Photography/Art Direction: Sailey Williams

Wardrobe: Inoisell Miranda

Grooming: Blue Michael for Blue Michael Cosmetics

Shoot Assistant: Sacha Azor

Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge are the founders of Beekman1802, one of the fastest-growing lifestyle brands in the United States, and authors of the upcoming book, The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook

Josh Kilmer-Purcell is an advertising executive and the New York Times best-selling author of I Am Not Myself These Days. Dr. Brent Ridge is a physician, and formerly a vice president at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.

Their decision to leave city life behind has been chronicled in Kilmer-Purcell’s national best seller, The Bucolic Plague, and on the hit Planet Green TV show, The Fabulous Beekman Boys. They call themselves accidental farmers. “We didn’t plan to buy the Beekman Farm in Sharon Springs, New York. We were on a weekend apple-picking trip when we got lost and stumbled on the place.“ They say they have always considered themselves city dwellers, but when they drove by the Beekman mansion built in 1802, they knew we had to have it.

By the next spring, it was theirs. Within a few months, they received a letter from a farmer named John who needed to find a new home for himself and his 88 goats. “It’s hard to say no to homeless goats”, so they took them in. To make use of all of the available goat milk, they created a company, Beekman 1802. They sell their goat-milk soap and cheese on the Beekman1802.com, as well as house wares from local craftspeople. Their website has since been nominated for a James Beard Award and Epicurious hailed them as “the next Martha Stewarts!”

The drive from Williamsburg, Brooklyn to the Beekman Mansion is taking us further and further from civilization. No cars, no pedestrians… already I’m feeling withdrawal from the overcrowded subways of New York City. But when we finally reach the Beekman, we are quickly put at ease by the openness of Brent and Josh and they let us wander the grounds of their beautiful home. We walk the acres of land, passing around a gorgeous lake, walking into a crypt and of course the big red barn. Soon I am quite at home, playing with the goats that I quickly learn are very social animals.

My joy and ease continue into the mansion itself. Brent and Josh are excited when they see the avant-garde fashions we’ve brought to the farm and I can already tell it’s going to be an amazing shoot.

ARTICLE FEATURED IN XEX MAGAZINE: SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE

Continuing its work in supporting aspiring designers around the globe, BKFW will present “Coming to America”, a fashion show featuring the Spring/Summer 2012 collections of visiting African born designers, including Washington Roberts (Nigeria), Raif Atelier (Togo) and Felix Anaman (Ghana). The four day event will include the Live 4 Fashion Benefit, an after party and silent auction of art and fashion pieces – the proceeds of which will support SAF’s HIV/AIDS awareness campaign in Africa, as well as XEX Magazine’s event Sunday, October 2nd, 9pm supporting the same cause.

All attendees for the XEX Magazine  event will receive a “Digital Giftbag” including a Xex Magazine issue for iPAD and Android, Coupon for 10% of all Blue Michael Cosmetics products, & 20% off hair services Evolution – The Green Room Salon.

To attend please RSVP to info@xexmag.com, you can also join our FACEBOOK event list.

For more information on BK FASHION WEEK{END} visit their website : bkfashionweekend.com

Click here for DIRECTIONS to the event!

Dear Spike Lee,

There have been a few things nagging at me, and it all started with the Warner Bros.’ recent theater release of the Green Lantern live action movie.

Now it isn’t shocking that the movie wasn’t well received by critics; frankly the whole thing looked liked an under-budgeted Pixar film, but that’s neither here nor there. What surprised me most was the decision to have Ryan Reynolds sport the green bling on his right hand. Don’t get me wrong; Van Wilder is a fine actor, but I was under the assumption that the Emerald Crusader had a bit of a darker complexion. That’s what the last decade of Saturday morning cartoons taught me anyway. And also Lex Luthor might be Hispanic. I’m not sure; it was pretty ambiguous.

The Green Lantern actually has multiple incarnations. Two of the most famous are Hal Jordan, a Caucasian Lantern who first appeared in DC’s Silver age of Comics circa 1959, and John Stewart, an African-American successor, who graced the pages of Green Lantern’s Bronze Age in the early 70’s. Kids familiar with the Justice League and Justice League: Unlimited animated series of 2001-2006 have seen Stewart be the only diversifying factor in an otherwise all white lineup of heroes. So when the time came to cast a lead for the Green Lantern movie, what happened?

