`
`
CONTENT CONTENT CONTENT
MUSIC EDITOR’S BLESSING TRAVEL DIARY: SEATTLE KURT’S HOUSE/ JIMI’S GRAVE THE EXPERIENCE MUSIC PROJECT BUMBERSHOOT FESTIVAL GUS AND SCOUT THE BEAT CONNECTION REVIEW: THE PINK DOOR THE AQUADOLLS ROLLER GRRLS YOU ARE NOT HARDCORE: MITCH CLEM COMIC: THE WOODS PUMP UP POSTER NANA WILLIS STEVE GIRAD: BAD MC BANDITOS MYSTERIOSOS EDITOR’S RANT BACK TO BASICS WITH THE CHINA STEPS EMPORIUM UNCULTUREDMAG.COM
4 7 7 8 10 11 12 13 15 19 21 23 25 26 27 29 31 33 36
`
STAFF STAFF STAFF
KAT WAWRYKOW: Editor-In-Chief MEREDITH PARK: Editorial Director MADDIE DENNIS: Editorial Director MAGDALENA WOLAN: Head Illustrator BRANDEE WYSE: Head Videographer JENNA BENTZEN: Music Editor ERICA CHAPMAN: Fashion Editor KIRSTYN ROGERS: Contributing Photographer
cover image photographed by kat wawrykow and designed by brandee wyse. magazine design by kat wawrykow and maddie dennis. comics by meredith park, maddie dennis and mitch clem. additional photography by kat wawrykow and jenna bentzen. caboose illustration by marena skinner. web sponsor anita roy. seattle trip coordinator natasha wawrykow. all uncultured related content is copyrighted, all rights reserved.
*** in respect for the current residents, we will not be disclosing the address of kurt cobain’s former home or the park which it overlooks. After much pre-trip research, we are aware that the neighborhood has endured many bus loads of dedicated fans who are brought on the daily, causing much disturbance to everyday life. We hope that our detailed account provides you with satisfying first-hand information and you respect the desire of the neighborhood to reframe from excessive visitation. ***
`
MISSION STATEMENT
UNCULTURED MAGAZINE
TO BRING YOU honest quality literature, written with passionate soul, driven to inspire a zealous lifestyle. to encourage and motivate a generation built on a foundation of ‘organic-humanity’ thinking: one who believes in love, faith, real people, the simple beauties of life, a global family and the sui generis of every person’s soul. and to widen your mind with potential, creativity, knowledge and ideas made possible by utilizing the full spectrum of art.
JOHN 3:16
`
I HEREBY BLESS THIS ISSUE WRITTEN BY JENNA BENTZEN
Community and music. Music and community. Interconnectivity. The idea of community is a robust, ever-expanding concept. There are many groupings appealing to different interests that help define us as a global community. I think the meaning of a 'global community' is often forgotten, or has changed its direction over the course of history. But we can always return to the basics with an effective influence. It communicates more than we ever could in the most powerful ways. This influence is music, and it's been a part of our communities since day one. As we have evolved and changed over time as a species, music has been our partner, traveling alongside us, documenting our journey. In times of struggle, angst, poverty, and bliss, music arose to become a voice for every generation. One of the most prominent progressions within a generation was the punk movement. Tossing aside petty cliches, the punk movement holds some of the wisest, noble and life-changing advice to ever grace the planet. How, you may ask? The punk movement was the only time in history a population of like-minded people banded together through music in utter defiance of the mainstream means of life. Sure, there was the hippie movement, the Beat generation. These movements are influential in their own right, but none have been in such a raw form as punk. The kinetic, raw energy deriving from punk music is enough to move mountains. Firsthand, I know the feeling of having your soul lifted into an ethereal place from a live show. This feeling to one person alone is incredibly powerful and gratifying. If you can apply that to hundreds, even thousands of people in a given space I am sure you can imagine the inexplicable forces at hand. This energy, this raw, grassroots union of a people is
what is will change our world. It has changed our world. When a population is set on fire with an idea, fueled by lucid passion, they are unstoppable. Nirvana still is the perfect "poster child" for the punk movement because of their attitude. They were an amazing band, with a defining mindset for generations to come. As much as it burns my insides to see their image becoming a corporate selling point, at least they are not forgotten. My hope and faith is that those being influenced by such marketing campaigns of take time to listen to the words and instruments; because I have confidence our global population is growing restless. I have confidence that this music can move people into action again. There's fire in our bellies and there's only so much muffling we can do.
"Punk is musical freedom. It's saying, doing and playing what you want. In Webster's terms, 'nirvana' means freedom from pain, suffering and the external world, and that's pretty close to my definition of Punk Rock." the man himself. So I hereby give this issue my musical blessing. It touches upon the events that matter; what makes us whole, and what makes us diverse as a species. I encourage you to delve into the music culture. I encourage you to participate in this partnership to create a divine movement of your own. And if you buy a Nirvana t-shirt, for the love of mercy let's hope you've listened to Bleach first.
`
Travel Diary:
Seattle
written by kat wawrykow photography by kirstyn rogers illustration by magdalena wolan
As many of you know, Seattle is one of the great cities. Birthplace of Grunge, home to some of the coolest establishments in the world and of course, Bumbershoot Music Festival.
day 1: You could say that we were off to a good start to the weekend. It was a balmy but breezy Friday afternoon and our team was driving through what I call, ‘The Beverly Hills of Seattle’ in our search for Kurt Cobain’s former house. This house, in which he shared with his daughter and wife Courtney, is where he ended his life. The home in which we searched for overlooked a small and almost secret park, which Kurt frequented often. My GPS hadn’t failed us yet while on our trip to America, but after looping wildly through the nearly vertical streets I began to lose hope. But at last we made it to the famed park, and I instantly knew why he never wanted to stray from it. It is said that Kurt often walked through the small hillside park and sat upon the bench in contemplation and for inspiration. The park wasn’t grand, it was personal.
From the extra long, brown stained bench, one overlooks the beautiful Lake Washington. It was almost eerie knowing you shared the seat of someone you had never known, but understood too well. The dirt below my feet felt far away, and the breeze licked my shoulders as it rolled off the lake; this place felt like home. Today the bench is adorned in memorial graffiti like “I hope your soul somehow lives on somewhere” “Rest in Peace” and “It Smells Like Teen Spirit Here” written in ink and white out. In some ways it was typical, but it grounds you in who his audience was and is: the imperfect youth. Looking to the left, you can see Kurt’s house peaking from the tops of the trees. It is a brown cedar planked house with white trims, only steps away. Looking at the windows, one can’t help but feel sorry for the current residents as there hangs large signs announcing deluxe alarm systems. (You wonder how many break-ins a place like this has endured.)
drive to seattle kurt cobain’s house jimi hendrix’s grave This place doesn’t seem unreachable. Although it is clearly an affluent area, it doesn’t truly feel like a place that someone of grand fame and wealth would live - but perhaps it is because there is currently no need for high security eccentricities here. It reminds me of how Kurt was very much a regular person, nothing like the fantastical celebrities of our current day. The park homes many al groves and stumps, and as we prance and poke around I am flooded of memories of Jenna, and I can’t help but to compare her and Kurt’s likeness. I can see how much they are one in the same - being constantly goofy, almost inappropriate at times. Sticking out tongues, not giving a rat’s ass, it was raw and a little bit dirty. They are not always clean or always gorgeous, but the heart they share is unmatchable. I was hit with a sense of pleasure in knowing that I could relate to a real human being that wasn’t coached or trained into fitting a public image or target market. In short, our time here was a gift and already Seattle had won my heart.
