Be Yourself
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This Is For You There is one thing I wish someone throughout my life would have told me. Pursuing your passions in life is never as easy as people make it appear. There are no set directions for the untraditional journey to chase your dreams. The harsh reality lies within the realization that we might not make it.
Now ask yourself... Would you rather regret what could have been or live with the fact you gave it everything you had? It’s an everyday struggle to find the inspiration to chase after what you want in this life. GiveUhDamn is here to make sure you have every reason to work harder than the day before. GUD Mag showcases the artistry of the talented youth while inspiring others to chase their dreams.
To tell the complete truth... Our generation is creating entirely too much impressive shit to go unnoticed. Mainstream media may turn a blind eye to your work... But it does not mean what you have created isn’t worth the acknowledgment.
Everything we create is art. The most beautiful thing about art is the individual interpretation. What may seem wack to you is inspiring to someone else.
Don’t be afraid to do what you want to do in this life. The only thing stopping you is you.
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C O N T E N T S
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Life Wont Let You Forget Where You Came From
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he most pivotal lessons in life lie within the things we fail to understand . Let me explain...
I grew up 30 minutes from the Gulf Coast and 4 hours from Mexico on the south-ddside of Corpus Christi, TX. In the most general sense, the city in my eyes was nice. You don’t really over-think your surroundings until about high school or college because perception changes with time. Around my first year at Del Mar College, I was highly observant and critical of the city. One day in class, I remember having this distinct feeling of irritation. It felt like the days where you wake up on the wrong side of the bed. I sat in the back of the class in deep thought. In my opinion, there lied an uncomfortable amount of negativity in my city. People I went to school with were falling into crime. Single teen moms had become common. The only growth involved the expansion of another Wal-mart or the addition of more fast food chains. There was no desire for anyone to stay here. It felt like a trap and the only way to come up, was to get out. A week before Christmas in December of 2016, I made the move to Denver, CO. Temperatures were below 20 degrees and the roads were covered with snow. When you live in South Texas for so long, you sometimes forget what Winter feels like. Perfect reason to stay in the house. I can’t recall the day, but I
remember having a conscious and constructive conversation with one of my friends from back home. At a certain point, I mentioned the repositioning of my brand (GUD). Unconsciously, I went on this passionate tangent about uplifting the youth. Then it hit me...… I never took the time to question my harsh outlook on the city that raised me. I spent countless hours bad mouthing my hometown’s imperfections with no actual idea to resolve the problem. What if I could bring back something for the people that I wish was available for myself growing up? What if I can contribute to filling the lack of creative expression and inspiration in the city? We grow up watching other people live out our dreams social media and television. In Reality, it feels almost impossible to attain when you’re in such a small city. These days, I find myself more inspired by the people I meet in real life, than some of my favorite artist. Relatability is the key to motivation. There is this special feeling when you can witness someone from the same city just like you, begin to manifest their dreams. I was once told, “It’s impossible to know where you’re going until you know where you came from”. I understand what he meant now more than ever. The bittersweet relationship with home has subsequently become my reason to continue chasing the reality I envision. So remember, the most pivotal lessons in life lie within the things we fail to understand.
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iveUhDamn’s magazine is an extremely important project to me. I try my absolute best to only put out the best quality work I can muster up. With this being the first issue, I had to make it extra meaningful. What better way to start a new chapter to GUD than shining light on where it all started. The first 3 issues of GUD magazine will pay homage to the inspiring young creative of Texas. A trifecta I would like to call “The 3rd Coast Edition”. It all starts in Corpus Christi, and then ventures to Austin/San Antonio. The 3rd Coast edition will come to a close with Dallas/Houston. GUD first started in Texas. Throughout the complicated years of building the brand, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to speak with many inspiring artist and designers. My goal from day 1, has been to inspire and motivate this generation to chase their dreams. I rather give it all I had and fail than to live a life full of regret. You have to work twice as hard as the dream you strive for. GET-INSPIRED
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RAY TALAMANTEZ RAY
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rowing up, my grandfather use to tell me “Thank God for the good times and bad times”. I never truly understood what he meant until I was older. There is no day without night. There is no good without bad. We would never know how to stand up if we didn’t fall down. It’s almost inconceivable to think that in the darkest of days, we learn the most about ourselves. Ray Talamantez can certainly attest to this concept of growth.
detail in each piece led me to believe there was a deeper message in his creations.
