Welcome to www.OXimages.com

As soon as I arrived at the Ritz Ybor for MAGNUM OPUS, on November 14th 2009, there was an intense eclectic energy flowing out of the building. There was only 5min. until showtime and the line was literally wrapped around the building to get in. The drumming circle out front was a FABULOUS distraction for the anxious crowd and helped set the tone for the event. Fortunately, because I was photographing the event, I was whisked in quickly. Special thanks to Carla Vaughan for giving me the premium view to capture this FABULOUS event! There were artists lined walls, not a square foot was barren. Guests were encouraged to wear fashion to the tee in green and white colors, and the colorful people of Tampa did just that! There were several visual performing artists, bands, coupled with a body thumping sound system and light show that electrified the crowd. It was a challenge to keep the camera in focus, as the building was literally moving to the music.

The theme revolved around ecological creation and self-preservation. Hundreds of artists were there, and you can visit http://squareoneflorida.com/ to find out exactly who was there, featured, danced, sang, etc. Square One operates in Tampa, Florida and New York City, NY offering creative and professional services that include event planning, graphic design, marketing, public relations, photography and custom artwork. Square One recently won the 2009 Creative Loafing Best Of The Bay Award for Best Freakin' Awesome Events. Square One is headed by Okesene Tilo with Jason Moriarty and Kat Wilson. Up next on the Square One Calendar is the Annual MAC AIDS Fundraiser this winter and the fifth Square One Creative Event scheduled for Spring 2010.

Ox Images wanted to give a special thank you to Okesene Tilo and Maria Capitano Pardo. These were the two people that made the biggest impression on me during the event. Maria is the Bella Danza Artistic Director and performed that evening with Tribeca Salon and Becky Shop. She is also a pioneer in the art community, and is working hard to bring real culture and cultured people back to Ybor. As co-owner of the Ritz Ybor, supporter of the gay and lesbian community, and artist herself, she is well on her way to making that a reality. Square One's last event, La Di Da, saw a record 2,400 individuals in attendance. Surely this event surpassed that, so the evil plan to bring culture back to Ybor is working...MMMMWAAAHAHAHAHA (evil laugh!)

It should go smoothly working with talent such as Okesene Tilo, the executive director of the event. Everyone I photographed/met wanted to see "Oke" (pronounced O-Key) and shake his hand or give him a hug. He was kind, gracious, humble and clearly enjoying his calling in life. This man surprised me, as most event coordinators are quite egotistical and arrogant. I could see immediately why people were seeking him out in the crowd after speaking with him for just a few moments. Oh, and an added bonus...he's "family!" Thank you Oke and Maria for sharing your talents with Tampa. Best wishes with all of your FABULOUS ideas!