THE SEDIMENT - JEAN BAPTISTE - LIGHTENING IN A BOTTLE - BREAKING THE DOWNTOWN ART WALK - FIGHTASCOPE
MAY 1. VOL 5. NO 5
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AARON DOWNES KERI FREEMAN
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
KERI FREEMAN M A R I S A M A R QU E Z AARON DOWNES N AT E W O O D S I D E GEORGE MARTIN J U L I A S E C K E R WA L K E R
ART
ART HUNTER GREG GOULD R O B E R T PA U L N AT H A N C A R T W R I G H T
EVENTS
JAMES PETERSEN M A D Y L I N E C R U E L LY YADIRA MORENO
FASHION
HENRY DUARTE
5 NO 5
INSIDE
JEAN BAPTISTE LA’s WINE TASTING ADVENTURER by George Martin
10
THE SEDIMENT
MARKETING JOSHUA SWODECK ART HUNTER STEVE CAPRIO READ ALL ABOUT IT... “The last 10 years has brought upon a rash of self-guided ART WALK events now taking place in almost every city across the nation. Taking the stuffy sales staff and “hushed” gallery experience and turning it into more of a festive atmosphere, ART WALKS expose thousands of people to new experiences in an artistic wave of creative influence.” LA MAGAZINE – JULY 2014 “Downtown’s Art Walk turns the streets into an artistic carnival. Here on Gallery Row -- bounded by Main and Spring streets from 2nd to 9th streets -- the scene is as eclectic as the people it has attracted: haircuts being given on sidewalks; saxophone melodies wafting through the smoggy air; a retrofitted 1940s school bus shuttling attendees to off-site galleries. Inspired by the scene, artists let the environment dictate the imagery as they paint on makeshift canvases taped to chain-link fences.” LA TIMES - FEBRUARY 2009
ART WALK NEWS PO BOX 13845 LOS ANGELES CA 90013 “Pomona may be a king among men– when it comes to art walk. With smiling faces, crowds that make the air sticky and food trucks that will make your mouth water, Pomona is where it’s at.” INLAND EMPIRE WEEKLY - JULY 2013
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EDITORS
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RETURN OF THE ART WALK SHUTTLE
FIGHTASCOPE
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Stand Your Ground MAY Astrology Forecast LIVE PAINTING RITUALS AT
LIGHTENING IN A BOTTLE
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DESIGN
KERI FREEMAN
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THE SEDIMENT For Lovers of Finely Crafted Ales and Wines Jamil C. Williams offers wisdom and insight into the world of natural winemaking. Be careful, though, with a taste of his picks, you won’t be able to go back to your supermarket standards. Ladies and gentlemen, I believe drinking natural wine will keep you free from hangovers. And I am not being facetious when I say this. This past new year’s eve, I drank nothing but natural wine. I steered clear of beer and other alcoholic spirits as wine was the only thing I allowed to dare touch my lips. I’d say I drank roughly two and a half bottles worth, and I woke up without a hangover. In fact, I woke up feeling a bit energized. If wine was a faith, I would be a member of the clergy. The world contains enough alcoholic atheists as it is, and I don’t feel like adding to that number. But I’m not the only one who subscribes to this doctrine. The “natural wine” scene has been exploding the past couple of years as “natural” has become the new buzzword for wine newcomers and enthusiasts alike. As it turns out, France alone has over 400 natural wine producers, and that number is growing daily. Natural wine producers are springing up all over the world, and even lesser-known regions such as Slovenia, Georgia and Serbia are following suit. Wine drinkers across the globe are going crazy for this movement. After having been hijacked by fashion trends and consumerism, it’s nice to see natural wine making a comeback. But the commodification of the old
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PG.4
as “new” can seem misleading. Despite the media hype, natural wine is not new. It’s as old as Faith itself. For thousands of years, wine was made simply from crushed grapes that fermented into wine. They were not made in a laboratory with packets of yeast, vitamins, enzymes, reverse osmosis, powdered tannins, sacks of sugar or tartaric acid. Natural wine is like a nostalgic snapshot of what wine was like before technology got involved. It’s like dusting off your 35mm print photo albums and reminiscing through life’s true memorabilia captured on celluloid that you can actually hold in your hand rather than swiping monotonously through some digital pixelated manifestations on your smartphone that have been rendered with that fake tilt-shift and color saturation to make them appear more “appealing” and “film-like.” Natural wines are made from grapes that are farmed organically or biodynamically, harvested manually, and then made without adding or removing anything during the vinification process. Yes, I said anything. However, don’t be fooled by terminology. Just because a wine is deemed “organic” does not necessarily guarantee it was made without intervention. Winemaking regulations are still pretty loose, and with a little parsing of words, vintners can take full advantage of organic’s powerful marketing message without actually practicing what they preach. They can talk the talk without having to walk the walk. So, be careful. It’s a vinous jungle out there.
