Arts & Culture/Event: “Grand Opening” of INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM, S.C.

Posted on June 11, 2023June 13, 2023 by GO BANG MAG

The International African American Museum (IAAM) explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, on the nation, and on the world, shining light and sharing stories of the diverse journeys, origin, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora. Located in Charleston, S.C., at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf, IAAM honors the untold stories of the African American journey.

Across 9 galleries and a memorial garden with art, objects, artifacts, and multi-media interaction, IAAM is a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of American history. As a result, the museum will stand as one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as it evolves today. The mission of IAAM is to honor the untold stories of the African American journey at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf and beyond.

Its nine distinct galleries will demonstrate how enslaved Africans and free blacks shaped economic, political, and cultural development throughout the nation and beyond, while offering an especially close look at the connection to the South Carolina Lowcountry. These include the Transatlantic Experience, the Atlantic Worlds Gallery, the South Carolina Connections Gallery, the Gullah Geechee Gallery, the American Journeys Gallery, the Carolina Gold Gallery, the
African Roots Gallery, The Theater, and the Special Exhibitions Gallery.

In addition to the galleries, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden sprawls across the museum’s grounds and reflects on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf, one of the many docks in Charleston Harbor at which an estimated 45% of enslaved Africans entered this country. Artistic installations and site objects mark the history and archeology there. This area, which will be free and open to the public, also provides a space for informal and structured gatherings where stories and traditions can once again be shared.

Working to serve and improve equity for Black and African Americans, IAAM is a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of American history and is thus one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as it evolves today.

Opening on June 27 of 2023, IAAM has been in the works since 2000 when former Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr., voiced a need for the museum in his State of the City address. In 2002, a steering committee was formed to explore the development of the museum, and in 2005, Congressman Jim Clyburn became the museum’s first chair of the Board of Directors. As of early 2022, IAAM had raised close to $100 million dollars toward building construction and the foundation of what will comprise the heart of the museum. Since 2021, Dr. Tonya M. Matthews, president and chief executive officer of IAAM, has guided the extensive efforts leading to the museum’s opening and its ongoing efforts to tell the story of the African American journey.

The African Ancestors Memorial Garden, a collection of gardens and artistic installations that sprawls across the IAAM grounds, will be free and open to the public. It will give visitors the opportunity to honor African ancestors and reflect on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf facing the harbor, where some historians estimate more than 45% of enslaved Africans entered this country. Site objects mark the history and archeology there. This area also allows for
informal and programmed gatherings where stories and traditions can once again be shared.

Technology and Educational Features for Visitors:

• Another centerpiece of the museum, the “Atlantic Worlds Gallery,” will be furnished with North America’s first public installation of the latest Crystal LED display in a 32-
foot wide, 7-foot-high configuration provided by Sony. The immersive audio/visual experience is expected to elicit a powerful emotional response from visitors, as it brings
history to life through technology.

• To help visitors explore, the South Carolina Connections Gallery includes an interactive table digital map (supported by Google) that highlights where history happened throughout the state and the Lowcountry.

• The Theater (supported by BMW) will feature a commissioned film installation, The Ummah Chroma, an award-winning film collective. It will serve as both a visitor orientation to the museum experience and a work of art to be screened and distributed internationally. The film will be a visual and an emotional encapsulation of the spirit, resilience, and power of people of African descent.

The International African American Museum (IAAM) features nine galleries housing 11 core exhibits and one changing exhibit that rotates two to three times annually. The museum also publishes a consistent series of digital exhibits on the Google Arts & Culture platform. The core exhibits include over 150 historical objects, over 30 works of art, nearly 50 films and digital interactives, and numerous analog interactives and didactic tools intended to bring history to life and to actively resist global systemic racism. Below are brief descriptions of each gallery and exhibit.

Transatlantic Experience | Transatlantic Experience Exhibit
The Transatlantic Experience provides visitors with a large-scale immersive media experience. Situated as the entry point to the east wing of IAAM, this experience features eight large video screens, which take visitors on a historical journey through hundreds of years of history, from African cultural roots to the tragedy of the Middle Passage and into local and international diaspora scenes and traditions. The four-minute film offers an introductory experience to the themes, emotions, and historical interpretations that visitors will encounter throughout their museum experience.

