upper playground

NEW UP BLOG

2008-10-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

You've heard right. We're moving up in the blog world and our new blog is now going to be part of our main site at: http://www.upperplayground.com. So move your bookmarks, update your homepage, tell your friends, tell your mom, take a deep breath, and then get click on the link and enjoy our new spiffy site.

We'll still be using this site as our archive, so if you want to see any past posts, they'll all be up here for you.

Piecebook: The Secret Drawings of Graffiti Writers

2008-10-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

Before it hits the wall, graffiti is often planned out in a black book—a common artist’s sketchbook sometimes called a “piece book”—“piece” being short for “masterpiece.” Well-worn and dog-eared, these books are used to develop and trade ideas with other graffiti writers, and are often passed from artist to artist, becoming unique records of creative expression. Piecebook: The Secret Drawings of Graffiti Writers chronicles the evolution of graffiti via images that weren’t intended for everyday people to see, focusing on the works of New York City writers active from 1970s until the mid-1980s. It brings together hundreds of drawings, most never before published, reproduced on uncoated paper to resemble the pages of an authentic graffiti writer’s black book. Bold works from graffiti history’s most important sources or “seeds”—Zephyr, Dondi, Daze, CRASH, Lady Pink, T-Kid, CAP, and Ghost, among others—represent a dizzying array of techniques and styles. Fans of graffiti will find this an irresistible inside look at how their favorite artists perfected their talents.

This Sunday, authors Sacha Jenkins (of Ego Trip fame) and David Villorente (the Source) will be at Fifty24SF Gallery from 5pm to 8pm, discussing their newest project, Piecebook: The Secret Drawings of Graffiti Writers. Come and hear the background of the book from the authors themselves!

About the Authors:
Sacha Jenkins co-founded the seminal hip-hop magazine ego trip and parlayed the brand into numerous books and television shows. He is currently editorial director of Mass Appeal—an urban lifestyle magazine rooted in the culture of graffiti.

David Villorente was the editor of Source magazine’s graffiti pages, writing under the byline of his graffiti tag “Chino.” He lectures widely on the art of graffiti.

MEAR ONE @ ZERO ONE GALLERY LA

2008-10-10T10:05:00.000-07:00

The magnificent Mear One is coming back to the gallery where he got his start at fifteen years ago, the legendary Zero One Gallery (530 South Hewitt Street #141 / Los Angeles CA 90013) in the downtown arts district of Los Angeles. The opening reception is this Saturday, October 11th from 7 - 10 PM, so if you're in the LA area you're not going to want to miss it.

Over his career Mear One has made quite a name for himself in the art world, from being at the forefront of the movement that began to blur the lines between fine art and graffiti - to holding solo shows in Paris and Portland. And most recently he's contributed an in-your-face tee to our collection as well as a fine limited edition print (only 50 copies!) for our Obama series.

There's also an after party immediately following the gallery reception (invite below), tell them Upper Playground sent you and they'll be somewhat nice to you.

Big Shoes To Fill

2008-10-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

I visited the adidas campus in Portland a few weeks back and Sam Flores' face is plastered all over the place. From the outside of buildings, to offices, large posters of Sam loom overhead. The best part was seeing Sam's oversize adidas shoe that he painted smack in the middle of campus . . .

NEW GIVEAWAY ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

2008-10-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Upper Playground just got its hands on two new hardcover books that have photos as cool as the one above, and we thought why not share the love with our fans? All you have to do to enter is become our fan on Facebook, add your wisdom to our discussion board and we'll randomly pick two winners from there.

Also, check out FIFTY24SF’s page for how to enter another contest we’re doing.

The Recap: SPARKS Ignite What's Next Art Tour 2008 - PHOENIX

2008-10-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

I don’t know whether to be happy or sad that the latest Sparks/Juxtapoz/Upper Playground tour is done with. On one hand, it’ll be nice to get back in to some sort of routine, without being torn by my roots and thrown in to some new city w/ a bunch of creepy artist dudes. On the other hand, what could be better that being ripped from one’s routine to go hang out in new cities with creepy artists dudes… ok, ok… the creepy artists dudes happen to be my buddies, so it does make it a little easier. Plus, I have been fortunate to work with great new people, in each city. I really have to give it up for all the musical acts (DJ Pickster, Silver Medallion and the Insects). The last dude I want to thank is Dumperfoo. His stage name is kinda weird, but the dude is cool as shit. Without him, the AZ leg of this tour would have suffered, so hats off to you. Now, for the photos…

Yet ANOTHER picture of the boys. Straight from the plane, I knew that it was long past time to get a bite/beverage (despite the fact that I was sick as a muhfuggin dog). N8 and Alex had already been in AZ for a day, when Tarrant, Flores and I arrived and because of this, felt like they already had a lay of the land. They actually ended up taking us to a pretty sweet place (food/beverage-wise), even though it was kind of like a sad Tempe version of Hooters. Unfortunately, this was the only pic I was able to snap, as I was distracted by the minors that worked there (remember that this place was very hooters-ish), the amputee magazine cover models and the plethora of motorized wheelchairs that seemed to zip past us, every 30 seconds.

Later, we headed over to the Phoenix art-walk. Shit was crazy. There was a huge strip, with a few side streets, that branched off of it. On said strip/side streets, were about 100 “galleries” and about 1,000 people. I throw galleries in quotes, because half of these places were garages/basements/etc. A few of the artists that I spoke with were justifiably bummed about this, because it really takes away from the folks who have worked hard to build a legit art scene out there. Not saying that a good gallery can’t sprout out of creative use of space, but most of these people just wanted a spot to show their own awesome graffiti sketch books. If you say you are showing in a gallery in PHX, generally nobody really cares, because it all seems to get lumped together. That being said, there were definitely a few places that were cultivating some amazing talent. Oh yeah… the Ghostbusters were there, too.

Finally, it was time to get some real drinking done. When we demanded that we be given directions to a bar with a) rock, in the jukebox, b) a pool table, and c) bud + jack, behind the bar, we were unanimously steered to the Bikini Lounge. After typing the coordinates in to TomTom (Alex Pardee’s crappy version of a GPS device), we drove, parked and started walking. As we were walking, we looked across the street and saw this billboard. e all thought it was a little weird, but whatev’s…we’re in Phoenix. Then we looked up and saw another billboard connected to this, that said (in HUGE letters), TEEN CHALLENGE. We weren’t really sure to make of things and figured it might just be a good idea to get to the bar, ASAP. N8 had other ideas…

Yeah, N8 had other ideas… Passion of the N8.

That egg on N8’s head is the result of dropping that huge cross and having it land partially on his head. The funniest part about this (aside from the fact that a gargantuan dude was lugging a huge cross, down the sidewalk, much to the dismay of all the residents) was that Alex Tarrant thought that the bump was totally normal and had always been there.

We finally made it in to the Bikini Lounge, after talking our way out of a pummeling (for f*cking with the cross… turns out the Teen Challenge place keeps a cross in front of their building, because they are a drug recovery place run by some gnarly dudes who don’t take kindly to a bunch of f*ckwads screwing around with their religious paraphernalia). This is N8 and our new pal, Jessica (sister of Jeremy and wife of Dumperfoo).

Just after I put a couple bucks in the jukebox and played the entire Ride The Lightening album, the bartenders screeched, “Everyone out…this is an emergency…EVERYONE OUT!” Needless to say, I wasn’t thrilled (who doesn’t love Ride The Lightening?), but what I didn’t know was that this was a blessing in disguise. This forced us to find Chez Nous. Have you ever seen Animal House? If so, then I’m sure you’ll remember the part where the Deltas roll in to the Dexter Lake Club and realize that “we’re the only white people here.” This place was sick. There was a crazy soul band finishing up, the lights were dim, there were beautiful leather booths everywhere. And then N8 happened… again. Mind if we dance with your dates?

After all was said and done, I decided to ride the lightening, my own way.

The next morning we all needed to soak up some of what was sloshing around in our tums. For this entire tour, the waffle houses that freckle this fine country had proved to be a fascination for the dudes. On this leg of the tour, we just happened to have a Waffle House within walking distance of our hotel. Oh, and NEVER ask them (or possibly anyone) to put mushrooms in your grits. Ol’ Sammy Count Chocula Flores found this out the hard way.

How tall? This tall.

Alex claims to not drink, but when he couldn’t hold it anymore and we saw that his urine was the same exact color of the sparks we’d been drinking, he definitely aroused some suspicion.

The dudes finally start getting things underway.

OK… here’s where the pretty starts and the loafers start feeling lighter. Right when we noticed the sun setting on the Tempe skyline, the dudes immediately wanted their picture taken, to capture the moment. I think it may be that gigantic spliff in Floreezy’s mouth that really kicked this off.

More pretty shots (this one is one of my favorites).

Pardee and I agreed that this tower/sunset combo kind of looked like a J. Soto painting. Nice work, Jeff.

Last of the pretty . . .

Back to work.

I have to say, I was very impressed with the Tempe/Phoenix folks. The doors opened @ 8 and even though there were no performances until 9, there were already about 150 people watching our guys, by 8:30. People had really followed the history of Sam, N8 & Alex and seemed truly honored to have these guys doing their thing, right in their hometown. What was even more impressive was the age spread… there were 15 year olds, who seemed to know as much about these artists as some of the 30-40 year olds in attendance.

Fruits of labor and love.