After a `brief Starbucks refreshment we were back on the road to pay tribute at to the Jimi Hendrix Memorial. The Jimi Hendrix Memorial is situated in Greenwood Memorial Park, in the town of Renton. The large and beautiful park that houses this memorial is a place of peace and comfort. It took us several minutes to walk the long path to the large stone canopy that was Hendrix’s memorial (just to give you a picture of how large the park truly is.) The memorial held wonderful stone etchings of the guitarist, as well as lyrics of some of his most memorable songs. You could see the presence of his fans, with fresh flowers and recent lipstick stains on the etchings. (Although I have to admit it was slightly alarming to see young girls kiss the gravestone of someone they didn’t know personally. Or at all really.
day 2:
I mean its a gravestone.) There was remnants of some strange tributes too, like a clown wig intertwined experience music project with a bouquet and card. I bumbershoot festival wondered what weathering would the pink door do to such memorabilia. As we circled the memorial we were As Bumbershoot Music Festival warmed to see that the Hendrix family had created this space for fans took over Seattle Center and the surrounding grounds, next door at and loved ones to celebrate the EMP, the UNCULTURED Hendrix’s life as well as various team was welcomed inside to take other members of the Hendrix a look around the splendid family. I felt happy to be here, it exhibits. The EMP, otherwise wasn’t a morose setting as many known as the Experience Music cemeteries are, but a place to Project, is a Non-Profit museum appreciate the great body of work which is dedicated to the Hendrix produced as well as having promotion, understanding, a calming place for reflection. engagement and empowerment of music and popular culture. Located in the heart of Seattle, for years it has been a place where multigenerational audiences can experience and interact with its exhibitions, education programs, and collections.
`
Whether it be fate or merely coincidence, we were pleasantly surprised to find the featured musical exhibits to be Hear My Train Comin’: Hendrix Hits London and Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses.
Hear My Train Comin’: Hendrix Hits London was an extensive look into the beginnings of Jimi Hendrix’s fame. While an American, Hendrix was brought to London, England by Chas Chandler, formally of The Animals. While back in America, the Rolling Stone’s managers Andrew Loog Oldham and Seymour Stein were not convinced of Hendrix’s talent, but Chandler felt differently. He was convinced that if Hendrix was willing to cross the Atlantic, London would make him a star. Hendrix finally agreed and The Jimi Hendrix Experience assembled, playing extensively around the city. After the success of “Purple Haze” and various other UK chart toppers, Are You Experienced, the full length LP was released in May of 1967. After spending 33 weeks on the charts, it was said that The Jimi Hendrix Experience had “shook the world.” After a guitarburning performance at Montery International Pop Festival, The Jimi Hendrix Experience was officially welcomed into the USA. The exhibit brought Jimi’s world to life with the flamboyant fashions worn by Hendrix himself, memorabilia from famed performances, and short documentaries featuring recordings of Hendrix’s killer talent as well as snippets of interviews. Feeling the fabric walls, reading the shorts and experiencing the media surrounding Hendrix I felt the inherited excitement in the rise of his success as we walked through his life.The EMP does a wonderful job of mixing history, fact and getting you personalized with the people behind the sound. Sadly, the exhibit was so good it only made me
Meanwhile, Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses took me back to a place that I only wish I remembered more clearly. This was an exhibit that hit me deeply as Nirvana’s music and contributions to grunge ideology happen to be so dear to my heart. Entering the exhibit made me giddy as I saw many symbols and pieces that I had only seen fragmentally over the course of growing up. The original In Utero mannequin was suspended above me, Kurt’s famed beige cardigan hung at my side and his most memorable, smashed, hand-painted green guitar, rotated before my eyes. I was overwhelmed with backstories and behind-the-scenes information about their lives, narrated all the while by Kurt’s journal entries. It was both terribly exciting to touch the tour cases and strange to think that these things are now only memories, but in reality it was lived only a few yesterdays ago. The EMP used the Nirvana exhibit to dive into the ideology of punk (and grunge) music, and highlighted various bands that played important roles in the movement. I was thrilled to see Bratmobile highlighted and praised for their powerful displays of feminism and opinion. Short documentaries explained how these bands added to a collective empowerment of regular people, encouraging a generation to put together shitty garage bands and speak for themselves. They provided a network of honesty that everyday people could relate and reach out to. They sung about the pains that we all an find within ourselves, and made waves that many of today’s great artists look up to.
It was particularly interesting how pop culture was exposed and dictated by the music itself. It was the first time that not following the rules was tolerated, it had to be because the masses were drunk with the newfound power they found within themselves and their new idols and how their voice could be and would be heard everywhere. By supporting local bands like Nirvana, people realized that with their success it meant that they could do anything too. What stuck with me was the elegance of an era not run by the media, but by the people. It is uplifting and hopeful because It has been done and can be done again. I left the EMP feeling privileged and excited about why I was here in Seattle. I came here wanting to be a part of a change in our media and the world at large. I want to see a new focus on the global community and a capitalization on truth and real people like you and me. The EMP is a place that inspires, encourages and redeems dreams. Poking through the science fiction exhibits and the Strong Females of Music exhibit, I didn’t find one disappointment. I want to thank the Experience Music Project for having us, please continue enchanting people’s hearts with the power of music.
`
favorite stages: tunein and fountain favorite sets: diamond rings, the mowgli’s, fun., death cab for cutie, and washed out favorite vendor: brynne at lebanese food Bumbershoot Festival, otherwise known as ‘Art in the Great Northleft’ is perfect. The music and arts festival coined its name in 1973; the term ‘Bumbershoot’ describing the umbrella which houses various arts and musical performances. This last August the UNCULTURED team was overwhelmed with the stellar performances, raw energy from festival goers, and good company among vendors and press alike. The festival grounds surround and encompass Seattle Center, with numerous outdoor stages, indoor comedy and art series as well as a massive artists market. Because the festival was so jammed packed we will run through the highlights with you and dive into interviews with two of our favorite acts.
favorite art series: enigma machine (a wicked collection of machines creating live art! curated by shelly learens) rudest band we met: the grizzled mighty the band that stole our heart: gus + scout people worth a shout out: johannah and barbara, natasha, and that guy who was working the ‘to write love on her arms’ booth, you were a treat.
I say this respectfully, but while the Grizzled Mighty’s set was so killer, I don’t feel like writing about our interview because I walked away conflicted. Both my photographer and I felt snubbed during our time with drummer Whitney and guitarist Ryan, who definitely lived up to their ‘F-U’ attitude. But as their manager defended, we apparently just ‘didn’t understand their humor’. That being said, I must say that they certainly made some grace with their sound. The crowd went wild for them and with good reason. The Grizzled Mighty has a sound that has been branded as motley mix of The White Stripes and The Black Keys (Magic Potion era), a label they respectfully wish to shed. As Ryan and Whitney destroyed the stage with riot-like confidence and angry liquid courage (for which unfortunately the Stage Manager had to suffer through pre-set), their music exploded with excitement and adrenaline. By the time the set was over, I had to sit down, for I was blown away by the shrill beats and punches a raw and ready garage rock band is good for. The Grizzled Mighty has been blowing fuses all over Seattle, and soon the rest of the world. Until then I hope they acquire a bit more humility.
