Kayla Shai

Imagery vs. Artistry

October 31, 2011 By Kayla Shai Leave a Comment

Kayla Shai

“Love the art in yourself, not yourself in the art.” This quote has been embedded into the minds of young artists who practice theatre. It came from the eminent practitioner, Stanislavski. He challenged the world of theatre, by creating a method that increased the dramatic process or artistry of each character presented in a play. He teaches the complexity of what it takes to be a true artist of acting. Sonia Moore then took all the elements, notes, and teachings of Stanislavski and combined them all into an accessible book, The Stanislavski System. Throughout this source of media, the actor can read about how to increase the believability of each character by focusing on the emotional memory, physical actions, imagination, concentration, rhythm, and the total essence a character might carry. Stanislavski really pushed the idea of a trained actor ultimately reaching success.

Unfortunately, time has changed since Stanislavski in 1930. Imagery and artistry has been in a complex battle since then. In 1930, true artistry reigned and was fought for. Now in 2011, people are literally bending over backwards to be famous – to provide an image for themselves. People stand in long lines to be seen, and more than half do not have any training or craft whatsoever. They only come with this vision of stardom in their head. Then the industry helps this ill form of illusion, by stating, “if you have the look you’re in. If you don’t, you’re out.” I know this from experience.

These thoughts of imagery vs. artistry entered my mind after hearing a song by Christofer Drew. Not many people know of him, but he was an artist falling into the same line of thoughts. I drew an analysis based on his song, Sellout. Drew was an independent artist for the longest time, allowing his unique melody and poetry lure in a huge demographic of audience. When he got signed years later into a record deal, he finally got to enter successfully into the music industry. While living his dream, he noticed quickly that true artistry and training has nothing to do with the entertainment field anymore. It has all to do with the imagery associated with that specific person. He lays it out clearly with his song, Sellout. Some of the lyrics pulled from the song include the following: “I sold myself to the Corporation. I got a problem with the way you think that you can program me like a damn machine. Fuck this scene. I’m sick of imagery instead of artistry. I’m sick of poets working part time jobs, while pissy people pick and choose the stars.” These are just a few of the lyrics borrowed from this overall rebellious song against the media and also against the people that had promised him a successful future. Sure he gets a lot of money, but in the process it seems like the imagery had suppressed the artistry that naturally wanted to flow from his soul.

Due to this, I argue that fame keeps artistry in bondage and keeps it from being free. I will not stand against the entire entertainment industry for this problem, because I know that there are still some left who believe in the power of artistry. I stand against imagery and the illusions that put artists in a bind, while well-constructed images of people fill the television screens. Then I stand up for the unheard voices, the unheard music, and the unheard performances that could bring a powerful divine nurturing to America and across the world. Artistry may loose in the end, and when that happens, my friends, the entertainment industry will loose value and will eventually die out. That will be a sad day for a lot of truly talented people, and will also redefine the way we perceive dreams forever. Love the art in yourself, not yourself in the art.

