Art Star: International Model and Fine Artist, Alek McLean

1. Please introduce yourself.  My name is Patasha 'Alek' McLean and I'm an international model and award winning visual artist.

2. What do you create? Art. That's the best and simplest way to describe what I do. Let's say ... if you can visualize it, I can make it a reality.

3. How did you get started on your create path? I started as a young child; at the age of two. My family thought my behavior was not one that was "normal" when art was involved so they signed me up for everything artistic you could think of; even performing arts. 

4. What inspires you to create? I'm inspired daily, whether by experiences or others' stories, nature, random thoughts etc. I always feel the need to create something bigger than my previous creation so I always try to outdo myself.

5. How have you been able to make a living by being your creative, authentic self? I'd say this to the modern man, don't ever think that settling is an option. Find your target markets and aim your business towards them. If you feel stifled creatively then do personal projects that will allow you to create outside of the box by also market yourself to gain more clients.

6. What new projects are your working on? I am currently working on my 's.e.l.f by self' art exhibition in Miami. S.E.L.F means Someone Everyone Loves Forgetting. This exhibition is about the individual and how they may get caught up in other people not take the time to care about themselves. I took the role of being the main subject, dissected my feelings about how I view myself and the things I may have forgotten about me and just expressed that on wood, using paint, ink and lacquer.

7. How can people find and support your work?

Instagram: @i.am.rightbrainactive

Instagram: @alekmclean

www.behance.net/rightbrainactive

www.facebook.com/ rightbrainactive

Press Release: UNDERWRAPS, First Global Modeling Agency Representing Muslim Female Fashion Models Launches During New York Fashion Week

NEW YORK, NY--  January 24, 2012—Nailah Lymus, the Brooklyn-based fashion designer behind Amirah Creations , announced today that she will launching a modeling agency during New York Fashion Week.  Known for breaking barriers as a Muslim female fashion designer, Lymus has decided to extend her brand and make history by launching UNDERWRAPS (http://underwrapsagency.carbonmade.com/), the first global agency representing Muslim female fashion models.  UNDERWRAPS’ roster will debut in a fashion showcase presented by Amirah Creations on February 11^th. 

“As a Muslim Women who has also worked in the Fashion Industry, I observe a heavy Muslim influence in all areas of fashion,” Nailah Lymus said. “Designers, photography, editorials all displaying inspirations from Muslim fashion. I feel there is a need to shine the light on Muslim women who have been some of the originators of trend setting modest fashion for years. I'm bringing Muslims to mainstream-- covered is the new couture.”

Islam has had a strong influence in the fashion industry for years with stylings gracing such coveted magazine covers as Vogue as well as providing inspiration for noteworthy collections including Victoria Beckham’s Fall/Winter 2012 line. Islamic models have also brought diversity to the catwalk including recent stars Hanaa Ben Abdesslem (Tunisian) and Hindi Sahlial (Moroccan). Representing a seasoned roster, each model brings a modest yet genuine professional attitude combined with an ethical sensibility that “works.” UNDERWRAPS is creating a fusion of inclusion—marrying the best of both the Muslim and non-Muslim worlds.

The Amirah Creations show featuring the models from UNDERWRAPS will take place on February 11^th beginning at 6:30pm at Rare by FS Charlie, 317 Church Street in Tribeca (New York city). To view the official invite, visit www.underwraps.eventbrite.com.

For press and VIP inquiries, please contact Tamara Walker at 347.827.1284 or via email at tamara@sienamediagrp.com.

ABOUT NAILAH LYMUS

Nailah Lymus, a clothing and accessory designer since 2004 has nourished her deep hunger for all things fashion at the youthful age of seven using her God given talent to accentuate the natural allure of the woman. Being a self taught designer equipped Ms. Lymus with all of the poise needed to showcase her gift amongst more seasoned designers. Recently showing at NYC Fashion Week 2011 and featured in Couture Fashion Week 2011 Lymus has established her name in the Fashion industry. Now combining both of her passions (modesty and fashion) Lymus is launching the FIRST Muslim Female Model Agency merging the best of both worlds.

ABOUT UNDERWRAPS 

UNDERWRAPS is the FIRST global agency representing the Muslim Female Fashion Model. A seasoned roster, each model brings a modest, genuine, smart, savvy, professional attitude, combined with an ethical sensibility that makes "it work".

Influencing the fashion industry for years, Muslim fashion has graced the covers of coveted magazines such as Vogue and has been providing inspiration for noteworthy designers from early on. UNDERWRAPS is creating a fusion of Inclusion—creating the best of both worlds.

For more information, visit www.underwrapsagency.carbonmade.com

ABOUT RARE NYC 

Originally founded in 2003 by celebrity stylist Ruth Roche, RARE is one of New York City’s premiere salons, catering to clients who dare to be bold. Today, the torch has been passed on to principal stylist and new owner Fatima Sheikh, who recently merged her brand, FS Charlie, with RARE. Located in the heart of Tribeca, RARE offers and extensive menu of hair and beauty services. In addition to their array of services, RARE works closely with the city’s creative community to produce distinct projects with fashion, music and lifestyle driven brands. For more information about RARE, visit www.rarenyc.com

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Pretty as a Picture

Louise Donegan, Jessica White, Lindsay Ellingson, and Linda Vojtova

Photo: Mimi Ritzen Crawford

On Saturday night, Russell Simmons hosted the twelfth annual Art for Life Garden Party at his East Hampton estate. This year’s theme, “The Zen of Giving,” featured a charity auction benefiting Rush Philanthropic (Simmons's foundation focused on providing disadvantaged urban youth with arts exposure) ensued. After dinner, a very svelte looking Jennifer Hudson took to the stage in a Chanel. Read the full story at Vogue.com.