ARTS

K.R.T. Abstract Collection

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“Past creation can inspire new ideas”. -K.R.T.

K.R.T. introduces its second collection Pre Spring 2013 titled “Abstract” which was inspired by an innovative artist of the late 19th century by the name of  Piet Mondrian.  A Dutch born artist Piet became an important contributor to the De Stijl art movement best known for his non-representational form termed Neo-Plasticism.

As a lifestyle brand  Integrating art within fashion has been the focal point of K.R.T., as well as maintaining moral integrity that identifies us all as Kings and Queens. Check out the latest collection and let us take you on a journey of style through Kings Rule Together’s vision.- K.R.T.

Available HERE

K.R.T. “Abstract” Collection Video from Kings Rule Together on Vimeo.

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The Coalition Presents “The Love Story” Documentary

The Love Story from Derrick Woodyard on Vimeo.

Five of the most influential brands (Chill Moody, Billy Abstract (Abstract Thought), BeanoVilla and Curran J of K.R.T.) are at the forefront of the new renaissance in Philadelphia. We are combining our energy and resources to put together dope events, projects and overall opportunities of Philadelphia’s finest artist.

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A King’s Event: Black Is Beautiful 5 11.23.12

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“Black is Beautiful 5″  

Black Is Beautiful V is an evolving event held on Black Friday in the city of  Philadelphia, Pa.  Black Is Beautiful first began in 2007  as an event for young college students who would be home for the fall break . Since then the event has attracted young professionals, entrepreneurs, artists and athletes nationwide.

This year we have reached out to local artists (Ivben Taqiy, Eazy Sumrz of NBHB and S.W.A.G. Sharp with Art Group) from the Tri-State area to display their art on the event’s main stage. In addition to adding an art exhibit, we reserved a private location for our supporters to enjoy a night at a secluded location. The location to this ticket only event, will be disclosed only to those who purchase a ticket. The count on tickets are limited to ensure a safe and comfortable atmosphere.

This event includes an open buffet and requires you to have semi-formal attire. Music will be provided by none other than Dj Ricochet.

We look forward to sharing this experience with you as we seek to enhance this annual tradition. – K.R.T.

For tickets follow the event organizers here ——> @Change_Makers @_Curtisbryant  and myself @Curran_J

Video Recap from Black Is Beautiful 4.

 

 


A King’s Event: The COALITION 11.2.12

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Don’t miss The COALITION 1!!!”

Five of most influential brands (Chill MoodyAbstract ThoughtBeanoVillla and K.R.T.) that are at the forefront of the new renaissance in Philadelphia are all combining our energy and resources to put together to a dope event  titled “Coalition | One” with some of the best, new and up and coming Mc’s, singers, visual artists and dancers the city has to offer in one place.

First event is Friday November 2nd. Each team (five teams) drafted 5 “players” from a pool of DJs, Live Bands, Rappers, Singers, Painters, Graffiti artist etc. Then each team gets up to 15mins that night to put on the best performance with that team. The winning team gets $1,000 and bragging rights.

My team, #TeamKRT, consist of: PateChase AllenHank MccoyIvben Taqiy and Dj J Five. The house Dj is Dj Mike Lowry.

Shout-out to the other teams #TEAMnicethings, #TeamBeano, #TeamVilla, #TeamAbstract…. but it’s no chance we aren’t winning this one and taking home that $1000

Location:

Sigma Sound Stage
212 N 12th St
Philadelphia, PA 19107

K.R.T. WILL HAVE A DISCOUNT TO THE FOLKS WHO COME EARLY. DOORS OPEN AT 9 AND SHOW START AT 10.

You can purchase tickets online here http://thecoalition1.eventbrite.com/


A King’s Event: Arts, Beats & Eats “Festival” 8.26.12

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“Arts, Beats and Eats 2 Year Anniversary” 

Still cant quite believe it has been two years since we (Shaheed Rucker and Myself, Curran J.) started Arts, Beats and Eats here in Philadelphia,Pa. Reflecting back over the years of Arts, Beats & Eats it has far exceeded our expectations much more than we could ever imagine. Arts, Beats & Eats has become a staple for our culture and it’s become a must attend event for young entrepreneurs in the tri-state area. With each installment making connections and donating to various causes and charities we have watched  many lasting partnerships &  business opportunities come about every 1st Sunday of the month.

