THE CREATIVE
the Art issue FINDING PERSPECTIVE
side
OF AUSTIN
MARK SWEENEY, D.D.S.
“change your smile, change your life.”
Favorite quote: “Better well done than well said.” — Benjamin Franklin Loves Austin’s cool vibe & laid-back atmosphere. Mexican martinis and breakfast tacos! Enjoys two-stepping at the Broken Spoke! Hanging at III Forks & Trulucks downtown. Cycling on the Hike & Bike trail. Hitting tennis balls anywhere. 2020, 2021 FIRST PLACE WINNER BEST DENTIST 2020 FIRST PLACE WINNER BEST COSMETIC DENTIST Cosmetic Dentistry | General Dentistry | Sedation Dentistry | Pain-Free Laser Dentistry Stringent Infection Control Protocols | Smile Makeovers | Porcelain Veneers Teeth Whitening | Dental Implants | Complimentary Hand or Foot Massage
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October/November
CONTENTS
10 12
Publisher’s Note
Local
Off-stage Masterpieces
Travel back in time to East Austin’s iconic walking art tour.
15
Art+Entertainment Community Connections
A pair of artists are encouraging the city to get creative, together.
31 Go+Do
Work and Play
How a large art collective works together towards a singular vision
37
Home+Away
A Weekend in Durango
Find higher ground in this charming and adventurous Colorado town.
43
Sip+Taste
De Nada: Thank us Later!
This neighborhood cantina offers up moments of bliss with a smile.
Read more at eastsideatx.com
22
Finding Perspective Follow the journey of four local artists as they pursue their callings, explore their mediums, and ultimately find themselves through connection and creation.
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EAST THE RESILIENT
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Austin, Texas 78702 eastsideatx.com
Publisher Nillo Studios, LLC
Social Media Joanna Fuller
Creative Director Will Bowling
Contributing Photographers Shelby Bella, Rachel Benevides, Will Bowling, Tony Moreno, Leonid Furmansky
Publishing Editor Ashley Bowling Photo Editor Eric Morales Business Development Will Bowling Stephanie Hawley
Contributing Writers Sam Lauron, Jessi Devenyns, Libby Allen, Alison Bryce, Justin & Kayla Butts Distribution Will Bowling
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Submissions info@eastsideatx.com
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eastside | publisher's note
Finding Art
E
ach year, the Art Issue is always a fun one to conceptualize and bring to fruition. Time and time again, I am always blown away by how beautifully it comes together. We are always inspired by the artists in their creative fields, as we have a chance to see everything they are doing as they create. This issue alone, and the talent within it, inspire us and our creative thought process from big picture magazine concepts to photoshoot direction to individual story design throughout the rest of the year.
This particular issue, published every year at this time, was first conceptualized and inspired by East Austin’s creative talent. Many of the artist we highlight are just doing their thing, trying to build their business. It’s pretty amazing to think about when you stop and ponder: no capital campaigns, no technical support team, no budget for marketing or PR companies. Just one person trying to make it off their raw talent — oftentimes working several jobs to make ends meet. As creatives ourselves, who started this publication with little to nothing and a few-‘man’ crew, our team values that effort and sees that hard work! I truly believe that once a person sees art for what it is rather than just something pretty to hang on their wall or place on their coffee table, it will inspire them to create and spark thoughts and ideas that might have never been dreamt otherwise. Art is powerful like that! So in this issue, we have found four amazing artists who have different styles and methods of creating something new, all the while affecting others as they go. We hope this issue, and all the stories within it, inspire you to be creative, to think outside the box, to invest in art, and to find new inspiration to love what you do. Side note: A BIG thanks goes to our lead photographer, Eric Morales! We leaned on him this August to take on the creative direction of the photos for this feature and more. Eric’s attention to detail and ability to work with each artist produced stunning photos and made for some captivating stories.
Enjoy the read! Will Bowling
10 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
find more at eastsideatx.com
On the Cover CATIE LEWIS, OIL PAINTER + MURALIST catielewis.com @catiegl.art
We were extremely lucky to get the perfect light and have such a nice back drop of Catie’s paintings to fill the background with color. Photo by Eric Morales, captured in Catie Lewis’s art studio.
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eastside | local
Off-Stage Masterpieces
East Austin Studio Tour’s Humble Beginnings WORDS BY
Jessi Devenyns
PHOTOS Courtesy
mutually beneficial connection that continued to grow the artistic community of East Austin.
of Big Medium
Before East Austin Studio Tour was a two-weekend experience welcoming tens of thousands of visitors, it was a sweat-soaked stroll down a shady street on one fall afternoon. Twenty-eight participants comprised the roster of artists, between whose studios 500 visitors meandered. The year was 2003.
T
he early aughts of the millennium saw a burgeoning community of artists begin to occupy homes east of Interstate 35, and it was as a part of that influx that Shea Little, Jana Swec, and Joseph Phillips found themselves creating on the Eastside – but it was largely a solitary pursuit devoid of organized events or a central hub at which to access art. To bring collaboration to the nascent creative hotbed, the trio set their sights on building a walkable tour where local artists opened their doors and welcomed curious passersby into their homes to exhibit their creations. This idea turned out to be the linchpin that was needed to put art on the map for Austin.
Big and small, creators convened once a year to display sculpture, painting, leather goods, pottery, and abstract expression. Passionate patrons would seek out particular destinations where they knew the artist and bring a beer along to wile away the afternoon in deep discussions regarding the inspiration behind a particular piece. Often the conversation would wind up in a transaction. But just as often, it would wind up in a 12 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
Three years after its inception, art aficionados were making pit stops at the then-famous Fisterra Studios. Flatbed Press similarly drew crowds of hundreds as the number of pilgrims to the Eastside ballooned to the thousands and the number of studio stops reached 86. Artists were making names for themselves that were recognized at cocktail parties across the river and west of the highway. This trajectory continued to propel the careers of many artists who call Austin home. Jennifer Chenoweth, today’s ICOSA Collective, Jennifer Balkan, and Mychal Mitchell gained notoriety over the years becoming destinations on the tour. But still the event remained an open invitation to inquisitive visitors seeking intimate moments with artists. Some may miss the studio tour’s humble origins, but those who are interested in understanding the minds behind the masterpieces will still find it. They are hidden in lofty solo studios, in backyard cabanas, and alongside high-rise apartments. It just takes a splatter of inspiration to step away from the crowd and walk on another path. So, veer off the well-worn paths of the East Austin Studio Tour and turn the corner. The sights hidden just on the other side of a neighbor’s fence may incite a new idea, a blossoming friendship, or simply result in a new piece of local art for the living room wall.
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Art+ entertainment
October
+Nov 2021
16 local art
ONE GALLERIST DISPLAYS THE UNSEEN SIDES OF AUSTIN’S ARTISTS.