The Theater Gallery | Film Exhibit
The Theater Gallery, adjacent to the Transatlantic Experience, features films and videos, which provide broad historical context and further orient the visitor to the overall museum experience through a narrative storytelling format. The original film to be featured in this gallery will be produced and co-conceived by the award-winning film collective The Ummah Chroma.

Gullah Geechee Gallery | Gullah Geechee Exhibit
With a focus on the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia, the Gullah Geechee Gallery provides an introduction to Gullah Geechee history and culture. Through the exploration of themes including activism, organization, and cultural practices and preservation, this gallery examines the history of the community as well as contemporary issues facing Gullah Geechee communities. Featuring a full-size bateau (boat), a recreated praise house, and multiple media experiences, the Gullah Geechee Gallery provides insight into the dynamic cultural identity of the Gullah Geechee people and endeavors to define and demystify what it means to be Gullah Geechee.

South Carolina Connections Gallery | South Carolina Connections Exhibit
The South Carolina Connections Gallery focuses on African American and African diasporic history that is within and historically interconnected to South Carolina. Featuring key artifacts and an interactive map table powered by Google, the South Carolina Connections Gallery provides insight into known and lesser-known South Carolinians, as well as relevant places and events from early colonial settlement to the present. This gallery tells stories of resistance and achievement, from the many local, national, and international influential African Americans in South Carolina’s history. Significant artifacts in this gallery include tennis rackets belonging to Althea Gibson, the first African American tennis player to compete at the U.S. National Championships, as well as a Waterford Crystal Award, commemorating her Wimbledon singles and doubles championship wins in 1957.

African Roots Gallery | African Roots & African Routes Exhibits
The African Roots Exhibit explores the diverse empires, cultures, historic figures, knowledge systems, and technologies of West and West Central Africa — the areas of origin connected to Africans forced to the Americas. A central media program highlights the dynamic past, present, and future of these regions, and Africa more broadly, from empires and societies to colonies and modern nations. Key artifacts in this exhibit include an 18th century Islamic astrolabe, as well as masks, currency, and jewelry from different West and West Central African ethnolinguistic groups.

The African Routes: Diaspora in the Atlantic World Exhibit illuminates stories that exemplify the influence and movement of people of African descent throughout the Atlantic World over time, from the Transatlantic slave trade to the 21st century. Layered against a collage of images that illustrate the vast breadth and diversity of the African diaspora in the Atlantic World, stories are organized by themes of intellectual connections, spirituality, and cultural expressions presented through a dynamic media program.

Atlantic Worlds Gallery | Atlantic Worlds Exhibit
The Atlantic Worlds Gallery explores the nuanced historical connections throughout the Black Atlantic World. Focusing on the major themes of resistance, revolution, creolization, immigration, and the Middle Passage, this gallery explores the deep interconnectivity between Africa, the Americas, and Europe. A 30-foot, ultra-high-definition video screen on the South wall of the gallery features an original short film that examines the historical connections between Charleston, Barbados, and Sierra Leone. The floor space of the gallery is filled with both historical and contemporary objects, art, and artifacts from throughout the Black Atlantic World.

Carolina Gold Gallery | Carolina Gold & Memories of the Enslaved Exhibits
By examining the roots of the plantation system, the skills and knowledge of Africans from rice growing regions of Africa, and how enslaved Africans and their descendants created community, kinship, and cultivated resistance, the Carolina Gold Exhibit demonstrates the transformative impact of enslaved people who labored on plantations in South Carolina and helped build the lucrative rice industry. A media program describes the knowledge and labor of enslaved people on the rice plantations, illustrating how enslaved West Africans brought significant knowledge and technological contributions to rice cultivation in the region, while also describing the physical and emotional toll it took on those working in tidal rice-growing regions in South Carolina.