This month’s theme is geared around celebrating our 2 year anniversary by bringing you a FREE outside festival filled with plenty of vendors, food, live music and sounds provided by Dj Gianni Lee.

This event will be held at McMicheal Park on Henry ave and Midvale from 3pm-7pm.

The only thing we ask you to bring is school supplies which will be giving out at the 1st Annual K.R.T. “Tees vs Tanks” 3on3 Basketball Tournament September 3rd located on 53rd and Parkside Ave.

 


K.R.T. x NBHB Heart Brker Pin Collab

“putting your heart into your art and breaking limitations”

Kings Rule Together second time collaborating on a product is with the Philadelphia based brand Natrl Born Heart Brkers. Natrl Born Heart Brkers is all about putting your heart into your art and breaking limitations, which is what Kings Rule Together is all about.  I decide to incorporate the popular  ”Kings INSPIRE Kings,” and “Queens INSPIRE Kings” Designs into the pins because  I believe in these motto’s wholeheartedly. In an effort to continue sharing these beliefs, Natrl Born Heart Brkers and I decided that another collaboration was the best option.

As you can see from the video, the pins are hand painted and crafted with precision and care. The finished product is a reflection of the heart of both brands, and can be chosen in 4 different styles for Kings and Queens alike. – K.R.T.

The K.R.T. X NBHB collaborative pins can be found HERE.


Custom Lifestyle Recap

“Rule of Three”

When I hear the words “custom lifestyle” I think of creating your own destiny and making your own rules. Putting things together that don’t necessarily belong but make them work for you is a great way to describe the event that took place by the good brothers over at ButchershopReab, Search and Rescue, and Co-laborative lab. You might have heard of Search and Rescue before as they created my installation at the “K.R.T. New Online Launch” event. With each of these brands being skilled in their own craft collaborating in the installation of this space in Harlem 218 E. 125th st. Ny, Ny they were able to create an event showcasing a custom lifestyle through art, furniture, and fashion.  

Search and Rescue provided unique antique props as the backdrop for showcasing custom furniture by ButchershopRehab, and original Colaborative lab paintings and wearable art.  The experience was very gallery meets Trunk Show and all items on the floor were for sale. By way of many people being in attendance, tweeting and instagraming, it made the experience much greater  by having those in tune with social networking wondering what was happening at the event as they took pictures of the unique display. All and all this was a great way of Kings Ruling Together. - K.R.T.

Check out some of pictures I captured at this event HERE.


Ricky Codio | “Evolution” Exhibition Recap Video

” young photographer with big dreams”

Recently, photographer Ricky Codio presented his journey as a photographer at his “Evolution” exhibition at the beautiful Gallery Exquisite. By showcasing both older pieces and through unveiling new works of visual art, this event presented the range of techniques and styles employed by this virtuoso photographer. In just a short period of time after launching himself as a professional photographer, Codio was regularly shooting for various clothing lines including Kings Rule Together, musical artists, and taste-makers, as well as many other clients.

The young photographer has positioned himself as the go-to photographer in the area for high-end, creative photo shoots. He has worked on campaigns that can be seen in such places as Essence.com, and XXL Magazine (to name a few).  Various people and spectators came to the gallery to marvel at his works. He also showcased a painting done by the artist Ivben Taqiy, which was head-on in the likeness of one of Codio’s photographs, as well as showcasing one of Iris Bonner’s personal paintings for him.

The event was a success and not too long after that he sold his first print piece.- K.R.T.

Video By Derrick Woodyard.


A King’s Event: Arts, Beats & Eats “Mayflower” 5.6.12

“Every first Sunday of the month”

The rains dwindling down, the temperatures starting to rise- it may just be the makings of spring (finally)! With that said come kick off your spring time with Arts Beats and Eats this Sunday (5/6) from 7-11pm at 7165 Lounge on Germantown Ave. In celebration of spring this months theme is the Mayflower which we will have a series of floral displays throughout the lounge.