CULVER CITY
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CHINA
A R T S C E L E B R AT E S
16YEARS
Join China Art Gallery’s sixteenth anniversary celebration on May 2nd as they host a group show of artists including Katherine Bernhardt (shown above), Sarah Braman, Bjorn Copeland, Billy Childish, Julia Dault, Kim Fisher, Morgan Fisher, Karin Gulbran, Mark Hagen, Thomas Helbig, Sean Landers, JP Munro, Seb Patane, Jon Pylypchuk, David von Schlegell, Eric Wesley, Pae White, Thomas Zipp and many others. Named after a box sign that had been left behind by the space’s previous tenant, China Art Objects was founded by Peter Kim, Amy Yao, Mark Heffernan, Steve Hanson and Giovanni Intra. Shortly after its opening however, the gallery became a project of critic Intra and musician/librarian Hanson. The gallery was instrumental in bringing about a renaissance in Los Angeles art and in particular the Chinatown district, where it was the first gallery to set up shop along Chung King Road. Designed by artist Pae White, the gallery officially opened its doors in January 1999. China Art Objects’ success quickly attracted other galleries and alternative art spaces to Chinatown. With China Art Objects at its center, Chinatown grew to become one of the primary commercial art gallery districts in Los Angeles – most importantly for emerging art. China Art Objects moved from its landmark Chinatown location in 2010 to Culver City. 6086 Comey Avenue, Culver City, CA 90034 (323) 965 – 2264
BEAUTIFUL NOISE AT THINKSPACE
Thinkspace is pleased to present Beautiful Noise, the gallery’s fourth solo exhibition for Japanese artist Yosuke Ueno. A self-taught painter, Ueno has been creating fantastic worlds and characters as long as he can remember. Like tightly knit universes unto themselves, his bizarre and wonderfully unhinged worlds feature a recurring cast of characters and repeated motifs. An intensely emotive painter who, by his own admission, allows his cathartic approach to dictate the
development of his works as they’re made, Ueno’s take on pop surrealism is at times explosive and at others meditative, but is consistently seeking the reconciliation of darkness and whimsy. Inspired by Japanese graphic cultures such as manga and anime, and drawing on the unique stylization of Japanese street fashion, Ueno’s graphic paintings are galvanized by his love of visual culture. Channeling both anger and optimism in the creation of his creatures and surreal landscapes, he seeks the transformation of the negative by invoking hope and positivity through his imagery, even when it betrays trauma and distress in equal parts. The multiplicity of characters in Ueno’s works, and there are over a thousand, hails from the artist’s connection to Japanese Shinto; the polytheistic spiritual tradition in Japan that reveres the greatness in all small things in nature, and seeks the presence of the divine in the minute. Each individual part is as important as the whole. Yosuke Ueno’s works, though beautiful, contemporary and graphic, are loaded with a symbolism that betrays the artist’s deeper spiritual connection to making. Giving his imagination free rein to create on impulse, Ueno builds a surreal cosmos with infinite possibilities. 6009 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 |(310) 558-3375.
PG.5
ART LIGHT
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12. THE REGENT THEATER* 448 S. MAIN STREET LOS ANGELES, CA 90013
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S MAP
IED PLIF HE 1950’S M I S T WN ROM NOR
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NTO ELES W O D NG F
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SOUTH PARK
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MORE...
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356 Mission CB1 Gallery CES Gallery District Gallery Francois Ghebaly Gallery Grice Bench Harmony Murphy Gallery Hauser Wirth & Schimmel Ibid Los Angeles Little Big Man Gallery Mama Gallery Mistake Room Night Gallery Office Hours Play PØST Untitled Project Space Wilding Cran Gallery
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RE
T U S G B The N I o u t
R P S
N
THE ROW is located on the eastside of Spring Street between 4th and 5th, and is where Art Walk visitors have been eagerly cramming to get “through” on their way to-or-fro the Old Bank District galleries on 4th and Main. The crowd moves slow and steady, and carries with it an array of enthusiatic faces, each person given a chance to meet the artists, buy art and get a glimpse at every creative set up.
W O D
side gates of SPRING STREET PARK, a.k.a. The Row have become another epicenter worthy of attention during the DT ART WALK, proving again, that no matter where the artists go the people are sure to follow. Over the past year, every 2nd THURSDAY over two dozen independent artisans have been arriving the earliest, between the hours of 10am and 1pm for a chance to earn space and set up their displays in time for the massive 6 o’clock crowds of the DT ART WALK. Despite past efforts to keep the artists from, setting up, hanging their works on the park’s gate, being on the park’s outside landscaping or occupying the sidewalk after 10pm, the Row remains as the day turns to night during the DT ARTWALK, with an abundance of art sales and eager patrons.
S T S T
I U T AR T O
O N T
ET
PG.8
The future of the Row is uncertain, but DT ART WALK artists have their hopes that the Row will permeate...So far, at least they have gained enough support from public officials to be able to stay...if not inside, outside the park...not to mention the support they have gained from thousands of DT ART WALK attendees.
DOWNTOWN ARTISTS FIND R E F U G E AT
LOS ANGELES CENTER THEATER
...ANOTHER DOOR OPENS.
Although the park gates are locked during the DT ART WALK the artists have secured the public sidewalk just outside the park and are ready to put forth a united effort to request park officials to allow them to possibly open the park for the artists of the DT ART WALK. Opening the park would allow for adequete security, illiminate side walk limitations and public safety issues, provide power for art displays, and give an iconic atmosphere for what the artists have to offer. ART WALK NEWS contacted the park keepers back in January of 2015 in an effort to support opening SPRING STREET PARK for independent artists during the DT ART WALK but has not yet been given a response.
