Urban Flair on Krog Street

If you've ever visited Krog Street on the Beltline in Atlanta, Georgia, you will be amazed at all of the detailed and creative artwork that adorn the eccentric area. Anyone with an eye for art, will definitely desire to capture some of these moments that are bound to change as the beltline is frequented by all types of people - especially those who are gifted in the art of grafitti. Hence, the reason that I felt the need to capture a few memories here!

On this cold particular morning, it was not hard for my photographer and I to find a background to accent my mood as well as the outfit that I was wearing. The colorful backgrounds of graffiti art, with its meaningful (and some not-so-menaingful) messages, enhanced the basic ensemble that I pieced together. Simple, yet complicated - just like some of the art that my eyes beheld - my outfit made a statement of urban flair with a somewhat artsy groove. My black sweater dress with a zip pocket on the left sleeve was purchased off of the clearance rack at Forever 21 for 10 bucks. Underneath I wore some damaged, distressed shorts that were cut off from some old jeans and designed by me.  I added a pair of fishnet leggings underneath the shorts to add an edgy feel. I also tied my army fatigue hooded jacket that I copped from Rainbow Shops for a low $15 around my waist. I alternated in some of the photos between my black faux suede ankle boots and my lace-up combat boots which I luckily found while thrifting for $9.50. You'll never believe this though! My purse - an authentic black leather Tory Burch with chained strap cross-body  - was also purchased at the thrift store for a grand $8.99 plus tax! Talking about a steal!! I accented this outfit with round ankara/denim dangle earrings handcrafted by yours truly - YcraM (ME) and a $3 three-tier opal shell necklace from H&M. I crammed a variety of bracelets on each arm along with a gold Anne Klein watch that I've had since 2003 - I think that constitutes vintage, right? I decided to untwist my twist-out and allow my hair to fall naturally into a soft curly afro.

This photoshoot was a very humbling experience as I gained acquaintance with some not so fortunate residents of this park, which is bordered by some of Atlanta's most luxurious and contemporary homes. Despite their living conditions, they seemed to have a joy that was indescribable as much as it was a bit confounding. I was amazed at the sense of humor that they possessed despite their circumstances. However, engaging with them brought on a spirit of humility (and I must admit a little guilt) as I reflected on how blessed I am and have been even when I've felt otherwise. As my photographer and I were leaving, we thanked God for His blessings and prayed for those residents' well-being. On the way to the car, we noticed "BLACK LIVES MATTER" spray-painted on the side of a walkway. After engaging with my new friends in the park, it was confirmed that EVERY LIFE MATTERS! This was a such a wonderful day!!

Intercessory Prayer: YcraM...Because I Can!!!

Photo Credit: Tangie Renee Photography