Tag: Norman Page 1 of 15

Branding for Creatives: An Art & Victory Panel Discussion

On July 18, 2024

In this Art & Victory panel discussion on branding yourself, seasoned professionals Vincent Lee and Jennifer Bergen share their insights, strategies, and experiences in building a personal brand that stands out. Whether you’re a visual artist, musician, writer, or any other kind of creative, you’ll learn how to effectively communicate your unique vision, engage your audience, and navigate the business side of the creative industry.

THE PANELISTS:

Vincent Lee isn’t your typical brand guru. Sure, he’s an author with a keen eye for storytelling, but he’s also a perpetual student, constantly fascinated by the ever-evolving world of branding. His passion lies in empowering small and mighty businesses, and non-profits. He believes that with the right tools (many of them free!), anyone can craft a powerful brand story that cuts through the noise and ignites excitement. So, if you’re ready to ditch the brand blahs and unleash your inner champion, Vincent’s your guide on the journey to brand elevation.

Jennifer Bergen is a mixed-media abstract artist based in Norman, Oklahoma. Jenny’s love for abstract art was quite literally born from chaos. Like many other people, COVID changed Jenny’s life forever. While looking for a creative outlet to survive lockdown, Jenny found her spark in a kids’ paint set and the Google search bar. Over the next three years, Jenny’s art evolved into the creations you see today. Jenny believes her art speaks to the incredible value of vulnerability and authenticity in everyday interactions, and considers herself incredibly blessed to have found this craft.

Thank you to Yellow Dog Coffee in Norman for hosting us!

Being a Freelance Artist with Chaz Kemp – An Art & Victory Panel Discussion

By Dennis

On June 20, 2024

In Uncategorized

In this Art & Victory episode at the pop culture convention, Pallas interviews Soonercon’s 2023 featured artist, Chaz Kemp, about being a freelance artist.

Chaz loves SteamPunk, CyberPunk, and Fantasy. SteamPunk and CyberPunk are all about creatively defying authority and forging your own path. It’s resistance as art. Fantasy is all about visualizing your dream and then defying the odds to achieve it, no matter who you are or what you look like. This is why Chaz draws culturally diverse characters in the Art Nouveau style. Publishers and corporations say that diverse characters don’t sell. He loves proving them wrong. Defying the odds is what defines him, and forging his own path is what drives him. Art is Rebellion.

Thank you to Soonercon for hosting us!

Getting into Cosplay: An Art & Victory Panel Discussion

By Dennis

On June 13, 2024

In Uncategorized

Join us for an exciting panel discussion on “Getting Into Cosplay,” hosted by Spielventure’s Art & Victory series in partnership with Soonercon. This session is perfect for both aspiring cosplayers and seasoned enthusiasts, offering invaluable insights into the art of costume creation and character portrayal. Our expert panelists share their experiences, tips, and tricks on everything from selecting your first character to sourcing materials, mastering crafting techniques, and refining performance skills. Whether you’re just beginning your cosplay journey or aiming to elevate your skills, this discussion will provide the inspiration and knowledge you need to bring your favorite characters to life.

THE PANELISTS:

Rachel Karch (R Karch Photography)

“I’ve spent years organizing events, supporting conventions and charities, and working in marketing. With over 14 years of experience in cosplay, I’ve worn many hats in the cosplay community. Recently, I’ve discovered a deep passion for cosplay photography. I love showing cosplayers how stunning and talented they truly are. It’s incredibly rewarding when people tell me I make them look beautiful because I get to reveal the beauty that was already there, allowing them to see themselves through my lens.”

Levi Hornsby (Levicious Cosplay)

“My love for cosplay started in 2017 when I went to Fan Expo Dallas. I was blown away by the amazing costumes and the excitement people had while dressed as their favorite characters. In 2019, I decided to give it a try and wore my first store-bought cosplay, Lemillion from My Hero Academia, to a convention. I even entered the cosplay contest, and while I didn’t place, it showed me how much effort and skill goes into winning. After that, I started making my own cosplay pieces, learning from YouTube, friends, and lots of trial and error. In 2022, I entered another contest with my future wife, and we actually won first place in the novice class. I’ve learned and built so much over the years, and each experience has made me love cosplay even more.

Chelsea Hornsby (Sith Princess Cosplay)

“My journey in costuming began in the early 2000s through middle and high school theatre. During this time, I developed a love for haunted trails, mastered special effects makeup, and immersed myself in creating unique characters and their stories. In 2021, I discovered a new passion for building cosplays, bringing my favorite characters to life. Since entering the Oklahoma cosplay scene, I have won first-place awards for foam armor work and, alongside Levicious Cosplays, received the Cosplayer of the Month award. I have had the honor of guesting at New World Comic Con and Enid Comic Con, participating in charity work with Funds for Small Heroes, and teaching valuable lessons to kids at the Superhero School hosted by New World Comics. Join us to connect with fellow fans and dive into the vibrant world of cosplay! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exciting content.”

Enjoy the discussion!

Thank you to Resonator for hosting us!

Thank you to Soonercon for working with us!

An interview with the cast of The Meek

By Dennis

On March 28, 2024

In Real

I spoke with the cast of the original play, The Meek, which will be performed at Yellow Dog Coffee in Norman, Oklahoma. The Meek follows Austin’s story as he deals with the psychopath (or perhaps sociopath) of a boss of a copier sales company.

Catch the Oklahoma StoryWorks show March 28-31, 2024 at 8 pm.

Area fiftyONE at MAINSITE Contemporary Art

By Dennis

On March 12, 2024

In Real

Today’s new episode of Uncovering Oklahoma features 10 artist statements about the Area fiftyONE event to benefit the Norman Arts Council. Norman Arts’ annual party goes intergalactic with Area as MAINSITE Contemporary Art is invaded by stellar art, drinks, and bites while live music thumps from live DJs spinning all night.

It’ll be a cosmically good time, and all proceeds have an astronomical impact on Norman Arts Council’s operations and programs like 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk, exhibitions at MAINSITE, arts education scholarships, artist grants, public art, grants to local arts organizations like Sooner Theatre, Norman Music Festival and Jazz In June … and so much more!

See a piece of artwork you want? Bid on the art now at NormanArts.org.