Creative Connections: Vartra

It had been a while since I did a Creative Connection and wanted to do something a little bit different so started with Heart of Autumn and now I have the pleasure to do my first band interview on For Writing Out Loud. As a frequent contributor to Go Indie Now, I do my best to shine a light on independent musicians and bands who could use a little more exposure and whose music I think is perfect for everything from exercising to writing. I also LOVE exploring music from around the world and sharing that wealth and recently I came across Vartra, a Serbian band that explores world fusion, dark folk, and extremely ethereal music that to me is ideal music to write or for a film score. Founded in 2017 by Siniša Gavrić and sisters Ivana and Aleksandra Stošić, Vartra takes musical inspiration from Slavic and Vlachian folk themes and Native American drumming. It’s different, it’s out there, it’s downright magical quite often, and I’m pleased to have them over for a chat.

 

1. Zdravo, from the other side of the world! So nice to have you on the blog. Can you tell the readers a bit more about Vartra, the meaning of the band’s name, how the project came together and what the first years of the band has been like? 

 

Zdravo! Thank you for inviting us. As you mentioned in the introduction, we are heavily inspired by the southern Slavic relics present in the oral tradition of the Balkan region. Even though the Slavic influence is most notable in our lyrics and style of vocals, our musical inspiration is drawn from a far broader pool. We are combining different indigenous musical practices from various regions (such as shamanic drumming, didgeridoo, middle-eastern instruments etc.) as well as the influences of musical subcultures we all grew up with (80’s and 90’s ambient, metal, post punk, gothic etc.). The name Vartra comes from the Sanskrit word for protection, defense, warding off – chosen to complement the ritual healing and protection spells from the Balkan region that inspired our early works. The band was founded through a friendly artistic collaboration of Siniša Gavrić and the sisters Ivana and Aleksandra Stošić. In the first year of existence, the founding trio was mostly focused on composing and recording the music that is now our first album “Luna Noua”. During this time, we also produced and recorded a few music videos for the songs with the help of the performers from Ivana’s dance studio “Twisted Dolls”. As the album slowly came together, there was a need to share this music with the world and other musicians were recruited to the band to bring the instrumental variety of this music to life on stage. The current lineup includes Stevan Momčilović (didgeridoo, rattles), Andrej Bunjac (djembe, other percussion), Ana Katić (violin, backing vocals), Julius Velker (drums, sound engineer).

 

2. Where did Siniša connect with the Stošić sisters?

 

After a decade of living in North America, Siniša returned to Serbia in 2016. He was friends with Ivana since 2010 and upon his return they started to live together as roommates. Being a frame-drum and rattle craftsman, Siniša incorporated handmade instruments into his music compositions and included Ivana in the singing/song writing process. Sometime in 2017, Ivana’s pole art troop decided to develop a performance describing a Vlach ritual from Eastern Serbia “Dubočke Kraljice”. The idea was to compose and use original music reminiscent of the Vlach rituals but with a strong rhythm suitable for dance. That was when Ivana’s sister Aleksandra joined them bringing her methodical approach to the table. In four months, the three of them worked to compose 60 minutes of music for the performance. The completion of this project marked the beginning of their creative teamwork and future collaboration. After the festival, they started composing new songs, eventually recruiting new members and kicking off a successful series of live shows in the years that followed. 

 

3. When I first heard Luna Nouà, I was reminded a bit of Heilung from Germany although a bit less freaky, a bit more mystical, and even more accessible (to me at least). I think it’s deep and rich music that definitely paints a picture. If there were an art exhibit inspired by Vartra, what are some art pieces you would like to see in the exhibit? 

 

That is quite a compliment. Heilung is amazing! As to the art exhibit, that is an interesting and tough question. We would definitely like to see photos depicting old traditions like for example the work of Evo Danchev (we really admire his work) or works of Damselfrau. Definitely photos depicting traditional festivals (example the carnival of Vevcani in North Macedonia, Busójárás in Hungary). If the more classical art work or concrete art pieces are in question, maybe Albrecht Durer’s The four horsemen, Viktor Vasnetsov’s Sirin and Alkonost. A few more could be Nymphs Dancing to Pan’s Fluteby Joseph Tomanek, Dancing Fairies by Johan August Malmström, and all such magical, pagan and simply natural (as in mountain landscapes) paintings would fit very well. 

  

4. The cover work for the album is quite stunning. Who did the artwork and what was the inspiration behind that visual and the album itself? 

 

Thank you. Our art performer Anđela Vujić designed the album cover. It features the beautiful Luna moth, that represents intuition. The first album has a lot of influences from the cultural heritage of the Vlach ethnic minority in Eastern Serbia. The song Flori is inspired by the Vlachian ritual singing on the morning of the holiday Cveti. The holiday Cveti traditionally celebrates the beginning of the spring. The song Primovara (Spring) depicts the dawn of the holiday Cveti before the ritual performance is about to take place. The lyrics of the song Luna Nuoă are part of the Vlach oral lore as well, as one of the incantations for health, sung to the new moon. Other songs include fragments of Vlach oral lore (Roša and Jo Čero), or of Serbian incantations (Mrza, Razija). Žal (Mojot Dom) is inspired by transcendental experiences and written by Ivana Stošić (Macedonian language).

