Fit for a King
Words: Michelle Wallace IG @my.michelle.w
Photography: Sergey Yusin @sergey_yusin
Wardrobe: Jaxson Maximus @jaxsonmaximus
Make-up: Julia Brig @juliabrigmia
style | June 01, 2021
The Tribe: Eat. Sleep. Create
Words: Michelle Wallace | IG @my.michelle.w
photographer: Derek Pierre | IG @oneshotmiami
Wardrobe Styling: Luiie Otero | IG @officialluiie
Glam Squad: Azmi Agency | IG @azmiagency
Hair Stylist: Chadwick Pendley | IG @chadwickpendley
Make-up Artist: Ricky Rnagel | IG @rickyrhairandmakeup
The Creative , November 30, 2022
As the world turns its eyes to Miami for Art Basel, December is the perfect time to celebrate the brilliant minds who call this vibrant city “home.” And while the signature show happens between the white booths of the Miami Beach Convention Center, a full range of talent can be seen city-wide year-round. After all, living in Miami means
being surrounded by talent — whether it’s eye-catching architecture, multi-story murals, trendy streetwear, or this very magazine you hold in your hands. And while we enjoy the undeniable beauty of these things, we often don’t realize the dedication, effort and process that goes on behind the scenes to ultimately turn dreams into a reality. This month, we’re spotlighting a few local creatives who have each in some way left their mark on Miami Vibes Magazine. Through in-person and digital collaboration, they each bring their unique perspective and expertise to help execute a vision. Meet the masters of their craft who know that creativity is always evolving — and show no signs of stopping anytime soon.
Giano Currie (photographer)
Tell us a little about who you are and what you do. My name is Giano Currie, I'm an award-winning fine art photographer defined by a strong cultural compass with over 15+ years of experience as a commercial and fine art photographer.
My story starts in Suriname which is the only Dutch-speaking country in South America and
one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world. With a background in advertising, I’ve been able to communicate and produce digital content best suited for noteworthy buzz.
I differentiate myself as a photographer by approaching it similarly to that of a sculptor. By
manipulating light and shadows I am able to sculpt or make abstract the common features that each person possesses. In a way, I present the viewer of my work with a vessel that is relatable yet technically peculiar.
The most recognizable elements of my work are featured in monochromatic colors asserted by
practical lighting effects. My subjects are mostly portrayed as neutral in gender, characteristically stylized, and simplistically arranged. These traits form a significant part of my artistic work.
Are there any other creative passions you pursue or would like to? I am the host creator of the After Hours Photoshoot© experience, a one-of-a-kind interactive experience that changes the way photography is done. This is an event-based night-life experience where I capture my guests' portraits under creative lighting circumstances and share it with them instantly. This event offers guests an opportunity to see my creative process and enjoy instant fine
art content. Learn more about After Hours Photoshoot at: www.afterhoursphotoshoot.com I’m also looking forward to starting a workshop series titled After Hours Workshop that delves deeper into the exploration of light manipulation and shadowing. This is a way to reinvest in my community and help the next generation of photographers find their way.
What is it like being a creative in Miami? Does it provide any unique opportunities or challenges? I believe that being a creative no matter where you are is a challenge. I believe that it takes patience and purpose to find a steady footing as a creative. I’ve had to work very hard and endured lots of uncertainty before getting where I am today. You have to be a little crazy and really love what you do to create and be authentic. When it comes to Miami, I believe in the city! I’ve seen it grow, especially in the creative field, and I’ve made it my goal to grow with it.
What’s it like collabing with other creatives in Miami? When it comes to collaborating I make sure to surround myself with like-minded creatives with a similar drive as myself. I am very vigilant towards people who speak before acting as that might sometimes be a red flag. The people that I have had the good fortune of working with have made a big difference in my career and drive. I believe that the people you surround yourself with are a critical part in your success and in Miami, if you look hard enough you will find them.
Any advice for people looking to break into the creative field? My experience tells me that you first need to find that one thing that you love to do and could be content with for the rest of your life. That for me was expressing myself creatively through photography. To find “your thing” you have to first eliminate what it is you don’t want to do, that takes time and might not always be so fun. But when you have found it you’ll have the energy to make things happen.
