http://youtu.be/98mOu3a1gKg "Limits is denial..." There's an energy that Hyang Cho possess. It's radiated through her actions; the bounce in her walk, the projection in her talk, the extension in a smile she throws your way. Her friendliness and charm is compensated by her direct approach to dealing with matters. There is no denying who's boss.... Continue Reading →
Maira’s List: Top 5 places to visit in Salvador!
Salvador da Bahia! Historically known as the "City of the Holy Saviour of the Bay of all Saints". Brazil's vibrant Afro-Brazilian capital, renowned for its positive energy (which by the way is contagious) and happy people, has had an immense impact on me since my arrival earlier this year. So to say goodbye not just to the city... Continue Reading →
Ghana Contemporary presents KA.LEI.DO.SCOPE
Ghana is developing fast. The proof is most definitely evident in its diverse social scene. From music to art, restaurants to hotels, Ghana is certainly making a statement with its capital city Accra as the show piece for the world to view. In less than 24 hours of stepping off the plane at Kotoka International... Continue Reading →
Malcolm’s Echo: The legacy of Malcolm X
Malcolm's Echo: The legacy of Malcolm X (African Movie Academy Award) is a feature documentary by African-British film director Dami Akinnusi. I first the met Dami in 2004 before her credits included Bleach My Skin White (ITV)- the first UK documentary to tackle skin bleaching on primetime television. Even within the humble settings of one... Continue Reading →
Fears of a Travel Addict… Right of a wo(mb)man
There are many factors of travelling alone I'm fearful of, yet I rarely voice them- not even to friends or family. The last thing I need is a scenario confessing to a member of family my fears on the potential dangers I could face coming Brazil alone for 3 months, or how insecure I was... Continue Reading →
“Go Brazil Go” Spike Lee documents on Brazil
I was honoured to meet Spike Lee while he's in Bahia during the carnival. Spike Lee is no stranger to Brazil nor the people to him, as in 1996 Mr Lee directed Michael Jackson's "They Don't Care About Us" music video featuring Salvador Afro-Brazilian Samba band; Olodum. When I met the acclaimed African-American director in... Continue Reading →
Practice makes perfect… Escola de Samba Unidos de Itapuã!
From practice in the scenic setting of Lagoa do Abaeté - Itapuã... The rhythms attracting the bands first audience; local children! I accompanied my host Alberto (airbnb.com) to the rehearsals of one of the samba bands he is playing for during the carnival period; Escola de Samba Unidos de Itapuã. Alberto, an experienced tambourin percussionist... Continue Reading →
Press stop- Pelourinho!
The carnival in Salvador is in full swing! In every corner of Salvador's historic centre - Pelourinho, lurks something captivating for the camera... And that's before any of the parades have begun! So it goes without saying, I was thankful to discover a press centre for journalist to 'recharge' not just the batteries for their... Continue Reading →
Spike Lee captures Carnival in Maragojipe!
When I learnt Spike Lee was in Salvador for the carnival I instantly put to twitter, using up all my limited character allowance (as though baggage allowance!), my hopes to have an opportunity of interviewing the acclaimed film director! So that very evening when I stood next to Mr Lee himself while Samba band Olodum were... Continue Reading →
Curves of Architecture: MAC- Museu de Arte Contemporânea, Niterói
This famous creation by Oscar Niemeyer completed in 1996, can be found across the Rio-Niteroi bridge from Rio de Janeiro City. The futuristic building is beyond its time, resembling a floating flying saucer over Niteroi bay. It's circular interior exposes stunning panoramic views across Guanabara Bay, along side a range of Contemporary art. The the basement... Continue Reading →