The Memories of the Enslaved Exhibit utilizes quotes and insight of formally enslaved people to examine the brutality of chattel slavery. The lived experiences of these men and women demonstrate the importance of memory, violence, family, and culture. Featuring original artifacts including a jug made by enslaved potter Dave “The Potter” Drake and Ashley’s Sack, this exhibit illustrates how remembrance of enslavement was passed down intergenerationally within African American families. The media program in this gallery encourages visitors to form an emotional connection with formerly enslaved people by hearing their stories, their words, and their voices.

American Journeys Gallery | American Journeys Exhibit
The American Journeys Gallery presents key moments, figures, and movements in African American history that are interconnected with South Carolina, showing how they shaped, and were shaped, by local, national, and international cultures, politics, and economies. This gallery is organized into twelve chronological sections: Carolina in the Atlantic World; the Rise of Plantation Slavery; Revolutions; Expanding the United States; Emancipation to Reconstruction; the Return of the Old Order; Color Lines; Mobility, Migrations, and Military Service; South Carolina’s Freedom Struggle; Global Human Rights; Revolts and Transformations; and Movements. Significant artifacts in the gallery include the “Come and Join Us Brothers” lithograph, published by the Supervisory Committee for Recruiting Colored Regiments, Cir. 1863; a uniform from Company E, 24th U.S. Infantry Buffalo Soldier regiment formed in 1869; one of two American flags flown over the United States Capitol on April 4, 2018, in remembrance of the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in Memphis, Tennessee; along with various items connected to the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements, both locally and nationally.

Special Exhibitions Gallery
The Special Exhibitions Gallery is a 3000 sq ft. space dedicated to temporary, rotating exhibits. This gallery features a variety of historical, artistic, and immersive exhibits, which expand on the core exhibits. These include traveling shows curated by other institutions, as well as shows originated by IAAM. The first rotating exhibit produced by IAAM will be titled Follow the North Star. Sponsored by Michelin, this exhibit will explore the literal and figurative theme of mobility throughout African American history.

Creative Journeys Exhibit
The Creative Journeys Exhibit consists of artwork, poems, films, and creative materials placed throughout IAAM. These works of art on walls, pedestals, and screens exist in conversation with the historical content of each gallery and provide alternative vantage points for understanding history and the role that creative expression plays in both shaping and reflecting its arc. Existing in sections throughout each gallery, rather than in a dedicated gallery of its own, the Creative Journeys Exhibit features works that are connected visually through color branding, as well as thematically through curatorial text primarily displayed within the American Journeys Gallery.

Digital Exhibits
IAAM utilizes the Google Arts & Culture platform to develop and publish digital exhibits which explore themes and special topics relevant to the museum’s mission. These exhibits feature film, photography, interactive media, and historical interpretation that go beyond the stories and themes explored within the core exhibits in the building. With more stories and historically significant events that could ever fit in a single building, IAAM’s Digital Exhibits platform allows the museum to significantly expand its breadth and reach. In addition to these digital exhibits, the museum’s core collection and physical exhibits will be digitized and made available online.

LEADERSHIP

Tonya M. Matthews, PhD
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Dr. Tonya M. Matthews is a thought-leader in institutionalized equity and inclusion frameworks, social entrepreneurship, and the intersectionality of formal and informal education. Her background as both poet and engineer have made her a highly sought-after visioning partner on boards and community building projects, as well as a frequent public speaker and presenter for communities across all ages and venues.

John Anderson
Vice President of Administration and Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Anderson joined the International African American Museum in 2021 as vice president and COO. In this role, he is responsible for activating the museum’s visitor experiences, building and site operations, organizational administration, and company culture. Prior to joining IAAM, Anderson served as the Michigan Science Center’s vice president of administration and chief operating officer. Prior to that, he held multiple professional positions with the City of Detroit and Detroit Zoological Society.

Dianne Firment
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Firment joined the International African American Museum in 2019 as director of finance and was promoted to CFO in 2021. In this role she is responsible for propelling the financial growth and success of the museum’s operations.