23 year-old Ray “EatzSandwhiches” Talamantez creates some of the most intriguing and introspective art in Corpus Christi, Texas. Over the years, Ray has seen his fair shares of ups and downs. Through it all, his safe haven turned out to be his biggest passion in life; creating art .
“My childhood was shit to be honest, but my mother made everything bearable. We lived in section 8 housing for a while, but slowly climbed up from there. All thanks to my mom” said Ray. “She had us young and didn’t finish high school. She held two kids down and got her GED. Everything improved from there.”
I stumbled up the King High School graduate on Twitter while searching for some home grown talent. The odd Twitter handle “RayEatzSandwhiches” caught my attention alongside his artwork. Each piece had this dark undertone but was still refreshing. As a big Flying Lotus fan, his artwork reminded me of his sound visually. The
Ray wasn’t dealt the perfect hand during his childhood. The Talamantez family lived in section 8 housing and was headed by his strong and independent single mother. Despite the circumstance, Ms. Talamantez made sure she gave the family the best life possible.
Motivated by the superwomen ways of his mother, Ray decided step up and help his family. He picked up a fulltime job at a financial company and was able to find his first sense of financial stability. Despite his income, something still felt incomplete.
“I just want others to know that everybody has a purpose.
It takes time and a shit ton of hardship to find it but it’s there. so do not stop moving.”
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t was by far the most hollow I’ve ever felt. I was experiencing a lot of loss at the time, and I had nothing to help cope since I wasn’t really creating art at the time. I hit an all time low” said Ray. “Depression sat in the back of my mind. Feeding on pretty much everything. In an attempt to distract myself, I picked up a sketchbook from hobby lobby one day and I haven’t looked back.” During the darkest of times, Ray found his true pursuit to happiness with art. His designs serve as not only a passion, but also an outlet of expression for the introverted creative. Each design is a conceptual piece. Inspired by fictional stories like “The Girl with all the
“In an attempt t I picked up from hobby l I haven’t lo
Gifts” by M.R. Carey and music such as “DNA” by Kendrick Lamar, the goal is to make a picture worth a thousand words. “I always have a story to a piece. Sometimes complex, sometimes simple, but always a story” said Ray. “For example, my recent piece with the two divers ““contents within”” was sparked while listening to DNA. What I hear or read creates the most vivid image in my head. That’s why if anyone ever borrows my books, they’ll see so many of my favorite phrases highlighted throughout.” Overtime, he has sharpened his artistic skills in a variety
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forms, such as sketch, paint, and digital. Ray’s most preferred form is the good ol’ pen and paper but Aaron Lopez (friend) recently shared his keys to painting. The one thing that sets up the perfect vibe for creation is of course, music. It is the soundtrack to life. “Rock will always have a special place in my heart. My favorite are Circa Survive and Every Time I Die” he said. “ As of late, I’ve enjoyed a lot of hip-hop like Logic, Kendrick, and Run The Jewels. My mood is always enhanced by music which allows me to produce better quality work.”
to distract myself, a sketchbook lobby one day. ooked back.”
Even when we become our own worst critic, he understands the importance of finding enjoyment in your work. Having found his happiness within his artistic visions has opened Ray’s mind to a entire new way of thinking. A mindset with more comfort and positivity. Everyday is not like the last, but when you truly feel you are on the right path, nothing can stop you...but you. “The concept of happiness was foreign to me and I just wanted some type of purpose in life. To have this now, I am extremely fortunate and everybody should know they have a purpose. It takes time and a shit ton of hardship to find it, but it’s there. DO NOT STOP MOVING.”
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Troy
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From Disposable
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n life, it’s important to follow the things that make you happy. Your interest will naturally cause you to gravitate towards different activities. Picking up the guitar and rocking a few shows. Designing artistic pieces and participating in a high school art show. Hobbies come and go, but there is always something that sticks with you. For Troy Garza, that something is photography. The 21-year-old Corpus Christi native grew up enjoying all sorts of art forms, from music to paintings. Despite participating in high school art shows and playing guitar at the local art walk, nothing grabbed Troy’s attention like a digital camera. Troy discovered his first camera as a young boy. When his parents would take trips , their son would snap photos of damn near everything in sight on his little disposable camera. “I first got into photography when I was really young,” said Troy. “I would be the one taking photos of everything! Even though I would go through those disposable cameras so fast.”
At the age of 18, Troy decide purchased a Nikon L830 on Blac Vargas, purchased a Nikon DD time. Two friends with two very instantly became fascinated with
“A few years later, I purchase started taking photos,” said Tro doubled! I had always been into let me further understand his cam interested.”