Filed Under: The Arts

DOGGIE STYLE ATLANTA

October 16, 2011 By Kayla Shai Leave a Comment

Kayla Shai

It’s been said, that a dog is a man’s best friend. When a relationship ends, they snuggle close to remind you of forever. When you come home from work overstressed, they are the first to greet you at the door with kisses. They lick away each negative thought before it crosses your mind, and they remind us what playing or having fun feels like. When they wag their tail, you know you make them happy. When they lay their snout upon your leg, you know they care and need you. When they choose to look into your eyes, you know they call you friend.
Most would say that having a friend like this is something to be cherished, relished, and esteemed. It’s as if these glorious creatures were meant to be our most blessed companions. As our two legs maneuver through history, a set of four trot diligently beside us. Therefore they truly are a Godsend.
Knowing that they are so special to us, wouldn’t we take the utmost care of them? Sure we could do the cliché routine: feed them, water them, or take them on walks. But if we wanted to step outside of the cliché and give them what they deserve, what would that look like?
Becoming an active client at Doggie Style Atlanta may be the exact thing they deserve. It’s a hip and trendy grooming salon and boutique that will send any pooch away with their tail a-wagging. The dog can get a bath, a haircut, a smooth shave, cleaned ears, nails trimmed and painted, blueberry facials and get their hair dyed. The options and styles are endless. Doggie Style Atlanta is all about making your little pooch perfect for you.
Roxanne Spence, the lovely owner of Doggie Style Atlanta, represents her business with a sincere heart of gold. It isn’t surprising to see such a profitable business being run by a young woman, when this woman is full of motivation, determination, and diligence. Come to find out, creating Doggie Style Atlanta has been a dream come true for Roxanne. She first realized that this was the path she wanted to take when she was only 5 years old. She borrowed her Aunt’s shepherd mix dog, lipstick, perfume, and scissors. With these items mixed together, it turned into trouble, but it also led to this dream in creation. When she was old enough, she began working for a groomer, working for the vet, going to school, and tending bar on the side. Roxanne was doing whatever she could in order to achieve her goal. That goal was to run her own grooming business, and in 2007, it finally came true. She had raised enough money to buy out an abandoned house in Hapeville, Georgia. She believes Hapeville is a perfect destination because it’s close to both the airport and Atlanta. She renovated it, made it her own, and then quickly opened the doors for business. She started from scratch, and pushed through her trials. She describes the whole process as, “working my tail off.” Then of course coming up with the catchy name, “Doggie Style Atlanta,” is a story of its own that every client should hear.
Basically, Doggie Style Atlanta is a second home to Roxanne. When I asked her why she got up every morning, she simply stated, “I love my job, and I love my puppy kisses.” She enjoys being able to make each dog feel special, especially the new ones who have been brought in from neglect. Roxanne states, “I feel so blessed, like it was meant to be.” She also thanks her husband for always pushing her and never letting her quit.
At Doggie Style Atlanta each pet can be promised special treatment, as Mrs. Roxanne plays with her creativity. Her work is no joke either, considering the fact that Doggie Style Atlanta has been voted as Top Groomer in the Atlanta Magazine-publications of 2009 and 2010. Not to mention, already nominated again for 2011. And from the collection of pictures, you can see you won’t be sorry. She reassures you, “Your pets will be treated the way my pets would be treated.” Based on our conversation, her dogs are definitely her best friends. So bring your precious ones to Doggie Style Atlanta so that they have the opportunity to share externally the beauty they already harbor on the inside.

Contact info: 404-316-0676; 820 Custer Street, Hapeville, GA 30354

Filed Under: People and Business

1…2…3 Strikes You’re Out

June 30, 2011 By Kayla Shai Leave a Comment

Kayla Shai

It’s the bottom of the ninth, and the crowd is roaring. Hotdogs, popcorn, and peanuts are being passed fan to fan. The greatest diamond is no longer in the sky, but is rather found in the good ole’ orange dirt. The crowd leans in as the shade of the batter’s bat enters the plate. The bases are loaded, and a moment of anxiety and courage overtake the nine players rocking back and forth on the field. The pitcher is cautious of every move he makes, and the desired destination is anywhere but home. Half the crowd cringes as the bat hits the ball, but they instantly stand in awe as the ball is – going, going, and gone. In that moment, the stadium either cheers or boos as the players place their victory under the field of lights.

Baseball has been a great American pastime since the 19^th century, and the game still needs valuable support from Americans today. Turner Field, otherwise known as the “Home of the Braves,” is the perfect landmark to contribute to that support. It prides itself in having a state-of-the-art design for future baseball fields, not only because of its beautiful landscape, but also because of its family-friendly entertainment system. Most of all, though, the Braves need Georgia’s familiar voices roaring and performing their notable tomahawk chop.

So, bring your friends and family to Turner Field of Atlanta to join this incredible experience of rooting on the home team.

As a matter of fact, check your schedules for Independence Day (July 4). The famous day in history that America declared its independence can be a special day to celebrate at Turner Field. The Atlanta Braves will be going head-to-head with the Colorado Rockies at 7pm.

Let the intense game of baseball remind you of what it means to be a free American. Lift your hands as a united nation, scream at the top of your lungs without permission, and wear the color of your choice. Then, as a victory is won, fireworks will envelope the night sky. Fireworks of all shapes, sizes, and colors will become the new star display for that night. These fireworks won’t be shot because of the winning score, but they will be shot because of a winning nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Atlanta Braves Stock Photo

Don’t strike out on the fourth of July by missing out on a great game. This game will be coated with freedom, and the last thing you want is to be stuck in your room twirling your thumbs. You need to be with the brothers and sisters of this united nation. Why not share another great moment in history under the memorable field of lights?

Filed Under: Uncategorized

A Fully Flavored Life

May 5, 2011 By Kayla Shai 4 Comments

Kayla Shai

Life can be dull without the flavor of color. Sometimes life gets so stressed and busy, that we forget that there is a world full of creation beyond our I-pad or cell phone. Distractions keep us from experiencing the tastes, smells, or feelings hidden in the color around us. The creation is ready to be admired, and your imagination is ready to be spurred! So visit Callaway Gardens! Callaway Gardens, full of majestic sites and adventurous activities, is located in Pine Mountain, Georgia. It is about 2 hours south of Atlanta, depending on your choice of speed. Not only will Callaway Gardens provide flavor to your life – it provides the spice.

