RAWMemphis Artist Showcase

Saturday night, I attended the RAW natural born artists showcase event held at Minglewood Hall.   RAW is an independent arts organization in over 81 cities and their mission is to provide artists with a platform to showcase their work as well as to provide tools and resources to emerging artists.  Described as a "circus of creativity," the event features art, fashion, music, film, hair, makeup, photography, and performances all in one venue and one one night.

I was excited for the to scope out local talent as well as mix and mingle with the creative community in Memphis.  Apparently many other Memphians had the same idea--the place was packed!  This was great for the event but not so great for my faraway-parking-in-heels situations--accepting future chauffeur applications!

The scene at Minglewood

One of the first people I ran into was fellow blogger and stylist, Kim Thomas, author of KP Fusion. She's an expert on all things Banana Republic during the day and pursues her passion as writer and stylist by night.  I personally love the great makeup tips she regularly posts.

Kim Thomas of KP Fusion

Here are some of my fave finds of the night:

NCG jewelry sells both unique vintage pieces and repurposed vintage creations, such as this statement necklace constructed from brooch

NCG jewelry: How cool is this vintage bone and brass bangle?

Denise Dunn of 7LuckyStones showcased handmade jewelry using one-of-a-kind stones.   My favorites were the chunky bold necklaces featuring agates, like this piece.  

Quistt sent oversized clutches in original geometric shapes and mod fabrics down the runway

Little Owl Designs showcased this typographic US map.  And if you're a Memphis Grizzlies fan, you must see this! 

This is the piece Abby, Star, and I all oohed and ahhhed over--the ultimate statement necklace displayed in such an eye-catching way!  Stephanie Bray is both metalsmith and jeweler.   

Metal brooches and necklaces in eye-catching colors by Stephanie Bray

I also loved seeing several Memphis Fashion Week participants featured during the event:

Dominique Chaney, makeup artist for Mystique Makeup, created looks for the runway models

Terial Lee, a MFW Emerging Designer sent 7 looks down the RAW runway 

Designs by Terial Lee

And a few more snaps from the evening

Tanieka Carter, emcee for the evening, and Kimberly Taylor of K'PreSha boutique

Photographers and spectators intently watch the runway shows

With Travis Bradley, my favorite Ballet Memphis dancer and Memphis Fashion Week model

I thoroughly enjoyed the celebrating creative pursuits, chatting with artists and reconnecting with friends in the creative community.  How about you?