RITUAL DRAMA TRIPTYCH

Multidimensional but far from a reason for concern, Phlegm is a New Orleans born and based multidisciplinary artist who also penned the mantra “Everything You Love About New Orleans Is Because of Black People” seen on Afropunk, in Interview Magazine, on the marquee at the famous Joy Theater, shared by New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell and on countless lifestyle accessories. Phlegm’s work serves to exist as a Ritual Drama of their personal Black universe, braiding together all the loose ends of Black ethos, Black influence, and Black inspiration into one. This is accomplished through Phlegm’s portrait photography, which makes a production about the necessity and value of Black spiritual presence. Swimming in the rich cultural hotpot of New Orleans, costume and face paint, procession and the visual transformation of the body play import- ant roles in communicating Plegm’s message. It is serious and irreverent, heavy and heavenly, calculated and casual, just like the living spirit of New Orleans.