Imagine a place where you can immerse yourself in total freedom. A place where responsibilities of the daily grind are abandoned and your inner child is encouraged to come out a play. Inhibitions, judgements, and preconceptions dissolve away with every smile and hug exchanged with a stranger. And that worldly concept of “stranger” fades as old and new friends become a part of this forest family and community.
Envision a world where Mother Nature’s beauty is enhanced by the audible and visual delights of artistic wizards; an environment where all human senses are stimulated and the concept of time is nearly nonexistent. Whether a newcomer or Electric Forest veteran, this festival is something special to all of those touched by its magic.
Over the four days at the Double J Ranch, we were truly treated to the splendor of such a treasured venue and special event. It is a challenge to fully describe what is experienced at Electric Forest and although many times impressive, photographs do not do this festival justice. Days later we are still taking everything in and we have comprised a list of our top favorite moments from this year’s Electric Forest.
Sensational Covers: Some of our favorite covers of the weekend came from Umphrey’s McGee, The String Cheese Incident and from the ever surprising Ms. Lauryn Hill Incident. Umphrey’s orchestrated the party Thursday night at the Sherwood stage with their stellar two-set show that included their concoction of “Come As Your Kids”-Nirvana’s “Come as Your Are,” and MGMT’s “Kids”- and Dead or Alive’s “You Spin Me Round” during the second set. The following day, and first night of three of Cheese’s Electric Forest performances, Cheese served up a funky danceable rendition of Chromeo’s “Bonafied Lovin.” Bob Dylan’s “Just Like Tom Thumb’s Blues,” The Police’s “Spirits in the Material World,” Fela Kuti’s “Zombie,” and Talking Heads’ “Crosseyed and Painless were also performed by Cheese over the weekend. When it came time for the Ms. Lauryn Hill Incident, we came with an open mind and we were impressed with the collaborative efforts that produced some of the best covers of the weekend including Stevie Wonder’s “For Once In My Life,” The Beatles’ “Something,” along with some Bob Marley and, of course, some Fugees throwbacks.
Totems/Rage Sticks: Love them or hate them, totems are here to stay. There seemed to be a lot more totems this year than previous years and the more the totems the more chance for creativity. Some of the top totems seen this year included one with Bubbles (from Trailer Park Boys) with some kitties which read “God, this place makes me frisky.” Another which spoke the honest truth read, “F**k Real Life,” and we cannot forget to mention the totems that read “CARL??” Props to everyone who got their creativity on with these, sometimes annoying, rage sticks and brought a smile to our faces.
Not All Who Wander Are Lost: Some of the best moments of the weekend were spent wandering in the Sherwood Forest both during the day and at night. A headliner in its own right, the forest is a pleasure for the senses. From getting lost in the art instillations, to the conversations with new friends, to (the occasional) losing track of time laying in our hammocks staring up at that blue Michigan sky peaking through the tree tops, to just sitting and watching the ever changing visuals make the forest come to life every night, and to even stumbling upon Super Tall Paul’s show after that second night of STS9 and hearing him break out in The Jungle Book’s “I Wanna Be Like You,” the forest is a magical universe all on its own. Differing worlds between day and night, taking time to explore and fall in love with Sherwood Forest alone is enough to make you never want to leave.
Wish Upon A Star: Now, this may be more of a personal favorite moment for us at Vinyl but one late night walking through the “secret” exit of the forest heading back to camp we happened to look up at the night’s sky and see a shooting star over head. If that doesn’t validate how enchanting this place is, we don’t know what else does.
Havarti Party: The String Cheese Incident knows how to throw a party or two and their performances at this year’s Electric Forest were no different. Going into their sets you know a spectacle is coming, but to what extent, that’s something you just have to wait and see. It was Saturday night, the second night of Cheese, and the second set started off with “Outside Inside” and ‘Valley of the Jig” while a video gamed themed extravaganza raged on, complete with gigantic inflatable Mario coin cubes, floating UFOs above, Pac Man stuffed characters on poles, full costumed dancers, butterfly confetti, lasers, smoke, and, oh, fireworks of course. This sensory overload of a party was ridiculous, insane, and unlike any other of that weekend. Everyone at this performance adorned a smile and there was not one still body in the Ranch Arena. The positive and electrifying energy of the crowd and the collective jaw dropping awe everyone was sharing in seemed to only fuel the band. Positive hoots and remarks could be heard throughout the crowd, we even heard someone calling this display a “Havarti Party”- that brought a smile to our faces. It’s moments and such celebrations of life like this that new and old Cheese fans don’t forget from a weekend like this.
Be Anything, Be Anyone: There is almost this sense of a judgement free zone when you step on the property that houses Electric Forest. This is a place to be free; a safe place to be whoever and whatever you wish. There is no dress code and being yourself is not only encourage but respected. If you want to let your freak flag fly, do it. If you want to wear nothing but body paint, you’re welcome to. This is a place where the mutual respect, acceptance, and support of fellow festival goers is almost unlike anywhere else.
Matt and Kim: First off, we cannot remember a time when an artist so openly talked about her lady parts…and we mean talked about it A LOT. From talking about shoving things up there to rubbing balloons on it before throwing them into the crowd…you get the picture. Shock value and apparent openness was there but it did not overshadow the afternoon party this duo brought to the Ranch Arena on Sunday. Matt and Kim’s intensity, vivaciousness, and love of what they do translated into a responsive crowd that fed off every word and action of Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino. It was hard to not be entertained from the two jumping around stage, Kim standing on her drums, throwing 300 balloons out into the crowd for them to blow up and even getting all the individuals with totems to move to one side. Fan favorites and the band’s hits were played, of course, and became a giant sing-a-long with the crowd singing every words back to them.
Until Next Year…: When was the last time you left an event, concert, anything really, where you exited and a collective cheer with clapping and happy yelling erupted? We couldn’t remember a time either… After Cheese’s third and final performance of the weekend we headed to catch Moby’s DJ set at the Tripolee Stage by the main entrance. While our minds were being blown by the fact that the DJ up there on stage was indeed Moby, we’re not talking your 1999 Play Moby, his set was interrupted by the news that a fierce storm was headed our way and everyone needed to leave the venue. It was an abrupt way to end the music that weekend, but the heads up to batten down our camp’s hatches was appreciated, aka throw everything in our cars and sleep in them for our final night. Leaving the venue was bittersweet; we were a tad solemn that the weekend was in fact over, but we were so grateful and extremely happy to have experienced such a magical event. The crowd as a whole seemed to be going through similar emotions and as the mass of attendees walked their final exit through the gates of Electric Forest, unified cheering and clapping broke out. The outburst was a shared thank you to everyone who had been involved in the weekend.