Overtime, Troy has become well it’s shooting ads for clothing bra House of Rock, being behind the Imagine the high intensity crowd non-stop artist movement. Now perfect shot within that moment. Troy thrives in these settings.
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To Collectible
ed to invest in his passion and ck Friday. His best friend, Adrian D3300 DSLR around the same y different quality cameras. Troy h the mechanics of both cameras.
ed a Nikon D5300 DSLR and oy. “My followers on Instagram o photography but when Adrian meras mechanics, I was seriously
l-versed in many settings. Rather rands or live punk shows at The lens gets his adrenaline pumping d, wall-rattling vibrations and the w imagine trying to capture the . It may sound quite difficult, but
“My favorite is shooting live shows because they challenge me with low light and no ability to control your subject,” said Troy. “My adrenaline really gets pumping during live show shoots because timing is really important.” Photography has a special place in Troy’s life, but it is not the only career he plans to pursue. In the next five years, Troy will attend school for his EMTC and become a firefighter while still improving behind the lens part-time. “I am going for my EMT in the spring,” said Troy. “I’ll have to work at my job full-time and work full-time but I am ready for the challenge. In 5 years I want to have a steady career and do photography on the side. None of it would feel like a job because I’ll be doing what I love.”
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Give It Your All And See Where You End Up In Life - Troy Garza
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e learn the most about ourselves through the things we love. These interest open our mind to self-realizations we would not see on our own. This is where the personal growth begins. 19-year-old photographer, Thomas Garcia, is the prime example. Thomas has always been fascinated with the visual aspects in life. From the perfectly timed shots in Thrasher magazine to photo-shoots on Instagram of his favorite artist, the art of photography always captured his attention. In 2016, Mrs. Garcia (Thomas’ mother) blessed him with his first DSLR camera as a graduation gift. Ever since then, he’s spent countless hours improving his craft. “My mom bought me the camera I have today as a graduation gift last year and I have honestly been shooting ever since,” said Thomas. With almost two years of experience under his belt, Thomas has displayed an impressive signs of progression. Every moment captured is a testament to his mental and physical investment for the art form. The journey of growth is inspiring when you realize his skills are all self-taught. “The hardest thing I’ve had to learn was taking a picture; as crazy as that sounds,” said Thomas. “In middle school, I learned how to navigate Photoshop at a amateur level. So editing wasn’t completely new to me. Now taking the picture, (MAN) there was much more to it than I understood.” One of the biggest inspirations for the young creative is 24-year-old accomplished photographer,
Gunner Stahl, from Atlanta, GA. Gunner’s dedication landed his work with Gucci Mane and Metro Boomin on the cover of Fader magazine. When you see someone close to your age flourish through quality of work, it’s hard to not feel some type of motivation. The rise of the portrait photographer’s career in hip-hop spoke to Thomas on a special level. “The thought of someone being just another fly on the wall taking photo’s while timeless music was created really reached me,” said Thomas. “Plus, he is really young too.” Earlier, I mentioned “people learn the most about themselves through the things they love.” When he began to see the maturity and growth in his work and personality, Thomas knew he had found his purpose. The aesthetics of the moments captured behind the lens taught him to be more comfortable with conversation and unlocked his levels of creativity. “I’ve never really been a social person but when I picked up the camera, my life took a huge turn,” said Thomas. “It was frustrating learning to talk more or going to other places. I had to learn how to stay myself while becoming a better me. I owe it literally all to this thing I take with me everywhere.” Currently in the works is Thomas’ first in-depth photography book / portfolio entitled “LIFESTYLE”. The project will display his photographic journey and how every person, place or event has complimented his growth. A release date is TBA but the future is certainly bright. When you do what makes you happy in life, you never know what you may take from it.
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finding yourself
Behind The Lens
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It’s never going to hurt to introduce yourself or just say hi.
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The big homie, Omar, once told me to always say hi.
Send that message. Shake that hand. Just do it. Shoot that shot. - Thomas Garcia
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ge does not determine the size of your dreams. Some people will doubt your potential and tell you what they think is best for you. Not everyone wants to see you make it and that’s alright. At the end of the day, you control your own destiny. Zito Clothing embodies this way of thinking to inspire those with a vision.
look through the Z section in the dom,” said Mikey. “ The word Zi like an outcast. My love for cloth the brand. I want people to see w them wear my art.”