 

5. Checking my blog stats, I don’t have ­­­­­­­many­ people who are from your neck of the woods. How would you describe Serbia to someone who isn’t familiar with the country?

 

It is a beautiful country. If you love hiking or just being in nature you should definitely check out some of our many mountains. There are many well preserved medieval monasteries and fortresses open for tourists. Due to the centuries long Ottoman Empire occupation of the Balkans, our cultural heritage is a mix of Slavic and Oriental, which you can hear in the music, see in traditional dresses and architecture, taste in the food. You can also visit the prehistoric sites on our territory reaching all the way back to the Neolith era (Vinca’s relics and settlements, Lepenski Vir). The 20^th century left Serbia with a lot of traces from the socialism era (Yugoslavia) – just by walking through the streets of any city in Serbia you cannot miss these. Serbian people are generally recognized as friendly hosts, so welcome!

 

6. I read that the lyrics are inspired by Vlachian incantations and performed in (Wallachian) language, Serbian, and Macedonian. Most people won’t be familiar with these languages, though music often taps into something more primal that connects us. Ideally, what would you want your music to evoke in listeners around the world? 

 

We believe that the perception is quite individual. What we would like to evoke are cathartic experiences as per individual needs and without the given context (meaning of the lyrics for example). One of newer to date yet unpublished songs, Jerovine, is sung in a crafted language for this very reason. On the other hand, we decided to base our songs on the incantations (spells) from this region, because they are an important relic of our culture and history and unfortunately close to be forgotten. This is our way of giving them a chance to survive.

 

7. What are some of the most peculiar places where you have fans?

  

Thanks to our social media – Twitter, Facebook, Bandcamp, Youtube and Siniša’s online drum shop on Etsy we have found fans all around the world spanning multiple continents. Besides the Balkans, we came in touch with fans from both North and South America, Russia, North African countries etc. In the current day and age, it is difficult to reach audiences without a serious marketing budget but we are happy that no one reached by our music was left indifferent by it and that the base of people enjoying our works grows steadily every day.

 

8. A director of a video game or movie contacts the band’s representatives…they need a score for a movie. What type of movie or game does the band envision their work adding to the overall experience to create something truly special? 

 

Given the variety and emotional intensity of Vartra’s music it could be a fit for many things. Obviously it fits perfectly with the dark medieval fantasy genre. Our music has a strong rhythmic and vocal components and it fits well with narrative scenes of mystery, tension and even with medieval combat choreography. Some of our fans likened our music to that from “Heroes of Might and Magic” or “The Witcher” and there is never a shortage of historical and dark fantasy on the market. Titles like “Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice” or “Horizon: Zero Dawn” could be further enriched by the atmosphere of some of Vartra’s tracks. Other genres where we could contribute would include psycho thriller, utopian/post-apocalyptic fiction, historical and epic drama, anthropological and spiritual topics. Some examples might be movies with similar topics/atmosphere such as Mid Sommar (Ari Aster) and The Lighthouse (Robert Eggers) for example. Essentially Vartra would be a great match with any work of visual art that could benefit from raw intense emotion transmitted through drumming and ethnic vocals.

 

9. You describe your shows as a cathartic experience, almost a healing ceremony. Dark but in a way where the darkness is drawn away from the spectator. Can you tell us more about that and what the intention behind the music is like?

 

Repetitive drumming, chanting and dancing were the core elements in rituals since the beginning of civilization when it came to ceremonial/healing practices. Although one might perceive our music as “dark” listening it for the first time, we use the same approach by incorporating the primal, organic sound with the mantric drumming and through the repetitive, atmospheric sound and simplicity of harmony - we believe we part with the darkness. Similar to shamanic healing, where the shaman leads an individual to face and recognize their traumas and guides them to overcome and heal, each individual spectator can experience this process for themselves by surrendering themselves to the sound and atmosphere around.

 

10. How many instruments are there in the album? I ask because beyond some more common instruments, the band performs on handmade drums and rattles crafted by Siniša. Also, how long does it take to make those instruments and where did he learn how to do this?

 

A lot. Percussions make the majority of our sound. They range from handmade frame drums and rattles, sticks, darbuka, djembe, rainstick to bells, cymbals etc. As for the melodic instruments, we use flute, didgeridoo, violin, keyboard, saz, electric guitar and the most perfect instrument of them all – the human voice. Siniša learned how to make frame drums in 2006 while he was in North America, following the traditional drum making from First Nation Tribes such as the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh etc. The whole drum making process takes a couple days to complete. After coming back to his motherland, Siniša developed and perfected his own style in frame drum making that is recognized by many as stunning craftsmanship infused with great energy. 

  

11. Imagine that there is a spiritual retreat that wants the band to perform live, but beyond that, they want to throw the band a feast. What would be the food and drink for the festival? 

 

As with our entire mantra, Vartra cherishes everything coming from local traditions of the regions we visit. We are not picky eaters, but we love to eat a lot and if we get to have a personalized feast – put together anything that would be picked by the locals as something “you must try”. J 

Food is an important part of any country’s cultural heritage and any food or beverage that’s traditional and local is welcome for the tasting. We are still talking about the beautiful feast at the Javorwood festival in Bosnia and Herzegowina, with the traditional food and beverage served outdoors in the mountains. 