What a bunch of jerks. Can’t wait to do it again.

Citrus Report #4: "Take the Fifth" now up

2008-10-05T12:13:00.001-07:00

The newest issue of The Citrus Report (www.theCitrusReport.com) is now up and running with features on Jeff Staple, Armsrock, and Jesse Reno. The look of the site has changed slightly, but we still have features, columns, daily news from the world around us, and now, we are featuring 11 Questions with various artists, UP team members, and the occasional celebrity that we deem worthy of the vaunted 11 Questions.

So go check out the new issue, "Take the Fifth," read about Armsrock and Staple and all the others, and don't worry, you will have more news than you will know what to deal with.

Cody Hudson x Upper Playground x Obama limited print

2008-10-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

Graphic design and fine artist Cody Hudson is the latest artist to partner with Upper Playground (UP) to produce a Barack Obama print. The Chicago-based Hudson recently published a book with UP’s FIFTY24SF Gallery books entitled Save My Life, as well as exhibited at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago this past year.

There are 200 prints made that are signed and numbered by the artist, and retail for $200. The limited-edition 18" x 24" print is available exclusively online. Please note: prints will not ship until November 3, 2008.

All proceeds from the sales of the poster will go directly to creating more campaign t-shirts, posters, and stickers by other artists in support of Obama's bid for President. Stay tuned for more Upper Playground projects in support of Barack Obama to be announced up until the election on November 4, 2008.

Cody Hudson’s Barack Obama poster is part of an ongoing series from Upper Playground of artist collaborations in support of Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Upper Playground has endorsed Obama's campaign by creating posters featuring artwork from Justin Bua, David Choe, Grotesk, The Date Farmers, Munk One, Ron English, Alex Pardee, Morning Breath, Mac, Sam Flores, Burlesque Design and Mear One, in addition to printing T-shirts with Shepard Fairey's Obama graphics to help support the campaign.

Tonight @ FIFTY24PDX Gallery, Mel Kadel + Michael Sieben + Travis Millard

2008-10-02T10:32:00.001-07:00

Look at what is going in Portland tonight: Mel Kadel, Michael Sieben, and Travis Millard, all together for a show at the FIFTY24PDX Gallery. Go check it out. Say hi to Michael for us.

The set up.

Michael and Mel, sitting, blogging, surfing, writing, etc.

Koralie, this Thursday, October 2, FIFTY24SF Gallery

2008-10-01T21:54:00.000-07:00

A little reminder goes a long way. Thursday night, at the FIFTY24SF Gallery, Koralie is opening up her new solo show, "Haiku," in our downstairs gallery. Come by from 7-9:30PM for a little bit of art goodness. Here are some set-up shot.

A wall of good Koralie work.

Koralie, in set-up mode.

She paints, we watch.

And another reminder, the "Catalyst" show has moved solely upstairs, so if you can't get enough of Horkey and friends, well you got another month to check it all out.

Upper Playground NYC

2008-10-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

Finally, we have moved ourselves to NYC as today, Upper Playground opened shop in the East Village. We guess the UP logo and butcher paper covering the store was not enough to squash the rumors, but UPNYC is officially opened. The UPNYC location also has a massive, permanent mural by David Choe on the inside walls, which is a major highlight to the store. Read below for our official word . . .

That's a nice David Choe mural we got there. David is good. You should know by now.

Upper Playground is excited to announce the unveiling of its first East Coast retail establishment in New York City. Upper Playground’s new East Village location will provide shoppers with a unique fashion and fine art experience.

Upper Playground offers apparel for men and women including their popular line of hoodies, t-shirts, jackets, shoes, luggage, and more. Similar to other UP storefronts, the store will feature an exclusive line of localized themed designs from a variety of contemporary artists and designers.

The walls of the new location will be adorned with a permanent art installation from fine artist and NYC resident David Choe. In addition to its NY location, Upper Playground has retail locations in San Francisco, Berkeley, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Portland, London, and Seattle, which also opened this month.

A superFishal design for UPNYC.

WHEN: The store will be open to the public on: Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Store Hours: 11 AM – 7PM, Mon-Sun.

WHERE: Upper Playground NYC
437 East 9th Street, West Space, New York, NY 10009
(212) 254.2233

12Grain for UPNYC.

Grotesk for UPNYC.

Final "Ignite What's Next" Event this Saturday, Ocotber 4, in Phoenix

2008-10-01T08:35:00.003-07:00

The third and final leg of the Sparks x Upper Playground x Juxtapoz "Ignite What's Next" Art Tour is upon, and the closing event is this Saturday, October 4th, at the Marquee Theater in Phoenix, Arizona. The gang of three—Sam Flores, Alex Pardee, and N8 Van Dyke—will again be painting live and showcasing their internationally renowned talents as some of the biggest stars in contemporary art. Previous Tour stops in both Atlanta and Boston had the three artists painting live including live performances from some of the best DJs and MCs in their respected cities, including a major performance from Killer Mike in the ATL.

Check out a couple of videos from the first two events: ATLANTA and BOSTON.

Atlanta:

Boston:

The Phoenix area "Ignite What's Next" Art Tour stop at the Marquee Theater will feature musical guests DJ Pickster One, Ill Al the Anglo-Saxon + OHM, Silver Medallion, and The Insects. Don't forget, this Saturday, Octoboer 4, 9 PM.

Upper Playground x Burlesque Design X Obama limited print

2008-09-30T11:15:00.001-07:00

Graphic design and screenprinting studio, Burlesque Design of North America, are the latest artists to partner with Upper Playground to produce a Barack Obama print. The Minneapolis, Minnesota-based Burlesque Design have gained international recognition as one of the premier printing and design studios for various music, poster, and tee-shirt projects. Burlesque has also been responsible for printing the entire series of Upper Playground collaborative art posters to support Obama’s campaign.

Burlesque Design’s Barack Obama poster is part of an ongoing series from Upper Playground of artist collaborations in support of Barack Obama's presidential campaign. The poster features an excerpt from Barack Obama’s speech at the Democratic National Convention this past summer. Upper Playground has endorsed Obama's campaign by creating posters featuring artwork from Justin Bua, David Choe, Grotesk, The Date Farmers, Munk One, Ron English, Alex Pardee, Morning Breath, Mac, Sam Flores and Mear One, in addition to printing T-shirts with Shepard Fairey's Obama graphics to help support the campaign.

There are 200 prints made that are signed and numbered by Wes Winship of Burlesque Design of North America, and retail for $200. The limited-edition 18" x 24" print is now available exclusively online. Please note: prints will not ship until October 20, 2008.

All proceeds from the sales of the poster will go directly to creating more campaign t-shirts, posters, and stickers by other artists in support of Obama's bid for President. Stay tuned to a new Upper Playground project in support of Barack Obama to be announced later this month.

Koralie @ FIFTY24SF Gallery: Opening Reception: Thursday, October 2, 2008 from 7–9:30 p.m.

2008-09-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

“HAÏKU” is a solo exhibition featuring French artist Koralie, an internationally renowned fine and street artist.

The show will mirror the concept and form of a haiku, focusing on what Koralie explains as, “Little canvases, little frames, little supports, all recounting a little story.” Koralie has made a name for herself in the international fine art community with her unique street art and gallery work, capturing Geisha-inspired characters with beautiful textures, patterns, colors, and forms. Apart from exhibiting in galleries across the world, Koralie has contributed designs to Upper Playground’s apparel line.

Koralie is based in Montpellier, France. Her Geisha-inspired characters are some of the most unique pieces to pop-up in cities across the world. Her work has been recently seen at Galerie L.J. Beaubourg in Paris and Joshua Liner Gallery in New York City.

Koralie’s “HAÏKU” solo exhibition will be on display at the lower level of the FIFTY24SF Gallery from October 2–30, 2008.

The upper level of FIFTY24SF Gallery will continue to show “Catalyst,” a group exhibition showcasing the works of Aaron Horkey, Josh Graham, Aaron Turner, Seldon Hunt, Justin Bartlett, Stephen Kasner, Dwid Hellion, and Florian Bertmer. The exhibit brings together an underground community of artists in which aural and visual expressions converge. Artwork on display comprises of a wide source of media, including new two-dimensional paintings, drawings, video installations, screen prints as well as an installation of seminal works from each of the artists’ extensive catalogues. Guest curation by Brett Aronson.

Mac in Holland

2008-09-26T15:06:00.001-07:00

Looks like Mac is working hard in Holland, the land of the Dutch. The Netherlands, if you will. If you remember, Mac made an Obama print for us.

Because everyone is talking about Letterman bashing McCain

2008-09-26T12:10:00.001-07:00

VitaminEnergy event this weekend.

2008-09-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

If you live in the Bay Area or somewhere close and have a dance crew (doesn't everybody have a dance crew?), go to San Leandro this weekend, present your crew and get filmed so you can be part of an online contest presented by Randy Jackson's America's Best Dance Crew and sponsored by UP, VitaminEnergy and Wild94.9.com. The two crews with the most votes will perform on Saturday, OCT. 11th @ 7:30 PM at Oakland’s Paramount. And the battle will ensue, with the winner heading off to perform this November at WildJam concert. Its all up there on this flyer.

Upper Playground is sponsoring the event and has a special giveaway contest for you. The giveaway includes a winner to receive (2) tickets to the show (and as a presenting sponsor we have some great seats), along with the tickets for the winner to receive (1) VitaminEnergized "Boogie Bag" prize pack, plus a month supply of VitaminEnergy personally delivered by the VitaminEnergy hit squad. (You have to be in the Bay Area to receive the month supply of VitaminEnergy, sorry Norway.)

