About VAUGHN LOWERY

Vaughn Lowery is a native of Detroit and the youngest of five siblings, a graduate of Cornell University's ILR School. Core duties: global diversification strategy, production management, and ecological implementation. The grandson of the late civil rights defender and recipient of the presidential medal of freedom, Joseph Lowery. Lastly, a distinguished member of the Alpha Phi Alphi Fraternity, Incorporated (Alpha Chapter).

NEW FINANCE DEPARTMENT REPORT CONFIRMS CONTINGENCY BUDGET CUTS

PROJECTS $120M DEFICIT IN FORTHCOMING BUDGET CYCLE

COUNCILMEMBER RAMACHANDRAN HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR GREATER TRANSPARENCY AS CITY ENACTS BUDGET CUTS IN COMING WEEKS

Following yesterday’s sudden and unexpected cancellation of the City Council’s Special Finance Committee meeting to discuss the City’s budgetary situation, Councilmember Janani Ramachandran (District 4) is highlighting a report issued last Friday by the City’s Finance Department that outlines severe current and future fiscal dangers Oakland is now facing. The report, authored by City financial experts, states that the “FY 2024-25 budget is in a precarious position,” and that “the City’s fiscal health is at significant risk.” This is based on three primary factors:

The City’s implementation of the Contingency Budget passed by Council this past July due to the changed payment schedule of the anticipated Coliseum sale,
Projected overspending in the FY24-25 budget by at least $30 million, and
An accumulated deficit of nearly $80 million ending the Fiscal Year 2023-2024.

This news comes as continued calls by Councilmember Ramachandran – along with Councilmembers Treva Reid and Noel Gallo – for full transparency from City leadership on Oakland’s budgetary crisis have gone largely unheeded. Highlights from the the Finance Department’s report include the following:

Oakland ended FY23-24 with an operating shortfall of $79.84 million in the City’s General Purpose Fund (GPF). This is despite the City Administrator’s enacting of cost-saving measures earlier this year, including a hiring freeze and halt on employee travel. The deficit that ended the previous fiscal year is due to underperformance in several key tax and revenue collection areas – including a shortfall of $12.1 million in one-time revenue from the expected sale of the Raiders training facility that has yet to come to fruition.
The City is expected to exceed General Purpose Fund spending by an estimated $30 million during FY24-25, primarily based on public safety spending.
The City has begun implementation of the Contingency Budget, which was triggered on October 1 because $15 million of the Oakland Coliseum’s one-time sale proceeds was not received in September as originally promised. A revised Purchase & Sale (PSA) agreement between the City and African American Sports & Entertainment Group (AASEG) was finalized without City Council approval earlier this month, which will result in Oakland not receiving $48 million in installment payments previously scheduled to be paid in November 2024 and February 2025. Although the payments are anticipated to come at the end of May per the new deal, because these installment payments were tied to the GPF budget, $48 million in new budget cuts are now inevitable. There are several proposed cuts in the Contingency Budget (see pages 34-36) as passed by Council in July, including a drop in budgeted OPD officers to 600, temporary closures of five fire stations, deleting or freezing police academies, and halting violence prevention contracts.
A preliminary analysis of Oakland’s FY25-27 fiscal state projects a $120 million structural deficit due to unsustainable imbalances between revenues and expenditures. The Finance Department states that “comprehensive, ongoing balancing measures” focusing on the “strategic reorganization and prioritization of services” will be needed to restore Oakland’s long-term fiscal sustainability.

“The Finance Department’s report provides the clearest indication yet that the irresponsible budgetary decisions made by our City’s leadership have failed us, and that an honest and transparent approach is needed to restore stability to Oakland’s future budgets,” said Councilmember Ramachandran. “We need to end our reliance on one-time revenues such as the Coliseum and Raiders facility sales while being honest with our residents about the hard choices we will have to face in order to fix our City.”

