The Art of Fashion

“In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”
- coco chanel

Indie- Fever



A few postings ago I proclaimed, “Boutique is Back” – noting the increase in small businesses blooming on Weddington Street here in NoHo. These include a designer, hair salon/gallery, art gallery/event space, dance studio, martial arts and a spa – all small independents.

This past spring I attended Entrepreneur magazine’s annual Growth conference in which magazine editor-in-chief Amy Cosper re-enforced that now is a prime time for small business to start and prosper. Citing many successful companies who started during economic downturns, including UPS and Playboy. Differentiation, timing and market need.

According to Andrew Nachison, CEO of the media think tank iFOCOS, “ Small businesses are definitely going through a time of “high popularity”. It is part of a larger fundamental shift and dissatisfaction with government, big business and the media. My belief is that consumers, with much less disposable income and credit, are giving very careful consideration to where they do spend and will want to patronize the indies’ vs. conglomerates.

Indie-Style:

NoHo-based designer and style maven Harold Fedison has been interested in fashion for as long as he can remember. As a youth he became a formal student of design then fell into retail when he hit the ‘real-world’, managing a number of large national big box retail stores.

Years later he was catapulted into following his passion for design and starting his own business after experiencing the successive loss of some very close friends.
Which had him re-evaluating what was really important in his own life.

Today, I speak with Mr. Fedison while sitting in his design studio on Weddington St. where he creates, produces and sells his garments all under one roof. Sewing machines of all varieties and functions fill the back room of the studio, which overflows with bolts of beautiful fabrics, trims and embellishments. The aesthetic of the boutique is very tasteful and ingeniously neat.




Looks inside Fedison’s storefront boutique














The Art Behind The Style –

Each one of Harold Fedison Designs begin with many sketches, some in pencil, pen, combined with acrylic paint pens. The sketches themselves are pieces of art and show the thought process behind the design of a line.

We discuss how fashion has notoriously been a pretentious field and how the craft of design has largely been lost. His look is one of timeless elegance. Not frivolous skimpy fashion garments but real style additions to a wardrobe that leave much to the imagination. Some of his styles even venture off into a bit of what I call ‘boho-chic’- the perfect attire for the creative woman - a bit of NoHo’s eclectic soul.

As a style designer, Fedison feels his clients want to wear something that reflects their individuality. Emphasizing that authenticity opposed to attitude rules the matter of the day. While the fabrics and styles exude taste and class - the designs are very approachable- practical and affordable.


Upcoming Fashion Show:
Harold Fedison will present a number of ‘looks’ from his resort-collection 2010 on Sept 12th in NoHo. You may end inquiries to: haroldfedison@aol.com



Storefront of Harold Fedison’s Boutique

Our New Space in NoHo

You may now find us in our gallery and event space right on Weddington Street off Lankershim in NoHo Arts District. Parking O Plenty and for all of those savvy urban travelers we know and love, at the last Metro stop on the Red Line. Come visit us, we are open by appt or for events.

Visit our Website www.inkit.com


When we create or appreciate art, we set free the spirit trapped within. That is why art arouses such joy. Art - whether skillfully executed or not - is the emotion, the pleasure of expressing life as it is. Those who see art are moved by its passion and strength, its intensity and beauty. That is why it is impossible to separate life from art. Political and economic developments may seem to dominate the news, but culture and education are the forces that actually shape an age, since they transform the human heart. -Wisdom for Modern Life - Daisaku Ikeda

One Last Gate to Pay

(posted for Thombstone/Stone Bone)

Hey lady Ink-

I will pass on to you a eulogy/poem that I wrote and was published in the De Soto Gab(cab newspaper) and on the editorial page, of The SF Examiner. A buddy of mine, went down to Mexico to die. He was an old cab driver, I used to give his daughter rides and wanted to convey to her my feeling's, with something other than a drug store card.
I framed the following words under glass and left it on her door step.

---------One Last Gate To Pay--------

The world has long forgotten his many acts of kindness, as he moved along the public way......

He was the gray-haired ancient coachman whose life was measured out by the countless metered
rides in the myriad streets beyond his home........

I likened his role to the gears of a clock like world, to which he provided movement........

To him the great affair was to move his passengers from points of pick up to destinations, while
giving them friendly counsel along the way..........

Drifting off and half asleep one night.........to my ear from far away.....I saw him smile and heard
him say....."just one last gate to pay".........

South of the border a wave crashed ashore and returned to a silent sea............

By Tombstone Johnstone
For Pierre Spencer

Artist Reception: Sunday May 3rd, 6-9pm

Please join us for an artist reception Sunday May 3rd, 6-9pm
This is the final open studio date for our current art exhibition.

