One of the good things 2020 brought was the opportunity to get acquainted with the dynamic Black and Latinx duo behind Providence’s Public Shop and Gallery. While COVID tried to toss a monkey wrench into their plans, Public has proved time and again that don’t one wrench stop no show. It took a minute to get this interview on the books and I’m thrilled to drop just one day before the opening of HOME, a pop-up and art show running from March 5 - 28.

Film: Kodak Portra 800 + Ilford HP5 Plus // Camera: Mamiya RB67

1. DOPE VITALS

Cas: I am Cas Inez, born and raised in Providence, RI. I am a mother, educator, and creative.

Spocka: My name is Spocka Summa. I am Nigerian but was born and raised in Providence, RI. I am an MC, curator, partner to Cas.

2. DOPEST THING DONE

Cas: I hate to brag, but giving birth was pretty dope. It still blows my mind almost three years later! I also hiked up a volcano and saw lava. I never thought that would happen!

Spocka: Teaching our daughter has been dope, to see her grow and change daily. I also lived in Japan for almost one year. 

3. DOPEST THING TO DO

Cas: I want to make visual albums and write books. It's on my list and will come up in the years to come, but I'm setting intentions now.

Spocka: I would like to leave behind a legacy for my future grandkids to inherit and learn from.

4. A DOPE FACT ABOUT CAS + SPOCKA

Cas: Some early career choices I had included auto mechanic, barber, and music producer. And I'm still going to learn how to do all of those things simply because I enjoy learning.

Spocka: I enjoy good customer service. My favorite show is the original Twilight Zone with Rod Sterling. 

5. A DOPE LIFE THAT INSPIRES CAS + SPOCKA

Cas: Dave Chappelle. He does what the fuck he wants, plus he's funny and smart. Mothers everywhere too—all of em.

Spocka: I look up to my brothers and my father. These are some tough guys that have been through a lot and are still pushing through and accomplishing great things. Made their own rules and were open to taking a risk to provide for the family.  

6. WHERE FOLKS CAN FIND CAS + SPOCKA BEING DOPE

Cas: @cas_inez and @publicnotprivate 

Spocka: @ispocka , www.SpockaSumma.com

CAS + SPOCKA’S KEYS TO LIVING A DOPE LIFE AND DOING DOPE THINGS

Cas: When you wake up each day, do something for yourself first - before getting ready for work, before walking the dog, or feeding someone else. Make a cup of tea or meditate for 5 minutes - but set your mood before someone else sets it for you.

Spocka: Manifest your thoughts into reality.  Don't get lost inside the system and all the noise in the world. It is easy to lose yourself, but always take time to evaluate yourself and make the necessary adjustments along the way.