Prior to the cancellation of yesterday’s special Finance meeting by the Committee Chair, Councilmembers Ramachandran, Reid, and Gallo had repeatedly called on the Administration to provide clarity on the cuts within the Contingency Budget that the City Administration will enact first – but to date their attempts at scheduling a public meeting to discuss this issue have been unsuccessful. On October 7, the three Councilmembers called a special meeting to discuss this contingency budget, but a quorum of Councilmembers failed to appear. And on October 15, the Special Finance and Management Committee meeting requested by the Councilmembers to discuss the contingency budget was unexpectedly cancelled a half-hour before the meeting began.

Click here to read the full Finance Department report.

Reebok Basketball Signs Elite Top 5 Prospect, Nate Ament

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A projected 2026 top 3 pick, Ament joins Reebok’s growing hoops roster alongside Angel Reese, Lexie Brown, and others, under the guidance of President of Basketball, Shaquille O’Neal.

“I’m so excited to welcome Nate into the Reebok family,” commented Shaquille O’Neal, who first joined the brand in 1992. “He’s a great kid who comes from an amazing family, and he’s got superstar potential on the court. We know he’s going to do big things, and we’ll be right there with him.

As part of the multi-year partnership, Ament will support Reebok brand activations and will help bring awareness to the brand’s performance and lifestyle product offerings, including its newly announced performance basketball shoe, the “Engine A.”

“Reebok has everything I need as a young basketball player to take my game to the next level,” commented Ament. “Shaq and A.I. – all my dreams have been lived out by these legends, so to have them as a resource is exciting. I’m just amped to see what we can do together with all the possibilities ahead.”

Player Profile: Nate Ament

Nate Ament is a versatile, 6’9”, small forward from Manassas, Virginia.
A five-star high school phenom and 2024 elite MVP, Ament is currently the #4 ranked prospect in the ESPN 100 recruiting index.
Ament is projected to be a top 3 pick in the 2026 draft and is regarded as one of the best all-around hoopers in his class.

Reebok is expected to add additional players to its growing basketball roster in the coming weeks. To stay up to date, follow @ReebokBasketball on Instagram

Reebok Basketball Signs Elite Top 5 Prospect, Nate Ament via 360 Magazine.

The Balvenie + Questlove

Today, The Balvenie and Questlove are excited to debut season four of their Webby award-winning digital series Quest for Craft.

Filmed at the iconic Electric Lady Studios in New York City and featuring some of Hollywood’s most renowned actors and musicians including America Ferrera, Common, Bill Hader, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, this latest installment of Quest for Craft explores the distinct themes each individual has faced in their pursuit of craftsmanship including uncertainty, self reflection, authenticity and persistence.

The episodes, which are available exclusively on The Balvenie’s YouTube channel, are beginning to roll out now.

Additional information about each episode can be found below:

Chapter 13 – Craft & Self with Actor, Director and Producer America Ferrera – America shares how she channels her own life experiences to shape her roles and influence her craft.
Chapter 14 – Craft & Authenticity with Rapper and Actor Lonnie “Common” Rashid Lynn – Common explores the tension between staying true and evolving, and the ways that artists can use their authenticity to expand the horizons of their craft.
Chapter 15 – Craft & Uncertainty with Actor, Comedian, Writer, Producer and Director Bill Hader – Bill discusses how his personal struggle with anxiety played out in his career and the ways in which he leveraged uncertainty to elevate his craft as a storyteller.
Chapter 16 – Craft & Persistence with Songwriter, Actor, Director and Producer Lin-Manuel Miranda – Lin-Manuel touches on how he remains committed to his ideas and the importance of holding onto the passion that fuels oneself.

The Balvenie + Questlove via 360 MAGAZINE.

Toyota Crown Limited

‘Agile and able.’—Vaughn Lowery

Podcast

Spotify

If you’re in the market for a mid luxury vehicle with curb appeal, then the 2024 Toyota Crown Limited should tick most of your boxes. Priced at around 51K, with a well equipped 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine, this is by far one of the best buys for anyone possessing a designer acumen.