Featuring artistic works from:
Bren Bataclan- Boston
Lynn Bridget- Los Angeles
Sofia Harrison- Napa Valley
Robyn Holmes- Los Angeles
Scott Kildall- San Francisco
Tim Weldon - NY/SF

Ink Studios
NoHo Arts District
11135 Weddington (@Lankershim)
#220
North Hollywood, CA 91601
(Directions)

Below is a video clip featuring a sculpture installation in the show by artist Sofia Harrison

Fresh Cuts

Was getting to wondering about a few musicians that we haven't heard from in quite a while and found that the subjects of my music musings are indeed releasing new works.

Van Hunt:
One of my personal favs. On May 8th VH will be releasing: Use In Case of Emergency - a few rare items from the vault ' a salve for these desperate times.' .only on www.vanhunt.com.

RiceBoySleeps:
By Sigur Ros frontman, Jon Birgisson along with collaboration partner Alex Somers. Due out July 20th.

Pete Yorn:
Fellow Jersey native and a most gifted singer/songwriter Yorn is at long last releasing a new record (June 23rd) entitled "Back and Forth"- first single "Don't Wanna Cry" - we still haven't gotten over Strange Condition. You can also catch Yorn performing on the Coldplay tour.

The MAGNIFICENT, Leonard Cohen, has released a live record "Live in London" from his current tour. Reaching its completion now- was amazing live performance, if you caught it. Genius. The record can give you comfort after you come down ........ we just love this man.

If It Be Your Will
(Leonard Cohen, Nokia Center, LA)

Destiny and Timing

Timing and destiny are inevitably entwined and we must learn trust the Universe.

In the book EAT, PRAY, LOVE by Elizabeth Gilbert there is a section on destiny:

Destiny is a play between divine grace and willful self effort. Half of it you have no control over, half of it is absolutely in your hands and your actions will show measurable consequence. Man is neither entirely a puppet of the Gods nor is he entirely the captain of his own destiny. He is a little of both. We gallop through our lives like circus performers balancing on two speeding side-by-side horses. One foot is on the horse called "Faith", the other on the horse called 'Free Will' and the question you have to ask everyday is which horse is which, which horse do I need to stop worrying about because it's not under my control and which do I need to steer with concentrated effort.

Yet Another Sobering Reality of Life

Your the last person that I wanted to send this message to and I know how disappointed you will be. I argued with myself over and over again about telling you this. I finally had to face reality and I realize that there is no way around it. Some things in life you just have to face up to, no matter how
hard it is. If there was any way around it, I would take that course of action rather than hurt someone
who I care about, but there is not and I must say what I must. It was so painful for me to face up to this that I really considered going through a second party, but I thought what good would that do, in the end I would have to tell you anyway. Sometimes in life we have to sort of "man up" to reality, regardless of the consequences. I know that you know me well enough to understand that I would not hurt you intentionally and if their was any way around this, I would do it. You really should find a place to sit down and let this sink in and please don't email me and ask why or am I sure about this, but there is no such thing as an easter bunny.
There I've said it.

Sincerely, JJJ

Face The Music (And Dance)

Well, this is probably another one of those shows not to miss, I mean - Herb Alpert is quite the musical pioneer and legendary trumpeter.His wife, Lani Hall, is one of the most wonderful and talented vocalists .

The pair perform together at various venues, material from their new record.
Herb Alpert and Lani Hall Live "Anything Goes"
They performed two sold out shows last week at Vibrato, Albert's Jazz venue in Bel Air.
You can catch a show at Yoshi's in SF in June.

Winter always turns to Spring

If you are doing any Spring Cleaning and you are in the Los Angeles area please consider helping a young foster girl feel like a Princess for her Prom by donating dressy items you no longer wear to
Dressy Drive: Items Needed include
-Women evening wear – gowns, dresses, etc
- Accessories – shoes, purses, jewelry, slips, wraps
(All sizes needed. Please make sure dresses are clean and on hangers)

Donations will be distributed April 19th at PROM PREP 101, which is
hosted by North Hollywood Department of Children and Family
Services.
Tax deductible donated items may be dropped off at either location below:

Lovette Panthier, SCSW
Resource Coordinator
panthl-at- dcfs.lacounty.gov
(818) 717-4686
(213) 471-6298- cell
20151 Nordhoff St., Chatsworth, CA 91311

Ink Studios
11135 Weddington Street (@ Lankershim)
Loft #220
North Hollywood, CA 91601
415 425 5683- c
info-at-inkit.com
*please specify if you would like Ink Studios to collect you receipt
for your tax deductible donation(s).

_____________________________________________________________

While rummaging about I happen to come across a birthday card from my dear flatmate Rod (bkr) - given to me some years ago at probably on of the most amazing birthday parties had (hosted at the home of Marc Canter on Potrero Hill).

