Equinox Art Exhibition Featuring Maria Estrela and Christine Keeley with Live Music by Marilyn Castillo and Nedelka Sotelo (Sunday, March 13, 2022)

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Friday, March 11, 2022

Equinox, the Exhibit

Through an exciting collaboration between photographer/artist Christine Keeley and collage/mixed media artist Maria Estrela, the idea of Equinox: The Birth and Rebirth of a Woman, a celebration of Women’s International History Month, was born.  The exhibition will be on view at The Jewish Museum of New Jersey in Newark, New Jersey from March 6th to April 3rd.

We caught up with Maria Estrella and Christine Keeley to understand the exhibition and more importantly the connection between the artist and their work. Take a listen. 

The work focuses on the connection between women and nature; how women’s spiritual, emotional, and psychological being changes through the seasons. Equinox comes from a response to those changes. It's the yin/yang, the dark/light, black/white, sun/moon, past/future. We need to feel deeply the importance of our ancestors and what we are creating for the future generations. As we make those connections we understand that Equinox can bring moments of happiness, warmth, and love.  Even in the midst of the long, dark days, we can still find happiness.

The Artists

Christine Keeley

“Christine has a natural gift for capturing the human form and spirit.”

Christine Keeley is a studio owner and independent photographer based in NY and Summit NJ, best known for her bold and emotive imagery. Christine’s lifelong passion for the visual and performing arts is reflected in her unique photographic style, capturing the natural movement and expressions of her subjects.  Inspired by feminine strength, she uses the camera as a tool to elevate and inspire her subjects.

Christine developed her keen eye for visual storytelling at a young age, influenced by her father and maternal grandfather- both physicians and avid photography enthusiasts. Her large extended Irish-American family became her own visual time capsule of the complex moments in time of human love, innocence,  joy, sorrow, hope and contradiction.  

With a lengthy corporate career and the rise of digital art, Christine was able to envision a path to a successful business as an entrepreneur. After raising her two young children, she made the bold career move to the visual arts, where she naturally felt the transition to photography. She invested heavily in fine-tuning her craft, shooting in the studios of some of the world’s top fashion and beauty photographers. A year later, Christine’s instagram @christinek_nyc led to her first commercial shoot - and she never looked back. In 2018, Christine was invited to join a boutique art gallery in New York as Associate Art Director which led to a position on the board of Summit Public Arts. From there, Christine embarked on her own exhibition projects in NYC and NJ.  You can learn more here:

Christine Keeley Photography

www.christinekeeley.com

info@christinekeeley.com

Instagram: @christinek_nyc

Maria Estrela

I make art to heal and inspire myself and to transform the resilience and strength women carry in themselves into a visual form that encourages and empowers all women, from young to old. My collages reunite women with nature by placing them in landscapes, decorating them with found objects, and re-contextualizing their power. I want to emphasize the beauty of nature and the natural beauty of all women. By paying attention to the changing seasons, I understand more deeply the seasons in my own life and connect the world around me to the phases in a woman’s life. 

Maria Estrela was born in Cascais, Portugal and raised in a large extended family from Cape Verde, West Africa. Settling in Newark, NJ in 2002, she attended The Newark School of the Arts in 2008, where she was able to further develop, explore, and broaden her interest in digital photography. Estrela’s photographs of nature and scenes from independent travels serve as a means of self expression, escape, and self-healing. Photography is where she finds stillness, freedom, and a doorway to connect to her inner self.  Maria’s interest in collages started when she met Artist Mansa Mussa in 2018 in one of his collage workshops. Since that first experience, collages and mixed media have become part of her artistic development. You can learn more here:  IG @estrela37_ and www.mariaestrela.com 

Live Music Performance

This wonderful event will contain a performance by up and coming singers Marilyn Castillo and Nedelka Sotello. 

Singer Marilyn Castillo

"Marilyn is a rising Latin Diva with a soulful voice" - Ilana Martin, Vocal Workout

Marilyn Castillo is an independent Chicana singer-songwriter who comes from a long lineage of musicians and troubadours who passed on the passion for fine, bold and moving music that make both her singing and songwriting exotic and glamorous.

She is currently co-producing her first solo album “Chicana en Nueva York” with themes of her authorship, her first single “Todavia” granting her the Latin Artist Revelation of Premios Latinos Fama in 2019. In 2020 she released her second single "Noche de Marzo".

