Editor's log 027
Pan-African cinema, Matthieu Blazy's Chanel, Tim Reaper live, and a Slayr encounter
Hi all,
Welcome back to the Editor’s Log. Hope everyone’s enjoying the bank holiday.
This week I published a couple of pieces I’m really happy with: one on worldbuilding and what it means to be a “great” artist, and another with The Culture Crypt on Made in the Manor. Would really appreciate you taking a look at both, especially the first one!
Quick one as well: I’m thinking about adding a short Q&A to the end of each newsletter — a few hundred words with someone interesting. Would you be into that? And if so, would you prefer it written or filmed? Answer in the poll below.
Monday
The Barbican is launching a film programme tracing Pan-african thought, starting early July. I’ve only really brushed up against the ideology before (bits of Marcus Garvey and a surface-level understanding of Haile Selassie), so I’m looking forward to filling in the gaps.
The Culture Crypt published my piece on Kano’s Made in the Manor. One of my favourite albums ever, and I’m happy with how the article came out.
Tuesday
Matthieu Blazy delivered again with his Chanel resort collection. I’m not usually that invested in the big houses, but his work has such an allure. No notes.
The Good Immigrant is being reissued for its tenth anniversary this September, with a new foreword by Candice Carty-Williams. Having only read (and enjoyed) a few excerpts so far, and being a big fan of Candice, I’ll definitely be picking this up!
In the evening, I went to my friend Emily’s art school. I cannot paint to save my life, but it was nice just being around people making things. She’s building something special.
Wednesday
Nia Archives is taking over V&A East next Saturday with her label, Up Ya Archives. Omg I’m excited for this. I loveeeee Tim Reaper so I can’t wait to finally see him live for the first time. She’s also announced her next album, with features from Jorja Smith and Sampha. Expectations are high.
Little Simz also announced the Sugar Girl EP, dropping this Friday!
After school, I linked Slayr, hold tight the goat (Gaby) for patterning that. He was cool, and I randomly had my sword with me (long story), which felt oddly appropriate given the name.
Thursday
DaMetalMessiah called Gabriel the greatest tune of all time. I get the sentiment, it’s a classic, but that might be pushing it.
I went to Kindred’s takeover at Sadie Coles. I only caught Daigo Sakuragi’s performance, but it was interesting, and they used the space really well. I’m so here for anything Kindred does at this point.
Friday
Kelela announced new music, dropping tomorrow (Tuesday). Idea 1 was interesting, if a bit sparse, so I’m hoping this next one fills things out.
In the evening, I went to drinks for Masha Popova’s sample sale. The clothes are really well-made but it feels like they could push further aesthetically.
And I visited my friend Petra’s studio. To be perfectly honest, at first, I wasn’t totally convinced by her work, but having sat with it for a couple months, I adore it.
Saturday
Yaku Stapleton’s Nike collab is launching this Thursday at the LN-CC. I wouldn’t miss that for the world!
Sunday
The protests have started against Jeff Bezos’ involvement in the Met Gala, which takes place tonight. It’s a difficult one. On one hand, he’s obviously a terrible guy and is clearly using it to rehabilitate his image; on the other, the event does provide the Costume Institute with much-needed funding. Not a clean situation.
I also published my essay on shapeshifting, worldbuilding, and what makes great art. It’s ambitious, probably more of a framework than a conclusion, but the response so far has been positive. If you get a chance to read it, I’d really appreciate your thoughts!
Until next week,
Sik
P.S. Do fill in the survey, or just message me if you’ve got ideas.