On the way to our first stop, we received a message alert that someone wanted to purchase a piece of my mixed media art. It took me decades or more to discover my true artist voice and off kiltered lens. This all too reminded us how the Crown was introduced to America. It too went through vigorous testing to conjure up the seamless lines, which are reminiscent of both a BMW X6 and Porsche Panamera. The overall silhouette is groundbreaking for the #1 manufacturer in the world. Integrated quad LED headlamps alongside wraparound taillights with illustrious badging on the boot. Inside the cabin is where it feels like the atelier of a haute couture house. Clean lines with ample legroom and seating for 5. The bulbous roof, fixed-glass roof with power sunshade, not only serves the aerodynamics but it pushes the pupil. This is one beautiful sport back that mirrors a modern station wagon.

The vehicle’s technology is what truly distinguishes it from its competitors. The dash and infotainment system are in perfect harmony. A display console that’s equally impressive follows suit. USBC ports are upfront and in the back, wireless charging, extreme Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the tech pack is bundled with security alerts. Sheesh! We were experiencing a high on our way to Kelsey NaPier‘s studio in Santa Monica. Since her initial exhibition, we have been huge fans. Despite being brushless, her innovative works are refined. She attacks her medium like the engineers rendered the initial sketches of the Crown conception in Japan. The name is appropriate. After all, Napier’s pieces are suitable for large castles with a moat. Upon entering this vehicle, you will experience the same impression. We’re reinspired.

With MacPherson suspension, a powerful powertrain, and intuitive handling, Crown Limited is the perfect vehicle for an emerging businessperson. Transporting supplies from the craft store to be used as a shared vehicle in a multigenerational household. Great on gas (236 hp with 41/42 mpg city/hwy). Dial it down to eco for the elderly, alongside the view button and motion system for the TikToker who’s overly engaged at a crosswalk.

A brand that continues to defy gravity, Toyota continues to stay relevant and thrive.

TOYOTA CROWN LIMITED car review photos and story by Vaughn Lowery via 360 MAGAZINE.

TOYOTA CROWN LIMITED car review photos and story by Vaughn Lowery via 360 MAGAZINE with Kelsey NaPier's art.

Toyota Crown Limited photos and story by Vaughn Lowery via 360 MAGAZINE.

Toyota Crown Limited photos and story by Vaughn Lowery with Kelsey NaPier via 360 MAGAZINE.

Seales on Sharpe

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360 MAG

Amanda Seales‘ interview with Shannon Sharpe had moments of discomfort. The first exchange of words between the two was somewhat jarring. However, it was great to chime in on the many trials and tribulations that someone of her caliber continues to endure.

Seales, as a multihyphenate, displayed a sharpness and bravado that is uncommon among industry types. She simultaneously held her ground while giving herself permission to be vulnerable, opening up about her recent diagnosis of being on the autism spectrum. There’s a reason why she’s self-reliant and maintains a certain level of self-belief. It was invigorating. All too often, we observe interviewees prancing around questions with long-winded politically correct answers. Never challenging the status quo.

As we step into a new entertainment paradigm, there should be a feeling of unease. Seales is a person who has strong convictions and is a straight shooter. It’s a shame that intellectuals in Hollywood are still being taunted and teased because they lack human capital. Nevertheless, someone who possesses such prowess should continue to make her rounds in the new media arena. Seeing Seales and Candace Owens have a sit-down would be fantastic. Both display a high level of eloquence and poise. This change of guard chapter requires a significant amount of dialogue.

SPOTLIGHT: ANDREA GRANT

Irvine-based Andrea Grant is a Canadian-born writer and multimedia artist of mixed-blood Coast Salish Native ancestry. Her artistic reputation comes from a unique melding of mythological stories, poems, photography, film, spoken word audio, and live performances designed to create a dynamic expression that can be understood on many levels.