Malika N. Pryor
Chief Learning and Education Officer
Malika N. Pryor, chief learning and engagement officer for the International African American Museum, provides strategic direction for creating and enhancing dynamic programs that explore the Middle Passage, the African diaspora, and the crucial contributions that African Americans have made to our history and to our modern world. As a member of the senior executive team, Pryor works closely with the CEO to establish partnerships and programs that support and sustain the museum’s mission, including exhibitions, school programs, faith-based initiatives and programs, local and national public programs, and the Center for Family History, a one-of-a-kind
research center that focuses on African American genealogy.

For more information, please visit www.iaamuseum.org or call 843-872-5352.

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

Cover Story: RECAP OF BARACK OBAMA’S RECENT TRIP TO CHICAGO on 5/10/23

Posted on May 13, 2023May 13, 2023 by GO BANG MAG

Photo courtesy of Obama.org

Reprinted from email: http://www.Obama.org

Recap video link

Hi Pierre,

Earlier this week, I made a trip home to Chicago to hear firsthand from some of the inspiring young people and leaders who are a part of Obama Foundation programming.

From meeting in a church I first visited as a young man, to joining the MBK Alliance for a timely conversation, check out this recap video of my visit.

On Wednesday, May 10th, I was proud to help the MBK Alliance celebrate four communities that are doing extraordinary work to address the persistent opportunity gaps young boys and men of color face with real, measurable impact.

The cities of Newark, Omaha, Tulsa, and Yonkers, in partnership with organizations on the ground, are making strides to reduce violence, raise graduation rates, and increase school attendance for students of all ages.

With access to education and mentorship in environments free from violence, these young people are getting a fair shot to live up to their fullest potential. This work is urgent and these communities are setting an example for cities across the country.

I also stopped by Lilydale First Baptist Church on the South Side—where my organizing career began—to meet with Pastor Alvin Love, as well as Obama Foundation Scholars ahead of their graduation.

Pastor Love and I shared some advice with these leaders, who are graduating from the University of Chicago and Columbia University, as they prepare to put the knowledge they’ve gained to work in their own communities.

They give me hope for the future. I look forward to seeing what they achieve in the coming years, and I know you probably do, too.

Thanks for being a part of this work.

—Barack

Music/Dance/Theater/Television/Business: KALONDA KAY “A Quadruple Threat & Entrepreneur”

Posted on April 30, 2023April 30, 2023 by GO BANG MAG

All photos courtesy of Kalonda Kay

Born and raised in St. Louis, MO surrounded by successful business owners within her family and a grandmother who shared her life in the entertainment world, Kalonda followed in her footsteps and began dance and music as early as five years old. She began dancing at Judy Best Talent Center and began singing opera at the Fox Theater’s Annual “Nutcracker” production from age 6 – 15 with the Gospel Music Workshop of America.

She has used her many talents and has been blessed with opportunities in various areas of entertainment. She began teaching dance throughout the St. Louis region as early as 19 years of age. In 2010, Kalonda earned a leading role in the historical Urban Hip-Hop musical held at the historical Black Repertory Theater based in St. Louis, MO. “Real Life” was directed and produced by Joel PE. King, founder of JPEK Theatre Group as her first acting experience. She not only had a leading role but was also cast as a lead dancer and vocalist. Kalonda continued to utilize her dance experience throughout the years by performing with many national and local recording artists.

She also received a record deal as a vocal artist with Universal Records at the age of 21. She’s currently an independent lead singer showcasing with various local bands performing at various public and private events throughout the area.

Kalonda recently dabbled more into her acting career. She worked as a lead actor alongside celebrity actor Carl Anthony Payne II for the “On the Set” Summer Film Camp in Nashville, TN and casted on the BET (Black Entertainment Television) Network for an upcoming series and a lead role for “Don’t Go There” on St. Louis Public Radio.

She’s a jack of all trades. Kalonda was also the Associate Director, Lighting Director, and Choreographer for the recent play “Meeting at the Elder’s Circle” under the direction of Joel P.E. King in August 2022, at the Grandel Theatre. In September 2022, she performed two lead monologues for Sankofa Live under the direction of writer Maya Maedell Singh at the Grandel Theatre. She has performed with national and local recording artists. Kalonda recently signed a management deal with Major Moves Music Group. She is co-owner of Under Grace Home Health, Adult Day Program, U.G. Commissary LLC, and New Avenue Inc.