 

12. And all that is left is to roll the red carpet. Where can people connect with Vartra, the music, and what are the best ways to support the band beyond just streaming the album? 

 

We’re out there, everywhere. Check our Spotify, Bandcamp and Youtube for music, our Official website, Instagram and Facebook for announcements, pictures etc. Also, check out our Etsy stores, there you can buy Siniša’s shaman drums and rattles and Ivana’s tribal fashion pieces. The best way to support us is by spreading the word!

 

Official Website

Youtube

Bandcamp

Spotify

Facebook

Instagram

 

Vartra Etsy Stores:

www.etsy.com/shop/VartraDrums | www.etsy.com/shop/VartraTribe

 

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And there you have it, though I already loved the music, it's been an absolute treat to connect with Vartra and get to know a bit more about them, their mantra, and to find out about local traditions and artists. In addition, they are people after my heart with a shared love for exploring local food and drink. Stay tuned to Go Indie Now where I'll be reviewing their album Luna Noua and keep an eye out for upcoming releases. This is a band to keep your eye on as well as delighting your ears with some mystical melodies. Thanks again for connecting creatively, and til next we meet through words...

Peace, love, and maki rolls

Creative Connections: Amy Dionne AKA Heart of Autumn

Life never ceases to amaze in regards to the amazing people we meet and the ones that become our friends. I’ve known Amy Dionne for years and beyond the great human she is, I’ve always been impressed with her creative talents, especially when it comes to knitting, quilting, embroidering, and all things handcraft related. Since these times are definitely intense AND challenging, I’m a big supporter of anything that can help people to process all they’re living and experiencing, and I recently learned about her new initiative, The Anxiety and Mood Quilt – a year long process (https://heartofautumn.com/the-anxiety-and-mood-quilt-a-year-long-process/). To tell us more about this initiative and no doubt clarify that the title is a work in progress, here’s miss Dionne.  

1. Welcome, welcome to the blog and so lovely to have you here, my dear friend. How’s it going and before we dive into deep pools of randomness, what can you tell us about your initiative?

I’ve been fascinated by the modern quilt movement, and most recently with quilters creating ‘temperature quilts’ - tracking temperature over the period of a year and interpreting that in a quilt form. I watched a webinar and knew that I wanted to do something along those lines, something that would completely engage me over a year. It was my husband that suggested exploring the mental health aspect and tracking anxiety patterns over a year. As soon as he said it, that idea clicked.

2. What a curious term-modern quilt movement. Super interesting about tracking temperature and I think what you suggest is tracking emotional temperatures, if you will. So how can people join in with you and what can they expect from the process?

On my blog is a page dedicated to the quilt, with the story behind it and clarity about how mental health and creativity are part of the driving force behind the project. I’ll be posting updates regularly and pictures of each month’s progress as I go.

3. You’ve also done several other handcrafts and have even sold more than a couple of things via Etsy, am I right? If so, how was that experience and how would you describe your artistic approach?

I’ll be completely honest, although I enjoy having people admire and purchase my work, I’d consider my Etsy shop (and the craft shows I did in person) basically duds. I couldn’t dedicate the time and energy needed to produce the amount of product that would have been necessary for success. I also had no time for creative play since every item I did create needed to be sale worthy. I didn’t experiment with my craft, nor was I able to allow room for growth. As the shop became a continuing drain on my energy, I decided to shut it down.

4. Sometimes shutting something down is good for us and that's something people need to come to terms with a little more. As for it being a "dud", maybe it didn't get the sales some other shops did, sure. That doesn't mean it was a dud because on a couple of occasions I saw pieces I thought were fantastic. Still, I think we can safely say you're not a one-trick pony since you also ride horses, write, and are handy with archery among other things? How do all your interests feed into your art and creative process?

There’s always a whimsical or fantastical aspect to my creations. I connect with nature deeply and  those images show up in my quilts. Life is lyrical and I try to bring that to life with my art.

 

5. You were actually the reason I tried mead! If you made a Heart of Autumn mead, what would it taste like?

Oh, what a great question. My tastes now run more to a dry mead, but it would definitely have tones of apple and oak.

6. Beyond the quilting, what other projects are underway and what is the importance of having more than one outlet?

I have a couple of embroidery projects that are stashed near my recliner to pull out and work on while watching TV. It brings me closer to my family history since most of the women embroidered. I have a quilt project coming up to take muslin squares of the state birds that my great aunts, etc., embroidered and make them into a quilt.

I also have stories in progress (primarily a post apocalyptic one, a paranormal romance, and a fantasy), along with writing poetry and articles for a local magazine, and articles for the Maine statewide quilt guild.

I think it is important to have more than one outlet creatively because each project feeds the next. I also find the projects, and life, intertwine with one another for renewal of the soul and heart.

7. You are actually the duchess of your own estate in Ireland, am I right? Can you tell us about this and if you had 5 laws to start off the town, what would they be?

It’s actually Scotland, but yes, I am officially Lady Dionne. It was a gift from my husband - he purchased the land for me and along with that came the title. We won’t mention that the town would have to be miniature to fit in the one square meter of land, but it counts in my book!

