Peter loved us. It’s hard to lose the magic of a special soul. They do not get replaced. That is the difficulty in losing Peter. We can all testify to that. Peaceful travels dear sir… you truly will be missed. 🖤
Funny how life is… Seldom has it happened to me but a few times…I was able to say “live and let live”. Because the energy it would take for me to create what was needed to “destroy” or embarrass them, was not needed, what and who would it truly satisfy ? Something said or done falsely, should be corrected to truth, but even then, sometimes not worth the energy. No bullhorn is big enough to announce to all the truth. Best to take it one by one as you meet or if asked. Eventually this too shall pass..and you be a better more peaceful person for letting “sleeping dogs lie”. Our breathe is precious these days. Finding time to breathe deeply would have more value then correcting someone’s action and trying to make them pay for their inappropriate behavior. Because in the end….”It ain’t nothing but a squirrel trying to get a nut”. Deep breathes….
These two…Stephen Burrows and Willi Smith were my everything as I was growing up in the garment business. Two young, talented designers who were my bookends as I grew into my own and worked closely with each of them, separately. First I started with Willi (on the right) who eventually made Stephen aware of me. There is a lot to say about each of them, but it will be in the book 🙂 Surely you would be more aware of Stephen Burrows, due to learning of Versailles in ‘73, then perhaps Willi Smith of WilliWear who passed away in late 80’s. Now you can learn much more about Willi due to the soon to come Museum exhibit. If only you knew how important this is to me…that both will have had a museum exhibit which adds to their legacy, acknowledges their existence and contribution to the fashion industry. I could go on about them both but there is not enough space. They both meant everything to me. They were not friends, but liked and respected each other greatly. So come out, tell all, learn more about this beautiful soul, an artist gone too young, and view the Willi Smith/WilliWear exhibit. Willi Smith Street Couture Opens.. Friday, March 13, 2020 Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum 2 East 91st Street New York City photo by: Bill Cunningham @bcunninghamfilm @stephenburrowsworld #willismith #williwear #cooperhewittmuseum @acunninghamcameron p.s. Another designer of color Jay Jaxon (deceased) another contemporary of ours, an exhibit is up in Queens. @queens_historical_society Just know these exhibits in support are rare. I was instrumental in Stephen Burrows at Museum of City NY…and great aid to Willi Smith exhibit. Jay Jaxon I heard from the curator @rachelext that it has opened. Proud of each. #excellence
Going in 2020… It’s all about clarity and order. Surely being of fit mind and body, and a sense of what you want out of life and the work you must put into it to achieve a great result, should be the goal. It’s not all about good looks although it helps. But realizing that working hard to achieve one thing can lead you into another. Be clear…we all won’t get to the finish line as winners, but we all need not be winners to get there. It’s the life we choose and often times, it’s chosen for us. No matter how much we think and desire to be perfect, sometimes being successful or fit of sound mind and body, it just ain’t in the cards. Doesn’t mean game over. Just means often times, different game. So going forward let’s pick our lane, work towards what can be accomplished. Don’t look to see what others are doing unless you are bored with yourself. “Learn to run your own race” as my coach Palmer use to say. You lose precious time being concern, looking back, to the side or too far forward. Not meant to squash dreams, just the need to be in the realistic realm. Often times we are wasting time on desire and not recognizing ambition. Remember, “all that shines ain’t gold”. Bronze, silver even brass can be suffice. As long as you make it happen your way and you succeed to have a little that is yours, instead of a lot that ain’t. Be careful of biting off more than we can chew. It’s tricky times. And my United States is on a tilt. Be conscious. Be wise. Eyes in front. Meanwhile Happy Birthday @tysoncbeckford And a very special shout out to Rep. Hakeem Jeffries who spoke on the vote to impeach yesterday. @repjeffries, you were brilliant.
Today I celebrate….Joy, the memories of others and my present self. Every day I wake and smile at me. Things aren’t the way they were physically, healthy though I be, standing tall with shoulders back is a feat. Lower back reminds me of my time on earth. Other than that, it’s all so beautiful to witness another day, another year with little worries, what more to do than smile, the very first thing. “A lot of us didn’t make it this morning”…I often say, when asked how am I or when others complain about trivial things like the weather. How silly, I think. To live gratefully and to achieve is our purpose. As a child I always danced. Became a popular child tap dancer under the guide of the “hoofer” Duke Baldwin. I performed many places, even on the stage of The Apollo. Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire and the Nicholas Bros. were my inspiration. Tap dance was one thing but as I grew dance in general was almost everything to me. I could dance practically any dance. Salsa being my favorite. My parents were “jitterbuggers” so dance was in my DNA. All the good dance clubs died during 70’s 80’s, The Loft, Paradise Garage, Luviticus and Area. My first club as a teenager was the Latin Palladium on Broadway, it was everything. Dance is still everything. I dance at home, Salsa plays in the kitchen as I cook. But I learned just last night, that the club Cielo energy has carried on. There is a new location. That is how a birthday gift can come, in all shapes of knowledge, most are not tangible. So happy to learn a place nearby that will continue the spirit of Frankie Knuckles. I have Latin music at home so that will suffice. Today I celebrate me. Talking about dance reminds me of what’s necessary on many levels. The freedom of expression, our creative journeys, being in control of the outcome is just like dance. That said…a shout out to all my fellow Libras who are so creative and kind, enjoy this life, surely there is more on the other side. And to all other Zodiac signs, ditto. Feliz Cumpleaños!!!
