New York Said

Amon Focus hosts a conversation with filmmaker Rico James, who provides an intimate look into the life and legacy of the late influential street artist, TMNK. Known worldwide for his transformative impact on urban art, TMNK or 'The Me Nobody Knows,' remained an enigma until his passing in 2016. Rico’s recollections offer not only a tribute to TMNK's life and work, but also a testament to the indomitable spirit and passion of an artist who continues to inspire years after his departure. As the conversation unfolds, the audience is treated to candid revelations about TMNK's struggles, triumphs, and unwavering commitment to social justice. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/nobody-was-here-rico-james-and-preserving-the-legacy-of-tmnk

In this episode, we delve into the life and work of Renda Writer, a poet, muralist, and hip-hop enthusiast who has dedicated his life to uniting communities through art and culture. Discover his philosophy on personal growth, his love for language, and the importance of connections in the world of arts. Don't miss the chance to learn more about Renda's World Peace Mural Tour and Grateful for Hip-Hop projects. Be inspired by Renda's remarkable journey and witness the transformative power of words. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/the-journey-of-renda-writer-a-testament-to-the-power-of-words-and-art

In an interview with Amon Focus, conceptual artist Cj Hendry discussed her upcoming tenth solo show, Plaid. The exhibition features hyper-realistic pencil drawings and a unique heuristic format, including the immersive Plaidground installation, a 5,000 sqft adult playground. Hendry's work aims to evoke nostalgia and connect visitors with their inner child while exploring the intersection of literal and conceptual art. Plaid challenges the boundaries of hyperrealism and public art, showcasing Hendry's versatility as an artist. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/art-and-play-collide-cj-hendrys-plaid-experience

Discover the story of Joffy Top Tiger, a rising powerhouse in the hip hop world. Learn about his origin story, collaborations, and innovative projects, and find out why he's becoming one of the most sought-after artists in the industry. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/joffy-top-tiger-overcoming-adversity-and-building-a-legacy-through-music

It's another exciting day on the podcast as we welcome back Comfort Crusade. With his signature blend of chilled hip hop, lo-fi, and Rhodes-filled house music, Comfort Crusade's unique sound has gained recognition worldwide, captivating audiences with its ability to transport them to far-off musical destinations. Don't miss out on what he has in store for us today - it's no surprise why Comfort Crusade has become a favorite among our listeners. Show Notes: Comfort Crusade: The Evolution Continues

In his latest project, Violet Skies: Volume I, Jahan Nostra combines modern content and concepts with a vintage, raw hip-hop sound. The eclectic collection of production and featured artists create a well-rounded project with no wasted space. Nostra's slick lyricism and thought-provoking content are elevated by powerful sonic backdrops, taking listeners on a journey through sound and feeling. The respect Nostra has for hip-hop culture is evident in every record he's dropped, and Violet Skies is no different. With 50 years of foundation setting the stage, Nostra showcases a keen understanding of the culture he's stayed so dedicated to. View Show Notes: New York Said

Home. It’s where the heart is, where we feel safe and secure. And in New York City, home takes on a whole new meaning. The Museum of the City of New York is launching its new contemporary photography triennial, New York Now: Home, on March 10th. This inaugural exhibition explores the different ways in which we make homes in and around the five boroughs. Co-curated by Thea Quiray Tagle and Sean Corcoran, this event marks the beginning of the Museum’s centennial year programming. As the world center of photography, New York City has inspired generations of image-makers. And as the storyteller of the city, the Museum of the City of New York has collected and exhibited the best of this work for a century. With New York Now, they’ll continue this tradition, engaging with themes and issues relevant to New York and the experience of urban life. Lens-based work has a unique power to connect the artist, subject, and viewer in a way that’s unlike any other medium. Through this and future installations of New York Now, the Museum will showcase both established and emerging talents, reflecting a range of perspectives. ~~~ Opens March 10, 2023 Show Notes: New York Said

Paola Zamudio is an award-winning interior designer and creative director based in New York, known for her innovative and unique approach to design that seamlessly blends art, culture, and functionality. She is the founder of npz studio+ and has worked on a variety of projects ranging from commercial spaces to residential homes, with clients that include Bell Works, Somerset Development, and Quantum Investments. Paola is passionate about sustainability and the use of meaningful objects, plants, materials, and colors in her designs, and is a strong advocate for tapping into all the senses to create truly immersive and engaging spaces. In this interview, we will delve deeper into her design philosophy, her creative process, and what inspires her to create spaces that spark joy and bring people together. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/breaking-barriers-in-design-a-discussion-with-paola-zamudio-of-npz-studio

Juan and Amon are back to pontificate, philosophize and reminisce on the year 2022 Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/2022-year-end-wrap-up/

On a walk through Central Park, Stay Sain talks growing up in Philly, his experiences in West Africa and chess strategies. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/walking-to-stay-sain/

Artist Shantell Martin’s signature black and white lines have led her to exciting and very successful collaborations that highlight both her work and those of the brands she loves. In her newest collab - Shantell x HOEK - Shantell designed super fun pieces with her iconic pen, from coasters to coffee tables to wall art, to spread throughout any eco-conscious home. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/shantell-martin-shares-how-she-fused-her-signature-lines-with-hoeks-transformable-furniture

Vikki Tobak explores the intricate dialogue between culture, adornment, and identity in her latest book, Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/vikki-tobak-ice-cold-interview/

TTK is educating and inspiring the next generation of black creatives with his new documentary film, JUST LIKE ME. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/ttk-harris-is-educating-and-inspiring-the-next-generation-of-black-creatives

Listen to a short but in-depth conversation with Artist and Art Critic, Ricky Amadour about the 2022 Whitney Biennial. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/2022-whitney-biennial-talk-with-art-critic-ricky-amadour

Larry and Sonia Wright Perform a Masterpiece in the Union Square Subway Station Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/larry-and-sonia-wright-perform-a-masterpiece-in-the-union-square-subway-station

Director Jay Rosenblatt shares some insight on creating his Oscar-Nominated Short Documentary, ‘When We Were Bullies’ with Amon Focus. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/director-jay-rosenblatt-on-his-oscar-nominated-short-documentary-when-we-were-bullies

From being a Make A Wish kid to growing up to have twins of her own, Savannah doesn't look at being born HIV+ as a curse bestowed upon her. In this talk Savannah shares her journey and what she has learned along the way. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/born-with-hiv-savannahs-story/

An in-depth conversation about the importance of On Air Fest advancing the culture of audio with founder, Scott Newman. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/how-on-air-fest-is-advancing-the-culture-of-audio-with-scott-newman/

It's been a minute. Happy New Year. It's snowing outside. It's cold in New York. So you know what that means, it's time to release another new episode of "Sounds of the City". This summer I went back to my old neighborhood in Southside Jamaica, Queens to record the fireworks. I recorded about four hours of the festivities that night, and then edited it down into a nice 25. It's not boom, boom, boom consecutively throughout the whole episode but it is s an orchestration. If you really want to get into this episode, I highly suggest you go somewhere quiet. Close your eyes, put on some headphones and let your imagination be your guide. I'm out of here. I love y'all. Peace. -Amon Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/fireworks-in-the-hood/

Time is clearly riding on a bullet train because Juan and I are here yet again to sum up another beautiful year of ups and down. Can you believe we've been doing these wrap up episodes for 5 years now? Crazy. Thank you for rocking with us and supporting NEW YORK SAID. Happy New Year! Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/2021-year-end-wrap-up/