Philly RAW Artists

Frederick Calalang knows how to organize one heck of an event. Frederick is a producer with a corporate event marketing background. He has produced national experiential events and campaigns for the better part of 15 years. The work that he has done for RAW:natural born artists, an independent arts organization, for artists, by artists (www.rawartists.org), definitely showcases his experience well.


This past Thursday, I attended one of the events held at G Lounge here in Philly, and I can say first hand that it definitely lived up to its hype. Artists were posted up in their respective spaces all over G Lounge showcasing both their finished works and their God-given talent. The artwork was amazing.


The mission of the program is to provide independent artists of all creative genres, with the tools, resources and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity. RAW educates emerging artists through seminars, workshops and insight to further the knowledge of their industry. RAW connects them with one another so that they might grow together, while providing them with opportunities to give back to their own local youth communities through the arts. They encourage the creative success of the many visionaries and storytellers of our generation.


In addition to the artwork, local musicians are offered to submit to showcase and perform throughout the event. Our guys The Parachuting Apostles are included in the alumni of RAW performers. Unfortunately, I didn't get to see them for the 6/30 event, but enjoyed the performers I did see. (Pic Below from J Pre performance in May)


I was most inspired by Temple University design team Verde Styles (www.verdestyles.com). These kids know what they are doing. For Verde Styles, one Tee = one Tree. The student run company was founded by Nishid Patel in 2008 after competing in the Temple’s Business Plan Competition. Though the business plan did not win the competition, alumni and judges supported the idea to help turn it into the company it has become. I absolutely love the designs... of course I had to buy a shirt and plant a tree. It was only 20 bucks. It's wonderful to know that somewhere on this earth there is now a baby tree planted with an Indie-Monster logo on it. Well, maybe not so much the logo on it. That wouldn't be very green, but still a baby tree none the less! Get off your lazy asses and go plant a tree! Visit Verde Styles today!


The next event is scheduled for 7/7, and is also at G Lounge (www.thebestlounge.com). Mark your calendars! More info on RAW is soon to come. Photos {Credit: Ed Delahunty}

I-M