ART WALK AT BATCHELDERS
With the closing of Batchelder’s 100 Year Old Coffee Shop Museum on 6th and Spring and the Downtown gap Art Walk’s ART MART on 6th and Main, came the between galleries on Spring (4th and 7th), independent artisans are feeling the down side of not being able to from secure a permenant space to gain economic support the night’s attendees. er Hope for artists and acoustic acts may be found howev nindepe e welcom they as r Theate Center at Los Angeles ay. dent artists to participate as vendors every 2nd Thursd l The Los Angeles Center Theater is a world class cultura of n donatio and rental space ble afforda center providing space for rehearsals, performances and cultural events and over 39,000 people attended events at the center each year. FMI:THELATC.ORG
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RETURN OF THE
ART WALK SHUTTLE. ATTENTION": Downtown Art Walkers! PREPARE YOURSELF for some awesome additions THIS MAY 14TH, including the return of the ART WALK SHUTTLE, a 15 seat passenger ride spanning over 15 city blocks of the DTLA ARTWALK - in one night. Passengers sign up for two, and receive a Bus Pass, free gifts, and a not so small - BUY ART button - and drink and food specials good at participating venues. ART WALK SHUTTLE STOPS: Explore the artwork of the night, at all four major Downtown gallery locations for meet and greet with the curators and the artists, including a list of galleries and pubs offering drink specials including ViP Sseating, no waiting , $4 drafts beers and half priced cocktails. ART WALK SHUTTLE is loaded with trivia information about the Historic Core, free gifts, art work live music and theatrical performances. Buy a yearly pass for two for $45 or just ride for one night for $15 (includes +1 Guest). Special restrictions apply must be 21 or older to ride!!!
FMI:ARTWALKSHUTTLE.COM
DOWNTOWN ARTWALK TOUR.
Three days after the official announcment of the Return
of the Art Walk Shuttle the Downtown Art Walk announced their UPCOMING ART WALK TOUR, lead by Tour leader, Jeremy Quant. Quant who has worked with the Art Walk Board as an artist and event planner over the past three years, will provide tour goers with gallery visits, artists meet and greets, and background information about the DT ARTWALK past, present and future. The tour cost is $20 per person and is available for purchase on Eventbrite. Tour is limited to 10 people.
historic MURAL TOURs.
The successful Historic Core Mural Tour beginning at Grand Central Market (3rd and Broadway), has made a successful effort to educate the public about public art for over a year. Brought to the art walk by the Mural Conservancy of Los Angeles, every 2nd Thuraday, the tour mixes in with the crowds Art Walk but focuses in on the many fantastic murals in and around the Historic Core. The Mural Conservancy Tour has been so successful the Downtown Art Walk released plans to create a similar tour designed around the Historic Core, adding special presentations by local artists and gallery owners.
PG.9
JEAN BAPTISTE LA WINE ADVENTURER
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DOWNTOWN ANGEL CITY BREWERY’S 3RD ANNUAL HERITAGE FEST
Los Angeles Wine Tasting and Andrew Weiss Gallery collaborated together to create one of a kind event that joins art, music, theatre and fashion in an atmosphere that evokes and compliments the time period and essence of the featured artists that emphasize the subject matter of their work being replayed instead of displayed through the experience of live performances. BY GEORGE MARTIN PHOTOS BY ANA GIBERT PHOTOGRAPHY On Saturday, April 11 Los Angeles Wine Tasting hosted a celebration event at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel for unique Rendezvous honoring unforgettable women of the Hollywood studio era. The event entitled, Femmes D’Hollywood featured live entertainment choreographed in the style of Classic Hollywood spectaculars with Cabaret Versatile, fashion by Clever Vintage Clothing and an exclusive exhibition and silent auction of rare Hollywood fine photography presented by the Andrew Weiss Gallery that spanned over forty years. Sponsored by Los Angeles Magazine Femmes D’Hollywood benefited the Downtown Women’s Center. While listening to DJ Marlon Fuentes’ curated soundtrack of sultry female voices, guests indulged in gourmet amuse-bouches created by Chef Olivier Rousselle and a sip by the pool of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne as well as boutique wines from around the world cherry picked by Langdon Shiverick. In addition to singing and dancing, the celebration continued with music and fashion col-
liding poolside when Clever Vintage Clothing showed its unique collection of vintage garments on live models. Founders, Dave Temple and Sabino Gutierrez have dressed up characters on stage, screen and television for over a decade. Best known for their mid-century looks for productions such as Mad Men and American Horror Story, the “Dynamic Duo of Vintage” is based in Downtown Los Angeles, but travels the world buying inventory. Their most recent acquisition was a department store in rural Colorado containing over 6,000 pieces of never worn 1960s clothes stored away for over forty years. During the event, just before the start of the live performances, an exclusive exhibition and silent auction by the Andrew Weiss Gallery. There were total of twenty photographs on display with each one framed in black wood, mounted on tripods and set on top of the tables for everyone to see, featuring original photographs by the most famous photographers of the studio era that included George Barris, George Hurrell, C.S. Bull, Bert Stern and Kashio Aoki. Taken from 1920s to 60s. Each photograph was signed by the original photographer and portrayed Hollywood’s biggest stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Katherine Hepburn, Jean Harlow and Greta Garbo. Continued on page 16
