Your guide to Philly's diverse creative scene, nightlife, music, food & more
Behind The Screen With Maori: One-Stop Solstice Shopping
Like many people I am often buying gifts—for any season—at the last minute. In between making films, curating a series, and writing, there’s just no time to stop in a million stores and find the perfect gift for everyone I love. The winter holidays are no exception. I’ve worked out of an office in Midtown Village for the past fours years, and I’ve gone to one place to buy gifts for friends, colleagues, and associates: Verde.
Verde is owned by Chef Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran, the pioneering young entrepreneurs whose three restaurants (Lolita, Barbuzzo, Jamonera) and three shops (Open House, Grocery) have transformed the culture of S. 13th Street. The boutique specializes in women’s accessories and carries a carefully curated collection of clothing and items for the home. The store also doubles as the retail home for Turney’s artisanal chocolates.
The staff is super helpful, the décor is inspiring, and I always find something to give and to get for myself!
Here are my Top 10 Picks for Winter Holiday Gift Giving
Laiya's World: My Top 10 Philly/A-Philly-Ated Albums Of The Year
So, it's almost the end of the year. Before you bust your brain open trying to think of the perfect gift for your loved one, why not give the gift that keeps on giving? What am I talking about, you ask? How about one or more of the 10 Best Philly/A-Philly-Ated Albums of the Year? And my list has something for everyone!
(In no specific order)
1
Creative Ambassador Nikki Jean may not be a Philly native, but I'm sure she'll agree that her years spent in the Philadelphia music scene definitely helped mold her as a singer/songwriter. Pennies In A Jar is Nikki's debut CD, and it sets her apart from anyone else on this list with her mixture of soul, pop and folk.
2
Eric Roberson. Another "A-Philly-Ated" singer/songwriter who has been in the game for some time now. This New Jersey native's initial claim to fame as a songwriter can be heard on some of your favorite albums from 112, MusiqSoulchild, Carl Thomas, Dwele and more, but his catalog of at least 7 studio albums includes a mix of the most beautiful ballads and blends of house and soul music. If you don't believe me (or if you really do) check him out for yourself. Please!
3
Are we sure Marsha is from London? Because her soul is pure Philly! This Creative Ambassador had one of the most anticipated solo releases since Lauryn Hill, and she didn't disappoint! From her honest and blatant ballad "I Hope She Cheats On You With A Basketball Player" to her beautiful ballad that turned into a poignant video "Far Away," she somehow manages to put our love stories into the words we couldn't find. Now that's talent!
4
Isn't it time we got some love advice from a couple living the example of some good lovin'? Well, Kindred gave us a 4th chance to get to know love in that fantasy way (it's there 4th studio album), but more importantly, in that practical way. Aja and Fatin Danzler, married and parents of 6 children, continue to not only sing about love, but to be true examples that love (and hard work as Aja would say) can indeed conquer all!
5
What do I need to say about The Roots album besides, "You don't have it yet? What's wrong with you?" The Roots continue to move us with there 11th studio album. I believe that entitles them to the title of the most releases from any hip hop group (don't hold me to it, unless its right). I consider them hip hop's fine wine, they just get better with age.
6
Oh you didn't know that The Roots released two albums this year? Well that's what I'm here for! Usually when a project is "produced" by The Roots, it really means that it has been touched by the combination of band leader Questlove and keyboardist / Grammy Award winning producer / Creative Ambassador James Poyser. This is The Roots' second collaboration album with a music legend (the first Al Green). For the last decade, Ms. Betty has been using her talents for teaching. She has been the vocal coach on American Idol for quite some time now, along with some notable private sessions for voices like Joss Stone and Jennifer Lopez, but this is her time to shine!
7
Common has put his work in as an "A-Philly-ate". He has done countless records and shows with The Roots, as well as appearing with Jill Scott and Marsha Ambrosius on other projects. He is truly an artist we can depend on for a quality album, and one of our favorite reflections of the evolution of hip hop. Just when we think that we've heard our favorite Common album, he puts another in the ring.