Gus + Scout `
Gus + Scout are an amazing story of fate and fortune. Scout Willis and Gus Wenner grew up on the same street, lost touch over the years, and then reconnected on the first day of school at Brown University. While both studied Creative Writing, the duo decided to team up for an independent school music project under the name Gus + Scout. Things easily melted into a fairytale from there on and today both are seated comfortably in front of me, talking to me about the romantic transition from college students to full time musicians. how did you know gus + scout were more than just a school project? GUS: When we wrote “Gone, Gone, Gone”, I kind of realized it could be something I could invest my life into, [and with] all my creative energies. SCOUT: We had this little show at Brown, we played “Silver Wings” by Merle Haggard. It was our first time playing together, it grew from there. I finally found my musical partner in crime. G: It is one thing to meet someone who sings really well, or who can make something sound good, but it’s another to find someone you can write with creativity. I think that is really rare. what was your inspiration behind ‘gone gone gone’? S: We wanted kind of a soul song, something that spoke to people, that was broad enough to cover people’s own experiences with heartbreak and love. But we wrote it from the heart, because really you can only write what you know. G: That one was specific [to something] that happened to me. When I brought the first couple lines to Scout there was this sort of synergy that happened where she said, ‘I know exactly how you feel.’ S: I also drew inspiration from what I grew up listening to. [Like] Etta James, we wanted to do something big and rich. And Johnny and June too. That kind of back and forth. It became a patchwork of all of our different influences.
how can young people relate to your music? S: We are just two young kids who just graduated. We want to make the kind of music we want to hear, I think that it can seem in this music climate that you have to have this big image and big show. And we just want to stay true to who we are. We’re playing this kind of music because we love it, it speak to us. The fact that it speaks to other people is so inspiring. who inspires you? S: Lately, I have been listening to a lot of Patsy Cline. UNCULTURED: You can’t help but fall in love right? S: *Sighs*, I’ve been listening to “She’s Got You”, and every time I listen to it, I find myself in it - with the heartbreak, every time. I’ve also been listening to Willy Nelson a lot, his writing ability is so simple, but he can say so much. G: I’ve been listening to that song by Paul McCartney, “Let Me Roll It”, which is incredible. And then I’ve also been listening to that Cold Fact record from Rodriguez, he’s got that movie, “Searching for Sugar Man”. He’s also got this one song called “Cause” that [talks about the] pains of growing up in Detroit and what a fucked place it is. That level of honesty is rare to come by. what has changed for you, musically? S: We used to get tripped up by the size of the crowd, but it was when we played [at the Berkley School of Music] that we realized we were just playing for us. It could have been one person in the room or a packed room, [it wouldn’t have mattered]. We’ve tried to keep that coming ever since. That fact that there are were so people [at today’s show - Bumbershoot] was fucking incredible.
`
quick five with the beat connection where did you meet: university of washington and we met tom at a heat warmer show.
how was your day today? S: The security guard told me I made his day. That was overwhelming. what’s moving you right now? S: I just graduated, so I knew when I finished school that I could do this full-time and give [it] all my energy 100%. So music is moving me right now. You know? That’s what I want to focus on, I want to become a better musician, and a better singer. I want to learn how to play the guitar, so Gus doesn’t have to do all the work. *laughs* G: Learning how to be an adult, and take responsibility. what’s next for GUS + SCOUT? G: Just to write as much as we can. And record a full length [album]when we are ready. Scout’s voice is a sultry mix of Country and raspy Folk, with a dark twist. Coupled with the talents of Gus, the duo is still very much in their raw beginnings. This is why I love their sound; it’s an imperfect beauty that is so special and heartfelt. Their lyrics are well written and the instrumentals well placed. Their work is completely their own, bringing to the table something I can truly say I haven’t heard before. I also applaud their genuine drive to make real music for real people, and leave the bullshit at the door. Meeting them solidified my assumption that despite having to prove themselves ‘worthy’ to cynical critics (didn’t you recognize their names?), these are folks that deserve your attention solely on themselves alone. Their debut album is one that I am yearning for, and I suspect you will too after listening to such tracks like, “Gone, Gone, Gone” and “Don’t Bother You Much”. Keep living up to your heart and harmony Gus + Scout, we believe in you.
describe your sound: we fall back on electronic pop dance. what was the musical transition into ‘palace garden’: the band started out as duo, and we put out surf noir just for fun. then we invited jared to play drums and tom sang on the ep. we didn’t know how to play music then, when we performed it was like an augmentative dj set. that’s when we knew we had to get a drummer and tom onboard for good. why do you like music: we all have a detached view of culture. we are trying to interpret that in a kitchy way. it’s that one night, just hanging out at some party. it should be something that everyone can get into - feel good sound. what’s next: we don’t want to cut corners, we want to keep doing music in a way we can be proud of and see where it goes.
`
There is no way to glorify this restaurant enough `
day 2: cont.
an extremely blissful review of the pink door written and sampled by kat wawrykow
! What I’d have you believe is that this establishment changed my life. This isn’t a restaurant, well I suppose it is, but it is really a showroom of arts unorthodox which glorifies the act of eating a meal. Ladies and gentlemen I introduce you Jacquelina Di Roberto’s creation, The Pink Door. The Pink Door houses a heavenly kitchen that serves its guests with service fit for kings and queens. The Pink Door believes in giving you an experience while you’e eating, and therefore forewarned us that we would get to enjoy a variety of unusual entertainment. So what does ‘unusual’ look like you might ask? It means that while you sample their famous antipasto plate and dive into devilishly good pastas, you are witnesses to trapeze artists swinging gracefully overhead. Yes, you read that correctly, this place has the nerve to give literal meaning to the phrase “dinner and a show”. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a gorgeous group who claimed to be our waiters and waitresses. Their friendly demeanor turned into easy laughter and we were quickly romanced by the charm of the entire place. The Pink Door is a true operation held together by a passionate love for food, excellence service and unexpected surprises. The gothic but elegant atmosphere owner Jacqueline has created in the surfaces and walls of the restaurant is saturated with curios and a means for conversation in itself. If you live in Seattle and haven’t heard of The Pink Door, don’t be too embarrassed. For years Jacquelina has kept her beloved place one of Seattle’s best kept secrets, but curiously it always happens to be packed. With only a pink door to signal its existence, a passerby may never know that down the steps await three floors (a gorgeous hidden terrace, the main dining room and the lounge) of mystery and wonder. It is only now that she has agreed to let UNCULTURED spread the much needed word about the Pink Door and turn their standing room only Burlesque performances into permanently sold out events. Wait did I say burlesque? I guess the cat is out of the bag. In the lounge, fans line up once a week for hours to get a seat to one of the most unique events in Seattle - a quirky and comical slant on Burlesque. It was certainly a blessing (and a curse) to have front row seats to one of the strangest performances I’ve ever seen. As if this experience couldn’t have been any more fabulous, we were delighted by their infamous ‘Booby Cake’ desert. (Named in celebration of all things Burlesque in which I couldn’t help but to devour and come back for the following evening.) If you are not packing your bags and heading for The Pink Door immediately, you must be suffering a terrible illness, or feel the need to finish this review to properly prepare yourself for the best meal and entertainment of your life. But why am I really raving like a mad person over this restaurant? It is simply because the Pink Door proved to me that eating is not a chore or a hobby, but an art form. One that demands to be accompanied by friends and family in a comfortable surrounding, sprinkled with surprise. The UNCULTURED team left with not enough words to express how blessed we were to have had this experience and felt moved to write an article to brag about it to the rest of the world. Mission accomplished.
