Carlos Maldonado of Wirelos brought us From China With the Universe, a fantastic exhibition we covered last month for artist Brian Reed. Carlos now collaborates with the incredible Cannon Hersey, a photographer, writer and producer of large-scale cultural efforts in non-traditional spaces in New York City, Sao Paulo and Johannesburg.

Together they are committed to connecting art, economy and the public in unique and unexpected ways, bringing business development, event creation and populace marketing experience to the process. For over ten years, both Maldonado and Cannon have worked across non-profit, private sector and communications to explore the meaning of culture and commerce in the modern global world.

As an Artist, Cannon has exhibited at numerous institutions and galleries including Lincoln Center, NYU, Vassar College, MoCADA, Earth Pledge Foundation, the Johannesburg Art Foundation and the Sao Paulo Bienale and is collected by major collectors around the world. He has been written about and written for many publications including Trace Magazine, Chronogram, Arts Link, Vogue RG, Bomb, O Estado de Sao Paulo, The Daily News,  and Time Out. Cannon Hersey conceived and founded CrossPathCulture (CPC) in 1999, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting global community building through the arts. As the executive director of CPC, he organized and produced more than 50 exhibitions, festivals and educational programs in conjunction with other non-profit organizations, including the Museum of Modern Art and PS1.

Together they are working on several projects, but we are excited to announce their cultural exchange involving China and Brazil, both countries rich in contemporary art and cultural influence. Their other " top secret" project will use art as a resource and tool  to benefit the environment.

Carlos what are you greatest inspirations or influences?

• My grandmother's, my parents, Khalil Gibran, Miguel Ruiz, Jacque Fresco, Mother Theresa of Calcutta

• Our Planet, Music, Art, Love

• Pele, Barishnikov, Frances Ann Cannon, Bernard Chappard, Mario Testino

Favorite websites, blogs, publications?

National Geographic, Ninunina.com, Barcode, Ted Talk's

Carlos what are some of your favorite spots in Shanghai?

Xintiandi, but love views and so to the Shangrila's Hotel or the Jim Mao tower to enjoy Puxi's view and the Huanqpu River.

and in Brazil?

This is a tough question. Jardim Botanico, a walk to see the most sexy bodies on Ipanema, Leblon an of course Copacabana. Late night dinner at Pizerria Guanabara (the best )this is were we finish our nights and spark the morning!

Anything else dear Carlitos?

My mission is to be the best I can be and fortunately it helps when I surround myself with people who help me achieve that. There is nothing I love more in a person than an open and honest heart regardless of status or background. I am lucky I can do do good and do exactly what I love and am passionate about.

Carlos with friends at From China With the Universe Launch