Technically, Hal Jordan came before John Stewart. It is important to respect the mythos of any hero, especially one that has had an enduring story since 1940. Hardcore comic book fans as well as casual moviegoers can appreciate that. Yet, anyone who has seen a comic book movie adaptation in the last 15 years can see that they are just that: adaptations. Stories like these are begging to be tweaked, rewritten, and updated. It’s a way to keep them relevant and relatable to the viewer. (Superman’s origin story has undergone many revisions over the past 70 years, presumably for this very reason) Underneath the gaudy jewelry and distaste for yellow, the Green Lantern is a story about overcoming fear, and realizing that creativity and imagination can be just as powerful as brute force. Frankly, it’s hard to find any concrete justification for why a black actor couldn’t convey these ideals as the Green Lantern.

I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. Ever since 1966, when Marvel introduced “Black Panther” as the first superhero of color; there has been a perpetual ebb and flow of racial progress in superhero media. Although people of color were now being represented in the comic book world, it seemed as though the 70’s saw writers and artist do everything in their power to make black heroes as stereotypical as possible.

Somehow it was prudent to have black men fight crime sporting gold medallions, bell-bottoms and power fists. And of course, foxy mamas were never far behind, equipped with afro-picks ready to groom their man at a moment’s notice. Pam Grier be damned. “Luke Cage,” the first African-American superhero to star in his own series, employed dialogue that sounded like it came strait out of Super Fly. I’m surprised Shaft didn’t sue for copyright infringement. Indeed, with names like “Brother Voodoo,” “Black Lightning,” “Power Man,” and “Muhammad X,” it’s easy to see why these characters weren’t paragons of the politically correct.

Over the next 30 years, comic books would gradually veer away from the use of stereotypes as a means to fit their cultural expansion allowance and dynamic characters, who just happen to be ethnic, became more widespread. However, the translation of comic book narratives into television programs and feature length films was becoming an increasingly viable market, ultimately providing black actors with as much adversity as it did (and does) career opportunities.

Batman, the live action series of the late 60’s, introduced a black Catwoman to the roster when Eartha Kitt replaced Julie Newmar in its third season. Despite only appearing in three episodes, Kitt was the subject of controversy when an on-screen kiss with Adam West, playing Batman, was ultimately written out of the script due to racial tension. With that said, its understandable why Halle Berry would find it enticing to succeed Kitt as another kitten of color in the ill-fated 2004 film, Catwoman. Finding fault withBerryis difficult, given what the success of Catwoman could have meant for the progression of black women as heroes. Alas, this particular brand of “black cat” appears to be doomed to failure.

Concurrently with Catwoman,Berrywas also attached to the X-Men film series, playing marvel’s resident weather goddess, Storm. Storm has the distinction of being one of the first black comic book characters, and first female, to play either a major or supporting role in the 2 major comic book houses, DC and Marvel. Although not the first character introduced, since her creation, Storm has remained the most successful and recognizable black superhero to date. The Beautiful Windrider made her first appearance in the 1975 comic book run of X-Men, along side a “small world” cast of characters, spanning the Soviet Union, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, and Canada, to mention a few. The film series conversely implemented a predominately white American cast, with Berry’s Storm being the only exception. X-Men (2000) and X2 (2003) used Berry as nothing more then a background personality, spouting hackneyed one-liners and shooting the occasional lightning bolt when deemed appropriate. Giving her a different wig each film is not laudable compensation for treating a character, and an esteemed actress, in this matter. It was as if she was only there so the Xavier Institute could fill their Affirmative Action quota.

Berry, unwilling to let this trend continue, stated in interviews that she would not return for X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) unless her character had a significant presence comparable to the comic book version. A successful, and perhaps arrogant, gambit, the Oscar winner managed to employed her sizable clout to guarantee that one of comic book’s greatest heroes of color was not cast to the wayside.  You go girl.

Now for the kicker: what if I told you Wesley Snipes, Mr. Income Tax himself, was at the root of all this?