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Reptar at AthFest 2014. Photo by Miranda Feneberger.
In the summer, Athens is almost a ghost town in comparison to its usual hustle and bustle that makes it the Classic City. Most of the parking lots are empty, restaurants are slow, and the bars and music scene are practically nonexistent.
Then, for five days over a weekend in June, Athens gets its sparkle back. With two outdoor stages, 14 participating bar and music venues, comedy and an outdoor artist market, Athfest has something for all ages, shapes, and sizes.
The outdoor artist market featured a wide array of different vendors; from handcrafted jewelry, clothing and ceramics, to paintings, posters, and prints by local artists. What was especially appealing was that the majority of the booths seemed very DIY-esque and tumblr-y, in the best way possible. It was like a Pinterest board come to life, full of things you wish you were talented enough to craft yourself.
If you’ve been to Terrapin Brewery, you know Streets Café, Athens’ first food truck. Usually they’re parked on the grass somewhere, and after just a few too many pours of Hopsecutioner, I cannot resist the Street Fries (French fries perfectly smothered with cilantro mayo, Korean BBQ sauce, and Okinomi). After walking past all the other local food booths and trucks – i.e. Your Pie, Kelly’s, etc.), I once again couldn’t resist. Nothing like munching on Street Fries while watching Kishi Bashi at dusk on Saturday.
What makes AthFest so fantastic is that, during the day, you get to walk around the streets of downtown Athens and see beautiful art you can buy, eat delicious food, and enjoy amazing live music. Then, your favorite bars and music venues host even more amazing live music well into the night. Best yet – as Powerkompany’s Marie Davon said, it’s like a “family reunion.”
Roadkill Ghost Choir
Walking into the Georgia Theatre on Friday night was, as usual, nothing short of pure bliss. It was a very long, muggy, crowded, yet fabulous first day of AthFest. With most of the AthFest crowd still outside for Reptar, the Georgia Theatre was a spacious air-conditioned oasis, and Florida’s Roadkill Ghost Choir was setting up to take the stage for their 9:45 p.m. slot for the night.
I had first heard Roadkill Ghost Choir on Bonnaroo’s playlist for its 2014 lineup. The song featured on the playlist, “Beggar’s Guild” off their debut EP Quiet Light, caught my attention for its folksy, Fleet Foxes/Band of Horses-esque sound, yet it still packed a harder, more raw rock sound due to the Andrew Shepard’s rough but crooning vocals. Due to the usual festival frenzy, I didn’t make it to their set and so was very excited to see them perform at AthFest and be introduced to the rest of their music.
With “Beggar’s Guild” being my only exposure to the band, I was pleasantly surprised with their stage presence and energy. I was expecting a mellow half hour of bearded, flannel-clad men, to be honest. Instead, frontman Andrew Shepard’s thrashing, headbanging, stomping around in combat boots and impassioned vocals brought a loud and demanding energy to the growing Georgia Theatre crowd alongside Stephen Garza on lead guitar. Andrew’s brothers, Maxx on drums and Zach on the bass deliver the same kind of oomph, while Kiffy Meyers on the pedal steel, banjo, and guitar played into the bluegrassy, Tom Petty influenced sound that makes Roadkill Ghost Choir an indie folk-rock band.
They played with my emotions. At times, I was bouncing around dancing to the high-energy tunes of the set, then the lights dimmed, and they asked for the crowd to settle and Andrew’s vocals were swoony and perfect and graceful. Then he said, “Where’s our sax man?,” and I stifled a schoolgirl squeal due to my undying love for the saxophone. A flower headband-adorned New Madrid band member came up with his saxophone whilst draped in an American flag cape and blessed the crowd for a short-lived feature.
I left the Theatre almost glad I missed their Bonnaroo set. I got to see them at one of my favorite venues and in a much clearer state of mind (and a lot less dirty and grimy after a weekend on the farm). With a slot on Letterman early this year, an upcoming debut album, In Tongues (produced by Dr. Dog and Tokyo Police Club’s Doug Boehm and recorded in Athens – eep! – set to release by the end of the summer), and a festival-packed summer tour, Roadkill Ghost Choir is a band to watch. – JN
Family and Friends
Being a UGA student, I had already heard a lot of buzz about Athens’ own Family and Friends. So, when they took the Pulaski Street Stage late Friday afternoon, I was excited to see if they lived up to the hype — and they did.
Having only been putting on performances since April of 2013, they already had a comfortable stage presence and fed off of each others charismatic energies. The stage was packed with vocalists, guitars, a violin and upright bass, two dueling drummers, and the occasional what looked like flour bombers running across the stage. At 5′ 3″ it was nice to be able to still see someone playing something as I tip-toed over the heads of the huge crowd watching them — and by watching them I mean almost the entire crowd was dancing and singing along to Casey Harper and Mike MacDonald’s beautiful and inviting vocals.
Just in the 45-minute-or-so set that they had, the band exuded genuiness and pure humilty. I could tell that they were thrilled to be on stage and so thankful for their dedicated and hyped up fans in the immense crowd. Family and Friends is all about the fans. Their first album, Love You Mean It, came out in January of this past year and was funded by a Kickstarter campaign.
As I stood in the crowd, I was in awe of the energy they put forth — especially considering the lovely heat Athens offers us mid-June. They kept the energy of the mostly exhausted and overheated crowd alive the entire time while doing their own shenanigans on stage. F&F changed up the pace throughout their set and finished it off with a cover of The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back.” Members of another Athens band, Programs, ran on the stage by the end of the song yielding what looked like makeshift smoke machines/flour bombs. F&F finished off their set with as big of a bang as they played by stage diving into the ever so accepting crowd.
Family and Friends is an eccentric group of former/current Bulldawgs who have an obvious genuine love and talent for performing. Their individual eclecticness meshes together well as a whole and creates an exciting and lively performance. – JN
Judah & the Lion
By the time 6:30 p.m. rolled around, I didn’t expect many people to be willing to continue to brave the typical Georgia summer heat. That was until I experienced Judah & the Lion.
A large crowd of eager fans filled the space in front of the Pulaski Street Stage to see the Nashville, Tennessee natives. Soon the air was filled with hits such as “Sweet Tennessee” and “Love Your Love,” and there wasn’t a single person not tapping along to the beats. As the vocals, banjo, and mandolin combined, it became apparent this would definitely be a crowd favorite of AthFest.
Their stage presence was undeniably joyous and spontaneous. At first you were submerged into folksy music, but then Brian Macdonald decided to surprise us all with a rap during their unique cover of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.” These guys rocked out and were jumping all over the stage, including up on the speakers. With all that being said, I will definitely be seeing them again when they return to Athens in the fall, as well as look out for their new album in September. – KM
New Madrid
Once again the Georgia Theatre was a temple to music. This year, it housed New Madrid for AthFest 2014 as one of its late night acts.
