Spotlight Models at Black Men In America.com

The Char E’ Interview

BMIA.com: First of all, thank you for taking time out for this interview. You pronounce your name “Shar A,” is that correct?

Char E’: Yes, you pronounced it correctly.

BMIA.com: Your background is very impressive. You’re a model and an actress. I understand that you are the first recognized African American pin-up model. Is this true?

Char E’: Yes, there or no other documented examples of the presence of a female -African American Painted Pin-up Model on the Internet prior to my launching in late 1999/2000 when my first web site charepinups.com was being birthed. In addition, there were only a handful of examples of any modernized pin-up art on the Web at that time.

BMIA.com: What is a “pin-up” model and how does this differ from other modeling categories?

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Char E’: The word “pin-up” means “perfect, wholesome and flawless. Of course this is only representative of the clean and often whimsical poses that come to mind. There is an old fashioned elegance that is appreciated in this form of erotica; therefore it does have its own special place! In an age were “skin is in,” I do not try to replace my pin-up work with my modern day bikini/lingerie shots. However, the pin-up portion of my portfolio has certainly enhanced it. At one time I was the only black model to dare use pin-up art on a composite card in New York City! At that time few photographers and artists had knowledge of how to paint the model. Shortly thereafter, my artist Guy Powers started getting calls from top modeling agencies asking how these models could shoot with him.

BMIA.com: How and when did you get into the modeling business?

Char E’: You will never believe this! While still a young teenager I wanted to be a writer, a marine biologist or an archeologist. However, math was not my forte’ so while cutting a math class as a freshman at Albuquerque High School in New Mexico I was approached in the hall by a very attractive woman who questioned who I was. She was asking me about my age, etc. I thought she was the demerit police and I was going to be sent to Detention Hall (laughing). However, it turns out that her name was Star, and that she was an agent. She gave me her card and it took off from there.

BMIA.com: You don’t look your age. In fact, you look great. At the risk of being rude, may I ask how old you are?

Char E’: Sure I am very proud of my age it has opened many doors for me as well as interesting conversation! I am 39 years old and I have a 20-year-old son.

BMIA.com: Whoa. 39. You are holding it down big time. Glamour modeling tends to be a young person’s business, or at least that’s what many in the business would lead you to believe. Not only are you competing, you’re beating out women half your age. How does that make you feel?

Char E’: Great and at times a little guilty. At other times a bit immature because naturally the other Models that I associate with on shoots or that become friends are generally quite younger.

BMIA.com: Looking at you, I must say, that you defy nature. How have you managed to retard the aging process?

Char E’: I still have not figured that out and I certainly do not eat healthy as a rule unless you consider Twinkies as part of the fifth food groups. (Laughing)

BMIA.com: You mean, Twinkies, Ho Ho’s and Krispy Kreme’s are NOT part of a healthy diet?

Char E’: No, I don’t think so Gary.

BMIA.com: Do you diet and exercise or are you just blessed with great genes?

Char E’: Many years ago about 12 years, I took kickboxing and Kung Fu. I was even asked to be an instructor. That was the last time I have participated regularly in any form of structured exercise. I have only recently begun to put exercise into my weekly routine. I still love boxing and am eager to set up a punching and kick bag at home! I also own a “Total Gym.”

BMIA.com: Total Gym. Is that the equipment that I see advertised on TV infomercials?

Char E’: You got it. I use it 4 days a week. It really works.

BMIA.com: Sales may just increase after folks look at how fit you are and know that you use this thing 4 days a week. (Laughing).

Char E’: I’m telling you it works.

BMIA.com: Tell us about your background. Where did you grow up?

Char E’: I was born in Jackson, Mississippi and raised in Ohio from age 2-14, relocating to New Mexico thereafter.

BMIA.com: You have some rather striking features. What’s your ethnic background or culture?

Char E’: My Mothers family is Sudanese, Blackfoot and Choctaw Indian. My father’s family is Blackfoot Indian, African American and Irish. My father’s grandfather was born in Ireland.

BMIA.com: Which discipline do you prefer, acting or modeling?

Char E’: Acting! That’s my passion.

BMIA.com: Talk about your signature pin-ups. Much of your work is considered to be “art.” Isn’t this correct?

Char E’: Yes. My first pin-up piece was part of an art exhibit in a Soho, New York gallery almost 7 years ago! The owner of the gallery, Louis K. Meisel, a successful pin-up artist wrote the bible on pin-up called, “Great American Pin-up.” There are many famous artists who have works exhibited right next to some of the work created by my artist Guy Powers. The difference with modern day pin-up art and vintage art is the procedure in which it is created. Most watercolors are replaced with Photoshop software, however people are in awe when I explain to them that my body is not painted. The photograph is a canvas and the clothing, backdrop, makeup and hair is enhanced or perfected through graphics in Photoshop and in some cases watercolors are added thereafter to give texture and special effect. Each piece takes days to complete and before each shoot I have researched the historical content, time period and mood for each pose.

