Summer 2012 V2 by df publications

Table Of Contents

Letter From the Editor

Welcome to DF Magazine’s Summer 2012 issue! It’s been quite an adventure putting it together. We have gone through quite a transition this summer and we have emerged more excited than ever about the new DF Magazine. I would like to introduce (and reintroduce, for some) our staff beginning with Ashley Mitchell in New York, to Karina Alexandra in LA, and all the home staff in SA and Austin, Rudy Lozano IV, Ernesto Rodriguez, Julie Bera, Angelica Tucker, Angel Vega, Manuel Leal Jr, Hector Espinoza, Mika Locklear, and Margaret Ann Garza. Without you, DF would not be possible. I would like to thank you for all your hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I would also like to thank all of artists in this issue for sitting down or picking up the phone to chat with us and for sharing your work with DF. Later this year, we will be celebrating our 1st year anniversary with a limited edition print issue. Stay tuned to find out where to get it! I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed making it. It’s always fun to be “Down For” the Arts! Sincerely, Nancy Santos President and Editor in Chief DF Magazine

4 The Sounds Angelica Tucker 10 Fun. Mika Locklear 14 Black Taxi Ernesto Rodriguez 17 Summer Chic Julie Bera 21 Fred Moses: The Man Behind the Photographs Julie Bera 24 Oysterbake Ernesto Rodriguez 28 Alfred Perez Life on the Alpha Corner Ernesto Rodriguez 34 Russel Stevenson: A Man For all Mediums 36 Tell Everyone! Word of Mouth is Back! Ernesto Rodriguez 40 Schizophrenic Love Story Mika Locklear 44 San Antonio: Where Films are Made Ernesto Rodriguez 52 Jordan : A San Antonio Model Ernesto Rodriguez 54 Cirque Du Soleil’s Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour San Antonio Mika Locklear Photo by Doodledemoon 2

Photo by Doodledemoon

The Sounds

rock! Period. From the day they first began, Maya Ivverson, Felix Rodriguez, Johan Bengtsson, and Jesper Anderberg knew that they were bound for fame. With a voice like that and a stage presence that demands the use of all your senses, I can see where the band gets their confidence. As Maya puts it in a past interview, “It wasn’t about if we were gonna make it, it was about when.” This Swedish band came from simple beginnings with dreams of traveling the world to perform their music. They have toured with popular bands such as Paramore, No Doubt, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Foo Fighters. Their sound is pop and rock infused with casual undertones of electronic. We had the pleasure of standing front row at one of their shows in Austin, Texas at La Zona Rosa. It was not long before The Sounds had the audience under their spell. The show was absolutely crazy, to say the very least. The whole band is exceptionally talented. It’s the type of show you daydream about in your head. You know? The one where the band does everything in its power to overwhelm you in awe! They deliver when it comes to putting your day dreams into action. Until the day of the concert, I had not had the pleasure of watching a show quite like it before. Beer gets tossed at the crowd, and the audience is not only thrilled, they want more! It’s an over all high voltage experience. The show go-ers are cheering and singing along to every song while they gladly dance their hearts out in any tiny space they can find. Their fourth album, Something to Die For (a personal favorite), was recorded in Sweden. It was the first album they produced independently. After working with multiple producers, they came to the conclusion that the demos were always better then the end result. Don’t you just love a band that can recognize their own talent and then not allow anyone to stand in the way of their vision? You can move to the music with the songs “Dance with the Devil” and “Something to Die For.” It’s a touch on the gone 80’s side of life infused with a bit of trance. Currently, the band is off in Europe. They also have high hopes of delighting Japan with an excursion soon. You can get a further run down on the band at TheSounds.com. Keep an eye out for when they hit the U.S. again. You’ll be glad DF told you about them!

Story By: Angelica Tucker

Photography: Thomas Green

Photography by Leanne McCauley

â&#x20AC;&#x153; The work of art may have moral effect, but to demand moral purpose from the artist is to make him ruin his work. â&#x20AC;&#x153; Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

Interwined by Ernesto Rodriguez

FUN. FUN.

Fun. @ SXSW 2012 At the parking lot of the famous Waterloo Records, fans packed into the small space to experience the up and coming band Fun. With their hit “We Are Young,” Fun. has broken into the popular music scene with nothing but a positive response. Nate Ruess, the lead singer, jokingly told a story about him and his band members getting a “swag coach,” like Justin Bieber, to reach his level of “swag.” Joking continued throughout the show, and they engaged the audience in every aspect. “Fun has broken into the popular music scene with nothing but a positive response.”

