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A New Blog

2008-11-16T18:50:00.005-05:00

To those of you who know me you know that photography is not my only claim to fame. I started as an illustrator/designer in the creative field. You also know that there is a big part of my life that can best be described as Nerdy in the extreme. To celebrate this aspect of my life I have established a second blog!

This blog will trace my professional involvement with Star Trek, Star Wars and other Sci-Fi endeavors over the past 19 years. With a new Star Trek movie about to drop I also will be providing my thoughts about the new JJ Abrams movie. If you are at all interested in this genre feel free to visit my new site Trek Geek
For those who follow this blog...fear not...its not going anywhere!

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Now This Makes Sense!

2008-11-10T23:20:00.003-05:00

Given all of the craziness happening in and around California's Prop 8 loss I thought this apparent lesson in collective spirit was in order. Why is it that children seem to be able to get it right!?! It's a rhetorical question... no need to answer.

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Jensen in DC

2008-11-10T23:13:00.002-05:00

Jensen receiving a plaque durring a three day Jensen Atwood Appreciation weekend in DC at the end of October.

I want a drink of what she's having!!!!

Looks like a fun weekend!

Note: All images courtesy of Lasaunji Colston EN's Ace reporter in the field! This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Detroit 67

2008-11-09T18:12:00.002-05:00

Never been a fan of Sam Robertson. Its not that he isn't talented, it's because his genre of rock isn't what I am listening to much these days. But recently a friend from Detroit turned me on to a politically and racially charged song that speaks to the lingering effects of the race riots of 1967. A subject covered here previously. I was shocked at how close to the mark Sam hit at the feelings and emotions attached to that era especially given that he was born in Quebec in 1974. I wondered where his motivation and clear understanding of that time and place originated from? And I still do. I was seven when the riots broke out in Detroit and I have clear memories of that time and grew up with the after effects on that most difficult time in our history. So Sam you hit the mark and I'm a fan.

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Sly

2008-11-09T18:00:00.004-05:00

I met Sly at and event a couple of years ago, Muscle and Martini night at the Laurentian Room in Cabbage Town. They put on a cabaret the day before Pride kicked off. Fast forward to a couple months ago I caught The Seattle Washington models pics on his Model Meyhem page and I sent him a note that if he ever got back to Toronto I would love to take his photos. He shot me a note on face book and the rest is history. One of the greatest personalities I have met in a long time... Very funny and down to earth real!

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

First Copy of Dance Through Life/ First Ballet Creole Poster!!!

2008-11-05T22:25:00.005-05:00

I took today off to absorb and reflect on the events of the past 24 hours, about noon the post knocked at the door with the first copy of our new book in hand! I nervously signed and then opened the package... My first whole book... I have said it before but there is just no describing the feeling you get when you have the finished product from your creative endeavors and hold it in your hand...

Kevin came by and we had to document the moment appropriately with a final picture!

The blessings continued as Kevin brought the finished poster and card for the fall winter Ballet Creole season! I had taken the photo a couple months ago in a Catholic Church located on College Avenue in Toronto. Its been a very satisfying few days... and I am blessed with a good friend in Kevin! Thanks my friend!
Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Holt Renfrew Kicks Off The Holiday Season With Macy Gray and Patti LaBelle!

2008-11-05T22:17:00.003-05:00

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

"Change Has Come To America" Yes We Did!

2008-11-05T01:26:00.009-05:00

In my short 48 years I have been witness to some amazing moments in human history. Events both good and bad.... I have seen man land and walk on the moon, I have seen the Berlin Wall fall, I have seen presidents and preachers assassinated for what they believed in. I have seen war and peace. Tonight I can add one more thing to my list of moments. The election of an African American to the Presidency of the United States of America. Obama, 47, will now begin his transition to the White House. He will be sworn in at the 44th president on January 20, 2009.

"The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America -- I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you -- we as a people will get there,"

"This is your victory." "To those Americans whose support I have yet to earn -- I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your president too,"

"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer."

"We have never been a collection of individuals, a collection of red states and blue states," Obama said. "We are and will always the be the United States of America."