Born and raised in El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juarez, México her love for these borderlands and in order to take her music career to another level Marilyn moved to New York in 2014 and has lived there ever since. She has shared the stage with Bobby Cruz, Richie Ray, Arturo Ortíz, and Latin Grammy winners Samuel Torres Flor de Toloache among others. In 2018 she became the female lead singer of Calpulli Mexican Dance Company. She is also the lead singer of Mexican Latin Alternative band Adderesound.

https://www.marilyncastillo.com/ 

Singer Nedelka Sotelo

Nedelka Sotelo is a performer/teaching artist born and raised in Mexico City. Currently living in New York acting with different theater companies (Teatro SEA, Mexico Beyond Mariachi, etc) and singing with her Mexican Reggae Band "Nedelka & Latin Roots".

https://www.facebook.com/NedelkaSoteloArtist/  

Equinox Art Exhibition

Won’t you join us, March 13 - 2-5 PM. Let us know you are coming.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/whm2022-art-exhibition-featuring-the-latin-jazzy-sounds-of-marilyn-castillo-tickets-288314084187

About the Author — Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, producer, promoter, event planner, and community partner. Gregory Burrus combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music and being a strong community advocate. 

I love writing about it all. My mission is to help community groups, live music bands, and local nonprofits, reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life. 

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus   
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus 

(RECAP) Fabulous WHM2021 “Refresh In Progress” Women's History Month Celebration

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Thursday, April 1, 2021

8 years ago, Joy Topping-Mann started a Women's History Month Celebration because, as she said, “I believe in strengthening the bonds of Sisterhood. I wanted to create a platform for women to unite, share their gifts, talents and accomplishments, and thereby encourage others to do the same.” Joy felt that “Many accomplishments of local women go unnoticed. I love exposing these unsung heroes, applauding them for their excellence and giving them their flowers now.”

St. Joseph's Church - formerly named the Priory - with Denise McCoy

This masterfully produced event is usually conducted in the Priory Jazz Club in Newark, NJ which is inside a beautiful old church (St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church) on West Market. The church closed in 1980 and New Community purchased the church and neighboring property from the Archdiocese of Newark in 1983 and renovated the church, at a cost of nearly $2 million. 

WHM2021 Co-producer Denise McCoy has been booking the talent, special events, galas, anniversaries and street festivals for the last 26 years for the Priory, where she highlighted local artists from the New Jersey metropolitan area. Denise’s events are always well-attended and this year’s Women's History Month Celebration has been a sellout.

Sadly, this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic-related social distancing restrictions, a normal gathering of over 100 plus folks was not allowed or doable. With the help of a few friends, Joy set up a very successful GoFundMe Benefit to support the cast and production crew and ensure a quality, professional event would still happen. 

Green Room 

Eight years later, this Women's History Month Celebration continues to be produced by Joy Topping-Mann, a.k.a. Ife Basim, and this year the event was broadcasted on Friday, March 26, 2021 at 7 PM from the Mann Mansion in Hillside, NJ. On arrival, the cast and production team were treated to a wonderful Green Room version of nourishment and libations. With a remote TV director in South Orange, NJ, the onsite video production team was in place and the cast was ready, and then it was showtime. 

Refresh In Progress

The theme of this year’s performance was “Refresh In Progress.” The cast performed 3 primary scenes of this play written by Joy, Survival, Strength and Sisterhood. The message was to get the word out that we have all made it this far through the many challenges of the pandemic and our almost new normal, and we should start our Refresh process now. 

Table Dialogue Scenarios

Along the way, there were numerous table conversations discussing the issues of the past, the pandemic and the challenges we continue to face today as the pandemic made us feel bad about feeling bad. The dialogue made it clear that just because you are at home doesn’t mean there is nothing to do.  Like the performers explained, you should reach out to friends and family. Just because you are “shut in” doesn’t mean you are “shut off." You can refresh with friends. 

Positive Uplifting Music

With musical accompaniment by Pianist and Jazz House Kids Teaching Artist Brandon McCune, the performers/singers Joy Topping Man, Zakiyyah Zaimah, Phyllis  Blanford and Patricia Walton further emphasized the Refresh in Progress theme with some extremely positive uplifting songs. 

Special Guests

With the previously stated message of “wanting to create a platform for women to unite, share their gifts” two very special guests were selected by Joy for the WHM2021 performance. 