I’m not big on laws, per se, but my two biggest directives would be - respect for the land and all her creatures, and contribution to the community.

8. Hey, land is land and you have your own land lol. And to obeying those directives in full, then. Next slice of randomness: How would you describe your relationship with nature and how does it bring you peace and influence you?

Being pagan, nature is a huge part of my life. I believe the earth, its elements, and all her creatures are connected. Nature is usually represented in my art and in my writing. I believe part of my life's journey is protecting nature and teaching others about all aspects of life and its turning of the wheel.

9. Beyond lobsters, what are some things local to Maine you are proud to share with visitors?

Ah, yes, lobsters and lighthouses. We’re definitely known for that, and I do love the coast. There’s a huge section of Maine that isn’t coastal, and I grew up in ‘the county’ as it’s known, which is a region at the top of the state rich in the history of potato farming. The other side of my family lives in the shadow of Mt. Katahdin and Baxter State Park. The landscapes and changing seasons are why I love Maine. We also have some great craft brews here, so cheers to that.

10. Although I'm happy to see the change of seasons, man, am I NOT a fan of winter lol. Weather gripes aside, let's say a hobbit shows up at your doorstep and says they need your help. What do you take for the journey?

A good pair of boots, my hiking pack (which is always fully stocked and ready to go), a leather journal to record the journey, a hooded cloak - with pockets!, and my bow and arrows. Plus a wee hip flask, of course.

11. Lol so those hips don't lie takes a WHOLE new meaning. Thanks so much for this and now, all that’s left is to roll out the burgundy carpet and let people know where they can connect with you?

Find me at heartofautumn.com which has all the info about my quilting, and Twitter/Facebook/Pinterest - @heartofautumn. If you’re on Instagram, I’m @kaileykit there.

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And there you have it, my friends. Another creative connection and happy to share a great friend with you who is doing a great little project I think could help you and any knit loving person you may know. As usual, thanks for the company and til next we connect...

Peace, love, and maki rolls

Conexiones Creativas – Ediciones Enserio

Conectar con gente bonita y con pasión siempre da gusto y si algo caracteriza a Daryana Rivera, es la pasión, ser una persona genuina, fajona y que mira sus sueños y A-TA-CA. La vida no es para quedarse con las ganas y cada vez que veo una publicación nueva bajo Ediciones Enserio, me llena de muchísima alegría. Así que pensé que era el momento perfecto para conocer más de esta casa editora y su punto de contacto por excelencia. 

 

1.Saludos Daryana y qué lindo tenerte en el blog. Cuéntanos un poco de Ediciones Enserio. ¿Cómo surgió? ¿Cuándo surgió? ¿Qué tal les va? ¿De dónde salió el nombre?

 

¡Muchas gracias a ti por invitarme! Ediciones Enserio surge a finales de abril de 2020. Meses antes de comenzar la pandemia, yo ofrecía servicios de auto publicación y estaba en busca de diversos espacios para programar presentaciones de los libros de los autores con los que trabajaba. Así conocí a Lizbeth y su librería Tazas y Portadas, que en ese entonces llevaba alrededor de tres meses operando en Hormigueros. Compartimos ideas e inquietudes respecto a la comunidad de autores boricuas en la isla, hasta que finalmente, decidimos crear un proyecto editorial. Ella desde la parte de ventas y yo desde la parte creativa. Estuvimos horas en conversaciones telefónicas haciendo brainstorming. Una noche, en una de esas chácharas, casi a punto de quedarnos dormidas, salió el nombre “Enserio” (del verbo enseriar(se) ‘ponerse serio’, aunque de manera formal se escribe separado). Nos gustó porque sonaba jocoso e informal, sin perder su significado. Los resultados con cada publicación han sido excepcionales. Creo que influye mucho el hecho de que no nos hemos enfocado únicamente en la literatura culta, sino que hemos experimentado un poco fuera del marco de lo tradicional. 

 

2. Eso he visto y en parte por eso me llamó tanto la atención de Tazas y Portadas y Enserio. Pues cuéntanos, ¿qué libros han publicado y publicarán en 2021?

 

Actualmente tenemos 6 autores, cuatro ya están publicados y dos están bajo contrato y serán publicados próximamente. «El tren y la escalinata» del autor Ramón Fontaine, saldrá a la venta pronto. Nuestra próxima publicación sale para finales de abril. Se titula «El Reino Esmeralda» del autor Ángel Merced López. En mayo, de la mano de la autora Carol Blanco, inauguramos nuestra sección ENSERIO KIDS, para los más chicos y los que, como nosotros, no dejamos de serlo nunca. Hemos recibido varios manuscritos que nos interesa trabajar aparte de los ya mencionados. Estoy en comunicación con los autores. A los lectores les adelantamos que vienen publicaciones muy buenas, que nos ponen el corazón a mil. Ya se enterarán. Por lo pronto, la meta que tengo es publicar un libro cada mes o cada dos meses, ya veremos cómo nos va. 

 

3.Si alguien tiene un manuscrito, ¿pueden someterlo? Si fuese el caso, ¿cómo es el proceso?