"It's the answer that led those who've been told for so long by so many to be cynical and fearful and doubtful about what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day. It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this date in this election at this defining moment change has come to America."

This is your victory. And I know you didn't do this just to win an election. And I know you didn't do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime -- two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century.

To those -- to those who would tear the world down: We will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security: We support you. And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright: Tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity and unyielding hope.

This is our time, to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth, that, out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope. And where we are met with cynicism and doubts and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes, we can.Thank you. God bless you. And may God bless the United States of America.

Note: All Images tonight are from various artists and photographers who have inspired me with their work.

22nd Annual Fashion sCares!

2008-11-03T21:44:00.006-05:00

Fashion Cares 2008 is the 22nd gala to support ACT (Aids Committee of Toronto). This years event coincided with Halloween and as such was dubbed Fashion sCares! The Halloween motif included and Alfred Hitchcock inspired fashion show... and a costume contest.... The event hopes to raise more than 1 million dollars this year.

Kevin and I covering the event

Kevin walking the red carpet!

Cedric getting ready for the opening act!

Took lots of pics from the event and will post after they post at the magazine...Till then a taste of the music from the event...

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Published! Dance Through Life

2008-11-02T18:30:00.007-05:00

Dance Through Life was a true labor of love for Kevin and myself as well all of the dancers who participated. What started as a simple dance shoot two years ago has blossomed into a awesome book that speaks to non-dancers and dancers alike as it depicts our common humanity. Dance Through Life is a dance photography project dedicated to capture the Art of Dance within the parameters of everyday life. The project hopes to capture the innate relationships between dance and everyday life. Images of dance performed in non-traditional locales hopefully demystifying dance as being inaccessible and drawing the obvious metaphor that while all can not express life with such movement and physicality, we all love and move with our own signature grace. Therefore we all dance!

All of the dancers donated many hours to rein-vision dance as a more accessible art form in Toronto. Profits from this project will go towards various youth dance initiatives in the greater Toronto area where the money is desperately needed to support new and emerging dance artists. You can help by purchasing a copy of Dance Through Life at this link: Dance Through Life

The following pictures were shot at various times during the last two years to document the process of creating the book.

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-02T13:47:00.011-05:00

No Tricks Just Treats!

2008-11-01T11:51:00.004-04:00

An EN Exclusive, Don't forget your Candy with this Rankin-esk Treat for your Halloween viewing pleasure! Enjoy! Candy?

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

It's In The Mail!

2008-10-28T21:15:00.006-04:00

Over the past few days I have been researching the other portions of my ballot so that I could properly vote for my congressman, local judges, and the various propositions in my home city of Detroit. Tonight I committed my choices to the ballot and dropped it in my local post box for its trip back to Michigan! I have been hearing from so many people here in Canada how much they wish they could vote in this election. Some because it is a historic opportunity to vote for the first black President, many others because of the ever present influence the US has on what happens in Canada. In any case my north of the boarder straw pole easy fit into my ultimate choice! YES I DID! because YES WE CAN!

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

50,000 Unique Visitors/ 104 Countries!

2008-10-24T18:56:00.003-04:00

Some time around 4pm today I reached yet another record in the blogosphere with EpiphanyNoir! 50,000 unique visitors who contribute to an average of 3000 page hits per week/ over 150,000 hits per year! What still amazes me is the viral nature of the internet has increased my presence in the world by almost 24 countries to 104! My humble Thanks! to all of my readers! Please keep the word going out!
Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Setting The Record Straight

2008-10-20T22:16:00.005-04:00

I was not alone Sunday morning tuned into Meet the Press to See Gen. Colin Powell endorse Obama for President. Much has been said today about his reasons and motivations. Finally I shouted at the TV! Finally someone is saying what needed to be said. Many people have been living in fear since 9/11 and that is understandable. We were attacked in a most heinous way. But many more have been living in such fear that they have forgotten what it means to be an American. Forgotten that America was made up of individuals from other countries, many coming here to make a change, make their own country. Forgotten that as Americans we claimed to be on a higher moral footing in the world. Sunday Powell cleared two things up... Obama is not a Muslim and anyone who can't respect Muslims is not American because America was founded on a higher principle of freedom to be who you are regardless of your faith or beliefs.