Aqua `
Written By Kat Wawrykow, Jenna Bentzen Photography By Brandee Wyse
adolls `
IF THERE IS one group you need to know, its the ` The Aquadolls are a surf-psych dream team Aquadolls. fronted by nineteen year old Melissa Brooks. Listening to their tracks makes you melt into a dreamy haze reminiscing of good times and empty pizza boxes. Jenna and I had the pleasure of chatting up Melissa and guitarist Ryan about why their sound simply rocks. From the get-go it was clear to us that these were folks of good breading - talking armpit hair, nipples, and Feminism. Fair warning, this interview gets off kilter real fast. UNCULTURED: Who are you and what do you do? MELISSA: “My name is Melissa, and I am a full time musician and rockaholic.”
U: What inspires your sound? M: “I’m inspired by the 90’s Girl Power/Riot Grrrl movement. I think it’s important as a woman to make music because a lot of bands are male fronted. I think it’s a total step forward to be like, ‘I am Woman hear me sing!’” U: I love that! M: “I’m really inspired by the beach and living in California, and Girls the band... Christopher Owens inspires me a lot.” U: So we know you guys know Kate Nash a little bit,
how did you guys get in touch?
U: Who are the members of your band? M: “Me, and Ryan plays guitar. We have Kailee Westwood who plays bass and Christian Karapetian on drums.” U: What brought you all together? Were you friends
before?
M: “I met [Ryan] at a music festival, that was about a year ago. Then we started dating. [I’ve known] the drummer since high school, we used to play when I was younger and he just kind of joined the band a few weeks ago. And Kailee - we all just met her a month ago at a show.” U: What festival did you and Ryan meet at? M: “Eclectic Roots!” U: So tell us a little bit about “Stoked on You.” RYAN: “It’s 15 songs, [but so far] we’ve released 7 of them. It’s not going to come out until the winter. We have the Stoked On You EP out now.” U: What is your favorite track that’s been released so far? R: “‘don’t mean jack’.” M: “I like ‘cool cat’ but I also really like ‘big headed alien’ and ‘so high’.”
M: “Oh my gosh! Okay, I have a pen pal in England. Her name is Harriet and she’s in a band called the Tutts and they went on tour with Kate Nash. [In our letters] I told her I’ve loved Kate since middle school Then I look at Twitter one day and it says ‘Kate Nash is following you’ and I’m like “WHAT!” I tweeted her and she was having a show. I went and was backstage, [and] met her, she’s super nice - an amazing person.” U: Tell us about where you’ve been playing lately. What
has been most memorable?
R: “Orange County and Los Angeles. Our most memorable was at The Smell.” M: “Yeah we played there [for] our first sold out show, people were going crazy!” U: What is The Smell? R: “It’s a venue in downtown Los Angeles.” U: So, Why do music? Why be The Aquadolls? M: “I really love music, it’s my passion but also by recording and releasing music I can inspire people to do whatever they want. I got a lot of harassment in high school, people saying [I couldn’t do it]. Now I am! Be yourself - don’t be afraid to do whatever you like.” U: What is your dream last supper? And who would you
eat it with?
M: “I would love to have pizza with Wavves!” U: Why are they your favorite? I know, hard question. M: “I just like the way they sound, I think it’s a sound a lot of people could like. I mean, I like it. My mom likes it.”
U: What kind of pizza though? M: “I want some of that pizza with pineapple.” U: Pesto or tomato sauce? M: “Wow! I’ve never tried pesto..” U: What! They have it everywhere in Canada! R: “[That] Sounds good!” M: “How about one of those and then a regular one?”
U: How did you guys get hooked up with Burger Records?
M: “I used to go help out a lot at the shop last summer and I ` gave Bobby May a CD saying, “I’ve been working on this with my boyfriend I know you’re going to love it!” they listened and said they wanted to put out a tape. We were really excited! They gave us burger star buttons!”
U: How do you think a young person could get involved in music and follow their own dreams? R: “They should record on their computer however they can.” M: “I always inquired at school, took singing lessons, piano lessons. Jam with your friends! Bring a notebook around with you, write down songs and random words - form a song with them!” R: “Go to shows and try to meet people!” M: “Going to shows is the best way to meet other musicians and join a band.” R: “Make an internet site.”
U: Where are creative outlets for young people in your community? How can one beef up their community?
M: “Going to shows I’ve met so many different people, it’s really inspiring to see other people perform as well. If there’s no performances going on in your community you can have house shows. I think that makes a good community. Also going to parks. I love going to parks.”
U: We know you’ve heavy into Feminism, tell us how ho got you into it?
M: “Honestly no one really, I feel like it’s common sense to me. Everyone deserves equal rights, we’re not ‘men’ and ‘women’ we’re all the same. We are all humans: we all have nipples, so why can’t we all love each other? But it’s not like that - there’s a lot of female hatred towards each other, people being judgmental. I try to be [open-minded] towards a lot of people.”
U: How do you think you can share Feminism through your music? M: “Just by having a female voice spreading the message of girl power and not being afraid to say how you feel just because of what sex you are. You can make any sort of statement if it’s sexual - like who cares? Guys talk about that stuff, why can’t we? Like, I don’t want to shave my armpits, I don’t care. ([But] I’ll do it sometimes.)” U: Yeah I know! I went on the greatest streak one time, it was gettin’ good and my boyfriend at the time didn’t seem to mind. It was great! I was livin’ the life.
U: Any Last Words? M: “Shout-out to Nathan Williams - eat your fruits!”
roller grrrls `
“90% OF THE PEOPLE WHO [TRY OUT] ARE LIKE, ‘I SAW WHIP IT!
I WANT TO DO IT!’”
written and illustrated by jenna bentzen There's something entrancing about the sound of roller skates whizzing around a track. As I sat down Harbour City Roller derby coach Krispy Punch, it became quickly apparent that this sport was more than just full contact. It is a union of people coming together from a mutual love for roller derby. KP's passion for derby started in Edmonton, where she resided with her family. She first put on her skates in the spring of 2009. When she moved to Vancouver Island she connected with a player from Victoria and together they formed Harbour City Rollers, one of the derby teams in Nanaimo, British Columbia. Being an avid hockey fan, she knows what it's like to play with a team. Some of the most memorable people she has met through derby have become lifelong friends. "You hate them on the track but as soon as game's over you're like, 'Yay! Let's go for beers!'" Recruitments are once a year she says, in September, and have been very popular. "Honestly, 90% of the people who come are like, "I saw Whip It! I want to do it! So it was good for the derby community for it to come out."