As always we will be hosting a variety of vendors – including K.R.T.. This months featured spoken word artists will be coming from the group Voices In Power.  Also be sure to save the date for next month for our two year anniversary on June 3rd. See you Sunday!” – K.R.T.


ABE Best Dressed Spotlight | Dougie Newton

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“Its not a competition, just apart of the everyday lifestyle”

Arts, Beats and Eats is an event that is designed to bring out the best in its attendees from choices of music, conversation and even style. Promoting uniqueness and individuality, every first Sunday I scope the room looking for the guy that deserves the Arts, Beats and Eats Best Dressed Spotlight.

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A King’s Event | Arts, Beats and Eats ” Mind, Body & Soul” 4.1.12

ABEApril

“New Location for Arts, Beats and Eats” 

Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the well being of society, through health initiatives and community service efforts.  Shaheed RuckerGianni Lee and I have been implementing this event since May 2010. It  has grown stupendously in the Tri-state area as one of the must highly attended networking events for the young creative entrepreneurs. We have teamed up with Lauren Tilghman and Danielle Jeter to help further pursue our Arts, Beats and Eats goals into 2012.

Arts, Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow both personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy, book, clothing and food drives. Other themes have focused on educating our guests on health, political and social ills that plague our community. Our event allows individuals to enjoy live art, spoken word, and fine music while shopping from different local vendors.

This month’s theme is Mind, Body, and Soul. Where we will present some of the best Artist, Models, Photographers and Designers.

****PLEASE NOTE LOCATION CHANGE***
The event takes place at North by Northwest located at 7165 Germantown Ave, on April 1st from 7pm-11pm.


Arts, Beats & Eats “Super Bowl Edition” 2.5.11

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“Come out and enjoy the Super Bowl with the Arts, Beats and Eats family”

Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the wellbeing of society, through health initiatives and community service efforts.  Shaheed RuckerGianni Lee and I have been implementing this event since May 2010. It has grown stupendously in the Tri-state area as one of the must highly attended networking events for the young creative entrepreneurs. We have teamed up with Lauren Tilghman and Danielle Jeter to help further pursue our Arts, Beats and Eats goal into 2012.

Arts, Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow both personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy, book, clothing and food drives. Other themes have focused on educating our guests on health, political and social ills that plague our community. Our event allows individuals to enjoy live art, spoken word, and fine music while shopping from different local vendors.

This month’s theme is our “Black History Month Super Bowl Edition.”  Come celebrate unsung African American Historians that contributed to African American History through the sport of football.

Live Artist: Tone Casso of S.W.A.G. (Sharp with Art Group)

Wear a Football jersey of an African American player and get a discounted entry! Regular admission is $15.

The event takes place at the Towers at Wyncote (Primo Bacio Ristorante) 8460 Limekiln Pike from 7pm-11pm.

 


Kings Inspire Kings: Illustrator Ivan Kasaj

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“Positive feedback from the online community is really motivating for me” – Ivan Kasaj

I recently had the opportunity to be apart of a project composed of digital illustrations, created by up and coming illustrator/artist by the name of Ivan Kasaj. This was my first time working with someone who lives outside of the United States so I wanted to know a little bit more about him and his journey. The Trnava, Slovakia native Ivan Kasaj, is a freelance illustrator who likes to focus on men’s fashion, and ultimately turned his passion into a job.

 Cravatta Pelliano

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ABE Best Dressed Spotlight: Basquiat Yin

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“Its not a competition, just apart of the everyday lifestyle”

Arts, Beats and Eats is a event that is designed to bring out the best in its attendees from choices of music, conversation and even style. Promoting uniqueness and individuality, every first Sunday I scope the room looking for the guy that deserves the Arts, Beats and Eats Best Dressed Spotlight.

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Arts, Beats & Eats “Shoe Drive” 1.8.12

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“Bring new or used shoes for the less fortunate”.

A great way to kick off our monthly networking event Arts, Beats and Eats for the new year is to have a “Shoe Drive”. For those of you who don’t know we (Shaheed Rucker, Gianni Lee and myself) have been implementing this event since May 2010. It has grown stupendously in the Tri-state area as one of the must highly attended networking events for the young creative entrepreneurs. We have teamed u with Lauren Tilghman & Danielle Jeter to help us further pursue our Arts, Beats and Eats goal into 2012.