Yes, as luck would have it, the 21st century outpour of whitewashed superhero films, X-Men, Spiderman, Daredevil, Iron Man, Fantastic Four, Ghost Rider, etc., all started with a gritty vampire flick, staring a black actor. And no, I’m not referring to Blacula.

Remember Blade? Wesley Snipes played Marvel’s human-vampire hybrid, equipped with the abilities to protect mankind from their pale-skinned malcontents (Insert irony here). Blade (1998) and its two sequels, Blade II (2002) and Blade: Trinity (2004), were consistent critical and commercial successes, gaining fan acclaim and grossing over $415 million US. It was because of the Blade trilogy that Marvel green lit both the X-men and Spiderman film series. The Blade films are enduring proof that a successful black superhero franchise can exist.

I bet your wondering why I’m telling you all this. Well Spike, I’ve been talking with the rest of the world and I think we all agree that its time for you to make your own superhero movie. Personally, I think the Black Panther would be right up your alley. Black Panther is T’Challa, a king of the African Nation of Wakanda who journeys toNew York Cityto fight crime along side its many heroes, while retaining pride and loyalty to his home nation. If anyone could do this character justice, it would be you. As the first black superhero in mainstream American comics, I believe that you would properly handle this character and respect what he means as an icon for heroes of color. Now more then ever,Hollywoodneeds a voice that properly represents blackAmerica. To quote one of your movies, “Perform the correct action.” I know you’re a busy man, and I won’t pressure you beyond this letter. Just think about it sir; don’t let Aaron McGruder beat you to the punch.

Sincerely,

Michael Nelson

ARTICLE FEATURED IN XEX MAGAZINE: SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE

MUA: William Marshall

Hair: Daniele Marinio

Associate Editor(s) Sacha Azor

Header Photo: Devon Cass

When the idea for XEX to “Go Drag” the question then became “Who should we feature?” as there are so many popular NYC drag performers; as well as the queens of that popular drag show on LOGO. We then thought, who would we pay to see and tip heavily, that left us with non other than the Legendary Queen of Comedy Harmonica Sunbeam!

Harmonica Sunbeam, The Legendary Queen of Comedy has been delighting audiences at nightclubs, cabarets, fundraising events and supermarket openings throughout the United States and abroad for over 15 years now. Her live appearances along with her personalized DVDs, have gained her a cult following of all ages, races and backgrounds.

With her unique yet classic style and razor-sharp wit, she has all the necessary talents to reach her goal of mainstream stardom.” The sky’s the limit!” Harmonica exclaims. “In the entertainment field, if people feel you are marketable, they will use you in any capacity”. She is a member of the Screen Actors Guild and has been featured on several television shows (Law and Order SVU, Third Watch, Johnny Zero and 100 Center Street). Her film credits include Honey w/Jessica Alba, Uptown Girls w/Brittany Murphy and the Oliver Stone drama “WORLD TRADE CENTER”. Her latest movie project is “Please Give” directed by Nicole Holofcener

Miss Sunbeam has also worked alongside noted musical artists such as Beyonce, Mary J.Blige and Jennifer Holiday to name a few.

Harmonica entered the world of music with three pumping club singles that were produced independently but yet made thousands of new and lifelong fans. These titles include “Ready to Pump”, “I’m Here To Work” and the latest “This Is The Beat”.

Despite her busy schedule Miss Sunbeam has still found time to assist and work with many community based gay organizations such as POCC, GMAD, Jersey City Pride, Our Youth and AAOGC to name a few. Her commitment to being a positive role model in today’s selfish world clearly speaks for itself.

Some of Harmonicas Performances

“It’s one of the songs that came out of the studio sessions we had over here in L.A. this year,” Axwell told MTV News of the new indie-rock-infused track, which he promises is nothing like anything they’ve produced in the past.

“I think a good thing is always to leave what you did there and start fresh,” he said. “Like with ‘Save the World,’ for example. It’s not the ‘One’ rip-off, it’s not the ‘Miami 2 Ibiza’ rip-off, it’s just something new. It seems like it’s what people want to hear.”