As a veteran group to AthFest, they once again brought a large group of fans out into the night, myself included. Soon enough, the group—consisting of Phil McGill, Graham Powers, Ben Hackett, and Alex Woolley, dove into their music as it echoed around every fan screaming around the stage.
Between the red velvet curtains, New Madrid stayed true to their original sound. It was inevitable that you would begin to sway to the strums of the guitars and the soft beats of the drums. Nevertheless, these Athens natives continue to keep their fans begging for more and never disappoint. – KM
Jubee and the Morning After
It is safe to say that Jubee and the Morning After was a surprise favorite of mine during AthFest. From Macon, Georgia, this band combines high-energy funk with the smooth sound of vocals.
Taking the Pulaski Street Stage to a loud roar of approval from their fan, both local and distant, Jubee and The Morning After wasted no time in getting everyone moving. Soon Jubee in his American flag-printed vest began rapping to an undeniable funky beat. No one in the crowd could have possibly stayed still.
Soon a crowd favorite “Whatcha Made Of” was played. It was amazing to see all four band members create an energetic stage presence. Jumping, bouncing, swaying, or a combination of both emerged when the crowd roared with its approval of this song. I think Athens will agree that we hope Jubee and the Morning After will come back real soon. – KM
Kishi Bashi
On Saturday night, after the temperature had dropped and the numbers in the crowds began to rise, Kishi Bashi took the Pulaski Street Stage with his violin in hand.
A large crowd of eager fans and newcomers filled the space in front of the Pulaski Street Stage to see the composer. As the stage glowed in an array of blue and pinkish hues on top of the white draped fabric, Kishi Bashi played. I have never seen a violinist sing while playing his instrument, but I can’t think of anyone who would top this performance, in skill or in atmosphere.
Playing songs from his newly released album Lighght, Kishi Bashi gave the entire on-looking crowd something unique to remember and experience. I can definitely say that this was by far the most unique performance I saw, and it left me wanting more. – KM
Radiolucent
Once again Athens, Georgia continues to produce great bands that create even better music. Radiolucent, a group of “Georgia Boys” took over the Pulaski Street Stage to rock out with their Georgia fans.
As the performance continued, I found myself caught in between waves of gospel, rock n’roll, country and a whole lot of soul – no complaints here. The fans sang every word of nearly every song that the five-man group played.
Their stage presence was undeniably fun. Everyone could not help but enjoy the environment that was created as these guys rocked out and continued to keep the energy high throughout the entire show. That being said, I will definitely be seeing them again when they return! – KM
Don Chambers
When listening to Don Chambers, two words come to mind: Rock. Star.
Hull Street Stage provided the perfect area for Don Chambers to stun his fans under the Georgia sun. After every song, more and more people crept over into the streets, arriving out of curiosity and staying due to the mesmerizing performance.
The band in its entirety showed natural talent as well as a love for performing. Their stage presence was that of a band that has been playing together for over 20 years and creating hits for nearly as long. As the show slowly closed, I found myself surprised at how short the performance seemed. Even though it was the typical hour, I – along with many other – let out a sad sigh. Guess we all will have to wait till their next performance to hear the rock star sing. – KM
Reptar
Reptar is one of those groups that Athens locals just know about. It’s like the first word of any little baby Athens music lover. The group is made up of frontman and guitarist Graham Ulicny, bassist Ryan Engelberger, drummer Andrew McFarland, and keys player William Kennedy. I had the pleasure of seeing Reptar a year or so ago at CounterPoint Music Festival and that show was insane. AthFest, however, was my first time seeing them play in their homeland, and I was blown away. I imagine that the passion Athenians have for Reptar is greater than or at least equal to that of Brazilians for soccer. And that may be an understatement.
The show started up after fans had been crowding the edge of Pulaski Street for thirty or forty minutes chanting and cheering. Ulicny was wearing a long wig, and the rest of the group was decked out in varying prints and bright colors. The group also had a saxophone and trumpet player on the stage. They opened up with a crowd favorite and people were jumping and pushing into the barriers as Ulicny’s crazy tongue preached to them. The religious experiences I saw people having at Reptar were unbelievable. Clothing was being removed, shoulders were climbed, crowds were surfed, and people were slowly becoming insane.
The group played a lot of new music, which was received well by the crowd, and then “Rainbounce” started. Security rushed in to hold the crowd back and the performers were going crazy. Everyone was jumping and what felt like an earthquake to me was surprisingly just the passion of the incredibly devoted Athenians. The best part of the show (not really, but really) was the little girl sitting on the edge of the stage. She had huge noise canceling headphones but she was clapping and bouncing along to the beat and she looked absolutely adorable. Bassist Engelberger acknowledged her a few times, and she looked overjoyed. Reptar is a crazy-awesome band to see live, and if you’ve never done it you need to go find their next show ASAP. I saw a whole new side of this town that night and let me tell you, I’ve never been prouder to be an Athenian. – MF
An Evening at Ciné
Everyone knows that Athens is home to some incredible entertainers. We Athenians love a good, sweaty show and know how to find one. Nestled just on the edge of town, however, I stumbled into one of the nicest little shows I’ve seen in Athens in a long time.
It was Friday night, and we’d all just danced our brains out at Reptar when we made our way over to the local theater, Ciné. The lineup was posted, and we walked in to find Little Chief on the stage. When I say stage, I mean they were set up on one side of the room, and we were standing on the other. The vibes in the room were surreal. There were about 35-40 people there, and everyone was crowded towards the front of the cool, darkly lit room. It felt like we were in a little coffee shop or in that scene from Inside Llewyn Davis where they’re in the dark little open mic lounge (if you haven’t seen that movie, see it).
Little Chief had taken the stage moments before we entered, and the crowd was already getting into it. Apparently, what “began as a few friends wanting something more” turned into a full fledged cross-country tour for these guys. The six of them were on the stage strumming mountain-sounding melodies and singing raspy, soft harmonies, and after the complete insanity that was Reptar, I felt like I’d died and gone to heaven. Standing in the crowd, waving and singing along to the words I could pick up on, and I was loving every second of it. They reminded me of something, but I was not entirely sure what. I got little pieces of Mumford and Sons, then Of Monsters and Men, then Fleet Foxes, but no comparison quite fits. The group closed their set with a gorgeous rendition of “Hey Jude” that had the crowd hollering at the top of their lungs. The whole experience was weirdly spiritual in a good way.