They are a Fun-loving (pun intended) and an entertaining trio to watch. Their live set rivals their recorded tracks. I could go as far to say I enjoyed their songs live, more than on their record. This trio is definitely one to keep an eye on. Fun. has proven that their music appeals to a large crowd and stays true to their musical capabilities. No auto-tuning here. They are young, talented, and definitely setting the world on fire. Story and Photos by: Mika Locklear

FUN. 12

Photography: Mika Locklear 13

HAPPY MUSIC, HIGH INNOVATION The indie scene is a great place to find great music written and played by people who you can relate to directly. The goal simply, is to make music and enjoy what you do. The band Black Taxi is a great example of the indie spirit. I had heard about them a while ago but I hadn’t really given them too much thought, however this go around, their music really intrigued me. Black Taxi, out of Brooklyn, New York, has been making waves ever since they splashed into the indie scene. Every beat and rhythm is spot on, pulling you into their stream of thought. The happy go-lucky energy that they exude is as infectious as the melodies they use. Their sound is reminiscent of the 80’s with a hint of 90’s alternative pop. The extremely popular song “Shoeshine” and its clever video have already, in its short time out, been nominated for a Webby Award.

“The Band Black Taxi is a great example of the Indie spirit.”

“Tight Rope,” their latest single, has a sedate, bouncy element to it. “Up Here For Thinking, Down There For Dancing” is fast with light rhythms and playful lyrics that have a nice balance that can draw anyone in. Black Taxi consists of Ezra Huleatt, Bill Mayo, Krisana Soponpong and Jason Holmes. The quartet released their second album, “Things of a Different Nature,” which offers up a nice blend of songs at different tempos and moods. It’s great for a drive home or just for jamming out. It is nice to see independent bands, such as Black Taxi, get attention on this level. In 2012, the album “We Don’t Know Any Better” served as a reminder to the world that Black Taxi is still on the scene making original, creative music. The release of the Album coupled with their appearance at the SXSW music and film festival in Austin made for a powerful presence. The idea that there are still innovative bands that can both make great music and have fun is very comforting. If you are looking for a band to lift your spirits, I would suggest looking up Black Taxi on iTunes and buying their music. Remember, if you like the music support the artist. Story by: Ernesto Rodriguez

Photos by Micheal Fiske 14

As the temperature outside continues to rise, now is the time to ditch the dreary duds and cool off in the hottest new trends for summer. A large part of what we’re seeing, this summer, is a revamping of the classics. So ladies, dive into your closet and bring out that classic black party dress, your pastels, and those pretty printed 80’s inspired jeans. Here are some other trends that will help you put the sizzle into your summer wardrobe. Nothing says it’s summer more than the emerging of tiny sundresses on the city streets. This season, we are seeing them in hot neon colors or with the calming and cool pastels. Pair with the classic neutral accessories and flirty flats to help dial back the temperature of this number. For feverish nights at the club, make your look sizzle with hot neon accessories. Take your classic black cocktail dress, and transform it by throwing on a vibrant yellow bangle or tangerine orange necklace making this oldie a goodie.

Summer Chic

Soft pastels are also very popular this season. A light mint pastel made its appearance throughout fashion week. We see paired, a top with some high waisted shorts. It is also in many of the prints this summer. It can also make a cool as a cucumber impression when worn as a solid when layering or, in a pair of floral print skinny jeans, which is another fashion that is growing on us. What better way to cool off, while exposing a little skin, than to go with a neutral colored lace top overlaid on a pop of color? Pair this lace top with a denim maxi skirt or a pair of long waisted shorts to give you the perfect carefree and casual look. You can put your finishing touches on when you pair this look with a pair of sassy Hercules sandals and a leather clutch. Paisley, stripes and florals, oh my! Prints are BIG this summer. Be sure to not over do it though. The prints this season are all about pairing them with neutral layers. Try a pair of dusty pink floral skinny jeans and a soft mint green top with a neutral cami layered underneath. You can also add: metallics, patchwork,embellishments, or printed cut off shorts, to your day wear this summer to add, to any look, an extra sass, fizzle, and pop. Trends by: Julie Bera