You may be asking yourself, well how do I win? We made it pretty damn easy. Please RSVP to the event invite on Upper Playground's Facebook page to be entered into the contest. A random winner will be announced on 10/7 based on the RSVP list. How is that?

October New Eras. Available. Now.

2008-09-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

Upper Playground New Eras for October are now available. Look, they have a Halloween theme. Chris Lee designed the one with the jump rope killers, Dora Drimalas gave us the upside down bat design, and Sam Flores' 12Grain provided the bathing branches design. All the New Eras are available at our retail stores and online at UpperPlaygroundStore.com.

Chris Lee. Buy it here.

Dora Drimalas. Buy it here.

Sam Flores. Buy it here.

The UP x Jux x Sparks Action in Boston

2008-09-24T13:40:00.000-07:00

Remember, you got one event left to attend, and that would be Phoenix. October 4th. The Marquee Theatre.

The Cainchurian Candidate

2008-09-23T17:03:00.001-07:00

We know you're laughing, we know you are thinking how damn clever this tee is, and we know you are going to buy it and wear it around and others are going to laugh with it and think how damn clever you are for wearing a tee that is so damn clever. But, it's true. And the laughter could stop. Available at our webstore right now, UpperPlaygroundStore.com.

UP x Juxtapoz x Sparks Ignite What's Next: THE BOSTON SPARKS PARTY, PART 1

2008-09-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

Sooooooooo, here we are back in the land of false idols, bloggotry, and Sparks. Yet again, I’d really like to give it up to the artists, who worked it out on a pretty big wall under some questionable conditions (poor lighting towards the end, viagra hangover, no drinking on the job, etc…). N8 Van Dyke, Sam Naughty No-No Flores, and Alex Pardee . . . way to effin’ go! Another big-up needs to go the MC’s and DJ’s who kept things rolling smoothly: DJs Frank White and T-Scraps kicked things off, right into Raydar Ellis’ set. After that came Top Choice Clique, finished up by 7L & Esoteric. Despite technical difficulties and illness (what do you know about chugging honey and tea, for an hour, before a set?), the performers really came through in the clutch. Thanks again.

Before I get to the picture portion of this entry, I need to make sure to thank the behind-the-scenes folks. Without the following people, I would have been a quivering sack of nervous exhaustion (at least more than normal). Patrick Leery (Underground Snowboards) hooked up the spot, the permit, the snow, the skate obstacles + a jacket for Sam, who left his only long sleeved item on the plane. Tom Kelly and Selena Hoover (Sparks / Street Attackl) really kept things lubricated. That’s all I think I can say on that, but use your imagination. Lastly, Jeremy Sullivan (Underground Hip Hop) was, as always, a huge help in logistical s**t, as well as simply rally support for Upper Playground. —Mickey

The photo above: Generally speaking, I like to keep my blog photos in chronological order. That being said, I feel like this photo really captures the essence of the trip; determination with a twist of fear and the perfect amount of exposure. Oh yeah, not to mention painful and bloody (kinda like jail sex).

We should have known that this was going to be an interesting trip when we opened up the trunk of the rental, only to find the remains of Angelo "Sonny" Mercurio. They then upgraded us to a 4Runner, which worked out, since N8’s and Alex Tarrant’s legs took up the entirety of the smaller whip.

I always try to grab one photo that doesn’t have any boobs, beers, dudes, condoms, blood, etc.

This picture was rallying to be the first, but I really feel like N8’s dome kind of trumps this. At any rate, it actually fits a little better here, as a condom was found in Pardee’s mouth shortly after this picture was taken.

The crew . . . couldn’t be happier with this team, although there are two problems with this picture. 1) My cheeks look fat. 2) Wrong shirt to wear on a Sparks tour.

Pardee, tying up some loose ends. Speaking of loose ends, it was time to get our check and move on in to phase two. Sam thought he had a good way to get this going.

We then moved on to a spot called The Enormous Room. The room, itself, was a tiny (non-ventilated) sweatbox. The only thing that was enormous in that room were the dude egos, the female asses, and Van Dyke.

It’s pretty much a guarantee that ol’ Sammy the staple-remover Flores will have his arm around a girl within two hours of arriving anywhere. This is fine . . . it’s the shirt off within three hours part that always seems to throw things off the tracks. From here, ______ spearheaded the move to various venues of ill repute.

Just over the 3 hour mark.

One more of these knocked some sense in to him and he realized that it was true love.

Carrying Sparks across the threshold.

The next morning, I woke up in a panic. As tour manager, it is my responsibility to make sure that things run swimmingly (not like swimming in fountains of beer, but like smoothly). On this particular day, I rose from a dirty haze and realized that it was a couple hours later than it was supposed to be. I immediately rousted the dudes and headed to the hardware store to pick up supplies.

Once we got to the spot (on Amory, just off of Comm. Ave), they were already setting up this snowboarding drop-in. As soon as it was ready to go, it was apparent that there were two camps. On one side, you had dudes who seemed to know what the fuck they were doing.

On the other side, you had dudes who just couldn’t wait to satisfy their appetite for concrete. This particular member of camp didn’t have a great day.

This is Jeremy from Underground Hip Hop. When is Boston, cruise by his shop and say hi. If you’re in need of vinyl, go to their site, Undergroundhiphop.com and you might find some hip hop. He’s a good dude and if you’re not a jerk. He’ll take care of you.

N8 getting eaten by his own creation.

This was a hilarious scene. The Red Bull covert-ops team (not very covert, were they), rolled up on the event. Little did they know that Selena was on the scene and ready to handle them, in what ever fashion she deemed appropriate. Lucky for Red Bull Selena was in a good mood. Although, I do wish that she’d swiped those hideous sunglasses off ol’ Red Bull’s face.

This dude may have been the highlight of the trip for me. Granted, he kept stealing my hat (which I finally gave him, because I was sick of chasing him), but he was so in to the music, dancing, art and just general scene, that I couldn’t help but get stoked on him. Here he is, busting one of his stationary head spins. I tried to call him out on the fact that a head spin entails actual spinning, but he held fast that this is how little dudes do ‘em in Boston.

FINALLY . . . it’s about time!

This was the first MC to grace the stage . . . Raydar Ellis.

I will go more in to this story in my next blog entry. Concisely put, this lil’ lass had been eagerly awaiting the arrival of one, Sam U El Flores. Apparently they had arranged for him to draw on her and that she would get that drawing tattooed on her, the following day. Sam made sure to spend some quality time w/ her, to ensure that the drawing didn’t get erased, before it was time to get inked. From what I hear, the tattoo happened. Again, more pics/info later.

After Raydar Ellis played, Top Choice Clique rocked the stage. Not only did they come out on short notice, but they played with one mic even though they’re a crew of 2, who usually spit verses @ the same time. Shortly after they departed the stage, 7L & Esoteric come on, to finish out the night. For a while, I’d thought 7L had been chugging some weird intoxicating concoction over the course of the evening, but then realized that it was tea and honey (straight out the honey bear). Dude was playing with a jacked throat, but managed to slay the audience anyhow. What a muhfuggin' soldier.

The more I watch him paint, the more Alex Pardee kinda scares me.

The next day, we revisited the scene of the defilement.

Finished product.

Snap . . . I almost forgot. Boston giving a little street-level love to an Arlen, TX O.G.

Paris Hilton endorses Anthony Lister

2008-09-22T17:04:00.001-07:00

The reigning heir of, well, something, has endorsed our friend, Anthony Lister. She must have seen his new FIFTY24SF Gallery book, Tales of White Trash Prophecy, that is on sale now in our webstore. Perhaps, she's just down with the Upper Playground vibe. Or she was just jocking the fine art. Who knows with these young, talented folk, right?

And then the Australian newspapers get involved, and the word is officially out in Oceania.

Opening night pics from Upper Playground Seattle

2008-09-21T20:36:00.001-07:00

The jewel of Washington, Seattle, was hopping Friday and Saturday night with the opening festivities of Upper Playground Seattle and FIFTY24SEA. Here are some photos from the Friday night store and galley opening, and thank you to Tyler for photos. On we go . . .

Estevan Oriol signing his UP x Estevan Oriol line "LA Woman" 2009 calendar for a very lucky group of fans.

Estevan talking to LA graffiti artist, Mear One.

A Munk sighting.

And of course, there was art.

An Adam chat.

Mear One.

A store with a view.

Hello.

Mear and Munk put on a live art display on Saturday night.

Estevan made sure the crowd got a signature.

They both know how to do a proper tee shirt design.

An Upper Playground weekend, coast to coast

2008-09-19T09:37:00.001-07:00

First, we got the Upper Playground Seattle and FIFTY24SEA opening tonight, with a special appearance by the greatest street photographer on earth, Estevan Oriol. Estevan will be signing copies of his new calendar, "LA Woman," that we released this past week. Then on Saturday night, we get the live painting going on with Munk and Mear One. Northwest, we got you covered.