 

Recibimos manuscritos todo el tiempo. Pueden enviarlos a: edicionesenserio.pr@gmail.com. Una vez se recibe el manuscrito se realiza una lectura rápida, si nos interesa contactamos al autor y programamos una reunión inicial. Usualmente se realiza un informe de lectura inicial que contiene una parte técnica, una parte descriptiva y otra valorativa. En esta primera interacción, buscamos conocer un poco más a fondo al autor y su obra, pero lo más importante es conocer cuáles son sus necesidades o de qué manera podemos contribuir exactamente, pues cada autor se trabaja de manera distinta. Luego de la primera reunión, si nos interesa publicar la obra, se realiza una oferta editorial que será discutida en una segunda reunión. Del autor aceptar la oferta, procedemos a redactar el contrato en el que se establecen los términos y condiciones para la publicación.

 

4. Los llaman del Departamento de Turismo…necesitan ayuda haciendo un nuevo concepto de convención de libros para complementar los ya existentes. ¿Qué 5 cosas TIENEN que estar en una convención de Enserio?

 

(1) Arte, una convención de libros constituye un espacio de programación educativa y cultural para introducir o acercar a los lectores a los libros, el arte en todas sus formas me parece importantísimo. Visualizo un despliegue de las diferentes disciplinas de las artes recreando sus propias versiones de los libros de nuestros autores. Ejemplo: un pintor con un canvas en un caballete haciendo su propia representación de Walter y sus globos de colores, un pianista tocando una nostálgica melodía del Florén de «La muerte tiene canas», una bailarina ejecutando en expresión corporal Una mujer en llamas de «Malamañosa», o una dramatización del escrito: La batata de oro de nuestra antología «El humor es cosa seria». (2) Conversatorios con nuestros autores. (3) Sorteo de libros o Meeting VIP con nuestros autores. (4) Mucho café o té. (5) Promoción de la lectura en sus diferentes soportes. 

 

 

5. Ja ja ja me gusta que incluiste té en la ecuación. Te lo agradezco. :) Ok, otra pregunta diferente: Una panadería local quieren hacer un postre en honor de ustedes. ¿Qué es, qué tiene y cómo sabe?

 

Una tartaleta de frutas. La masa o galleta que sirve de base es Enserio, la variedad de frutas son nuestros autores, que brindan diversidad de historias al público, y nuestra visión es la crema que une todos los ingredientes. A los lectores les corresponde decirnos cómo sabe nuestra tartaleta…

 

6. Me gusta que le toque al lector describirlos. Bueno, además de las publicaciones, están lanzando Semillero Creativo. ¿Qué nos puedes contar de este esfuerzo?

 

Semillero Creativo era mi idea inicial antes de que naciera Ediciones Enserio. Se trata de una plataforma educativa virtual no ortodoxa y al alcance de todos que ofrecerá cursos en línea sobre literatura, arte y otros temas relacionados. Por el momento estamos promocionando nuestro primer Curso virtual de Novela de Género. El recurso invitado es uno de nuestros autores firmados en Enserio: Carlos Daniel. Me encanta la idea de que la gente encuentre en esta plataforma material educativo al que puede acceder desde donde quiera y cuando quiera, que puedan ir a su propio ritmo y decidir qué es lo que quieren aprender, a un costo bien accesible. Los cursos comenzarán desde $25. Interesados pueden escribirnos a: semillerocreativo.pr@gmail.com o enviar un DM a través de nuestra página de FB. 

 

7. Cuáles son los autores actuales que publican bajo Ediciones Enserio y cuáles son algunas de sus publicaciones más populares.

 

Actualmente contamos con cinco libros publicados y vamos para el sexto en abril. Ha sido una sorpresa con todos los autores hasta hoy. Es difícil hablar de publicaciones “más populares” porque el catálogo es variado y los resultados con cada libro han excedido nuestras expectativas. Tenemos a «Walter», que fue nuestra primera publicación, y que a pesar de ser una segunda edición ha sido todo un éxito. Logramos entrarla a diversos puntos de venta, desde librerías locales alrededor de la isla, hasta a las farmacias Walgreens, de la mano de la gente linda de JR. La gente ha amado a Walter y a sus globos de colores, continuamos recibiendo reseñas sobre este libro con frecuencia. Carlos Daniel se posiciona, sin duda, a convertirse en un autor de éxito internacional.

 

Cuando publicamos «La muerte tiene canas» una novela de Caleb E. Rijos Narváez, en menos de dos semanas ya estaban todas las copias vendidas. La mayor parte de ellas se vendieron a través de nuestra página web. Caleb es un fenómeno, es talentosísimo, no solo como escritor, sino también en otras facetas. Tiene una pluma sólida y profunda, un talento innato que nos ha dejado a todos boquiabiertos y con ganas de seguir leyéndolo. Y qué decir de Natalie, ella es una ola. Siempre he visualizado a Enserio como una gran ola de autores que lograrán cosas trascendentales, ella encarna esa visión. Es ver a una fuerza de la naturaleza plasmarse en papel, quien ha leído «Malamañosa» lo sabe, quien no, debe considerar seriamente leerla. Su voz poética te estremece, te desgarra, te deja desnudo en medio de un todo y de la nada, trasquilado. Luego te seduce; te acaricia, te enaltece… es todo eso a la vez. Ramón Fontaine, por su parte, se dirige más a los temas sociales. Su libro «El tren y la escalinata» está compuesto por dos historias que nos transportan a tiempos de antaño, y logran colocarnos frente a realidades innegables que siguen tan latentes hoy como hace sesenta años, realidades sociales que muchas veces nos cuesta mirar o que seguimos mirando con cinismo. 