Angel City Brewery presents the 3rd Annual Heritage Festival Art Show, curated by Cartwheel Art complete with installations, bringing together over 75 artists inspired by the many neighborhoods of Downtown Los Angeles. The festival offers, live painting, music, art exhibits and of course plenty of Angel City Brew. Artists in the exhibition include some of Downtown’s favorites, Michael Chearny, Emmeric Konrad, Jennifer Korsen, Stone Larkin, Colette Miller, Alex Schaefer, Heath Satow, Gronk, and Teale Hatheway. The 3rd Annual Heritage Festival opening reception takes place at Angel City Brewery and its annex located at 215 E. Second Street, The show takes place from May 3rd to 17th with reception, Monday, May 11th. FMI:ANGELSCITYBREWERY.COM FMI:ARTWALKNEWS.COM>>>
PG.11
LA FEMME DEFONCE
@EBANO’S CROSSING Downtown Los Angeles ArtWalk travels back in time to 1929 in this all female talent showcase set in a bizarre side show setting. Hosted by La Madame, wife of famed Robert Ripley, commissioned to find freaks for his sideshow throughout the world and tame them enough as to not attack and devour the events attendees, La Femme is a walk on the wild side. Professional makeup artists led by Yadira Moreno, create the freaks pre-performance with glamour and special effects prosthetics. The Show features Interactive games and prizes with live dj, burlesque, singer songwriters, hoola hoopers, aerialists, contortionists and female comediennes. La Femme Defonce, as been held sporadically over the past 7 years in downtown galleries and nightclubs including: Zero One, MJ Higgens, Club 720 and most recently, Ebano’s Crossing on Hill and 2nd. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm, May 14th.
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PG.12
LIVE PAINTING RITUALS SET FOR LIGHTENING IN A BOTTLE
“The Lucent Temple of Consciousness, in the heart of the festival, is the place to get inspired by world renown visionaries, wisdom keepers, master teachers, healers, activists, performers, and musicians. Absolutely everything The Temple offers is designed to activate your body, expand your mind, and open your heart.” - DO ART FOUNTATION
STORY AND PHOTOS - COURTESY OF LIGHTENINGINABOTTLE.ORG
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND At Lightning in a Bottle, you have a unique opportunity to stumble upon many experiences outside of the musical stages that are full of lively, participatory fun and shenanigans. The interactive areas at LIB truly allow you to lose yourself in an entire universe of play. From fully immersive environments to roving interactive stations and pop-up art car environments, be sure to take some time to stop by and drop into an entirely different world that will make your LIB experience unforgettable and uniquely yours. FEATURES OF THE FESTIVAL INCLUDE: The LIP ARTWALK is on Sunday from 7pm until Midnight in front of the Do Art Booth. This is the final opportunity to place your bids and take home your favorite piece of art or order prints to be shipped and sent to you or someone you love! Money from these sales goes directly to the artists, and supports the creation of public art programs. THE GRAND ARTIQUE For the 6th year in a row the Grand Artique will be back at Lightning in a Bottle, and this year they are aiming to go bigger than ever. Bringing back to life their town Frontierville, a fully immersive Trading Post/ General Store, and a heavy hitting line up to rip up their own Live Music Stage, the Grand Artique is one interactive area of LIB you don’t want to miss out on! Don’t forget to dig through your treasures and bring something to trade! See you at the Grand Artique!
LIGHTNING IN A PAINTCAN For the 9th year in a row Do Art Foundation, the public art non-profit of The Do LaB will be exhibiting works that will be inspired and created at the festival – transforming into incredible paintings over the course of the event. This year we will be auctioning canvases as well as pre-selling prints of the works so that everyone will have the opportunity to participate in taking artwork home – and hang to memorialize what will be the best festival year yet! Scattered throughout the festival grounds will be many of your favorite live painters, at the stages on showcase – creating their amazing artwork during your LIB experience. We will hold a silent auction of work on Sunday night at our famous LIP ARTWALK for those that want to take an original piece home. ART INSTALLATIONS Installation art is an integral part of the Lightning in a Bottle experience. We encourage you to take time out to explore, experience and gather inspiration from the installations, which range from smaller interactive pieces to larger-than-life sculptures and architectural pieces. ABOUT DO ART FOUNDATION As a vehicle for cultural, social, and civic development, Do Art serves the public, first and foremost, and aspires to improve and augment the overall quality of life of those individuals, communities, and neighborhoods it services. FMI: DOARTFOUNDATION.ORG
POMONA ARTWALK
Every month on the 2nd Saturday the Pomona Arts Colony brings big crowds to the streets. Over 3 dozen galleries host artist receptions for their latest exhibits. Many shops, studios and restaurants open late. There is no better way to get a feel for the lively community that hundreds of artists have built here. Experience the diverse array of top quality art work, ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography and more. It’s FREE. Bring your friends and family! Art Walk starts at 6pm. Come Early and Stay Late! Hours are from 6:00-9:00pm.