Model: Margaret

Model: Margaret Ann Garza by AnnPhotosModel : Margaret Ann Garza Photos Mika Locklear

Wayde Patrick Brooks 16

Model Karina Alexandra 18

Model: Margaret Ann Garza Photography: Mika Locklear

The Man Behind the Photographs :

An in-depth interview with Fred Moses of the known EandJ’s Photography

Daily, we appreciate that medium that needs no words to instill emotion, direction, and information. Images are everywhere but how often do we consider and appreciate the men and women that make these images come to life? I had the pleasure of being able to sit down with Fred Moses of EandJ’s photography of San Antonio, TX this past week. He took the time to share the inside scoop on how he became interested in photography, what it took to gain his success, and some advice for those up and coming photographers. “Fred,” I asked, “When would you say you first became interested in being a photographer?” He flashed a smile that told me it was going to be a good story. “I first started in Japan when I was about twelve years old.” He went on to tell me about how he acquired a single use camera with a comic book he bought and how he began going around Japan taking pictures. His father was in the Air Force so as he traveled around the world his passion followed him. He liked to discover new places and see anything he could. His passion for discovery and taking beautiful pictures was evident as he talked about his passion and how he took a hobby and made it into a successful career. Fred Moses moved to San Antonio over a decade ago. When he first started out here he was taking pictures of landscapes and other beautiful things. When asked how long it took him to reach his stride as a fashion and studio photographer he said it took a while, about 10 years. I asked what his biggest struggle was in becoming the artist he is today. “Marketing,” Fred said in one decisive word. “At first I put a lot of money into marketing myself, later I found that word of mouth, Facebook, and, before Facebook, My Space were the best way for me to market.” He also described the difficulty in breaking into the fashion world. He explained that it could be difficult because the magazines and publications are a tight society. He said, understandably, that they have the photographers that they like and always use and that this makes it difficult to break into the business. “It’s all about who you know,” he added. With all his experience, I asked Fred what his favorite shoot was. He spoke of a shoot at Breckenridge Park in San Antonio. He described the beauty of the park that day, the green grass, and the water. He explained that it’s his favorite because he can’t ever get a picture from there again, not like that, “The park has just changed too much over the years,” said Fred, “The water is all dried up because of the drought, it will just never be the same.” Fred is a photographer who finds that “putting the clients wants first and then pushing them a touch farther” is the optimal way to both satisfy his client and make amazing images like the ones you see here. Fred’s favorite lens is the versatile cannon 24-105. When asked a favorite time to shoot outdoors, “In the morning.” He says, “It’s optimal especially when there is a little bit of overcast in the sky.” As far as editing goes, Fred uses Photoshop CS5. Then, I added, “Okay now, the question on all our reader’s minds, “Are you a Mac or a PC?” “I’m a PC”, he said pridefully. Fred currently does up to 28 shoots a month, depending on the month. Some days he is doing multiple shoots and, although Fred has no formal form of education in photography, it has become a skill he has perfected over time. His success ranges from photographer for fashion and makeup shoots, to in studio photographer, to concert photographer. He has shot many bands from the hits like Petey Pablo, to the classics like Asleep at the Wheel. He has been doing photography since he was 12 but it wasn’t until years after he moved to San Antonio that he hit his stride. He said that it took time to get to where he is now but, for up and coming photographers, he advises for you not give up because it’s worth the wait. Additional advice from Fred, “Be yourself,” he said with sincerity. “Do not try to mimic someone else’s style get your own style. Don’t try to be someone else.” I’m very glad I had this chance to sit with Fred and learn more about him. I regret that there is no way for me to share all I learned, but if you want to get to know him or are looking for a photographer of your own, you are invited to visit his website where you can find examples of his work and contact information. He is also on Facebook just search EandJ’s Photography. Story by: Julie Bera

Model: Steven Images: EandJ Photography Makeup: J. Anthony Martinez 21

Images: EandJ photography Makeup: J. Anthony Martinez Models: Left Nicole and Right Christina Coker

Paalia25

Oyster Bake in The City of Fiesta

San Antonio is a city of rich colors and culture. One of our many traditions is the annual Oyster Bake held at St. Mary’s University. Last weekend the beautiful campus of was filled with crowds of people eager to jam to beats of Smash Mouth and Kevin Fowler. Other local bands also performed on the many stages each of which featured different styles of music. Each major station here in San Antonio had a stage including Magic 105.3, Y100, 91.7, 98.5 the Beat and 99.5 Kiss.