The most moving part of the statement Colin Powell gave on Meet The Press endorsing Obama for president centered on the story of one grave in Arlington. It is the grave of Kareem Khan, a young man from New Jersey who was so moved by the tragedy and shock of Sept. 11, 2001, when he was just a boy, that he enlisted in the Army as soon as he could. Khan liked video games, the Dallas Cowboys and Starburst candies. He was also a Muslim.

Powell talked about the whispering campaign among some McCain supporters who say that Obama is Muslim. First, Powell said, it is not true. Obama is a Christian, and always has been. Second, Powell emphasized, what if he is Muslim? Isn't that the American way -- that a Muslim, or an Episopalian, or a Jew, or a Hindu or anyone else can grow up in this country with the same dream -- the dream that anything is possible, even the presidency.

So John I don't believe you personally endorse the fear mongering of the Republican party, but you do need to apologize for letting it go this far, for a complete lack of critical thinking and adding more to the already tarnished American reputation.

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. Image is by Platon and some text is from Forbes

Chicago International Film Festival/ Black Perspectives Tribute and Reception

2008-10-20T21:50:00.008-04:00

Lasanji and her Fab-U-Lous Dress at the 44th annual Chicago International Film Festival Black Perspectives Tribute and Reception this past weekend where they honored Sidney Poitier.

Lasaunji and Jensen Atwood (Who was presenting an award Saturday night to Jennifer Hudson)

Lasaunji and Rockmond Dunbar (of Soul Food, Noah's Arc and Prison Break fame)

Lasaunji and Joe with Robin Robinson of Fox News Chicago

Again thanks to My EN Reporter in the field Lasaunji Colston for providing me with these great pics!

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This post Photos by Lasaunji Colston.

Casting My Ballot

2008-10-19T22:27:00.003-04:00

Ballot came in the mail end of last week and I have been debating on saying weather or not I voted and for whom. To me the choice came down to who was going to be different from the last 8 years, who saw things from a positive point of view... I remain curious about how it is all going to fall out over the next four years but I am feeling hopeful and that beets the alternative. I thought this campaign button really says allot of things about the past few weeks and how Obama takes a negative and uses it to his advantage...

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Herschel Fall Shoot

2008-10-19T22:04:00.004-04:00

If your interested in hiring Herschel for modeling check out his exclusive site

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Blackcat Birthday Party - 2008

2008-10-12T18:31:00.007-04:00

Last night was Blackcat's Birthday gig! An awesome new joint, lots of freinds and a great party... Here are just a few pics... If you had your pic taken please contact Cat as the pictures are his to pass on! Happy Birthday Cat!

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

Xing Dance Theater - White

2008-10-11T22:50:00.012-04:00

White took the stage as a struggle between light and dark, at the Betty Oliphant Theatre Tonight. The beautifully moving piece depicts a life struggle into white – purity, innocence, & beauty – from the dark place where life begins. Choreographer and dancer Xing Bang Fu drew on his dynamic, eclectic style to captivate the audience through his struggles in darkness and his journey through the ups and downs of finding white.
White features renowned soloist Xing Bang Fu, whose Butoh-inspired signature and dramatic stagecraft took the audience on spellbinding journey. The poetic imagery mirrored life and the emotional growth of people and their internal struggles. Beautifully textured, sacred and haunting, the surreal atmosphere spoke to ritual while digging the roots of a visceral physicality. As a fragile and powerful as a dream, this new work was awe-inspiring experience, supported by a cast including Jelani Ade Douglas, Byron Beckford and Sze-Yang Lam, Xing Dance Theatre’s unique fusion of eastern and western movement disciplines blends aesthetics to create bold and enchanting metaphors.
Had to shoot this as they prepare to take their bows... Yeah I know its not allowed but hey, I waited till they were done...