As inspiring today as it was when Whitman wrote it:

(I discovered that you can buy these cards on amazon)

Hail to the Musicians

We have just learned that SF School District has initiated a program for teachers which provides an educational guide book with Jimi Hendrix gracing the cover with the following musings "Remember the first time you heard Jimi Hendrix?" "Our plan is as transformational now as his music was then!" We don't have a copy but sounds good.
For more gory details on the state of affairs in arts education.....visit our blog




A very special thanks to all the wonderful people who help bring the orchestra of music to life..... please help to keep the music alive and the arts programs in our public schools.

Just for fun- I've included a video clip of one of our personal faves....Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith talking about how he got his start in music.

Even though he does refer to yours truly as a 'naughty school girl' (must have been the pigtails) - we still love him.
Promise to get better with our camera angles next time.

Golf w/Green Day: 4/20

Help support Music in Schools Today while you enjoy a round of golf hosted by Green Day's Tres Cool.
Monday, April 20th - Sequoia Country Club

The 3rd Annual Music in Schools Today Golf Tournament, Hosted by Tré Cool will be held at the beautiful Sequoyah Country Club in the Oakland Hills on Monday, April 20, 2009. Proceeds of the event will fund Music in Schools Today's Music Integrated Learning Environment program in the Oakland Unified School District.

Register Here

This amazing event includes a full day: lunch, a round of golf at one of the Bay area's best private clubs, and dinner! Golf with Tré Cool, Mike Dirnt, Bobby Hutcherson, Lawrence Karnow, John Kessler, Tom Luce, Butch Vig, and Vinnie and Icky from RadioAlice, among many others.

Some of the Live Auction Prizes

* Radio Alice ~ Producer for a Day with Sarah & Vinnie. Value: Priceless
* Dude Ranchers Association ~ 4 nights at Rancho de los Caballeros + golf +
Southwest Airlines ~ 2 unrestricted round-trip tickets. Value: $3300
* Calistoga Ranch ~ 3 days/2 nights in Bay Forest Lodge. Value: $2000
* Reunion Resort Orlando ~ 3 days/2 nights with deluxe accomodations +
JetBlue Airways ~ 2 round-trip tickets. Value: $1500
* CordeValle ~ 2 days/1 night, plus a round of golf for two. Value: $1235

Silent Auction Prizes

* Gretsch ~ Hawaiian Guitar with Pickup & Gig Bag, Aged Natural. Value: $959
* Gretsch ~ Double Jet Guitar with Gig Bag. Value: $790
* Leedy ~ Snare Drum, donated by the Gretsch Foundation

Hope to see you there.

Beautiful Freedom

Photo Courtesy - Robert Altman
(collector editions prints of this photo available )


Mr Havens performed a very intimate show last Sat. night at the Napa Valley Opera House. Harry Manx opened - a special evening.

Havens played a 2 hour set strong, full of spirit and sweaty. The master strummer and vintage man gave us Freedom along with many other greats and closed out the evening with Cocker tune "You Are So Beautiful" and had full audience participation alternating back and forth lyric words of 'beautiful' with 'wonderful'.

Post show we quite literally ran into the legend at the elevator while exiting off the wrong floor mistakenly, which gave us a great opportunity to chat one-on-one with the man who exudes such immense warmth and kindness. One of my guests sat next to Havens in first class on a flight some 25 years ago during which the two had shared some great conversation ... some part about Haven's museum in NY for kids which he immediately recalled upon re-connecting. As the story goes, people in-flight kept coming up and kissing Haven's rings, my friend wasn't even sure who he was at that time...

We hugged and parted ways, but not before Richie graciously signed his photo in my personal copy of Robert Altman's "Sixties" book (pix above) taken by Altman in 1968 .



Generate Kindness.org

Monkey Blazes into Hollywood

Our favored race horse Mr. Monkey Jones and famed Canadian-born jockey Russell Baze -
are soon making tracks to LA.

Jockey, Baze, has made world history of Thoroughbred horse racing and is a member of the United States Racing Hall of Fame)

Look for the winning duo at Hollywood Park

Watch Baze break the world record - at 9,531 wins!

Art: you=moved

A great work of art is one that truly moves and inspires you. You yourself must be moved. Don't look at art with others' eyes. Don't listen to music with others' ears. You must react to art with your own feelings, your own heart and mind. If you allow yourself to be swayed by the opinions of others - "It must be good because everyone else likes it." "It must be bad, because no one else likes it" - your feelings, your sensibility, which should be the very core of the artistic experience, will wither and die. To enjoy art to the fullest, you must abandon all preconceived notions, leaving a blank slate. Then confront the work directly, with your entire being. If you are deeply moved, then that work is, for you, a great work of art.