18 entertainment
TWO MURALISTS ENCOURAGE THE CITY TO COME TOGETHER IN COMMUNAL CREATION.
eastside | art
Finding Beauty in the Full Oeuvre
Lydia Street Gallery Offers a New Perspective. WORDS BY
Abby L Johnson Morales
PHOTO BY Eric
In a city full of emerging artists and new voices yearning to be heard, sometimes it becomes easy to overlook the blossoming, ever-evolving work of long-established artists. Deanna Miesch, owner and gallerist of Lydia Street Gallery, seeks to rectify that. 16 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
W
hen starting a new endeavor, most don’t know where the road will lead at the onset. Yet, Deanna Miesch is one of the lucky few to receive a sign that her decision to open up an art gallery was the right move when she unwittingly cracked open a fortune cookie. Though the plans to open Lydia Street Gallery were already in motion, her fortune simply stated ‘Now is a really good time to start an art gallery,’ fortifying her resolve. With the wisdom of a timely little scrap of paper to back her up, she forged ahead with her mission to create a new kind of art gallery: one that made space for underrepresented voices in the Austin art scene. Thus, at the start of 2021, the distinctive gallery was born in East Austin. Although the city of Austin is renowned for its lively art scene, Deanna shrewdly recognized that there was a “dearth of spaces for mid- and late-career artists.” Upon deciding to convert part of her space into a gallery, Deanna wanted to use it as a blank canvas for such artists. Despite its modest footprint, the gallery offers plenty of wall space and opportunities for creative installations, of which the showing artists have full rein to manipulate the space as they wish. As a gallerist, Deanna’s philosophy is not to micro-manage her selected artists but offer them an opportunity to curate their own exhibit.
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“Allie will be my
Did you know?
Deanna hosts each of the Lydia Street Gallery exhibiting artists through in-depth interviews, providing an inside look into their exhibits. Full video recordings of these conversations can be found on the Lydia Street Gallery YouTube channel.
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Perhaps the most rewarding and unique aspect of featuring the work of those who are well-seasoned in their craft is the innate ‘beauty of the full oeuvre.’ Walking through an exhibit at Lydia Street Gallery, one should not expect to see just one series. Viewers will be delighted to see the many mediums and themes explored in a lifetime of creation. This unique lens of viewing allows art enthusiasts a behind-the-scenes peek into the artist’s mind, a small glimpse into an otherwise inaccessible inner world. Prior to opening the gallery, Deanna has been in the minimalistic, unassuming space on Lydia Street for 10 years as an Art Therapist. In an eclectically furnished side room filled with her own works and those admired from past shows sits her office, where she still practices as a therapist today. Though that career path has been extremely gratifying, the space was yearning for more. In one small gallery on Lydia Street, Deanna finds the notion that artists must go to NYC or LA to make it “ridiculous,” as she frankly, yet light-heartedly puts it. After viewing the gallery for themselves, visitors are sure to agree with the sentiment. Her home-base is located firmly in the heart of the East End IBIZ District, aptly named after the street on which her gallery is situated.
Contact:
LydiaStreetGallery@gmail.com lydiastreetgallery.com @lydiastreetgallery
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eastside | entertainment
Community Connections More than a Mural
What happens when art becomes a catalyst for community involvement? WORDS BY
Libby Allen & Abby L. Johnson Morales & Tony Moreno
PHOTOS BY Eric
M
urals do more than simply add color to a cityscape. They give voice to a community, empower residents, and bring people together. That spirit of connection fuels the mission of The Mosaic Workshop, an ongoing project spearheaded by artists J Muzacz and Carmen Rangel. The Mosaic Workshop is housed out of Something Cool Studios, an artist incubator, studio, and art classroom rolled into one. Located in a bungalow-style house off East Cesar Chavez Street, the unassuming white building features a neon sign spelling out Something Cool, just hinting at what lies in store. It’s not until visitors cross the threshold of the studio that it becomes apparent that the studio is a free-flowing hub of creativity. The walls are covered in the work of local artists, some of whom have offices at the studio alongside J and Carmen. It’s an open space set up for creation and connection. “There’s always something going on or someone is stopping by; someone’s always having a beer and collaborating on something,” J says of the studio. As the co-founders and lead artists of The Mosaic Workshop, Carmen and J both facilitate and represent this communal spirit by inviting the public to learn about and participate in mosaic art. The project has two tenets to teach people to make their own mosaic projects and to involve the community in public art. Though J has been creating in various mediums for the last 15 years, he began to fall in love with mosaics when he was teaching art in Dripping Springs in 2016. He liked how this type of application lent itself to bring creative minds together to fabricate large pieces of art. “We got these kids together, and they were given these little squares and panels to make a giant mural together,” J re-
18 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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Did You Know? The Mosaic Workshop has everything you need to get creative from the comfort of home! Order a Stay-At-Home Mosaic kit online at themosaicworkshop. org and pick up materials every Friday from 12-7pm.
Coming Soon! Keep your eyes peeled for J’s new book about Austin graffiti, murals, and street art and the history and pioneers of these urban art forms.
calls. “People really loved [it], and I figured out that I hit on something. And I’ve basically been working in mosaic ever since.” “So many people from different creative backgrounds come to work on these murals. It seems like everyone is drawn to the material,” Carmen grins. Mosaics are symbolic of so many contradictions. They are at once organized and chaotic; one singular piece on its own means nothing, but together they speak as a work of art. There are so many different ways to approach it. I have my own process to lay out a mural in Photoshop and then figure out the scale. With murals, there’s a
balance of structure and preconceived notion mixed with chance,” J elaborates. It’s the most apt medium to bring together community members from all different generations and walks of life. The mosaic mural medium is a reflection itself of the many people who collaborate to install these large-scale works. The Mosaic Workshop projects, which can be seen on permanent display at 2400 East Cesar Chavez, are made by and for the people of Austin. These community-generated works are designed and facilitated by Carmen and J, who guide volunteers in the installation process. The duo also has workshops at Some-
thing Cool so anyone in the community can get involved. “We have kids do these workshops, and older people come and participate, too. We started to see this intergenerational diversity involved in the projects,” J says. When local volunteers participate in creating these public murals, everyone has ownership of the piece. The art takes on another meaning, one that celebrates a diverse and vibrant group of people coming together to create one beautiful community.
Contact:
themosaicworkshop.org @atxmosaicworkshop somethingcoolstudios.com @somethingcoolstudios
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eastside | events
12 THINGS WE LOVE IN
OCTOBER
&NOVEMBER
Pumpkin Nights
Now-October 31, 6-11 pm
Wheatsville Food Co-Op Tasting Fair October 9, 12-4 pm
Inspirational Women’s Event October 28, 6:30-9:30 pm
Support local women-owned and -operated businesses and join EASTside Magazine for an evening of fun and connection at Springdale Station! Guests will enjoy live music, complimentary craft cocktails from Still Austin, Dulche Vida, and others, and snack on tasty bites from local restaurants such as Intero, De Nada, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to grab your crew for midweek fun and stress-free networking, with the chance to connect with local entrepreneurs and change makers. The indoor/outdoor space is expansive, but tickets are limited, so reserve your spot: $18 for 21+.
In celebration of Fair Trade month, Wheatsville Food Co-Op is partnering up with Fairtrade America and local artist J Muzacz to present a mural featuring a trio of Fairtrade-certified cocoa farmers and themed around a key area of impact for Fairtrade: fighting poverty. The mural will officially be unveiled at Wheatsville Co-op on Saturday, October 9. During the Tasting Fair, shoppers will be able to sample a variety of Fairtrade certified goods, participate in giveaways, and connect with the artist. This event is free and open to the public.
wheatsville.com | 3101 Guadalupe St.
