First Noble Studios

11/12/2024

THIS WEEK ONLY: het Cultuurfonds will double ALL donations on our crowdfunding on Voordekunst between now and Sunday 15 December! 🔥
For example, if you donate 50 euros, the Cultuurfonds will add an extra 50 euros.
So your donation is worth double this week 🤑

If you want to double your impact with your donation, now is your chance!

➡ https://www.voordekunst.nl/projecten/18077-rise-of-the-mafu-the-graphic-novel

06/12/2024

SPECIAL EDITION ALERT: HIS STORY OF THE WORLD
We’re launching the special edition hardcover of HIS STORY OF THE WORLD: The First Creator. Exclusively available at the event, this edition features extra stories, in-depth content, and a fully immersive dive into the universe and mythology.

HIS STORY OF THE WORLD, is the result of inspiring insights drawn from not one, but many lives. It explores how the African Diaspora reconnects with their long-lost roots, weaving a powerful narrative of identity and belonging.

Are you also excited to get your hands on this collector’s item? Come to the special program this weekend! During the weekend the author Gerald Vreden will also be present to answer your burning questions about the book and the new edition!

Find tickets to the event here: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639
This weekend is going to be extraordinary! See you there!

06/12/2024

Introducing the BSAM Netherlands Team!

This Sunday we will celebrate the launch of the first European chapter of the Black Speculative Arts Movement (BSAM), right here in the Netherlands!

BSAM is a global network of creatives, thinkers, and innovators that celebrates Afrofuturism, Astro-Blackness, Afro-Surrealism, and other intersections of African diasporic worldviews with technology, art, and speculative design. With its roots in New York in 2015, this movement has now expanded to Europe to advance Afrofuturistic art and heritage in new directions.
Read more about BSAM worldwide via: http://www.bsam-art.com
A special thank you also goes out to BSAM Brasil

The BSAM Netherlands team is an extraordinary group of visionaries:
🔮 Gerald Vreden
🔮 Steven Vreden
⁠🔮 Leroy Soesman
🔮 Sander van Beusekom from BLEND Creative Imaging
⁠🔮 Phillip Ekwaro-Osire from People of Earth
⁠🔮 Ptah & Auset Ankh Re
⁠🔮 Luw Art Tara
⁠🔮 Reyhan Emelina a.k.a. Renychiki
🔮 Neteru Collective
⁠🔮 Sawitri Haarnack a.k.a. Sawi3
🔮 Isabel Berenos
🔮 Lucid Belle
🔮 Haydiên Nedd
🔮 Kitchell Samuel a.k.a. Melanin Shango Kris
🔮 Grace Stelk
🔮 Iwan Esajas a.k.a. Maddy Madpac
🔮 Cissy Joan
🔮 Bruce Niyonkuru a.k.a. Canda from Milele Museum
🔮 ⁠Melissa Kurkut from Milele Museum
⁠🔮 Sigmar Vriesde a.k.a. Monsigneur L'Afrique
🔮 Achi Chioma

Many of them already have their works on display right now in the exhibition!
Make sure to follow the team and stay connected as they reimagine the past, shape the present, and inspire futures through art, design, and innovation.

🎫 Join us this weekend during the Shared History of the World special program at the OBA in Amsterdam as we celebrate this launch: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639

06/12/2024

On December 8th, we’re honored to open the day with a powerful spoken word performance by Carla Kabamba, a multi-talented artist, political scientist, and Amsterdam city council member.

Known for her powerful voice and deep passion for social issues, Carla will connect the past and present with future insights in a unique and inspiring way. Her performance will be a call to reflect, connect, and envision a world reimagined through culture and creativity.

🎟️ Get your tickets via: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639

05/12/2024

Elevate your senses with the mesmerizing live performance by Zaika Do Santos (Brasil) during the two day program on December 7th & 8th!