The crowd took a minute to settle down after the boys get a roaring applause, and the next act began to set up. It was Sam Burchfield, usually a solo artist, with a backing band. The band geared up, and the night took a decidedly sexy turn. Burchfield started singing bluesy, soulful love songs, and I was so surprised. I’d never heard them before, and I certainly did not expect that voice to come out of him. The band was great as well; I think they should become a permanent feature if they aren’t already. They have this incredible guy on the keys who periodically pops in with a killer trombone solo. The whole show was like Ray LaMontagne on motown steroids, and it was awesome. The crowd got into a soulful cover of R.Kelly’s “Ignition (Remix),” and Burchfield told us he probably should have closed the show with that. We didn’t even care – we just “toot-toot”ed and “beep-beep”ed, and nothing could bring us down from that high.
These two artists secured my place at next year’s Ciné show, for sure. The evening was an incredible accident for me, and I wish I had gotten some t-shirts to express my affection. Hopefully the two groups will return to AthFest, or even Athens in general, soon, because I did not get my fix. Next time you go to a festival, try going to see an artist you’ve never heard of before – maybe, like me, you’ll find a new favorite. -MF
Kelly’s Favorites:
Favorite Venue: Georgia Theatre
Least Favorite Venue: Hull Street Stage
Favorite Live Performance: New Madrid
Best Band Discovered: Judah and the Lion
Favorite Athens Band: New Madrid
Favorite Non-Athens Band: Judah & the Lion
Overall Favorite Band: Judah & the Lion
Jasmin’s Favorites:
Favorite Venue: The World Famous
Least Favorite Venue: Outdoor Stages (lots of technical difficulties this weekend!)
Favorite Live Performance: Family and Friends
Best Band: Powerkompany
Favorite Athens Band: Woodgrains
Favorite Non-Athens Band: Roadkill Ghost Choir
Overall Favorite Band: Family and Friends!
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Reptar at AthFest 2014. Photo by Miranda Feneberger.
There is a common mindset that plagues general perceptions of trash. When large crowds gather, especially at our beloved music festivals, it becomes prevalent that when it comes to garbage and sustainability, the general population banks on the fact that someone else will – either because they volunteered, or because it’s their job – come after us and clean up any mess left behind. Although many individuals play their part in the reduce, reuse, and recycle, and should not be generally lumped in with those who don’t, somewhere it has been instilled in us that someone else will do the clean-up.
Unseen by many, the aftermath of a music festival can be shocking. Some have even gone as far as calling these festivals “environmental disasters.” The perceptions of how these gatherings are impacting the environment – let alone the behaviors of many attendees when it comes to waste management – have sparked the creation of many green/eco initiative programs at several music festivals, including Electric Forest’s Electricology program.
Electricology is the science of waste reduction through the use of sustainable products, composting, recycling, and most importantly, your participation. With the collaborative efforts of Electric Forest, The High Five Program, Gemini Production Solutions, The Sweaty Mouse and Zero Hero, Electric Forest’s sustainability efforts touch all aspects of the production and work towards significantly reducing the festival’s carbon footprint. In meeting attendees halfway and providing some incentive to help with the cleanup, the Electricology program uses “EcoPoints” to reward participants for their green actions.
The concept is simple: (1) Recycle by bringing your recycling and trash to designated EcoZones throughout the grounds of Electric forest, (2) Earn EcoPoints for your participation in helping keep the festival clean, and (3) Redeem by visiting one of two Electricology Stores – you can redeem sponsored prizes such as ENO Hammocks, Osprey Packs, bottles by Eco Vessel, sunglasses by Nothing But Shades, and solar batteries by Solar Go. It’s that easy.
In addition to the generous prizes, Electricology is providing a productive and informative message that has the potential to change mindsets and reset behaviors. “These [types of] programs can change somebody’s direction in life, and we’ve been fortunate enough to see it happen with us and a couple of people we have brought along the last couple of years,” said Rachel Wells, representative of Electricology and The High Five Program.
Whether by volunteering for the program, participating to earn EcoPoints or coming up to Electricology’s booths just to find out more information, “I think getting involved and daring to see what is left behind from your precious music festival is a big thing you can do to change your perspective,” Wells stated. “The more and more people that do that, we invite them to become part of this message and to make it a priority of conversation. Sustainability touches everything you do, whether you realize it or not. Everything we consume is made of something, and the likelihood that it can be made into something else is a pretty awesome, beautiful concept, and it’s something we need to get people excited about.”
In these past months leading up to the festival, Electricology has not only been building excitement over this year’s expanded green program, but they have also sparked some heated social media debates over what types of items are better left at home.
“The Forest has been super supportive, and [we have] generated some really interesting and [sometimes] controversial sustainable conversations,” Wells said. “People got really defensive about glow sticks, but it’s a really important thing to talk about, because it is a very interesting product that cannot be recycled, and it’s so prevalent in our scene. If we start talking about some of these issues, there’s no right or wrong answers, but just ideas and perspective – how do we use it? How can we reuse it? What can we do to replace it?”
In addition to the problematic glow sticks, those beautiful prayer lanterns that light up the night sky are such a problem for the surrounding community that Electricology has started a campaign to #losethelanterns. Wells explained that days after the festival, workers and volunteers have gone around to the surrounding community of Rothbury, MI, apologizing and picking up lanterns that have landed in nearby farmland. Although the lanterns are marketed as biodegradable and environmentally friendly, “they do not burn up in the atmosphere, unfortunately. They may be made out of biodegradable materials, but they will never breakdown in 100 years in a landfill or sitting a lone in a field like they lie,” Wells stated. “We’re adamantly saying #losethelanterns and leave your lanterns at home.”
This year, Electricology is prepared to handle the waste from 40,000 people, not only over the course of the four-day festival but also from the pre and post production. Their hopes are to see more attendees participating than previous years and to get their message out to as many individuals as possible. “[With Electricology], we have the opportunity to teach some people how to be a better festival-goer, to be a better member of their community and to participate,” Wells said. “We all share the responsibility of keeping this place awesome, clean and sustainable, and making it possible for us to have future gatherings like this here.”
To read Vinyl’s interview with Rachel Wells in detail, please see our Q&A below:
Vinyl Mag: How do we get out of the mindset that someone else will just clean up our trash?
Rachel Wells: For us personally, volunteering and having the opportunity to service some of the companies that service that idea (that someone will just come and clean up your trash after you leave) really changed our perspective. As a frame of reference, a guy we have worked with for many years – we run this program at the Lockn’ festival as well – wanted to run our social media, but we told him if you want to run our Twitter you have to pick up litter. He did the five post-day clean-up with us, and everyday he would go home and say, ‘okay, I get it now, I get it now.’ and I would be like, ‘no, I don’t think you do yet…’ and after five days of it, it has completely changed his life.