Here is my review: I have seen many dance presentations in my life... Dance Theater of Harlem, Alvin Ailey, Ballet Creole here in Toronto and tonight I have seen something new at least for me. In the opening segment Xing Bang Fu is painted in all white giving him an other worldly look. The music is strangely reminiscent of and old Stanley Kubrick film or perhaps George Lucas's THX1138, certainly the look of Xing laying prone on a bed of light as a sphere rises above him is reminiscent of a time yet to come. The dance is in literal slow motion and I can only imagine the pain the dancer is in moving mere inches a second, mussels straining to keep a pose that slowly changes, no... metamorphoses into the next pose. This human seems trapped in a vexing moment in time, slowly emerging into his humanity. When the other dancers emerge in the second segment they too are at first slowly transforming in their movements. Their physicality is punctuated by intense light which seems to sow each mussel in the body moving in syncopation and the music score is only intensifying the movement. It's here where I begin to feel connected to the dancers and their transformation. Xing is both eastern and western influenced and one can not help but to be drawn into a trance as you watch this. For me it is taken to yet another level as I am personally familiar with several of the dancers yet in this moment I have lost the connection I have with them as they are familiar yet too become other worldly. In subsequent segments of the the performance the pace of the dance become frenetic and more familiar to me, more western and modern in dance form. At one point the leaps from Lam, Douglas and Beckford come so quickly one wonders where they find the energy to keep it going. Leaps followed by crashes to the floor followed by yet more leaps keeps the theme of the dance through out. In the final movement of this piece the visual imagery leaves the expected and goes into the surreal. Xing enters the stage with a single high intensity light beginning to glow... but wait there is a sound like small pellets hitting the floor, perhaps water at first but then more solid. As the light intensifies the pellets become visible and begin to fall rapidly from a place 40 feet above the stage, faster and harder they begin to spread in the beam of light as Xing moves towards the stream in curious repose. He enters the stream as the other dancer enter the stage and small fluttering reflective strips of paper fall from the air by the thousands.. at first they look like moths to a flame or perhaps feathers, commonly found in anime but then their number grows into a storm of paper.. at one point in the silence between music pieces one can here the pellets and the paper hitting the floor as if it were 100,000 pin drops simultaneously! It's this moment of genius that one gets that the the point of the whole piece... it has tapped into the senses of everyone in the audience and driven each and everyone of them into the same point of awareness, the audience is in the moment... a human moment with out words or expression. I guarantee everyone left with a measure of awe, not quite sure what about them that was tapped into but knowing that they have shared a common feeling with each the dancers and each other. White is an audacious first step in a trilogy of dances and I can only hope that the other two in the series live up to the performance tonight!

Here is some video of a practice session for White

Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

The Lights Have Gone Off

2008-10-09T22:01:00.004-04:00

When last weekend passed so did the lights on a Toronto Yonge Street Icon the Sam The Record Man Store Front! The chain was first launched in 1937 by Sam Sniderman, as a record department in his family's existing radio store in Toronto. In 1961, the store moved out to its own location on Yonge Street, and its location at 347 Yonge Street had become a Toronto landmark. The Yonge Street location was always noted for its kitschy signage. Its first neon signage included the store's address in large neon "347" numbers vertically aligned between two windows. On the left side was a thermometer made from neon. On the far right was a neon multi-sectioned triangle similar to the one on top of the Canada Life Building, which indicated weather conditions depending on how it was blinking. In the late 1960s, the iconic double disc, spinning records neon sign replaced the previous neon signs.

On May 29, 2007, Jason and Bobby Sniderman announced that the iconic flagship store, on Toronto's Yonge and Gould Streets, would close permanently on June 30, 2007. They stated that "their decision reflects the increasing impact of technology on the record industry." On May 30, 2007, supporters started a Facebook group to save the store's neon spinning record signs titled "Save the Sam's Sign!!!"; the group, and its attached online petition, garnered more than 18,000 members. On June 14, 2007, it was announced that the sign, and the contents of the store would be auctioned-off by Benaco Sales on June 27. However, on June 22, 2007, the Toronto city council voted in favor of designating the entire property as a heritage site, protecting the entire building, including the landmark signs. The entire building was designated because the Ontario Heritage Act has no provisions to protect store signs.
Note: All images and text (not specified) is copyrighted by Christopher Cushman. This site does not specify or denote the sexual orientation of any model and as such please post your comments accordingly.

The Crew

2008-10-05T21:13:00.004-04:00