However, the sport isn't as glamourous as Ellen Page makes it seem. The team has a strong focus to the athleticism and team aspect of derby. "You play for what's on the front of your jersey, not on the back." I was happy to find out that this is the first year any team on Vancouver Island has been recruiting a co-ed team - And it's been going well! "Derbies are inclusive of everyone, no matter your gender." she goes on to say, “it kind of balances you out." This past season, HCR have had a great travel season, playing as far as Chilliwack. There's always somebody to play: Victoria's 'Eves of Destruction' or Salt Spring's 'Salish Sea Rollers', but the real trouble for teams is finding a venue to use. In Nanaimo there is a lack of space for roller sports to set up full sized tracks. For a short time the ice arenas are available for space, but not without competition with other sports like lacrosse, who need the space as well. With Nanaimo’s Beban Park newly proposed upgrades, the HCR team is hoping they will acquire some venue space. Their ideal space is an empty warehouse. (In Comox, they have the opportunity to rent out a warehouse month to month.) "That would be our dream," KP admits with a laugh. "but we are grateful for what we have; a lot of teams don't have a covered space."
Contrary to some negative nancies, the derby community and lifestyle is extremely. In fact, the negative attention they have `received are based on misconceptions and focus on the non-athletic components of the sport. A more openminded approach to forms of athleticism would aid sports like derby in amazing ways. Support is always needed. KP explained to me that it's a group effort. The team has participated in toy drives as well as Operation Red Nose, and a volunteer-designated driver service offered during the holidays. "We try to do things in the community because that's who's coming to our games. You need to help a community because that's who's going to support you. If you're showing you're willing to respect and support a community, they're going to do the same in return." What I found most rewarding after talking to the derby boys and girls was the sense of family and connection they all had with each other. Coming from all types of backgrounds, team members unite. There's a huge diversity among the players, ages ranging from 19-26. Everyone has common respect for each other. "Derby is family", a player says. "There's a rule in derby called 'No Douchebaggery,'" another says with a laugh. "There's a lot of support, working together. A lot of love and help." Krispy Punch and the Harbour City Rollers have much faith in the youth of the island, where misdirection and miscommunication is becoming a growing trend. The outcome of this is loss. Loss of individuality, zest for life and forward thinking in the young minds of today. A player had this advice to offer, "Keep looking for something you're passionate about, cause once you do find it it's really exciting!" And it shows. Every player out there had a smile on their face. You could really tell they loved what they were doing. KP had some fantastic words to share with me regarding youth. "Don't settle for good enough" she begins, "Understand that you can be yourself. There is life after high school. Mediocrity is mediocrity... If you want to be great you gotta work hard!" Which is entirely true. These players work hard. They train all year round, playing games in late April to August. "It's not a weekend warrior kind of thing. It takes over your life - In a good way." I ensured her I would bring more people to practices and games. A lot of people do not know where to start, or know that this exists. My gratitude and deep thanks go out to the Harbour City Rollers and all derby teams alike for offering something different in our community.
“YOU NEED TO HELP A COMMUNITY BECAUSE THAT’S WHO’S GOING TO SUPPORT YOU. IF YOU’RE SHOWING YOU’RE WILLING TO RESPECT AND SUPPORT A COMMUNITY, THEY’RE GOING TO DO THE SAME IN RETURN.”
`
You Are Not Hardcore a refreshing interview
(Unless You Live Hardcore)
by Meredith Park
After briefly meeting at Small Press Expo, I chatted with Mitch Clem, picking his brain about art and the state of punk rock today.
Tell us a bit about your start in comics, and your background in the punk scene. Well, I've been drawing comics since I was a little kid, really. I wanted to be a newspaper cartoonist when I was a kid and that was still a job that existed. And so that was just always a thing I'd done. My background in the punk scene was just getting into the music in like late middle school, early high school, somewhere in there, and eventually moving to St. Cloud at seventeen where I got to befriend people who played in bands and booked shows, at which point I started booking shows and doing flyers and even playing in the occasional awful band. Â When and how did your love for comics and punk rock intersect? M: I'd started a zine in high school called Summer's Over that ran for nine or ten issues. It was mostly just writing, but there were comics in it, though the comics didn't have anything to do with punk rock. I'd never made that connection. Then, at some point, my friend and I booked a house show in St. Cloud for the Modern Machines and a couple locals, and, on the flyer,
I'd drawn these two guys making some dumb joke about house shows being tax deductible. And it was this real aha moment, you know, when I realized, "Oh shit, I could start a series making jokes about punk rock!" And so that was when I started Nothing Nice to Say. This was all in the tail-end of 2001, the comic went live online in February of 2002. Â Tell us a bit about Silver Sprocket - what is it, who else is involved? Silver Sprocket Bicycle Club is Avi Ehrlich's baby. Born from the ashes of Springman Records, more or less? I don't know, he'd really have to be the one to tell you the story. But basically it's a record label based in San Francisco, but Avi's interests over the past few years have moved from just putting out records to putting out just cool art stuff by cool art people. So a lot of the focus is trending towards comics, but also prints and stickers and shirts and whatever kinda crazy stuff sounds cool. Again, you'd have to ask Avi about the mission statement or whatever, but, in their capacity with me, they publish my two newest projects, As You Were and Turnstile Comix.
`
Lastly, we here at Uncultured like to end our interviews with a solid piece of wisdom from whoever we talk to. So...any last words?
What about the punk movement resonates with you? Who is on your radar right now? The thing that always stuck out to me about punk rock was like this collective yearning for social justice and progressive political activism. You learn about the civil rights movements and women's liberation and things like that when you're young and it all seems so obvious in retrospect, like, of course human beings should be treated like human beings, right? And yet it's still an issue. Racism, sexism, all that. Politicians actively campaign on platforms of social regression and bigotry. That's insane to me. But punk music always had cool political bands speaking out against that kind of nonsense, and I always appreciated that. Dillinger Four, Propagandhi, etc. So it was kinda the politics initially, and that's still a thing I love about it. I also always appreciated the D.I.Y. ethic, the idea that art isn't some unattainable commodity but something that everyone can have a hand in creating and perpetuating. Bands are to be started by you and me, music is to be written by you and me, and if we can't do that then we can book shows or start zines or draw flyers or let bands play in your living room. Populist rock, the death of the rock star. Am I making any sense? I might be a little drunk. Â
Advice, eh? Yeah, alright. There's that old thing, "writers write". It's so true. The only way to become worth a shit in whatever your craft is is to do it every single day, no exceptions, even if you don't feel like it. If you wanna make comics and you want people to notice you, the trick is to draw every single day, and then eventually you won't suck as bad, and you keep doing it and eventually you might even be kind of okay. And you keep doing it and doing it. My comics, when I started Summer's Over, when I started Nothing Nice to Say, were AWFUL. The art was awful, the writing was clunky and my worldview was ignorant bordering on offensive. But I kept at it and now it's been over a decade and I'm starting to be almost okay, or at least okay enough that people are polite about it. To see more of Mitch's work and to find out more about his comic anthologies, check him out at mitchclem.com
`
`
`
`
WANT TO ASK NANA YOUR OWN QUESTIONS? WRITE HER AT OFFICIALNANAWILLIS@GMAIL.COM
Dear Nana Willis, As I face my impending graduation, I am overwhelmed by my life's incredible lack of direction. I am standing on the precipice staring into the void of uncertainty. What do I do next? Where do I go from here? Also, should I get bangs?