We are a city of diversity and this was a great display of our ability to accommodate everyone.

Down For Magazine was there to capture the spirit of the event and it was a pleasure. I had the privilege of seeing Smash Mouth live. As a child of the 90’s I can appreciate the music they played that night. They played ‘Walking on the Sun’ one of their big hits from the album Fush Yu Mang circa 1997. The crowd returned their energy with cheers of their own. The lead singer even bragged about San Antonio knowing how to party. On the other side of the spectrum, Kevin Fowler made a great impression with his powerful but classic style of country. What a performance and what a presence he holds! The enthusiasm on the stage and from the crowd would make anyone want to put on their boots and join the two step. Kevin Fowler started out in the pleasant town of Amarillo and has been bringing his brand of country to fans all over Texas and beyond. Story by: Ernesto Rodriguez

Photos by Hector Espinosa 26

It is every man’s dream to leave behind a legacy. Not all of us are able to do that, but, Alfred Perez is already in the process. He will be one of those men. From ‘Office Whatever’ to ‘Alpha Corner’ he has been actively creating comic strips for several years. In fact you have probably seen his work around San Antonio in the past few years (IBC, some of the bumble bee ads). He is a happy go lucky artist with a wealth of ideas and a passion for his craft. Each piece of work he does shows a hint of his skill as a word smith. Currently, he is a student at IADT San Antonio. I have had the opportunity to study with and interview Alfred Perez. He had the following to say. What inspired you to become an artist? “I read comic books as a kid and was inspired by them. I remember seeing a Van Gogh painting at the San Antonio Museum of Art and being blown away. All artists seem to go through a phase where they think they can be as good as Salvador Dali. I tried that and found out that I could communicate through comics.” You have a clear talent for making comics, what was your first comic and where did you get the idea? “ My first comic was inspired by a picture of a clay dinosaur on a box and an old superman comic. It was called Superstegy. Superstegy would go around saving people from evil and saving the world. I have always liked dinosaurs.“ How do your personal experiences relate to your creative process? “Everything I do comes from what I know. A lot of my material came from bad relationships, which I made fun of. People really seemed to relate to that material.” In your comic series ‘Office Whatever’ the main characters seem to have a specific dynamic. Is there a funny anecdote behind interesting relationship? “The main characters didn’t even have a name until the sixth or seventh comic. Jack and Diane is based on an old manager and the head of the marketing department at my old job. They would always have a sharp banter. The jokes just kept on coming.” What advice would you give to aspiring artist, specifically those interested in comics? “Mostly, don’t give up. There will always be people mocking you. Don’t expect to become a Charles Shultz overnight and do it because you love it.” What kind of work have you done so far? Do you have any favorite titles? “There will always be a special place in my heart for ‘Alpha Corner’. I would always get these random ideas and I would have to put them down. I would feel better after that. After seeing the work of Masiyco I got the idea to do a SNL for comics. When it comes to ‘Office Whatever,’ I love the dynamic between Jack and Diane. Women seem to have a power that guys will never have. ‘Love in the Dark’ was inspired by an artist in the sixties. It is literally just a black background with a different innuendo every time.”

The Characters of Jack and Diane

What do you think is the more productive optimism or pessimism? “I operate in pessimism. This one time I had an accident with my tire and while I was fixing it my car fell of the jack and into the ditch. I called my dad and he showed up with a jack. I told him’ I didn’t think one jack would be enough ‘. He replied ‘All you have to do is be optimistic.’ I replied ‘I can’t be optimistic, you never let me.’“ You seem to have a very unique and fun sense of humor. How did that come about? “I get my sense of humor from my dad. He had an odd personality. Also, my parents had a funny way of expressing love. I was a sensitive kid so it was awkward sometimes. The rest of my family has a great sense of humor too. They each have their own quirk.” Do you have any future plans for your comic series? Have you ever thought about how they would look on a TV show? “Yes, I do have plans for my comics. I see Jack and Diane done with animation, from ‘Office Whatever’. One of my ideas is B-52, a comic about a robot, would also be great done with animation.” If someone wanted to read more of your work where can they go to find it? “I have work on my Deviant Art.com page under the screen name Judge Fred. You can find ‘Office Whatever’ on Smackgeeves.com under my name or the Toonist.” I hope you enjoyed the interview. I encourage you to look him up because he really does have great art work. It doesn’t matter what kind of sense of humor you have you will enjoy what he brings to the comic strip. 28

Road Blazers You own the road Without even trying Confidence oozing From every pore The road behind you Watches with envy The engine roars For all to hear For all to see How easily you steer Despite the obstacles In your way. Wheels blazing Across a sun scorched road Life on a bike Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all you know Keep on riding down the road Enjoy the looks of passers by Blaze the road to your hearts content.