Throughout, her work is deeply informed by her First Nations heritage, where she often weaves together traditional Coast Salish legends and classic fairytales which are infused with multicultural and feminist influences. Due to this blended point of view, her writing is often described as being that of a “Modern Native.”

Her spoken word film, “Night Swimming,” unfolds through the lens of Grant and uses the diverse facets of water as an allegory for the emotional range of women. The narrative explores a profound connection to the potency of the ocean, rain, and storms, showcasing an acknowledgment of Mother Earth’s timely bestowal of her gifts. The essence of the story extends to the healing process, emphasizing the purifying nature of ocean swims and the cathartic satisfaction found in thunderstorms during periods of romantic upheaval. Furthermore, it delves into the exhilaration of dancing in the rain, the wisdom of intuitive listening, and the reverence for ancestral voices that guide and resonate within us.

360 Magazine + Andrea Grant

When and at what age did you realize you were an artist? Particularly a spoken word artist?

I have always felt a deep inclination towards storytelling. The desire to become a writer was innate within me, with poetry being my initial passion. This led me to pursue studies in Creative Writing and English Literature during my college years, which significantly refined my craft.

My journey into spoken word poetry began with the encouragement of one of my favorite teachers inviting me to recite at an event. Despite the nerves, I recognized the importance of embracing spoken word as a pivotal step in advancing my career as a poet.

It took a lot of practice – and voice lessons – to learn how to project my voice and maintain consistent volume. In 2003, I recorded my debut spoken word album, “Want Some Scratch?” Since then, I’ve continued to expand my repertoire, recording “Modern Native” and “Night Swimming,” which I later adapted for film.

What inspired the project NIGHT SWIMMING?

I’ve always associated water with femininity. In “Night Swimming,” I explore this connection by delving into the profound power of the ocean, rain, and storms, and how they symbolize Mother Earth’s nurturing essence, especially in times of need.

The piece also explores themes of healing, highlighting how immersing oneself in the ocean can be a purifying experience, akin to washing away troubles. It touches on the catharsis of experiencing a thunderstorm during moments of romantic turmoil. Additionally, “Night Swimming” celebrates the exhilaration of dancing in the rain, embracing intuition, and paying homage to the ancestral voices of Native peoples that continue to guide us.

How important was it for you to push out this particular project?

Very important. The transition from an oral tradition to a print-based society has unfortunately resulted in the loss of numerous First Nations stories. These narratives, rich with cultural significance and wisdom, were once passed down through generations via spoken word, but with the advent of the print world, many were left undocumented and eventually forgotten. This loss not only deprives Indigenous communities of their heritage but also diminishes the broader understanding of diverse cultural perspectives.

In response to this cultural erosion, there arises an urgent need to preserve and share these Native narratives in a contemporary and accessible format. By revitalizing these stories through various mediums, including films, digital platforms, and visual arts, we can ensure their preservation and accessibility to present and future generations.

Once you received acknowledgement for NIGHT SWIMMING, how did it make you feel? Whom did you first reach out to? And why?

While receiving acknowledgment is certainly gratifying, I believe that as a creator, one never truly reaches a point of complete satisfaction. There’s an inherent drive to continually strive for more. “Night Swimming” represents my second venture into spoken word, and I initiated its launch by submitting it to various film festivals. Once a film gains acceptance and earns accolades, it tends to attract more attention from audiences. I’ve also been fortunate to have received some press coverage, which serves to further amplify awareness of the project.

Is there anything that we should know about the process of disseminating NIGHT SWIMMING? Any tribulations?

The artist’s path is not for the faint of heart, and it’s characterized by numerous hurdles, which ultimately add to its allure. Distributing a short film presents a significant challenge since it doesn’t conform to the typical 30-minute to 1.5-hour time slot, making it less likely to be featured in traditional theater settings. While social media platforms offer a means of promotion, there’s a limit to their effectiveness due to digital fatigue among audiences. However, consistent exposure can spark interest, provided it’s done in a manner that isn’t overwhelming.