Upper Playground Seattle
4730 University Way NE #109
Seattle, Washington

And then, on the East Coast, we got the UP x Juxtapoz x Sparks IGNITE WHAT'S NEXT tour stop, starring Sammy Flores, Alex Pardee, and the tallest man on the UP roster, Nate Van Dyke (sorry Mr. Tarrant). The team will be at Underground Snowboards on Saturday night. Mickey will have all the photos and mayhem from Boston on our blog next week. And, oh yeah, the Nate Van Dyke Pay Day toy, the "Orange" version, was just released. Plenty of art to go around.

Limited "Orange" N8 Van Dyke Pay Day vinyl figure

2008-09-18T09:45:00.001-07:00

The Upper Playground exclusive, limited "Orange" N8 Van Dyke Pay Day vinyl figure is now in our web store. This orange UP limited edition version retails at $60.00. Buy it here. Actually, we have an even better idea. Go to the Upper Playground x Juxtapoz x Sparks Ignite What's Next event in Boston on Saturday, September 20th, at Underground Snowboards, where Nate will be painting live with Sam Flores and Alex Pardee, get on your iPhone, buy the toy online through the WWW, and you are on your way.

Just a reminder, the brown and gray versions of the Pay Day toy each retail for $55 and are available at UP retail stores and online. The glow in the dark toy is available exclusively online and retails for $70.

Upper Playground Seattle Tees & Hoodies

2008-09-18T09:45:00.000-07:00

We got some new tees on their way up to Seattle for our grand opening this Friday and Saturday. Tee #1 is a nice UP spin on a classic logo.

Northfresh. Because it rains.

Like we said, its the weather.

And then a classic Northwestern colorway.

Sfaustina @ UP Sacramento

2008-09-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

Sfaustina is setting up shop for an installation at the Upper Playground Sacramento store. The work will be up through November, so go take a look when you can.

More Choe gems from the Eastern seaboard

2008-09-17T15:01:00.000-07:00

My, what is David doing in NYC?

Upper Playground SEATTLE and FIFTY24SEA Grand Opening

2008-09-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

Upper Playground is opening a new storefront in Seattle’s University District! The new store marks the second Upper Playground retail establishment in the Pacific Northwest after the 2006 opening of Upper Playground Portland and fine art gallery FIFTY24PDX. In celebration of the new store, there will be a variety of events held this weekend, SEPTEMBER 19-20, including live art installations and an in-store appearance by photographer/director Estevan Oriol. Oriol will be signing copies of his 2009 calendar and items from his Estevan Oriol sub-line. An exclusive series of Seattle-inspired apparel designs will also be available.

The Upper Playground store will have a separate space for the art gallery FIFTY24SEA, which is a similar format to many of Upper Playground’s other retail locations. There will be a special art exhibit at FIFTY24SEA featuring the works of Estevan Oriol, Alex Pardee, Munk One, Basco, Mear One, Parskid, Angel 179, and Herbert Baglione.

Friday, September 19, 2008 from 5–10 pm
Grand opening featuring:
-Estevan Oriol in attendance to sign his 2009 calendar at 6 pm
-Music from DJ Neight1000 and Ubiquity Records recording artist Ohmega Watts

Saturday, September 20, 2008
-2–6 pm: In-store live art installation with Munk One and Mear One
-9 pm–2 am: Special event at The Chapel Bar (1600 Melrose Ave, Seattle, WA)
-Music from DJ’s Soul One & SeanCee, Live Art by Mear One
-No cover charge, ages 21 and over only

Upper Playground Seattle
4730 University Way NE #109, Seattle, WA 98105
Store Hours: 11 am–8 pm Monday-Saturday, 12–6 pm Sunday
Phone: (206) 985-1000

East Coast Prepping

2008-09-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

Looks like our friend, David Choe, has been busy at a certain location in the East Village that will see some major action in the coming days. He is a one man art show.

UP x Juxtapoz x Sparks Ignite What's Next: THE ATLANTA AFTERMATH, PART 2

2008-09-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

Here is Part 2 of Mickey's blog from the UP x Juxtapoz x Sparks IGNITE WHAT'S NEXT tour stop last Saturday in Atlanta. Boston is coming up this Saturday, so New Englanders, beware! And we got video up there to make this a 2008 sort of travel journal.

Friday started innocently enough, although it's strange how much N8's head looks like a cue ball.

If you saw these 2 dudes, holding these 2 sticks, walking towards your 1 self, you still wouldn't have to be afraid (despite the fact that they're 30 ft. tall), because they're harmless (most of the time).

This dude, on the other hand...

Saw a write up for the tour that we were on (plus a handsome pic one Mr. Pardee), in the local entertainment rag.

Praying... wait, this isn't a church?

Apparently everyone has different methods for the shocker.

This lovely lass will get a lot more shine, once I get further into my Claremont chronicles. Seems like Sam's pretty tired and N8 is extremely hungry. Must be that long day's work.

This dude was our door guy for the night. He was cool as shit and dealt with getting a packed house in and out as smoothly as possible.

Another huge asset @ Lenny's was Bubba. This dude was climbing through wet tar w/ me, on top of the roof, just to help hang a huge banner. When someone asked what he was getting out of it, he simply said, "Getting to help and be a part of a cool ass show... what's it to you?"

D.R.E.S. tha Beatnik was in the house, hosting the joint, but also throwing out some rhymes when he thought the crowd deserved a little something.

A. Leon Craft was also in effect. He played with Gripplyaz, but also had some time to shine solo.

Raise ya hand up.

What else do you need...sick MC's, a hyped crowd, a DJ, a dude rocking shit on an MPC, + some booty... oh yeah, and Sparks.

Toy & Allana, from Lee Harvey Oswald, getting political.

Don't know their names, but they had just met that night and were already in some very adult talks... serious plans were getting made, right before they asked if they could have their picture taken in front of Sam's canvas.

Bedroom eyes.

Pardee making one of the many ATL Juxtapoz readers happy.

Again, Killer Mike & The Grind Time Rap Gang crushing the crowd... Bang bang!

Here is all of Lee Harvey Oswald, getting cozy, after hours. Thanks again!

A quick flick of the inside mural. The lighting was crap, so I'll have to get you another picture, at some point in the future... keep yer eyes peeled.

The next day, we went to a spot called Vortex for brunch. Due to the Jesus laws, we weren't able to serve us booze, until 11:30am. Since we arrived at approximately 11:15, the following 15 minutes weren't the best. What really got us, was that they'd serve amazing food like this (along with the fried appetizers we got) at any hour, but not let you have a beer/bloody mary with it, until 11:30am. I then realized that it was the Sabbath and they just wanted to be fair to all the god-fearing church folk... I mean, who wouldn't be bummed about other people imbibing, while you're stuck in church.

This seemed like a running theme for the trip and so it only seems fair to include this painted beauty in our blog entry.

While we were in the airport, I asked ol' Sammy Granny-Basket Flores what was the one thing he wished he'd gotten to do in Atlanta, but didn't quite get to... I think he was telling me, "Dirty Sanchez! Dirty Sanchez!" But I'm not quite sure.

Pardee didn't like the Dirty Sanchez answer, or he agreed and was equally sad.

Home sweet home.

Two new books from FIFTY24SF Gallery; Alex Pardee and Anthony Lister

2008-09-16T10:55:00.001-07:00

Tales of White Trash Prophecy, by Anthony Lister
The superhero fine art of Australian-born, New York City-based Anthony Lister has now made it to hardcover, 96-page format. Ranging from fine art portraits of Spiderman and Superman, to live installations involving a captive Batman, Lister’s work has been exhibited across the world, garnering attention for his unique sense of childlike wonderment and immense painting skills. Tales of White Trash Prophecy features photos of Lister’s friends, family, and artwork over the past few years. You can buy it here.

Awful/Homesick, by Alex Pardee
From the twisted artwork of Alex Pardee comes “Awful | Homesick,” a 96-page hardcover collection featuring the fine artists favorite works from 2005 to the present. Mixed with the dark, bizarre, and horror-inspired characters, “Awful | Homesick” also shows Pardee's influences from a comic book and graffiti-inspired childhood, with an exploration into the different styles of line work that he has worked on over the past few years. “Awful | Homesick” features a foreword from Jeben Berg. Now that you know the basics, just remember that the next time you are dreaming of waking up in a pool of your own blood. Remember the man Alex Pardee, because he probably has drawn the scenario better than you can think it. Buy it now.

And while you're at it, there is this lovely Alex Pardee limited deck (only 150 made) that we just released. Might as well get yourself on it.

UP x Juxtapoz x Sparks Ignite What's Next: THE ATLANTA AFTERMATH

2008-09-15T14:57:00.000-07:00

Goddamn....they don't call it the dirty south, for nothin'. Folks are serious about how they party down in Atlanta. We just came back from a very successful first leg of the Ignite What's Next tour, sponsored by Upper Playground, Juxtapoz, and Sparks. A big shout to the artists (N8 Van Dyke, Alex Pardee and ol' Sammy Bad-Hands Flores), the musicians who played at the show (Killer Mike and the Grind Time Rap Gang, Lee Harvey Oswald, A.Leon, Gripplyaz, Trip, and the host, D.R.E.S. tha Beatnik), the Beatchefs and all the folks at Lenny's Bar who helped make the event a success. Also, I can't forget to throw HUGE props to Kathy, who runs the Claremont Lounge and let us take photo/video footage of some of the craziest s**t I've ever seen. Along with that, I need to thank the lovely Claremont ladies, who assisted in making dreams come true. There are hundreds and hundreds of photos to sift through, but here is a small sampling, to give y'all a taste of what ATL had to offer us. Up there, that's the whole crew (L to R...Sam Flores, Alex Pardee and N8), as we prepare to make our first stop, eat our first real meal and drink our first beer in ATL. —Mickey

This was our first stop: The Corner Tavern. ATL Steve immediately hooked it up with info on where to go and who to talk to. Good looking out, Steve. For those of you who have followed Upper Playground for a while, you may recognize Sammy Smooth-Cheeks' vintage U.P. jersey... you also may notice that he tweezes his eyebrows, which we discovered during the trip (sorry Sam).

