Upon entering Ken Barber Clothing, you are embraced with an astonishing combination of fashion and art. The décor welcomes you with an aura of feng shui and artistry; ties displayed precise and with flair, even the men’s suits are hung within rotating steel picture frames. The walls are adorned with the talents of local artists and you experience an uncanny conflict of interest because you are torn between shopping and perusing the art.




Fortunately for me, I didn’t have to make the decision; the evening was about the presentation of a talented local chef and artist, Mark J. Phillips. Professionally trained in the art of culinary creation; this artist and creator of Southern Temptation, where the ‘Renaissance of Artistry: Culinary, Visual, and Beaded Arts are one’, has made quite an impression.



When I asked about the transition from cooking to art, Mark stated:

“It was always about art. When I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always wanted to be an artist…but, (he says with a laugh) I had always heard the struggling part before the artist part.”

This led Mr. Phillips to begin his training in the art of cookery, but painting and taking pictures were never too far. Although as a chef, Mr. Phillips can whip up a culinary palate pleasing creation; to see his artistry is something to behold. In addition to his pieces that were visible at Ken Barber Clothing, I was granted an opportunity to see other pieces of Mr. Phillips. Thought provoking and visually pleasing; I will be certain to keep an ear to the waves for another show. As a lover of arts, I had to ask his inspirations:
 
“Of course, I could say ‘Life’…but it’s more than that. It’s the discovery of going beyond what I had been taught and learned. Like going beyond seeing a tree to seeing the beauty of that same tree.”



I am certainly pleased that I was able to join a very hospitable Ken Barber and additional guests to bask in that same beauty that Mark J. Phillips shared with us last night. Also, I will make certain that I visit Ken Barber Clothing in the near future. Although the apparel leans more to the male persuasion; there were still some hot tees designed by Kamar Zachery that I need in my closet.
 

-kj
 
 
Special Thanks:
Tia Greene, Tia Greene Marketing www.tiagreenemarketing.com
Ken Barber, Ken Barber Clothing www.kenbarberclothing.com
Mark J. Phillips, Southern Temptation www.southerntemptation.com
Kamar Zachery, OemaTakorr Fashions www.oematakorr.com