I think getting involved and daring to see what is left behind from your precious music festival is a big thing you can do to change your perspective. The more and more people that do that, we invite them to become part of this message and to make it a priority of conversation. Sustainability touches everything you do, whether you realize it or not. Everything we consume is made of something, and the likelihood that it can be made into something else is a pretty awesome, beautiful concept, and it’s something we need to get people excited about.
That is the first step in what we’re doing here; we’re getting people excited about prizes, but it’s for doing something awesome, so it’s a win-win situation. If we can get people talking about it, getting involved, they’ll start to learn their own ways in how they can contribute and bring something new to the table.
I think we’re really doing it this year with social media. The Forest has been super supportive and generated some really interesting and controversial (sometimes) sustainable conversations. People got really defensive about glow sticks, but it’s a really important thing to talk about, because it is a very interesting product that cannot be recycled, and it’s so prevalent in our scene. If we start talking about some of these issues, there’s no right or wrong answers, but just ideas and perspective- how do we use it? How can we reuse it? What can we do to replace it?
VM: What ways have you found are most successful in encouraging people that being green doesn’t just start when you arrive on the festival grounds, but it starts in advance with the packing an preparation of their arrival?
RW: This is going to be our third year bringing our program to EF, and we have done the post-fest clean up multiple times; without a doubt, a third of what we are picking up is packaging. You are never going to get that air mattress back in that box. It’s great to get some new gear and pack it all up and set up your site, but we’re asking you to leave the box at home. Ultimately, [leaving the packaging at home], isn’t just going to cut down the clean-up time we’ve got here; it’s also going to cut down on the labor that we have to hire to come when our working WET’s leave. Sometimes, there’s a few extra days of post production clean-up there that could have been cut if people had just left some of that stuff at home.
In the long run, that also equates to major costs that could be taken off next year’s overhead and maintain the ticket prices. That’s what I mean when I say sustainability touches everything. You can actually equate this to ticket prices, when you really get down to it.
The social media aspect of encouraging people to really think about these things before they get on site has really been huge and crucial. Our concept is prevention before reaction, so what better way to body that than really get to people through social media months in advance.
VM: How do you think the program has developed over the last couple of years, and where do you see this program going?
RW: We are very proud of how it has expanded over the years. The first year in 2012, we partnered with a recycling company, and we created this massive sorting zone, and it really touched a lot of kids and had many people return (to help out with the program) the following year, because they were pretty much knee deep in everyone’s trash, and they saw what people threw away, and they realized how important it was to get the message out. We were just in the venue that year, and we had great success with 13,000 people bringing their Eco points back to our one store location for prizes. We had a really clean venue, but the campgrounds were pretty crazy that year, and it took a couple of weeks to clean up, and the seagulls were just awful.
In 2013, we decided to expand the program and extend to the campgrounds. We expanded multiple EcoZones to be like your neighborhood recycling center. When you go to the bathroom in the morning, remember to take your campsite waste with you, and get some Eco points on the way back, and get some new trash bags for the day, and make it part of your routine of your services. We were actually out of the campgrounds in five days last year, as opposed to the two and a half weeks the previous year.
This year we have 30,000 Budweiser recycling bags to hand out, in addition to other bags, and we are bringing the program back to the venue, as well as the campgrounds with seven locations, and we’re also putting an EcoZone in the Good Life Village this year with [it] being bigger than ever this year. The Village is almost it’s own music festival, and we want those folks to have the opportunity to participate in the program, and they don’t usually come out to the general campgrounds very often, so it’s important that we bring that to them. We’re going to have two stores – one in the campground and one in the venue, and it’s really crazy how much it has expanded.
Every sponsor that has gotten involved with EF has been very supportive and have donated lots of prizes including special ENO Hammocks, Osprey Packs, Solar-Go batteries, Nothing But Shades; it’s just incredible. And it’s incredible for us that we get to provide a service for all these awesome brands that we like and affiliating them with a great cause.
Where we see this going…first and foremost, we hope it is successful this year and we see people picking up and participating more. If that’s the case, and we think it will be, then we want to see these kids take these ideas home and take them to other festivals they go to.
VM: Why do you think programs like this are important, if not vital, to the festival circuit in general, and why specifically to Electric Forest?
RW: EF is kind of a rare bird. I think everyone that is involved in the production and on the patron side of things has a very eclectic taste, have been to a lot of festivals, have thrown a lot of legendary events in different genres – so EF itself is like this ‘turducken’ of fun and programs and prizes. So our program fits right in there with just getting people engaged. These programs can change somebody’s direction in life, and we’ve been fortunate enough to see it happen with us and a couple of people we have brought along the last couple of years.
Something beautiful about these events is everybody feeling like they are a part of it. And that’s why we believe our program is important, because the trash is often forgotten, but it is so important. We have an opportunity to keep a foot in the fun and also keep a foot in the important services and the building of this. We want to make sure we’re teaching people how to be a better festival-goer, how to be the type of promoters we want to work with – it’s important, because it builds an alternate community than the one you may grow-up in, and that’s just remarkable to us.
VM: What are your top three tips to staying green at EF?
RW: (1) Try and bring sustainable material. If something can be reusable or recyclable, awesome! Food stuff (containers) – if it can’t be something that is reusable, try to make it compostable.
We ask you, in that moment, after that set is done, and your are basking in all the glory, stand there, and as that crowd clears, maybe just look around you, and make sure you haven’t left anything you consumed during that party, and make your way to one of our stations. We have hundreds of three-bin waste stations this year. So use our stations, and keep your areas clean.
Reward your neighbor for doing the same (keeping your areas clean). That is ultimately the idea of how our program works. That positive reinforcement from a stranger to a stranger rolls over to another stranger, and before you know it everyone feels good about doing what they should be doing. Remember to pay it forward.
VM: What are three things attendees should just leave home?
RW:
Packaging
Prayer lanterns- we spend days working with the community afterwards trying to pick these up and apologizing to the farmers after the lanterns land in their fields. They do not burn up in the atmosphere, unfortunately. They may be made out of biodegradable materials, but they will never breakdown in a 100 years in a landfill or sitting alone in a field like they lie. We’re adamantly saying #losethelanterns, and leave your lanterns at home.
Misconceptions about recycling, and negativity – we want people to be celebrating the idea of keeping it clean and not ragging on folks that aren’t – show them a better way to be.
I remember my first time. A little nervous, a bit of uncertainty and a natural high off of the excitement and anticipation. My mind was consumed with what I was about to experience and with questions about whether or not I was really prepared. Ready or not, we had arrived.