Last October, 17-year-old, Mikey Vasquez channeled his infatuation with the artistry of street wear and created Zito. The clothing brand allowed Mikey to showcase his dedication and creative capabilities.
The inspiration for Zito’s designs Mikey prefers to channel a vibe t surroundings to lead the artistic of creating any sort of art is the c Mikey would create 40 ideas just
“After finishing up my test on PSAT Testing day, I decided to
“Designs don’t come easy. I can t
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e dictionary out of pure boreito stood out and stuck with me hes spirited everything behind what I can create and witness
s come from a variety of places. through music, movies or his direction. The hardest part creative process. Sometimes, t to scrap each one.
tell you that,” said Mikey. “Once
I get that vibe or in that creative mode, I do whatever I can to make good designs for Zito.” It’s been a solid year since the birth of the brand but the city has showed much support. The encouragement from family and friends continues to motivate Mikey to push the personal boundaries of Zito. From opening his own local store in Corpus Christi to taking the Zito name to the streets of Japan, Mikey refuses to dream small. “I love the people of the city for their support,” said Mikey. “I’m extremely thankful. I want to make a brand that is seen all over the world. I want people to see Zito every where they go.”
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don’t listen to any of the negative shit people will feed You They just don’t want you to make it listen to yourself trust your ideas do what you love to do. - Mikey Vasquez
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he only thing to it, is to do it. We all have these amazing ideas in our minds. The hardest part is bringing them to fruition. The fear of failing usually holds people back. But ask yourself this; would you rather fail trying or regret what could have been? 17-year-old, Sammy Rodriguez, decided to make his vision a reality with Sev7en Clothing. You’re never too young to get out your dreams. Sammy’s love for design and street-wear culture has continued to grow since middle school. From the ever-changing sneaker culture to celebrity outfits, the fashion industry lent inspiration for the Corpus Christi native to create something of his own. By his freshman year in high school, the idea of starting his own brand was concrete. The only thing holding him back was finding a place to start. After two years of conjuring up a plan of action, Sammy decided to go for it in April of 2017. “My Junior year, I had the idea behind my head still. Finally, I just told myself “Screw It”.” said Sam-
my. “The ideas immediately started flowing. From designs to execution, I had thought about all of it. I knew I had to run with this. If I never tried, I would never know.” Each design is inspired by his favorite music. From the sounds and vibrations to the overall vibe, Sammy submerges himself into a comfortable space for creativity. With about three releases under his belt since April, the feedback has been nothing but satisfactory. “I’m happy with Sev7en right now but not satisfied” said Sammy. “ With my brand becoming more known in the city, I plan to continue growing my brand and create something bigger than I’ve ever imagined”. This is only the beginning. Sev7en represents the individuals who live without labels. The hope is to inspire others to go after their dreams. Sammy is still in high school but serves as a prime example of why you have to take the leap of faith. The only thing to it, is to do it.
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Don’t put your happiness aside for anybody else’s. Even if you do fail, keep your head up. You did something many wouldn’t even attempt . TRYING - Sammy Rodriguez
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Comida para el alma
n hindsight, it is hard to envision just how far our passion will lead us in life. What may seem like a hobby when were young, could transpire into the career we only dreamed of. Corpus Christi locals, Omar Arellano and Svani Quintanilla, started off hosting events and writing about their favorite restaurants. These interest led to an ongoing movement in the community with the birth of “Comida” on August 5, 2016.
Omar and Svani always had the urge to create something that combined the elements of food, music, art and community. Comida is the spanish translation for food. The reasoning behind the
name is because the art of food involves many senses. Food has a unique visual appeal, taste, and feel. The concept of the event is to give people more than just a good time, but an inspiring experience like never before. Authentic “Comida para el alma” or “food for the soul”.
“Comida is an event for networking, making friends, special food experiences, giving back to the community, and much more” said Omar. “It’s a way to see life differently. Showing people a good time for a good cause. We don’t ask for much. Just to give back to the city the best you can.” Still young in its creation, Comida
events involve tasty food pop-ups and visually intriguing art shows while incorporating the high level of musical energy at each function. The inspiration stems from more than just a passion for food and music. Musical artist such as Cumbiasazo (Chicago), Peligrose (Austin) and the world wide Soulection Radio inspired the drive to create more of a movement than an event. “We like to eat but we also wanted to add music to the experience,” said Omar. “We’ve been inspired by Soulection radio and various artist who bring people together through so many things. We wanted to do our own thing here for Corpus Christi.”
