Long Live The Lion: Irv, The Artist

Irving "Irv" Banister is an artist that displays his talent through several mediums such as commissioned paintings, customized clothing, tattoos, and smoke-n-paint sessions. His brand, LongLiveTheLion is an ongoing theme that is shown in a lot of his artwork.

Photo credit: Irving Banister.

What inspired you to become an artist?

What inspired me to become an artist was seeing other people in my field of work thriving and that let me know that my dream was possible.

Which artists do you look up to and why?

An artist I look up to is named John Born. He began his career as an artist in a similar way that I did and now he sells art to many people across the world and that motivated me to work hard.

Did you ever think you would end up in this industry?

My first dream was actually playing basketball and my goal was to play overseas, but I never got the chance to do so. So I focused on making art my new plan.

What has been your favorite experience as an artist?

My favorite experience as an artist was painting at an event for Forever 21. My other memory I enjoy was my first Artshow, it was something magical about it I can’t explain.

What do you believe you contribute to the world around you?

I believe my contribution to the world would be to give back to those that are in need and help bring positivity to the world in my own way.

What projects do you want to pursue?

My first objective is to reach a level that I’m self employed off my content. I’m in the process of learning different crafts such as tattooing.

What do you want your legacy to be as an artist?

I want my legacy as an artist to be one of the most unique and creative artists in the world. I also want to build a company I can give to my children for generations and start a new process of making a household name.

To find out more about Irving Banister, follow him on Twitter: @Thenames_irv, Instagram: @l0nglivetheli0n, and Snapchat: irvballislife3.

Make sure to follow Victor Media Productions on Instagram and Facebook too! Search @victor.media.pro and we'll followback!

#blackhistorymonth #blackartistsmatter #VMP

Aaron Chokbengboun of Aaron Scott Photography

Aaron Chokbengboun became a photographer/videographer when he first moved to Houston in 2016. Surrounding himself with peers that worked in social media inevitably allowed him to network with photographers and videographers.

"Through the years, I've met friends through social media who were photographers/videographers," said Aaron. "From there, my mind opened up to a world that brought out my creative side of things and next day I had a camera in my hand creating images that no one could do!"

Photo Credit: Aaron Scott Photography

Aaron notes Sam Kolder as one of his inspirations in the field of photography and videography.

"Getting to travel around the globe displaying the skillset you have through the lens of your camera and drone is pretty darn awesome," said Aaron. "Honestly, it's eye catching to watch Sam Kolder videos. After you watch a video it leaves you thinking man this could be me one day living my dreams being able to do what I love best.... Capturing your own creative images to display for the world to see."

Photo Credit: Aaron Scott Photography

The interesting thing about the world of art, is that you can begin a creative journey at any time. Aaron bravely exited his comfort zone and began his creative career just three years ago.

"If it wasn't for my friends asking me to help with wedding projects I probably wouldn't be doing any photography or videography," said Aaron. "This industry has pushed me out of my comfort zone and for that I’m thankful!! Because I wouldn’t be doing this if they didn’t give me a chance."

With his client list ranging from corporate businesses to everyday people, Aaron believes that the best experience as an artist is being able to meet people from all walks of life.

"Everyone is always looking for pictures, so everyone reaches out to me about it and it gets me a chance to link up with old time friends," said Aaron. "Also, my favorite experience is getting to shoot our local celebrity Paul Wall and Slim Thug, now that is a combination right there!"

The local photographer and videographer notes that spreading positivity is the key to his motivation.

"If you look all around you, all you hear is negativity roaming around this world," said Aaron. "...My goal contribution is to leave everyone smiling and spreading my positivity through the works of photography/videography!"

Photo Credit: Aaron Scott Photography

When asked, what he wants his legacy to be as an artist, Aaron responded:

"I want everyone to know that everyone started from the ground up to be where we stand now. For me, I’m pursuing a dream to become the next Sam Kolder showcasing my own creative side and show a more dynamic range of editing that no one has seen!" To see more of Aaron Chokbengboun's work or to inquire about bookings, visit him on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Upcoming Events in Houston: October 10-13

The 41st Houston Italian Festival is back and will last all weekend long! There will be musical performances from DJ Italia, The Fab 5, The Shades of Gray Band, the Tarantellas Italian Folk Dance Group, and Vince King. The festival will take place at the University of St. Thomas and there will be a variety of activities for your entire family to enjoy! Admission is free today (Friday) until 4pm, then $8 for adults and free for children under 12 the rest of the weekend.

Courtesy of the University of St. Thomas.

To purchase discounted tickets, make reservations for festival activities, or view the weekend schedule, visit the festival Facebook page or houstonitalianfestival.com.

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Courtesy of Bayou City Arts Festival.

Are you looking for a festival with less wine, but more FOOD TRUCKS?! The Bayou City Art Festival will be underway on Saturday and Sunday. Hosted by Art Colony Association, Inc., the annual festival raises money for local non-profit organizations. Hundreds of artists and vendors will be in attendance to showcase and sell their work to the public, so bring some spending money! Whether you want to listen to live music or create crafts with your kids, the Bayou City Art Festival has the family-friendly entertainment you've been seeking!

Photo by Clifton Henri.

The festival will take place in Downtown, Houston at 901 Bagby St. For more information on this year's featured artist, Clifton Henri, or to purchase tickets, visit www.artcolonyassociation.org.

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Courtesy of Historic Market Square Houston.

Expecting not a drop of rain in sight and a high temperature of 78 Degrees, the Market Square block party is sure to motivate you to celebrate the fall season and all it has to offer! Historic Market Square Houston has organized the ultimate Día de Muertos pre-celebration festivities for this weekend. There will be art installations, activities, and live music to honor National Hispanic Heritage Month before it comes to an end next week.

A few artists, venues, restaurants, and bars that will be participating include David Beck's Tejano Weekend, El Tule, 1 Stop Shop, Aprons-N-More, Bellaflor, Bowtique, Designs by Aida, and #1 Garden Bling by GASP.

The Dia de Muertos Market Square Block Party will take place on Saturday, October 12th from 6pm-2pm at 301 Milam St. To find out if your favorite artist or venue is participating, or to see what time your chosen activity is taken place, visit the event Facebook page.

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Courtesy of the Annual Galveston Greek Festival.

Lastly, if you are not hungover from all the weekend festivities, go and have some fun at the beach! The 36th Annual Greek Festival will take place on both Saturday & Sunday and will have all the gyros, shish kabobs, and pastries you could dream of! There's a petting zoo for the kids or you can take a tour of the Greek Orthodox Church. To keep a memory of this family outing, take a trip to the gift shop and find authentic Greek jewelry, paintings, and...Christmas ornaments? Yes. It's NEVER too early to start Christmas shopping!

The festival will take place at the Greek Orthodox Church, 714 19th Street. Festival hours are Saturday 11am - 8pm, and Sunday noon to 6pm. To find out parking information or what other activities will be taking place, click here to see Galveston's activity calendar.

#events #art #painters #livemusic #music #diademuertos #houston #festivals