979 Springdale Rd., Ste. 160 | eastsideatx.com/womensevent2021
Wonder of the World October 8-24, times vary
Terra Firmament
Now-Oct. 23, Fri.-Sat., 12-6 pm See an array of emotionally charged paintings by artists Matt Rebholz and Jana Swec at ICOSA Collective. Both artists channel their personal histories into landscapes steeped in narrative and individual mythology. Detached from human chronologies, a sense of geologic or sidereal time pervades these environments as they ruminate on intersections of earth, water, and the firmament. icosacollective.com
| 916 Springdale Rd. Bldg. 2, #102 20 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
Help the City Theatre and Beyond August Products kick off the season with David Lindsay-Abaire’s Austin premiere comedy of Wonder of the World. The show shares one woman’s journey which plunges her deep into the unknown. Lindsay-Abaire is a Pulitzer Prize winning playwright, screenwriter, lyricist, and librettist. General seating is $15, while reserved seats are $20-25. Group and student discounts are available.
citytheatreaustin.org | 901 Trinity St.
The Cathedral’s 2nd Anniversary October 16, 7-11pm
Celebrate The Cathedral’s 2nd anniversary Día de los Muertos style. Enjoy the sights of a special, colorful art exhibit inspired by Día de los Muertos created by women artists of atxGALS (including a special installation by The Paper Committee). Attendees can listen to live music, enjoy a curated open bar with festive cocktails, snack on small bites, and more as they celebrate local art! Tickets are $65 per person. thecathedralatx.com | 2403 E 16th St.
Explore pumpkins like you never have before during Pumpkin Nights at Pioneer Farms. With a 40-foot dragon, ghostly pirate ship, undersea wonderland, and fantastical lands built using over 5,000 handcarved real and synthetic pumpkins, this night will be anything but frightful. Tickets, available every night but Thursdays, are $14 for kids and $18 for 13+. 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr. |
pumpkinnights.com/austin
Workout at Waterloo October 18, 6:30 pm
Enjoy a yoga and sound class on the Love, Tito’s Lawn at Moody Amphitheater during a free series of community fitness classes from Waterloo Greenway and Castle Hill Fitness. Each week through November 3, the community is invited to participate in a variety of classes. Yoga and Sound will be held Mondays at 6:30 pm while Workout Wednesdays is at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday Moves at 10 am. People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to participate.
waterloogreenway.org/events | 1401 Trinity St.
Propping up Heaven Happy Hour
October 22, 5:30-7:30 pm
Celebrate Larry Goode’s gallery at Link & Pin Gallery during a happy hour visitation. In the exhibit, Goode uses paintings and photographs to create a meditative space through which the viewer is invited to contemplate awakening—or its WORDS BY Alison
find more at eastsideatx.com
Bryce
metaphor, Heaven. The paintings are paired with a zen dialogue, giving each work a unique meaning that varies from person to person. Goode’s work will remain open to the public until November 7.
Recognizing Excellence
2021
linkpinart.com | 2235 E 6th St. #102 regional and international Celtic artists to workshops to discover new abilities. This year’s festivities will be extra special as the 2021 Scottish Highland Games Masters World Championships will take place both days. austincelticfestival.com |
10621 Pioneer Farms Dr.
Everything is Everything Exhibit
Taste America November 9, 6:30 pm
October 30, 7-9 pm
Rachel Wolfson Smith will be present at Ivester Contemporary for the unveiling of her newest series of immersive pencil drawings: “Everything is Everything.” Her detailed works on paper feature delicate representations of flowing grasses and pops of subtle color. This opening event marks the beginning of her solo exhibition, which will be on view through December 4. This event is free to attend.
916 Springdale Rd. Bldg. 2 #107 | ivestercontemporary.com
Austin Celtic Festival
Join Chefs Fermín Núñez of Suerte and LeAnn Mueller of la Barbecue as they prepare a multi-course dinner and beverage pairings in an intimate gathering during Taste America. Taste America brings together chefs and diners to support local restaurants rebuilding a more sustainable and equitable industry. 65% of all tickets sold will go directly to Suerte, with 35% of proceeds supporting the James Beard Foundation’s national programming, including Open for Good campaign. Tickets are $300 a pair. james-
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November 6 & 7, Saturday 12-7 pm & Sunday 12-6 pm
Join the fun of Celtic traditions at the Austin Celtic Festival. This twoday family-friendly event will have everything from the highest quality
Austin Restaurant Weeks Now-October 10, times vary
Austin Restaurant Weeks is back! Support local restaurants and Central Texas Food Bank by dining with participating restaurants now through Sunday, October 10. With over 50 participating establishments across the city, patrons will have plenty of dining choices as they put their dollars toward ending hunger in Austin. Participating Eastside locations include Buenos Aires Cafe, Intero, Julie Myrtille Bakery, and more! Visit their website for a complete list of participating restaurants.
GET TICKETS & DETAILS AT
EASTSIDEATX.COM/WOMENSEVENT2021
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G N I D N I F
E V I T C PE
S R E P
“I PERSONALLY WANT TO FEEL EMPOWERED BY MY ART. IT’S REALLY JUST FOR ME.”
22 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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WORDS BY
Sam Lauron PHOTOS BY Eric Morales
AS A SPECTATOR, ART ALLOWS US TO VIEW AN ARRAY OF MEDIUMS THROUGH THE LENS OF THE ARTIST. BUT FOR THE ARTIST THEMSELVES, IT ALSO HAS A WAY OF SHOWING THEM A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE. FOR THESE FOUR ARTISTS, ART HELPED THEM FIND AND UNDERSTAND A PIECE OF THEMSELVES A LITTLE BETTER. WHETHER TO FIND PURPOSE, FIND THEIR PLACE, OR FIND PEACE, EACH OF THESE ARTISTS ALLOWED THEIR ART PRACTICE TO GIVE THEM A NEW PERSPECTIVE THAT THEY PROUDLY SHARE WITH THE WORLD.
FINDING SELF
A
TER + MURALIST
IL PAIN CATIE LEWIS, O
three-month-long trip to Asia sparked the artist within Catie Lewis. Fresh out of school, Catie traveled across the world with a friend where they immersed themselves in their environment. They saw murals and art around every corner, including in the hostels where they stayed. “I was in India for the first leg of the trip, and we stayed in a hostel where we were allowed to paint on the walls,” Catie recalls. “My first ever mural was a funky, tropical painting above my friend’s bed.” Soon after returning from her inspirational trip, Catie had the chance to explore her newfound interest even further when the smoothie shop where she was working in Charleston, South Carolina, commissioned her to paint a mural for them. Though murals weren’t a common sight in Charleston where she spent her college years, or Connecticut where she grew up, Catie noticed murals everywhere when she moved to Austin in 2019. It was here that she found inspiration to really pursue her calling in art, along with encouragement from her coworkers — all of whom she says had a creative side hustle of their own. On a whim, with only a sketchbook of drawings, Catie applied to be a vendor at an art market soon after arriving in Austin. “It was really nerve-wracking,” she admits. “I had literally nothing but sketches in my sketchbook, but I signed up and was like, ‘let’s see what happens.’”
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The self-taught artist began showing her work, which was primarily minimalistic line drawings at the time, at local art markets around town up until the pandemic hit. Though the lockdown initially threw off her steady cadence of markets, the time spent at home allowed Catie to explore new mediums and take her art to the next level. Already experienced in murals, line drawings, and acrylic painting, Catie decided to give oil painting a try. “I had already tried so many mediums and styles and subject matters,” she says. “I wanted to go a bit further and find a medium that let me pull off all the ideas I had in my head.” One of those ideas stemmed from her time in Asia. She looked back at photos from her trip, which included a visit to the Philippines, where she was born and where her birth family lives, and felt inspired to represent her Filipino heritage using oil paint. What resulted was a collection of oil paintings that depict the tropical beauty of the Philippines and the strength of its people. Connected to her ancestral roots, Catie continues to focus on Filipino women as a muse for her work. “My work is getting more complex as I go because I really want to push boundaries and see what I can do,” she says. As she continues to explore her style and interests as an emerging artist, Catie’s journey is one that’s rooted in self-discovery. “I personally want to feel empowered by my art,” says Catie. “It’s really just for me.” CONTACT:
catielewis.com @catiegl.art
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23
FINDING PLACE TOM JEAN WEBB, PAINTER + SCULPTOR
S
tepping inside a house in England, cowboy hats and old westerns playing on TV aren’t exactly what anyone would expect to see. But for artist Tom Jean Webb, these were more than familiar sights — they were home.