This is a view from the back of Lenny’s Bar, while the last couple of rays of sun hit the tracks. From here, we headed back to the hotel for a drink and shower, before hitting Atlanta on a Friday night.

This picture wasn’t the best image from the taxi to the Claremont, but it was the only one that came out clearly.

An appropriate face to make, for a non-drinker, upon entrance to The Claremont.

Let the games begin, bitches.

Betcha didn’t know that ol’ Sammy Two-Touch was also a pirate. Of sorts.

Our 3 artists, plus one of theirs.

If you know N8, you know that he’s a little emotionally handicapped, but apparently this handicap isn’t restricted to his sensitive feelings.

Loading canvases in to the whip so we can make our way top Lenny’s Bar and start painting.

Gentlemen . . . start yer engines.

Tools of the trade.

Secret nothings getting whispered.

Pardee's finished canvas. Alex is a weird dude.

The dudes in front of Sam and N8's finished pieces.

D.R.E.S. tha Beatnik reppin’ Juxtapoz.

Gripplyaz was one of the earlier acts, but rolled on to the stage and lit s**t up. Tall and lanky, but smooth as hell.

Lee Harvey Oswald played right before Killer Mike. This crew was about 9 deep and was a perfect blend of well crafted beats, great flows, and 2 sweet dancers. The dancers also need to be thanked for showing 2 members of the UP team a great ending to the evening . . . thanks for the call.

Killer Mike getting introduced by D.R.E.S.

Killer Mike and the Grind Time Rap Gang . . . in a nutshell, they killed it.

Sam and Alex. Friends forever.

Estevan Oriol 2009 LA Woman Calendar now available

2008-09-15T13:08:00.001-07:00

Upper Playground's Estevan Oriol line has just made available the 2009 LA Woman calendar, featuring the photography of famed Los Angeles-based shooter, Estevan Oriol. Its a 12 month calendar, 16" tall x 20" wide. It will fit on your wall quite nicely me thinks. You can buy it here, right now.

Here is your December 2009:

Perhaps March '09 looks better?

And June will start summer off well...

Maxx242 Bearbrick

2008-09-15T11:47:00.001-07:00

Maxx242, Zac Pac Japan, and Medicom Toy developed a limited edition Bearbrick that was released at Zac Pac Japan earlier this year. On Saturday, September 20th, there will be a limited amount released exclusively at The Fast Life store. The Fast Life Store opens at 11am is located at 8101 3rd St in Los Angeles.

UP x Juxtapoz x Sparks Ignite What's Next, tomorrow in Atlanta

2008-09-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

Don't forget. Tomorrow night. Atlanta. Sam Flores, Nate Van Dyke, and Alex Pardee. Painting live. Lenny's Bar. 10PM. Attend.

Upper Playground x Digital Gravel x Obama Tee Shirts

2008-09-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

In an ongoing effort to secure Democratic hopeful Barack Obama's presidential bid, Upper Playground and Digital Gravel, the premier online store for urban apparel brands, have partnered to produce a limited-edition line of Obama t-shirts featuring selective artwork from the Upper Playground x Barack Obama print series.

The Upper Playground x Digital Gravel t-shirt collaboration is part of an ongoing series from Upper Playground of artist collaborations in support of Obama's presidential campaign. Upper Playground has endorsed Obama's campaign by creating prints featuring artwork from David Choe, Grotesk, Justin Bua, The Date Farmers, Munk One, Ron English, Alex Pardee, Morning Breath, Mac, Sam Flores and Mear One, in addition to printing t-shirts with Shepard Fairey's Obama graphics to help support the campaign. Upper Playground was also instrumental in providing artwork for the Manifest Hope Gallery exhibition in Denver, Colorado that coincided with the Democratic National Convention last month.

The Obama graphic t-shirts will showcase the sold out poster designs created by The Date Farmers, Munk One, Sam Flores, Alex Pardee, Grotesk, Morning Breath, and Ron English via Upper Playground. Under 300 t-shirts were made for each graphic, and the retail price for each t-shirt is $20. All t-shirts will be available in men’s and women’s sizes. The new merchandise will be available exclusively at DigitalGravel.com.

All proceeds from the sales of the t-shirts will go directly towards creating new promotional projects in support of Obama's bid for President up until the election in November.

Herakut in Norway

2008-09-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

Remember when Hera of Herakut was exhibited at the FIFTY24SF Gallery a few months back? Those were great times back then. Now, via Wooster Collective, we see Herakut have made it up to Norway.

Aesop Rock gets a rave review

2008-09-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

Our good friend, Aesop Rock, who is a contributing editor on our web magazine, The Citrus Report, has been touring the United States recently, and made his way to his old stomping grounds of Brooklyn, NY, for a show. Since we have been in a New York state of mind in recent days (sorry, NaS reference in an Aesop post), we wanted to guide you to a review of the show on the ever-popular site, PopMatters.

Read his interviews with porn queen Sasha Grey, Del the Funky Homosapien, and Ben Colen from the Citrus Report.

Photo: Chrissy Piper

Mr Jago @ Stolenspace Gallery, London

2008-09-10T17:50:00.000-07:00

Mr Jago has his first solo show in London, "Cloud Talk," opening this Friday, September 12, at Stolenspace Gallery. If you happen to be eating some mighty fine curry on Brick Lane, you should head on over, catch some fine art, and impress some people on Saturday morning when they ask of your previous evening's travels.

There will be new work on canvas, silk, wood, and perhaps an installation or two, as well as the release of a new limited edition screen print. Busy times for Jago.

Tree-sitters . . .. away!

2008-09-10T13:12:00.001-07:00

The UP Berkeley store stands a stone's throw from the now infamous and packing their bags tree sitters. Well, not a stone's throw, but a slight walk of around 5-7 minutes. JP went a took some shots of the scene yesterday, as disaster fell upon the young kids who called the tree home for nearly two years. We applaud the effort, but can we have a Rose Bowl team now, please?

UP should have sponsored the sitters. They were getting more press than McCain before this whole Alaska business. They could have worn the Berkeley Radicals tee, it would have been great. We still miss Mario Savio.

Look, the cops are getting near! Climb higher!

Top of the tree! Nobody can see us here.

Oh wait, yes they can. We're done.

How do we get down? Maybe if they cut the tree down we can reach the ground easier. Off to bother more institutions.

Jeff Soto's "Storm Clouds"

2008-09-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

Look what Jeff Soto sent us this morning; images of his new hardcover collection, "Storm Clouds." Here is the official verbiage for the book:

"Jeff Soto's, second installment, 'Storm Clouds,' features paintings that evolve beyond the robotic characters featured in the sold out, "Potato Stamp Dreams." "Storm Clouds" captures new painted territory that record Jeff's concerns for the well being of his family, the fragile condition of politics, the changing forces of nature and moments for personal exploration and experimentation. This hard cover volume features 154 pages, specialty printing techniques and over 264 high-quality, full color images. Featured commentary provided by David Choe, Peter Frank (Senior Curator of Riverside Art Museum), Jeff Soto and Mark Murphy. The Riverside Art Museum and the James Irvine Foundation provided initial support, as they will be featuring Jeff in his first museum show in December of 2008."

Museum show? Nice Jeff. Also this Sunday, Jeff will be signing copies of "Storm Clouds" at the Laguna Art Museum. Chris Mars will signing his new book as well. Sunday art time!

Jeff Soto / Chris Mars book signing at Laguna Fine Art Museum:
Sunday, September 14th, 3PM - 6PM
featuring: Jeff Soto- "Storm Clouds" and Chris Mars- "Tolerance"

A Sunday with Alex Pardee

2008-09-09T17:05:00.000-07:00

As most of North America knows, the UP flagship store on Fillmore Street housed an Alex Pardee book signing this past Sunday. And here are some photos from the afternoon, all shot by Patrick Kawahara. Up there, Alex is signing a Juxtapoz poster.

This is a cool story; all of the girls in the shot with Alex were there to honor their fallen brother/boyfriend/friend that was a huge fan of Alex's work. Pretty great stuff.

A fan patiently waiting for Alex to work out her name.

The line, on Fillmore Street.

Alex signing his new limited UP deck, that you can buy here.

Morning Breath wine labels for Luchador Shiraz

2008-09-09T14:37:00.001-07:00

Just when you thought it could only happen in Napa . . . or Sonoma, Santa Barbara, Chile, Spain, or Italy, Brooklyn-duo Morning Breath just designed these wine labels for Luchador Shiraz. Nice job. And while you are drinking your shiraz, you can wear this tee.

In a land far far away

2008-09-09T13:07:00.001-07:00

A Walrus is being born. Miguel, hope the trip is going well. Amtrak and all....

Estevan Oriol hard at work in Panama

2008-09-09T08:50:00.001-07:00

Estevan Oriol just hanging out in Panama. Nothing to see here. But there are things to see here; new tees in for the Estevan Oriol Fall/Winter 2008 line.