Angel Vega

VegaStudios@live.com 30

“ A woman’s dress should be a alike a barbed-wire fence: serving it’s purpose without obstructing the view.” Sophia Loren

Russel Stevenson A Man for All Mediums

Russel Stevenson is a modern artist with a wide range of skills and talents. When I first started at IADT San Antonio I had the privilege of taking a class with Mr. Stevenson. Almost a year later I have the chance to interview Russel Stevenson and here is what he had to say: DF: How did you get started In the Art World? “I was born and started scribbling with Crayola crayons. I developed drawing out of youth.” DF: I understand you have a background in Sculpture. What inspired you to try that route? “I had never worked that extensively with my hands in 3-D forms, it was something that I had not done before. It’s the physicality of the material, rather than the illusion the attracted me.” DF: As a teacher, how do you feel you have improved the lives of your students? “I try to lead by example. I try to be an inspiration to help my students follow their dreams.” DF: As an artist how do you view the world? “The world was here before I was and it will be here after I am dead. It’s my imagination’s playground. I am the creative element in the world, instead of the world being the creative element.” DF: Who would you say is the most influential person in your life? “My daughter is the most inspirational person.” DF: Over the years what would you say are your greatest achievements? “I would have to say getting married, having my daughter and working in a field where I can do what I love.” DF: What in your favorite quote? “Drawing is the honesty of art. There is not cheating or the potential to cheat; It is either good or bad.” Salvador Dali DF: Do you have any art shows or exhibits coming up where people can see your work in person? “Currently I have work up with Anarte Gallery in San Antonio, Laura Rathe Fine Art in Houston and Process Art House in Amarillo. My next solo exhibition is with Anarte Gallery in February, and then a Drawing Show there in March for San Antonio’s Contemporary Art Month.” DF: If we want to see more where can we find you? “My website is www.russellstephensonstudio.com. More current work can be seen on my Facebook studio page of the same name.” By: Ernesto Rodriguez

Word Of Mouth is Back

How do you juggle family, life, and your artistic endeavors?

T E L L E V E R Y O N E :::T E L L E V E R Y O N E T E L L E V E R Y O N E :::T E L L E V E R Y O N E T E L L E V E R Y O N E

Lin: By the grace of my Lord Jesus! Seriously. Chris: Our personal endeavors and what we do through word of mouth don’t always coincide. Then only way we can do anything is with the support of each other and our family. To be honest with you, we did have some great support from our previous church when it came to resources. That is probably one of the biggest external helps we have had so far. The bands have also helped us a lot even when it was not their show.

In 2009 a fantastic new organization came into being. Its name was Word of Mouth. It was about the artists and musicians. It is an expansive community meant to build up the San Antonio art and music scene. Word of Mouth was started by Christopher Edmiston and Linda Edmiston. After a brief hiatus, the well tuned, yet highly innovative machine known as Word of Mouth is back with it’s sister group Tell Everyone. A couple of years back San Antonio was blessed with the Word of Mouth Fest. It was a sight to behold. I recently had the opportunity to talk to Chris and Lin Edmiston about Word of Mouth, Tell Everyone. and all of the good things to come over the next few months.

“Right now we are planning an Ice Cream social, an Elliot Smith Tribute in August.” Could you name some bands you have worked with at your events? Chris: The ones we have worked with the most are Bloody Knives (Formerly Joy Bus) and Vanity Press (formerly Espera), Brandon Cunningham, Honey Thief, The Calm Blue Sea, Dance of Days, Chad Overman and The Tradesman, and several others. We have worked with over 50 artists so far. Lin: I second that emotion.:) When you start a new project what is your creative process? Lin: I am an innovator by God’s design. I am not really concerned about the process because I know God is in charge of the end result. It’s actually very similar to choreography. I have this beautiful image as I hear a song and I relay what I see to the dancer, but it’s the dancer’s interpretation. It is shared with the audience and becomes this beautiful moving picture that impacts a multitude of people. It is truly amazing: The language of the soul. My favorite part is seeing how God brings all these precious people together.

