KhemFest: Newark's Pop Culture Jewel
Joseph Watkins: Da Watcha
In the heart of Newark, NJ, between Springfield and Bergen Avenue, Khemfest, played host within the city’s famed theater, The Multiplex-12. For these two days, I found myself in the epicenter of artistic expression and celebration in one of the most famous cities in the United States and enjoyed every minute of it.
Sidenote: One phenomenal feature about Khemfest is their ability to adjust to the times.
As I stepped into the theater, I was immediately swept away by the symphony of sounds by DJ Fauzi on the turntables. The atmosphere was electric, pulsating with the heartbeat of Newark's creative spirit. In the theater’s center, live music filled the air, drawing attendees toward an impromptu dance floor allowing kids to dance, parents to sway, and all who attended feel the creative vibe that Khemfest was placing us under. Khemfest, always involving the community, invited Science Park HS’s Legion of Boom to showcase their musical talents to the audience as well.
In one corner, young intellectuals dived into the wonders of S.T.E.M at an engaging workshop, fostering their love of the sciences. In another corner, easels and canvases were set up, inviting visitors to participate in a communal art session by fellow Black creative, NAFEES. A space where imagination ran wild, where colors flowed freely, and where stories were told through brush strokes and pencil lines, NAFEES offered children an opportunity to be the best version of themselves artistically.
Also, nothing prepared me for the creatives Khemfest provided guests: Afrofuturism, urban mystique, superheroes, and villains; creatives’ artwork lined the theater walls, serving as a tribute to the power of creativity and entrepreneurship. Within this vibrant space, artists unveiled their masterpieces, and I was able to engage with a few creatives who kindly shared the inspiration behind their work.
Joseph Watkins (JW): How are you doing today?
Nicole C. J.: How are you?
JW: I’m good (2x). You were mentioning that your artwork is your “Covid-Baby”? Could you go a little bit more in detail?
NJC: Yes, I’ve always been an artist, I grew up here in NJ. I’ve been featured in Barren Arts Center in Middlesex County as a young kid. Life happens, you get busy, and you just stop doing things that you love as an adult, and I took a 20-year break. During COVID, I decided to give it a go, digitally this time, so I figured out how to use PROCREATE, and I’m sitting there, coloring things in, like it’s a piece of paper. So, as I grew to learn the platform, I’ve came up with all these ideas, and I just ran with the theme.
Sidenote: Her theme encompasses a collection of Black Superhero favorites, brilliantly placed in a paying card like setting, entitled Spade Series.
NJC: ....My goal here is to feature Black superheroes. We see white superheroes all the time, everywhere. There are so many Black superheroes that we don’t know about, and I have a long list of superheroes, that I want to feature as cards and other designs, like Blackwing and Moon Girl, there are so many that are not at the forefront...
JW: Which print is your favorite?
NJC: Nubia and Luke Cage. Luke Cage to me is like that old school 70’s aesthetic. the [Luke Cage] series brought a fresh new take to it, so I try to combine that and throw some African fabric patterns behind it, and, yeah, it’s the most powerful for me.
JW: Thank you so much
Nicole’s work can be found on Nic@Nite Art.com.
Origin: The year is 1845. A slave is captured. Told on by one of the house servants, the slave’s continued attempts to escape slavery comes to an end as he is murdered and left for dead as an example to the other slaves. As his life fades into darkness, the Supreme African God of Death, Gamab, saves his life and becomes his servant. As Blackbird [Darius Daniels], the story’s protagonist, continues to work for Gamab, we see Daniel’s origin story unravel as the partnership between mortal and deity reveals itself to be far more complex than anticipated, with unforeseen consequences and revelations awaiting both characters.
The historical backdrop of slavery with the supernatural intervention of Gamab adds interest to the storyline. With themes of deception, resilience, and the blurred lines between friend and foe becoming central to this story, the pact between Daniels and Gamab is tested, promising not only a captivating series but also an exploration of the human condition within the context of slavery and the supernatural.
I look forward to their 12-issue series. Respect.
Vandel Marchen – NOTE
Origin: On “D-Day – Debtor’s Day”, a protagonist saves enough currency to pay his debt to a tyrannical government before he loses his soul. One day, before that eventful transaction occurs, he loses his funds. Left with one night to recover his funds and discover who did this, he embarks on an unforgettable journey unlike any other.