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August 5th marked the official one year anniversary for Omar and Svani’s creation. In one year, Comida has seen multiple features in the Corpus Christi Caller Times, on-air appearances with Channel 3 News “Domingo Live”, sponsorship with Topo Chico, and donated over 150 lbs of canned goods to the local food bank. Having accomplished so much in its first year, it’s only right to have an anniversary celebration for the city.
“Our anniversary was hectic behind the scenes but it was damn worth it!,” said Omar. It’s just a crazy feeling seeing people work for the same dream. I never could envision we would be here. We came from strictly wanting to show people good food and music to THIS. It’s crazy to me still,” As a good friend of mine personal, Omar’s story has taught me one thing; don’t forget to trust your ideas. We get so caught up in the execution and planning of our creations that we forget what
we do it for. No one can do what you do, the way you do it. Trust in yourself and know you are your only competition. (Note from Omar: Special thanks to Aaron Ybarra, Svani Quintanilla, Mayra Zamora, Aaron Ybarra and Midori Allen.)
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Don’t give up. Let people laugh and doubt you. The moment you give up, they win. Be confident and know there is nothing you can’t do. Follow your heart. - Omar Arellano
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here are two types of people in this world. On one side, you have people who talk about change. On the other side lies the people who put in the ground work and take action. Corpus Christi has always lacked a local music scene; especially in hip-hop. Inspiring music artist are spread throughout the city but there lied a lack of progressive cohesiveness. This all changed with the innovative creation of CC Friday’s. Every other night, Tony Lara, Nick Arriaga and a couple of their friends would casually hang out. It was the norm for Nick and a few others to listen to music and freestyle together. As a group of young creatives and hip-hop enthusiast, everyone shared the same sentiment. The lack of musical expression for younger residents in the city. Tony (CCF President) presented the idea of a community gathering where people could freestyle and showcase their talents. Nick (Treasurer) suggested the trademark Watergardens area as a venue and Ot Reyna (Co-founder) provided the equipment. Tony, Ryan & Nick Arriage, Ot Reyna,
Jada DeDonder and Samatha Casanova had come together to take the hip-hop scene to new heights. “ Whenever we would hang out, we always talked about what we felt the city was lacking or what we all needed to bring a higher quality of life here,” said Nick. “When Tony approached me about the idea, it just all made sense.” Every first and third Friday of the month, a crowd of like-minded creatives and music fans flood the Water Gardens Park to enjoy an event like no other. Aspiring artist pick up the mic and showcase their talent. On occasion, other genres such as punk, alternative and psychedelic rock will lay down some different sounds for the people. Aside from special events held at the House of Rock, The ExChange or NASA, every event is free to the public. “The hardest part about carrying this out is keeping at it. It’s a daily grind to keep everything moving forward” Tony said. “Some days are harder than other, but I love it! It’s been an honor to do something the community appreciates so much.”
CC Friday’s a hip-hop platform that preserves and progresses the local culture. The most inspiring part of this creation comes from the outlet it provides the youth. Creative and artistic expression is pivotal for the community. CC Friday’s was established in 2015 and has brought camaraderie to the youth that is undeniable. “The most rewarding part is when artist tell me how they are more motivated and inspired to create new music after our events,” said Tony. “I hope that we continue to push each other and elevate as artist TOGETHER.” This is only the beginning for CCF. In the future, the plan is to continue growing by adding headliners, creating festivals, bringing in new vendors and landing an official venue. Having accomplished so much since its birth, these are all foreseeable in the near future. So always remember, some people talk sh*t and other do sh*t. Become the change you want to see in your community.
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Don’t quit. Learn from every opportunity you get. There are no mistakes. If you learn from what you do. - Tony Lara
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Tomorrow will never come if you don’t prepare for today. You need to be able to wake up with that passion you fell asleep with. -Nick Arriaga
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DAMN
Dreamchild Ft. Madbliss “Heatrock”
Solcace Self-Produced “No More”
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Boy w Self-Pro “Hyper C
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wndr oduced Cube HD”
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LISTENS
Eros PrD. Bobby earth “Venus”
Murk various producers “diamond”
Thank You Andre (Futurist) Mason Roberts (Wavezzz) Thomas Garcia Troy Garza Nicholas Arriaga Sammy Rodriguez
Israel (afterglow) Mikey Vasquez Murk
Ray Talamantez Adrian Vargas Tony Lara