8
Calling yourself "The Greatest Rapper Never" takes a certain type of ego/candidness that only Dice Raw can exude. Why do I say that? Well, Dice has quietly be refining his MC skills since he was scooped up by The Roots at the age of 16. Unlike most, he didn't run when his solo debut (Reclaiming The Dead, released in 2000) didn't meet sales expectations. He wrote instead! For the last few years, Dice has been at the helm of most of The Roots projects, as well as writing and conceptualizing songs for Jill Scott, John Legend, Young Jeezey and more. Is he really just that good? Listen for yourself!
9
Meek Mills. All this talk and not even a debut studio album yet! However, he has managed to catch the ear of TI and Rick Ross. Oh and did I mention his debut mix cd (narrated and mixed by Philly's own DJ Drama) has already sold 300,000 copies digitally? Meek is making the most out of what some would think is his last chance of chasing his dreams. It feels like its just the beginning.
And, Questlove's pick for Philly Album of the Year:
Drum roll please...
10
Is it just me, or is Jill Scott always in my head? Every time she puts a new album out, it feels like at least half of the songs are a reflection of my life or how I feel. Get out of my head, Jill! Wait. Actually, I take that back, because no one can sing what I feel, like Jill. And, this album doesn't disappoint. As we evolve, so does Jill. Jill gives us the true story of a real woman, and there is so much more to tell! This album is perfection. 'Nuff said!
Rakia’s Style Nation: Green Gift Giving Guide
Green is the new black! So, I pulled together a gift guide of my favorite trendy and eco-friendly gift ideas. Happy shopping!
Engage Green Penguin Umbrella
934 South Street
The Big Green Earth Store is every eco-chic fashion fan’s dream! The boutique is chock full of sustainable goodies that will make you gaga for green. This gift is for your special someone who always gets caught in the rain. It’s also available in orange and blue.
Picnic Pal Blankets
1301 Locust Street
These pal blankets are made with 100% organic cottons and have a hypo-allergenic filling. Choose from five different animals to give away this holiday season.
Eviama Simple Facial
262 S. 16th Street
Everyone deserves a spa day. At the Eviama Life Spa, spend the afternoon in a tranquil, stress free environment and sweet organic rich botanicals.
Amazulu Artisans Global Contemporary Boutique
Amazulu Artisans Global Contemporary Boutique
2816 W. Girard Ave
This holiday pop-up shop nestled away in University City, features a brand new jewelry line that has really caught my eye! Soul Crafted is designed by Hasan Malik, local artist and photographer extraordinaire who uses his keen eye on detail to create unique jewelry pieces using the most exotic stones. Grab your original piece of jewelry before this pop-up shop closes at the end of 2011!
The Cedar Chest
21 S. Jackson Street
Whenever I walk into The Cedar Chest, I always know that I will be walking out with at least two bags of clothing! The Cedar Chest features an array of apparel featuring blouses, dresses, and skirts. Winter accessories, watches, and jewelry are also on display for you to try on. An extra 10% off will be given to customers who mention this Philly 360° post.
Astro Vintage
702 S. 5th Street
Passyunk Ave is home to many little hidden treasures. One of the newest vintage boutiques in the South Street Headhouse District is Astro Vintage. Step into the store and you’ll feel like you’ve stepping into the 1950’s. Check out the “Winking” shot classes, perfect for a friend who loves to be the host of your next holiday party. Take your holiday goodies to the next potluck in style with these one-size-fits-all gifts.
EA Effect
1050 North Hancock St, Suite 58
The varieties of shops at The Piazza and at Liberties Walk are always a great way to spend an afternoon. EA Effect is a local boutique tucked away in the Piazza and you can find stocking stuffers for your loved ones. EA Effect has candles made from 100 soy wax from local vendor Melostudios and homemade soaps by Phillysoaps. Boutique owner, Ella Kolanowska line, Pearl Crown is a sure green pleaser with all materials being upcycled.