Tom grew up in the UK and spent a lot of time with his grandfather, who lived next door and happened to be particularly fascinated with the American Southwest. “His house was a bit of a museum for all things Southwest,” Tom remembers. Being surrounded by this American influence, the love for the Southwest naturally trickled down to Tom, who even had his own Stetson hat and pair of cowboy boots as a kid, courtesy of his grandfather. Being from a family of makers (his mother upholstered furniture and made curtains while his grandfather restored cars), working with his hands became a natural outlet for him to translate his inspiration into something tangible. The sweeping landscape of the Southwest, which offers a “never-ending space to roam,” as Tom describes, became the primary muse for the UK artist, whose work first brought him overseas to Los Angeles and eventually to Austin. While landing in Austin was fortuitous, there was also something so predetermined about him ending up immersed in the landscape that he had painted from afar for so long. Deserts and mountains, and all of the shapes and textures that are associated with them, are prominent figures depicted in Tom’s large-scale paintings. However, they’re illustrated in a way that’s much more whimsical than what one would see trekking through the desert. Thick black lines carefully form around playful shapes of muted color to connect and bring to life the “romance” of the Southwest, as Tom describes. Not one to limit himself to one medium, Tom’s found-object sculptures explore the same distinct shapes and look as if they’ve been pulled directly out of his paintings in three-dimensional form. Though he hopes to tell a story with each of his pieces, he tries to stay present throughout the process and also doesn’t take himself too seriously. “Making artwork is essentially playing, and the artwork is a byproduct of playing,” Tom explains. For years, Tom was far from his biggest muse. Now that he’s immersed in the very landscape he envisioned, he’s focused on finding his place here and finding himself in his work. Even so, Tom’s earliest influence, his grandfather, remains a prominent pillar of his art. Tom reflects on the connection to his inspiration and his grandfather’s lifelong passion. “He liked the idea of going out west to find yourself and find your freedom.” CONTACT:
tomjeanwebb.com @tomjeanwebb
24 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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“HE LIKED THE IDEA OF GOING OUT WEST TO FIND YOURSELF AND FIND YOUR FREEDOM.”
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25
FINDING PEACE
ARIELLE AUSTIN, ABSTRACT PAINTER
“I HOPE MY WORK ALLOWS PEOPLE TO TRULY SEE THEMSELVES AND ASK THEIR OWN SELFREFLECTIVE QUESTIONS.”
26 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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W
hen Arielle Austin steps up to a blank canvas, before she dips her brush into the paint or even considers what she’s about to create, she begins with a pause and a prayer. Arielle sees her works as “a meeting with God,” she explains. While art is often used as an outlet for people to express themselves, Arielle feels pulled by something bigger than herself. She believes she was “created by the ultimate Creator,” and as such, she allows herself to be a conduit for ultimate creativity. As a result, her abstract paintings feel intuitive and connected, as if the brush showed up and moved about the canvas on its own to express the emotions for which Arielle didn’t have the words. The California native has been painting professionally for the last seven years. Her first gallery show was in 2014 in her home state, but her work stems from a much deeper calling to create. After graduating college and joining the workforce as a graphic designer, Arielle found herself unfulfilled and questioning what she really wanted to do in life. She fell into what she describes as a “dark space” and turned to painting after work as a grounding outlet and a way to find herself. It wasn’t long before painting became a therapeutic exercise through which she felt spiritually connected and began to pursue more seriously. After moving to Austin in 2015, she expected to put her practice on hold and pursue a more traditional career as she got settled into a new city. However, intrinsic qualities have a way of showing up regardless of what is planned. Arielle explains, “I got here, and within the first week, I was already painting because that’s what I’m supposed to be doing.” When it comes to abstract painting, there’s always room for introspection and individual interpretation, and Arielle’s contemporary paintings are strong representations of that. Splashes of color whip across the canvas, a balance of intensity and gentleness, depending on the angle or how the viewer may be feeling. “Part of why I paint abstractly is to share, without words, part of me with others in hopes that they will be brave enough to do the same in their own way,” says Arielle.“I hope my work allows people to truly see themselves and ask their own self-reflective questions.” Over the years, as Arielle has found her voice and settled into her calling as an artist, it’s clear her work has developed into something that she describes as “less restless and more peaceful.”
CONTACT:
arielle-austin.com @arielle_austin
E S O P R U P G N FINDI T
KI, PAPER ARTIS
AMANDA WITUC
“WHEN I’M AFFECTED BY A COLOR PALETTE, IT’S LIKE HEARING A SONG.”
J
ust a few years ago, if Amanda Witucki was asked if she were an artist, she would’ve likely said “no.” As a self-described “crafty” person who loves to host, Amanda, the artist behind the art practice, The Paper Committee, has always been drawn to creating experiences. “I’ve always wanted to be a modern-day Martha Stewart,” she admits. Before there was The Paper Committee, there was The Confetti Committee, Amanda’s wedding and event design business that primarily produced handmade decor. While running this business, Amanda often found herself making much of the decor from paper, whether that was for intricate garlands or fun backdrops. She even briefly had a YouTube series where she taught folding paper tutorials. However, throughout these creative pursuits, she never quite felt like everything aligned. “I could never figure out how to find the right audience,” Amanda remembers. Paper has always quietly been in the background of Amanda’s creative process, but it took her awhile to realize that it could be the medium itself. One day, while filming a video for her YouTube series, she played around with gluing together the geometric shapes of paper she made, and an idea sparked. ‘What if she used these individual pieces to make large scale paper installations?’ Amanda took this idea to craftHER, a local craft market, and it was there that her first paper installation was on public display. From there, everything she has been working so hard for finally made sense. Local patrons began to commission Amanda to create paper installations in their homes. Soon after, a friend encouraged her to make smaller versions of her installations and put them on canvas. Before she knew it, Amanda had found a new creative outlet for her paper passion. Vibrant and textural, Amanda’s work pops right off whatever surface it’s on, whether canvas or a wall, to make a bold 3-dimensional statement. Individually, each geometric piece is sharp and angular, but together they create a shape that flows as seamlessly as water. It’s clear that Amanda has a knack for color and can naturally translate that emotional connection through her work. “When I’m affected by a color palette, it’s like hearing a song to me,” she says. “I try to match it and translate that feeling to other people.” Amanda is still passionate about creating experiential moments, but now she does it through paper and art exhibits. Finally, she has fully embraced her career as an artist. “It felt cheesy to say for the first 50 times,” Amanda smiles, “but yeah, I’m an artist!” CONTACT:
papercommittee.com @thepapercommittee
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Go+ do
October
+Nov 2021
32 go
&view
A ROTATING BODY OF WORK OFFERS THE PUBLIC PLENTY TO SEE AND PONDER AT THIS GALLERY.