Wisdom for Modern Life - Daisaku Ikeda

Beat Poets Museum

Definitely the beat poet buffs nirvana.

Found only a stones throw from Ferlinghetti's famed City Lights Bookstore in San Francisco's North Beach. Scope out some of the collection on-line The BeatMuseum.org if you can get over there for a visit and some strong coffee.

"Oh Maybe"- Exhibit 3/6-15th

What does The Ghost in the Machine look like?

Scott Kildall and Victoria Scott invite you visualize this concept as a physical object.

The Ghost in the Machine is a phrase coined by British Philosopher Gilbert Ryle to describe the separation between mind (soul) and body. Popular culture has subsequently adopted the term to refer to other ‘invisible guides’ within economic systems and machines.

This new collaborative artwork, in the form of a relational physical installation, will be premièred at the upcoming show “Oh Maybe…”.

An expert philosopher will be at the opening event to answer questions and to help viewers depict this "imaginary object" in words and images. We will integrate the results into a physical installation.

Opening party and performances - Friday March 6^th, 2009, 6 - 11pm.

Step into a recreation of Andy Warhol’s Factory and enjoy a night of art, performance and music including a Velvet Underground cover band, live silk screening, screen tests, and painting.

Admission is free.

Food and Beverage Sampling: $10 or $5 with valid student ID

Words of Wisdom

Life for everyone is a struggle against the suffering of birth, old age, sickness and death.
Happiness is not the abscence of problems or worries,
it is to be undefeated no matter what problems or worries we may face.
And this happiness is not solely focused on oneself.
Truly happy are those who can help others become happy.

Life contains the capacity, like flames that reach towards heaven,
to transform suffering and pain into the energy needed for value creation,
into light that illuminates darkness. Like the wind traversing vast spaces unhindered, life has the power to uproot and overturn all obstacles and difficulties. Like clear flowing water, it can wash away all stains and impurities. And finally, life, like the great earth that sustains vegetation, impartially protects all people with its compassionate, nurturing force.

From Buddhist philosopher and spiritual leader, Daisaku Ikeda:

Hallelujah: Cohen in Coachella Lineup

Updates on a few of our favourites - or should we say, iconic figures.

First up:
We have been waiting to see "Our Man" live, but until now, he was only touring dates in Canada.

Our prayers have been answered and LC, Leonard Cohen, is scheduled to take the stage April 17th at Coachella.

Here's a review of his recent show in NYC at the Beacon Theatre, where he played for over 3 hours.....eh, we will definitely be at the Coachella show.

SWEET!

We also congratulate Chef MC (Michael Chiarello) and Eileen on yet another inspired adventure - restaurant Bottega- which opened recently in Yountville (Napa Valley)


Seems that hard to please restaurant critic Michael Bauer was pleased and 'lusty'. His review here

Homeless - Help is Needed

We urge your compassion and support to those less fortunate.

Now more than ever, more families are becoming homeless.

The LA Family Housing (LAFH.org) has reported a 95% increase in demand for their services from people in need of food and shelter for themselves and their children.

Partnering for Change reported:

As unemployment becomes worse, community-based organizations are noticing a change in their clientele. Shelters are seeing clients who are more representative of the newly unemployed.
In recent months we've noticed a change in the needs of our program feeding homeless children. I've mentioned, there are over 11,000 elementary age children in Orange County, CA who are homeless. They are homeless for different reasons.
But here's a scenario you wouldn't think would take place:
Two able body parents in their early 30's. He has a 4 year college degree in marketing, she went to a technical school in information technology. Both are smart with a willingness to work. They have 3 kids, ages 8, 5 and 2. But guess what, they are both unemployed....for 9 months now.

What would you do? When your unemployment runs out and no matter how hard you try, you can't seem to get a job? How would you feed your family? How would provide shelter?

Unfortunately this family is representative of the new face of homelessness in our community. The college educated family forced to leave their rental home and bounce around from motel to motel with no money for food to feed their children.

Other resources:
Change.org has an entire area - end homelessness- for more information and resources.
Project Homeless Connect

Set In Stone

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is with great pleasure we welcome the latest addition to inkit.com's blogger family, Thombstone Johnson StoneBone. Applause!

We look very forward to the posts from our pal, The "King of the Road" in his own words:

I am Jack the Compassionate. The freeways, highways, streets and alleys of the San Francisco Bay Area are my royal dominion. My throne is the drivers seat of a Crown Victoria Ford. I hold court there.

A lady-in-waiting, running late for a job interview, asked me one day, "who made thee king?" In a regal and modest manner I responded.
There are many pretenders to my throne. They know not when to open the door for the old and disabled. They know not when to take the short cut, when a subject is running late. My faithful subjects and regular riders pay homage to me, they recognize me as monarch. These
are the jewels in a sovereign's crown.