GO BANG! Magazine: Well, hello there Kalonda Kay. You’re a quadruple artistic threat, being a singer, actress, dancer, and performer. What is it about the entertainment industry that attracted you to it?

Kalonda Kay: I truly believe that the industry pulled me in subconsciously. I was too young to know anything about the life of entertainment, however I knew good music when I heard it. I knew how the music made me feel when listening. I realized that it was therapeutic and that because I had a gift to sing, I wanted to share with the world the sensation I received when I listened.

GO BANG! Magazine: Your first talents blossomed in singing and dance. How was your talent discovered and when did you know that you wanted to pursue the entertainment industry professionally?

Kalonda Kay: I have always been very shy, but whenever I was put on any stage, I became a different person. I lost all shyness. My mother was the one who placed me in many events and competitions as early as six years old. At that time, I only knew I enjoyed performing and drowning myself in my talent.
Many of my teachers and community groups would sign me up to sing and/or dance for programs and various events. They must have seen something in me that I had no idea would place me where I am today.

GO BANG! Magazine: Soon after, at age 19, you started acting and landed the lead role, lead dancer and vocalist in “Real Life,” an urban, Hip Hop musical. What was the highlight of that fantastic opportunity and what did you learn from it?

Kalonda Kay: I had never acted a day in my life! (Lol) That experience gave me more confidence in my talents and introduced me to the brand-new talent of acting. My highlight was the “baby momma dance.” I would perform in the very beginning of the show. I was interpreting the worst nightmare in my castmate’s dream. The dance was always everyone’s favorite. The entire musical was fast paced and intense, especially since I played so many parts (actor, singer, and dancer.) “Real Life” taught me how to juggle many things at one time, to be quick on my toes, and how to multi-task when it comes to my talents.

GO BANG! Magazine: At the age of 21, you were blessed with a record deal from Universal Records. Being your first commercial record deal had to be quite an exciting time. What did you like the most from that experience and what shocked you the most about the music industry?

Kalonda Kay: Being able to walk into a label and perform for label execs and they see my talent. What a blessing!!! I enjoyed meeting and working with Static Major. What shocked me was to hear him tell me how talented and how professional he thought I was. That meant everything!! He was an amazing talent for the world to witness. Especially ME! I also traveled and enjoyed meeting so many other talented individuals. It was definitely an experience that I’m grateful for.

GO BANG! Magazine: More recently, you’re strengthened your acting chops by working alongside famed “Martin” hit tv sitcom star actor Carl Anthony Payne. Please describe that experience and what it was like working alongside a famed actor.

Kalonda Kay: Wow, Wow, Wow!!! That experience was hilarious and so fulfilling. Before filming, I studied my lines to be sure I would be ready to work with such an icon. However, the day of filming on set with him, he basically freestyled. All my studying went out the window. He pushed me to fall right in order with his goofiness. I was honored. He said I did an awesome job, especially because he was so off script. I enjoyed every minute.

GO BANG! Magazine: You currently have a hit new single “Too Soon”, produced by 3x Grammy Nominated Producer Joe “Capo” Kent. “Too Soon” is bringing back the 90’s feel in a modern way. Please describe your hit single to our readers, “The Bangers”, who may not have heard it yet?

Kalonda Kay: “Too Soon” is a vibe. It’s a song you listen to when you’re doing your weekend cleaning, riding in the car, or pretty much anywhere. The song gives you that 90’s feel, but the video gives you a more visual vibe of the song. I love it and it feels good.

GO BANG! Magazine: What other new music or projects are you working on that our readers should be on the lookout for?

Kalonda Kay: I’m planning to release my next single in June 2023! It’s also synchrotronic to “Too Soon” as far as the vibe is concerned. My goal for my entire project is to create “timeless” music. Something anyone can listen to and enjoy. I’m looking forward to the release. I’m currently lining up shows and appearances to build connections which will lead to more opportunities.