Directed by Jon Watts, who has also created videos for Sleigh Bells, TV on the Radio and Fatboy Slim, the video is a marked change for Swedish House Mafia. The “Save the World” video is largely comprised of three scenes: a diner attendant on a late shift, a gentleman chilling in his car and two lovely ladies walking the streets (presumably of L.A., where the video was shot). Then, weaving between each of these settings, our subjects are attacked by separate assailants. Two ski-masked goons descend upon the diner attendant, smashing his tip jar with a baseball bat. A masked attacker crowbars the driver’s car window. And one of the beautiful lasses walking the streets is pulled away from her friend with a hand over her mouth. The victims of the various crimes are soon rescued by man’s best friend, a gang of superhero pups.

Extraordinary concept, cinematography and art direction, I wish my dog could do all of this!

Starring Dashaun “Evisu” Wesley of MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew
Director: Sailey Williams
Grooming: Danny Deleno
Wardrobe: Saira Huff

Jewelry: LARUICCI

Short presentation of the dance phenomenon “Vogue Femme”

Dashaun “Evisu” Wesley

During High School Dashaun was introduced to the underground NYC Ballroom scene where the dance phenomenon vogue was created, from that initial introduction it captivated his attention

Dashaun has been of the Ballroom scene for the last 10 years honing his unique vogue dance style. His dedication talent and ambition has landed Dashaun in international commercials for Coca Cola and inspired the creation of the Hip Hop dance “The 5000” making him an internet and media sensation.

August 2009 marked Vogue’s return to mainstream attention when Dashaun competed on the fourth season of MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew as 1/5 of the dance group Vogue Evolution. The crew’s showcase of different elements of the vogue scene, including catwalk, duck walk, spin, dip, and hands, alongside popular urban dance moves took them to the top five on ABDC. They’ve brought a refreshing new form of dance to those not familiar with the ballroom scene and their mark has been made around the world.

When Dashaun is not voguing he acts, models, and travels the country as a ballroom commentator. As a model he has worked with the likes of Metro dot Pop Magazine, Clik Magazine, B66 underwear, ZuluRose, and Triple Fat Goose.

Dashaun is also a passionate advocate of HIV/AIDS awareness. He’s worked as an HIV tester, counselor, and youth support facilitator.

“VOGUE Femm” Debut Event w/ Vogue Knight Tuesdays

 ARTICLE FEATURED IN XEX MAGAZINE: SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE

Styling: Tori Famuyiwa

Hair: Lawanda Pierre

MUA: Madison Mills

Photography/Director: Sailey Williams
Associate Editor(s) Sacha Azor, Jordan Llanes
Strategic Editor: Shae Fontaine

Kind Monitor, founded by Joshua Aaron Guthals is a Brooklyn-based alternative indie rock band. XEX became aware of KM after seeing their video “Sharks” on LOGO’s Click List and was instantly captivated. Kind Monitors music immediately became a permanent addition to the XEX Magazine photo shoot playlist. We are so thrilled to have been able to work with KM on a photo shoot and video piece; check out our xexclusive interview in the video!

Joshua Aaron Guthals a San Francisco native relocated to Brooklyn NY where he began to create the formula of the Kind Monitor sound. The music scene in New York City soon took notice of KM’s cool elegant and darkly melodic pop music. From an initial gig at a private art party in Sunset Park, a slew of shows followed at New York’s indie-rock hotspots, including Pete’s Candy Store, Joe’s Pub, and the Zipper Factory, to name a few. These shows were met by ardent response from artists and intellectuals who saw something of themselves in this delicate rock music; the publication Creative Loafing described Kind Monitor as an “Emily Dickinson of indie pop-rock.”

Over the next year, the band recorded an EP and released several music videos. Somebody Saves My Life Most Every Single Day, KM’s debut EP, available on ITunes, gathers “Cairo,” “Sharks,” and 4 other tracks of the band’s most enjoyed songs. The videos for “Cairo” and “Sharks” both received nominations on MTV’s Logo Network for Video of the Year. “Sharks” was added to MTV.com after being voted the #8 video of the year on Logo’s Click List in January of 2010. Kind Monitor also continued live performance in 2010, with headlining shows at venues like Galapagos ArtSpace and The Knitting Factory

In February 2011, Popmatters called the band’s music “a wonder of nostalgia and familiarity.” Joshua is currently completing at Master’s Degree in Music Technology at NYU and recording the band’s first full length album for his master’s thesis project. A forthcoming music video “Dizzy” will be the first single and video recorded and released during Joshua’s studies at NYU. The band’s full length album, called “Graceful Exit“, is intended for release in late 2011.