Arts, Beats & Eats contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts, Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” by way of  toy, book, clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guest on health, political and social ills that plague our community. Individuals are able to enjoy live art, spoken word ,  and fine music while shopping different local vendors.

There will be reduced admission with the donation of new or used shoes. All collected will be donated to The Convenant House. Admission with donation is 10$ with and 15$ without a donation.

The event takes place at the Towers at Wyncote (Primo Bacio Ristorante) 8460 Limekiln Pike from 7pm-11pm.

Live Artist: Taqiy Muhammad

 


ABE Best Dressed Spotlight: Tawfeeq Gaines

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“Originality, enhancement and overall swagger” – ABE Best Dressed 

Arts, Beats and Eats is a event that is designed to bring out the best in its attendees from choices of music, conversation and even style. Promoting uniqueness and individuality, every first Sunday I scope the room looking for the guy that deserves the Arts, Beats and Eats Best Dressed Spotlight. Although, my blog highlights men fashion, my partner Gianni Lee, of Babylon Cartel, features the Best Dressed women on his blog.

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Arts, Beats and Eats “Toy Drive” 12.4.11

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“An event where individuals can grow personally and professionally”

Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts, Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy, book, clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guests on health , political and social ills that plague our communities. Individuals are able to enjoy live art, spoken word,  and fine music while shopping different local vendors. – K.R.T.

This month’s theme will include the collection of toys new and used for children less fortunate.

The event takes place from 7pm-11pm at Primo Bacio Ristorante (8460 Limekiln Pike) Towers at Wyncote.

For advance tickets go to http://artsbeatseats.eventbrite.com/ or 10$ with a toy or 15$ without at the door.

Check out the video form last months Arts, Beats and Eats “Canned Good Dr” by Social Scenes


Behind The King: A King’s Journey

I recently collaborated with Director/Cinematographer/Editor Derrick Woodyard of Three Hands Media. We have worked on many projects in the past but we finally decided to do a solo project about myself. At first I was reluctant on doing the video because ironically I am camera shy, but once we started filming it became natural. I feel as though I could have elaborated more on certain topics, but since this was my first interactive video of myself, I wanted to show the directors and a King’s vision. – K.R.T.


Black Is Beautiful 4 *Photos & Recap Video*

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 Photo: The organizers of Black Is Beautiful Curtis Bryant, Shaheed Rucker, Gianni Lee and Myself Curran J.

Nationally Black Friday is known for sleeping outside of stores to get bigger and better televisions, ridiculously long lines, and guaranteed “ amazing deals.” In Philadelphia, Black Friday is known for being the day when the most sophisticated formal event in the city is held- Black is Beautiful.

This year was our fourth year hosting the event.  Dj Ricochet and Live drummer/artist Populartyin provided the evening’s musical entertainment. Catered by the venue with great tasting delicacies.   S.W.A.G. (Swag with Art Group), Acrylic paintings by Jay Taylor, Glass painting by Camille Safiya along with Photography Portraits by Nik C Photography  adorned the space  which created an atmosphere for what many have already described as an amazing event.

Shaheed RuckerCurtis Bryant, Gianni Lee  and myself would like to take this time to thank each guest for understanding our vision to allow individuals to gather and network in the name of art, entertainment, self expression and actually making it reality at this year’s Black is Beautiful event. We look forward to seeing you next year at Black is Beautiful 5 – K.R.T.

Check out the photography by Lamont D Nyce & Atiba Green from Black Is Beautiful 4 HERE.


Arts, Beats and Eats “Canned Good Dr” Photos

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“I love Arts, Beats and Eats”

Arts, Beats and Eats is an event that creates an escape from the mindset of people who believe there is no one else in the city that shares the same creativity or passion.  Every first Sunday Shaheed Rucker, Gianni Lee and myself, create an atmosphere that allows people to bring forth their talents. Also, while contributing to the well-being of society through health, initiatives, and community service efforts. Our goal within the few hours of this event is for everyone to network, and leave not only inspired but with long term memories and relationships. -K.R.T.