34 go
&party
FIND THE BEST PLACE TO THROW A PARTY AT ONE OF THESE EAST AUSTIN DESTINATIONS.
eastside | go&do
Work + Play
Educating the Public through Rotational Works WORDS BY
Jessi Devenyns Bowling
PHOTOS Will
It turns out that 20 individual artists mixed together is the perfect recipe for a balanced body of work. “It actually works out pretty well,” explained Jonas Criscoe, one of the founding members of Icosa Collective. “We cap it at 20 members, never any more, never any less.”
I
t also turns out that this number makes a great name, too. Icosa is a geometric collective where members create, educate, and show work on a rotational schedule that echoes the form of an icosahedron, or a twenty-sided polygon. With 20 different artists – not including the frequent visiting artists – and one month each for a show, the math dictates that there will be more creatives than months in the year. To solve this mathematical quandary, as well as add an additional level of interest in the revolving gallery, Jonas explains that each show is a double-feature where two artists with two diverse styles and/or mediums work jointly to create an exhibit. “It’s really great when you see those two-person shows, and you think, ‘how is this even going to work?’” laughs Jonas who
explains that he is routinely in awe of the ways in which two seemingly incongruous bodies of work exist in harmony within the walls of the gallery. “It’s so disparate, yet it comes together,” he marvels. However, over the past year, not everyone has been able to come together, and for months, the Icosa Gallery was divided from the public by a thick pane of glass. Instead of becoming a barrier, their creative minds repurposed the idea of window dressing to suit the needs of a gallery. In a moment of inspiration, Jonas remembers that he and some of the members chose to have their monthly shows face the window and rotate the display at a measured weekly cadence to allow passersby to enjoy the experience of walking through a gallery but without actually crossing
the threshold. “Art…” Jonas explains, “doesn’t stop.” While this precautionary measure has given way to appointments and limited visiting hours for masked groups, the playful spirit of creativity pops in the air of this gallery. On any given day, a member of the collective is showing the work of their peers to the public, or someone is diligently crafting in the background, absorbed in art, much in the same way the gallery hopes to draw in viewers. Jonas says with conviction, “Art is very important to us. I mean, we put our money and our sweat equity where our mouth is.”
Contact:
916 Springdale Rd., Bldg. 2 #102 icosacollective.com
Can’t Get Enough? This fall, browse additional shows by members of the Icosa Collective at the Spellerberg Projects Masur Gallery in Lockhart, Texas. 32 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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Dinner served everyday 10AM-3PM Dining in and patio seating available. Mourcafe.com | 512.442.6687 1414 Shore District Dr. Bldg. 3 Suite 120 {the creative side of austin}
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33
eastside | go&do
a twist. The chef-prepared menu is sure to impress while entertaining guests on their beautiful property. Rosewood can accommodate private parties of two to 200, so whether you’re planning an intimate evening or a larger event, Rosewood’s friendly staff is ready to help you throw a memorable party. Rosewoodatx.com | 1209 Rosewood Ave.
3
The Cathedral
Home to the all-women art collective atxGALS, this reimagined 1930s church turned vibrant creative space and party venue, The Cathedral offers up their stunning space complete with mid century furniture and ample natural light for private rentals. Perfect for everything from corporate events to dinner parties to the elegant wedding of your dreams, The Cathedral’s updated historic setting is as unique as your event. 2403 E 16th St. | thecathedralatx.com
6
best
1
Wolf House Austin
Located inside a 19th century mansion in the vibrant East Cesar Chavez district, Wolf House brings an updated look to a historic home. In addition to enjoying the timeless architecture and convenient location, guests will be thrilled to indulge in the scratch-made, seasonal menu designed by the highly-trained in-house catering team.1602 E Cesar Chavez St. | wolfhouseaustin.com
Poquito Street Events
East Austin Venues It’s Time to Party!
WORDS BY Abby L. Johnson PHOTO OF Springdale Station
Whether planning a wedding, corporate party, or a kickass event of your own design, East Austin is the place to be. Each of these venues offers a variety of styles to suit any vision for the perfect place to throw down.
Springdale Station
Spacious Springdale Station is a quintessentially East Austin gem. Formerly home to an iconic train station, the reimagined space offers the perfect backdrop for events of all kinds. The classic, elegant design leaves room for event planners to customize the ample indoor and outdoor areas to fit just about any vibe. Plus, their staff of event experts is always available to offer ad34 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
2
vice to make sure that every occasion is one for the books. 979 Springdale Rd, Ste. 160 | springdalestation.com
Rosewood Gulf Coast Chophouse
Host your next gathering in a lovingly restored 1890s home. Dine on oysters, steak, and other southern comfort fare with
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For intimate events, there’s no place cozier than this down-to-earth backyard oasis. With a large outdoor patio and pool, backyard games, and even chickens, this is a space designed for all ages to enjoy. The indoor space includes ample amenities, including a fully-equipped kitchen and even a laundry room. 1801 Poquito St. #1349 | poquitostreetevents.com
6
Offsite
When 5pm rolls around or when the weekend arrives, Offsite, one of East Austin’s reimagined coworking spaces, opens up shop for private after-hour parties and events. With plenty of indoor and outdoor space, a fully-equipped kitchen with a functional bar and barista station, plus all the amenities one would expect from a space catered to young professionals, Offsite provides a streamlined, yet hip, venue for your next big party. 5323 Levander Loop | meetoffsite.com For more unique places to throw a party, visit eastsideatx.com/Best-Venues-in-Austin.
Networking event
2021
PRESENTED BY
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AN EVENING OF CELEBRATION & FUN! RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY! EASTSIDEATX.COM/WOMENSEVENT2021 MUSIC BY IVY ROOTS
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Rachel Wolfson Smith, “Everything is Everything,” 2021, 6’ x10’, Graphite on Paper
FEATURING NEW DRAWINGS BY RACHEL WOLFSON SMITH “EVERYTHING IS EVERYTHING” OCTOBER 30 – DECEMBER 4 CONTEMPORARY FINE ART GALLERY COMMITTED TO CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH LEADING LOCAL AND REGIONAL ARTISTS.
SCAN TO VEIW CURRENT ARTWORK
(737) 209-0379 . IVESTERCONTEMPORARY.COM @IVESTER_CONTEMPORARY . 916 SPRINGDALE RD BLDG 2, SUITE 107
Home + away
October
+Nov 2021
38 home A LOCAL ARCHITECTURE FIRM TRANSFORMS AN UNUSED SPACE INTO A STYLISH MULTI-PURPOSE SUITE.
40 away
TRAVEL TO AN ELEVATED MOUNTAIN TOWN FILLED WITH ADVENTURE, WORLD-CLASS CUISINE, AND SPECTACULAR VIEWS.
eastside | home
Renovation for Creation When Pollen Architecture first met film the directors and team behind award-winning production studio, The Bear, they were working their video-making magic out of a charming 1950s home that lacked their growing business needs. Now, their creative space is much more functional and sleek than it once was. While the home itself was functional for dayto-day operations, they needed a dedicated space in-house for meetings and screenings for their clients. WORDS BY Abby
L. Johnson
PHOTOS BY
T
Leonid Furmansky
he Bear’s full-service production team cleverly saw potential to add more usable space to their studio by converting the unused garage into an editing suite and viewing room. Prior to architectural intervention, the garage was a musty subterranean area subject to flooding where storage wasn’t even an option. Over the course of six months, Pollen Architecture turned the unusable garage into a multifunctional 530 square-foot workspace. 38 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
Besides solving the drainage issues on the lot, one of the most significant structural changes made was the addition of a wall to section off the garage into three separate spaces: the main editing suite and viewing room, a flex space in the back, and between, a spacious, modern full bathroom. The walls and portions of the ceiling were carefully clad with warm wood tones using smooth plywood, adding almost a picture frame effect. Pollen find more at eastsideatx.com
co-founder and architectural designer, Elizabeth Alford, explains, “We like plywood for this space because it’s kind of rough and ready feeling. It’s affordable, and it [gives] a sense of where the material came from. You see the fingerprint of the tree, and it gives [the space] a sense of warmth.” This careful attention to functionality and use of materials is marked throughout the renovation. Even the grain of each wooden panel was carefully aligned to create seamless transitions.