James' Arts & Culture Revival: Shop Local For The Holiday!
Philly is a town full of creative types and go-getters. So, it's no wonder that there are so many awesome locally-owned shops all over town. I've pulled together a quick list of three of my absolute favorite places to shop, each one unique to our city and owned by some very hip, creative and savvy Philadelphians.
So, while you're finishing up your last minute holiday shopping and searching for the perfect gifts for your family and loved ones, make sure you spread the wealth where it truly counts, and support local businesses.
You're sure to fall in love with these three shops and their oh-so-fab owners - I know I have! Ok, so here we go.
Findings
246 Race Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-0988
Although Findings has been part of the fabric of Old City for years, I've only recently stumbled upon this funky ethnic and antique wares shop while strolling around town during First Friday. The store's owner, Melissa Fisher, took her childhood passion of collecting antiques and other oddities and transformed it into this thriving business in the heart of Old City.
From the floor to the ceiling, Findings is full of one-of-a-kind ethnic home wares, art, statues, jewelry and antiques from around the world. The best part - Mel has a story for each of them!
Insider tip: Findings is having an awesome sale on all ethnic art, statues and masks.
Vivant Art Collection
60 N. Market Street (2nd & Market Streets)
Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.vivantartcollection.com
During the last four years, Philly 360° Creative Ambassador Florcy Morisset has transformed the landscape of Old City's gallery row with her successful gallery, Vivant Art Collection. This booming art space has quickly become a cultural epicenter for Philly's African American and creative communities.
I'm always stopping through Florcy's gallery to check out Vivant's latest exhibition, and to find art to add to my ever-growing personal collection. Right now, Vivant is showing a fantastic show called The Illustrated Sounds of Philadelphia, featuring the work of local artist Andre Jones. Through his work, Jones has created amazing representations of many of Philly's legends of music including Jill Scott, Teddy Pendergrass, Boys II Men and many more!
Insider tip: Click here to learn more about Vivant's Holiday Art Sale on the Main Line. It's sure to be a great event and the perfect place to pick up those last minute holiday gifts.
Wear House Boutique, Inc.
401 S. 16th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
www.wearhouseboutique.com
All you funky-fresh-dressed-to-impress ladies need to know about Wear House Boutique in Rittenhouse. Wear House is a vintage and custom clothing shop that specializes in clothing for women of all sizes - especially those full-sized curvy Philly-fashionistas.
Store owners Monique & Corinn have created a fantastic space that encourages women to love their bodies completely. The Wear House mantra is, “Love your body beyond measure.” A variety of events are held at the store to empower women as they embark upon their journey of self-discovery and (in the words of Monique & Corinn) most importantly - shopping!
Insider tip: Yours truly, James Claiborne, has an exhibit of my personal artwork showing at Wear House Boutique through the end of the month. Stop by and check it out!
Visually Fly With Flygirrl: Three Favorite Gifts For The Holidays
Looking for some gift ideas? I pulled together my three favorite holiday gift ideas all made by local artists and designers. Happy shopping!
LeTau Designs
From the hooded unisex scarves to the feminine drawstring scarves made of only the finest wools, cashmeres, silks, cottons and linens—LeTau has a little something for everyone if you’re looking for the perfect gift ideas. Whether you wear LeTau pieces to spruce up a T-shirt and jeans look or for when you go out on the town, you can’t go wrong with any of LeTau’s signature looks. And, Philly 360° shout out to owner and Philadelphia designer Maren Reese. She is as fabulous as her designs!
Insider Tips: Make sure to check out the bags—amazing fabrics, handles and designs. Find out where to get LeTau looks at letaudesigns.com.