Justin Bua x Upper Playground x Obama limited poster

2008-09-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

In an ongoing effort to secure Democratic hopeful Barack Obama's presidential bid, fine artist Justin Bua is the latest artist to partner with Upper Playground to produce a Barack Obama print. Justin Bua has gained international acclaim with his raw depictions of urban street life, hip-hop, and jazz musicians. His posters are best-sellers in the US and Canadian college markets.

You can buy it here.

Justin Bua’s Barack Obama posters are part of an ongoing series from Upper Playground of artist collaborations in support of Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Upper Playground has endorsed Obama's campaign by creating posters featuring artwork from David Choe, Grotesk, The Date Farmers, Munk One, Ron English, Alex Pardee, Morning Breath, Mac, Sam Flores and Mear One, in addition to printing T-shirts with Shepard Fairey's Obama graphics to help support the campaign.

There are 200 prints made that are signed and numbered, and retail for $200. The limited-edition 18" x 24" print is available exclusively online. Please note: prints will not ship until October 8, 2008.

All proceeds from the sales of the poster will go directly to creating more campaign t-shirts, posters, and stickers by other artists in support of Obama's bid for President. Stay tuned to a new Upper Playground project in support of Barack Obama to be announced later this month.

About Justin Bua
For over a decade, artist Justin Bua has been making a mark on popular culture with his unique style of “Distorted Urban Realism,” single-handedly spearheading a new genre of art. He created numerous CD covers for companies such as Warner Bros., Atlantic Records, Sony Music and BMG Music, as well as advertising work for clients like Weiden+Kennedy and The Nike Corporation. In 1999, BUA animated the opening title sequence for MTV's “The Lyricist Lounge Show.” Then, in a process that took over two years, BUA conceived, created and wrote “Urbania”, an animation series for Comedy Central. BUA went on to develop the characters and backgrounds for the EA Sports video game, “NBA Street” and “NFL Street”. Bua’s audience is a diverse group that ranges from street kids to former US Presidents, graffiti writers to fine art connoisseurs, rap fans to jazz aficionados. His posters are best-sellers in the US and Canadian college markets. Please visit www.justinbua.com for more information.

A Seattle Sonic

2008-09-06T18:03:00.001-07:00

When Seattle ruled the Bay, but we may make amends....

REMINDER: Alex Pardee book signing this Sunday, September 7, Upper Playground on Fillmore

2008-09-05T09:27:00.001-07:00

If you attended the Catalyst show last night, cheers to you, and if you didn't, well, you missed out.

But this Sunday, you have a project; get yourself an Alex Pardee x UP skate deck and come on down to UP on Fillmore Street.

Illustrator Alex Pardee will be signing his new skate deck and advance copies of his book titled “Awful Homesick" this Sunday, September 7, 2008 at Upper Playground’s flagship store in San Francisco. The "Awful Homesick" book will not be formally released to the masses until later this month, so not only is this a sneak peak, you get the book early. You will be the originator.

You can check out the Facebook invite for more details.

Date/Time:
Sunday, September 7, 2008 from 2–4 pm

Address:
Upper Playground
220 Fillmore St. (at Haight St.)
San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-861-1960

Catalyst show tonight at FIFTY24SF Gallery

2008-09-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

And here is a little sneak peek at a 'zine that is being born out of the Catalyst show, opening tonight at FIFTY24SF from 7-9:30PM. If you can't make the opening, it will be up until the 25th September, so don't get all bent out of shape if you have a recital or piano lessons. Aaron Horkey, Aaron Turner, Josh Graham, Seldon Hunt, Justin Bartlett, Stehen Kasner, Dwid Hellion, and Florian Bertmer are all in the show.

New Catalyst tee by Aaron Horkey

2008-09-03T18:58:00.000-07:00

Just in case you can't make it to the "Catalyst" show opening tomorrow night, you can still be part of the whole episode by purchasing the brand-spanking new Aaron Horkey designed tee in conjunction with the group show. That's right, the finest of fine artists contributed to the UP Premium line with a nice tee that will remind everyone of a September in 2008, or just another addition to the Horkey fandom.

Buy it here.

Preparation for Catalyst at FIFTY24SF Gallery, September 4, 2008

2008-09-03T16:53:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow night at FIFTY24SF Gallery in SF, the "Catalyst" show is opening. It's not just one artist but a bunch, including Aaron Horkey, Josh Graham, Aaron Turner, Seldon Hunt, Justin Bartlett, Stephen Kasner, Dwid Hellion, and Florian Bertmer. Big up to Brett Aronson for curating the show.

The “Catalyst” group show will be on display at FIFTY24SF Gallery from September 4–25, 2008.

On with the pics.

The show logo. See more details about the Catalyst tee tomorrow.

A corner of Horkey art.

Aaron Turner.

Florian Bertmer.

Seldon Hunt.

Stephen Kasner.

Stephen and Justin, prepping, chatting, getting it together.

Herbert Baglione in Denmark

2008-09-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

As a precursor to a major solo show in London at Lazarides Gallery this November, Sao Paulo's Herbert Baglione is in Denmark right now making the Scandinavian nation look even more beautiful. Take a look at the pictures that he sent us....

A Move Eastward

2008-09-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

Somewhere, somehow, a story is beginning on the Amtrak lines of the United States of America.

September New Eras Revealed

2008-09-01T21:35:00.001-07:00

This month’s Upper Playground New Eras include designs from Jeremy Fish and Denis Kennedy. Each hat retails for $45. You can find them at UP stores and online.

Get your Fish skull cap here

Stock up now

Go here to show your UP team spirit

Obama Fiat by Boogie

2008-08-31T22:04:00.000-07:00

Is there a chance that even Obama runs a Fiat car dealership in Mexico City? We just got this shot from Boogie, and it makes us wonder.

Posse on Broadway

2008-08-31T08:28:00.000-07:00

Just a little something we have been using as inspiration around the office these days. This and getting tips from "The Glove" on where to eat.

10.Deep sample sale

2008-08-29T17:34:00.001-07:00

Twelve Grain on Run's House

2008-08-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

Jo Jo flossin’ a tee by Mr. Sam Flores on this week’s episode of Run’s House.

You can watch it for yourself here at the 3:54 and 2:27 minute marks.

New Obama Stickers from Munk One

2008-08-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

Munk One has a new Obama print in sticker form. The “Yes We Can” sticker is available on his site and all proceeds will be donated to the Obama campaign. Minnesotans, be sure to grab one to display on the bumper of your car, skate deck, bike, or head next week. As you may recall, Munk One designed the sold out print below for the Obama campaign earlier this year. He is also currently exhibiting new works at FIFTY24LA Gallery in L.A. with Patrick Martinez.

Munk One's Obama Print for Upper Playground

Anthony Lister in London

2008-08-28T15:32:00.000-07:00

Anthony Lister was in London this past January and painted this piece on a rooftop with artist, Sickboy. Then Lister goes back to London for his show this month at Elms Lester with WK Interact, and the building had since burned down but the painting survived. Kind of crazy. This is what Anthony refers to as a "Floater."

Joey Garfield, co-director of The Run Up, has a new video

2008-08-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

Joey Garfield, the co-director of The Run Up, has a new music video out that he created for Langhorne Slim. Check out the dope wood creature/guy/dude/thing.

Paul Insect "Poison" Show opening September 12 in London

2008-08-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

Paul Insect, who has done some tees with FIFTY24SF in the past, has a new show opening off site from Lazarides in London on September 12-21. The show is a site specific installation in an old Bath House in the King's Cross area of London, which is like the Tenderloin in SF . . . should be great stuff.

Jeremy Fish's Skate Deck Package and Barry the Beaver

2008-08-28T06:39:00.000-07:00

Check out this pleasurable footage of a recent Barry the Beaver signing at Good Vibrations in San Francisco. Barry the Beaver’s creator Jeremy Fish, was on hand for an in-store signing. There are still a few Barry the Beavers for sale, in addition to other items from Jeremy’s SuperFishal line including an exclusive package of three Fish signed skate decks, his book “Once Upon a Time,” and a fresh New Era hat that will be released along with two other New Eras next week.

Limited edition skate decks, signed by Fish

Catalyst Group Show at FIFTY24SF Gallery

2008-08-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

Join us on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2008 from 7-9:30 pm at FIFTY24SF Gallery in San Francisco for the opening reception of “Catalyst,” a group exhibition that will include eight of today’s most prominent visual artists from the abrasive music community.

The exhibit will bring together an underground community of artists in which aural and visual expressions converge. Artwork on display will comprise of a wide source of media, including new two-dimensional paintings, drawings, video installations, screen prints as well as an installation of seminal works from each of the artists’ extensive catalogues.

Artists Included: Aaron Turner, Josh Graham, Seldon Hunt, Stephen Kasner, Aaron Horkey, Florian Bertmer, Justin Bartlett and Dwid Hellion. The “Catalyst” group show will be on display at FIFTY24SF Gallery September 4 – 25, 2008.

Alex Pardee In-Store Signing at UP

2008-08-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

Illustrator Alex Pardee will be signing his new skate deck and advance copies of his book titled “Awful Homesick" on Sunday, September 7, 2008 at Upper Playground’s flagship store in San Francisco.

Pardee’s unique artistic style draws upon influences ranging from horror films to graffiti. His work has been described as representing a circus sideshow cemetery, combining random shapes and colors with torment and absurdity.