Are there any words of wisdom, you would explain to the 10yro version of yourself to better prepare for the journey you embarked?

In addition to reassuring my younger self that my thick, nerdy glasses were temporary and that contact lenses would change my life, I would also emphasize the importance of a belief I’ve always held dear: that we have the ability to shape our own reality. Since childhood, I’ve been a diligent creator of lists outlining my goals and aspirations, serving as a guiding map for my future endeavors. I firmly believe that willpower is the most potent force one can possess and that manifesting one’s destiny is a deliberate and strategic choice. Being an avid reader, I’ve often found inspiration in fairytales, which frequently convey the message that the power to achieve our desires lies within us all along.

That said, there is no universal secret to success. There’s no single path to follow, no magic formula to uncover; each person’s journey is unique.

Is there anything we haven’t touched on that you would like to speak about? Community involvement? Sequel?

I’m in the process of creating a new full-length spoken word album and finishing up an illustrated collection of reimagined Coast Salish stories.

Additionally, I’m directing my attention towards my comic book series, “Minx,” with the goal of adapting it into a video game as well as an animated or live-action series.

YOLO MA

As children, we bear witness to our mothers many sacrifices: abruptly dropping out of college, a dream job deferred, and/or putting their personal needs last. Mainly due to their willingness to be overprotective and paranoid about our safety once we step foot outside. I recall shortly after leaving the nest for college that my heart felt twisted. I’m super eager to be on my own again, yet anxious to foreshadow what’s to come next.

So, two years into higher learning, I returned without a key in hand, and viciously knocked on the door. On an about-face, I cocked my foot into trigger position only to be met by a riper version of the woman I left.

While crying, I immediately called my sister and asked what had happened. The snot danced down my cheek and she blurted, ‘She had a major stroke!’

I have compiled a list of some of my favorite discoveries that I wish my mother, Yvonne Maria Lowery, had the chance to indulge in.

NOKIA C210

Who hasn’t attended a music festival, realizing once they returned to the venue’s parking lot that their phone was missing. Or, during a white water rafting ride, the raging waters violently snatched your cell and keys overboard because you opted out of purchasing the protective case with the lanyard. Our careless behavior costs deductible and unwarranted visits to your mobile carrier’s consumer experience center. Don’t fret. This time, you brought a C210 armed with an AI-intelligent, 13MP lens, gorilla glass, and a 6’3″ colorful display. Instead of witnessing your $2500 Samsung S23 ultra 1TB get dropped off the VIP balcony, it was your $100 burner phone.

CANON INKLESS PRINTER

Finally, it’s the first time you can avoid a photo booth being bombed by your ex and/or boozed out bestie. Even on celfie number ninety-nine, you come to the realization that you only needed 1 maybe 2 of your expert raw photos and a session with the built-in Light room app. For $129 with a wad of thermo sheets, you’re now positioned to be most celebrated at your next function.

GV Home

David Kong, a 2022 Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, single-handedly revolutionized the wine industry by creating the direct-to-consumer stemware company by delivering high-quality, handblown glassware that you’d find in Michelin star restaurants but at affordable prices. How, you ask? By cutting out the middleman and working directly with the glass artisans themselves.

David was so successful that Glasvin has become the go-to stemware brand for over two dozen Michelin star and top restaurants in the nation such as: Juliet LA, Christie’s, Antico Nuovo, Shoku, and Stella West Hollywood. David also recently launched GV Home to bring his highly popular glassware directly to consumers. GV Home was the 3rd most-funded wine glass in the history of Kickstarter (2nd most stemmed glass).

Engineered Garments + Reebok

Engineered Garments and Reebok have just announced their next collaborative project, the Engineered Garments x Reebok BB4000 II, where the New York-based clothing brand has turned to Reebok’s iconic retro court shoe for a reimagining of classic university style, available April 26.

Engineered Garments x Reebok via 360 MAGAZINE.

