How did the idea for "Pin-up Project" come about?
Actually a soldier, stationed in Iraq, viewed my online portfolio and sent me an email complimenting my photos and requesting that I send him pictures of myself wearing camouflage or stars and stripes. I always think big and I immediately knew that the soldier’s request reflected an overall need that was far greater than just one soldier and one model. So I sent out a mass email in my Yahoo Group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/meccasworld) and several others calling for beautiful models and other talented individuals to volunteer their time and talents for the Military Pin-Up Project. Both the response and caliber was unbelievable. I still have to pinch myself sometimes!
What is your position within the project?
I wear many hats with this project. I am the creator, CEO and a pin-up.
How has the project grown or changed since its inception?
This project seems to evolve every week. I truly believe God is smiling on this effort because it has attracted people that are helping expand the vision. Three people in particular have added components crucial to the development of the Military Pin-Up Project. Initially the project was to include only photographs of the models. One day I received an email from a graphic designer and former member of the U.S. Army by the name of Byron Harris. He emailed me offering to create illustrated pin ups of the models—something that had never crossed my mind. When I saw the detail and creativity of his work, I knew I wanted him aboard. Then, one day out of the blue, I got an email from an entertainment attorney named Paul Gardner, II. To my surprise, he offered to do all the legal work for the project pro bono. I looked at my project and my team and there was one thing missing—a website. So, on a whim, I decided to make a post in my yahoo group for a web designer. I must have the best yahoo group in the world! I got a response from one of my members within the same day. Craig Lovatt of 6ix 8ight Designs built the perfect site for what we want to accomplish.
How large is the team that currently assists you with running this project?
This is my favorite part, where I get to acknowledge the wonderful people that are helping to make this possible. These are people of incredible talent and great heart. Furthermore they are professional and great at what they do. Models: Aminata Camara, Angela Boloubassi, Ahni Luv, Kareem Pettaway, Mei Ling Taylor and myself; Photographers: Kendal Carr and Tim Rogers; Make-up artist: LaTonya Winters; Illustrators: Byron Harris (Graphix Studio B), Tee Windslow (Tee’s Art), Will Capers, Chris “Broadway” Romero (G-Unit Films), Olatokunbo Betiku (Art Tron); Graphic Designers: Derek Carroll (Beyond Graphx), Greenlight Printing, Web Designer: Craig Lovatt (6ix 8ight Designs); Attorney: Paul Gardner, II; Public Relations: Medina Watson (Lady Monarch PR). Visit www.pinupproject.com for more information about our team members and for their contact information.
During an average work week, how many hours do you spend working on the project?
That’s difficult to answer. I’m always working, whether it’s on the Military Pin-Up Project or something else. But we do work on the project everyday. More work has to be put forth right now because the project is still being launched. I think the load will lighten once the first series of pin-ups gets sponsorship and is shipped to the soldiers.
What's the most challenging part of maintaining or operating your website?
Well Craig of 6ix 8ight Designs would have to answer that! (Laughs) I send him several emails a day and I’m sure that can be a bit much. He never complains and always gives me a quick turn around. I’m sure I drive Derek from Beyond Graphx up a wall as well. But like Craig, he is patient and professional. I’m extremely meticulous.
What are your goals at the current time for "Pin-up Project"?
My immediate goals for the project are to attract sponsors, to cover the printing costs of the pin-up cards. We are looking for sponsorship on both the individual and corporate levels. We cannot ship the cards without sponsors. Please make your donations at www.pinupproject.com. Some generous people have already stepped up to the plate but we need more. Also, in the fashion of true pin-up art of the 50’s and 60’s, I am looking to incorporate models (both male and female) that range from everyday people to high profile entertainers. I’d really love to get Mya or Amerie for the project as well as some NFL and NBA players. Please stay tuned, some high profile models are in the works.
What are some other projects you're working on, or anticipate working on in the future?
I am looking to expand the pin-up project to also benefit other causes such as cancer, HIV/AIDS and poverty. Look for some independent projects like my 2006 calendar. I also plan to do television in the near future.
What part of operating "Pin-up Project" gives you the most enjoyment?
That’s a tough question because I love every bit of it—from modeling to the administrative part. I guess I feel good about the purpose behind what we are doing. American fathers, mothers, sons and daughters are risking their lives in far away places for reasons that we may argue to be right or wrong. These 4x6 pin-up cards won’t bring our troops home but I am hoping they will bring them some relief and help them get through their tour of duty.
Do you work a regular 9 to 5 job or is "Pin-up Project" your primary project?
I am a radio personality on Majic 102.3 FM, the number one station in the DC market. You can catch me on the air from 12 Midnight to 6AM Sunday through Thursday and on Saturdays from 10AM to 3PM. You can also catch me hosting concerts and various events around the city. That’s how I pay my bills. The pin-up project is a volunteer effort and I don’t make money from it.
What's your opinion of the industry regarding ethnic models today?
I think the modeling industry is like any other industry. It is what you make of it. There are always going to be hurdles and shady characters that may be the gatekeepers to certain opportunities. But we as individuals hold the keys to our success. As long as people realize that, nothing can stop them.
If you could start this project all over again, from scratch, what would you do differently?
I would have begun seeking sponsors when the project was just an idea.
What are the positive and negatives you've experienced when working with models?
Interestingly enough, most of my experiences with models have been positive. The models that are a part of this project, as well as those that I’ve worked with in the past, are beautiful, intelligent and good people. Of course I’ve come across a few bad apples but I ignored and avoided them. I don’t find it necessary to work in stressful or drama filled situations. But maybe I have the luxury to pick and choose modeling projects because it is not my full time career.
What does "Pin-up Project" offer it's visitors that they won't necessarily or can't find on similar websites?
First let me say that the Military Pin-Up website (www.pinupproject.com) is unique within itself. I spend a lot of time on the web and I haven’t come across a site like it. We are offering visitors to the site the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of women and men of diverse ethnicities while supporting a great cause. How many humanitarian modeling sites have you seen on the Internet? Also, the pin-up illustrations add a unique touch to the project and the site.
Are there any current issues being dealt with today that cause you the most concern?
I am concerned that Americans are losing our humanity. It seems to me that sometimes our political views and the point we are trying to prove becomes more important to us than people’s lives. And that terrifies me.
Ok...unfortunately there will always be 'haters' lurking around. Have you experienced that since starting "Pin-up Project" and if so, how have you dealt with it?
Haters are not a problem for me. I love haters. As long as I have haters I know I’m on the right track. When everybody loves me and what I’m doing, that’s when I need to reevaluate some things. (laughs) No seriously, the most difficult part of the project is getting people to see your vision. There have been some people I approached about the project that were not supportive or agreed to participate then flaked out. But that’s understandable, most people want to help you after your effort is already successful and they can see the direct benefit for themselves. It takes a special individual to recognize the vision and get in on the ground level.
Tell us some of things you couldn't live without?
Hmmm…I can’t live without the Internet, CNN, music and sweet potato cake from Morgan’s Family Fish Fry.
What advice would you give to people looking into creating or starting a project similiar to "Pin-up Project"?
Dive right in and do it even if you don’t have a team at first. If you work hard, have a clear vision and truly believe in what you’re doing, you will attract the right people.
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