Do you see the influence of Miami in your creativity? If so, how? I’ve been in Miami for 14 years now and one thing that’s definitely become part of my identity is the diversity. You don’t get that kind of diversity no even driving one hour up north so in that aspect I think Miami has given me an edge. One other thing that I think is an asset when living in Miami is its tropical beauty; gorgeous beaches, vibrant sunsets, and sunny weather all year round. Psychologically that has great subconscious benefits for anyone who lives here including myself.
Where do you look to for inspiration? Inspiration is something you should always be ready for to take in, write-down or play on. I get
inspiration from being in a good space mentally and in environments I enjoy. Some things to get me into that space faster are running, enjoying good music, and the occasional Pizza Topping. One thing that drives me inspirationally is always looking to do things differently than the norm, it scares me when things are average.
In general, what do you look most forward to during Art Basel? As an artist, Miami Art Week is like the Super Bowl for artists; there’s great art everywhere, sometimes a little over the top, but none the less a fantastic time to be in Miami. I mostly enjoy going to some of the most creative events of the year and meeting like-minded people that travel from all over the world to be here. Art week has also been a great opportunity for me to showcase the art that I’ve been working on all year and in more recent years; host some of my best-attended After Hours Photoshoot events. Prom a career perspective Art Week is the best time to expand your network.
Can you share a memorable experience from a past Art Basel with us? My best moments of art week have been meeting the artists that I look up to and more recently, hosting my own events like After Hours Photoshoot where I push the limits of what can be done with photography.
Where can we find you during Art Basel? You’ll be able to find me and my artwork at the Miami Art Society Gallery and consider yourself
invited to my next After Hours Photoshoot: Art Week Edition. Follow me @gianocurrie on Instagram for more details or rsvp at darethedream.co/after-hours
Julie Brig (Makeup Artist)
Tell us a little about who you are and what you do. I'm a make-up artist, hair stylist, and fashion photographer. I have over 10 years of experience in the beauty industry. I always joked that if I had not become a makeup artist, I would definitely have become a photographer. And so, at some point, I thought: “Why not both?”. After all, the ability to make people beautiful has developed my creative vision. So I took the camera. Today, what started as a hobby has become another profession.
Are there any other creative passions you pursue or would like to? There are no creative people without hobbies! It sounds cliche, but I'm interested in art, the history of fashion, cinema, interior design, and psychology. I like to make various props and accessories for photoshoots with my own hands, such as earrings, unusual crowns, and hair ornaments. Lately, I've been thinking about fashion design. And I also dream of dancing.
What is it like being a creative in Miami? Does it provide any unique opportunities or challenges? For a creative person, it doesn't really matter where you are. Creativity is a state of mind. It's easy to find like-minded people in Miami, and build creative and business connections with models, designers, publishers, bloggers, influencers, and just overall interesting people. The world's most famous fashion events take place in Miami, and there is plenty of opportunity to end up in the front row.
What’s it like collaborating with other creatives in Miami? When it comes to
collaborating I make sure to surround myself with like-minded creatives with a similar drive as myself. I am very vigilant towards people who speak before acting as that might sometimes be a red flag. The people that I have had the good fortune of working with have made a big difference in my career and drive. I believe that the people you surround yourself with are a critical part in your success and in Miami, if you look hard enough you will find them.
Any advice for people looking to break into the creative field? Everything is possible! The main thing is to start! It won't be easy, but it won't be boring either!
Do you see the influence of Miami in your creativity? If so, how? The endless summer and Miami's multicultural space is undeniably an influence on creativity. The ocean, palm trees, and unique architecture set the mood for the photoshoots. Miami Swim Week dictates beach fashion, while the famous Miami Lifestyle is felt in every aspect of creativity.
Where do you look to for inspiration?
First of all, I am inspired by people and their individuality. For me, this defines creativity.
While travel and music evoke a lot of emotions. Art, paintings, and nature are a source of visual and color inspiration. And of course, my team also inspires me!
In general, what do you look most forward to during Art Basel? Art Basel for me is the brightest cultural event in Miami therefor it’s a great opportunity to make new connections and get inspired! I look forward to new creative projects and the opportunity to nonstop productively work during this period.