Gucci Interlocking Fine Jewelry

Gucci Interlocking fine jewelry collection was designed as a tribute to the House’s founder, Guccio Gucci. The collection represents luxury, quality, and Italian craftsmanship.

The latest designs present a modern interpretation of the iconic Interlocking G motif, prominently placed within a circular charm adorned with exquisite gemstones. The mood of the campaign exudes a sense of timeless beauty and sophistication, where the colored gemstones create a striking contrast against the jewelry setting. Abstract elements of the Interlocking G logo act as a refined framework and highlight the new designs’ complex craftsmanship and balanced aesthetic.

The collection comprises three different sets of jewelry, each spotlighting a different gemstone: onyx, green agate or mother-of-pearl. While black onyx is elegantly contrasted with yellow gold, the green agate is set playfully against pink gold. A third version, crafted in mother-of-pearl, is combined with pink gold and peppered with diamond pavé on the central motif.

Each set features two rings, available either with a 12mm or 17mm disc charm, along with a bracelet, a choice between delicate paired studs or hoop earrings with a pendant, and a necklace featuring a 12mm ornament. Two statement necklaces with larger 27mm medallions, available in onyx and mother-of-pearl, complete the selection.

Gucci Interlocking fine jewelry collection via 360 MAGAZINE.

Tea Forte + NYBG

A partnership of tea and nature. Tea Forté and The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) have come together to create unique tea collections featuring elements of botanical prints by Pierre-Joseph Redouté, one of the most noted botanical artists in history. A percentage of each sale benefits the horticultural and educational work of NYBG. Perfect as a Mother’s Day gift idea, an elegant wedding shower tea, or a treat to oneself, each collection offers a sampling of Tea Forté’s vast array of luxury teas in a beautiful presentation.

GAG CITY TOUR BARCLAYS

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Nicki Minaj has struck palladium with her sold-out GAG CITY world tour. Music lovers show their undying support with the most extravagant pink outfits as it makes another NYC stop. What makes this stop unique? Popular demand has brought her back to Barclay’s Arena.

Nicki Minaj is a living testament to her status as one of the greatest rappers of all time. Her triple entendres, musicality, and lyrical prowess, along with her love for her son, Papa Bear, is something no AI can replicate or any award show can properly honor. You don’t have to be a Barb to recognize talent. Kueen, live long and prosper!

Thank God for someone who exhibits light in the midst of darkness. #grace

FIVE, THE PARODY MUSICAL

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‘Five, The Parody Musical, a whimsical witch hunt on off-Broadway, is a sassy political satire worth savoring.’—360®

The comedic cast is empowering yet uplifting. Their timing is unparalleled, and they possess a high level of enchanting effervescence. As the extended run comes to a close, you still have time to experience this MUST-SEE. Without spilling too much tea, they accurately depict America’s current state of DonaldTics. Even Sleepy Joe will stay awake for this jewel. Besides the big hair, the Stormy Daniels piece had us in stitches.

With special guest Jasmine Rice LaBeija, the entire cast and crew conjured the perfect cure for the theatre district’s dismal attendance analytics. Five the Musical is on par with the current state of the millennial mafia as i’ts curated to tickle their tummies.

FIVE: The Parody Musical features Orchestrations and Arrangements by Terence “T” Odonkor, Music Supervision and Arrangements by Lena Gabrielle, and Casting by Michael Cassara Casting. Scenic Design is by David Goldstein; Costume Design is by Florence D’Lee; Lighting Design is by Jamie Roderick and Marie Yokoyama; Sound Design is by Bailey Trierweiler, Kevin Heard and UptownWorks; Props Design is by Brendan McCann; and Hair, Wig and Make-Up Design is by Ian Joseph. Visceral Entertainment is the general manager and executive producer.

