"We exist to promote and encourage diversity in the arts as it applies to reversing societal stigmas and combating media biases of the full-figured artist.... Talent, beauty and influence should not be limited to size ..." |
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About the ThYck Troupe™
Founder, Tressa Thomas, transitioned the ThYck Troupe from a "modeling interest club" into a 501(c)3 organization, where plus size women could not only pursue modeling careers, but partake in expanded training and development courses, health & wellness workshops, confidence-building seminars and even have their talents showcased for the general public in a variety of venues across the country.
Initially, there was a Meetup Group formed to find like-minded plus size models that wanted to make their own modeling opportunities in the City of Chicago and the surrounding areas.
From there, the “ThYck Troupe” was pitched to members that wanted to branch out and form a “modeling troupe”. A Model Call was held in April of 2010, resulting in 14 models being recruited for the very first “ThYck Troupe of Chicago” modeling troupe.
From a social perspective, it was recognized that many plus size individuals were feeling a deficit in their abilities to confidently share their artistic talents with the public, due to fears of rejection, lack of proper training and a lack of experience.
Our performance art, whether live concerts, stage plays, spoken word sessions, fashion exhibitions or documentary filmmaking - are designed to educate the public on the endless possibilities of art, by showcasing an under-represented and often criticized “plus-size” demographic.
We encourage the cultivation of an expanded arts community for plus size artists by providing access to a variety of lectures, workshops, mentorships, industry showcases, body image seminars and discussion forums. These tools assist members in perfecting their individual crafts, draw aspiring artists from surrounding communities together, promote collaborations with like-minded organizations, and encourage healthier living.
Through this organization, multiple artistic showcases occur each year, with all communities invited to partake in the festivities for the public good. We have no age limit, and are both ethnically & socioeconomically diverse.
Internal Programs
ThYck ED.™ Educational Outreach Program (Apprenticeship) ASPIRING ARTISTS gain experience, increase discipline and expand their industry knowledge. |
ThYck TV™
Self-produced, LIFESTYLE SHOW for the full-figured of Chicago. Training ground for aspiring segment producers and on-air talent. (www.thyck.tv) ** Made possible by a Community Grant from the IBM Corporation (August 2012) |
ThYck Troupe of Chicago™
Performing Arts Company Professionally trained artists DEVELOP, PRODUCE & PERFORM stage/theatre revues and multimedia content. |
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ThYck and Fit!™Dedicated HEALTH & WELLNESS division, providing community exercise initiatives & activities, wellness workshops, health screenings/clinics, body image seminars, and anti-obesity campaigns for children.
COMING SOON. ** Made possible by a Community Grant from Today's Chicago Woman "30for30" campaign (November 2012) |