Photo by Le Lowry

How would you describe Word of Mouth and Tell Everyone? What inspired you to start the Tell Everyone Artist Group?

Chris: My creative process is to find the path that is going to lead to the best result. I also use my wife’s skill sets to guide me along the way.

Lin: Word of Mouth opened up the door to Tell Everyone! Word of Mouth as colloquial as it is, in my mind, had a purpose: To inspire (if nothing else) people to really choose their words wisely (Prov. 18:21). Words have creative power.

What are your future plans? Chris: Right now we are planning an Ice Cream social, an Elliot Smith Tribute in August and getting back into monthly shows. We are also planning Holy Day interviews in the winter.

Chris: The ideas behind Word of Mouth and Tell Everyone are very similar. It’s about supporting the artist and the community. It’s about helping the artist understand the greater reason for their inspiration. We do that in several practical ways. The most easily accessible way is through performances using non-traditional venues to give an artist an uninterrupted platform to share the truth of their art. The second would be the Tell Everyone Artist Fund, which helps an artist in their time or need.

Lin: Yes, please. Where might someone who wants more information on Tell Everyone Artist Group go to find it? Chris: There is a face book page and MySpace page for the Tell Everyone Artist Group. They can also email us at telleveryoneartistgroup@gmail.com.

What is the most interesting experience that you have had since you started Word of Mouth? Chris: It was the two-day festival. I think we had like 35 bands and we had limited help. It was mostly just Lin and I. None of the bands were late and we had a really good turnout considering that it was a grass roots event. It was a really good result from planning to fruition. Lin: Word of Mouth completely transformed into a now thing: Tell Everyone. I think that was its purpose to become something bigger than it was. I think now we know the answer is to the question ‘ What are we telling everyone?’ The Rock. What is it like working together? Chris: The coolest past about working together is that our skills are opposites, so when we fit into our roles it’s perfect. The struggle comes when we try to force the issue in either direction. When we step well outside of our gifting, sometimes the results are unfavorable.

Lin: Chris is the Information guy. Do you have any final thoughts you would like to share with the viewers? Chris: Everything we do is very fluid. We respect that things change and life happens. Our goal is just to be there for people for when things happen and help them through it. A lot of our original ideas were very rigid but we learned over time that our plans will change. We need to be willing to change with them and be flexible when things happen. Lin: I’m just so thankful to have seen the fruit of an idea. All the glory goes to God who knows the many obstacles that, even now, continue to try to get in the way. I’m excited to see what the future holds and to meet more artists not just here in my hometown of San Antonio, but wherever God leads us.

Lin: It is divinely orchestrated! We are polar opposites holding each other’s image. There are obstacles because we work together as artists as well as a married couple. But when it is balanced, it is brilliant. Could you tell us a little more about the Tell Everyone Artist Fund? Lin: When the idea for Word of Mouth Fest came, Chris said we should do shows leading up to the festival. As time went by I knew we wanted to make this truly about our fellow musicians and artists. By God’s divine timing, we found out that a local band, The Heroine, had an accident with their trailer. Their equipment was ruined. Chris and I felt helpless in our means to help. It was that moment that inspired us to start the Tell Everyone Artist Fund. We are pleased to share that we have had the privilege of helping out several beloved friends.

L.B.

Model: Karina Alexandra Photography: py25 Studio

A Schizophrenic Love Story Premier At The Draft House

The witty, dark yet beautiful romance that unfolds in the new film “A Schizophrenic Love Story” takes its audience on a journey into the mind of Conner (Andrew Pozza) as he falls in love with his new neighbor Lily (Jamie Teer). Conner is schizophrenic and agoraphobic and consults his delusions that are a strange trio of a vampire, the Virgin Mary, and Albert Einstein for advice. Oscar Nominee Bruce Davison adds his star-power to the cast as Conner’s psychiatrist Dr. Bob. The movie was shot in San Antonio, Texas where the cast and crew had to endure torturous summer heat. Despite that obstacle, they were able to create a not-so-cookie-cutter love story that I found strangely refreshing. Directors Dylan Thomas Ellis and Glenn Levy along with Aristar Entertainment made this film possible. Derek Lee Nixon, an executive at Aristar Entertainment and Asher the vampire, told me of an upcoming film called “Wolf”, produced by Aristar, which is set to show at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin, Texas this spring. It is no surprise that these up and coming filmmakers are going on to premier at one of the nation’s top film festivals, and from the looks of it, they won’t stop there. Story and Photos by: Mika Locklear

