I was pointed to an interesting book by one of my main dudes, Paul Breckow, and from this I’m here to pass on what I think is an unmatched look into one of the most uncelebrated extensions of the city of Los Angeles. This book, The Ulysses Guide to the LA River VOL. I, is the beginning of an in depth perspective of the Los Angeles River, offering a close inspection of the hidden life and culture that thrives within the influence of the city and river. The first chapters begin by embracing the nature that exists within the confines of the river’s concrete walls. If you’ve seen the LA river for yourself, it is well known that this is not an ordinary river by any means. It is unique in that it is not founded on a natural setting, but is instead shaped by man’s own hand. In a city overruled by tall buildings and advanced architecture, it may seem that a concrete river running through the heart of the city would only be a hindrance, yet the people behind Ulysses use art, photographs and stories to depict a world that only a native eye could uncover- with displaying these perspectives, they allow everyone the chance to experience what it is to be an Angelino by viewing the Los Angeles River through these native eyes, doing the city a much deserved justice.

Hit up the site and pick up the guide, and check out art exhibition February 14 – May 30, 2010 @ the Pasadena Museum of California Art- www.pmcaonline.org

you won’t regret taking the ride.

Friday, I had an opportunity to check out the opening reception of Haze’s gallery done in collaboration with Stussy, curated by Known Gallery. For those in the know, Haze really needs no introduction for his graff work in the streets of Manhattan’s West Side during the 70’s.

As an artist, it was no mystery what he wanted to set out to accomplish early on as a designer who roots were set in the Graff. From the streets of NY to artwork for the Beastie boys & EPMD, Haze’s handiwork can be seen and felt from many facets of differing cultures. His signaure handstyle and use of black and white, is instantly recognizable.

Going into the reception,the curation, exhibit and response were immense as well as refined. A lot of Ogs were in the building including: Revok, Mear, Abel, Risk. It was definitely nice to see the community gather together for such a fresh exhibit. The Stussy Haze collaboration project is an interesting one because it represents the union of two forces that have paid their dues in the grimey streets but continue to perpetuate to influence modern street culture and art, while having their roots etched very deep. Personally, I enjoy seeing Haze’s work on the street or a wall, where the subtle details of his work play on the context of its environment.

Cut Chemist was spinning some delicious Latin vinyl which set the mood.

One of the favorite pieces of the night…

Haze recap’s from Tokyo…

Dilla x Stussy x Stones Throw Limited Edition Tee Shirt Release (Shammy Dee recap) from Shammy Dee on Vimeo.

This Saturday, I had a chance to check out Dilla day with my boy Arash, Shammy Dee, a talented artist in his own right. Stonesthrow was playing with Beat Junkies as Rhettmatic, Jrocc, and Peanut Butter Wolf all had respective sets paying tribute to the man, J Dilla.

The event itself was a success, with good, postive vibes as well as refreshments and tacos courtesy of Undftd, and the Kalbi taco truck. The Dilla shirt sold out within the first couple hours, if I had one in my size, i definitely would have copped one. Crowd control. Jrocc tearing it up as always.. “Show off” as Rhett puts it.

I had a chance to check out the Mos Def photo exhibit this week to check out some of the works done by Cognito. As an artist that has known to cross and blur the genre lines, its no surprise that Dante Ferrell Smith was the subject of HWV8’s recent gallery.

The show was put together alongside HWV8, Union, and Frolab capturing the culmination of Mos’ work during the Ecstatic tour. The exhibition is comprised of moments created during both performances across the globe and behind-the-scenes. The show is to last for just one week and will culminate in the production of a book featuring its works.

Mos is one of those artists that speaks volumes about his work without actually having to profess too much. He was one the first real artists that has a following both in the masses as well as a cult following. When I was first reintroduced to true Hip hop, Mos definitely was at the top of the list of artists that inspired. Late night bboy sessions to “Travelin man” after school…

On the Mic shots..
Classic.

Mos rockin the Freestyle…

Last year, Civil did an interview with the man, Retna. This Friday, I had a chance to check out a show by the powers that be. An awesome tour de force of Kofie, Mear one, Retna and El mac. Its rare to get to see such accomplished artists/ graff legends do a show together. One of the benefits in living near LA, is the rapid access to cultural art and events. I felt it was time to take full advantage of what was to offer that evening..

Eager anticipation….

Favorite Retna Piece. Queen of the Damned style… Guess who this is. Your love is one in a million.

Favorite Mear Piece. Takes you into a different world.

A revisit to El Matador, an old friend.

Kofie triple threat.

Dianne rocking Retna pants and looking dapper.

The Gyoza at Daikokuya is handmade and to die for. Throw some extra scallions on them. mmm.

The show runs till the end of the month in downtown LA! Please do yourself a favor and check it out.

Props to kzergabegallery for holding it down with the graff pics!