During these days, we’re all about bringing to life the worlds of Afrofuturism. Adding to the immersive experience, Zaika (member of BSAM Brasil) will channel the themes of the HIS STORY OF THE WORLD universe, bringing its creative essence to life in a performance that blends artistry, storytelling, and raw emotion.

Join us for this unforgettable journey where movement and meaning collide, brought to you by First Nobles and BSAM. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a living work of art.

Check the full program and tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639

05/12/2024

Another special guest who will be joining one of the panels is Dr. Philip Butler, a leading scholar at the intersection of neuroscience, AI, spirituality, and Blackness. As the founder of the Seekr Project, an innovative AI addressing mental health from a distinctly Black perspective, and a director at Iliff’s AI Institute, Philip is shaping the future of ethical and inclusive technology. We look forward to hearing Philip’s perspective.

On December 8th, Philip will join the Lightning Talk to tell us about AI and Black language models.

🎟️ Get your tickets to the event(s) via: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639

05/12/2024

We have an extra guest who will be speaking during the panel on Sunday!
Lucid Belle , a Cameroonian-Dutch artist and cosplayer whose exceptional craftsmanship has earned her international acclaim. Drawing from her love of fantasy, video games, and anime.

On December 8th, LUCID will bring her expertise to the stage as part of the panel on Gaming Culture and Afrofuturism.

🎟️ You can still get tickets on Eventbrite via: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639

04/12/2024

Dive into the magic of storytelling with N’golo & Underneath: Children of the Sun!
Join us for an unforgettable screening experience this December 7th and 8th!

On the 21st of December we already shared information about N’golo! So go check it out.

🎥Today we zoom in on: 'Underneath: Children of the Sun'!
Be part of history!
The screening of Underneath: Children of the Sun during our event marks their European Premiere this December 7th and 8th! Join us for a moving exploration of resilience, heritage, and identity. This thought-provoking film will take you on a journey beneath the surface, uncovering the stories of those who live in the light of their ancestors.

Q&A: DAVID KIRKMAN (DIRECTOR) and JASON WILSON (PRODUCER)
Join us on December 7th and 8th for this special program hosted by First Nobles and BSAM.
Be part of a celebration that bridges past, present, and future through the lens of cultural legacy of Afrofuturism. During these two days, we will also have the director David Kirkman and producer Jason Wilson of 'Underneath: Children of the Sun'.

Explore the full program and grab your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639

Mark your calendars and don’t miss this unforgettable screening!

Join Europe’s largest Afrofuturism event Dec 7-8 at OBA Oosterdok! Film premiere, VR, talks, and exhibits. Limited seats—reserve now!

03/12/2024

SANKOFA VR = SOLD OUT!

For the lucky ones who have managed to secure a ticket in time, you can expect to step into the world of "SANKOFA", an immersive virtual reality theater experience. Travel through time and space together with the Vreden siblings Wanda, Gerald and Steven and confront ancestral history. This interactive experience challenges you to work together to unravel ancient mysteries in the African civilization of Bagadune.

For the rest of us, we can still enjoy it as a spectator, but keep in mind that you can only experience this at our special program on December 7th!

03/12/2024

Exciting News! Adeche Atelier on the Mainstage

We’re excited to announce that Adeche Atelier (UK) will be featured at the Shared History of the World Exhibition in by Don’t miss their inspiring talk on the importance of Afro-Caribbean mythology in media and art. They’ll dive into the narrative of Rise of the Mafu, exploring how it reconnects us with our roots and inspires fresh creative expressions.

🗓 When: 7th of December
📍 Where: OBA Oosterdok, Amsterdam, Netherlands

But wait, there’s more! Adeche Atelier is live painting a one-of-a-kind masterpiece inspired by ‘Rise of the Mafu’ available exclusively during our Kickstarter campaign. This is your chance to own a stunning piece of history!

Link in bio for tickets and updates about their festival presence and how you can support the highly anticipated Rise of the Mafu graphic novel Kickstarter campaign.