Photo courtesy of Callaway Gardens

The first thing noticed when entering Callaway Gardens, is its landscape. The land is so pure, without blemish. Trashisn’t thrown into the ground, only beauty. Each flower, tree, bush, animal, or form of water has its place on those grounds. A rush of aroma fills your nostrils, and when you follow this aroma, you are led into the gardens of flowers of every kind and color. There isn’t racism or discourse among the flowers, only peace and harmony. The bushes are shaped into a variety of designs, like sculptures displayed in an art show. As a matter of fact, the entire land is like a piece of art. It is art sprayed with warm colors and cool temperatures, sharing every high on its hills and every low in its lakes.

Callaway Gardens prides itself on taking care and keeping up with their grounds. Their mission is to provide an Earth changing message. The Ida Cason Callaway Foundation is a non-profit organization that owns Callaway Gardens, and it is their mission to make a difference in the upkeep of the environment, by giving their participants access to

Photo courtesy of Callaway Gardens

conservation, education, and land stewardship. So when attending their piece of art, you can be guaranteed to have your jaw dropped and your eyes expanded upon this vast beauty. Callaway Gardens is the perfect place for anyone to visit, and get the experience of a lifetime.

It is a place for lovers. Grab the hand of the one you love, and stroll beside the rainbow of flowers lined against paths. Grow together just as the plants around you grow. Then follow the gently flowing stream into the woods and find the beautiful Ida Cason Callaway Memorial Chapel. The windows are stained glass, and with the sound of the forest and organs playing in the background, it is the perfect place for marriage arrangements or embracing the love that you have shared. Take pictures; for you are guaranteed the most memorable background to each shot you take.

Photo courtesy of Callaway Gardens

It is a place for friends. Make memories that people will be jealous of. Roll down the windows of your car, and sing tunes while you drive through the grounds. Laugh and goof-off together as you hike the nature trails. The trail ranges from 1.5-1.6 miles long, so get fit and healthy by walking the trails more than once. Feel free to allow your conversation to wander as you move from one scene to the next. Guys can visit the Pioneer Log Cabin, and imagine what it would be like to step into the 1830s as a fully pioneered man. Ladies can sunbathe under the open skies at the Robin Lake Beach and try to interpret the clouds that blow across.

It is a place for family. Callaway Gardens knows the value of family, and wants to share this value with others through their space. Spend time with your parents, and spend time with your kids. Unload the bikes and race each other down the trails of the Discovery Bicycle Trail. It is a 10-mile trail, so pack water and take stops along the way. The stops won’t be boring though, it will be exciting to see all the attractions of wildlife and exotic flowers around. Go to the John A. Sibley Horticultural Center, and be reminded of what splendor life can hold, as the kids marvel at the 22-foot indoor waterfall. Attend the Birds of Prey Show, and be startled and surprised as eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls swoop over your head. Then use the rest of the day to splash and play in the Robin Lake Beach. Take your time as you invest in the many activities there: such as mini-golf or paddleboats. Also be sure to bring your family back for Christmas to be thrilled at the display of colorful lights, enjoy apple cider, and meet Santa Claus.

Photo courtesy of Callaway Gardens

Basically, it is a place for everyone. There is always something new, adventurous, or exciting to indulge in. My personal favorite memory taken from Callaway Gardens was being in the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center. My face lit up, and I was astounded by the fact that there could be so many different butterflies. I don’t remember seeing one butterfly that had the same designed wings. Every butterfly was unique in its own way. In that moment I wanted to be like Cinderella. I extended arm hoping that one of these divine creatures might land upon my finger, and to my surprise one did. I gently moved my arm down towards my eyes. He was a nice fellow colored with abstract brown and black designs painted on the wings. For that one moment before he flew away, I felt connected with nature. I felt connected on a personal and divine level, to be so intertwined with God’s creation. When I left Callaway Gardens, it wasn’t just a get-away; it was an experience of a lifetime. Just as the environment around me was growing, I was growing too. And that was a beautiful feeling to add to the beauty that surrounded me.

Photo courtesy of Callaway Gardens

So don’t allow your job, or your school, the stress, or demands of life keep you from embracing the colorful flavor Callaway Gardens can provide. Sometimes the imagination dies off as we move through life, and this imagination needs to be rejuvenated. So go visit Callaway Gardens! If you have gone, go again to be reminded of what it’s like to stand before creation’s artwork. After all, you don’t want your life to be dull, so flavor it with color.

Filed Under: Georgia Highways