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www.artwalknews.com
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2 CULVER CITY 15 PAINTINGS BLUM + POE 5PM - 7PM
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5 CULVER CITY IN BLOOM MARC MOORE GALLERY 6PM - 9 PM
DTLA MUSE ON MAIN 5 STAR BAR 8PM - 1AM
6 LA ARTCORE WENDELL DAYTON BREWERY ANNEX 1PM - 10PM
7 SANTA MONICA INCOGNITO SANTA MONICA MUSEUM OF ART 11AM - 6PM
ART APPETITE LA 3RD & SPRING 3PM - 11PM
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DTLA UPROOTED STRATA PF KAUFMAN 7PM - 10PM
ART WALK SHUTTLE DT ARTWALK 6PM - 11PM
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12 ARTS DISTRICT ANGEL CITY BREWERY HERITAGE FEST 7PM - 11PM
EAST LA ARTWALK 2PM - 9PM ARTS21 DISTRICT
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LEIMERT PARK VILLAGE ART SCENE EVERY SUNDAY 22 - 10PM 12PM
25 ARTS DISTRICT MIRROR EFFECT THE BOX 6PM - 8PM
HOLLYWOOD WORLDS GREATEST TRIBUTE BANDS WHISKEY GOGO 6PM - 8PM
19 ARTS DISTRICT AUSTIN ERVING WILDING CRAN GALLERY 6PM - 9PM
26 BERGAMONT STATION LIVE TALK W/GREG LIES WILLIAM TURNER GALLERY 8PM - 10PM
EXPOSITION PARK DEAD SEA SCROLLS CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER 10PM - 5PM
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DTLA MILAGRO CHILENO HUMAN RESOURCES 7PM - 9PM
27 BERGAMOT STATION ANN CHAMBERLIN LORA SCHLESINGER GALLERY 5PM - 7PM
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DTLA WHO IS GIL SCOOT HERON? REGENT 8:30 - 12AM
LONG BEACH KORDA MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART 11AM - 5PM
22 DTLA EXPOSURE LA CITA BAR 8PM - 1AM
VENICE NEW CODAC SOCIAL AND PUBLIC ART RESOURCE CENTER 4PM - 8PM
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DTLA HECTOR BOURGES RED CAT 7PM - 9PM
MID WILSHIRE DRAWING IN LA 1960S - 1970S 11AM - 8PM
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29 MAY 31 PASADENA CYCLAVIA 9AM - 5PM
11 DTLA LINE ATTACK HIVE GALLERY 8PM - 11PM
DISH LATINO HOLA FESTIVAL LA LIVE 7PM - 11PM
LA FEMME DEFONCER EBANOS CROSSING
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DTLA BLACK PHOTOGRAPHERS IN LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 1PM - 3PM
SANTA MONICA 24 ANNUAL SANTA MONICA FEST 11AM - 6PM
16 DTLA HUEY P NEWTON GRAND PERFORMANCES 1:30PM - 4:30PM PASADENA VEGAN WINE AND FOOD FEST
23 DTLA IN FOCUS GETTY CENTER 10AM - 5:30PM
MID WILSHIRE ART AND OTHER TACTICS CRAFT AND FOLK ART MUSEUM 6PM - 9PM
MONTHLY ART WALKS 1ST THURSDAY - LAGUNA BEACH 1ST FRIDAY - ABBOTT KINNEY 1ST FRIDAY - LONG BEACH BIXBY 2ND THURSDAY - DT ARTWALK 2ND SATURDAY - POMONA/ NELA/LONG BEACH EAST SHORE 2ND SUNDAY - EAST LA ARTWALK LAST SUNDAY - LIEMERT PARK ARTWALK
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www.artwalknews.com
LA’S
JEAN BAPTISTE WINE ADVENTURER
Jean-Baptiste Dhalluin,
founder and CEO of Los Angeles Wine Tasting, did an outstanding job organizing and hosting the entire event, complete with fine Hollywood photography and stunning performances by Cabaret Versatile and Clever Vintage Clothing fashion show all remixed with jazzy electronic lounge that was pleasing to everyone’s senses. Having a huge passion for wines and spirits, Jean-Baptiste has worked in this industry for almost fifteen years, both in Europe and the United States. As a host of educational wine events, Je a n - B a p t i s t e is also a representative of a boutique wine distributor that targets high-end hotels, restaurants, wine bars and wine and gourmet stores in all of Southern California. In the words of Jean-Baptiste, “The world of wine is a great way to meet interesting people and you are now part of it… Cheers!!”