29/11/2024

8th December Program Highlights at OBA Amsterdam

On this day we will dive deeper into the magic of Afrofuturism and cultural storytelling. With even more thought-provoking panels and captivating short films, but this day we will focus on connection (networking) with the goal of inspiring each other.

WHAT TO EXPECT
- Start the day with a networking breakfast with creatives and thinkers.
- Panels Talks: Discussions on feminism, gaming, and Afrofuturism.
- Film Showcase: “The Glow of N’golo” honoring African heritage through art and combat.
- Lightning talks: Fresh insights on reclaiming and revitalizing culture.
- BSAM Europe Launch: Witness history as we celebrate the future of Afrofuturistic art in Europe.

🕙 Breakfast starts at 10:00 | OBA Forum

Don’t miss the Shared Histories of the World exhibition, open all day!
Explore the full program and secure your spot via: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072983154499

29/11/2024

7th December Special Program Highlights at OBA Amsterdam

This will be a day filled with storytelling, performances, and transformative conversations! This special program brings together global voices and creatives to explore the richness of Afro-Caribbean heritage and the power of innovative art forms.

WHAT TO EXPECT
- Panel talks on the future of society, Afrofuturism, and Black culture.
- Performances, lightning talks, and a unique Sankofa VR showcase.
- European film premiere of "Underneath: Children of the Sun" with an exclusive Q&A.
- Launch of the awaited graphic novel "Rise of the Mafu"

🕐 Doors Open at 13:15 | OBA Theater

Check out the full schedule and secure your spot now via: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072983154499

29/11/2024

And finally there’s no other speakers left to introduce for the special program but the Vreden brothers themselves:
- Steven Vreden (Netherlands) – Creative producer, psychologist, and co-founder of First Noble Institute
- Gerald Vreden (Netherlands) – Writer, producer, director, co-founder of First Noble Institute

As these special events are in part also to celebrate the 5-year anniversary of First Noble, consider this a personal invitation to a weekend of connection, culture, and creativity, celebrating stories that unite us across continents. Everyone is welcome!

In addition to the thought-provoking panels, there will also be captivating performances, film premiers and showcases, and a unique VR experience

28/11/2024

At First Noble, our mission is to bring untold Afro-Caribbean legends and myths to life through storytelling in books, graphic novels, VR experiences, music, and art exhibitions, in collaboration with incredible artists.

OUR FIRST NOVEL: HIS STORY OF THE WORLD | SPECIAL EDITION LAUNCH
Travel back 700,000 years with HIS STORY OF THE WORLD series, as protagonist Gerald embarks on a journey to complete a long-delayed rite of passage to save his family. Along the way, he uncovers the ancient origins of humanity by encountering the cosmic Mafu beings, whose history challenges the boundaries of time and human destiny.

➡️During the program next week we will be launching a SPECIAL EDITION version!
That means that you can get the book in HARDCOVER, you will be able to enjoy the story with extra WORLD BUILDING and there will be EXTRA STORIES! More of what you already love!

CROWDFUNDING: RISE OF THE MAFU
Expanding the universe of HIS STORY OF THE WORLD, Rise of the Mafu #1 is a stand-alone graphic novel rooted in the mythology of this universe. This visually stunning story kicks off a trilogy where history and destiny collide in an epic battle for survival.
nd destiny are locked in a powerful struggle for survival.

DISCUSSING THE IMPACT OF THE NOVELS DURING OUR SPECIAL PROGRAM
During our special program on the 7th and 8th of December we will feature discussions with internationally award-winning writers and acclaimed Dutch authors, who will explore the cultural significance and impact of these novels as the Netherlands’ first Afrofuturistic novel series.
Adding to the experience, Zaika dos Santos (Brasil) will present a live performance inspired by the themes of the HIS STORY OF THE WORLD universe, bringing its creative essence to life.