Kind Monitor- www.kindmonitor.com

Custom Vests: Saira M. Huff – www.totalcrapuninc.com

ARTICLE FEATURED IN XEX MAGAZINE: SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE

“All of my fashion films are named after the model,” says director Barnaby Roper, a photographer turned filmmaker whose previous work includes music videos for artists including Robyn and OK Go, as well as a series of edgy, adrenaline-packed and technologically innovative films for Nick Knight’s SHOWstudio. “I’m interested in showing these people… letting the viewer into the model,” he continues. “You never hear a model talk.” In a previous film with Natasa Vojnovic he changed all that, asking her to strip nude and reminisce about her upbringing in Bosnia.

When it came to working with Eniko Mihalik, he went for a different, but equally innovative approach, creating an interactive film in which users could cut between various shots of Eniko (and different clips of music) by tapping their keyboards. “I’ve done a lot of music videos and its like kids don’t even look at the three-minute videos anymore,” he says.  “They’ll watch the first 30 seconds and then they’ll skip to the end. That’s why interactive films are so good. I’ve been told that babies, little babies, love Eniko because they’re pressing buttons. That’s where that idea came from almost––kids, a baby toy.” In today’s video he displays his supreme editing skills, conducting visual experiments upon the geometry of Strubegger’s body as she spins around a fixed axis, clad in a series of increasingly exaggerated looks. It’s all driven by the shutter-like editing, inspired in part by the surrealist’s favorite parlor game: exquisite corpse. “It’s the rhythm of the edit that’s the key to the film, the key to all films,” says Roper.
Iris wears clothes by Stella McCartney, Miu Miu, Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci, Céline, Proenza Schouler, Doo Ri and accessories by Iosselliani, Pamela Love, Genevieve Jones, Made Her Think, Mawi, Carolina Amato, Kristen Farrell, Rochelle Goldberg and Fenton.

SOURCE

Styling: Inoisell Miranda

Grooming: Blue Michael Cosmetics

Interview by Associate Editor Sacha Azor

This past week, we had the chance to interview Matthew Barker and photograph and interview Jake Mossop, panelists on the LOGO show 1 Girl, 5 Gays, also broadcast on MTV Canada.

1 Girl, 5 Gays is a half-hour panel of one girl (Aliya-Jasmine) and five randomly selected gay men who discuss the taboo topics of love, sex and relationships. The panel of “5 gays” is an always-changing group of men, each having differing backgrounds and points of view.

The show’s original concept was to do a panel of straight guys/couples to discuss love & relationships; however the producers found it hard to get complete honesty from the participants. The show’s concept evolved into what the responses of 5 gay guys would be. Let’s be honest, most girls usually tend to turn to their gay bestie for an honest opinion about their relationships anyway.

The show’s quirky questions, honest and sometimes shocking answers have made it a hit! “1Girl 5 Gays” has been a sleeper hit for LOGO,” said Marc Leonard, Senior Vice-President of Multiplatform Programming for Logo. “Without much initial fanfare, and after much pleading from fans of the show on After Elton.com, it was added to our schedule and quickly became one of the most tweeted and talked about shows on the network.

Jake & Matt was kind enough to talk with XEX, and take us inside the show!

How did you get involved in 1 Girl 5 Gays? What inspired you to audition?

JAKE: I first got involved with 1g5g after meeting some of the guys from the show out and about in Toronto at a nightclub and I just started talking to them about the show and realized that it was kind of lacking having someone to really promote health and safety within a gay lifestyle but also have fun. One of the guys, Dean, on the show gave the producers my name and they called me in to audition. I went in to audition and there was me an four other guys auditioning and I guess I just really stood out and I’m glad to be on the show for that reason.