GO BANG! Magazine: In addition to being a super-talented artist, you are also technically gifted, being an Associated Director, Lighting Director, and Choreographer of a recent play “Meeting at the Elders Circle.” Please describe that experience and how working behind the scenes differs from working in front of the camera.

Kalonda Kay: I enjoy the planning and operations of many genres of entertainment, as well as in family or business settings. I’m the “Hostess with the Mostess,” as the saying goes. I go over and beyond with anything that I do. I like to give good products, whether I’m on stage or behind the scenes. What’s important to me is what the audience will like and how it makes them feel. I’m always intentional when it comes to bringing a writer’s vision to life.

When you’re on stage, you can’t see everything. You miss the good stuff, as well as the things that need to be adjusted. When you’re looking from behind the scenes, you see it all. I’m such a perfectionist at times. It’s probably a good thing that I can’t see what’s happening when I’m on stage. (lol)

GO BANG! Magazine: You are also an entrepreneur, being the co-owner of Under Grace Home Health, Adult Day Program, U.G. Commissary LLC, and New Avenue Inc. Please tell our readers about your businesses and how to contact you if they are interested in your services.

Kalonda Kay: I have been working for myself since 2017 and it has been a blessing. I wish I had stepped out on faith many years ago. Yet, I also believe everything happens when it should.

My businesses all focus on helping the community. Each business has its’ specific area of expertise. Under Grace Home Health program helps individuals to receive assistance with daily needs in the comfort of their own homes. The Adult Day Program, on the other hand, gives a safe space for seniors or disabled adults to come and experience many different recreational activities with their peers. UG Commissary provides a commercial kitchen incubator for food truck operators, caterers, bakers, and business owners to create and expand their businesses. New Avenue Inc. is a Non-profit organization that is dedicated to the mental, spiritual, physical and financial enrichment of family by introducing or re-introducing strategies to create healthy sustainable lives and businesses.

GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, what do you want your legacy to be Kalonda Kay?

Kalonda Kay: I want the world to see the joy in my journey. How I didn’t set the bar but allowed GOD to move me as HE saw best. I want to always be remembered for my loving spirit and how I love and accept everyone for who they are. Also, how trauma, bad experiences and things that didn’t work out never poisoned my spirit. Lastly, for those who know me or see me from afar, to remember that I’m always smiling.

GO BANG! Magazine: Well Kalonda Kay, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to inform you that you have now been officially BANGED!!! GO BANG!

FOR ADDITIONAL HISTORY, PLEASE FOLLOW KALONDA KAY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

“Too Soon” – Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiXDQsZ4sJ4

“Too Soon” – Link to buy:
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/kalondakay/too-soon?fbclid=IwAR2oywbZbknH3P8L-wqOC7DbsbZfsa6lIb9F6zrEJyliyVpWbXZXpHH_-nE&mibextid=Zxz2cZ

Email: kalondakayent@gmail.com
Facebook : Kalonda_Kay
Instagram : Kalonda_Kay
YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@kalondakay
WEBSITE: www.KalondaKay.com

Publicist: Desirae L. Benson | DesiraeBBB@gmail.com

LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS BELOW!!!

Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.

COVER STORY: “CHICAGO PHOTOGRAPHER TURN MODEL” Guthrie Lamont Bonnétt NEEDS YOUR VOTE!!!

Posted on March 19, 2023 by GO BANG MAG

All photos courtesy of Peter Koutun Photography

THE WAIT IS OVER!!!

Fashion World Grammy’s

“2022 – 2023 Male Model of The Year” Candidate

VOTE: ATOC Guthrie Bonnétt

Voting starts NOW thru April 1st @ https://bit.ly/3Zw4kJz

Scroll down to:

Male Model of The Year category

VOTE:

Atoc Guthrie Bonnétt

FOR MALE MODEL OF THE YEAR 2022-23

ALL YOUR VOTES ARE APPRECIATED!
VOTE, THEN SHARE WITH YOUR SUPPORTERS!!!

Mr. Guthrie Lamont Bonnétt has such an interesting life. He is an Army veteran that travels for a living and is a personal photographer for many in the Fashion and House music industry.