After a good 12 hours and two days on the road, we were finally creeping through the organized sea of cars entering the Double JJ Ranch in Rothbury, MI. The energy, the happiness and the pure bliss of everyone arriving at Electric Forest that day is nearly indescribable. Leading up to this weekend attending my first music festival – let alone my first Electric Forest – many friends found it hard to fully describe the Electric Forest experience. The most common depiction was always something along the lines of, “Just wait. You’ll see.”
During my initial walk-through of Sherwood Forest, it hit me. I remember turning to my best friend and with the biggest smile on my face just stating, “I get it. I finally understand.” In that moment, I understood why this festival is so special and why those who attend make the effort to return year after year.There’s something magical and freeing about being at Electric Forest that can only be fully appreciated after experiencing this festival first hand.
This year I’m returning to the forest and thought I’d share my own take on surviving Electric Forest for the first time.
AS A DISCLAIMER- This is in no way a complete or even necessary guide for all. I will be the first to admit I am a creature of comfort, and many of my suggestions will reflect that. I also encourage anyone to feel free to share their own suggestions.
GENERAL FESTIVAL TIPS
Expect Nothing and Be Surprised: Do not set expectations for yourself. Do not go in telling yourself this will be the best weekend of your life. Just let it happen, because it will naturally happen on its own. It’s good to keep a schedule in mind for what artists you want to see, but don’t follow it too strictly. You never know what you might experience or who you will meet by just going with the flow and not following a fully scheduled-out day.
Take Care of Each Other: Hopefully you are going with friends you can count on. Keep an eye on each other, know your own limits and know when to step in if you think someone is in need, whether it be friend or someone else at the festival. The med tent is your friend, and without sounding too mom-ish, it’s better to get help before it’s too late. Stay safe out there!
Water: Drink it. You do not realize how dehydrated you can become between all the walking you’ll be doing, all the sun you’ll be basking in and all the alcohol you probably will be consuming. My best advice: buy yourself a CamelBack or some other hydration pack. Having such a pack is easy to carry, and you’ll have water that’s easily accessible throughout the day. Electric Forest provides water refill stations throughout the campgrounds and within the festival venue.
Hammocks: Bring one or you’ll be disappointed you didn’t. ENO Hammocks are my preferred go-to, and if you forget, I’m sure reps will be on site and ever-willing to sell you one.
Cellphone Charging: Although there is a booth where you can charge your phone, for a fee, an external battery wouldn’t hurt to bring along.
Headlamp/Flashlight: Comes in handy for those walks at night back to your campsite or some adventures into the Porta Potties at night.
Gas & Jumper Cables: Make sure your tank is close to full before entering the festival and someone in your group has jumper cables. You do not want to be stranded when it comes time to leave the festival because of an empty tank or a dead battery.
CAMPING GUIDE
Camping With Your Friends: If you are meeting friends, and you all drove in separate cars, meet up before getting to the festival so you all drive in together. If you are not together when you enter, it will be extremely difficult (if not impossible) for you to camp next to each other.
Porta Potties: As a girl and first timer, I just did not think I would be able to survive an entire four days using such a facility. Trust me – you will survive. Electric Forest is one of those festivals that does a great job of scheduling regular cleanings for them, but the best time to go would be early morning right after they do the first cleaning of the day. Also, BRING YOUR OWN TOILET PAPER. I really cannot stress that enough.
Showers: Some people can go the four days without water and/or soap touching their bodies. I am not one of those people. In general camping, there will be shower trailers available, and many take advantage of going to the Gold Rush Water Park located at Double JJ ($20 per visit, includes shuttle to and from, a towel, and a shower). For a more personal experience and to avoid leaving your campsite, I suggest a camping shower. Also, wet wipes/ baby wipes can really come in handy.
Food: Electric Forest has great food options (delish taco truck, I’m lookin’ at you!). However, in the interest of keeping costs down, I’ve found that bringing a camping grill and splitting some food costs with friends is the way to go. Our food of choices are usually of the breakfast variety and easy to make such as quesadillas and brats. An awesome breakfast saved many of us some days.
Garbage: It’s quite appalling the amount of trash left behind by festival attendees at a camping festival. Don’t be one of those camps to leave tents, trash, etc. just because you know someone else will come along and clean up the mess you left. Electric Forest has been striving to become greener by supplying garbage bags and recycling options. Take advantage of the festival’s green efforts. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to leave the fireworks and Chinese/Prayer lanterns at home. Those beautiful lanterns that light up the night’s sky do not disappear and usually end up on properties outside of the festival grounds.
This week, we talk with Athens-based student and photographer, Kristin Karch. Kristin’s style – as well as her personality – is an equal balance of sweet and sassy. She’s mastered the art of style, but always with a certain coolness that says she can go with the flow; somewhere in between the girl next door and the girl all the bad guys want.
Below, we have her featured in an American Apparel dress, Marc Jacobs shoes and her all-American Polo sunglasses – the perfect ensemble for this sunny summer day.
Apart from her excellent wardrobe, Kristin’s work as a photographer is always impressive, poignant and refined. She seems to be able to capture a certain story through her pictures – some of which we’ve included below.
Read on to see collections of her favorite things and to find out about her inspirations. Also, scroll down to check out her exclusive playlist made especially for Vinyl Mag – enjoy!
1) How do you approach dress, and what influences your personal style?
I wear a lot of dresses, because it is so easy to make a whole outfit with just one piece. I am currently obsessed with printed babydoll dresses from American Apparel. Other then that, I like to balance solid staple pieces like high wasted jeans or crop tops with other pieces that are a little more fun. Even though I have a ton of clothes, I catch myself wearing the same five things a lot of the time.
2) What is your most treasured possession?
My most treasured possession is an old metal suitcase that my grandmother gave me. It is filled with old photographs from her childhood and also some 19th century photographs. This imagery has come to be a crucial part of my artwork and has also influenced the way I think about photography.
3) We know you’re an amazing photographer. Can you tell us a little about how you got into photography and about your creative process?
I got into photography around freshman year of high school when I bought my first 35mm camera. I continued to shoot film for a couple years until I got my first digital camera. I had a darkroom set up in my house and was pretty big on doing things completely analog. I shoot mostly digital now and do a lot of work with scanning. Vintage prints and film still have a large influence in my work.
4) What or who is influencing you and your work now?
Elverum from Mount Eerie has been a huge source of inspiration from the time I was 15. It is hard to explain, but his music is exactly the mood I feel when I make work. He produced a record called “Mount Eerie Pts. 6 & 7” that came with a large photo book, and when I look at it and listen at the same time, it creates this bizarre but incredible feeling.
5) If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I am lucky that I have been able to travel a lot for my age. Excluding all of the places I have already been, I would love to go to Iceland if I could go anywhere. I don’t know much about it, but pictures I have seen from there are strange, foggy and mysterious. All things I love.