MATT: I got a call one day from my agent. I was skeptical at first because I was still VERY in the closet; my family had no idea that I was gay. So I thought to myself, “What a great way to come out!” I came out to my family on NATIONAL TELEVISION, I never told my mother about the title of show and simply explained to her that the title of the show was “under construction”. Few days later, after my premiere on the show, I got a call from my mother. “Matt, I think we need to talk about your show”. I hung up the phone and refused to speak with her for weeks because I was so scared. Everything turned out for the better and my family supports me BIG time. My mother is my best friend and she is now a huge fan of 1girl 5gays.

What has been the craziest moment on the show?

JAKE: I think the craziest moment that I’ve had on filming an episode of 1G5G is when I had to try to call out Matt Barker on his statement of saying he could do 50 push ups and so I wanted to put him to the test. I’m fairly competitive and we got down on the floor and pushed it out and I definitely beat him.

MATT: The craziest moment on the show was recently actually. I had said something about eating vagina and said, “Everyone has to try sushi at one point of their life”. Then Aliya Jasmine replied sternly, “Do NOT talk about vagina like”. I was shocked. She had put me in my place and I was on the verge of tears! I did not know what to say. I just felt like I had taken my words too far and upset her, but that was not my intention. I was about to cry so hard in the middle of the taping. I kept it in but as soon as we left the studio I found myself crying so hard I had to call my mom. I just felt like everyone hated me and I couldn’t do or say anything right.

Have you ever regretted saying anything on the show?

JAKE: There’s hasn’t been a time where I’ve ever regretted saying anything on 1g5g but I think…that you know it’s very unfiltered and authentic and so there’s sometimes where I’ve maybe talked too much about a topic and maybe have wanted to keep it personal. But I think what works so well with the show being bold and groundbreaking and pushing boundaries is that … you know you get very truthful honest answers from the guys. And we’re just regular gay men who try to represent the community. So no regrets but maybe sharing a little bit too much.

MATT: YES!! All the time, I got a lot of feedback from the fans of the show about unprotected sex. I had mentioned on the show that my boyfriend & I at the time do not use protection. I regret saying it!! I often say things that I regret. I called my sister a BITCH once and she was furious. I also regret discussing my abusive relationship with my ex-boyfriend. I hate airing my dirty laundry, but when you are in such a safe environment it’s hard not to speak about the things that are bothering you.

Is there anything you would absolutely not talk about on the show?

MATT: I don’t believe in censorship so I try to talk about everything. I try to be as honest as possible with every question. I want everyone to know who I am!! Since I am so honest, people tend to think that I am lying because my answers are not clichéd. Sometimes my honesty gets me in trouble. But I think that is why I am on the show. I stand for being a fearless gay. Staying true to yourself on TV is harder than standing naked to a packed theater. There are thousands of people watching and you can’t see them.

Who do you think reveals the most outrageous and unexpected answers?

JAKE: Out of all the guys on the show I feel that sometimes Santos reveals very explicit intimate answers about love and sex. And sometimes you know we’re just really shocked. But there was one episode I filmed with him and he was talking about a very serious time that he was that he was kind of in a negative sexual experience with another man. And I was on that episode and it’s just you don’t ex… you don’t really expect those things to come up, but they’re also important things to talk about. So I think, yeah, sometimes Santos pushes the envelope and sometimes in a good way.

MATT: Everyone is kind of typical to be honest. No one really says anything that’s not from a “safe” place. Sometimes I find that Andrew speaks from his core. Although he is controversial he speaks from a real place. “He isn’t being a “TV PERSONALITY”. He is honestly just saying what everyone else is thinking. I admire him for that and I strive to be just as confident as him in front of the camera.

Which 5 guys would be your ultimate 1 Girl 5 Gays panel?

JAKE: It’s kind of hard cause there’s so many of us but I think umm I enjoy filming the best when I’m with probably Phillip, Ian Lynch, Andrew, and one more… probably Matt Barker.

MATT: The ultimate panel would have to be, “Santos, Andrew, Philip, Ian Lynch, and Juan”.

What do you do when you’re not on the 1 Girl5Gays?  

JAKE: I’m a registered nurse in Canada and I work at a community health center so I spend most of my time working. But yeah nursing’s really important to me. And other things that I do on my spare time would be probably working on my fitness umm and hanging out with friends umm and you know just spending times with people that I love; my family and friends.