What is the most rewarding aspect about working in the wine industry? “Wine is very social and entertaining way to engage in a relaxed atmosphere and have fun exploring the human communications with people who share the sense of community that wine brings together. When I travel to France and other countries and visit sites, meet entertainment groups, I get inspired to create new events incorporating music, theatre and fashion that will bring a unique and memorable experience to our guests.” said Baptiste. “For every event I bring wines and
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spirits that are proper to the theme. For example, Femmes D’Hollywood guests enjoyed Piper-Heidsieck Chapmpagne because it was Marilyn’s favorite Champagne and the wines were reminiscent of old Hollywood era.” At the end of the evening, a portion of the auction proceeds were donated to help the Downtown Women’s Center, founded in 1978 it is the only non-profit organization in Los Angeles exclusively dedicated to addressing the needs of women overcoming poverty and homelessness in Skiddaw. The Downtown Women’s Center mission is to offer permanent supportive housing and a safe and healthy community fostering dignity, respect, and personal stability. In addition, Downtown Women’s Center happens to be one of the largest provid- ers of permanent supportive housing for women in the United States with ninety-five percent success rate. Finally, when asked about the next event for Los Angeles Wine Tasting, Jean-Baptiste replied. “May 16 will be our next event entitled “L’Experience Sensorielle” that will focus on the educational aspect of wine and more details are on the website. Our mission and philosophy is to educated people on wine and gourmet food delicacies, and help them navigate the world of wine with confidence, whether they are neophytes or already connoisseurs. These lifestyle events take place in a casual, interactive and fun atmosphere, providing opportunity for quality connections.” In order to dedicate more time and creativity for these lifestyle events, Jean-Baptiste had resigned from the wine sales job recently. FMI:LAWINETASTING.COM
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www.artwalknews.com
PG.17
HIGHLAND PARK
NELA GALLERY NIGHT Every Second Saturday ushers a self-guided tour of this gallery, non-profit and artists run evening event located in Highland Park. Northeast Los Angeles (NELA) is dedicated to increase the visibility of its thriving arts community and has a long tradition in the arts. Many working artists now continue this tradition by making their homes and having their studios here. The neighborhood is also home to many galleries, alternative arts spaces and arts organizations. NELAart provides a resource to share information and ideas, and assist in promoting galleries and organizations. Please join in celebrating the arts in Northeast Los Angeles.
Why We Have Love
MONTEBELLO
ARTISTS BREW AT THE MONTEBELLO ARTWALK The next Montebello Artwalk event, “Artist Brew”, is on Saturday, May 16th. The Montebello Art Walk is run by ArtwalkMTB, a non-profit organization created by local artists from the city of Montebello and other neighboring cities. Keeping the art culture alive by raising awareness and bringing the community together through the arts, the Montebello Art Walk host, independent artists, live bands and food vendors outdoors with local business support. The location is held adjacent to The Daily Brew Coffee Bar at 137 Montebello Blvd. 6pm to 9pm.
for artwalks
CREATION: Everyone in the world
is on a quest to experience the most from the universe and all things in it. Each day we embark on a perpetual path to collect those experiences in hopes that we can eventually lend them to our long list of life fulfilling moments. What will you watch and comprehend today? What will you eat? What music will you listen to? Who will you touch? Will you discover something new? And what will be the end all be all?
A discovery of Self: ART WALK is Sight, Sound, Taste and Excitement. ART: the conscious use of the imagination in the production of objects intended to be contemplated or appreciated while at the same instance being totally subjective in a person’s mind rather than the external world. What ever you want it to be - voila it is, and pretty much means, anything goes, but also, that it’s not to be rushed or easily forgotten.
WALK: to go on foot
Gallery exhibits, fashion shows, live music, local eateries, and mobile popups create individual artistic-interactive vis-
itor hubs, turning the entire region into one festive party which purifies the spirit of the neighborhood and lends to the stimulation of the local economy.
So many different people from all ethnic backgrounds, young and old have no trouble bonding with the energy of the night and over all feeling of being united under aesthetics. For artists, the night proves just as profitable as collectors are everywhere during an Art Walk. While some may be well versed in the arts, its likely the Art Walk will help mold plenty of future collectors as well.
Independent artists at art parks and pop
ups may sell art for less than hundreds of dollars while galleries with well represented artists, who are supported by their collectors, may go skies the limit.
Collectors may be the for pleasure or exercise; type that collect a particduring an ART WALK ular style such as photogis like taking a stroll on raphy or abstract, or just the Avenue of Creative attached to a particular Expression, mixing and artist. There may be buymingling with artists and City er lv u C ers seeking to redecorate , ry le astanier Gal curators indoors or strutthe office, or loft, or that RERO at C tin’ your stuff outdoors in impulse buyer who finalhigh fashion with hundreds ly got exposed to a place in their mind they sometimes thousands of your fellow open- thought they would never know. These are night-air explorers. the types of thought provoking pieces you can purchase at Art Walks.
Dozens of participating businesses
keep a rotation of artists, creative installations, and product specials ready in conjunction with the night, either working together or independently to create a memorable experience for thousands of purposely-timed ART WALK visitors.
At Art Walk, the artists and art institutions are ultimately given highlights as art stays the main focus of the night’s festivities. Art Walk is an exploration into the 5 senses; sight, touch, taste, feel, smell and sound.
Bottom line__ its good for the soul.