Alvanez Designs
Not only do I want to buy Alvanez Designs jewelry for every lady in my life, but for myself too! The collection features earrings and necklaces adorned with album cover art, African textiles and more. The earrings come in many sizes—from small shapes to oversized pieces. Philly designer Monica Ferreira makes all of her pieces by hand and puts lots of love into each and every one. Her line has become on of my favorites, and I love to support creative moms trying to find their voice while raising a family!
Insider Tip: Have a specific album cover that you want made into earrings? Let her know, she can whip them up in no time!
Bathtub Jungle
Etsy is one of my favorite places to find great art. If you do a search for Philadelphia, you can find so many talented Philadelphia artists and designers and all of their work for purchase. On one of my searches, I came across local jewelry designer Maggie Huth—better known as Bathtub Jungle. Her sterling silver charms are delicate, simple and a great gift for someone you know!
Insider Tips: My favorites are the Philly skyline and LOVE pieces. Got an idea of something you’d want? Don’t be afraid to ask. I love reaching out to artists and designers to see if they do custom orders.
Rakia’s Style Nation: Holiday Dresses That Steal The Show
'Tis the season for festive dresses! We all know that finding the perfect holiday dress can be a daunting task – but don’t sweat it. We’ve got you covered for all occasions this holiday season. From flirty formal, to family fun, to sexy stand out for New Year's Eve, these boutique finds are a sure fit to keep you signed, sealed and delivered this holiday season.
Glitter, sequins, and metallics are back, and it’s no question why. Adding a bit of sparkle to any outfit can easily transition you into festive fun. Not into buying a new dress? Accessorize one you already own with bold colors, sparkles, glitzy jewels and a red lip as the finishing touch – and voila, you’ve got yourself a head-turning look.
Check out some of my favorite holiday looks and where to get them!
All That Glitters Is Gold
A gold dress like this one is eye catching and formal enough for any holiday occasion. It’s the perfect dress for this time of year because you can dress it up or down. Pair it with decorated stockings, ankle boots and a colorful clutch, and you’re good to go.
Fab Family Fun
Look cozy and fabulous during family get togethers this season by pairing a chiffon dress with a warm oversized cardigan, knee high socks and glitzy flats. This outfit is subtle, cozy and ultra feminine. Dress: Smak Parlour
Holiday Nostalgia
This simple, but elegant festive red dress is perfect for head turning! Build your simple look with gold jewelry to really make the outfit pop.
Sexy Show Stopper
Steal the show in this statement making LBD, pair it with bold pumps and simple yet elegant jewelry for that special New Year’s Eve get together you’ve been waiting all year for.
Where To Get These Looks
219 Market Street
Insider Tip: This is one of Marsha Ambrosius' fave boutiques.
Arcadia Boutique - Northern Liberties
819 N. 2nd Street
Arcadia Boutique - Rittenhouse Square
265 S. 20th Street
249 Main Street
James' Arts & Culture Revival: Celebrate The Holidays With Carols In Color
This week, I caught up with a familiar face from the Philadelphia dance community, Shawn-Lamere Williams, the Artistic Director of Eleone Dance Company. These days, Shawn and the amazing dancers of Eleone are hard at work preparing for what has become a pillar of the Philly holiday season - Carols In Color.
For twenty years, Eleone Dance Company has brought Philly together to celebrate the joy and wonder of the holiday with this original, soul-stirring, music-filled dance masterpiece. From the joyous hymns and anthems, to the electrifying dancers and vibrant costumes, Carols In Color celebrates Christmas in a way only Philly can.
So, grab your family, friends and loved-ones and come out to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this fantastic Philadelphia holiday tradition! You can get your tickets here.
Carols In Color
December 17 & 18
3 p.m. & 7 p.m. shows
The Kurtz Center of The Performing Arts
3000 West School House Lane
Watch this video for a look at this exciting production, and be sure to check out our exclusive interview with Shawn-Lamere Wililams below!
Exclusive Philly 360° Insider Interview with Shawn-Lamere Williams:
James: So, are you a Philly native? Tell us a few of your favorite things to do around town.