When a surf, knave or buffoon plays the court jester and fails to pay proper tribute---I have yet to send one to the gallows. It's pretentious for others to claim my crown, yet I have not sent one of them to the dungeon.

I am no tyrant, but hold sway over the troubled masses in my kingdom. Late for an appointment, trying to catch a plane, giving birth, pacemaker going bad? Need a recommendation on a hotel, a restaurant,
or just someone to talk to? Only the most seasoned Road King can help you. When I grant you an audience, in a down pouring rain, you will recognize my power.

His Majesty
Jack the Compassionate
Cab Driver

Compassion and Love

Uniting romance, relationship and ascension is a code of compassion,
which goes as follows:

Be kind to yourself and others.
Come from love every moment you can
Speak of love with others
Remind each other of your spiritual purpose
Never give up hope
Know that you are loved.

(excerpt from Deepak Chopra's Path to Love)

Chopra also wrote a sutra that 'creativity is the highest form of love'

With Love and Respect, always.

Affairs of the Arts - Spring Art Show- Closing Event 5/3

(click on image to enlarge)

Spring 2009

Glass mosaic sculpture words on form
by Sofia Harrison

Additional Artists Showing:
Bren Bataclan
Lynn Bridget
Robyn Holmes
Scott Kildall
Tim Weldon


Ink Studios
NoHo Arts District
11135 Weddington Street #220
North Hollywood, CA 91601
info-at-inkit-dot-com
By Appointment
415 425 5683
(Directions)

Closing: Sunday May 3rd, 6-9pm

Additional Open Studio Dates:
Opening: March 1st. 6-9pm
Sunday March 15th, 5-7pm, Followed by Screening of Messengers documentary short
Thursday March 19th, 6-8pm, Artisan Wine & Cheese Reception
Sunday April 5th, 6-9pm

Percent of proceeds from 'Affairs of the Arts' show will go directly to support the Ink Spring Mural Project with LA Family Housing/LAFH.org. L.A. Family Housing helps homeless families and individuals rebuild their lives through an integrated system of housing and supportive services.

Please consider lending your support to families in need of shelter today.

Mr. Jones- Takes the Purse

Mr. Monkey Jones, that is.

You may not be able to rely much on the stock market these days, but looks like our boy Monkey is a good bet.


Yes, we did report on this fetching horse last summer on this blog suggesting our friends keep an eye on the horse and in fact, Monkey recently celebrated his first win (by 7 lengths), Golden Gate Fields.

Mr. Jones races again this Saturday, Feb 7th, Golden Gate Fields, 7th Race.

(Seems to be a Seven theme going with number 2)

Summer of Love; Turning 40

To commemorate the impending 40th birthday of the Summer of Love (San Francisco, 1969) we picked up "The Sixties"- a book of magical photographs from Robert Altman which truly capture the essence of the time.

The talented Mr Altman gets us very close to feeling in it with this photo/audio essay for the Guardian accompanying some of the many memorable photos from the book.

"The overriding spirit of the book is one of youthful energy and exuberance. From unashamedly naked young lovers kissing on college campuses, to protesting hippies and crowds of people, arms uplifted swaying to the music of Joan Baez and Bob Dylan - these moments, observed by former Rolling Stone magazine photographer Robert Altman, radiate optimism."- Royal Photographic Society Journal Review

Collectors prints of the photos are available as well, and well worth the investment.

The Sound of Poetry

Excerpted from Inquiring Mind's interview with poet Andrew Schelling.

IM:
In your book ef essays, Wild Form, Savage Gammar, you claim that in India a story from the Ramayana, about an archer who shoots a bird, contains what's considered to be the first poem.

AS:
It is a case of spontaneous poetry. The poet Valmiki was charged by his master with telling the story of Rama. He was wandering through the forest trying to figure out how to tell this tale when he suddenly saw an archer shoot a bird. The bird was a curlew, which doesn't have much meat nor much in the way of feathers, so it was a wanton Act of killing. What was worse was that the archer shot the male bird while it was in the act of making love to its mate. The heart-breaking sight of the female bird beating her wings onto he ground and crying out in grief prompted Valmiki to curse the archer. Later, in a moment of reflection, he realized that not only did the curse make him feel much better about his own grief but that it had come out in a rhythmic for that could be set or recited to music. The belief is that this is how poetry originated in India.

IM: A poetic curse!
AS: A curse against the wanton destruction of a wild being, a sentient being.

