vol. 268 / slowdowwwn

vol. 268 / Slowdowwwn


VOL. 268 / SLOWDOWWWN

This week's guest editor, Brandon Lewis brings over a decade of experience as a design leader who transforms digital complexity into elegant, scalable systems. At the intersection of brand identity, product function, and systems thinking, he guides cross-functional teams through the creative wilderness with strategic clarity and purpose. His portfolio spans diverse territories—from philanthropy and fintech regulation to wellness platforms and health tech innovation—where he builds design operations that not only drive business growth but deepen human connection. Whether working with startups, agencies, government initiatives, or global enterprises, Brandon unifies marketing, product, and brand under a vision rooted in equity and genuine care. Brandon is also preparing to launch Slowdowwwn Café, a soulful new space coming to the heart of Richmond—a coffee shop and café nestled within a vibrant community hub and social club.

Beyond his professional life, Brandon finds joy in exploring cities on foot or by bike, discovering hidden corners with good light, and believes we notice more magic when we slow down. Insatiably curious about the human experience as it surfaces in art, grief, creativity, and play, he's raising three wildly imaginative kids who remind him daily to pause, be present, stay soft, and laugh maniacally often – reinforcing his belief that to create is to be alive.

Take it away, Brandon ...

SwapMeetRVA


Shop vintage fashion, sneakers, candles, jewelry, home décor, and more at SwapMeetRVA—Richmond’s hub for Black and brown creatives, queer makers, and sustainable style. Set against the backdrop of Main Street Station, this community market celebrates slow fashion, self-expression, and the art of intention over trend.
 

Vitals:

SwapMeetRVA at Main Street Station / Saturday, May 18 / 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM / FREE /  Main Street Station, 1500 E Main Street

Poetry Open Mic Night @ KavaClub


Step up to the mic or just soak it all in—KavaClub’s Poetry Open Mic Night is an open invitation to share truth through words. Whether you're a seasoned poet or trying it for the first time, this is a space for vulnerability, creativity, and radical self-expression.

Vitals:

Poetry Open Mic Night @ KavaClub / Wednesday, May 15 / KavaClub, 1529 West Main Street

Park Chan-wook Screening @ Studio Two Three

Experience the haunting beauty and emotional depth of Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook at this special screening hosted by Studio Two Three. Known for works like Oldboy, his films explore grief, intimacy, and transformation with unmatched visual storytelling. Studio Two Three continues to champion inclusive, accessible art—and this is one more reason to show up.


Vitals:

Park Chan-wook Screening @ Studio Two Three / Monday, May 20 / 7:00 PM / FREE / Studio Two Three, 3300 W Clay Street

More From Brandon.

Slowdowwwn is in the making.

We're shaping it with care: a cozy café and book bar by day, a soulful lounge by night. A space that invites us to breathe, to be, and to belong. It’s designed for curiosity and connection. For gathering without performance. For joy, grief, and rest to sit side by side.

But this isn’t just our dream. It’s a collaborative pursuit to walk alongside others already doing the work of healing, hospitality, and justice in Richmond. We’re not here to reinvent the wheel. We’re here to contribute to the ecosystem with care and intention. We’re hosting a press release gathering on May 18th at Black Iris.

If you’re curious, come meet us. Ask questions. Share your vision. See how you might fit into this growing thing.

Give us a follow on Instagram and click to RSVP below.

CLICK TO RSVP