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Best of Show: Imani Tyson
Imani Tyson’s Best of Show honor celebrates an artist who trusts her instincts, values process over polish, and creates from a place of sincerity. Her work reminds us that growth often happens in the moments when plans fall apart—and that powerful art can emerge when an artist gives herself permission to experiment, feel, and continue.

Lukumi Arlota
Jan 72 min read


Director’s Choice Award: Shannon Gillera
Shannon Gillera was named the recipient of the Director’s Choice Award at the 2025 The Funk Before Christmas Art Show, a recognition that reflects not just a single standout work, but the depth, clarity, and emotional intelligence that define her growing artistic practice. Working across digital art and tattooing while balancing full-time work and motherhood, Gillera continues to establish herself as an artist whose voice is both personal and widely resonant.

Lukumi Arlota
Dec 31, 20253 min read


Editor’s Pick: Daniel Frank
Daniel Frank emerged as a standout artist in the 2025 edition of The Funk Before Christmas Art Show, earning Editor’s Pick recognition for both his work and the thoughtful artistic voice behind it. From the moment his piece was first seen, it drew immediate attention and admiration, quickly becoming a strong contender for high praise, Best of Show consideration, and ultimately Editor’s Pick.

Lukumi Arlota
Dec 23, 20253 min read


Call for Artists: “The Funk Before Christmas” Art Show Returns to Maplewood!
Get ready, creatives—The Funk Before Christmas artshow is back and bolder than ever! This highly anticipated one-night event brings together artists, musicians, and poets for a high-energy celebration of raw, vibrant creativity in one of Maplewood’s most electric spaces.
Whether you're a seasoned exhibitor or new to the scene, this is your chance to be part of something unforgettable.

Lukumi Arlota
Oct 2, 20252 min read


Discover The Popcorn Easel artshow: A One-Night Art Experience You Don’t Want to Miss
If you're craving a night filled with color, creativity, and live performances, look no further than The Popcorn Easel artshow, an immersive art show happening on Saturday, August 23rd at The Kre8ive Shop Studio in Maplewood, MO. Hosted by Artist Take and curated by internationally recognized artist Dismoc Le Ma, this isn’t your typical art show—it’s a full-sensory experience.

Lukumi Arlota
Jun 23, 20252 min read


Gloria Day: A Life of Artistic Growth, Faith, and Poetry
Gloria envisions becoming even more fearless in her craft, embracing her role as a speaker and poet with confidence.

Lukumi Arlota
Oct 4, 20246 min read


Overcoming the Fear of Performing Poetry
Performance anxiety affects people across various fields, from public speaking to music and, of course, poetry.

Dismoc Le Ma - Chief Editor
Jul 26, 20244 min read


Artist Take and The Kre8ive Shop Collaborate with Dismoc Le Ma for an Open Mic Poetry Event
Calling all poets and spoken word artists in St. Louis MO.

Lukumi Arlota
Jul 16, 20242 min read


Review of "Who TF is Dismoc Le Ma micro memoir series pt. 1"
Review of "Who TF is Dismoc Le Ma micro memoir series pt. 1." Readers are invited into the kaleidoscope of Dismoc Le Ma's artistic journey.

Lukumi Arlota
Apr 30, 20242 min read


Press Release for Warfroism by Dismoc Le Ma
Press release for Dismoc Le Ma's "Warfroism" Exhibition Celebrates Unsung Heroes Throughout the African Diaspora.

Lukumi Arlota
Apr 5, 20232 min read


First View of Dismoc Le Ma Solo Exhibition Warfroism
First view of Dismoc Le Ma's solo exhibition Warfroism.

Lukumi Arlota
Apr 4, 20232 min read


Working with Dismoc Le Ma For Warfroism Virtual Exhibition
My experience working with Dismoc Le Ma.

Dr. Jacob Caldwell Ph.D.
Apr 4, 20232 min read


The Guest Curator, Dr. Mugabe Thoughts
The guest curator, Dr. Mugabe of The Ephemera Series Vol. 1 share her thoughts about the initial planning of the exhibition.

Dr. Stacy Mugabe PhD
Mar 24, 20222 min read


Featured Poet: Shaliyah Keoua
The article is a Q&A with the featured poet, Shaliyah Keoua.

Lukumi Arlota
Mar 23, 20223 min read


Featured Poet: Akudo Gaius
The article is a Q&A with the featured poet, Akudo Gaius

Lukumi Arlota
Mar 16, 20225 min read


Featured Poet: Poe Tr3s
The article is a Q&A with the featured poet, Poe Tr3s.

Lukumi Arlota
Mar 9, 20223 min read


Official Press Release of The Ephemera Series Vol. 1
Dismoc Le Ma's official press release statement for The Ephemera Series Vol. 1.

Dismoc Le Ma - Chief Editor
Mar 3, 20221 min read


Dismoc Le Ma Talks About "Cherished Memories"
Dismoc Le Ma explains his painting "Cherished Memories" which is part of the "Respect! The Woman In The Red Dress" exhibition.

Dismoc Le Ma - Chief Editor
Feb 15, 20221 min read


Dismoc Le Ma Talks "Bad Timing"
Dismoc Le Ma explains his painting "Bad Timing" which is part of the "Respect! The Woman In The Red Dress" exhibition.

Dismoc Le Ma - Chief Editor
Feb 14, 20221 min read


Dismoc Le Ma Defines "Painful Words"
Dismoc Le Ma explains his painting "Painful Words" which is part of the "Respect! The Woman In The Red Dress" exhibition.

Dismoc Le Ma - Chief Editor
Feb 14, 20221 min read
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