Shawn-Lamere: Yes I am. I was born and raised in South Philly. One of my favorite things to do in Philly is going to support other dance companies, like Philadanco, Koresh and Rennie Harris Puremovement. Also, I truly love spending an evening out enjoying the talented students of Freedom Theatre or CAPA, and then going to my favorite restaurant - Ms. Tootsie's.
I love shopping and Walnut Street has some fabulous stores, so you can always find me in H&M or Zara!
James: So how long have you been dancing? How did you decide to pursue this as your career/profession?
Shawn-Lamere: I've been dancing since the age of nine! (do I have to tell my age? lol) My elementary school had a fabulous arts program as part of their curriculum in the late 70's. (I think I just told my age. lol.) I couldn't sing, so I never wanted to go to music. Art was fun, but then I got paint on one of my favorite outfits and I was done with that! I love the drama classes, because I've always been very dramatic. lol
But, when they tossed me into the dance classes, I told Leroy from the movie Fame there was a new Divo in town. Just kidding! Actually, Leroy from Fame was one of my greatest inspirations. I was hooked after seeing that movies in the 80's.
James: Tell us about how Eleone Dance Company got its start and how you got involved?
Shawn-Lamere: Well, it's a show about the birth of Jesus Christ and many people who believe that Jesus is the reason for the season come and celebrate with us. It's a show about having faith and standing tall even when there's a struggle. I remember when my audience was 300 people, but now it's over 3,000.
Also, I've always had the best support from the cast of Carols In Color. The show used to be 40 cast members, but now it's a cast of 70! And, even though the show is about the story of Christ's birth, we have all kinds of people come see the show. They tell us that it really puts them in the holiday spirit. I'm proud to say Carols In Color has become a Philadelphia tradition, and it's because of the fans of the show. A lot of them have been there since 1992.
James: Has the concept of Carols in Color evolved in any way during the 20 year long run?
Shawn-Lamere: Oh yes, I'm constantly tweaking and enhancing. This year will be the first time we perform the show away from Freedom Theatre, which has been our home for about the last 7 years. We will be performing at the Kurtz Center for the Performing Arts at The William Penn Charter School. This year we added some new arrangements and choreography. But, I must say Leon did an amazing job with this show. He conceived it, choreographed it, arranged and played on all of the music. He will always be a huge part of Philadelphia's dance and artistic legacy.
James: Along with having the tremendous talent of Eleone dancers, this is an incredibly musical show as well. Who are some of the vocalist that will be featured in this year's show?
Shawn-Lamere: Well I'll tell you this, we have a musical director nameed Patrick Crawford, and he is amazingly talented. This show has had some very talented singers in the past and present, including vocalists like Carol Riddick, Veronica Underwood, Jeremy Holder, Renee Robinson, and groups like Imani and 2Fold. A few of them are still with the show this year!
James: Finally, what can audiences expect when coming out to see this special 20th Anniversary performance of Carols In Color?
Shawn-Lamere: They can expect dynamic vocals, soul-stirring dancing and a real Baby Jesus - who steals the show every time! Also, folks can come out for my own return to the stage. I haven't performed with the show in five years. Do I still have it? Well, folks would have to come to the performance and see!
Rakia’s Style Nation: Pimp Your Wardrobe With Peplum
This season, add a pop of peplum to your wardrobe. For folks who don’t know what a peplum is, it’s the short overskirt that you usually see on jackets and dresses. This style is flattering for all body types, and with its chic and feminine flair, peplum can do no wrong.
The flare creates an illusion of curves—while also disguising those tummy areas—for a chic, sophisticated look. Peplum dresses have been stealing the spotlight on runways and red carpets everywhere and now can be spotted on local fashionistas. It's no wonder the peplum dress is this season’s most exciting cocktail dress trend. Not in the mood to sport a dress? Keep it casual with a peplum-inspired ladylike tailored jacket and pair it with your favorite jeans or over any outfit. This look is great for the office, a night out on the town with your girls or a date night with your beau.
