Lifestyle

5 Queens, NYC Artists You Should Know

Published

3 years ago

October 29, 2021

Queens is probably one of the most under-discovered places in New York. It is usually known by sports fans all over the world because of the Flushing Meadows Corona Park, home of the annual US Open tennis championship. As well as Citi Field which is another sports complex, situated in the Park. But most people are unaware that Queens is also home to many great, emerging artists.

Some of these talented artists in Queens are mentioned below:

AJ Lavilla

Born in Iloilo, Philippines, AJ Lavilla is a self-taught artist, currently based in Queens, New York. He was introduced to art at the age of eleven and learned a great deal by observing the works of his favorite artists which include Picasso, Murakami, Basquiat, and KAWS.

AJ Lavilla’s main interest is in street art and graffiti. His work is unique in the sense that he uses pop culture icons and vivid colors to bring his art to life. He is also known for the use of inspirational quotes in his work. The Queens artist has graced many walls of New York with his murals, including the World Trade Center.

OG Millie

Kamille Ejerta, known more popularly by her street name OG Millie is another Filipino American artist. The New York artist is widely known for the amazing art that she creates despite being visually impaired. Art became her safe escape after she suffered a vision-threatening emergency.

Her art can be easily identified in a sea of paintings because of its uniqueness. She uses vintage decorative mirrors as a canvas to paint portraits with acrylic paint. She is also a mural artist and her work can be seen on walls throughout New York. Her paintings are an embodiment of old school meets new school. OG Millie’s art focuses on colorful portraits of iconic figures.

Shaun Lee NYC

Shaun Lee NYC one of the most talented artists from Queens, New York. Specializing in a broad style thats unique enough to distinguish. He started developing his art career at a very young age, which prompted him to participate in many programs since a child. He has showcased work in art shows all around the world, from Paris, to Quebec, and Montreal. To residences in New York Cities night clubs such as the Freehold NY.

The Queens artist is widely known for his unique art style which includes unique shades of red in majority of his canvases. However diverse in his mediums with ability to control a spray-can like a brush. He currently has murals displayed in the heart of Queens and has plans to create many more. His artwork is popular for converting traditional art ideas into contemporary pieces.

Savior Elmundo

Savior Elmundo is a New York artist, dancer, and filmmaker. He is well known for the 3-D letter work that he started experimenting with, in 2015. Since then, the 3-D letters have become his trademark. His art icons include Dali, Picasso, Andy Warhol, Matisse, and Frida.

Elmundo loves playing with different textures and he does a lot of message work. His art can also be identified by his logo, ‘Make Art’. According to him, his logo represents all forms of art and is a simple way of reminding people to make art.

Turtlecaps

Turtlecaps is a Queens-born graffiti artist. He started practicing his art in the late 1980s by drawing on streets, train tracks, etc. True to his name, Turtlecaps, his main character is that of a turtle.

This character is made up of a turtle shell, with Mickey mouse shoes, a spray can cap for a head, and a wind-up key at the back. The Queens artist spends his time painting murals of his representative character on the streets of New York, with various adaptations.

Lifestyle

Kristien Surya Jewelry: A New Standard in Affordable Luxury Jewelry

Published

13 hours ago

December 19, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo credit: Kristien Surya Jewelry

Byline: Sarah Kingston-Powell

Kristien Surya Jewelry combines cultural heritage with contemporary design from its Newport Beach headquarters. Launched in November 2023, the brand draws from Western, Indian, Chinese, and Islamic design elements. The signature pieces include the Hamsa hands collection with natural gemstones and the organically shaped Sunyata series, both crafted in sterling silver, solid 14K, and 18K gold.

“Each piece tells a story of cultural connection through carefully selected materials and meaningful symbolism,” says founder Kristien, who bootstrapped the company as its sole angel investor.

Social Impact Through Accessible Pricing

Despite its recent launch, the brand experienced significant early success, reflecting strong consumer interest. With global shipping and plans to expand its reach, Kristien Surya Jewelry is poised to attract an international audience that values culturally meaningful and socially responsible luxury.

While fine jewelry typically commands premium prices, Kristien Surya offers installment payment options and competitive pricing without compromising materials or craftsmanship.

A portion of sales supports the National Pediatric Cancer Association’s Sunshine Project, which develops non-toxic cancer treatments for children. Proceeds also help fund education and fair wage initiatives for women and children facing economic hardships.

Sustainability and Customization Focus

The brand’s ECO-LOVE Program incorporates lab-grown gems alongside natural stones, addressing growing consumer interest in sustainable luxury goods. Market research from McKinsey indicates that 73% of millennials are willing to spend more on sustainable brands.

“We select natural gemstones and crystals not just for aesthetics, but for their unique properties that promote emotional and spiritual well-being,” Sun explains. Customers can personalize their amulets by choosing specific gemstones, creating individual meaning for each piece.

Market Strategy and Growth

Currently serving North America through its e-commerce platform, Kristien Surya plans to expand to additional online marketplaces. “Our goal is more than about selling jewelry—we’re building a brand that celebrates diverse cultural heritage while making fine jewelry accessible to more people,” says Kristien. The company maintains a strong social media presence on Instagram and Facebook to engage with customers and showcase its cultural influences.

Kristien Surya Jewelry sets itself apart with its focus on cultural inspiration, sustainability, and social impact. Leveraging digital platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the brand aims to foster a vibrant online community. Special promotions, such as Blind Box Gifts for early followers, enhance its engagement strategy.

Design Philosophy and Production

Each collection draws inspiration from specific cultural elements: Western philosophical traditions, Indian spirituality, Chinese harmony concepts, and Islamic artistic patterns. The manufacturing process combines traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques to maintain quality while achieving competitive pricing.

The Hamsa hands collection features double gemstone settings—an innovation within its price category. Production standards match luxury specifications: all pieces undergo multiple quality control checks and come with authentication certificates.

Future Developments

Kristien Surya plans to introduce new collections quarterly while maintaining its core design philosophy. The company’s near-term objectives include expanding its online presence and developing additional customization options for customers.

The brand recently began developing partnerships with retail locations in major U.S. cities, though specific details remain private. Current data suggests strong market potential for culturally-inspired fine jewelry at accessible price points, particularly among millennial and Gen Z consumers who prioritize meaning and value in their purchases.