Looking to let your hair down, ditch the push-up bra, and experience "a life-inspiring, soul-moving, belly-laughing, and rhythmically-healing artistic weekend!" That's what you'll get at SWAN (Support Women Artists Now) Day this Saturday at The Stage, according to local founder Deborah Magdalena. The movement behind the event was created by Martha Richards with the ultimate goal of inspiring a national holiday celebrating female artists. Of course, we live in a country where voters will overlook someone's race before they overlook their gender (see Amendments 15 and 19, and 2008 Democratic Primaries), so don't hold your breath.

In the meantime, relish the fact that we can wear pants, vote, divorce, serve in our Armed Forces, and create amazing works of art (see Nan Goldin, Mary Cassatt, and Lady Gaga) by attending the showcase. We doubt you'll see any meat couture, but you will be exposed to female artists of all types, including spoken word artists, musicians, writers, and painters.

Magdalena most appreciates that the event is, "making it possible for

every artist to sell (and) make money with their God given talent. Many

have sold their first pieces ever in SSF. That makes this festival a

success -these women now have the tools to promote their work, sell, and

succeed." So, support your inner Melusine and fork over some money for

their work.

If you're interested in showcasing your own work, it's too late this

year, but take heed, "We have a submission process that starts in

December the year before. Specifically, because we want the featured

artists to get at least two to three months of grassroots promotions.

But we welcome artists to please submit at any time. There has been many

times when one year one artist applies late or isn't selected and the

next year they are."

The road to equality begins at The Stage (170 NE 38 St., Miami) at 6

Call 786-975-9596 or visit spokensoulfestival.com.

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