So, what are you waiting for? Pump up your wardrobe with peplum this season and accentuate those curves!
Peplum wears can be found at the following:
Strangefruit
http://shop.bestrangefruit.com/collections/fall-2011
Smak Parlor
219 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Kimberly Boutique
123 S 16th
St # 1
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Carmelita Couture
Visually Fly With Flygirrl: Holiday Designer Markets
I love this time of the year. It’s a great time for creative, talented people to get exposure and sell their work. There are a lot of cool artist and designer markets throughout the month, making it the perfect time to get those one of a kind gifts for the holiday.
Both indoor and outdoor markets show a range of creative works to exhibit and sell by local artists. No matter what you’re into, there’s a mix of markets on the list. I’m sure you’ll find some really cool items at all of the markets. Check out their websites for more information on some featured artists and designers. Happy shopping!
Insider Tip: Make a list of what you need to get everyone for the holiday a plan your outtings accordingly. You can definitely find something for everyone at the markets listed below.
Friday, December 2 - Sunday, December 4
Times vary
1001 N. 2nd Street
The Piazza's Winter Market is full of fun, festive things to do while shopping for that perfect items. Creative vendors and crafters adorn the main area of the Piazza with items for sale. There is also gift wrapping, pictures with Santa, Christmas movies on the megatron screen, a fashion show, tree lighting ceremony and more. The great part about shopping at The Piazza is that when you’re done and famished, there’s plenty of great places to eat and have a drink!
Insider Tips: There is Christmas Tree lighting on Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. Also, the Winter Marrket is in collaboartion with Philabundance. Please bring a canned good to donate to people in need this holiday season.
(Photo credit: Paul Loftland)
Saturday, December 3 - Sunday, December 4
11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
From The Piazza to Spring Garden Street
Each year this boutique crawl offers shoppers a unique experience. Ten independent boutiques will be offering refreshments, free gift wrapping and an opportunity to get up to 25% off your purchases. Here's how it works: Shoppers are given a Shopping Spree Card. You collect a sticker for each store at which you make a purchase. You get 10% off the first store, 15% off at the second, 20% off at the third and 25% off at all shops after collecting all three stickers. Who doesn’t love a deal? Check here for a full listing of participating boutiques.
Insider Tip: NLArts is providing child care and holiday arts for kids who are 3 years old and up both days of the event from noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Northern Liberties Community Center, 700 N. 3rd Street. $5/hour per child to cover supplies.
The Punk Rock Flea Market Holiday Edition
Sunday, December 11
11am-5pm
The Punk Rock Flea Market-Dome
461 N. 9th Street
The Punk Rock Flea Market is 300+ tables of vendors selling old records, clothes, art, music, food, bicycles, stereo equipment, instruments, automobiles, tools, posters, furniture, computers, skateboards and more. This is the place that you can find a bit of new and a bit of old.
Insider Tips: $3 entry donation. Also, since you're in the neighborhood, you might want to check out the Starlight Ballroom across the street for a record fair.
Saturday, December 17
11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Broad Street Ministry
315 S. Broad Street
Crafty Balboa Holiday features unique, high quality and affordable handmade goods. The first 50 shoppers in the doors will receive a Crafty Balboa tote filled with goodies from the vendors! which will showcase 50+ crafters selling everything from prints, bath products, housewares, and knits to unique clothing, ceramics, toys and accessories. I purchased some great gifts from here last year. I’ll definitely be shopping here again this year!
Visually Fly With Flygirrl: Catching Up With Artist Tatyana Fazlalizadeh
I caught up with fellow Philly 360° Creative Ambassador and visual artist Tatyana Fazlalizadeh. If you’re unfamiliar with Tatyana, she is an incredibly talented visual artist who transforms the canvas into realistic renditions of people covering everything—from music artists like Erykah Badu to telling stories of the struggles and issues in our country and the world.