Born in Chicago, Illinois’ southside neighborhood of Morgan Park, he attended Morgan Park High School. Upon graduation he joined the 82nd Airborne, United States Army. Out of the military, he had to focus on what lifespan he had left.

In 2013, while he attended college, he opened a store called “A Taste Of Chicago. This earned him the nickname (ATOC). He sold Chicago memorabilia in his store i.e., artwork, sports merchandise, candy etc., while he earned two bachelor’s degrees. He earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology and a BS in Social Work.

ATOC still wanted more and decided to attend the Art Institute of Indianapolis, where he earned a third degree. He completed the art school with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Digital Photography. He is not only talented, but also educated and his educational goal became a reality.

He started photographing events for free, then started only taking donations as his professional career started, over 15 years ago. In his first fashion event, he met Sandra Smith-Doghmi, and he began shooting for Red Silk Carpet at The Oscars, New York Fashion Week, Style Fashion Week, Midwest Fashion, Latino Fashion Week, and Amsterdam Fashion Week. ATOC’s photography and modeling career took flight. ATOC’s photography business has been a big asset in his life.

ATOC always enjoyed fashion, but he lacked the confidence to want to model. He enjoyed what he saw through the lens. He started to follow his dream to start modeling, as he began losing weight, about five years ago. He started off at 365 lbs and now he’s comfortable, weighing between 225 – 240 lbs. His lowest weight was 198.7 lbs.

Currently, he’s been turning heads modeling and doing photography during “The Oscars”, “The Soul Train Awards”, “New York Fashion Week”, “LA Fashion Week” and other runway shows. Guthrie’s loving the opportunities he’s been given to model at 52 years young and looks forward to doing more photography and modeling internationally in 2023.

Guthrie says, “I’m humbled to have worked with some amazing designers, artist, celebrities, and photographers. A couple of my personal photographers that I go to when I’m being photographed are Jerome Lynch of Jerome Lynch Photography in Gary, IN and Peter Koutun of Peter Koutun Photography in Chicago, IL.

Shout out to everyone living their dreams because I believe #DreamsAreMeantToBeLived!

GO BANG! Magazine: What is it about photography that attracted you to it?

ATOC: The one thing about photography that attracts me to it is the opportunity it gives me to actively participate in capturing moments and sharing them with others.

GO BANG! Magazine: Over the years, you’ve created quite a name for yourself. What are some of your most memorable photo gigs you’ve had thus far?

ATOC: Over the years, some of my more memorable moments as a personal photographer have been covering “The Oscars” and “Oscar” related events with Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago. There’s nothing like covering “The Red Carpet” in Hollywood for “The Oscars.”

GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your style of photography?

ATOC: The best way to describe my style of photography is me capturing moments and sharing them with others. It’s more like a personal photographer or a photojournalistic approach to each shooting opportunity. I’ve done it all, from studio work to corporate events, a personal photographer for many artists in the Chicago House music community, to sports, to weddings and divorce parties.

Back then, I had to go get a fake high school ID to get into Mendel (Catholic high school in Chicago) gymnasium House parties back in 1984. I started following “The King of House Music” Farley Jackmaster Funk, and today I’ve had the privilege of photographing his family and their events.

I’m currently shooting House parties for many DJs, Event Planners, and musical artists in the industry from beginning to end, which includes the DJ’ing, the dancing, and the mingling. I’m capable of printing images on the spot and take pride in making myself available to travel more and doing events outside of Chicago.

I take pride in the face that I’VE NEVER CHARGED A CLIENT FOR MY SERVICES, BUT HAVE ONLY TAKEN DONATIONS SINCE I BEGUN PROFESSIONALLY BACK IN 2005.

GO BANG! Magazine: How did you become interested in the fashion area of photography?

ATOC: As far back as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed taking photos of others, as well as being photographed. While in school getting my BA in Digital Photography at The Art Institute of Indianapolis and in Chicago, I started shooting events as an opportunity to start promoting my BRAND as a personal photographer.