You can check out the Facebook invite for more details.

Date/Time:
Sunday, September 7, 2008 from 2–4 pm

Address:
Upper Playground
220 Fillmore St. (at Haight St.)
San Francisco, CA
Phone: 415-861-1960

Pardee practicing his signing skills

Video from Manifest Hope Featuring Fairey, Spurlock

2008-08-26T10:39:00.000-07:00

Guardian cartoonist Steve Bell visits Manifest Hope, a Denver event inspired by the Democratic presidential contender. Click here to watch the video that features artwork on display at the gallery, interviews with Shepard Fairey and filmmaker Morgan Spurlock.

Photos from The Manifest Hope Gallery in Denver

2008-08-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

David Choe (and Sam Flores in the background)

Sam Flores and David Choe collaborating

Ron English wearing and in front of his signature Abraham Obama print

Mac and David Choe on a Denver rooftop

Shepard Fairey in front of his giant piece in Denver

Sam Flores stands in front of his masterpiece

Morgan Spurlock of Super Size Me and 30 Days fame stops by to check out the action

James Brason x Deluxe Store

2008-08-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

James Brason will be having a show at Deluxe in San Francisco. The opening reception is Sept. 4th from 5-8 pm.

Date Farmers at DNC

2008-08-23T22:35:00.000-07:00

Here are the Date Farmers getting some well deserved rest after painting at the Upper Playground x Obey sponsored Barack Obama art exhibit at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado. The photo was taken by none other than Mr. Sam Flores. The DNC starts Monday in the Mile High City.

Sam Flores Checking in From Denver

2008-08-22T14:33:00.000-07:00

This just in from Sam Flores...

Juxtapoz' NYC Graffiti Special Issue

2008-08-22T10:25:00.000-07:00

We just got our copy of the September Juxtapoz, which is a special issue dedicated to New York City Graffiti. Not bad with the Seen cover, plus features on Seen, Quik, Ket, Haze, Lady Pink, Ghost, Crash, Cycle, Revolt, Freedom, and a nice interview with KR of Krink as well.

Ah, and a nice KR cover for the subscribers. Abstract and sweet.

Sam Flores & David Choe at Work in Denver

2008-08-20T22:42:00.001-07:00

Sam Flores paints a new piece for The Manifest Hope Gallery

David Choe works on a new Obama masterpiece in Denver

Video from "Righteous Kill" Event

2008-08-20T22:17:00.000-07:00

SA Studios sent over video from the Righteous Kill launch party in Downtown Los Angeles last Wednesday. Over 900 people came through in 3 hours. Estevan Oriol, Cobra, Danny Trejo, Jerry Heller, Rohan Marley, and DJ Muggs are featured in this clip.

David Choe in Denver

2008-08-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

This just in...David Choe has started his Obama portrait for The Manifest Hope Gallery. Did you get your Choe print today? Better hurry...they're almost sold out.

David Choe x Barack Obama Prints x DNC

2008-08-20T06:10:00.000-07:00

Fine artist David Choe is the latest artist to partner with Upper Playground to produce not one, but TWO Barack Obama prints. Choe has designed and produced apparel, adidas sneakers, comic books, movie posters, album covers, fine art books and toys, among many other projects. He is currently the star of a documentary about his life in the film Dirty Hands.

David Choe’s Barack Obama posters are part of an ongoing series from Upper Playground of artist collaborations in support of Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Upper Playground has endorsed Obama's campaign by creating posters featuring artwork from Grotesk, The Date Farmers, Munk One, Ron English, Alex Pardee, Morning Breath, Mac, Sam Flores and Mear One, in addition to printing T-shirts with Shepard Fairey's Obama graphics to help support the campaign.

There were 200 prints made that are signed and numbered of each design, and each poster retails for $200. The limited-edition 18"X24" print is available exclusively online. Go HERE and HERE to buy yours now (please note: prints will not ship until Oct. 15, 2008).

All proceeds from the sales of the poster will go directly to creating more campaign t-shirts, posters, and stickers by other artists in support of Obama's bid for President.

Choe's statement about his vision for these prints:

I'm just an artist. All I do is paint pretty pictures, and sometimes when I go someplace and the Asian kids recognize me they project all their hopes and dreams on me like I was the next coming of Bruce Lee, like I’m a role model, and I start to get stressed out. I'm just an artist.

Obama might soon be the most powerful man in the world. That's heavy. I’m not really a political person, but our country is in such a mess, and if Obama gets elected next, I can’t even believe the pressure this guys gonna be under. He’s gotta carry the weight of the world on his shoulders and lead the entire nation. Millions will look up to him, while others will look down on him under close scrutiny. This society we live in just waits for people to fall, so they can point and laugh at our imperfections on late night TV.

So I was looking at this newspaper of a profile of Obama's head, and looking at a globe in my room, and I was thinking of an atlas kind of image with Obama carrying the world on his shoulders. He’s gonna have to become like a superhero to get us through this, but this battle is not so much physical in that it's more mental. It was late at night and my eyes were getting kind of blurry and I noticed Florida all the way to the bottom tip of Texas on my globe – looked like they followed Obama's hairline on his side profile. I sketched out Obama on the computer and put a map of the U.S. around his head, and it fit perfectly. America with all its ills and beauty, with all its economic, racial, religious, and political problems weighing heavy on Obama's mind, but for the first time, in a very long time, there seems like there's hope.
-David Choe

Upper Playground x Democratic National Convention

Upper Playground is partnering with Shepard Fairey, MoveOn.org and Evolutionary Media Group on a special exhibit at the Democratic National Convention in Denver. The Manifest Hope Gallery will showcase both established and emerging artists and present the most widely recognized pieces seen throughout the 2008 presidential primary campaign, as well as newly commissioned works and previous works on loan from some of the United States’ top artists.

Featured artists at the exhibit will include Shepard Fairey and many of the artists that have designed Obama posters via Upper Playground including Sam Flores, Mac, Ron English, David Choe, The Date Farmers, and Justin Bua (his print will be available soon). Other artists include Chris Pastras, Mel Kadel, Todd Lockwood, Maya Hayuk, Cathie Bleck, CRO (Go Tell Mama), Evan Hecox, Lukas Ketner, Gary Baseman, Scot Lefavor, Lisa Congdon, Amy Martin, and many more. Resident DJ Jeremy Sole will on hand all week to inspire music inside the art galleries.

Where/When:
The Manifest Hope Gallery will be open to the public in Denver, CO at the Democratic National Convention, between Sunday August 24th, 2008 and Thursday, August 28th, 2008 from 10:00 am–5:00 pm daily. Housed within the Andenken Gallery (2990 Larimer St., Denver, CO 80205) and an additional adjacent warehouse. The Manifest Hope Gallery spans 10,000 sq. ft. and will draw together a works as varied as the voices of the artists who created them.

On Wednesday, August 27th at 6:00 pm, Manifest Hope and partner San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom will host Unconventional '08 with musical performances on an outdoor stage to feature artists such as: Silversun Pickups, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Cold War Kids, Nada Surf and DJ Z Trip. Tickets are free and a limited amount will be available by visiting Manifest Hope Gallery in Denver. Additionally, there will be an intimate invite only VIP performance songwriter in the round performance featuring Ben Gibbard of Death Cab For Cutie, Jenny Lewis of Rilo Kiley, Zooey Deschanel of She and Him, Matthew Caws of Nada Surf and singer/songwriter Jonathan Rice.

Are you a "Fan" of Upper Playground on Facebook?

2008-08-19T21:09:00.001-07:00

For all you Facebook junkies, be sure to check out Upper Playground's new Facebook page. There's also a new Facebook page for FIFTY24SF Gallery.

Mike Maxwell Showing at Gallery 3

2008-08-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

This Thursday, Aug. 21st is the opening reception for Mike Maxwell’s new work at Gallery Three in San Francisco. The reception will be from 7-11 pm. Mike exhibited at FIFTY24PDX Gallery in Portland earlier this year.

Ignite What's Next Art Tour

2008-08-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

As a follow up to last year’s inaugural "Ignite What's Next” art tour from Sparks, Juxtapoz and Upper Playground, this year’s three-city tour will feature the talents of Alex Pardee, N8 Van Dyke and Sam Flores.

The events will showcase live paintings by these top contemporary artists. Each event will also include performances by progressive up-and-coming DJs for a mix-up of art, music and culture. Live art installations will take place at a variety of venues, ranging from urban boutiques to bars and nightclubs in Boston, Phoenix and Atlanta.

Locations / Dates:
Atlanta: Saturday, September 13, 2008 at 10 pm - LENNY’S BAR

Boston: Saturday, September 20, 2008 at 2 pm (daytime event in the street) – UNDERGROUND SNOWBOARDS

Phoenix: Friday, Saturday, Oct 3-4, 2008 at 10 pm – THE MARQUEE THEATRE

Photos from FIFTY24SF Show

2008-08-18T09:48:00.001-07:00

Below are photos from the current show at FIFTY24SF Gallery featuring Basco Vazko, Jesse Reno, Keith Shore and Marco Zamora courtesy of Fecal Face. Marco Zamora also has photos on his blog. You can see their works for yourself until August 28th.

More Photos from New FIFTY24LA Show

2008-08-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Munk One for the following photos from his new show at FIFTY24LA Gallery with Patrick Martinez. Check out his website for more images.