Flying on Broken Wings

Soon to be best selling author, Dr. Phyllis Bivins-Hudson, read excerpts from her new book, “Flying on Broken Wings”, a journey out of poverty and into success after experiencing some incredible rough situations. An  especially impactful message from one excerpt was when Dr. Phyllis Bivins-Hudson read: “in the madness of it all I found the strength to move on with no place to go but all the way up. I was dancing in my own rain.” She found a way to refresh and move on even at her worst times. Truly a Refresh In Progress.

Keeping It Real

Tonya Agosto was also keeping it real, with her standup comedy, “Let’s Talk About It.” Tonya started her standup comedy routine as an outgrowth of the pandemic. Clearly addressing the play’s primary focus on Strength, Sisterhood and Survival she discussed the issues all women faced — keeping the family safe and vibrant with stay-at-home school kids along with our new adjusted stay-at-home lifestyles. As Tonya would say, “Ladies, let’s talk about it” and she did.  

WHM2021, A Wonderful Experience

As folks experienced, this expertly written script was performed in the lively, positive professional manner as expected by the playwright. The subject matter focused on being introspective about you, your feelings and the pandemic. Well, being introspective is too often considered a sign of weakness, but as the performance demonstrated, it should instead be an indication of strength, and more so associated with thoughtfulness, introspectiveness and independence. This experience of dialogue, music and song definitely encouraged the listeners to start their refresh journey now.  While there were some internet issues during the live experience, folks reported enjoying the performance tremendously. 

A message from Playwright, Author and Vocalist Ife Basim

Playwright, author and vocalist Ife Basim

“I would like to thank everyone who tuned into Ife Basim Masterpieces 8th Annual Women’s History Month Celebration, “Refresh in Progress.” Your applause that was received through the many comments of congratulations was greatly appreciated. You can still experience this wonderful performance by watching the replay of the show on the web at http://ifebasim.tv. 

Broadcast Production Support Team

Co-Producer Gregory Burrus and his team were very happy to produce Videography, photography, press and social media services along with broadcast services of g2bproductions. We were just thrilled to be involved for this 8th Annual Women’s History Month event led by the imaginative and very creative playwright Ife Basim along with live music lover and promoter from the Priory, Denise McCoy. 

About the Author Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, producer, promoter, event planner, and community partner. Gregory Burrus combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music and being a strong community advocate. 

Donations to continue this wonderful event are still being accepted at www.ifemasterpieces.com. Again, we thank you for your support. Just know that Ife Basim Masterpieces has so much in store, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Learn more

Meet the Cast : Patricia Walton - Phyllis Blandford - Zakiyyah Zaimah - Brandon McCune -
Meet Your Producer Joy Topping-Mann (aka Ife Basim)
Meet Co-producer Denise McCoy 
Meet Co-producer GregoryBurrusProductions
Checkout Ife Basim - www.ifebasim.tv  
Support Us GoFundme: http://ifebasimmasterpieces.com

WHM2021 Women's History Month Celebration by Ife Basim Masterpieces

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Monday, March 15, 2021

"2020 was a whirlwind year of unpredictable and unexpected change, where our lives were abruptly interrupted, and our normal routines came to a grinding, screeching halt. Fatigued by setbacks, loss, grief and pain; exhausted, we held our breath waiting for any sign of relief." — Ife Basim

Enter Social Distancing

A coronavirus awareness sign around the U.S. Capitol encourages social distancing.

Per the CDC, "having to physically distance from someone you love—like friends, family, coworkers, or your worship community—can be hard.” It caused change in plans—for instance, having to do virtual job interviews, virtual dates, not being able to visit love ones in a health facility or worse we couldn't visit some of our own folks in our own home.

Refresh In Progress

Last year, right after the 2020 7th Annual Women’s History Month Celebration, the world literally shut down cold. On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared COVID-19 a global pandemic and we all went inside and hid from an unknown virus call COVID-19. As one reporter stated, “It felt like the world was falling apart" and we truly had no idea that the pandemic would last a year and that we would still be living through it today. Well, it's a year deep into the COVID-19 pandemic, the stress has been intense, and it’s time to take a break and just breathe again.

Inspiration Drives Creativity

This year, the 8th Annual Women’s History Month is being driven by inspiration and the results and rules of the COVID Pandemic. With Social Distancing in full effect, this year's event adheres to CDC Guidelines but more importantly is focused on addressing the daily ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In our limited travel, we had a chance to interview the founder of the Annual Womens' History Month Celebration, now entering its 8th year. Enjoy the following:

Why did you start Women’s History Month — WHM2014 years ago?