LISTINGS INFORMATION:

FIVE: The Parody Musical is now playing through April 21 at Theater 555 (555 W 42nd St, NYC). Performance are Monday and Thursday at 7PM; Friday at 8PM; Saturday at 5PM & 9PM; with a matinee on Sunday at 3PM. Tickets, now on sale at FiveTheMusical.com, range $49-$89. Starting March 11, VIP “Mar-a-lago Package” seats are also available for $145. The “Mar-a-lago Package” includes exclusive merchandise, a post-show photo opp, and a bag of Cheetos. Additional ticketing & processing fees apply. For groups of 8 or more, email groups@fivethemusical.com.

Five The Parody Musical off-Broadway play via 360 MAGAZINE.

Photo: Armon Hayes

BEYONCÉ’S COWBOY CARTER

SNL

Beyoncé, who has won the most Grammys ever, has set numerous records with her Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records release of her 8th studio album, Cowboy Carter [CC]. It’s the most streamed album in one day on Spotify for 2024. CC’s industry disruption is due to its 76.13 streams.

The remake of Dolly Parton’s Jolene, Protector f/ daughter Rumi Carter, Smoke Hour f/ Willie Nelson, and the duet with Miley Cyrus II Most Wanted has been highly praised by listeners.

Although the Queen has received massive pushback for not being an actual country music artist, the Bey Hive has fired back by reminding naysayers that she hails from the South. ABC News broadcasted a segment that documented her impact in the entertainment industry, highlighting her four performances at the Houston Rodeo from 2001 to 2007 (both solo and with Destiny’s Child).

Mrs. Carter’s entry into Western has brought about more attention and streams for a group of black and marginalized artists who have been ignored by the community for decades. Historically, country music is deeply rooted in African culture and black music. It is derived from bluegrass, hymns, and jug bands. Furthermore, the banjo is a musical instrument that is rooted in West African culture. A biracial musician from Greensboro, Rhiannon Giddens, who has been awarded a Grammy and Pulitzer Prize, uses a riff on the minstrel banjo for the Texas Hold’em intro. It has created a frenzy on TikTok with a line dance challenge. Moreover, Robert Randolph plays steel guitar on the emotionally charged yet epic 16 Carriages.

Manhattan Beach native Tanner Adell collaborates on Blackbiird (a remake of The Beatles), and it sounds good. She even called upon the magnificent Raye, a six-time Brit Award-winning artist, to help write Riverdance.

Overall, Beyonce is a powerful performer who continues to transcend. Her immense talent is undeniable, and regardless of whether you respect her entry into the southern secular arena, she continues to conquer.

Despite the craze surrounding Cowboy Carter, Beyonce gracefully hosted a CD signing at Tower Records in Shibuya, Japan, with her longtime bodyguard Julius, publicist Yvette Noel-Schure, and husband Jay-Z present.

Another heartfelt moment is when FAMU yodeling scholarship recipient, a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and CMA performer K. Michelle tweeted a heart-felt letter bundled with a bouquet of flowers from Beyoncé. It acknowledged the former R&B diva’s transition to pop country and how both of them have had to endure harsh criticism in the male-dominated field.

Oscar-Nominated Actor Now Artist

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Sharon Stone is a Hollywood philanthropist and one of the most prolific humans of our generation. This past week, she sat down with Pulitzer Prize winner and critic Jerry Saltz on 92nd Street in NYC. They had a candid conversation about her entertainment industry career and her early years as a talented artisan.

Throughout the conversation, Stone delves deep into her past as an adolescent in Pennsylvania. Growing up in a working-class setting, she recalls how her family struggled to make ends meet. The situation has drastically changed since she was thrust into stardom by her iconic film Basic Instinct. Fast forward, Stone speaks about her life after suffering a massive heart attack and how she lost custody of her children after a painful divorce. Moreover, she recalls meeting some of the Israeli hostages and their families in her LA home.