- Anonymous
Dear Zach Galifianakis, Life is all about standing at precipices. Actually, let me restate that: If you find yourself constantly standing at precipices, please call someone. We’d rather you stayed away from them. No matter what you’re graduating from, it is ok to be scared about your life lacking direction. The fun and scary part about this is that you are the only person who can give it direction. Other people can help, but you get to choose! Look for role models- internships, kids swinging too high on swings in parks, and other people who seem to be living life in full ways. Nobody can tell you you aren’t doing it right, because there is no one path. The big secret of life (that isn’t actually a secret) is that nobody thinks that they are doing it right. Let this be freeing to you! Listen to yourself, and most of all, be kind to yourself. You do not need to know everything. As for the bangs, ask your mother. I want nothing do do with it.
`
STEVE GIRARD: BAD MC WRITTEN BY JENNA BENTZEN
I met with Steve Girard over Skype in his studio, whom he shares with five other budding creatives. Amongst him are a painter, photographer, musician and an animator. The curious creature that is Steve resides in Brooklyn, NY. We start talking about his new projects, wu-tang and his creations. I even show him some of my art, mixed in with some light rapping. UNCULTURED: Who are you and what do you do? STEVE/STEVIE: "I make drawings and do movie stuff." U: Oh yeah, I saw something about a movie premiering on the 26th of September, but I couldn't read the poster. It was animated in hair.. S: "Oh, right. I've been working on "Wawd Ahp" since I graduated from [college], it s been almost three years of work. It started out as a music video but evolved into a movie. I put myself in it, took the music out. I rap and I cut my head off, then I have sex with my head. And inside my sperm is the movie - the animation. I'm really proud of it. I think it's gonna be good.. I know it's going to be good." U: Wow, that sounds like an interesting perspective. What kind of venue are you showing it at? S:"My friend Maggie's place. It's a big performance space, you know, with a floor and a ceiling. That night there's going to be some comedy, live band.. these guys I like, Bonerwolf. Some art and stuff. It'll be a full night." U: Where did the title "Wawd Ahp" derive from? S: "Wu-Tang, just the way they speak is delicious. There's this one song called "Blunts" with RZA or GZA. And right at the beginning they both say 'wawd ahp' (word up). It sounds amazing, but yeah that's the name."
“I’D LIKE TO MAKE A FEATURE FILM... I’VE BEEN PREGNANT WITH IT SINCE THE BEGINNING OF COLLEGE.” U: Have you always had a definitive style, or has it morphed over the years to become what it is now? S: "I think when you do anything a lot you're gonna come up with a way to do it. It's like, you have a style of talking. But you're not a talker. Well, I guess you're an interviewer so you're not the best example. Everyone has a style of doing anything, so as you continue doing it you get an accent. [Over time] I added a lot of dots, a lot of details. I always liked stuff that takes a long time to look at. But the downside is it takes a long time to do. It sucks a little bit. I'm in a funny place with this shit. But fire away, ask another." U: Alright. How do your drawings come to life Is there a preconceived idea, or is it spontaneous? S:"I used to not know what I was drawing until I finished it. Then I was thinking so much about my life that I had the perfect thing to write down on the drawing that felt really right. Now it's like, cause I'm thinking about this stupid blog before I'm doing this drawing I start thinking about something finished that people will like." U:Would you say you feel pressured to post to the blog then? S: "Totally. Absolutely. It's got nothing to do with other people. It's not even a big deal. It's just a blog. I think younger people relate to it... People always have the things they're proud of, get off the bus at. After college people really started to take things seriously. I kind of go, "Well, at least I got the blog..." I feel like I'm pressured to get something out of this. Ultimately I don't want to keep drawing angsty feelings forever. It's run its course a little bit."
`
U: Where does all the human disfigurement come from? Is there any symbolism behind it? S:"I think shit that's gross is funny, I think I'm a boy like that. Like shit that's kind of grotesque is fun to look at. I'm more interested in things you don't see rather than the ones you do see... you know, still life. It's fun to improvise when drawing. Just add bumps and 'tumours', kind of just having fun [as you go]." U: What kind of materials do you use? S:Prismacolours, black pens [for details and shading]. I draw on grid paper. U: Will you be selling more of your book 'Drawings 2 Kill Your Parents 2'? S:"I want to have 'em. But I drop like $17 a book to make them, with the ink and all. I guess I did hire a person, this kid named Nick. Shout out to Nick! Huge sci-fi nerd and a big reader. But anyway, each book I was losing money. I want everyone to have one but I don't want to make them." U: Fair enough, people could even make their own if they really wanted. S:"Exactly. Why not, when that shit's all online anyways." U: What were your art classes like in high school? I'm always interested in what kind of environments artists stemmed from. S:"Well... I took a photo class. You know what? I drew a racist drawing in the fifth grade. It was an asian guy. He was a sumo wrestler so I gave him a ponytail and his eyes were just lines. Asian people's eyes are more narrow than caucasians, don't know if you've noticed. It was pretty accurate too, but I think his arms were too long. The teacher was upset, but I remember feeling really right about it, you know I [knew concretely] that he was supposed to be an asian guy. I remember the teacher made me feel bad about it. I also had another experience, I drew these guys melting in third grade. As they were walking they were turning to liquid. They all talked to me about it, you know, 'Stevie, what are you drawing...?' And [a third experience], my brother is a really good artist. [I tagged along with him and his buddy] to their art class. The assignment was to draw an athlete. So I drew a ballerina surrounded my skulls holding this butcher's knife. That seemed like a funny thing to do but I remember being reprimanded for that too. These fuckin' art teachers don't have any sense of humour.. but I don't want to make a 'poo-poo' on art class, cause I went to film school."
U: What school did you go to? S: "NYU." U: Is film primarily your main focus, drawing on the side or is it the other way around? S: "Yes, film's my main focus. [It's nice that my drawings] have had internet response, but [I'm tired of] drawing stupid emotions. Like, what am I growing into? What am I helping? I think I'm going to do movies more aggressively, that's a much fuller experience than drawing on grid paper. U: Yeah, it's a more well-rounded, connective experience. S: "Yeah, you get to know actors, comedians, get to know stories and people - you all come together. I'm kind of a possessive dude when it comes to shit I make. I like to have it be mine and work with talented folks. I'd like to make a feature length movie, I've begun to write. I've been pregnant with it since the beginning of college." U: So how did you get started with filming? S:"I liked to play around in front of the camera. In high school my friends and I used to get high and rent movies like The Wall, Yellow Submarine... weird horror movies. Watching movies with my friends at that time was what got the ball rolling. I started making movies in my basement to play in front of [them]. You know, it was crude animation, me making silly voices. Being with my buddies and watching it was pretty cool." U: So what makes you confident that 5 black dudes are running your mind? S: "That is a feeling... I have a fantasy to be a rapper. Sometimes I think I feel fierce like Nas." U: If I come up with a piano beat, you should rap to it. S: "Okay. 'Hangin' out with Jenna, she doesn't have any henna. 'Cause she's not Indian, you feelin' me minh? Your piano is not tuned, I feel like a goon. I feel like a Loony Tune. I'm feelin' like this rap is gonna end soon... 'cause I'm runnin' outta words.'" U: Alright! S: "Thank you Jenna for doing that." U: Danke, you too."