BMIA.com: How much would a typical piece of art featuring your likeness sell for?

Char E’: In galleries they are priced from $1,500-$25,000 up to 38,” however, I have since made them readily available to the general public by reproducing them in mass quantities on poster and photographic paper apposed to a Giclée print, therefore reducing the price to as low as $17.00 per print.

BMIA.com: There are a lot of models in the business and on the Internet. What is it about you that make you so appealing and attractive to artists and advertisers?

Char E’: I will have to say my very confident attitude and strong communication and business skills. I am aware that I am blessed with unique features, height, body etc. But there are hundreds of thousands of strikingly beautiful woman in the world! Many people have told me that when I leave a room my presence is still felt. I make such a strong statement in the way that I speak and present myself to the world. I will admit however, that my fresh look and retro pin-ups are to some degree an untapped market. While there is an unlimited opportunity for advertisers to jump onto the pin-up “craze” many are presently using pin-ups to sell products such as cigarettes, cosmetics, liquor, collectables and apparel such as handbags, shoes and accessories.

BMIA.com: Are you involved with any other projects?

Char E’: I was a featured model in the November issue of FBM magazine. I will soon be a featured model for Cell Phone Entertainment subscribers as well as a model in a series of downloadable wallpaper for cell phones with a different company and I will begin shooting a new series of photos for the development of my “new” official web site. Folks can visit my Yahoo site at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PinUpCharE. My first book, “Virtual Youth,” will be published soon as well as my own line of vintage inspired clothing with the launch of “Pin-up Girl Jeans.”

BMIA.com: You are clearly multi-talented. How involved are you with the business aspect of your career?

Char E’: 160%. I am a businesswoman 24/7! My friends have teased me and asked that I turn if off after 5:00pm because I always “sound” so professional. (Laughing). At one time years ago I had a personal manager with REK Management in NYC who paved the way for future opportunities by working hard to open doors for me that gave me the confidence that I have in my career today. I also can thank my promoter Cliff Strobe who was there for me back in 2000 in NYC and my publicist Lia for all the time and effort in marketing, although there is still a lot more work to do.

BMIA.com: Tell us about your web site (www.cafepress.com/charepinups).

Char E’: This is a project that is dear to my heart in that there are unlimited ways to promote the beautiful products available! There is something for all taste from T-shirts, to coffee mugs, mouse pads, sweat suits, tote bags, writing journals and even thongs all displaying my whimsical poses. However, I am well aware that my fans are requesting an official site as I had years ago that will link to the retail shop.

BMIA.com: How big a factor is sex in the modeling business?

Char E’: Too big this is why it is important to understand why a model or actress wants to be a part of this lifestyle as a career choice and be VERY strong on what they will and will not compromise on.

BMIA.com: What’s the best part of being Char E’?

Char E’: Let’s just say if I were not me I would wish there were more people like me out there. I am one of the few 100% sincere people you will meet in your entire lifetime.

BMIA.com: You know, given our interactions over these past few months, I would concur with that. What’s the worst part of being Char E’?

Char E’: I am entirely to giving and put very little focus on myself in my personal life. I also have been told I am too trusting. I am working on these things.

BMIA.com: Are you married? Single? Have a significant other?

Char E’: I am single and waiting too see what develops.

BMIA.com: What was your earliest or most vivid recollection of being or feeling different?

Char E’: That's a very interesting question. I would have to say that my most vivid recollection of being different was being the only black student in a school of 1200 students.

BMIA.com: What do you want to do when you’re modeling career is over?

Char E’: Open a Community Resource Center and Developmental Home for displaced fathers who desire to be re-connected with their children or families as a result of drugs, unemployment, unmarketable job skills, incarceration, and domestic abuse.

BMIA.com: What advice would you give to women who want a career in the modeling or entertainment industry?

Char E’: Please read and study all you can from the magazines and ask a lot of questions. Ask questions of people who are connected and in the entertainment industry. Get involved in church functions and groups, as this will keep you spiritually balanced and boost your self-esteem. I would also encourage them to go to their local casting agent in the next largest city that you live in, be sure to bring a recent photo and always smile on the inside as well as out. Don’t give up there is a world of possibilities out there!

BMIA.com: How can we support you?