IM: Speaking of rhythmic curse, you claim that the sound of poetry affects us at least as much as the meaning of the words.
AS:
Poetry works with language at many different levels, and sound is the most immediate. For instance, in Buddhism some phrases have been formalized as mantras and dharanis, and while they may have some meaning attached to them, the point is more the sounds of the syllables themselves, the overtones that open up levels of awareness. It's similar to a magic spell.

Music and transcendance

I have a confession. The only time I've seen Neil Young live was when he walked by me on Haight Street while I was busking one of my tunes about a year ago. (I'm still trying to have it not mean anything that my performance was not enough to interrupt his march to wherever he was going.) In fact, the first time I remember seeing a Neil Young *performance* was just a few minutes ago, when I watched the "Like A Hurricane" video above, and I'm just floored.

There's something transcendent about his performance. The music flows with a most powerful and eloquent grace. I feel embarrassed by admitting I've never seen Neil Young live and feel like a neophyte annoyingly spouting the obvious. But I wanted to share. Neil Young rocks.

Artist Statements: Spring Show

Artists showing Spring '09 at Ink Studios in Los Angeles, opening March 1st.

Lynn Bridget

Over the past 10 years, I have created dozens of geometric designs. While appearing perfectly symmetrical, each piece is actually hand drawn adding an organic feeling to the work. With the launch of Bridget Imagines, I aim to create artwork and products for the home which are as beautiful on the surface as they are in their contribution to society. A lover of technology, design, spirituality, art, and science, I take interest in any convergence of those subjects.


Sofia Harrison

I create because I have to; story telling under broken shards of glass amuses and placates the inner sprites. My work embodies the collective thought patterns of our society: fractured but connected, expressing the combat of individuality, encompassing desire, spirit and reason. I am mixed. Media: paper, words, glass, paint, discarded and found objects, glue and grout.

The Materials & Process
I mainly cover old sash windowpanes, mannequin sculptures and furniture. Recently I have started working on wood boards. Truth is I will cover almost anything in glass and words if it’s not nailed down. I really enjoy using found objects, and I am a frequent ‘dumpster-diver’ and visitor to scrap yards --I like the idea of keeping things out of the landfills. I love glass, the feel the color and movement and I use a variety; stained, clear, dichrotic and mirror. I use oil pastels and or acrylics to paint out my piece first and then scrounge through magazines to clip out the words that will tell my stories. Each word is glued onto the hand cut glass and affixed to my ‘canvas’. I hand sand and grout the piece and then paint the grout. It is very much like traditional mosaic work but I have created my own twist through the incorporation of the word. When light shines from behind my windowpanes they become a different piece all together; I rather like the way the light can affect the piece.

Bren Bataclan

In the summer of 2003, I began my street art installation, “The Smile Boston Project.” The project involves me leaving my cartoon-inspired acrylic paintings for people to take for “free” all over Boston (park benches, trains, schools, malls, etc.). Attached to each painting is a note saying, “This painting is yours if you promise to smile at random people more often.” I have since gone worldwide with my “Smile Boston Project” and I have begun to exhibit my paintings across the country. The documentary about my street art project premiered at the Woods Hole Film Festival (Best Short Documentary winner) and a book about my artwork will be published by Gingko Press.
Goals:
- To bring art to people who typically do not visit art galleries and museums.
- Give paintings to folks who may not be able to afford original artwork.
- Just to see more smiles around the globe.
In a nutshell... I’ve always been a big fan of graffiti but I never had the guts to spray paint a wall. And so, I use different cities across the country and around the world as my exhibit spaces.

Artist site www.bataclan.com

Scott Kildall

I work at the intersection of media culture and human memory.

My artwork depicts collapse: between producer and consumer, viewer and viewed and simulated and real. I appropriate material, bend rules of consent, restage events and invite viewers to alter my exhibited pieces. These acts and products reflect a shift in cultural production — where ownership dips into a zone of ambiguity and image and sound is widely recycled. I use video, installation, prints, sculpture and performance to express desires for connection through a changing media landscape. In a recent project, I approached people at public events and asked them for a photograph. Instead, I took video. From these hundreds of clips, I compiled a 40-minute edit of strangers waiting in anticipation and smiling towards the unknown.

Lately, I have been using Second Life — an online world with simulated physical space — as a site for artistic inquiry. Here, I remediate iconic performances and realize “imaginary objects” as paper sculptures. Traditional and new media collide then recombine into a hybrid form. The notion of the original form sinks in wake of these acts. My work reveals how humans express emotions in this new topography.
www.kildall.com


Robyn Holmes

Robyn Holmes is a native mid-westerner, with a Bachelors in Fine Art from Rhode Island School of Design. She worked in New York as a graphic designer, and is currently working in the film industry in Los Angeles. She has continued to make art, selling to private collectors, and has shown in cities as diverse as Memphis, New Delhi, and Washington, D.C.

