Today we’d like to introduce you to Shellie Schmals.
Shellie, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I always thought art had to have a traditional path, that it was a tangible skill which had a result. A painter, a singer, a photographer, sculpture, musician, actor, writer, designer … I wanted to be all of those at one point in time but never was fully successful at any of it.
What I excelled at was networking and planning, creating community and visions, pairing passions and philanthropy; it’s only been in the last few years that I embraced the notion that producing is my art. I find the thrill in connecting the dots and helping bring my talented friends together with common themes in creative ways.
Everything I do is backwards. I usually come up with an idea, and figure out how to make it happen. My training in improv with Bob Wood at Relapse Theatre helped with developing that sense of confidence. Professionally, I’ve been fortunate to have experiences that allowed me to build upon skills in events, marketing, fundraising, and leadership training which have laid the groundwork for my proficiency in these areas. Plus, I have an amazing group of friends who are always on my side cheerleading me on to the next project.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
Most recently, my burlesque troupe Roxie Roz has been my personal conduit to the Atlanta arts community. Roxie Roz Burlesque is a collective of dancers, performers, comedians, and artists who celebrate the art of the tease in both vintage and contemporary styles. Since 2o15, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with over 75 performers in stages all over the city, and partner with organizations like Atlanta Contemporary, Bullseye Rescue, Dad’s Garage and Interfaith Family/Atlanta. My Roxie Roz artistic team includes Royal Tee and Emily Rose; without their support, trust, and buy-in, I wouldn’t be able to launch my crazy ideas!
In many ways, 2015 was a big year for me. It was also when my dear friend and creative colleague James King began to circle around a movement we now call, Small Secret Things.
“Small Secret Things celebrates a special moment in time when an individual’s world identity intersects with their personal history to highlight a #SmallSecret emotion that typically remains hidden.”
We launched in May 2017 by mixing elements of visual and performance art with personal testimonials. Since then, James and I have worked with over 30 collaborators at 4 different shows, raising money for non-profit organizations like Tapestri and Crisis Line and Safe House of Georgia (CLASH). Both organizations are dedicated to keeping people safe from domestic violence and dangerous situations, and also provide services for recovery.
From my work as a producer, I hope people walk away feeling inspired, connected and a little more educated on a cause. Also … I want people to have fun. I like to have fun; you should be having fun too!
What responsibility, if any, do you think artists have to use their art to help alleviate problems faced by others? Has your art been affected by issues you’ve concerned about?
I think the role of the artist remains true to what creativity always should be – bringing a unique perspective and view into the world. The mediums change as time moves on and technology grows, but the need for an emotional outlet doesn’t change.
Chaos is surrounding us now; art keeps us grounded.
The timing of the #metoo movement and Small Secret Things was extremely relevant; when James and I first started our collaboration – there were whispers of injustice but no specific voice. Since the takedown of Weinstein, we’ve seen women start to crack through their fears and become more vulnerable to share their stories.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Follow me at …
Ig: @vonschmals
Fb: facebook.com/shellie.schmals
Twitter: @shellieschmals
Follow my work at …
See films >> www,ajff.org
Support women in entertainment >> www.wifta.org
Discover burlesque >> www.roxieroz.com
Share Small Secret Things >> www.facebook.com/SmallSecretThings/
Experience Pinup >> www.facebook.com/GeorgiaPinupPosse/
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.roxieroz.com
- Email: roxierozburlyq@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vonschmals/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shellie.schmals
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/shellieschmals
- Other: https://www.ajff.org
Image Credit:
Brooklyn Brat Images
Jennifer Rakestraw Photography
Ashley Eberlein
Charles Bailey
Danielle Boise
Shawn Doughtie
Leah Sitkoff
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