“We like plywood for this space because it’s kind of rough and ready feeling. It’s affordable, and it [gives] a sense of where the material came from. You see the fingerprint of the tree, and it gives [the space] a sense of warmth.”
Each of Pollen’s projects gives thought to how natural light flows through the space, a design aspect that was especially important in this project because it needed to function as both an editing workspace and screening room. The need for ample daylight posed a bit of a challenge. The garage is positioned at the bottom of a sloping driveway, making it an underground hideaway. The Pollen team decided to utilize large sliding glass doors to allow natural light to pour in. Knowing this could cause a glare on the large screen the directors would soon use to display their work, Pollen chose doors that included built-
in blackout curtains between the two panes of glass that would shutter out the sun at their leisure. Project Manager John Algood points out the simple lines and natural design elements, noting that “part of what was great about working with [The Bear] is that they had so many nice pieces. So that’s where splashes of color come in. They had great taste so we could restrain some of the design elements.” Today, the former garage functions as a modern workspace and client hangout, outfitted with touches of rugged, yet modern, style inspired by the studio’s namesake. It’s an inviting space fueled by the creative energy {the creative side of austin}
brought by The Bear and channelled through Pollen’s thoughtful design.
Contact:
Pollen Architecture 1224 E 12th St., Suite 210 pollenarchitecture.com info@pollenarchitecture.com The Bear janice@thebear.us thebear.us @thebear.us eastsideatx.com
39
for a quick and filling snack, or order both, and enjoy a full-blown French feast prepared fresh by award-winning chef Michel Poumay.
eastside | away
Carver Brewing Company, situated on Main Avenue, is a gem in the downtown district. This brew pub has been serving craft beer and delicious eats since 1986. Stop by to enjoy a cold one and tap into the local culture at a true community mainstay. Plus, happy hour is every weekday from 3-5pm. Before heading home, take in a final gaze of the gorgeous mountain city. There’s just not anywhere else quite like Durango.
A Weekend In
Durango
Explore Southwest Colorado WORDS BY Abby L. Johnson PHOTOS Courtesy of Visit Durango
Upon arriving in Durango, peer out along the horizon and take in the views of the surrounding San Juan Mountain peaks reaching up into the clear blue Colorado skies. The landscape is strikingly different from that of the familiar Texas Hill Country. Take the time to savor the novel sight.
Day One Settle into the rhythm of this deceptively sleepy town with a walk around the square. The pace of life is slow, but Durango is bursting at the seams with delicious eats, cultural experiences, and outdoor excursions to keep the visitors occupied for days. For a view of the whole city, head to the
Fort Lewis College campus, situated above the city center. Make sure to explore the institution itself while visiting. The campus permeates a welcoming atmosphere. Adventurous folks will want to make sure to plan some outdoor activities. Hiking trails are abundant. Head outside the city to the Vallecito Reservoir
40 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
and walk along the lake, or make a trip to Mesa Verde National Park, home to historical Pueblo communities. Booking tickets to the park about two weeks prior is wise.
Day Two Wake up to the refreshingly cool Colorado air and start the day with another mini day trip to Purgatory Ski Resort. The scenic drive is worth it on its own, and the chance to see snow anytime of year is a refreshing treat for Texans.
For more incredible views, traverse the San Juan National Forest via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The vintage railway itself is a national historic landmark that can’t be missed. Operating since the 1880s, this route offers the rare opportunity for passengers to travel in a steam locomotive while overlooking stunning sights like the Animas Canyon, which is carved into the mountains by the Animas River. Explore the city of Silverton after the history-filled train ride. The surrounding area is filled with ghost towns and old mining camps leftover from the 19th century. This is the perfect adventure for history buffs. Thrill-seekers may be inclined to go white-water rafting
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along the Animas River. There are several local companies offering rafting, so do some research ahead of time and plan to catch some rapids while visiting Silverton.
Day Three Visitors shouldn’t miss out on any of the culinary delights the city has to offer. On the final day of this mountain excursion, a stop by Michel’s Corner Crepes for a satisfying craving of a European treat. Choose from artisanal savory or sweet crepes
The Arts
Make sure to soak in a healthy dose of Durango’s signature southwestern-influenced aesthetic with a visit to one of the 30 art museums and galleries across the city! Plan a visit during the annual Fall and Spring Gallery Walks of downtown Durango to experience the range of work produced in this creative hub.
The Stay
The historic Strater Hotel, located in the heart of the downtown district, offers a convenient location and beautiful accommodations, including ornate woodwork and period wallpaper. Plus, the hotel is pet friendly, so furry friends can join the mountain adventures.
Small Business Bookkeeping agruedabookkeeping.com
Specialized Services • Full Charge Bookkeeping • Payroll • QuickBooks • Inventory • Invoicing • Purchase Orders • Accounts Receivable • Preparation of Annual & Quarterly Taxes • Sales Tax LLC Formations
(512) 963-9387 | 2823 E MLK Jr. Blvd., Ste. 130 agruedabookkeeping |
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42 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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Sip+ taste
October
+Nov 2021
44 taste feature
NO NEED TO TRAVEL TO MEXICO TO FIND A WARM CARIBBEAN ATMOSPHERE, SIMPLE AND REFINED TACOS, & TROPICAL COCKTAILS
46 farm to table
BRING SUSHI NIGHT HOME WITH THESE SIMPLE, YET AUTHENTIC, JAPANESE RECIPES.
48 dining guide
A CURATED GUIDE TO THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN EAST AUSTIN
50 sip
feature
A NEW COFFEEHOUSE FUELS THE DAY & CREATIVE PURSUITS AT THE SAME TIME.
eastside | taste
De Nada: Thank us Later!
The neighborhood cantina you never knew you needed WORDS BY
Jessi Devenyns Bella
PHOTOS BY Shelby
44 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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Guests are welcome to come, to sit down, to have a drink, and maybe have a bite to eat. For owner Stephen Shallcross, it’s nothing to run this cantina; it’s just the pleasure of sharing a moment. In fact, after a meal at De Nada, a “thank you” for the warm welcome is likely to be the phrase heard passing between tables. It is also a phrase that is certainly going to be spoken by Stephen, who attributes the existence of this restaurant to the relationships that he’s cultivated over his 20+ years of working in the restaurant industry. In particular, he takes his hat off to the kitchen staff who taught him the pleasure of a postshift taco and libation. “My favorite thing to eat for lunch for the last 26 years has been what they cooked for lunch in the kitchen,” reveals Stephen, who grins and says these meals often came with a cold beer. “And over the years, different chefs have contributed different recipes around their favorite carnitas, their favorite barbacoa, their favorite marinade for fish. Really just what they wanted to eat, but bringing it to share as a family meal.” As a result, De Nada’s simple menu has been defined by these humble contributions.
lla is hand made on a comal from blue corn masa that is pressed between palms to create shapes that are as personal as the topping chosen for adornment. From barbacoa to fish to vegetables, everything is contained within the warm folds of a fresh tortilla and complemented by a host of interesting flavors that pique the tongue and engage the senses. It is easy to get lost in the colors, scents, breezes, and chatter of the captivating space at De Nada. A bit of a Margaritaville oasis, one would not be faulted for feeling transported on vacation. And in fact, that ability to escape reality for a brief moment and create a watering hole for anyone at an enticing price point is what drove the collaboration that created the cantina. “In short,” says Stephen, “the taqueria is all the remarkable moments experienced in Mexico brought home to share.”