Abstract Landscapes is a series of assemblages on paper representing my personal experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Paint on hand-made paper with found objects from nature, telephone wire, and other objects creates meaningful textures. Torn paper and painted symbols create graphic patterns and language relating to these experiences.

The series of Etheric Faces in pastel represents different ethnicities and world cultures in history. The color within and surrounding the face represents the nature of that personality. These faces have been simplified down to their basic shape in order to focus on their etheric qualities. As some historical paintings show an aura surrounding a saint, these portraits represent ordinary people with their own particular energy levels.






J.Scott Cilmi

Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a graduate of the prestigious Tyler School of Art, Scott Cilmi studied painting with Frank Bramblett, Martha Diamond and Sidney Greene. He moved to the Bay Area in 1989. Always drawn to abstraction, the move to the west coast provided inspiration and motivation to explore color and form which serves as the backbone of all his paintings. New Work The focus of my recent abstract paintings has been to create a sense of energy and spirit through color, composition, line and shape. The energy may be loud and powerful or quiet and subtle. I let the painting decide. I am interested in using juxtapositions of color exploring how each layer affects the other. The paintings are more about what is left over after the process is completed. I do not set out with a specific image in mind, although there are certain images that are consistent, underlying rhythms that act as a starting point for each composition.

(copyright J. Scott Cilmi)

I work on several paintings concurrently, differing in scale, over a number of sessions; therefore, each painting is not the result of a single creative output but a culmination or refinement of a number of concentrated sessions. My work is a lot about looking at and making many small decisions within the composition until the painting says it is “done” and I have learned something from the piece.

Tim Weldon
An imaginative painter, Weldon practices what might be called
“a carnival of folkloric figuration.”

Weldon’s works are created with “DUENDE”, an inspired power of scorching passion laden with poetic verse that swirls through the composition like a cool breeze and leaves the viewer with feelings of déjà vu.

As a self-taught artist, Weldon’s body of work reveals a rich variety of themes and stylistic approaches, all facilitating a fertile arena of development.

Representing the confrontation of reality, Weldon’s paintings burst with energy and blazing color which culminate in an absolute celebration of life. Just as an illustrated fable provokes an emotion, each painting by Weldon invokes the color of life.

His surfaces are coated with thickly worked pigment mixed with sand and other materials to build layers of emotional texture. Then an assortment of rescued objects, like buttons, keys, sheet music, newsprint, old records and musical instruments are playfully choreographed, and inserted as metaphors to the dialogue and cast of characters thus defining each surface in terms of the centralized figure-ground and poetic relationship.
Paul E.Meyers, Step Gallery, New York

Science Exploration and more

Love the Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park - quite an extraordinary place. After ten years and $500 Mill, its finally here. Complete with 4-story rainforest, among many other wonders including the architectural design.

Besides all of the fun you can have learning and testing your science, every Thurs. night (feb-Oct) the venue is transformed into a lively urban center for music, science, mingling and other such provocations.
Schedule of events on-line


If you're in the Bay Area or NYC you may wish to catch one of Richie Havens upcoming shows at the most select venues, including the Napa Valley Opera House (3/6), Great American - SF (3/7) or Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC - 5/15. His new record out - Nobody Left to Crown.
Ray Manzarek and Robby Kreiger also play an evening at Napa Opera House this spring.

A few Delights of NAMM

Ink Studios hit both NAMM and Sundance this year -
At Namm, we got some great interview footage of Chad Smith - drummer for the Chili Peppers for Music in Schools on just how he got his start in music. Chad said it was at age 5 and inspired by his older brother and sister - who played guitar and piano. He says they had a 'Brady bunch style family band' and is largely a self taught musician. We'll post the interview once we get the edits.

We were big fans of Hall Glassworks crystal flutes and didjerido and demo - beautiful and impressive sound quality too.

One of the cooler somewhat random things spotted at NAMM was this little invention called the Vibramate seems like an obvious one for guitar geeks- but no one did it until now.

When we get the sparkie report in from Sundance will update more about the Ink there.

Follow Your HeART - Next Art Showing

What an AMAZING Day! It is with great gratitude that we welcome in our new Prez Obama!

Our affirmation: live in the present moment, follow your heart and be Love

Next Open Studio show theme therefore will be to Follow your Heart

Be present so you can receive the gifts and share the rich offerings
do not drown them out and peace will always be at your side
do the work that comes thru you naturally and effortlessly-
do not resist the calls,
be attuned as best you can for every sign of love that surrounds you
and be thankful always for that which you do have
your gifts are to be kind, loving and non-judgemental
know that you are timeless
nourish the spirit,
your soul with the richest of fortitude
the love of all things and a peaceful existence
And always be free on the path.

Rules of Rock

Afraid to ask?