Char E’: WOW! You have in a very positive way by extending this opportunity for exposure with your very popular site. I would however, like to invite serious investors to contact me at whatsnewnews@yahoo.com and don't forget to visit my Yahoo site at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PinUpCharE.

BMIA.com: Anything else you want to say or share with us?

Char E’: Thanks to all my fans for the support and to my Mom for always pushing me a little further and thank you Black Men In America for being such a positive presence on the Internet!

BMIA.com: Thank you Char.

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Char E’ is the first recognized African American painted pin-up model on the Internet.

Publisher’s note: A Giclée (ghee-clay) print is a an advanced archival printmaking process for creating high quality fine art reproductions on paper or canvas using professional quality resolution and print equipment.

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In The Mix With Tanya Dormevil

The name Tanya represents an imperial figure, one that rules over all others, which in this case is referring to the artistic talent that belongs to R & B’s newest sensation. Tanya b.k.a. T6 is a dedicated artist who is well known for her performances at Wish 26, Jimmy’s, and BMI Open Mic nights, just to name a few. She is currently working with multi-platinum producers Dame Grease and D-Moet and has worked with artists such as Vita (formerly Murder Inc.), JR Writer, Meeno, Nore, Royce Da 59, and Mysonne. On February 16, 2007, Tanya's debut single "Work My Body" premiered on the DJ Wrexx show on WZMX Hartford's Hot 93.7. On July 27, 2007 her official remix of Work My Body was released and premiered which features Audi Rob from the hit single "Aunt Jackie." Her singles, including a remix/freestyle of TI's "Big Thangs Poppin" and J Holiday's "Bed" are currently playing at surrounding college and radio stations in Hartford, Providence, Springfield and Boston Massachusetts.

Tanya not only racks up credits for being a very talented singer and songwriter, but also a dancer, model, choreographer, and actor. As a proud member of ASCAP, every song she writes is very unique because as a writer, she shows her phenomenal signature, originality, and style.

Born Tanya "T6" Dormevil on September 3, and raised in Mt. Vernon, N.Y., Tanya first sang in a gospel choir at the age of 11. She then moved to the hottest spot in town, where she began focusing more on her career, Bridgeport, CT. With little motivation and encouragement from anyone and a positive attitude, Tanya then decided to layout her career, which did not require much thought because her passion was straight and to the point. Singing has and always will be her passion and inspiration to her. Her R & B singing vocation began in 2004, when she began showcasing her talent with performances at many well known venues. As a dedicated artist, Tanya contributes all of her time into self-promotion (including her own mix-tapes), advertising, performances, and all aspects of introducing herself to the music industry.

Tanya is not just any ordinary artist when it comes to talent. This singer/songwriter’s talent extends way beyond the recording studio. Tanya began pursuing her modeling and acting career at the age of 15 and at which time also began her hip hop, house, pop & lock, breaking and ballet lessons at Broadway Dance Center. Soon after she began dance lessons, she began choreographing her own songs. With the same creative and seductive energy that Tanya has captured the attention of the music industry, she is captivating venue audiences, radio, and CD listeners with the power of her voice, dancing techniques, lyrics, mind and personality, and natural beauty.

Here’s a spotlight interview with the multi-talented Tanya Dormevil.

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The Tanya Dormevil Interview

BMIA.com: Hello Tanya. Thanks for taking the time out of your schedule for this interview. How did you get into the modeling business?

T.D.: I started out doing fashion shows and from there I started taking it seriously… that was 2 years ago.

BMIA.com: What were you doing before you became a model?

T.D.: I used to just hang out, party and have fun with friends. It was late in my high school years that I began thinking about modeling. I also used to sing in the choir and do talent shows.

BMIA.com: You are multitalented. You’re a singer, songwriter, choreographer, dancer and actor. Which of these talents do you like the best?

T.D.: Music is my first love, like I sleep, dream, eat, breath, bathe in music…like I love it so much and I am working extremely hard to make things happen for myself.

BMIA.com: How did you get into the entertainment business?

T.D.: I started to network at the parties I was going to and the more people I knew the more jobs I would get. I never really had an agent; the jobs I found were because I submitted myself to castings, etc.

BMIA.com: Are you attending college? Where do you go and what’s your major?

T.D.: Yes, I attend Iona College, and I am majoring in Criminal Justice.

BMIA.com: Do you find it difficult to balance school, modeling and your entertainment commitments?

T.D.: Sometime I do break down because it’s overwhelming sometimes but I am a very strong girl. When I know my body cannot take all of it, I rest and when I’m done resting, I get back up again and start at it again.

BMIA.com: What’s the best part of being a model?

T.D.: I like different looks and being a model helps me to look different a lot.