Photos from Last Night's Opening at FIFTY24LA Gallery

2008-08-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

FIFTY24LA Gallery was packed last night for the opening reception of Patrick Martinez and Munk One. Their works will be on display until Oct. 4, 2008.

Retna and Patrick Martinez

Patrick Martinez Prints

Munk One next to the Beast

Munk One's adorable little girl and his #1 fan

Maya Hayuk Interview

2008-08-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

Check out this new Etsy interview with muralist, photographer and painter Maya Hayuk where you'll learn how she began her artistic career, hear her describe her artistic vision, and you can see her vagina butterfly.

Photos from “Righteous Kill” Event in L.A.

2008-08-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday night SA Studios hosted a VIP tribute event honoring film legends Al Pacino and Robert De Niro in anticipation of their upcoming film together called Righteous Kill. Tattooist Mister Cartoon and photographer/director Estevan Oriol designed the film’s poster. The space is filled with Pacino and De Niro’s most iconic film memorabilia, including plasma screens throughout the place showcasing Oriol and Cartoon’s favorite scenes from Pacino and De Niro’s film repertoire and a customized movie poster wall of the actors’ film history.

Crowds of folks lined up at the corner of East 6th and Los Angeles in Downtown L.A. to get a sneak preview of the space and check out next door neighbors The Last Laugh (Estevan Oriol and Mister Cartoon’s storefronts) and Upper Playground.

Attendees were treated to a catered taco station and hot dog stand, adult beverages and music from DJ Skee. Noted guests in attendance included Danny Trejo, Clifton Collins Jr., Jacob Vargas, DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill, Rohan Marley, and Latin hip-hop artist Malverde.

Come check out a tribute to De Niro and Pacino:
The Righteous Kill space is now open to the public though September 15, 2008. The hours are noon–8 pm, Tuesday–Saturday.

Address:
The Righteous Kill Space (Next door to Upper Playground & The Last Laugh)
131 East 6th Street
(Located between Los Angeles Street and Main Street in the Santa Fe Loft Building)
Los Angeles, CA 90014

Photos by DC Chavez.

Tonight: FIFTY24LA Gallery Opening for Munk One and Patrick Martinez

2008-08-14T17:35:00.001-07:00

Don't forget. Tonight is the opening reception for new works from Munk One and Patrick Martinez. The festivities begin at 7 pm and will last until about 9:30 pm. FIFTY24LA Gallery is located within the Upper Playground LA store on 125 E. 6th St. in Downtown LA. See you there.

New Work from Ethos

2008-08-14T16:41:00.000-07:00

Below are photos from Brazilian street artist Ethos’ latest project in Sao Paulo. Ethos will have a show at FIFTY24SF Gallery in 2009 with artist Hush.

Now Open: Righteous Kill Space

2008-08-14T15:19:00.000-07:00

Today marks the opening of the new Righteous Kill space next to Upper Playground, Estevan Oriol and Mister Cartoon’s storefronts in the Skid Row area of Downtown L.A.

Here are the details…

Store hours:
Tuesday–Saturday from Noon–8 p.m.
Open now until September 15, 2008

Address:
131 East 6th Street
(Located between Los Angeles Street and Main Street in the Santa Fe Loft Building)

Los Angeles, CA 90014

MVP Barack Obama

2008-08-13T06:36:00.000-07:00

Swiss graphic artist and current Brooklyn resident Grotesk has partnered with Upper Playground to produce an exclusive Barack Obama print. In the last decade Grotesk has developed a passion for folk art, street photography, hand-painted signs, vintage sport graphics, old school hip-hop music and urban anthropology.

Grotesk’s Barack Obama poster is part of an ongoing series from Upper Playground of artist collaborations in support of Barack Obama's presidential campaign. Upper Playground has endorsed Obama's campaign by creating posters featuring artwork from The Date Farmers, Munk One, Ron English, Alex Pardee, Morning Breath, Mac, Sam Flores and Mear One, in addition to printing T-shirts with Shepard Fairey's Obama graphics to help support the campaign.

There were 200 prints made that are signed and numbered, but only 30 prints will be available for sale and each poster retails for $200. The limited-edition 18"X24" print is available exclusively online.

All proceeds from the sales of the poster will go directly to creating more campaign t-shirts, posters, and stickers by other artists in support of Obama's bid for President.

Stay tuned for details on a large-scale art exhibit that Upper Playground will be involved with at the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Nothin' but butta

Patrick Martinez & Munk One Prepare for LA Show

2008-08-12T21:28:00.001-07:00

Below are images from Munk One and Patrick Martinez setting up their exhibit at FIFTY24LA Gallery. The opening reception is this Thursday from 7-9:30 pm.

Mac has a New Blog

2008-08-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

Check out graffiti artist Mac's new blog. Below is a mural he recently did in San Francisco.

Righteous Kill Store Opening this Week

2008-08-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

Upper Playground, celebrity tattoo artist Mister Cartoon, and photographer and director Estevan Oriol recently opened a series of four distinct retail locations in the Skid Row area of Downtown Los Angeles, including a pop up store that features a rotating theme of unique fashion and art concepts for short periods of time.

Beginning on Thursday, August 14th (the same day as Patrick Martinez and Munk One's opening at FIFTY24LA Gallery), the pop up space will be transformed into a tribute to film legends Al Pacino and Robert De Niro as part of their upcoming feature film from Overture Films titled Righteous Kill.

SA Studios Global, the creative agency of Oriol and Cartoon, was selected to create the film’s iconic poster, in addition to managing the street marketing for the movie. The pop up space will become the exclusive promotional headquarters for Righteous Kill and feature a tribute to the film’s stars. Highlights of the space include a customized movie poster wall of all of De Niro and Pacino’s films and plasma screens throughout the room showcasing Oriol and Cartoon’s favorite scenes from Pacino and De Niro’s film repertoire.

In celebration of the film, SA Studios Global has also collaborated with Upper Playground to create limited edition Righteous Kill apparel that will be distributed to key influencers in a variety of markets.

Check out images of the film poster and tees below.

Whatcha Know About Volleyball?

2008-08-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

We thought it was just a game that they made you play in grammar school but motherfuckers be playing it for blood.

FIFTY24LA Gallery: Patrick Martinez & Munk One

2008-08-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

FIFTY24LA Gallery in association with Upper Playground presents new works from Patrick Martinez and Munk One.

Opening Reception:

Thursday, August 14, 2008 @ 7-9:30 p.m.

The artists will be attending the opening and their works will be on display from August 14, 2008 to October 4, 2008.

FIFTY24LA Gallery at Upper Playground:
125 E. 6th Street (between S. Main St. and S. Los Angeles St.)

Los Angeles, CA 90014

J-Chill Filming ESPN Segment

2008-08-11T21:28:00.000-07:00

Josh Childress, Stanford All American, Pac 10 player of the year in 2004, and first round pick in the 2004 NBA draft prepares for his recent interview on ESPN’s Pardon the Interruption. In July, Childress signed an unprecedented $20 million net deal for 3 years with the Olympiacos in the Greek league.

Sam Flores at UP San Francisco

2008-08-11T18:37:00.000-07:00

Crowds of folks lined up at Upper Playground’s flagship store in San Francisco yesterday to see Sam Flores and have him sign some Twelve Grain merchandise and his sweet new adidas.

Congratulations to, Basco, Jesse Reno, Marco Zamora and Keith Shore

2008-08-09T14:39:00.000-07:00

If you missed the opening reception this past Thursday for Largo dia Jueves by Basco Vazko and Linear Abandon by Jesse Reno, Keith Shore and Marco Zamora, make sure to stop by and see it before it comes down. The shows are running through August 28th. Basco also debuted his new book "Donde Esta Mi Corazon?", which is available here.

Jesse Reno

Mural by Marco Zamora

Marco Zamora

Jesse Reno and Lana

Mural by Basco

Chilean artist, Basco signing his book

Cody Hudson @ FIFTY24PDX

2008-08-07T09:52:00.000-07:00

The new Cody Hudson show, "Save My Life," is opening tonight in at Upper Playground's FIFTY24PDX in Portland. Go by and check it out. And read Cody's new feature on TheCitrusReport.com, or buy a nice Cody tee from FIFTY24SF if you feel like you're in the mood.

Jesse Reno, Keith Shore, Marco Zamora & Basco Vazko

2008-08-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

FIFTY24SF Gallery presents “Linear Abandon,” a group show featuring the works of Jesse Reno, Keith Shore, and Marco Zamora.

Below are photos of the guys setting up their show for Thursday night's opening.

"Largo dia Jueves" is a solo exhibition by Basco Vazko.

Here are some pics of Basco getting his show ready.

Opening Reception on Thurs. @ FIFTY24SF Gallery

2008-08-05T17:20:00.001-07:00

Painters Jesse Reno, Keith Shore, and Marco Zamora will be featured in the upper level of FIFTY24SF Gallery and Chilean graffiti and street artist Basco Vazko will have a solo show at the ground level of the gallery. Basco Vazko will also be signing copies of his new book titled Donde Esta Mi Corazon?.

Opening reception:

Thursday, August 7, 2008

7:00-9:30 pm

252 & 248 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94117

These artists will be featured at FIFTY24SF Gallery August 7–28, 2008.

Ricky Powell in Action

2008-08-05T12:56:00.000-07:00

Photos by Ale Zuek.