Breaking Barriers: One Woman's Mission to Amplify Diverse Voices in Arts and Culture
Image credit: Cultured Focus
In an exclusive interview, the visionary business leader, Taylor Re Lynn shares insights into her recent collaboration with the Wonder Woman Initiative during Art Basel in Miami for the "Designed on Purpose: A Bespoke Art Basel Experience” December 7th 2024 event. Held at the luxurious Kimpton Angler’s South Beach Hotel, the program not only celebrated women's achievements but also showcased the power of diversity in arts and culture. Lynn's responses illuminate her dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering a more inclusive creative landscape.
Your journey from film to founding a cultural platform is fascinating. Can you take us through this transition, and how your experiences in Hollywood shaped your vision?
My work in film and the creation of a cultural platform have always been complementary endeavors, rather than a transition from one to the other. As an actress and producer, I've been deeply immersed in the film industry, which has provided me with unique insights into the power of storytelling and visual narratives. This experience naturally led to the inception of a broader cultural platform.
The film industry exposed me to the lack of diversity in storytelling and representation, both on-screen and behind the camera. Working on various productions, I observed a significant disparity between the rich tapestry of global narratives and what actually made it to the screen.
This realization inspired me to create Cultured Focus Magazine, an international platform designed to amplify diverse voices and cultures. The magazine serves as an extension of my work in film, allowing me to address the broader issue of cultural representation in media while continuing my film career.
By leveraging my background in film production and my understanding of the power of well-crafted narratives, I've been able to create a space where artists from all backgrounds can share their stories and perspectives. This platform complements my ongoing work in the film industry, creating a synergy between my roles as a filmmaker and a cultural advocate.
What inspired the collaboration with the Wonder Woman Initiative during Art Basel?
The collaboration between our magazine and the Wonder Woman Initiative (WWI) for the Art Basel event was a natural extension of our shared values. Both organizations are committed to empowering women and celebrating diversity in the arts. Art Basel provided the perfect backdrop for this collaboration, as it's a globally recognized platform for artistic expression. We saw an opportunity to leverage this event to showcase the incredible talents of women who are making significant contributions to their fields and communities. Launched in 2018 by Tayo Ishola, the WWI amplifies the voices of women, using fashion and the arts as vehicles to drive change.
Can you tell us about why Cultured Focus Magazine selected Tayo Ishola, Cristy Hayek, Diana Gilbert, and Stichiz as recipients for the 2024 awards and what made them stand out?
The selection of Tayo Ishola, Cristy Hayek, Diana Gilbert, and Stichiz for the 2024 Cultured Focus Awards was based on their outstanding contributions to their respective fields. Tayo Ishola received the Fashion Business Excellence Award for her innovative approach to fashion entrepreneurship. Cristy Hayek was honored with the Excellence in the Arts Award for her impactful artistic creations. Diana V. Gilbert's philanthropic efforts earned her the Leadership and Philanthropy Award, while Stichiz's influential work in music and media garnered her the Cultural Impact Award.
Each of these women exemplifies the spirit of innovation, leadership, and community impact that Cultured Focus Magazine celebrates.
Image: Cultured Focus Magazine Awards 2024/Designed on Purpose (Left to right): Taylor Re Lynn with Tayo Ishola, Christy Hayek, Stichiz, and Diana V. Gilbert
In what ways do you believe events like this contribute to advancing women's voices in the arts and culture sectors?
Events like "Designed on Purpose" play a crucial role in advancing women's voices in arts and culture. They provide a platform for recognition, networking, and inspiration. By showcasing successful women across various fields, we are collectively not only celebrating their achievements but also creating role models for the next generation. These events foster connections and collaborations that can lead to new opportunities and projects, ultimately strengthening the presence of women in these sectors.
As the founder of Cultured Focus Magazine, how do you see your platform evolving to further support diverse voices in the industry?
As Cultured Focus Magazine continues to grow, I envision expanding our reach to even more diverse communities and art forms. We're exploring partnerships with emerging artists and cultural institutions globally to bring fresh perspectives to our audience. Additionally, we're looking into developing mentorship programs and workshops to support up-and-coming creatives from underrepresented backgrounds. Our goal is to become not just a platform for diverse voices, but also a catalyst for change within the industry.
Image credit: Cultured Focus
Looking ahead, what maybe some goals for future collaborations between Cultured Focus Magazine and initiatives like the Wonder Woman Initiative or institutions?
Looking ahead, we aim to forge partnerships with cultural institutions and initiatives that align with our mission of promoting diversity and inclusion. Additionally, we're considering launching a grant program to support projects that push the boundaries of artistic expression and cultural understanding. Our ultimate goal is to create a global network of creatives and institutions committed to fostering a more inclusive and diverse arts landscape.
Taylor Re Lynn's vision for Cultured Focus Magazine extends far beyond traditional publishing. Through strategic collaborations, innovative events, and a commitment to amplifying diverse voices, Lynn is reshaping the cultural landscape. As Cultured Focus Magazine continues to evolve, it stands poised to make an even greater impact on the arts and culture sectors, championing inclusivity and celebrating the rich tapestry of global creativity.
Follow Taylor Re Lynn on Instagram and online via https://www.taylorrelynn.com/.
Photography by: Courtesy of Cultured Focus