Can you share a memorable experience from a past Art Basel with us? Art Basel with its contemporary art evokes an endless variety of different emotions. The only way to truly grasp the experience is to experience it for yourself!
Where can we find you during Art Basel? One day I will invite you to my own exhibit, but for now, I come to support my friends at all their various galleries. When I am not at the galleries you can sure bet I am partying!
Ruthia Fuller (wardrobe stylist)
Tell us a little about who you are and what you do. I'm a Fashion, Wardrobe, and Prop Stylist. I've assisted, creative directed, and styled wardrobe, props, and products for major TV networks, celebrities, commercials, editorials, ad campaigns, and social media. I live to feed the hunger for the art of storytelling and bringing the vision to life through final looks. It's a lot less glamorous than it sounds! Most of my time is spent creating moodboards, scouring the internet for the perfect pieces, shopping, steaming, getting talent in and out of their clothes and shoes, watching set and jumping in to fix the tiniest detail. And then there are returns!
Are there any other creative passions you pursue or would like to? I'm also a spoken word poet in a group with my husband Dray Fuller. We are The Fuller Nation. Entertainment, music, and storytelling is a powerful tool that can transform society. Our mission is to use our gifts to inspire millions of people to reach their potential and impact the world around them. We empower people to love themselves, grow themselves, and impact others so they can live a fulfilled life.
What is it like being a creative in Miami? Does it provide any unique opportunities or challenges? Being a creative in Miami has its challenges and its upsides. It can be super challenging that there are so many stylists in Miami, which means a lot of competition with the opportunities that arise. My constant reminder is to be myself, there's nothing worse than being a watered down version of someone else. If my talents don't land the job, then it wasn't for me anyways. The upsides? There are
so many stylists in Miami! The challenge is also the upside. I've assisted many other stylists to pull inspiration and learn more from, because I don't know what I don't know. A successful stylist is always adding to her kit. Literal stylist kits that we take on shoots and figurative growth kits in our mind. After every shoot, I ask myself, "What could I have done better?".
What’s it like collabing with other creatives in Miami? Collabing with other creatives in Miami is always exciting because iron sharpens iron. Passion produces more passion. I get fired up to continue doing what I love as I experience others doing the same.
Any advice for people looking to break into the creative field? How bad do you want it? Persistence and tenacity are key to pursuing your passion regardless of the obstacles.
Where do you look to for inspiration? I look for inspiration while watching tv, in art, runway shoes, designer collections, and pinterest.
Eric Junior Bonhomme (Illustrator, videographer)
Where do you look to for inspiration? This depends on what I am working on. Every project has its challenges, so I tend to have multiple sources of inspiration. I usually start basic with images from Pinterest or any IMAGE source boards. This can be overwhelming - Music and film can be another way to spark something creative. Lately, I find myself inspired by the patterns created by nature along with the sounds that can create some great visuals.
Dmitry Zhitov (Photographer)
Dmitry Zhitov is an award winning documentary filmmaker, photographer, and author. He has earned multiple awards for Best Director, Best Film, and Best Cinematographer in national and international film festivals from Los Angeles and Miami to London and Madrid.
Although interested in photography since he was a child, it wasn’t until his mid-20s when Dmitry’s career as a documentarian began. Dmitry earned accolades with his first film, South Beach on Heels. The success of this film inspired Dmitry to venture into other fields within the cinematic world. Dmitry has published a multi-sensory Coffee Table Book “Faces and Voices of Cuba” with a Soundtrack which got a lot of recognition nationally and internationally. Dmitry has exhibited his work in the USA, England and Italy.
Tell us a little about who you are and what you do. I am a visual artist - photographer and filmmaker. I was born in Siberia and grew up on a farm. When I moved to Miami, I went to broadcasting school planning to be a reporter but fell in love with camera work and started making documentaries and music videos. About 10 years ago decided to broad my horizons and got into photography as well.
Are there any other creative passions you pursue or would like to? There is so much space for creativity in visual art. I am quite broad in my photography - from street and fashion to abstract and nude photography. I love creating something unique and different... Visual art has no limits... I love multi-sensory art - where people can use different senses to experience my art. About the question.... visual art is my thing and for now I am pursuing only it.