February 29th is the birthday of designer Willi Smith, a leap year baby. Blessing is …the museum exhibit celebrating him will open at the Cooper Hewitt March 13th. This is his year. Though he passed in 1989…finally we celebrate. On this last day of Black History Month I share how proud I am of this, of him and another dear one in my life. Duro Olowu…his exhibition opening at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago on Thursday evening 2/27/20. Exceptional !!! What I am showing is a tiny slice of whats shown and it ain’t clothes. It’s some of the greatest contemporary artists, curated by Duro. Titled “Duro Olowu Seeing Chicago”. These two images that I took speaks more to me and about me, then the art being displayed. As it’s an enormous art show in size, this display shown reminded me of when Duro and I first worked together. His first New York fashion collection show we worked to cast and present, which happen three seasons consecutively. The talent of Duro is unimaginable, as it’s vast. Duro and Willi Smith would have loved each other. They have similar characteristics and capabilities. Just to say this fashion component is exceptional as is the art that surrounds it. It’s only a slither of the display but it’s the angles that I shot that allowed me to express my joy and what I could look like everyday. I am so proud that both exhibits are happening now and that I have been a part of their lives as they were in mine. True art…True talent.., With so many talented people of color in the arts, and other skilled executives that we never chance to see the work you achieve as it’s behind the scenes, still we see you and feel your spirits doing great things. As we face the unknown, do all to keep the immune system strong by eliminating bad and incorporating good habits. Conscious living is everything now and is for always. #timenottosleep #betterhabits @duroolowu #mca #willismith #williwear #cooperhewitt @acunninghamcameron
February 29th is the birthday of designer Willi Smith, a leap year baby. Blessing is …the museum exhibit celebrating him will open at the Cooper Hewitt March 13th. This is his year. Though he passed in 1989…finally we celebrate. On this last day of Black History Month I share how proud I am of this, of him and another dear one in my life. Duro Olowu…his exhibition opening at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago on Thursday evening 2/27/20. Exceptional !!! What I am showing is a tiny slice of whats shown and it ain’t clothes. It’s some of the greatest contemporary artists, curated by Duro. Titled “Duro Olowu Seeing Chicago”. These two images that I took speaks more to me and about me, then the art being displayed. As it’s an enormous art show in size, this display shown reminded me of when Duro and I first worked together. His first New York fashion collection show we worked to cast and present, which happen three seasons consecutively. The talent of Duro is unimaginable, as it’s vast. Duro and Willi Smith would have loved each other. They have similar characteristics and capabilities. Just to say this fashion component is exceptional as is the art that surrounds it. It’s only a slither of the display but it’s the angles that I shot that allowed me to express my joy and what I could look like everyday. I am so proud that both exhibits are happening now and that I have been a part of their lives as they were in mine. True art…True talent.., With so many talented people of color in the arts, and other skilled executives that we never chance to see the work you achieve as it’s behind the scenes, still we see you and feel your spirits doing great things. As we face the unknown, do all to keep the immune system strong by eliminating bad and incorporating good habits. Conscious living is everything now and is for always. #timenottosleep #betterhabits @duroolowu #mca #willismith #williwear #cooperhewitt @acunninghamcameron
On this International Women’s Day… I recognize Stacy Abrams who had the strength to run for office in her state of Georgia. And she came close to winning. Now she fights to eliminate voters suppression. It’s takes me back to when people of color were not allowed to vote, or once they could, made so difficult, the vote couldn’t be counted. Rights seem to come and go for the poor and people of color. I heard recently if you were incarcerated, your right to vote exist. But for years I had heard that right was lost once you went to prison it was “a wrap”. Stacy Abrams is a brilliant example of the Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth of today. As she honors the rights of all to vote, I honor her commitment to fight to correct systemic desire to cheat. Her desire to be the President of this country as a woman of color says everything about her strength and conviction. No matter what she achieves I am just happy she exists. Reminding others of what’s possible and their personal responsibility. #vote #helpothersvote #getoutthevote2020 #stacyabrams
