Joseph Montez White, Artist/Fashion Illustrator

I just got back from what has got to be one of the most unique cities I have visited in a long time. That would be New Orleans aka "The Big Easy" or "The Crescent City." New Orleans is an absolutely fantastic and wonderful place to visit for great food, music, arts, architecture, shopping, festivals such as the New Orleans Jazz Festival, Mardi Gra, Essence Music Festival, and so much more! The people of New Orleans are indeed quite strong and still offer that Southern hospitality despite the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina. While there, I ventured onto Magazine Street, famous for its retail and antique shops, and discovered an upscale space called Kunflama.

Located at 1920 Magazine street, Kunflama is a one stop shop where you can grab a bite to eat, shop at the retail boutique managed by fashion designer Kano Branon [you will hear more about him this month], and discover and/or purchase work from some talented artists in the city. One such talent I ran into while at Kunflama was Joseph Montez White, artist and fashion illustrator.

White, a native of Ohio, moved to New Orleans after obtaining his Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Paul Robeson Center at Central State University. Once in New Orleans, he continued to refine his skills obtaining a degree from the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts. Today, he is a teacher at the Orleans Parish School system and his gaouche and charcoal techniques in his work makes him highly sought after. Enjoy his very talented work and if you want to purchase or reach him, contact the store, Kunflama, at 504-586-1606.