DF is looking for staff and contributors. Get noticed and be heard. Be â&#x20AC;&#x153;Down Forâ&#x20AC;? the arts! If you would like to help or get your work published contact us at: dfpublications@gmail.com or call/ text/leave a message at 210-848-9469 ask for our Managing Editor Ernesto Rodriguez.

Photo by Larry Castilleja 42

San Antonio

Where Films are Made

San Antonio is a center for culture. We have art, music theatre and a plethora of historic monuments. As a city we are even doing well financially in uncertain times. There is one area we as a city can make more of an impression: Film. In the early part of 2012 a man by the name of Ignacio Arreola Vidal and several others put together a group dedicated to making their mark as film makers in San Antonio. This group became Paragon Prime Productions. Ignacio, also known as ‘El Memo’, studied at University of the Incarnate Word, here in San Antonio. His interest in film making is keen and he has the drive to make the dream of being a premiere film maker a reality. Paragon Prime Productions is the evolution of Memo Productions. Several earlier productions include Cry of the Dead, La Carta, A Boy Named Sue and Hot Mess. I sat down for an Interview with the visionary who is looking to put San Antonio on the Map. What was the inspiration for you to become a Film Maker? “I was inspired by a lot of things. It was mostly because I loved movies. The movie that really inspired me was Stand By Me. The story was great and I thought, ‘I want to tell stories like that.’ Also, I wanted to be a film maker because when you watch a movie it’s like you are inside the film maker’s head.” How old were you when you made your first short film? “I did my first actual short film when I was twenty-seven. It was an animation called Purple Fire.” What kind of movies do you like to watch? “I like all kinds of movies, really, but I guess if I had to pick one genre it would be horror movies. I like movies that tell a good story.” Do you have a favorite Director/producer? “I have several favorites but if I had to choose one it would be Quentin Tarantino. I just love how he is edgy, always tries something new, and I like the way he uses gore in an unrealistic way.” Where are you most comfortable on the film set? “Everywhere is where I feel comfortable. As a director I have to be moving around a lot. I enjoy coaching actors the most because you that’s when you really get to see the characters become three dimensional.”

Earlier this year the short film Chronicles of the Undead: The house wife was produced. Can you tell me about what inspired the idea and what I was about? “Every filmmaker is looking for original ideas. I had just finished Cry of the Dead when it occurred to me to do a series of horror shorts. I wanted to do a zombie movie but my friend Jennifer Ytuarte, who is a great photographer, suggested that we do something different. That’s how Chronicles of the Undead: the Housewife came into being. There are still more in the series. In fact the series called for three unrelated movies all dealing with the undead.” If someone were to ask you what it takes to be successful in film, what would you reply? “That’s a funny question. I wouldn’t call myself successful. What I can say, is it will be a lot of work and you will face limitations. It is usually money limitations. Keep on trying and work hard. Of course it helps to know the right people.”

“ Art is a sense of magic” Stan Brakhage

What do you see Paragon Prime Productions doing over the next few years? “That’s a funny question because a few months back I was talking to the Paragon Prime people about this, I like to call them my minions, everyone is great though. Our goal is to become the leading film company in San Antonio over the next year. In ten year we hope to be competing with the big production companies.” Where can we find out more about Paragon Prime Productions? “Well, we are working on our website as we speak. You can find us on face book just look up Paragon Prime Productions and you will be able to find us. I would like to thank Down For Magazine for taking the time to interview me.” The world of film is a difficult place to survive in, but Paragon Prime Productions is the company to watch for in the future. They’re going to make it to the top and DF is going to be there to see it.

Over the years you have probably had some interesting adventures. Do you have any funny stories to tell? “This is not so much a funny story as it is a horror story. At least I would not like to see this happen again. I was chosen to be a casting director for a student film. This actress from Spain, Catrina Serato auditioned and I brought her in. She flew in all the way from Spain to be in a student independent film. Before the project was finished the producer bailed out and I was the contact with the actors so I had to explain what happened. I felt really bad for the actress because she flew all that way for nothing. She wasn’t too happy about what happened but we kept in touch. This was about six years ago.”