It is that simplicity that defines the dishes at this cantina, where the menu is 11 items long. Offering a short list of options to choose from that embrace uncomplicated, yet flavorful, comfort is what makes this taqueria so appealing. Nevertheless, the less-is-more attitude belies an attention to detail that is apparent in both the décor and layers of flavor that Stephen shrugs off as a natural part of creating a lovingly-prepared meal, saying, “It’s nothing” – an alternative translation of the restaurant’s name.
“The most hospitable experiences I’ve ever had were in Mexico, and the most warm and lovingly-prepared meals I’ve ever had were in Mexico,” he says, wearing a wistful smile full of memories. At this colorful cantina, the love of tacos and bebidas not only speak to a long history of collaborative conviviality, but they also pay homage to the deep ties that Stephen and his staff have to Mexico. Whether it’s a grandmother’s recipe memorized as a child or several seasons spent working the restaurants of the Maya Riviera, Stephen explains that De Nada serves plates peppered with memorable culinary elements that define the regional cuisines of Mexico.
While doing more with less is the backbone behind the concept of this taco bar, there is no indication that simplicity has hampered creativity in any way. Each corn torti-
(512) 615-3555 4715 E Cesar Chavez St. hablar@denadacantina.com denadacantina.com
Contact:
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eastside | farm to table
From the Sidewalks of Japan TO THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME WORDS BY
Justin Butts RECIPE BY Kayla Butts Benevides
PHOTO BY Rachel
By all accounts, the best sushi in the world is served on the sidewalks of Japan. As patrons weave their way through the bustling crowds of the big cities, thousands of street vendors with carts line up, one after another, selling sushi.
T
hese street vendors are actually artisan chefs at the top of their game. Sightings of an old man with white hair and deep lines in his face are common. Standing behind his ancient cart, his fast, expert hands deftly roll sushi as passersby watch. (If you’ve experienced this first hand, then you know it is the best you’ve ever tasted.) Along with the old, the line-up usually includes a tiny two-wheeled cart with a serious young female chef rapidly serving nigiri to a line of people who take their order and briskly walk away while indulging in the treat. The nigiri of this unknown chef is world-class, better than anything served at a five-star restaurant in the States. Why is the sushi on the sidewalks of Japan so unbelievably delicious? First, the competition is fierce and relentless. Thousands of chefs on the streets compete for the passing crowds of highly sophisticated diners. If a vendor offers a less-than-spectacular dish, the locals will simply bypass that cart and line up at the next. Each piece of sushi must be its own work of art. A mediocre chef will not last a week on the streets of Japan. Second, the ingredients are of the highest quality. The seafood arrives freshly-caught on boats just minutes away from the sidewalk vendors. Visitors can actually view the boats unloading within eye-shot of the cart where their sushi is rolled. The fish is so fresh that chefs must often let it sit for a while to develop its flavor. Most may never make it to the streets of Japan, but serving great sushi at home is not nearly as difficult as one might think. Here is the good news. Great sushi is 1% technique and 99% ingredients. Shopping wisely ensures sushi night will be unforgettable. Never skimp on the ingredients! It’s easy to spot when chefs cut corners on the quality of the ingredients; there is no hiding it. The first ingredient is rice. In a typical Japanese supermarket, there are more than 200 varieties
of rice on the shelves. Even a tiny gas station will sell twenty or thirty types of rice. Austin has several Asian markets that feature authentic sushi rice and other must-have ingredients. Sushi-grade seafood can be found
at a good local fishmonger. Gulf shrimp and flounder are excellent options. Ask for sushi-grade tuna, salmon, roe, squid, and shellfish. Sushi-grade seafood is frozen at a very low temperature to help ensure the fish are safe to consume raw.
LET’S ROLL
Types of Sushi MAKI Strips of fish, vegetables and herbs encased in rice and wrapped in nori and cut into slices. • FUTOMAKI: What one thinks of as a sushi roll - fish, vinegared rice, and other ingredients rolled in nori • TEMAKI: Literally “hand roll” - rice and sushi arranged in a tapered, coneshaped nori • URAMAKI: commonly known as an “inside-out roll” - a maki roll with the fish and vegetables on the interior of the roll, followed by nori, and lastly a layer of rice SASHIMI Raw slices of fish served on their own or with a sauce or vegetable. NIGIRI A slice of raw fish on top of a mound of rice, often with a small dab of wasabi
SUSHI RICE MAKES: 4 ROLLS PREP TIME: 3 MIN. COOK TIME: 20 MIN.
Ingredients: 2 c. uncooked short- or medium-grain rice 2 c. water, plus more to rinse rice ½ c. rice vinegar ¼ c. granulated sugar 1 t. salt Directions: In a colander, rinse rice with cool running water while stirring and agitating with your fingers until water runs clear. Place rice in a 4 quart pot and cover with 2 cups water. Bring water to boil over high heat, stirring occasionally. While water boils, combine vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Stir until sugar and salt are mostly dissolved. Cook the rice in boiling water for 2 minutes. Cover rice and move the pot to the smallest burner on your stove top. Continue to heat rice on the lowest heat setting, stirring once to prevent the bottom layer of rice from burning. Remove from heat once rice has absorbed all the water. Let the rice cool to about body temperature. Add vinegar mixture to cooked rice and stir until liquid is absorbed, taking care not to mash rice. Cover with a damp towel to keep rice from drying out while preparing sushi.
Sushi is an art form best practiced at home. The only competition is the last roll you made, and each one just gets better. This is an art everyone will love learning to master.
SHRIMP URAMAKI SERVES: 4 MAKES: 1 ROLL PREP TIME: 15 MIN. COOK TIME: 2 MIN.
Ingredients: ¼ lb. raw gulf shrimp, peeled and deveined Heavy pinch salt ½ t. Chinese five spice 1 sheet of nori (dried seaweed) 1/3 c. prepared sushi rice ¼ avocado, thinly sliced ¼ cucumber, seeded, and thinly sliced lengthwise ¼ red bell pepper, seeded with pith removed, thinly sliced lengthwise 1/8 mango, thinly sliced lengthwise 1 scallion with end removed 2 sprigs fresh cilantro 2 T. toasted sesame seeds or roe to garnish Directions: Place two cups of water, salt, and Chinese five spice in a small pot over high heat. Add shrimp to the pot once it begins to boil and cook for about a minute, until shrimp turn pink. Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and reserve to the side. Cover your sushi mat with a sheet of cling wrap. Place a sheet of nori on your mat, with the longest side facing you. Spoon rice onto the nori. Wet your hands with water and using your fingers spread rice to cover the surface of the nori leaving only the top ½” uncovered.