I came to Chicago mostly to shoot, due to it not being as many opportunities in central Indiana (Lafayette, In). My first event was a Meet & Greet and Fashion Show that followed. That day, I started asking others there if they had anyone there taking photos of them for their personal use. Most said no. I then began shooting one event and cover photos for anyone in hope of getting them that night. That’s how I started shooting photography in Chicago for Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago, and that’s how I still roll to this date.

GO BANG! Magazine: Fashion photography is your forte, but you’ve always wanted to be in front of the camera, but lacked the confidence, being overweight. Please explain to our readers what happened and inspired you to lose weight.

GUTHRIE AT HIS HEAVIEST WEIGHT OF 365 LBS.

2005

ATOC: When I first started losing weight, if I didn’t lose the weight, my health would have continued to decline. I wanted to take the shortcut and have the surgery. But to even qualify to have it, you must show that you can change your lifestyle. I was asked to lose 25 – 50 lbs. I said that if I could start losing the weight on my own, I would continue losing without the surgery. I never had it and I just kept losing it, one pound at a time.

GO BANG! Magazine: At your heaviest, you were up to 365 lbs. You reached an all-time low of 198.7 lbs. Currently you’re between 225 lbs. – 240 lbs. How did you lose the weight and how has your life changed?

ATOC: I changed my portion sizes, cut out the sugars, drunk more water, and ate mostly plant based items. I never missed meals because when you miss meals your body stores fat to prevent starvation. I do moderate exercises three to five times a week. I, like everyone else, go back and forth with weight loss and gain. I just try to not stay too far away from these basics and I’ve kept the weight off.

GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve had the opportunity to live your dreams of being a model and have graced the runways all over. Currently you’re in a competition presented by WORLD GRAMMY 2022’S BEST IN THE BUSINESS. Your category is “Male Model of The Year.” Please tell our readers about the competition, how they can vote for you and when it ends.

If you haven’t yet voted, here’s how…

A. Go to Fashion World Grammys link:
https://bit.ly/3Zw4kJz

B. Scroll down to the “Male Model of The Year” category,

C. VOTE: Atoc Guthrie Bonnétt

ATOC: ALL YOUR VOTES ARE APPRECIATED!

VOTE, THEN SHARE WITH YOUR SUPPORTERS!!!

Thanks For nominating me MALE MODEL OF THE YEAR 2022-23 Meme Braboy and Dee Divine Ceo. @Michelles_House_Of_Designs

GO BANG! Magazine: What would winning this competition mean to you?

ATOC: Winning the Male Model of The Year competition would reinforce my DREAM MODEL, which is:

1. COME UP WITH A PLAN
2. COME UP WITH A TEAM
3. FIND OUT STRENGTHS/WEAKNESS
4. IMPLIMENT PLAN

“NO ONE CAN EVER DENY YOU THE RESULTS OF THE WORK THAT YOU PUT INTO SOMETHING!”

GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to someone that is overweight but wants to start the weight loss journey?

ATOC: If you come to the conclusion that you need or would like to lose weight, then you’ve already won half the battle. Now, all you must do is BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN DO THIS, ONE DAY AT A TIME. Just start, don’t stop! If you do get stagnated, just press your RESTART BUTTON, and “P.U.S.H.” (PRAY UNTIL SOMETHING HAPPENS)

GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to a budding photographer who doesn’t know exactly how to get into the business?

ATOC: If you think PHOTOGRAPHY is for you, find people that inspire you in the industry, do homework, and follow their lead. Practice capturing moments and then “WELCOME TO THE GUILD OF PHOTOGRAPHY!!!”

GO BANG! Magazine: What can our readers, THE BANGERS, expect from ATOC soon?

ATOC: The BANGERS can expect ME WALKING AND PHOTOGRAPHING THE RUNWAY INTERNATIONALLY IN 2023.

GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, what do you want your legacy to be?

ATOC: Just know that the LEGACY OF #ATOC will be helping those in need of HIS HELP, without ever charging them a dime. I’VE NEVER CHARGED ANYONE FOR MY SERVICES SINCE DAY 1. I TAKE PRIDE IN MY WORK BEING STRICTLY DONATION BASED!

GO BANG! Magazine: Well, ATOC, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to inform you that you have now been officially BANGED!!! GO BANG!