I posed 20 questions to her for us to find out what she is currently working on and to also dig a little deeper to get to know her more. Find out her guilty pleasure, her current projects, where she shops for paint and more.
Insider tip: If you get a chance, check out her time-lapsed videos of her painting.
Q+A
Flygirrl: What are you currently working on?
Tatyana: I recently finished a painting series called Get Angry. It's about the protest movements that have happened around the world in 2011. You can check it out here. Now, I'm working on putting together an exhibition for Get Angry, while also working on a new series of portraits.
Flygirrl: What’s your favorite kind of paint?
Tatyana: I work with oil paint. The brand doesn't matter as long as the paint is rich and oily. Lately, I've been on a gold acrylic kick. Inspired by Gustav Klimt, the background for a lot of my recent paintings has been a flat gold.
Flygirrl: If you didn't paint, what other career would you like to pursue?
Tatyana: If I weren't a painter, I probably would have picked up some other artistic activity like acting or dance. I think there's a performer somewhere inside of me, and I would explore that more if I weren't a painter.
Flygirrl: Who is your favorite Philadelphia visual artist?
Tatyana: One of my favorite Philly artist is Joshua Mays. He's a really fantastic painter.
Flygirrl: What art store do you frequent most?
Tatyana:
I go to Dick Blick. It's a huge store so they usually have whatever I need.
Flygirrl: What is your last completed piece of art?
Tatyana: I just finished a portrait of Questlove. I sometimes make videos of myself creating a painting from beginning to end. Chris Conway and I just made a video of me doing this Quest piece.
Flygirrl: Who is your favorite DJs?
Tatyana: Jazzy Jeff and Rich Medina, definitely.
Flygirrl: What is the last party that you went to?
Tatyana: The last party I went to was The Bounce. It's by far my favorite party in Philly.
Flygirrl: What are the last 3 songs played on your iPod?
Tatyana: Bjork "Amphibian", Big K.R.I.T. "Made Alot", Jose James "Love Conversation".
Flygirrl: What is the last album that you bought?
Tatyana: I still buy CDs. The last album I bought was Prince's Around The World In A Day. As for new music, I've been listening to a lot of stuff lately just by streaming it online while I work.
Flygirrl: Where are you from?
Tatyana: I'm originally from Oklahoma City, OK. I'm half Iranian. My dad was from Tehran, Iran - that's where the last name comes from.
Flygirrl: What is your favorite part of town in Philly?
Tatyana: I like my neighborhood a lot. I'm in South Philly, around Passyunk.
Flygirrl: What restaurant did you last eat at?
Tatyana: I had brunch at Green Eggs Cafe around the corner from my house. They have red velvet pancakes. Red velvet pancakes!
Flygirrl: What’s your guilty pleasure?
Tatyana: Basketball Wives.
Flygirrl: What is your favorite website to visit?
Tatyana: Visit Netflix and TED a lot.
Flygirrl: What is your proudest accomplishment?
Tatyana: I've had some really cool moments. It's great to have people who's work you admire and respect feel the same way about your work. I feel like some of my favorite "accomplishments" have simply been recognition from some of my favorite musical and visual artists. A nice accomplishment in 2011 though, was a commission from the Oklahoma State Supreme Court. It was a huge painting, and I'm from Oklahoma, so it's pretty dope to have a painting that will be on display in such a distinguished space for years to come.
Flygirrl: Where can we find your work?
Tatyana: You can find my work on my site tlynnfaz.com. You can find me on Twitter and Tumblr.
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- Philly360: Video: Will Smith on the set of MIB3 http://t.co/xKfxl1h5
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- Philly360: Enjoying lunch with @mommyfactor and @KyleenTheDiva at City Tavern!
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- Philly360: Have you toured the @muralarts African-American Iconic Images Collections? http://t.co/SNzJNo0g #withartphl
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