Mickalene Thomas has redefined contemporary art by reclaiming the Black female body and celebrating the complexities of Black womanhood. As a Black lesbian artist, her work explores race, gender, sexuality, and beauty, creating a bold visual language that challenges societal norms. Her work remains an act of resistance, elevating Black femininity and inspiring critical conversations about identity and inclusivity. For this issue of AS IF magazine, photographer and editor-in-chief Tatijana Shoan collaborated with Mickalene once again to showcase the many evolving facets of the artist.
Artist Alexander Yulish explores a compelling balance of contrasts—order and chaos, light and dark. His layered canvases, marked by luminous pastels and bold strokes, pulse with tension and emotion, offering a visceral experience that invites viewers to confront the complexity of the human condition.
ATO: Aesthetic Treasure of Origin presents a captivating traveling exhibition featuring the work of six Korean Masters. Curated by Korean actor Kim Hee Seon, the exhibition explores Korea’s unique identity, nature, and philosophy and profoundly reflects Korea’s artistic traditions and innovative future.
Actor Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Emmy-nominated for the HBO Max streaming Hacks, captivates as Marcus, Deborah Vance’s loyal COO, adding depth to the show’s themes of ambition and identity. For this editorial, we explored their love of fashion, theater’s influence on their trajectory, and career-defining moments.
CJ Hendry is a contemporary artist celebrated for her hyperrealistic colored-pencil drawings that critique consumerism with stunning precision. Known for pushing boundaries, Hendry has expanded into immersive installations like Flower Market, blending fine art with experiential elements. Her independent spirit and visionary approach redefine how we experience contemporary art.
Sicilian artist Domenico Pellegrino stands at the vibrant crossroads of tradition and innovation, channeling the essence of Sicily into contemporary art. Pellegrino’s work masterfully bridges the folklore of his island’s heritage with bold, modern aesthetics and pop culture references while inviting viewers into a world where myth and modernity coexist.
Model Grace Mahary bewitched us the moment we saw her walk for Tommy Hilfiger back in 2014 and we have been following her career that has since come to include social activism, trained sommelier, and mother of two. For this issue Grace was photographed wearing Tommy Hilfiger, bringing us full circle.
Tommy Dorfman brings effortless ease and transformative energy to every role, blending personal evolution with creative expression. A trans actor, director, and author, Tommy’s work transcends performance, channeling vulnerability and truth into storytelling that connects deeply with the human experience.
This issue of AS IF magazine is a rich amalgamation of artistic expression, personal narratives, cutting-edge fashion, the season’s best collaboration items, and more, ensuring that readers are entertained and inspired from start to finish.