BMIA.com: How long have you been a model?

T.D.: 2 years.

BMIA.com: How involved are you with the business aspect of your career?

T.D.: I am my own manager pretty much because I promote myself; I get things done, etc. I hate holding people’s hand to do things or to help me on things, that why I am so independent and don’t wait on anyone in regards to my career because it will only hold you back.

BMIA.com: Are there any modeling jobs that you won’t do?

T.D.: I won’t do fully nude shots at all.

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BMIA.com: Tell us about your dance DVD.

T.D.: It’s a DVD showcasing my dance styles of hip hop, popping and locking, free styling and more. Its like, you tell people, yea I dance, but they are like okay let me see something...so I decided to come out with a DVD. The DVD is part of my package for record labels. I recently had a release party in April in New York.

BMIA.com: What’s the worst part of being a model?

T.D.: People think you are stuck up! I hate that. I am the sweetest person but people automatically assume that I am something that I am not.

BMIA.com: How big a factor is sex in the modeling business?

T.D.: Well, sex does sell regardless of anything, but I have true talent and I keep my physical appearance on point. Exercising is my favorite hobby.

BMIA.com: What about a social or personal life? Do you have time for that?

T.D.: I don’t care too much for friends because I learned the hard way the friendships can destroy people and that friends are here one minute and next minute they are gone. I went through a lot of things with people I thought were my friends and what I did was write a song called “Gonna Make It” (Log onto my site music www.thebestoftanya.com.

BMIA.com: What advice would you give to women who want a career in the modeling and entertainment business?

T.D.: Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. Whatever it is you want to do in life, you can do it, its all steps. Keep you head up and follow your dreams.

BMIA.com: How can we continue to support you?

T.D.: Please log onto www.thebestoftanya.com or http://music.thebestoftanya.com. You can also learn more about Tanya by visiting her MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/tanyasmusicgroup. As you can see, for 2007 I’m in tha mix!

BMIA.com: You certainly are. Thanks Tanya.
T.D.: Thank you.

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Not Just Another Pretty Face: Patrice Hollis is Playboy's September 2007 Playmate

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September 19, 2007

(New York, NY) Playboy Magazine's Miss September 2007 Playmate, the lovely Patrice Hollis, has been working her way up the recognition ladder and making her mark since she was a child. A beautiful young lady both inside and out, Patrice hails from Las Vegas and is a sought-after model.

Patrice, who asserts that inner beauty is just as important as outer beauty, continues to work at Child Haven in Las Vegas, a public shelter that houses abused and neglected children, while she builds her modeling career. A natural beauty with heart, she hopes to establish her own children's foundation one day. “I've been particularly blessed throughout my life and I feel compelled to lend my assistance to those less fortunate, especially when they're children, and unable to fully fend for themselves.”

Down-to-earth and focused on her goals, Ms. Hollis recently appeared on MTV's “Next” and was also featured in music videos for popular entertainers 50 Cent, Nelly, Ginuwine & Baby and Brian McKnight. An accomplished dancer, she has been a dancer on the Soul Train television show and a go-go dancer in the reality television show “American Casino”'s LL Cool J concert segment.

Hollis spent time in Guam and England while growing up as part of a military family of five children, but was raised primarily in Las Vegas, where she attended Swainston Middle School and graduated from Eldorado High School. She began her modeling career at the age of 18, when she modeled clothing lines for rapper Nelly (Vokal), Paco Sport, Dickies Girl and Hip-Hop Weekly magazine at the MAGIC Marketplace in Las Vegas, which is the fashion industry's biggest annual business convention.

An avid reader, Ms. Hollis is also interested in fashion, music, football and basketball. Poetry in motion herself, she plans to publish a book of her own poetry in the future.

Not just another pretty face, Patrice Hollis is not just significant in September, she is a young lady making moves all year round!

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Learn more about Patrice by clicking here: www.myspace.com/Patricehollis

Publicity Contact: Mary Moore/So Much Moore Communications/(973) 675-6992 or MryLinda@aol.com.

Introducing Brandi Candi

2007

Brandi Candi is a 27-year-old aspiring model from Ohio, currently residing in Houston, TX. She came to the attention of our Modeling Committee a few months ago and made the cut to the site. Brandi is a newcomer to the modeling business. She’s been modeling for a little over six months and enjoying every moment.

Brandi describes herself as “a kind-hearted, laid back, and sophisticated woman who never takes anything for granted in life.” “Life lessons have taught me to live every moment as my last, and always put God first,” says Brandi. Brandi plans to absorb everything that the modeling industry can offer her. Brandi is not without ambitions. Her ultimate goal is to own the largest fashion clothing store ever!