My apologies…it’s been awhile. Knew it’s been too long, especially during this pandemic of Covid-19. People start to worry not knowing, hearing or seeing, concerns grew. Started getting random text and calls worldwide, “are you ok”? You don’t realize how loud the noise of the media regarding New York City must be to others on the outside. We definitely are in a fight for our lives with “a competent invisible tiger”. This virus is obviously no joke and the western part of the world is struggling to address. Un-prepared were we and too privileged to recognize the demands in preparation to win the battle. It would be best for me to have a loudspeaker to share my personal experience since I watched the Corona virus heighten in China. I took it serious immediately from a distance as I traveled. I was aware and saw it’s effect, response and results. I hope we and the rest of the country stay with it. Listen to your good officials, mayors and governors. Huge shout out to New York, de Blasio and Cuomo. Since we are comprised of states and often rely on the federal government, being Americans we can only pray that we can beat this “tiger”. Because we don’t have the structure or discipline of China, Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, etc. I left to upstate NY in early March, thereafter, my city of New York started shutting down. I watched what happen with Italy. I was committing to a new way of life. Being asked to stay home, take physical distance from others, no kissing, hugging, hand shaking, purchase only essentials when needed, choice of cooking, no appointments , no rushing, no schedule. I am basically in heaven. Easier for me right now because I am in a forest and not a concrete jungle. Love being a solo human, while life has become my hammock. I love every bed in every home I live in. As well as every house. I am that soul that appreciate being in bed all day. No shame. It becomes my office of sorts. My struggle might be, my personal “should do list ” which are not being met during this down time, not as yet. But seems like there is time. I am embracing every second, of not having to do nothing but cook, and meditate, so that we can beat this beast. In sha Allah.
Black History Month…and right before it started, a week ago I left Egypt with a sail down the Nile for 5 days and more. I left the photo taking to @duroolowu as he has the patience and a great eye. As I packed to leave the city of Aswan, I learned of the death of Kobe Bryant. Tragic for us all. I often don’t post as I should because it takes time for me to arrange my thoughts. My purpose feels greater than the practice. So I procrastinate, until I surrender to a sense of responsibility, “to get back on the horse” so to speak, whether I write here, or my required duty to express toward an autobiography, it takes a passionate commitment and I struggle. But I wanted to recognize Cynthia Erivo @cynthiaerivo “my foreign daughter” before the Academy Awards this Sunday, who I am so proud of. In respect to BHM, I salute her but mostly her talent. To play a heroine of mine and for others to criticize her as a choice because she was a foreign black actress and cause grief to her and concern to the production. It sadden me. PLEASE let the actors act. Well thank goodness “the boat rolled on” and like Harriet Tubman, she prevailed. This current opinionated world we now live in is unsettling. I encouraged her to look straight ahead, to ignore the naysayers. The beginning of this month, she is who I want to first recognize and never forget Harriet Tubman. Talent will be protected by the greater all. Cynthia is dedicated and in this climate to be recognized for her portrayal as an actor and composing the song that represents the film, two nominations is special in its self. Ignore the naysayers. It’s not about winning, although its a pleasure and does much for your career, but so does a nomination. I am simply proud.
A wonderful new book developed by the passionate author Marcellas Reynolds, “SUPREME MODELS” Abrams Publishing..sub-titled “Iconic Black Women Who Revolutionized Fashion”. A truly beautiful book that represents models of today and yesterday. The quality speaks volume to the level of appreciation of the models featured by the author. In 1998 deceased author Barbara Summers published her book “Skin Deep” Amisted Press. It was the first to share the stories of black models that satisfied the thirst of many. It became the only book of reference that had documented.the story of black models. I loved what Barbara Smith had accomplished it was a vast on taking. It was story telling. Today we have that same type of dedication to document black models in SUPREME MODELS, It was time for something new. It takes “a calling” to do this kind of project and do it well. I am glad to have witnessed both of these committed souls to put this content into history . Each are different but the intent the same. SUPREME MODELS is available now..Barnes Noble and Amazon. Like I said, it’s beautiful…worth owning. Yep..I’m even featured with so many others. Repost w/|o the music @the_real_iman @marqueemarc @suprememodelsbook #skindeep #barbarasummers
Happy International Earth Day … Well this is what it looks like globally. I feel we pushed the earth and the earth pushed back harder then ever… Covid-19 Where I am today is a beautiful sunny day, it’s kind of nature to share this warm energy. I had one personal lost to Covid-19. Vera Varner who worked with and helped me for over 25 yrs. She wasn’t famous or in fashion. But during this moment in time, she is worth mentioning. Because those who leave us due to this virus, will be the same in memory as the lost of those due to 9/11. How grateful we must be to have these “soldiers”..these nurses, doctors, hospital workers, committed to duty at such sacrifice and risk. Grateful that I am committed to the leadership of New York. I want us ALL to win this battle. Not eager to rush forward to fall back. Happy I don’t want my nails or hair done or get back to a gym or club, so bad, that I throw caution to the wind. I have adapted. To know that I blessed, that I can take my time. Not anxious to be part of the error. Not eager to mingle, and old enough to be comfortable solo. Sending good energy to the scientists, if it’s a hoax, a conspiracy, or whatever, just wake me when it’s over. On this earth day, may it please care for those who are caring for us.🌺 #peterbeard RIP.