What is it like being a creative in Miami? Does it provide any unique opportunities or challenges? I love being creative in Miami... weather, people... everything is created for us to create!!! About challenges or opportunities ... we make them... not the place ... not people around us... it is us.
What’s it like collaborating with other creatives in Miami? I love creating with Miami Vibes team!!! always so much fun.
Any advice for people looking to break into the creative field? Don't be afraid to be judged and criticized. You are creating first of all for yourself and not anybody else. Have fun with your creativity and don't limit yourself.
Do you see the influence of Miami in your creativity? If so, how? Miami is a very sunny place... lots of beautiful shadows everywhere... I love playing with light and shadows in my art.
Where do you look to for inspiration? Everywhere... I love people watching... how they walk.. stand... react... and when I see something visually interesting i try to use it in my creativity.
In general, what do you look most forward to during Art Basel? Meeting artists from all over the world... enjoying their art.
Can you share a memorable experience from a past Art Basel with us? Every Art Basel is full of great memories and there are so many. Last year I went to Five Echoes by Es Devlin and Chanel... I was impressed how the artist showed the relationship between people and planet, humans and nature in her installation.
Where can we find you during Art Basel? I am currently working on some projects and will keep you updated through my Social Media. So make sure to follow me if you want to know about my upcoming exhibitions.
Tell us a little about who you are and what you do. I am a full time nerd/Epidemiologist and a full time Editor-in-Chief for Miami Vibes Magazine. I devote a majority of my day time bringing awareness to the community about public health related issues and most of my nights are engrossed in this publication in some way, shape or form.
What is it like being a creative in Miami? Does it provide any unique opportunities or challenges? Being a creative in Miami is like being in an amusement park: there’s never a dull moment. This city is always beaming with things to do and there’s always something to write about. To me, the unique opportunities come in being able to work alongside so many creatives and getting to be a part of their world.
This is Miami, so you already know the challenges: people’s lack of accountability, failing to come through, lack of consideration for other people’s time and not delivering. Trust that this is something that I can never get used to!
What’s it like collabing with other creatives in Miami? It’s unreal! The magic that is created during collaborations never ceases to amaze me. I start out by having this vision of a project and then once I bring someone else into the mix…the results are mind-blowing! For our 4 year anniversary I collaborated with Melissa Ledezma - the owner of House Twenty Two - to put on a fashion show during the event. She had the ingenious idea to partner with local artists and designers to create hand painted pieces to put together a limited edition Art Basel loungewear
Dr. Cybil Bonhomme (Epidemiologist & Founder of Miami Vibes Magazine)
Cybil is an Epidemiologist specializing in cervical cancer research. Her entire career has been focused on community building, educating and preventive outreach. Seven years ago she created her company, Cybzines and the founded Miami Vibes Magazine in 2018. She has collided her background in health and creative aspirations to build awareness and foster community relationships beyond health and wellness and developed a platform for creatives and small businesses to unite, thrive and be seen.
collection. The turnout was BEYOND amazing.
This is Miami, so you already know the challenges: people’s lack of accountability, failing to come through, lack of consideration for other people’s time and not delivering. Trust that this is something that I can never get used to!
What’s it like collabing with other creatives in Miami? It’s unreal! The magic that is created during collaborations never ceases to amaze me. I start out by having this vision of a project and then once I bring someone else into the mix…the results are mind-blowing! For our 4 year anniversary I collaborated with Melissa Ledezma - the owner of House Twenty Two - to put on a fashion show during the event. She had the ingenious idea to partner with local artists and designers to create hand painted pieces to put together a limited edition Art Basel loungewear collection. The turnout was BEYOND amazing.
Any advice for people looking to break into the creative field? Do not limit or doubt yourself. The moment you start to doubt yourself, your creative aspirations will not shine through and you will be unable to become an epitome in your craft.
Do you see the influence of Miami in your creativity? If so, how? Um, yeah of course….haha! I couldn’t get a name like Miami Vibes without its influence. Miami Vibes Magazine is this city bound, published and wrapped up into a nice little publication.