MATT: In Toronto I am known as a “Club Personality”. The brand of MATT BARKER is a fresh new look for the new generation of club goers. I have been working as a promoter since I was 18. When I first started people thought I was nothing but a “social climber slut”. My brand was inspired and co-created by MATT SIMS. I am still very new but my parties are being analyzed on an international perspective. Toronto is finally becoming one of the number one spots to party. Personally, I feel that my work in the night life/entertainment scene has changed the way people go out. I am working on creating a new 19+ sub-culture that allows straights and gays to party at the same time. Both of these demographics have been afraid of each other for decades! It’s 2011 and it’s time to party with one another.

As much as I LOVE to party I also like to chill out. I can be found at the movies at least once a week. I also like to go up to my parents place and recharge my mind. Parties are more than glamour and glitter. It’s a business; a creative business that requires my mind, body and soul. I have to put my life into my career or I will fall flat on my face.

What is the Canadian club scene like?

MATT: The Canadian club scene is fresh. Toronto and Montreal are the main cities to party in. Toronto offers sweat and heart. Everyone in Toronto is VERY competitive. The guests that come to my parties are always decked out head to toe in the latest fashions. If you show up to one of my parties looking like a mess you can be sure that your picture will be spread across Facebook faster than a Ke$ha herpes outbreak. I often relate my life to a music video. The night always starts at my loft with about 60 people. Everyone is talking and my photographer CHELSEA WARING is always having a camera in everyone’s face. Toronto is about the people. Promoters used to tell the guests where to go. Now it’s up to the people, they tell me what they want, and I make it happen for them.

How would you describe your personal fashion sense?

MATT: I try my best to look like a “KING WEST SCUM BAG”, which means I like to look like I just stepped out of a GQ magazine. Blazers, Bombers, and the finest shoes accompany me to all my parties. My favorite designers are J. Lindeberg, Tom Ford, Philip Sparks, Michael Kors, Ben Sherman, and Louis Vuitton. But sometimes I look like a mess which is fun sometimes! I hate looking to pretty because than people don’t feel like they can connect with me. I just want to be liked for being as REAL as possible.

Jake! What did you do and see on this trip to New York?

JAKE: This is actually my first time to New York. And it’s actually my first photo shoot with… ever for the show with XEX Magazine. And so other than being here with XEX Magazine I was in town for a water polo tournament. I play in a gay men’s water polo league and the New York team here hosted a tournament and so as you can tell by my voice cheering and yelling and screaming. We had a really good time both in the pool and outside of the pool.

What do you think about the public’s reaction to the show?

JAKE: I think that you know 1g5g is so great because it asks questions that people wanna know the answer to. And so I think that the public reaction, although it’s unfiltered and a little bit bold, it’s kind of what people have been wanting. It’s real, authentic, and so far the feedback to all of us on the show has been really great.

MATT: I think that the MTV and LOGO audiences love the show. Its perfect timing and I have heard nothing but great feedback. In a matter of months my Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/@imattbarker} has gone from 200 people to over 5000. The show is progressive and is allowing television to push the censorship boundaries. I want to create lifestyle art with the show. I want everyone to know what it’s really like to be gay and 1g5g shows the perfect portrayal.

BEHIND THE SCENES AND XEXCLUSIVE VIDEO INTERVIEW w/ Jake Mossop

…..

1 Girl, 5 Gays was also nominated for a 2011 NewNowNextAward for “Tv You Betta Watch.” If you’ve not seen it, 1 Girl 5 Gays catch new episodes on Logo TV Monday nights at 11pm or MTV Canada Friday nights at 11pm.

ARTICLE FEATURED IN XEX MAGAZINE: SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE

Short Film By

Director-Roy Raz
Producers-Roy Raz and Eitan Tal
Cinematography-Roman Linetsky
Editor-Ornit Levi
Styling-Gustavo Matias Franco
Make up / Hair-Tomas Shemesh and Noga Tamir
Post production-Assaf Yeger

LOVE THIS! This video captures everything XEX is! Fashion, Art, Design, Bizarre!

Love the pacing and the imagery vs. the music by The Irrepressibles.

A MUST WATCH!