The audience was nearly moved by Stone’s brutal honesty, which rekindled her insatiable desire to paint. While procuring supplies at an arts and crafts store in West Hollywood, she initiated her transition from a powerful performer to a provocative painter. Some of her pieces are tangible and showcase her inner strength as well as her perseverance. Her technique is far from conventional (acrylics, spray paint, color pencils) and the canvas is large. Her works can easily cover an entire accent wall and show signs of eminence. Furthermore, she discusses her scientific research, college education, and her dedication to the international community. This past Friday, she was awarded the coveted ‘Global Citizen of the Year‘ by the United Nations.

After receiving a standing ovation, Sharon Stone reminded us of the importance of putting one’s self first, understanding the importance of self-care, coupled with self-worth.

Despite losing her father to Hamas, this Noble Peace Summit and Harvard Humanitarian Awardee has pledged to continue spreading awareness about terrorism and its negative impact on our global society.
Her latest collection can be viewed at C. Parker Gallery in Greenwich.

Sharon Stone and Jerry Saltz at 92ny via 360 MAGAZINE.

Sharon Stone at 92ny captured by celebrity photographer and journalist Vaughn Lowery of 360 MAGAZINE.

More on Sharon Stone

Sharon Stone is an internationally recognized actress, producer, humanitarian and New York Times bestselling author of her recent book The Beauty of Living Twice. Her film and television credits include Basic Instinct and Casino, for which she won a Golden Globe for Best Actress in 1996 and an Academy Award nomination for her leading role opposite Robert de Niro in Martin Scorsese’s crime drama.

Stone received two more Golden Globe Award nominations for her roles in The Mighty (1998) and The Muse (1999). Other film credits include Sliver (1993), The Specialist (1994), The Quick and the Dead (1995), Last Dance (1996), Sphere (1998), Broken Flowers (2005), Alpha Dog (2006), Bobby (2006), and Lovelace (2013) among others. Stone’s television credits include roles in limited series such as Netlix’s Ratched (2020), HBO’s Mosaic (2017), The New Pope (2019), as well as The Practice (2004), for which she won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series.

A Human Rights Campaign Humanitarian and an Einstein Spirit of Achievement Awardee, Stone currently lives in Los Angeles with her three sons.

About Jerry Saltz

Jerry Saltz is the Senior Art Critic for New York magazine, where he writes about the constantly shifting dynamics of the art world, from up-and-coming artists to billionaire collectors to the role of criticism. Hailed as a “critic of the people” by Architectural Digest, he democratizes art for a broad audience through his irreverent column and his social media channels, where has nearly one million followers. In 2018, he won the Pulitzer Prize in Criticism for “My Life as a Failed Artist,” an essay about how his disappointing career as an artist is responsible for his success as a critic.

Saltz’s viral New York cover story, “How to Be an Artist,” sold nearly 400,000 print editions of the magazine and gained over 250,000 readers online, ultimately earning a National Magazine Award. In this daring to-do list for aspiring creatives, Saltz shared answers to the questions artists ask the most: “How do I get started? How do I get better? And is this even art at all?” Jerry Saltz’s book, also entitled How to Be an Artist, expands on his prize-winning piece with dozens of brand new guidelines, exercises, prompts, and tips designed to help artists do what they do best—create. In his entertaining lectures, he dispenses valuable advice for amateurs and professionals alike, along with sharp analysis of the role of criticism in the art world today.

Saltz has been a columnist for New York magazine since 2007. Formerly, he was the senior art critic for The Village Voice for almost ten years, where he was twice nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. A frequent guest lecturer, he has spoken at the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim, the Whitney Museum, and many others, and has appeared at Harvard, Yale, Columbia, the Rhode Island School of Design, the Art Institute of Chicago, and elsewhere. He has also contributed to Art in America, Flash Art International, Frieze, and Modern Painters, among other publications. He was the sole advisor for the 1995 Whitney Biennial. In 2007, he received the Frank Jewett Mather Award for art criticism. Jerry Saltz has received honorary doctorates from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Kansas City Art Institute. He was born and raised in Chicago and now lives in New York City. His most recent book is Art Is Life.