 

Ángel X. Merced López, es el autor de «El Reino Esmeralda», el manuscrito en el que estamos trabajando actualmente. Leerlo es como si estuvieras en una sala de cine viendo “The Lord of the Rings”, sencillamente fascinante. Tienen que conocer a este autor, apostamos muchísimo a su talento. Por otra parte, Carol Blanco llega con un cuento infantil maravilloso, titulado «Nenita y el señor Chelo». Es una preciosura. Por el momento su hija está trabajando en las ilustraciones, auguramos que será un éxito su publicación.

 

8. ¿Cómo ha sido la dinámica con las librerías en Puerto Rico y cuáles han sido algunas que más apoyo han brindado?

 

La dinámica ha sido buena, incluso, han llegado mensajes de dos librerías locales solicitando que les hagamos llegar nuestras publicaciones y que les tengamos en cuenta cada vez que surja alguna novedad editorial, eso se agradece infinitamente. Hemos recibido mucho apoyo de Tazas y Portadas en Hormigueros, aunque Lizbeth no está trabajando directamente con Ediciones Enserio hace unos meses ya, continúan los esfuerzos y las colaboraciones para promover el maravilloso trabajo de nuestros autores boricuas. El Rincón Lector & Coffee Shop en Camuy, La Casita Books & Gifts en Aguadilla, Librería Laberinto en VSJ y The Bookmark en Santurce, también han sido piezas claves. Aquí dos detalles que me gustaría resaltar: (1) Cuando visitamos El Rincón Lector & Coffee Shop en Camuy el recibimiento a nuestros autores fue de lujo. La propietaria sacó un rato para dedicar unas hermosas palabras a nuestros autores, insistiendo en la importancia de que sigan creando, moviéndose y creciendo en este sector. Es bonito ver que tratan a nuestra gente con ese respeto y admiración por lo que hacen. Nos sentimos muy honrados ese día. (2) Por su parte, Carlos Daniel fue recibido en la inauguración de The Bookmark,Santurce de forma inesperada. Tan pronto entró a la librería, le reconocieron y le dieron a firmar sus libros para dejar ejemplares firmados en la localidad. Agradecemos inmenso cada gesto que tienen con nuestros autores en las librerías, eso es lo que perseguimos; que se les honre, tanto a ellos como a sus obras. Estos pequeños detalles son un impulso para que continúen haciendo lo mejor que saben hacer: escribir.

 

9. De eso se trata y llena mucho leer que ha sido así. Sigo a muchos (sino todos) los autores bajo Enserio y se me infla el pecho. Bueno, a ponerte a pensar: Completa esta frase: El futuro de los libros en Puerto Rico… 

 

es brillante. Será una ola de autores gigantesca. 

 

10. La ñapa: Mirando festivales fuera de PR en el futuro, ¿hay alguno que tengan en la mirilla?

 

La Feria del Libro de Madrid.

 

11. EZPAÑA!!! Uso la zeta por graciocín aunque pues, bello el país. Y ahora lo que falta es que nos digas, ¿dónde pueden conseguir más info de Ediciones Enserio y ponerse en comunicación con la editora?

 

Pueden contactarnos a través de www.edicionesenserio.com o escribirnos un correo electrónico a:

 edicionesenserio.pr@gmail.com. 

En FB: /edicionesenserio

 

Genuinas gracias a ti, JD, por todo los esfuerzos y colaboraciones que haces. Gracias por pensar en colectivo y por incluirnos. Gracias por tanto respeto y cariño. Un cálido abrazo desde Puerto Rico, de parte de todos los que conformamos la familia de Ediciones Enserio. ¡Éxito siempre! Te queremos. 

 

 


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Y ahí ven por qué me hace tanta falta Casa, mejor conocido como Puerto Rico. Mi gente me llena el pecho de orgullo así que un abrazo a Daryana y a todos los autores de Enserio. Da gusto y llena de orgullo ver el talento local y es mi placer servir de puente, enlace, o pana en común para que la gente se conozca y se den a conocer. Sigamos cosechando éxitos y conquistando libreros.

 

JD

 

Creative Connections – Grecia Rivera Díaz – Photographer

In a year with so many negative surprises, it’s always nice when you get a good one. Grecia Rivera Díaz, her mom (and fellow Boricua author) Brenda Díaz, and her friend Nuria didn’t give me a good surprise…they gave me an amazing one. The sequence goes as follows, Brenda picks up my book “Twenty Veinte” and drops a couple of very encouraging messages…then she sends me a picture. A picture her daughter Grecia took of my book in Puerto Rico. One of several actually. The pictures range from lifestyle/fashion to deep thinking while reading and even include a photobomb or two of a pup that Mom would have absolutely adored. That was my book in a photoshoot and the pictures are pretty awesome. I saw some other pictures by Grecia and beyond giving her kudos, I wanted to give the readers of this blog the chance to connect with her because that’s what Creative Connections is all about. Shining some light on a variety of talented people who come from a good place and have talent. I love connecting with people and I love connecting people with other people and with music, art, film, and creative professionals that might have what your business/product needs. So without further ado, let’s get to know Grecia.