Tito Carlo Piero Mazzetta is an aspiring Atlanta-based DJ whose personal style is truly unique. Coming from an artistic family with an international background, he has a laid back and confident air about him that shows through and makes him truly magnetic. Today we talk to him about what influences his style, the ways that music brings people together and the direction of Dance and Electro from his perspective. Make sure to scroll down for Tito’s special Vinyl Mag edition playlist, and be sure to check out the link to his Soundcloud for some originals by the man himself.
How would you describe your personal style? What or who influences and inspires you and the way you approach dress?
I would say my personal style is eclectic and somewhat eccentric. I know how to be formal but when I am dressing casually I like to a unique style that subtly sticks out. I love graphic tees with crazy graphics on it. For example, I have this one with a picture of the statue of Perseus holding up Medusa’s head. I try to mix urban and sophisticated styles when one talks about the whole range of my wardrobe.
Can you tell us a little bit about your music making background and process?
I had some piano lessons when I was younger and would always fiddle around on the various electric keyboards that my dad would give. I have been making electronic music since 2006. I was so obsessed with learning how to make music that I would just fidget on my computer for hours figuring the ins and outs of the rudimentary Garageband. I took an electronic music course in high school to further my knowledge and give me a good understanding of other more sophisticated software such as Logic. I currently use Ableton 9 live to create my music. The music creation process starts with playing around and making a melody or a bass line or a drumbeat from scratch and then I just build and add layers on top of that. It’s a very progressive and experimental process. I try to not use samples. If I do it would be for a vocal bit. I feel like music creation in its essence is very therapeutic.
Do you feel like your time living and traveling abroad has impacted or informed your taste in general and in music?
I would absolutely say that my time traveling and visiting friends/family abroad has impacted my music taste. It is the whole reason why I have such an obsession with all the different types of electronic music. I remember when I was around 14 and I was in Italy and I started actually getting interested in music and partying. I would hear this kind of music that I would never hear in the States. I would think to myself “What kind of music is that?” “Who is that artist?” . I love the way this makes me feel and how it makes large groups of other people feel. The vibes that encompassed the people around me when listening to this music was magical to me. At that point in time it started me on my never ending journey of music discovery. I started becoming hyper-obsessed with underground electronic music. I went on a journey through jungle, happy hardcore, liquid and 2-step drum & bass, techno, indie-dance, nu-disco, funky house, jackin house, acid house, hard house, breaks etc. I just kept hearing new stuff which would make me want to know and fathom everything about that genre and its corresponding sub genres. I started DJing as a way to show my deep obsession and appreciation with this kind of music. I got my first turntables in around 2007, and to this day I follow 200+ labels and dissect 50-200 tracks a day digging for new music for my next set whichever direction I decide to go in. Whatever vibe the crowd or setting I’m in is giving off- I have something to go with it. But I always stick to the underground. When I create my DJ set it is like telling a story from scratch. Every set I make I have 95% new or unused tracks I want my listeners experience to be special and unique with me. I want them to have to have a powerful experience and an amazing time dancing and grooving to tracks that they will only hear from me and nobody else that they go and see. Whether its soulful and melodic, or hard and techy, I always have a different story I can tell. To sum things up, It all started from the experiences I had spending my summers in Italy, and traveling around different parts of Europe.
How do you feel about the current state of Electro and Dance music as a genre in the United States- Do you think this genre is meant to stay an underground or niche movement, or do you believe it can be appreciated by a larger American audience?
I think that EDM as they call it these days is growing exponentially throughout the United States. New York, Miami, LA, Chicago, Detroit have always been associated with great places to hear amazing DJs in the electronic music world. Techno was actually created in Detroit and is the grandfather of a lot of the genres that you hear today. I think that what you hear in the commercial clubs of today is no longer underground and is already appreciated by larger audiences. Take a look at the main stage at Tommorowworld. It was packed to the max with all EDM DJs. Playing the same tracks over and over. EDM is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to electronic music. I don’t want to sound pretentious but the people that come to see real underground music usually have a more sophisticated taste in electronic music. They have a deeper understanding of the vibes. They have been on that journey and are now deep into underground. I have never met someone that goes backwards once they get the feel of an underground dance party. Whether it’s a hard techno warehouse party or a sophisticated invite only pool party atop a 5 star hotel. There is an underground vibe for everyone. It’s all a matter of whether people want to go on that journey of self-discovery or not to uncover partying at its quintessence. It is a place where DJ’s take the chance in the tracks they play, and do so as an art of self-expression rather than a soulless form of playing top 40 charts.
Well said, but lastly and most importantly- if you went the Daft Punk route and decided to perform with a mask or costume- we want to know, what would your altar ego/mask be?
Hmm I don’t know about this one. I think if I had to wear a piece of apparel it would be some 1940’s WW2 Airplane pilot Goggles.
*Check out the playlist that Tito made for us below!
There’s a reason I’ve always felt weird about putting on makeup in front of boyfriends. It’s as if the curtain has risen, and behind it I’m a little less perfect and a lot more vain – and I blame it on the frivolous associations that people have with makeup. But I’m putting my foot down. Makeup is art, and the wielders of the brushes are true artists, using their powders and creams like any painter would pigments. My proof? The spectacular makeup artists below.
Best All-Around: Pat McGrath
Damn, does this Brit have a killer lineup: she’s done makeup for Vogue, W and Harper’s Bazaar covers, and fashion shows from Prada and Dolce & Gabbana to Miu Miu. If that wasn’t enough, this year she was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire for her services to the beauty and fashion industries. It’s no surprise why: she can do it all, from tame, glowing skin at Dolce to unbelievably abstract, colorful eyes at Dior.
Pat McGrath DolcePat McGrath DiorPat McGrath Dior
The Mod Man: Tom Pecheux
As an avid lover of the 60s, the looks Tom Pecheux creates nearly strike me dead. They’re bold and graphic and look great on the pages of a magazine, no doubt the reason photographers like Patrick Demarchelier and Mario Testino are head over heels for his work. He’s also a fashion house favorite, from mod white eyes at Moschino to sassy pink liner at Derek Lam.
Tom Pecheux MoschinoTom Pecheux Derek LamTom Pecheux Anthony Vaccarello
The All-American: Gucci Westman
Some of America’s favorite girls next door have been made up by the legendary Gucci Westman: Drew Barrymore, Natalie Portman, and Cameron Diaz, to name a few. Her looks are stunningly gorgeous, yes, but also made to flatter the everywoman. A few key moments: sparkling bronze eyes at J. Mendel and a fresh take on the cat eye at Rag & Bone. Don’t worry, though, she’s not always tame – see her look for Dior below for proof.
