2022 KRESGE ARTS FELLOW: DEIDRE D.S.SENSE SMITH

“ON MY DETROIT EVERYTHING”

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“On My Detroit Everything” is a captivating short documentary that follows the life of Deidre D.S. Sense Smith, a native Detroiter, singer/songwriter, emcee, and a first-time faculty member at the University of Michigan.

Her course, “Ideas With a Beat: Hip-hop Songwriting,” is the first of its kind at the university and teaches students about the history and cultural significance of hip-hop, as well as its linguistic influence on American Culture.

On My Detroit Everything is a film by Timothy Blackman II in collaboration with Deidre D.S.SENSE Smith. Series produced by Donald Harrison and Kresge Arts in Detroit.

“On My Detroit Everything” is an inspiring tribute to Deidre’s artistry and activism and a celebration of the unique spirit of Detroit.

A DACOSTA STREET STUDIOS PRODUCTION

Blaxploitation Matters is a captivating and enlightening film review series dedicated to celebrating and exploring the significance of Blaxploitation films. Produced by Dacosta Street Studios, each episode takes you on a journey through the influential era of Blaxploitation cinema, highlighting iconic films, memorable performances, and the cultural impact of Blaxploitation movies. 

Whether you’re a fan of the classics or new to the Blaxploitation genre, this series will deepen your appreciation for the rich history and enduring legacy of these groundbreaking films. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Blaxploitation Matters and discover why these movies still resonate today.

Play Video about Blaxploitation Matters | Episode 1: Truck Turner
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Play Video about Blaxploitation Matters | Episode 3: Sheba, Baby (Starring Pam Grier) thumbnail

WALLACE

A DACOSTA STREET STUDIOS PRODUCTION

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“Wallace” is a compelling documentary that tells the story of a small town in Louisiana and their recovery efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Ida. Through powerful interviews and raw footage, the film portrays the immense challenges facing the community, including a troubled history of racial tensions, economic hardships, and environmental injustices.

As the team from Dacosta Street Studios and Taste The Diaspora work alongside local volunteers to organize the fundraising events, they confront the harsh realities of the town’s struggles. 

Despite the immense challenges, the generosity of donors and the team’s efforts bring a glimmer of hope to the community, inspiring them to continue their fight for justice and equality.

SECOND & FOREST

“GOOD MORNING”

(AN EXCERPT FROM THE TELEVISION SERIES, SECOND & FOREST)

Good morning (An excerpt from the televisions series, Second & Forest)
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“THE LEGEND OF MARTY-MAR”

(AN EXCERPT FROM THE TELEVISION SERIES, SECOND & FOREST)

“The Legend of Marty-Mar” (an excerpt from television series, Second & Forest)
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HERMOSA BEACH

A TimBlackman Visual

Hermosa Beach (A TimBlackman Visual)
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“HOME”

A TimBlackman Visual

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All

Flats

All Rights Reserved, MMXX.

Detroit, MI

Chicken wings, Beer Battered Shrimp, a stiff drink and a healthy supply of cannabis, can all be seen in Detroit’s freshest cooking show, All Flats!

Hosted by Director/Screenwriter Anton Bassey and filmed by Timothy Blackman II, this series explores some of the region’s favorite meals, All Flats style. Featuring an ever-evolving soundtrack curated by Hip Hop Producer CrisFantom, All Flats will leave your mouth watering and your stomach rumbling.

All Flats Ep One
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All Flats EP 2
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All Flats Danksgiving Episode 3
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All Flats EP 4
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All Flats EP 5
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All Flats Episode 8
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All Flats: Ten Toes (Best Places to Eat in Los Angeles)
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All Flats EP 6
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ALL FLATS ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL
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All Flats: Ten Toes (Best Tacos in Long Beach)
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Play Video about All Flats: The Lost Episodes (2022)

Dacosta Ave Studios Presents, All Facts, a brand new educational miniseries that combines trivia, music, and a fresh dose of All Facts! 

All Facts is Directed by Anton Bassey with Cinematography and Music by Timothy Blackman II

All Facts Ep 1 [The Strait of Lake Erie]
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All Facts [EP 2] The 313 Area Code
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ABE MAYBE

EP: Abe Maybe and the improbable knot

Music by Abe Maybe 

Ian Gleespen: Lead Singer/Guitar 

Kristianna Bell: Singer 

Timothy Blackman II: Bass Guitar 

Rick Coughlin: Guitar 

Erich Friebel: Drummer/Perc

"Yellow Daises and Dusty Brains"

This is by far the most difficult and most rewarding visual project I have ever created. 

I first started producing this video back in 2017 however, I started writing and recording this song back with Abe Maybe in 2014. The last frame of animation was completed in August 2020, the year of the panasonic.

Frame by frame, Ian Gleespen (lead singer and guitarist of Abe Maybe) and I shot each photo to represent a single frame, then Ian would slightly alter the scene, then I would shoot again. With sheer determination, we finally completed the last frame of animation in August 2020, the year of the panasonic.

Abe Maybe

Video Direction & Production by: Timothy Blackman II & Ian Gleespen

With help by: William Gleespen, Phil Leslie, Erik Mitchell, & Lindsay Robillard

THE DAYNITES 

the daynites live at the blind pig

The Ypsilanti R&B-rock sextet of Kristianna Bell (vocals), Timothy Blackman II (bass), Shaun Maazza (guitar), Erich Friebel (drums, percussion) and Rick Coughlin (guitar) share reflective stories about love, growth, freedom and wisdom on their self-titled debut EP.

The Ypsi-Arbor music scene boasts one of the most tightly-knit groups of local bands throughout Michigan and The DayNites have become the spearhead of this class of bands, remaining a pacesetter for the booming local music scenes within the Detroit and the Ypsi-Arbor Region.

This self-titled EP features what we, the fans, have come to expect from their trademark vibe: that of deep-groove, simplistically stated, but absurdly talented songs. It was only a matter of time before the band released a top-tier project, reflecting the band’s immense talent. This EP is that project, five songs showcasing why The DayNites are one of Michigan’s premier talents.

-Antonio Cooper

GIVHAN

ALBUM:
GOOD JUJU

Music by Givhan (formerly known as Jaye Prime)

Givhan: Lead Singer

Adam DiPaolo: Guitar

Timothy Blackman II: Bass Guitar

Marcel (Ray): Keys

Eric Childress II: Drums/Perc.

Joshua Woods: Producer