 

Firstly, thanks so much for giving from your time to be on the blog to chat with us and secondly, thank you SO much for the Twenty Veinte shoot. Tell us, what inspired the approach you took with the book and what goes into the creative process of a shoot like this?

 

Hi, first of all, thank you for this splendid opportunity so I can express how it goes when I’m taking these meaningful pictures with such positive vibes. For your book, "Twenty Veinte," my mom, Brenda Díaz, really wanted me to do a photoshoot for this book and, I found it curious just because of its title. Later on, I asked her what it is about, and she gave me a rundown so I could get some ideas for the photo shoot and how I would go about it. The way my mom explained it to me got me excited to do it. 

  

Then we started brainstorming which friend of my was going to model with it. When we were trying to remember which friend we were going to "hire," my mom remembered Nuria. For this book, I wanted to do something different. Nuria and I started to walk around in my neighborhood to look around for a spot to start taking pictures. 

 

When I take pictures, I want to make the model comfortable and chill during the whole process. Looking for the best angle and lighting all the time even if I have to get into an uncomfortable position. The shot is what matters, not my comfort. I also work to make the talent laugh so their smiles are natural. We talk so they continue to relax and look natural, never awkward in pictures. The mission is simple, keep the talent relaxed, and we’ll capture come natural magic. 

 

When I am looking for places to take pictures, first I imagine the model and the poses she could do. Then, I check lighting and evaluate the best angles for her. If she needs help with the poses, I help and hype her up during the whole process. That’s part of the job and a very interesting part of it. The best part of this whole process is when the model themselves love the pictures and get really excited. Also, when the author of the book ALSO loves the pictures because it helps them to promote their book and the public loves it, well everyone’s a winner.

 Ha! And I did indeed love the pictures. This was such an awesome surprise and immediately I was like I need to interview Grecia because I know she can do magic for other authors and their books as well. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves, let’s reel it back a bit. Tell us, what is your education background and what projects have you worked on?

 

Well for starters, I studied first through third grade in a small public school in the mountains in Cidra, Puerto Rico. At that point, my parents decided to change me to a private school called Colegio Bautista in Caguas, Puerto Rico, from fourth-grade until my senior year of high school. Now I’m in my freshman year of my Bachelor's, majoring in Computer Science at the University of Puerto Rico in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. Besides that, I took some art classes when I was younger. Later on, I took a course on doing mosaics. I also went to a modelling academy where I studied for three years before graduated and even earning a Red Diamond award, recognizing my development during my time at the academy.

 

Some of the projects that I have been working on since quarantine started has been to help promote my fellow Boricua authors and their books. I’ve also worked on custom artworks on Air Force 1, doing paintings, and designing custom clothes. During this year, all of this helped me a lot to discover some new talents that I have and using them for the best.  Some of the authors that I have made promotions for are Brenda Díaz with "Cuando me movieron La Losa", Alexandra Román with "Obsesión", Carlos Daniel with "Walkie Talkie", and with Sandra M. Colorado Vega with “Siempre en Viernes”. Here are some of the pics from the shoots we’ve worked on.

 

      

Such a great collection of pictures and also love the variety of settings, expressions, and styles for each shoot. Talking about the Twenty Veinte shoot, how do you know Nuria and how would you describe your dynamic with talent to get the picture you need?

 

The first time I met Nuria was when we were in the sixth grade. Everybody in our class knew her because she is super sociable and an extremely caring person. Before long, we started talking and became friends. When we were taking the pictures, everything flowed pretty effortlessly since we know each other and have a good relationship. She's a great model and a person you can easily work with. Something that I learned from this experience is that when you are taking a picture of someone, you need to understand that everybody has a different angle and actually different insecurities. You need to find that, address whatever is there, and work not only to make them feel beautiful, but show them the natural beauty that is part of who and how they are. You explore, you try some things, and help them find poses that play to their strengths and unique beauty. It’s always essential to motivate them during the process and make sure they feel relaxed and motivated.

 

And the works speaks for itself. These and several pictures are definitely an awesome way to promote books and it feels as if you try different things and do a proper way of exploring options. Actually, I have to ask, if someone wanted to get in touch with you for a shoot, is that something you’d be open to? I think a LOT of authors out there could benefit from this approach for their promotion and hey, who doesn’t like making their books look that beautiful?

 

I would absolutely love to work with anybody who needs to promote their books or products. It would be an honor actually, because beyond helping me grow and develop my craft, I love knowing that what I do can help someone on their journey. Doing this kind of stuff makes me feel fulfilled because it is something I love doing. Also, it’s a way for me to gain experience and get to know how many talents I have and help me develop them. Honestly, if anyone would like to work with me, feel free to contact me so we can talk about how we can get to work on making some magic. Obviously I’d need a copy of the book, but the sky is the limit in regards to what we can do together. 