Grab your tickets now: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072983395219

28/11/2024

📆 SPECIAL PROGRAM: 7th & 8th of December
We’re almost there!

Today we’re introducing two guests:
- Quentin VerCetty (Canada) – Multidisciplinary artist & pioneer of Afrofuturism in Canada
- Theo Paaijmans (Netherlands) – Journalist and Afrofuturism pioneer

You can see the whole program for the day here: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639
More information is also available on our website firstnoble.org

27/11/2024

You've probably heard about Sheree Renée Thomas being part of our special programme on the 7th and 8th of December!

We are very excited to have a Pioneer, a Legend, a Trailblazer such as Sheree Renée Thomas join Us in Amsterdam for the Launch of HIS STORY OF THE WORLD at the Shared History of the World Exhibition.

Thank you, Sheree Renée Thomas for giving us the stories we didn’t know we needed and for inspiring generations.

ABOUT SHEREE RENÉE THOMAS:
This groundbreaking author worked alongside the legendary Afrofuturist Octavia Butler, and whose contributions have elevated African mythology and Afrofuturistic literature to global prominence.
📚 About Sheree Renée Thomas:
- 🏆 Multi-award-winning author (World Fantasy, LOCUS, and Hugo Awards)
- 🌍 Editor-in-Chief of Obsidian: Literature & Arts in the African Diaspora and curator of acclaimed anthologies like Africa Risen and Trouble the Waters
- ✨ A driving force behind the global Black Speculative Arts movement

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
🦸🏽‍♀️ *Marvel Voices: Legends #1* (2024)
🏆 2023 Octavia E. Butler Award Winner
🏆 2023 World Fantasy Award Winner (*Africa Risen*)
🏆 2023 LOCUS Award Winner (*Africa Risen*)
🏆 2023 Caine Prize Winners (*Africa Risen*)
✨ 2023 Hugo Award Finalist (Best Editor - Short Form)
🏅 2023 British Fantasy Award Shortlist (*Africa Risen*)
🌊 2023 World Fantasy Award Finalist (*Trouble the Waters* & *Africa Risen*)
🎻 2022 Darrell Award Winner (*Nine Bar Blues*)
📖 54th NAACP Image Award Nominee
🔥 *New York Times* Bestseller

Festival Highlights
Sheree will be part of our Lightningtalks and All- Female Power Panel, alongside other amazing guests on these two days like Vamba Sherif, David Kirkman, Yvonne Apiyo Brändle-Amolo and Reynaldo Anderson.
But that’s not all. We have a whole list of amazing visionary artists, scholars, and creators from 9 countries in our program.

📅 Don’t miss this!
Read more about the program & grab your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639

27/11/2024

📆 SPECIAL PROGRAM: 7th & 8th of December
The special events are jam-packed with guest speakers, which is how we can still be introducing more guests!
Make sure to swipe -> to see them all

The guests we’re introducing today are:
- David Kirkman (USA) – Creator and Director of the film ‘Underneath: The Children of the Sun’
- Imanuelle Grives (Netherlands) – Actress, filmmaker and writer
- Dr. LaWana Richmond (USA) – Executive Director and educator

You can see the whole program for the day here: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639
More information is also available on our website firstnoble.org

25/11/2024

📆SPECIAL PROGRAM: 7th & 8th of December
Another day, another line-up! Are you as excited as we are?

Today we're introducing:
Haydiên Nedd (Netherlands): STREAMER AND COSPLAY ARTIST, ICT SPECIALIST
Jason Wilson (USA): PRODUCER OF UNDERNEATH: THE CHILDREN OF THE SUN
Juice Aleem (UK): HIP-HOP ARTIST, EVENT ORGANIZER, AND WRITER

Swipe left to see our special guests!

Check the whole program on www.firstnoble.org or go directly to Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/shared-history-of-the-world-exhibition-public-program-tickets-1072980526639