Vandel Marchen, the author and creator of the Manga, NOTE, grew up watching anime and manga. His exposure to the field inspired him to create fan-fiction comics based on original stories, as well as create original characters filled with depth and action. With his artistic handle coming from the anime series, Beet the Vandel Buster (Vandel) and Marchen Awakens Romance (Marchen), his dedication to the craft is unwavering.
When asked about the “current state of anime in 2023”, Vandel offered an opinion that readers should take note:
Vandel: “The state of anime in 2023....I think anime is pretty standardized. One thing that I’ll say that I miss? I miss the days when it [anime] wasn’t as well known, and it wasn’t as easy to find things as we go from winter season, to fall season, to summer.... I wish we could go back to that discovery, or that mystique of what anime used to be. But in general, I’m enjoying a lot of the new ideas and shows, they are interesting.”
Sidenote: Vandel’s favorite video game – DDR: Dance Dance Revolution
Vandel's thoughts about anime reveals how the world of anime is becoming more popular. In the past, finding and watching anime was a real challenge. Many had to rely on bootleg VHS tapes, burned DVDs, and catch late-night or early-morning anime events on the Sci-Fi channel or local channels like, WPIX. The anime scene was limited, and it was tough to find a show or channel to watch. Vampire Hunter D anyone?
Fast forward to 2024, we can easily access anime with just a click, a voice command, or by watching a YouTube video. Just recently, the Crunchyroll awards had their biggest turnout ever with 34 million votes in over 200 countries. Anime is more than a series of animated sequences, it’s a movement.
Anime has burst onto the scene with incredible energy, spreading its influence across the board and firmly establishing itself as an unstoppable cultural force in media.
Ronide and Brian
Ronide is a blogger and mental health advocate who has discussed the ins and outs of anxiety and how to handle it. Brian, her husband, is a one hell of a comic book writer, and comedian. Together, they’ve created Anxious Black Girl (ABG) comics and Brain of Brian (BoB).
Anxious Black Girl
ABG, Ronide’s magnum opus, is a testament to the ongoing work in the battle against anxiety, especially among Black women. Anxiety and other mental health issues is a prevalent factor among African American women as research discussed by the Bill of Health, notes that African Americans are less likely to receive mental health diagnosis, treatment, and care due to various cultural factors. Ronide's Blog, TikTok, IG, and other social media platforms are a breath of fresh air to the battle.
Not only do they offer a delightful escape into engaging content, she also, skillfully, leverages her platforms to share her personal journey in combating anxiety.
Her insightful posts, uplifting TikTok videos, and inspiring Instagram content serve as a source of encouragement and relatability for those navigating similar mental health challenges. Ronide's ability to weave authenticity, humor, and resilience into her online presence creates a supportive digital space that goes beyond entertainment – it's a powerful tool for fostering connection, understanding, and for seeking ways to manage and overcome anxiety. Respect.
Brain of Brian
Brian’s Brain of Brian dives into the inner workings of his psyche as he weaves visual narratives, offering a raw, unadulterated look at his thoughts and emotions. Through his storytelling, Brian not only entertains but also enlightens and creates conversations, inviting readers to join him on a journey encompassing humor and realism.
Ra & Ashes Presents Lawful Evil
Lawful Evil (LE) is a gripping tale of friendship, redemption, and revenge, headlined by the dynamic duo of Dark Spider and Succ-U-babe, the sultry succubus. Packed with an assortment of mischief and heroism, this series spans 20 thrilling issues (with three completed), complemented by a prequel solo adventure of Dark Spider, set a decade before the main LE storyline.
In the realm of Lawful Evil, expect an X-Men-esque vibe, while the Dark Spider solo series channels the rugged spirit of Wolverine. Filled with action, otherworldly encounters, and a touch of sensuality, Lawful Evil invites you to immerse yourself in its captivating universe. Shoutout to Ra and Ashes for the creation of this amazing universe.
Conclusion
Khemfest’s blend of Afrofuturism and urban mystique, fueled by a love for imagination and creativity, has been around for some time now, and its impact continues to inspire and showcase up-and-coming creatives. For me and many others, Khemfest has become more than just an event; it's a convention that supports emerging talent and cultivates community. Through its dedication to showcasing up-and-coming creatives, Khemfest symbolizes the essence of what makes Newark such a dynamic cultural hub. With each passing year, its impact grows stronger, leaving an indelible mark on the city's artistic landscape.
Shoutout to Naseed Gifted and staff for this continued one of a kind pop culture event.
Respect.