Yes, she’s Swedish, and yes, she’s sexy, but the key here is that this talented blogger creates looks that inspire other women to look their sexiest, too. She’s a master of color, but the amazing thing to me is that she never, ever looks overdone. I’m obsessed with her sunset eyes and flawless lip color application. You’ve likely seen her creations splashed all over Pinterest without even realizing it! Check out her YouTube – she’s behind BangerBeauty – for some of the best tutorials you’ll see.
Linda HallbergLinda Hallberg
Linda Hallberg
The Scary Swede: Sandra Holmbom
Sorry for the Swedish obsession, but I couldn’t resist including Sandra Holbom, one of the most incredible artists out there. Take one look at her blog, Psycho Sandra, and watch as she transforms the human face into her canvas. She’s recreated scenes from Alice in Wonderland and made artful use of abstract patterns on her eyelids, and even regularly morphs herself into various animals. Plus, she’s a master of special effects makeup, the motive for the “scary” label. For your awe and amazement, see the collage of some of her best eye looks below.
Thank you for stumbling onto Vinyl and reading this article. Seriously, I’m in the midst of finals hell and writing this has given me SUCH an excuse to procrastinate just a little bit longer. Aside from all the studying, though, I’ve got one other worry on my mind: managing to stay fashionable and comfortable at the same time. I mean, who wants to squeeze into skinny jeans and stress over cleavage when you’re sitting in the library for hours on end? But if, like me, you refuse to go all-out frump, there’s no need to fret – just find inspiration from these cool-yet-cozy options below.
The Cool Crop Combo
Let the world know how you really feel about studying with this comfy crop top. Add easy cutoffs and fresh white sneaks for walking from final to final. Slip on a bright beanie to cover that bedhead – it’s cool, none of us had time to shower.
(Topshop shorts, Forever 21 top and beanie, and Converse sneakers)
The Bad Gal Combo
I’m constantly building fashionable outfits I can still relax in around my leather leggings. SO comfortable, and they look flawless with oversize tees. Add a printed flat for flair – I like cheetah – and a gold necklace, and you’re set.
(Helmut Lang leggings, True Decadence top, Isaac Mizrahi shoes, and First People necklace)
The Nature Girl Combo
May sound crazy to wear a dress to finals, but hey, I can’t argue with no wedgies. White cotton is so loose and breathable, and with a few key accessories, can look totally chic. Mix a few bright colors – I love the blue and orange mix here – and cinch your waist with a belt if you feel so inclined.
(Acne dress, H&M belt, Steve Madden shoes, and ABS by Allen Schwartz bangles)
There’s no doubt about it: the wavering weather patterns are over, and now it’s smooth sailing through months of unstoppable heat. Well, maybe “smooth” isn’t exactly the right word, at least when it comes to our makeup. This time of year, insane sunshine equals sweat equals cake-y foundation, running eye makeup and faded lipstick. Thankfully, I’m starting to finally feel like we live in the future – beauty brands are seriously KILLING it in terms of water and sweat proof products. I’ve tried out all of the ones here, and feel 100% confident backing their ability to keep you gorgeous during each and every cannonball and sweat avalanche.
This concealer is so good that I say skip foundation on the hottest days and just apply this on problem areas and under the eyes. It’s said to stay for an unbelievable 12 hours, and won’t do that obnoxious thing where it mixes with sweat and pools in lines under the eyes. In conclusion, you should probably buy this year-round, but it’s especially valuable in the summer.
NYX Rouge Cream Blush
In all honesty, the vast majority of the NYX line is pretty damn good at staying put, especially when you consider how cheap it is, but this blush is especially so. It’s easy to apply and blends well, and as it’s a cream formula, will absorb into the skin rather than sitting on top of it. What does this mean for you? You’ll still look radiant after a long day in the sun.
Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24HR Eyeshadow
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: this is one of my Holy Grail beauty products, hands down. Without even using an eyeshadow primer, this stuff seriously LASTS, no creases, no fading. And bonus points for the massive amount of colors to choose from! My favorite? Bold Gold.
Urban Decay Cannonball Ultra Waterproof Mascara
Think of all the obnoxious things about wearing mascara in the water or in sweltering weather. We’re talking crunchy lashes and flaking, not to mention raccoon eyes. I kid you not, this mascara solves it all. I dare you to don it in the pool – step out and your lashes will be just as thick and bold as before, and even super soft. Run, don’t walk, to pick some up.
Lime Crime Velvetines
I’m Kate Foster, and I’m a Velvetine addict. Seriously, this stuff comes in six shades now, and I have every single stashed in my purse for a touchup at a moment’s notice. It applies easily like a gloss, but dries to a perfect, gorgeous matte in just a few seconds. Do all the smooching and munching that you desire, because this stuff’s not going anywhere.
Make Up For Ever Aqua Seal
Want one product that does it all? Mix this with all the stuff you’ve already got and apply. Done.
In a cosmic clash of paint, ink and fabric, all of my dreams are coming true. Why might that be, you ask? Because at this very moment, my three favorite things – writing, fashion and art history – are colliding in one story. Inspired by the fun I had creating fashion collages based off of trend-setting literary characters, I decided to do the same with some of history’s most renowned paintings. Just one word of caution: don’t be afraid. You might look like a walking Picasso, but, hey, how cool is that?
The Starry Night
“It often seems to me that night is still more richly colored than the day, having hues of the most intense violets, blues and greens. If only you pay attention to it you will see that certain stars are lemon yellow, others pink or a green, blue and forget-me-not brilliance.” – Vincent van Gogh
(Body Central dress, Max and Chloe necklace, Milly clutch, and Barbara Bui shoes)
Guernica
“What do you think an artist is? …He is a political being, constantly aware of the heartbreaking, passionate or delightful things that happen in the world, shaping himself completely in their image. Painting is not done to decorate apartments. It is an instrument of war.” – Pablo Picasso
(McQ Alexander McQueen sweater, Debenhams skirt, Ssense clutch, and Miu Miu shoes)
The Kiss
“All art is erotic.” – Gustav Klimt
(Dolce & Gabbana dress, ASOS floral crown, Fossil clutch wallet, and Kori shoes)
Water Lilies
“It took me time to understand my water lilies. I had planted them for the pleasure of it; I grew them without ever thinking of painting them.” – Claude Monet
(Ted Baker dress, Stella McCartney blazer, Charlotte Olympia clutch, and Jonak shoes)
In addition to the generous prizes, Electricology is providing a productive and informative message that has the potential to change mindsets and reset behaviors. “These [types of] programs can change somebody’s direction in life, and we’ve been fortunate enough to see it happen with us and a couple of people we have brought along the last couple of years,” said Rachel Wells, representative of Electricology and The High Five Program.