According to Chris Isaak,
(as inscribed by Chris on this here Gretsch guitar)

The Rules of Rock:
1. Get Paid First
2. Play Louder Than The Singer Likes It
3. Avoid The Cello Player
4. They Ain't No Rules In Rock









(photo courtesy: G. Rose)

Random Noteworthy of Jan '09

Architects of a New Dawn launched 1/1/09
Carlos Santana's Media Channel

Carlos' 'vision for AOAND is a multi-tiered media company whose approach to building a new reality for the planet is based on inspiration, creativity, love & forgiveness. This is where my passion lies, and I wish to bring it forth by combining music, sacred thoughts and inspirational media. ." For more on that vision, visit the site.

Burning Man Announces '09 Theme Evolution: A Tangled Bank
prompting three related questions:
What are we as humans beings?
Where have we come from?
How may we adapt to meet an ever-changing world?
Burning Man is now accepting art proposals for the 2009 event until February 1.

GraceNote gave a first look at their CarStars Stereo system at CES "which scans your music collection and selects an artist to be your personal musical guide, giving you track suggestions depending on where you happen to be driving" Check out this video review from CNET

The company announced their support for video formats (in addition to their patented music recognition technology, a core component of ITunes and other music players).


Grissom Says Goodbye
CSI's hot thespian, William Peterson, is staying true to his core artist roots, and finally leaving CSI (after 9 seasons) for theatre back in Chi town.

Paradise Lounge , the old mainstay rock club in San Francisco, has re-opened after another reprieve between owners. A dance club, not sure if there will be any live shows. If you catch a show/event before we do, let us know. For a walk down memory lane in the locale -

Goin' Native @ LOL

Funnyman Larry Omaha takes the stage at the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Festival at the El Rey Theatre, Jan 18-19th in Los Angeles.
(Showtime Live Taping of Larry's "Goin' Native"- Indian Comedy Slam)*.

Larry has appeared on the hit Comedy Central show, "Mind of Mencia" and the very popular syndicated show, "Comics Unleashed."

Last month we caught a live show of Omaha's and now know why he makes a living causing laughter. Go see his show, you will laugh and you will thank us for suggesting it.

*The comedy special taping will be at the El Rey Theater, 5515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036. January 18th. Show begins at 5:30 PM and should last 90 minutes.

We love when you smile:)

(photo courtesy: E. Dennis)

Fret on these - Ltd Edition Prototype Bigsby

wow, these are quite stunning guitars even if you are not a musician...




We happened to stumble upon these in conversation recently with an industry friend while talking shop about the upcoming NAMM show. Here's the run down and links on these exclusive musical masterpieces.

Limited edition, Bigsby prototype guitars using many of the design features and ideas originally crafted by Paul Bigsby. http://www.bigsbyguitars.com/guitars/BY48NRT/index.html

Carved birds eye maple top with amber finish - single florentine cutaway - walnut birdseye headstock - playing card inlays on rosewood fretboard - set neck - 21 frets - Sorkin bridge base - 2 chrome control knobs vol/tone - 3 way selector switch - 2 Bigsby single coil dog-ear style pickups - Rosewood or Bigsby B3 tailpiece.


Link to several models;
http://www.bigsbyguitars.com/products_guitars_ltd.html

For those who may not know - Bigbsy is considered the Father of the Modern Electric Solidbody Guitar

"Bigbsy made the first modern solidbody electric for musician Merle Travis, completing the instrument in May 1948. Nothing like it had been seen before. Every electric guitarist today should be grateful that Paul Bisgby did what he did back then. He changed the look and sound of the guitar forever."-quote from upcoming book about Paul Bigsby who designed and developed a revolutionary guitar vibrato that is still considered by many as the best type ever built-the Bigsby True Vibrato.

Great Music Events This Month

January 10 & 11
Los Angeles (Venice Beach)

Raise the Vibration!

Call in the new year with legendary kirtan artist and bhakta Jai Uttal and servant of the shakti, Shiva Rea. Embark on a vocal journey through the sacred sounds of ancient India.

January 19th, Washington DC
Chant 4 Change
Celebrate the Inauguration of Barack Obama with sacred activist Shiva Rea, world-renowned kirtan/chant artists Jai Uttal, Dave Stringer, Gaura Vani & As Kindred Spirits and 400 other conscious revolutionaries. Join us for a full night of chant, dance, expression and teaching within sight of the White House and the Washington Monument.

Jan 16-20th
Anaheim, CA
NAMM
"The" Gear Show

Jan 23rd
San Rafael, CA
Eric McFadden & Faraway Brothers













Jan. 25th
Santa Monica, CA
Music For Peace
Free Concert, 2pm
World Peace Ikeda Auditorium