TAURUS: with Mercury in Retrograde the outPG.18 APRL 20www.artwalknews.com – MAY 20 comes to any rash decisions can have a
FIGHTASCOPE “Rhythm is everything in boxing. Every move you make starts with your heart, and that’s in rhythm or you’re in trouble.” – SUGAR RAY ROBINSON With a Full Moon coming to your house of relationships on the 3rd, it’s all about balancing your projects with your love life. Mercury’s retrograde on the 18th, will make your progress feel a bit “two steps forward, three steps back”, but as frustrating as it may seem try not to take that frustration out on your significant other. You don’t want to end up like Sugar Ray Robinson (May 3, 1921 – April 12, 1989) frequently cited as the greatest boxer of all time who once went on a 91 fight unbeaten winning streak but still ende=d up 0 and 3 with the ladies. GEMINI: MAY 21 – JUN 20 “I am not going to become crazy in the ring, because I am already crazy. And I am not going to die in the ring. I am going to die in bed as an old man.” – Manos De Piedra ROBERTO DURAN Mercury in retrograde on the 18th will hit you harder than the other signs dear Gemini, making this month at true test of your endurance. Like Roberto Duran, (Born June 16, 1951) the versatile Panamanian boxer who earned 104 wins with 69 KOs and you’ll need to pay close attention to your mental health in hopes to keep your projects from becoming chaotic or confusing. The calmer you stay the more focus you will become leading you to an inevitable victory no matter challenges your project may face. CANCER: JUN 12 – JUL 22 “Everyone has a plan ’till they get punched in the mouth.” – Iron MIKE TYSON Although new ideas may seem like the right thing to do at the time dear cancer, keep in mind that
stunning effect on loosely planned projects. Remember, to think back to see how far you’ve come and use your past to make solid moves towards plans the future. Like Mike Tyson, (born June 30, 1966) known for having one of the greatest knock out punches of all time, you’re seen as fearless and unbeatable with plenty of collectors in your corner. Just be careful to limit your emotions and fits as not to become your own worst foe. LEO: JUL 23 – AUG 22 “Tired? I don’t think so. I’m in such good shape that I could box even 25 rounds.” Iron Fist - VITALI KLITSCHKO Like Vitali Klitschko (born July 19, 1971) who began his career as a boxer in the Ukraine later to become Mayor of Kiev you don’t know what it’s like to be knocked off you feet. With the Full moon on the 3rd, family will be most important and your refusal to get into unnecessary matches that may lead to drama with kinfolk. Even with Mercury in Retrograde this month, you know you have the determination and durability to be a powerful influence on your collectors so just keep pushing forward and you will find there are no limits to what you can do. VIRGO: AUG 23 – SEP 22 “Why waltz with a guy for 10 rounds if you can knock him out in one?” The Raging Bull - ROCKY MARCIANO Yeah, with Mercury in retrograde for the second time this year there is going to be some rage. Like Raging Bull’s Rocky Marciano (September 1, 1923 – August 31, 1969) however, you aren’t afraid of turmoil and invite it only so you can test your own particular set of artistic skills. Marciano is the only World Champ never to have his belt taken by an opponent and like him not only does completing your projects in a timely manner ease your pains, you know by doing so you’ll have plenty of time for relaxation once the project is done.
LIBRA: SEPT 23 – OCT 22 “It is not the size of a man but the size of his heart that matters.” The Real Deal - EVANDER HOLYFIELD With the full moon on the 3rd and Mercury in retrograde you can guarantee your going feel like opponents are trying to nibble away at your very foundation, but don’t worry dear Libra, this feeling will pass. Like Evander Holyfield (born October 19, 1962) the only four-time Heavyweight Champion of the World, you’re going to feel very emotional about your projects this month and that’s a good thing, the more heart you put into your works the harder you can hit your collectors where they’d least expect it… the imagination. SCORPIO: OCT 23 – NOV 21 “I’m like the drunk in the bar who wants just one more for the road.” The Old Mongoose – ARCHIBALD MOORE May is going to be very busy but you will still have to fight the tendency to want to over do it. The Full moon on the 3rd may make it hard to slow down, and there will be no way to put a cap on your imagination as the New Moon will have you grounded in Taurus. Like Archibald Moore (December 13, 1916 – December 9, 1998) who once trained using trucks and ladders you will be able to pull from unconventional recourses giving your projects the added edge to attract a whole new breed of collectors. CAPRICORN: DEC 22 – JAN 19 “The Service you do for others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” – The Greatest MOHAMMED ALI Like Muhammad Ali (born January 17, 1942) you know your self-worth and always available to do the world a great service. You’re not afraid to stand up for what you believe in and quick to take over the conversation, which makes selling yourself and your works easy this month despite Mercury retrogrades ability to tie your tongue at the precise moment you have something profound to say about your inspirations.
AQUARIUS: JAN 20 – FEB 18 “There is always space for improvement.”
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The Golden Boy - OSCAR DE LAYOLA Looking good Aquarius as this month’s full moon has you stepping out with confidence and style. Like Oscar De La Hoya (born February 4, 1973) not only are you talented but you have a keen business mind and award winning creative nature. The Full moon will remind you how important it is not to take anything for granted and Mercury in retrograde will have you analyzing your art projects to single out flaws in an honest attempt to make yourself and your work better.
PISCES: FEB 19 – MAR 20 “Most people should be talking about how I work extremely hard to get to where I’m at. Instead, all you hear is hate and jealous remarks from critics.” Pretty Boy - FLOYD MAYWEATHER May is all about communication, dear Pieces but that could be a double-edged sword. No matter what you accomplish, if you don’t communicate the right way, you’ll find yourself surrounded by people who think you no longer need their support. Like Floyd Mayweather, (born February 24, 1977) undefeated Welterweight Champion of the World, many may think you are just bragging, but rest assured you have the artistic skills to back up your words. Just try to be humble in your wording so others can see you more for what you have accomplished. ARIES:
MAR 21 – APR 19
“Don’t let your dreams be your dreams” - The Galveston Giant - JACK JOHNSON This month will have you pondering a long vacation or fabulous trip of some kind. Like Jack Johnson (March 31, 1878 - June 10, 1946), whose mother was the first in history to send her son back into the fight until he came home a winner, you will need to use all your energetic a this energy to help boost your confidence. in search of new collectors and artistic adventure.