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THE RICE IS HISTORY
Before refrigeration, people stored fish by wrapping it About two in vinegared rice. inches Over time, they befrom the gan to realize the bottom combination of the of the roll, rice, vinegar, and place avocafish made an do end to end excellent meal in a horizontal of its own.
line across the length of the nori. Repeat with remaining ingredients, including reserved shrimp. Pick up the end of the bamboo mat closest to you, and while securing the inner components with your fingers, roll the mat away from you with a fair amount of pressure. Continue to roll the mat away from you, adjusting the mat as necessary. Leaving cling wrap intact around the formed roll makes the roll easy to cut. Using a wet, sharp knife, cut the roll into 1/2” sections. Remove the cling wrap and garnish with sesame seeds or roe if desired. Serve roll with pickled ginger, wasabi, soy sauce, and spicy mayo (see recipe below).
SPICY MAYO SERVES: 8 PREP TIME: 2 MIN.
Ingredients: ¼ c. high-quality mayonnaise (Duke’s recommended) 1 T., plus 1 t. sriracha sauce Directions: In a small bowl, mix mayo and sriracha well. Add more sriracha if desired.
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O U R FAV E R E S TA U R A N T S
pick 9
FOR THE EASTSIDE
EASTSIDE
dining guide
Mour Cafe
Featuring a rotating selection of the world’s most satisfying dishes, Mour Cafe is where gastropub meets comfort. They serve environmentally conscious ingredients, sourced from local farmers, which bring flavor that’s uniquely Austin to each soul-filled dish. mourcafe.com | 1414 Shore District Dr. Bldg. 3, Ste. 120
Cisco's
Rosewood Restaurant
This locally owned Gulf Coast Chophouse is located in a historic 1890s home with expansive outdoor dining overlooking downtown, featuring locally sourced 40-Day Dry Aged Bone in Ribeye and all the comforting favorites with an inventive twist. 1209 Rosewood Ave. | rosewoodatx.com
Flyrite Chicken
Disrupting the fast food industry one sandwich at a time, Flyrite is a drive-thru with all-natural, antibiotic-free chicken as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options. 2129 E 7th St. | flyritechicken.com
The menu at Cisco’s provides flavorful TexMex options for any meal of the day. Order favorites like their mouth-watering breakfast tacos or comforting cheese enchiladas for dinner. Either way, the food and the service will have you wanting more. 1511 E 6th St. | ciscosaustin.com
Oddwood Ales
Designed as a cozy neighborhood pub, Oddwood Ales provides a variety of flavorful ales, home-made pizzas, and Italian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with arcade games and a pet-friendly patio. 3108 Manor Rd. | oddwoodales.com
Swift Pizza Co.
Bring the whole family any night of the week to enjoy incredible pizza, unique drinks, and all around entertaining vibes. This nostalgiainducing pizza joint offers fun for all ages. 3223 E 7th St. | swiftpizzaco.com
Hillside Farmacy
Something about Hillside Farmacy’s weekend brunches, patio dinners, and cocktails just make you feel better. Perhaps that’s due to its historical location in the lovingly renovated 1950s Hillside Drugstore. Or perhaps it’s because the fresh, carefully selected seasonal food that comes from local farms and onto your plate is just good medicine. 1209 E 11th St. | hillsidefarmacy.com
Jacoby’s Restaurant
This Southern-inspired menu features family-raised beef that comes directly from the Jacoby Ranch, served with heaping sides of veggies to match its freshness. Enjoy their signature chicken fried steak or a juicy burger on their cozy patio overlooking the Colorado River. 3235 E Cesar Chavez St. | jacobysaustin.com
Grizzelda’s
This esthetically pleasing Tex-Mex restaurant offers up something for every palate with their simple, yet classic, menu of staples Austinite’s have come to expect from the Jacoby Restaurant Group. Grizzelda’s serves up favorites with an elevated twist, guaranteeing a good time for all who visit. 105 Tillery St. | grizzeldas.com
48 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
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TAKE-OUT & DELIVERY OPTIONS AVAILABLE
order online at swiftpizzaco.com Dine-In, Patio, Curbside or Delivery DINNER: Wednesday - Sunday WEEKLY FEATURES WEDNESDAY: All Night Happy Hour THURSDAY: 1/2 Price Pint Night SUNDAY: 1/2 Price Bottles of Wine (512) 422-9776 • 3223 East 7th Street
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eastside | sip
A Space for Caffeine-Craving Creatives
Dear Diary Coffeehouse WORDS BY
Abby L. Johnson Eric Morales
PHOTOS BY
Scan to follow stories, giveaways & more!
This all-vegan coffeehouse has its origins in two separate, but compatible, ideas. Co-owner Joshua Adrian wanted to create a cafe
$25 0 5412-3
5
@SYNCATMUELLER
50 EASTside | Oct/Nov 2021
A
glance around the shop, whose walls are lined with eclectic, vibrant art by locals, invokes the desire to create. One shelf is lined with a selection of journals and art supplies, inviting visitors to post up at a table and make something of their own design.
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VISIT OUR PROPERTY YOUR DREAM APARTMENT AWAITS YOU
Sitting by the spacious window with the aroma of coffee in the air and a warm mug in hand, it’s easy to forget this cozy space nestled into Chicon Street isn’t a loved one’s living room. featuring a communal diary collection, whereas co-owner Litsa was carrying around the dream of an art studio fueled by caffeine. What Dear Diary is today lives somewhere in between those two spaces, not only honoring both visions but also including new ideas born from the circumstances of the Covid-era. Dear Diary was designed for, and by, creatives. Joshua and Litsa took on the formidable task of opening their
doors to the Chestnut neighborhood just as the pandemic hit. In spite of the logistical roadblocks this caused for their burgeoning business, the pair adapted quickly and are ultimately grateful for the innovative ideas that sprang forth from a difficult situation. “We had to get so creative when it came to generating revenue for ourselves. So what we ended up doing not only [generated revenue] but also helped us participate in that initial vision.” Lista elaborates, “We collaborated with lots of local artists!” That’s where all the artlined walls were born, and it’s hard to imagine the space without this element. And while the larger idea of a shared community diary has been set aside for the time, there are several little journals filled with personal notes and sketches scattered around for patrons to flip through (or fill in) as they sip.
Another special thing that came about due to supply chain issues was close partnerships with local restaurants and food vendors. In the beginning, Dear Diary partnered with just two vendors, creating a mutually beneficial support system in an uncertain time. Litsa says, “Because of these tight relationships, I think everyone [became] hyper aware of the interdependency of small businesses.” The pair look forward to what next year holds, curious to see what it will be like to have their doors open with tourists coming and going. “We only know what it’s like to be a neighborhood coffee shop for people who live within a half mile.... we know our neighbors, we know their drinks. We have a menu that is all of our regulars and their drinks.” Lista grins, “So we just press the button, and there’s The Jeremiah.”
Did You Know? Dear Diary’s event lineup offers plenty of choices. From weekly writer meet-ups to musical theater-themed nights, there’s a variety of activities to bring people together which serves the vision of this neighborly and creative coffee shop so well.
4646 MUELLER BLVD AUSTIN, TX 78723
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It’s Your Community. Be a Part Of It.
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Great neighborhoods start with great builders.
Andre, Brookfield Builder Big News! Homes are now available in all three of our communities.
Whether it’s your first home or your retirement dream home, our experienced team takes care of you throughout your journey, from choosing your floor plan and finding financing through design choices and closing. Because at Brookfield Residential, we know it’s more than a home—it’s your future. New inventory is now available in Central Texas—in Addison, Easton Park, and Kissing Tree. See the floor plans and schedule a tour at brookfieldtx.com.