Legendary New York Times photographer and fashion historian Bill Cunningham shares his life story in his own words. ”THE TIMES OF BILL CUNNINGHAM” opens in NYC on Feb.14th. Get tickets:http//bit.ly/BillCunninghamTix I am happy to support this documentary film written/directed by Mark Bozek. Bill Cunningham and I had years of personal history. And half that time so has the director and I. Proud of the results of this project and the hard work it took to bring It to theatrical release. So if you have an intellectual fashion interest take a moment to experience this earnest truth of the man himself, Bill Cunningham. @bcunninghamfilms #billcunninghammovie
Today is the first day of Ramadan. Ramadan Kareem to all. We come here to do our best for oneself and if meant, mankind, but surely your fellowman. During this holy month it’s a time to devote to being kind, generous and enlightened. Focus also for me comes to play. Please know you need not be muslim to observe these things but it’s easier perhaps when a time of ritual exists. Nonetheless…wishing us all the common sense to realize what was said by the Lt Governor of Texas that “there is more to life than living, that you have to take a risk” to start to mingle and get back to building the economy, and forget #stayhome. Please be very suspicious of his agenda after you say “HUH???? Meanwhile…. Thought it might be fitting to share my conversation that aired this week. You might hear things you never knew before, even the way I think. Please listen to the HELGA podcast, host Helga Davis in conversation about my unconventional life. @hel.gadavis (I share timidly) Listen for free here: https://wnycstudios.org/podcasts/helga Or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
It’s that time again…. ALICE SMITH November 29th Friday Webster Hall N.Y.C 8p Get your ticket(s) I am a devoted fan, as many are and always happy to see and hear Alice perform. I don’t take the time to see many performers but anytime Alice comes east, I am excited. And not the only one, she has a great following. So come join the energy and support a lovely talent. Artistry, the arts and music always fills the soul. So let’s go get filled. See you there. @alicesmithmusic #websterhall #nyc
Happy for your response and appreciation of “The Dynamic Dozen”. (my last IG post) Now that we have experienced “sway and sway, punch then in the mouth, and walk it out” (my favorite step), great job no doubt. But we have a job to do as well… To support Housing Works with all proceeds to help end HIV/AIDS and homelessness. For tickets please see link in my Bio and full information. My fellow chairs are: Billy Porter, Iman , Mickey Boardman, Patricia Field, Cameron Silver, Phillip Picardi, Anna Sui. See you there 💃🏿 #housingworks #fashionforaction2019
HousingWorks Party and shop with me to end AIDS and homelessness! New donated merchandise from an incredible selection of brands and designers marked up to 80% off to support @housingworks #FashionforAction #F4A19. Get tickets here: http://f4a2019.splashthat.com/Chairs. My life with HousingWorks started early 90’s when Keith Cylar a co-founder of the organization learned of me and sought my help to bring awareness to the fashion industry in support of Housing Works. I had co-founded the Black Girls Coalition that supported the top models of color. So for the love and passion of Keith and Charles King (co-founder) the BGC put on several events in support. Keith was an amazing spirit. Once he involved me I became one of his confidants. He spent most days in court, battling the legal system to achieve their vision. There were more down days, more No then Yess but Keith never gave up. Some days he was so sick, he was down, but when he was up he was in court. Keith had Aids. He would stop by my office and share the challenges and the achievements. I was in joy, because I started the BGC in support of the homelessness that was raging in NYC at that time. Then I met Keith and Charles who allowed me to see even more. To know what Housing Works is today and where and how it began has always been a gift to me. Grateful to have met a warrior and watched him change the fate of others was beyond. Keith died way to soon and way too young. But he came here to conquer. To see the foundation of what was preserved and all others who has stepped in…makes it all worthwhile. It tells you… It’s not how long you lived but what you did with the time you had. If you have time come by, say hello and see how you can support. I’ll be there. #housingworks #blackgirlscoalition @blackgirlscoalition