Through The Years - Women's History Month Celebrations

Ife Basim: I started WHM because I believe in strengthening the bonds of Sisterhood. I wanted to create a platform for women to unite, share their gifts, talents and accomplishments, and thereby encourage others to do the same.

Which women or more inspire you?

Ife Basim: I am inspired by the goal-setters, the risk takers, the fearless, the determined and those that never lose sight of their goal. No matter how big or small the task, I am inspired by those that find new ways to live their best life.

What criteria is used to select your honoree?

Ife Basim: Many accomplishments of local women go unnoticed. I love exposing these unsung heroes, applauding them for their excellence and giving them their flowers now.

What can people look forward to this year that's new and different?

Ife Basim: Well, what's different is that we all have experienced the setback results of a Pandemic, and if you are blessed to have survived through COVID-19, you like so many others are now living a new normal.  The theme "Refresh in Progress" is just a way of letting people know that now's the time to exhale, hit the reset button and  refresh your life, by any means necessary.

Also, this year we will adhere to CDC Guidelines and address social distancing guidelines and live streaming our event. Our live-streamed performance talks of surviving, strengthening and, of course, the importance of sisterhood, which I am sure will not only entertain, but inspire others to begin their refresh in progress.

How can folks join in and support this year's Women's History Month Celebration?

Ife Basim: This year we hope those who have joined us over the years can join in this year's 2021 Women's History Month Celebration and help us keep this wonderful, inspiring, celebration, move forward. Please listen to our message below.

Ife Basim: Live-Streamed Celebration. The theme for this year, “Refresh in Progress.” Restoration is a process.  Renewal is a process. Refreshing is a process. Start your process.

Please click here and join in the fun.

Meet Your Producer — Joy Topping-Mann (aka Ife Basim)

In her early days as a Contemporary Christian artist, songwriter and arranger, Joy Topping-Mann co-produced three CD projects of original music which she performed nationally and internationally with her band ‘Gifts.’ She has opened for other well-known Christian artists, was signed with Jamm Records, a Los Angeles, California record company, and has had her music played on radio stations throughout the U.S.

As a jazz vocalist, Joy’s rich melodic voice and unique phrasing take the listener back to the days of classic jazz, invoking shades of Sarah Vaughan and hints at the daring of Billie Holiday. Warmly embraced by enthusiastic audiences, she has appeared at several venues in the Tri-state area.

As a producer and promoter of special events, Joy has received local acclaim for the Annual Women’s History Month Celebrations held each March at the St. Joseph’s Plaza (formerly known as the Priory) located in Newark, New Jersey. These uniquely memorable experiences have focused on honoring extraordinary women for their outstanding accomplishments, while empowering and encouraging women, young and old to pursue their dreams and practice the art of protecting their peace. Audiences have been treated to virtuoso performances by the Tri-state’s most talented artists.

Joy’s prowess as a writer has been rewarded with two of her essays being selected by the Billie Holiday Theater’s 50in50. “Letters to Our Daughters” in 2019 was performed at the Kumble Theater in NY by Actress Marsha Stephanie Blake, and her submission, "Letters to Our Sons" 2020 was selected to be read by one of New York City's finest actresses on March 14th & March 15th as well as performed at the WACO Theater in Los Angeles, CA.

She has now set her sights on play writing, and her debut stage production “Storms Weathered” is quickly capturing the interest of many. One of her 10-minute plays “ELEVATE HER” was read by actors of Unidentified Stages at SOPAC.

Producer of the Annual Women's History Month Celebrations, Joy Topping-Mann's (aka Ife Basim) goal is to leave lasting impressions in whatever she does. Excitement is definitely in the air for the 8th Annual WHM2021 which will be streamed online Friday, March 26th. Come join us. You will not be disappointed.

About Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus is a local live music producer, promoter, event planner, and community partner. Gregory Burrus combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music and being a strong community advocate. He is clearly happy to support and help produce this 8th Annual Women’s History Month event led by the imaginative and very creative Ife Basim along with live music lover and promoter from the Priory, Denise McCoy. 

Learn more: https://gregoryburrusproductions.com

Support our GoFundme: http://ifebasimmasterpieces.com