`
BANDITOS MYSTERIOSOS
The Banditos are an anonymous Boston-based group specializing in creating wild and fun activities that utilize community spaces. Bandito M and I spoke through a series of smoke signals and suspiciously arranged roadside trash.
written BY MADDIE DENNIS When and how did Banditos Mysteriosos come to be? Banditos was founded in Winter 2007 by a few people who had recently graduated college and wanted to continue in some way the event-based (free) fun that is harder to come by outside of campus life. A call went out for anyone interested in helping plan free, family-friendly events in public spaces, and enough people have been interested in making them happen to keep us going for nearly 6 years! How does one become a part of the Banditos? Get in touch with contact@misteriosos.org; we're always open for new people and ideas to add to the mix!
Do the people who make up the group seem to come from a similar background? Does it attract a certain type of person? The planning committee members are currently all late 20s through early 30s, but we've had younger and older folks before. A lot have a performance or artistic background, but not everyone does. I'd say we're all passionate about enabling people to enjoy themselves. So if you're interested in joining, that's kind of the base requirement!
`
Have you had a favorite event so far?
What is the process behind creating events?
I'm gonna give you two.
We have a big brainstorming meeting each year, which includes discussing how we might update repeating events in addition to thinking of new ones. We plan a rough calendar, and then 1-3 months before an event is scheduled, we come up with activities, prompts, etc. and think through logistics. Then about a month beforehand we begin promoting/advertising.
Favorite moment: after our first Photo Scavenger Hunt in 2012, we got an email from someone saying he had lived in the area for 25 years and decided to take his kids along. Apparently, we sent him to places he had never even known existed. The email was so much more eloquent than my emotionless summary... anyway, it made us all feel really warm-and-fuzzy. Favorite event: Our second Choose Your Own Adventure. People put so much work into it, we had a dozen-plus friends pitch in to play characters, and we sprawled all over Back Bay/ the Fens. It was super-involved, extremely tiring, and ran over by a few hours. But everyone -- participants, most importantly, and us as well -- kept their spirits up and had a truly fantastic time. Is there anything you would change about the way Banditos works? Alternately, what do you think works so well about the group? I think we all recognize that this is something we all do for fun and minimal, if any, recognition. So, we just do the things that we want to do, and try really hard to not take any disagreements personally. That, and in our meetings I think there's a kinetic energy to it, that's just really fun to be a part of. Is there any activity that you have wanted to do but been prevented from doing for some reason? In that same vein, if you had no restrictions, what would you plan for the ultimate Banditos Event? Well, we're basically self-funded (though we have a PayPal account for donations on our website...) Because of that, extensive props or sets are typically out of our price range. For our Choose Your Own Adventure in 2012, we had received a grant from the Awesome Foundation, which enabled us to use Nerf guns, ooblek, and high-powered magnets -among other things. I don't know what an "ultimate" Banditos event would be. Probably each of us has a different idea!
Have you ever gotten in trouble for using specific spaces or has the reaction been mainly positive? Twice, in our first year, there were a couple of near-misses because we didn't think. For our first Scavenger Hunt, in 2008, we used the Common as a gathering point, and the Rangers asked us not to use it again. And then a few months later we used the Esplanade for a water gun fight, but it was the same day as one of the summer Hatch Shell concerts, so there were some concerns there. We've subsequently gotten better about checking for other events... But because we are intensely respectful of public space and aspire to leave the area even nicer than we found it, there have been no problems since! Do you feel like these events have created a new kind of community? I don't know if I'd use the word "create"... we've tapped into some underlying something that was already there. And our various events, from the Pillow and Water Gun fights, to Scavenger Hunts, to Gift Swaps, draw different sorts of people - students, the post-college set, young families, "real" adults, and (believe it or not) folks just walking by and dropping in.
Want to keep up with banditos Mysteriosos? check them out on facebook and at their website www.mysteriosos.org
Jack-of-all stress `
this is what happens when you live ridiculously Written By Kat Wawrykow Illustration By Magdalena Wolan
`
I have to say, when you cannot describe what you do for a living, to a new acquaintance in less than one sentence, you often feel the unsettling weight of your reality. In these circumstances you then tend to begin the response with, “how long do you have?” and struggle from there on. Don't get me wrong, I love what I do. Which is what exactly? In short summary, I am a Jack-of-All-Trades. I'm a Christian, studying Illustrator/ Designer, Editor-in-Chief, and amateur Baker. However, with the unsteady beginnings of this year, it has become apparent that my juggling act is getting far more complex than I bargained for. It all started when I transferred universities from Ontario to British Columbia. What should have been a smooth move was a stressful and overly eventful one for me. Two days before class begun, I was interviewing and photographing in Seattle. So naturally I didn't start unpacking until the night before class began. That being said, I was thrown into this Illustration & Design program which happens to be one of the most work intensive programs I’ve ever encountered, coupled with extremely long class days. For the sake of keeping in my professors and magazine affiliates’ good grace, I will not describe some of the more hilarious juxtapositions I’ve gotten myself into because of this workload (but I feel no shaming in vaguely referencing a specific event where I was forced to do homework under my program, while doubling as press for a high-profile fashion showcase.) So as surprising as this may sound, this kind of lifestyle begins to cause serious wear and tear to your sanity. I would like to interrupt myself to remind you of a simple truth: Life is a plate full of interesting opportunities. We can understand that those who work hard, do extra, even sacrifice, can do great and seemingly impossible things. We also know that most of us could reach the same heights if we were willing to do what they do, but we aren't thank you very much. Potential possibilities sound like an unnecessary exertion of energy, so we say “maybe next time” and coincidentally never get around to doing it. That plate full of opportunities is a plate wasted, and we let the leftovers slide right into the garbage, because get smashed,
trashed, and high on reality TV just feel too good in the moment. You may realize that although you’re caught up with the Kardashians, you can’t say you’re living in the fast lane. So can you imagine what the reverse of all this would be? A life so jammed-pack like a multivitamin that it seems unreal in retrospect? That is what life has been like this past month as the magazine reaches new audiences, launches our website, and re-establishes a home on the West Coast. Pulling back when I could, I took the time to turn to mentors: older friends, and wise family. Because in truth, I was full of panic at my fast lane course of blessings. It was pointed out to me that having too many feet in different pools will result in loss of balance. Simply put I can't be all things at once. And do I want to be worn so thin ? Upon reflection I knew that the only way to escape this was to ask for help. So I prayed for more mentors. I prayed for clarity. The recovery started with my sister handing me a pad of sticky notes and a pen. So what great piece of life advice are you supposed to walk away with? Make lists. Cross things off as you go. Feel that small sense of accomplishment. Once long ago, my sister told me to write down my prayers and cross them off as they were answered to see how my requests for help were being met. (Usually in ways I didn’t expect.) I needed to do this because I was so blind to progress of any kind. Don't be so busy that you rob yourself the pleasure of recognizing when you are hard at work and are actually completing a project. Reward yourself. Most importantly don't go at it alone. I'm starting to realize that being a Jack-of-All-Trades requires treats and a healthy support network. I am making it my goal to learn effective ways of scheduling, how to say no, how to give responsibility to others, and having the guts to step back and look at the masterpiece I’ve created. It’s new, exciting and a bit intimidating. Just like moving to a new city, making new friends - But it's part of the plan. Juggling is a learnable skill they say and as challenging as this state of being has been, when mastered is your most rewarding friend. Food for thought.
BACK TO BASICS `
with the
CHINA STEPS EMPORIUM Written by Jenna Bentzen
Going into my interview I didn't know what to expect from Trader Jake. I just knew that however it turned out, it was going to be a good time. Fortunately for us we got along and ended up having some much needed substantial conversation. This interview turned out to be really important to me. It was the final interview for the Fall Issue and fittingly seemed to sum up its themes in a purely honest form.