Writing for Life by Nate J. Renfro Sometimes I write because I feel inspired, perhaps by a movie, a memory, or the string of expletives the driver in the next lane over tossed my way. Sometimes I write because it is the only way to get my thoughts in logical order. I have trouble arranging concepts without a pen and paper. Sometimes I write for no apparent reason at all. It’s just an impulse—my way of coping. And then there are days like today. I write to live. Mornings when I can’t sleep, but don’t want to get out of bed. When I am not sure if the sun will make it over the horizon— fearful of the dark. But the sun does make it up. I make it up. And for those precious few moments, when the first and softest rays bend over the horizon and kiss the earth good morning, I find hope. Yet soon I grow frantic and afraid of the Texas heat, the drought, the wildfires to the north that have swallowed 1400+ homes in Bastrop County, and I wish only again for the dark. On these mornings, writing is more than a hobby or an inspiration. Writing is breathing. Because eventually we all have days when life is set ablaze, and smoke fills our lungs. We become disoriented and begin suffocating. We need oxygen. In grade school I learned something about how to STOP! DROP! And ROLL! So I do stop. I do drop. I roll… … and roll… … and roll … I never learned when to stop rolling, or what to do when I got up. On these days, I am not sure if writing is part of the getting up, or part of the rolling…

Photo by shutterhacks

Photo by Pavel Sigarteu 48

Jordan A San Antonio Model DF: How old are you and where are you from? I am 21. I was born on July 18th, 1990. I was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. I moved to San Antonio 1 year ago in August. DF: What are your interests and goals? I love to paint, hunt, and play with my puppy Stella. My future goal is to have my own hunting brand for women. DF: What are your aspirations as a model and in your career? I’m just taking this modeling thing one day at a time. I was asked to start modeling very randomly while working as a waitress at Kona Grill. I didn’t expect much from it or even to like it. Now that I am modeling, I am having a blast and it really helps boost my confidence. DF: Do you have a favorite designer? When I shop for jeans I like Citizens of Humanity. I find my dresses and tops anywhere from Free People to Trina Turk. I find my handbags at Michael Kors and Big Budha. I get my shoes from Louboutin, Gianni Bini, and Mystiq. DF: Where do you go to school and what’s your major? I am currently attending the International Academy of Design and Technology here in San Antonio and I’m working on my Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design. DF: Do you have a favorite movie or book? My favorite book is Great expectations by Charles Dickens. My favorite movie is Horrible Bosses. DF: Who’s your role model? My role model has and will always be my older brother. I have never looked up to anyone else. He is very intelligent, respectful to everyone, knows how to treat a lady and more importantly he believes in me. DF: For the guys that want to know, what do find attractive in a man? I look for a man who is athletic, charming, confident, witty and knowledgeable. DF: If you could be any fictional character who would you be? I would be princess Jasmine. We are both adventurous and rebellious. Basic profile information: Height: 5’7, Eyes: Brown, Hair: Brown, Petite. For more information on how to book Jordan, please email us at dfpublications@gmail.com 52

Cirque Du Soleil’s Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour San Antonio

The anticipation of this event alone is enough to have one at the edge of their seat even before the show begins. All the fans, young and old (appropriately decked out in sequins, red leather jackets, and one sparkling glove) poured into their seats. The show focused on Michael’s life, his ideas, and his giving spirit. Quotes of his were intermixed with the melodies of every one of Michael’s classics that allowed the audience to feel his presence. “Childhood”, one of the first songs to be featured, brought the show down to a sentimental level. However, classics such as “Thriller” and “Smooth Criminal” brought the audience to their feet and provided the excitement every fan would look for in any showcase of MJ’s musical talent. The acrobatics, dancing, and athletic ability that went along with each song enhanced the show’s wow-factor and did not fail to impress. Overall, the dazzling special effects, the performers, and of course, the music, provided a praiseworthy tribute the legacy MJ left behind. I would say this show was nothing short of mind-blowing. By: Mika Locklear

Photos by OSA images Courtesy of Laura Silverman Costumes by Zaldy Goco

73 Bridges by Raymundo Ivan Torres

Manuel Leal75Jr

Thanks for joining us! See you soon!