We decided to start the New Year off with a model that one of our Modeling Committee members described as a "fresh new face in modeling."

Ladies and gentlemen, please meet Brandi Candi.



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BMIA.com: First of all, thank you Brandi for taking time out for this interview. Tell us about your background. How and when did you get into the modeling business?

Brandi: My pleasure! I got into the modeling industry when I was offered an opportunity to do a shoot for a magazine about 7 months ago. After shooting I realized that modeling was something I definitely wanted to pursue for a while.

BMIA.com: There are a lot of models on the Internet. What distinguishes your from other models?

Brandi: There are a lot of beautiful models on the Internet, what I believe ultimately separates me from them is that I bring versatility to the industry. I can be sexy and classy at the same time. I’m not just in it to showcase my behind to the world. I have a lot more to offer, and I believe I showcase that in my photos and personality.

BMIA.com: Are you in school?

Brandi: I am currently in school pursuing my Bachelors degree in Business Management. I love fashion, and would like to have my own clothing store in the near future.

BMIA.com: Do you do any acting?

Brandi: Currently I do not do any acting, however, acting is something that I have considered, and would not mind going for at all.

BMIA.com: Given a choice which would you prefer, acting or modeling?

Brandi: Both, I am willing to try almost anything that is positive. Modeling and acting are both very positive, and so is discipline in anything you do.

BMIA.com: Are you involved with any other projects?

Brandi: I’m currently just shooting trying to expand my portfolio in an effort to be considered for some of the best projects to come.

BMIA.com: You are clearly multi-talented. How involved are you with the business aspect of your career?

Brandi: I am very involved in the business aspect of my career. I know and understand that it is very important that I work with the most professional individuals. I constantly keep myself educated about the industry, and I’m very careful with my judgment of character when it comes to working with photographers, management, agencies, etc.

BMIA.com: How big a factor is sex in the modeling business?

Brandi: Clearly sex sells in this industry, however, my goal for myself is to be able to attract a versatile audience; for example, I don’t just want to just make men look at me but I want to do print ads that can also attract woman and even teenagers and elders.

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BMIA.com: What’s the best part of being Miss Brandi?

Brandi: The best part of being me is that I am sure about who I am and where I’m going. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have talents and know what to do with them. I know what type of creativity, personality, and sophistication I can bring to this industry.

BMIA.com: What’s the worst part of being Miss Brandi?

Brandi: The worst part about being Brandi is that I model so sometimes men see a fantasy instead of trying to get to know the real me…this can make it hard to meet a good guy because when some of them realize that you are a real woman with real emotions, and opinions they turn away because they just want you to stay a fantasy girl! LOL…its funny but true!

BMIA.com: What do you want to do when you’re modeling career is over?

Brandi: I want to build have a clothing empire, and I would love to settle down and have a family.



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BMIA.com: What advice would you give to women who want a career in the modeling business?

Brandi: I would tell any woman who wants to model to keep god first, be versatile, be confident, and most of all respect yourself and others.

BMIA.com: How can we support you?

Brandi: Just keep me in your prayers, and expose me in a way that’s as positive and sophisticated as my images.

BMIA.com: Anything else you want to say or share with us?

Brandi: I would love to thank you for the opportunity to be a feature model on your web site. I know that there are a lot of beautiful woman out there just as hungry as me that could’ve been chosen. You all chose me and I am more than grateful! Thank you!

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You can check out Brandi's MySpace page at: www.myspace.com/lil_miss26. You can also get your official "Brandi Candi" merchandise at www.cafepress.com/brandicandi.

So what do you think? If you would like to respond to this article click here and sign our Guestbook to leave a public or private statement, comment or reaction.

Stacey Dash

Stacey Dash is our Spotlight Model. She is one of the most underrated actors and beauties in Hollywood. Stacey (born January 20, 1966 in The Bronx, New York) is a film and television actress of African American and Native American descent. She is best known for her role as high school student Dionne Davenport in the 1995 film and TV series Clueless.

Stacey was featured in the August 2006 issue of Playboy magazine. This feature has boosted her popularity (it got our attention).



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You can see photos from the Stacey Dash Playboy feature at Daily Niner.com.

Stacey Dash bio information courtesy Wikipedia

Click Here To View The Stacey Dash Internet Movie Data Base (IMDB) Page

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The Char E’ Interview

In The Mix With Tanya Dormevil

The Tanya Dormevil Interview

We decided to start the New Year off with a model that one of our Modeling Committee members described as a "fresh new face in modeling."

Ladies and gentlemen, please meet Brandi Candi.

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