Born and raised o n Va n c o u ve r Island in South Nanaimo, in 34 years, Jake has experienced all parts of the island. I was surprised to find out that he is also a ticketed plumber and Red Seal chef. He was attracted to the artistic aspect of culinary, but after many years, he realized what most of us do in the kitchen world – your life is the restaurant. Same job, same folks, and little pay equates to a loss of passion. He played in bands through the years, toured a little bit in his twenties and eventually became a plumber. Trading and collecting was always "something that was trickling through" with weekends becoming a hunt for junk. Growing up, he was surrounded by motorcycles, hot rods and the like. He eventually started building motorcycles, collecting parts and selling them. "When I collect something I go gung-ho. Best of the best, top tier stuff. Everyone can collect Coca-Cola or Hot Wheels but it's boring because it's already out there." He brings up the fact that Ebay and TV shows like Canadian Pickers have changed the game. "It doesn't have much "wow"
factor. You've seen it before, there's a price on it." It's bittersweet. On the other hand, a following for collecting has developed through these shows, but it also makes it harder to find that invaluable item: “The in-collectables.” Most items are sold in silent auctions now and their real worth has been broadcasted to millions. Whereas, a few years ago you could have found it in the local thrift shop for a measly price. Going on to tell me more of his recent cool finds, he shared that he got his hands on a dead biker's vest, an interesting find since bikers are buried and burned wearing their vests. Oh, and he also found a shrunken head. Amazingly he found it in Vancouver from a private collector. And although he "wouldn't want to generalize a specific item" it's a prized possession. "I didn't even show it to my girlfriend at first. It was one of those things where, ‘Honey, look what I bought.’ [won’t cover it.] He laughs, ‘it's not like drapes or car tires. It's a severed fucking head!" Furthermore, he tells me that it has a unique scent, which is apparently a good thing when proveing its authenticity.
`
Jake's been avid among the flea market/antique circuit for years, but opened up his shop a couple years ago out of a little garage in Nanaimo. He reno'd it, making it his own but "it was too successful so the city shut it down." Then then decided to relocate to a spot downtown, with some passion lost. Right now, the store is currently in the process of relocating again, this time just around the corner. But I can't say anymore than that. Jake has recently been on a kind of hiatus this summer due to health complications, but is proposing a grand opening for Halloween. What he has roughly sketched out in his brain for that evening sounds quite exciting, but is keeping it hush until then. Attending Cedar swap meets, farmer's markets and collaborating with local pickers Jake stumbles upon all his unique finds. But what surprises and dumbfounds the both of us is that all these kinds of venues seem only to be found outside of city limits. "It's amazing [that] they just won't have one at Beban Park or Bowen Park," he pipes up, "there's a saying, 'That's so Nanaimo.' Which means for me that things can never seem to gain momentum. They're here for a little while and then dwindle off." Which is so true. I asked why, and he proposed two decisions business owners can make in this situation. Expanding to a bigger location to accommodate parking, or you can "stay small" where it "stays stagnant when you should naturally be letting it grow." Defending the sour saying ‘that’s so Nanaimo.”
"I've been dealt a weird hand. I never would have opened a store if I hadn't gotten sick. A blessing in disguise? It forced me to do my own thing. It's enveloped itself into what it's manifested itself to be, I guess." The biggest trend I have found in living here is seeing everybody stuck. A lot of people are faceto-face with this wall, see the top and are daunted. What I don't see people doing is looking outside of themeslves. Nobody seems to be trying to find a way over this wall but instead are repeatedly bumping brains with it. There are few who see this with me and Jake is one of them. He encouraged me that
"this is the time to leap over/pole vault over that shit." And he couldn't have said it better. "It doesn't surprise me that you say [this]. I feel the media has put us in a field of vision with blinders. They don't want anyone sliding through the cracks."
We then moved on to human connectivity, what it means to us and how it is slipping away. We talked about the value of 'true connections', how they impact us as human beings and how vital they are to our existence. In a swap meet, "you meet the realest [kind of] people there, whether you like them or not. You see all walks of life. It's a melting pot of true human existence." What is most rewarding at these events is the connections which are made. Getting to know where your food is coming from, and the person behind the product. These little moments of humanity remind us that we are a global community - we are going through the same trials and turmoil. Which gets me thinking, the youth of this generation has become lost. There is significant change in this generation compared to those preceding us. We communicate so much that it lacks any real social connection. We spend hours mastering Guitar Hero, but never think to pick up a real instrument and dedicate that time to learning it. "When I was a kid we bought guitars and created punk bands." Jake reminisces, "people don't think it's necessary anymore," because there is no instant gratification.
Unfortunately, this is another growing trend. Worrying ` about getting to the destination without enjoying the ride there. Needing to have the newest, best, fastest, biggest item just to show the world what you got; that you're keeping up with the Jones's. But it isn’t just the youth that are caught in this mind wave, adults live the material life too, but to no avail. The Jones's don't exist remember?
"You know in Almost Famous when Russell's coming off that acid trip and he's touching flowers, saying 'This is real. Real. Real.' Craving that real connection. That's how I feel right now." I confessed to him that I feel that everything in this world is backwards. Everything is a fantasy. "You know in ‘Almost Famous’ when Russell's coming off that acid trip and he's touching flowers, saying 'this is real, real, real'... craving that real connection. That's how I feel right now." He feels the same way, adding that communities need togetherness, awareness and local businesses. ‘Peppered’ amongst the malls, downtown, poor and wealthy parts of town. He believes humans "strive for more than Haines underwear and Orange Julius, that's why we need antique shops and independent coffee roasters - it keeps the connections alive." What is ironic is that we both feel our world is becoming empty, with empty people, yet our population is growing faster than ever.
Near the end of our interview Jake went on to tell me a story that was so moving to hear. It was when he brought his dog for a walk in a park he frequented as a boy. Growing up the trails where popular, where friendly people said hello. "I knew the trails like the back of my hand. So I take the dog for a walk - it's been forever. No one's on the trails ... All right, no one's walking anymore they've made that clear. Nobodies out enjoying the weather. Then I look down the trail and it's the first existence I see running towards me. [It's a jogger and she's] getting closer and closer. Now, it's been a couple hours, it's irking me inside to say hello to somebody! I need some kind of human connection in this forest. She gets closer and she sees me, the dog, and fucking 180's and sprints away! She was absolutely horrified I was there. And I've got this wiener dog, so it wasn't him so I get thinkin' 'is it me?' It broke my heart. You know, wipe the tear away, sit by the creek's edge.. [It didn't matter] who it was, I [would've said the same greeting]. I walked through the trails and didn't see anyone. It got me thinking, when did it change? Was it the trail, the people, me, the world? I've pondered that moment ever since.” "I've walked the trails since then a couple times, but I don't really strive to say hello anymore, because they don't seem interested in it. It's a shame to think if the world was to end, that two people would run past each other in a forest. God, we don't have to have a connection but let's acknowledge that we're the last two people. There, you can end with that."
`
is proud to present
UNCULTUREDMAG.COM -UNBRIDLED CONTENT-QUESTIONABLE HORSE REFERENCES-UNTAMABLE SPIRIT-