Live Artist: Bariq Cobbs

Spoken word Artist: Ryan Brooks

Vendors: Babycakes Couture, MilaFire Vintage, Natural Born Heartbreakers, In 2 MindMijourne Jewelry, Nur Jewelry, Oh La La and House of Ra’oof.

Special thanks to the vendors and attendees as we look forward to you next month for our Arts, Beats and Eats ”Toy Drive” December 4th

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Arts, Beats and Eats “Canned Good Drive” 11.6.11.

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Shaheed Rucker, Gianni Lee and Myself organized a event every first sunday of the month called Arts, Beats & Eats. It is a networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts, Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy, book, clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guest on health, political and social ills that plague our community. Individuals are able to enjoy live art, spoken word, and fine music while shopping different local vendors. -K.R.T.

This Month’s efforts surrounds the collection of canned goods for those many families less fortunate.

Live Artist: Bariq Cobbs

Spoken word: Voices in Power

The event takes place from 7pm-11pm at Primo Bacio Ristorante (8460 Limekiln Pike) Towers at Wyncote.

For advance tickets go to http://artsbeatseats.eventbrite.com/ or 10$ with a canned good or 15$ without at the door.

 

 


K.R.T. x Freek Ugly

Mad Decent Block Party Philly 2011

“I always wanted someone to draw me in a cartoonist like character”

Started in 2006, Freekugly Lifestyle Group began creating a familiar but different form of art. Freekugly Lifestyle Group artistically expresses themselves by creating cartoon artists that mirror the image of some of the people we know best but they add a little bit of “Freekugly” to their work of art. Founder and artist, Kareem is always working to produce a cartoon character everyday for 365 days straight. Kareem also creates, and sells distinct but innovative apparel.  Promoting the term Ugly is not so commonly used in today’s society but Freekugly Lifestyle Group shows you the beauty in the term “ugly” but in an artistic manner. – K.R.T.

Can you guess who these characters below are?

“The inspiration behind the characters, is somewhat how I see things.  I tend to find humor in all things, even some things that I shouldn’t. A lot of the characters are based off of people I know, celebrities, and personalities that I create or have come across.” – Kareem

You can find more of his work at

Website:  http://www.freekugly.bigcartel.com

Karmaloop:  http://www.karmaloop.com/browse?VendorId=6731

Twitter:  @freekugly

Tumblr:  pureugliness.tumblr.com

Available at:

Status- 252 south st
Kamouflage Concept Store- Cheltenham Square Mall
Lodge 215- 177 West Girard Avenue
Pass & Stow- 204 Mill St  Bristol, PA

 


Arts, Beats & Eats “Breast Cancer Awareness” 10.2.11

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Arts, Beats & Eats is a monthly networking mixer in the city of Philadelphia that contributes to the well-being of society through health initiatives and community service efforts. Arts, Beats & Eats is an event where individuals can grow personally and professionally. Monthly themes focus on “giving back” through toy, book, clothing and food drives. Other themes surround educating our guest on health, political and social ills that plague our community. Individuals are able to enjoy live art, spoken word and fine music while shopping different local vendors.

This months focus is “Breast Cancer Awareness”. Last year our organization assembled over 200 individuals to help raise awareness. Attendees supported the cause by wearing the traditional pink ribbon and other creative fabrics. This year we hope to generate more individuals as we include our Walk and Flag football game at Roxborough High School Football field. The walk will begin at 9:00 am. Please spread the word and come help support this movement.

ARTS BEATS & EATS will take place at Primo Bacio Ristorante  (8460 Limekiln Pk) Towers At Wyncote. 7pm-11pm

Purchase online tickets here http://artsbeatseats.eventbrite.com/


Street Kings: NYFW The Bag Edition 2

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“What you use to carry your belongings speaks volume”

I think men are starting to realize how important a bag is. The stereotype of it being considered a women’s accessory is being thrown out of the window. Having a bag to carry your everyday essentials is key, not only for keeping your pockets from bulging but to compliment your outfit with the silhouette of this functional accessory. – K.R.T.

Check out pictures of the stylish men and their bags and don’t forget to check out the last Street Kings: Bag Edition

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