 

That’s awesome, and seeing how Bookstagram is, what I like of your approach is that it’s different and can definitely stand out from the crowd. Tell us, as a photographer, what do you think are your strengths and where do you want to get better?

 

One of my strengths when it comes to photography is that I first imagine how the concept is going to be and imagine the whole scene in my head with the model. Somehow I visualize everything how it is going to be and make a storyboard in my head to organize my ideas. From there, I can easily find the best angle for the model and what poses to go for.  The things I need to get better at would be editing photos, something where you are constantly learning. I think there’s also room for improvement when it comes to camera equipment, but what I have works, and this is DEFINITELY a time to work with what you’ve got. 

 

I’ve seen some pretty cool cosplay shoots around the world. Is that something you’d be up to doing with people?

 

It would be a fun experience to see someone with a cool cosplay in some natural settings. Being part of creating something fictional and bringing it to reality definitely appeals and I would be up for it.

 

I asked because seeing how you work with lighting, poses, and natural environments, I can easily see you doing a cool shoot with any of the countless great cosplayers in Puerto Rico. Ok, random question: You get a call from Time Magazine…they want to do an issue that inspires Hope. What would a cover photo by Grecia River Díaz look like?

 

Wow. That is a great question. A cover by me to represent hope would be like a girl that on a cliff, maybe on a swing looking at the sky. Picture her on the swing as if she’s flying. Thinking of Puerto Rico, there are a couple of places where you could also capture the ocean in the scenery too. A deep blue sea with the sky full of color bringing peace to the scenery and maybe some birds or butterflies who knows? That’s where my mind goes to. Capturing that dreamy aspect of it.

 

Love it and there have to be a few places like that where you can capture that moment, plus, Puerto Rico is such a gorgeous canvas. Anyways, back to chatting. It’s a year where a lot of people have gotten creative to pass the time or feel as if they’re being productive. What’s your 2020 been like and what things do you do to keep yourself creative?

 

My 2020 has been like a roller coaster. This year I graduated from my senior year, and everything just went downhill because of quarantine and the pandemic. I tried to keep my mind occupied during all that’s been happening by painting and doing photoshoots, as you can see. Also, during this whole year, I have been fostering some baby turtles that turned up in our backyard, and I am going to release them in a nearby lake when they get a bit bigger. At the end of this year I’ve begun to customize some clothes, and who knows? Maybe I can do a little collection and sell it. During this whole year, I have been trying to look for new hobbies and even started skating. While I am skating, it actually helps me clear my mind, plus I occasionally get brave and dare myself to do something risky like trying a new trick. Beyond that, it’s also helped me with my creative process as well as I think helped me improve my painting and drawing skills. I don’t know, it’s just relaxed me and maybe it’s a motor skill thing, or maybe I tapped into a different creative side, but it’s opened up a lot of things. I’m always trying to come up with new things to try and skills to developed so I don't depend on one thing.

 

That’s pretty awesome and I can relate from playing guitar, singing, and bodyboarding. All of those things allow me to tap into different things. Anyways, before I ramble off, another random question: You have a magical camera that if you take the picture of something, you get a copy of it in your home. This means that if you take a picture of a meal, a car, or anything, you get a copy of it. Your camera can take 10 pictures. What do you photograph and why? 

 

1. I would take a picture of Bill Gates's bank account so I can be a billionaire lol.

2. Take a picture of a studio so I can have a space to create stuff and be in my own world.

3. Also, take a picture of a beach in Culebra or Rincón (Western part of Puerto Rico), and the house keys just appeared in my house.

4. I’d take a picture of my dream job being a designer just doing creative stuff all the time.

5. I’d also capture an acceptance letter from my dream university, SCAD: The University for Creative Careers.

6. A picture of my whole family and loved ones so we can always be together.

7. A good quality camera.

8. Take a picture of Freddy Mercury so he can come back to life.

9. A dream walking closet.

10. A picture with my family in a calm scenery so we can always be relaxed enjoying life without any problems.

 

Great choices all around and I’m also a big fan of Freddie. Follow up Q, what are some dream jobs or projects you’d love to work on?

 

Some of my dream projects would include something big or going to some major event and be part of it. Create something so I can give it to the world. Being part of a fashion week or being part of the launch of an amazing app that can revolutionize the tech world. My dream jobs are basically to have a space to create and let my mind flow. Who knows, maybe being a fashion designer and creating my own store or an entrepreneur, being a famous photographer would be awesome or who knows, maybe my next adventure is to start to develop apps for a living?

 

All worthy and worthwhile projects and dreams. And now all that is left is to roll out the red carpet so you can tell people where they can connect with you. 

 

I’ll keep this short, you guys can contact me on Instagram @greciaariveraa_ or my design page krazydesingz. On Facebook, you can find me at Grecia Rivera Díaz.

 

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And there you have it, dear reader. Another Creative Connection and from people’s response to Twenty Veinte in the shoot, I highly recommend getting in touch with Grecia. Lots of talent, lots of desire to put her talent to work and to help fellow creatives. Definitely recommend her and looking forward to all the creative connections we can find. For now though, thanks once again for joining us for a chat and til next we connect creatively…

 

Peace, love, and maki rolls.

 

JD