BREAKING THE DOWNTOWN ARWALK Indie Artists: the Glue That Helps Keep DT ARTWALK Together Editorial by Art Hunter
Last month, during the peak hours of the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK, the Historic BID Patrol (HDBID) forced at least 20 independent artists off a section of Spring Street. According to artist, Martin Anaya, who makes hand-lettered signs, the artists were told the dimly lit, non-operational and seemingly lifeless building they had set up in front of, for the past two years, had requested the neighborhood street patrol force them to pack up and move, and later remained as an active deterrent for the remainder of the Art Walk making sure no other artists could set up. For the first time in DOWNTOWN ARTWALK history, instead of celebrating one night of creativity for the hundreds of artists who flock to Downtown, artists were forced to break down their side walk set ups, (some of which had been there as early as 9am), in hopes to make the “record breaking sales” independent artisans have been used to making as they’ve supported and promoted the night’s event for the past 10 years. To add insult to injury, the past 3 years has seen the closure of over 20 local galleries in the original Art Walk perimeter. Add the closure of numerous indie pop-up markets; ART MART at the Alexandria, the Merchandile Lofts, Billys Cafe, Art Walk at Batchelder’s, Art Theme Park, I ART YOU at the Medallion, ART SQUARE, Truck It Fest, and what’s left? A 1000 sq. ft. ART WALK LOUNGE with one or two artists features, and LA THEATER’s recent indie rejuvenation.
There are now roughly about 12 galleries inside the original art walk perimeter, 7 of which in some way sponsored, coordinated or endorsed, by the Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk non-profit stakeholders. WHAT’S IN A NAME? Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk does not equal the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK. Can you tell which is which? Neither can most people. One is an event started around 2004 by artists, indie event coordinators and local galleries, the other is a non-profit started in 2011 with $200,000 in yearly earnings to contain and maintain their non-profit entity, which throws public and private events only they themselves coordinate during the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK. The Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk is a non-profit, which list the HDBID on their website as one of their main sponsors. The non-profit, who’s mission statement reads, “a non-profit 501c3 that provides monthly showcases celebrating the best galleries, artists, photography, restaurants, bars, and shops and businesses located in Downtown Los Angeles.” no where states the non-profit being responsible for every attendee or indie artists, or the event itself, or it’s clean up fee, or settlements sought for anyone else who may participate outside of their own endeavors during the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK.
Yet, in a continuing effort, with local media support, to brand their name as the Official and only, DOWNTOWN ART WALK organizers, the non-profit has been for the past three years doing nothing short of what this read would call “friendly bullying” of members of the community, local businesses, independent artists and outside event coordinators who have supported the DOWNTOWN ART WALK for years; many of which have been suddenly cited or shut down while making honest attempts in support of the arts during the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK. If the Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk non-profit happens to stumble upon any event coordinator using the words, “Downtown ArtWalk” to market an event during the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK, they’re sure to get a friendly yet stern letter of concern from the non-profit stating that others may be getting their event “misconstrued as a program that is presented/endorsed by the Official Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk.” That’s the same as starting a business and naming it CHRISTMAS and telling every one who wanted to celebrate on the 25th, they can no longer use the name CHRISTMAS when inviting friends and family over for ______ dinner, or even when describing CHRISTMAS, during the holiday season. No more “Christmas” music, it’s just “music” now, no more gifts, no more jolly, no more elves, no more eggnog!
And how do they pick and choose who gets their endorsement? Out of 100s of artists and event coordinators that frequent the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK, only a few familiar names and locations are mentioned in the their event programs or on their social media month-after month-after-month. But there are hundreds of artists and coordinators hanging on, being ignored or condemned for participating in one way or another, and last month’s gentrification of the indie artists was just one of them. What was once a booming indie arts economy of over 1000 artists, with almost every local business eager to participate in the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK, IN JUST 3 YEARS has become “just another Thursday night” to many locals. Yet still voices of enthusiasm for what the night is meant for, ring out on a daily basis on the streets of DT. Indie artists still flock to the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK in an attempt to feed their families. Even though the crowd’s in smaller numbers, art lovers still migrate to the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK to find and support them. The Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk non-profit does throw interesting and informative exhibits with style and grace, and has a team dedicated to the survival of their own endeavors. But if they ever act in wonder or express fears about what the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK has become, well then that’s the case for Scooby Doo, because the DOWNTOWN ART WALK is more than just their own endeavors and ambitions. It’s the ambitions of thousands of inspired youth of all ethnic backgrounds coming to explore what downtown has to offer. They are the future and they want to celebrate and shine. The Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk nonprofit aren’t the only ones dedicated to the night’s event, nor should they be. Art is subjective, colorful, thought provoking, liberating, emotional, but if only one person paints, then eventually all the paintings are going to turn out the exact same. Colors are going to be left out. Only one buyer will show up and the event will die. While other art walks springing up across the nation are inviting and encouraging local businesses and indie artists it’s time for the DOWNTOWN ARTWALK to take back its title as being the most diverse, most entertaining, and best Downtown Los Angeles event in support the artistically gifted, not just the economically secure.