By Keisha A. Mitchell
School/s: Morehouse, Clark Atlanta University, and Savannah College of Art & Design
Classification: Senior, and post grad students
According to the folks at Art Nouveau, “Art is everywhere”, a fact they prove again and again weekly through their webzine Art Nouveau Magazine. Founded by Kendrick Daye (also featured in this issue), and operated by a powerhouse group of other individuals including Dane Young (Publicist), Art Nouveau Magazine is redefining what art, expression, and success look like in the city of Atlanta.
According to Young, the Art Nouveau movement was spawned from the need to promote cultural literacy and artistic appreciation amongst urbanites. Young explains:
“I ran into a group of gentlemen that possessed the same visions and ideas for entertainment as I did. Together we agreed that there was a lack for the appreciation of art among the urban community, and instead being looked down upon for our differences we used it to form a medium that praise individuals like us.”
Thanks to Young and his affiliates, Art Nouveau Magazine has turned into a viable media platform that has far superseded its original goal of bringing arts appreciation to the urban community. Hailed as “the new generation of the 1920’s Harlem Renaissance cultural movement”, and recognized by notable media outlets such as Time Magazine, Art Nouveau is setting a standard in the city that Young says has been very conducive and supportive of the Magazines’ success:
“Atlanta is somewhat the birthing place of Art Nouveau. The culture and acceptance here has allow[ed] for us to grow as an entity among the underground scene as well as in the corporate arena.”
As they’ve grown, Art Nouveau has expanded their perpetuation of art by including music. This crusade is mast headed by none other than their own indie label “Nouveau Music”, a project Young says is encapsulated by its diversity:
“The vision behind Nouveau Music can be summed in one word which is “Diversity”. We wanted to hear a sound that caters to us, us meaning the eclectic African Americans. You seldom hear music on the radio like Gwen Stefani, John Cash that has a black face and still addresses urban issues.”
The premiere artist on the label, Corinne Stevie, is a boasting point for Young:
“We are so glad to introduce this label to mainstream, our first artist Corinne Stevie is a great talent that has the skills, pose and grace of Lauryn Hill, Grace Jones, and Mc Lyte. She is what’s needed in HIP HOP right now, someone that embodies the essence of it all and is not just a look.”
What’s to expect next from the cornucopia of culture? “Just expect the unexpected; we like to do things our way.” Young says.
To stay connected to what’s culturally relevant on the underground arts scene, get new favorites for your playlist via the Nouveau Music artist, or to just check out what all the fuss is about, visit www.Artnouveaumagazine.com, or check out their blog at
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