graffiti beach holiday issue 003

GRAFFITi BEACHm a g a z i n e

003Holiday

I n s p I r I n g C r e a t I v I t y

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Illustrators

we love

2012

featuring ilse Valfré

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f i n dsHoliday

- i n s p i r i n g c r e at i v i t y -

GRAFFITi

BEACHf i n dsHoliday


GRAFFITi

BEACH

DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

HolidayShopping

Guide

GRAFFITi BEACH

AvAilAble At ShopGrAffitibeAch.com or in-Store 2220 fern St., SAn DieGo cA

biKe // beAtrice holiDAY: vintAGe biKe bAG/purSe $68, SeAt cover $24, Set $88 AmY // JeDiDiAh: bicYcle crop top $28, beAtrice holiDAY: biKe chAin necKlAce $24 muKee: SKAteboArD peAr eArrinGS $26 continuouS: reD ciGArette pAntS $78

vince // YelloW 108: feDorA $44 urbAn octopuS: thinK tee $32

2012

25

holiday shopping

guide

gb

Dear Readers,

Dreaming of something new is the first step. Acting upon a dream with the first

creative design is the next. And then sharing your work with the world finalizes the

process. These steps are so easy to say and write, and so much harder to do. The

designers, artists, and musicians within these pages have done just that, and we at

Graffiti Beach aim to support the bravery, inspiration, and dreams of these Creatives

and share them with the world.

The goals of our magazine are two-fold. 1) We believe in the artists that we feature,

and we believe in their success. We want to support these Creatives in the advancement

of their careers by celebrating them in this step of the process 2) We are inspired by

true creativity. We love to see new and interesting ways of doing things and we love

to see designs that are eco-friendly and attempt to make new from old. If knowledge

is power then we hope that the knowledge of their work will empower them to create

more, and in turn inspire creativity within others.

Just like Pinterest exposes the viewer to ideas that they might never have seen, and

Facebook connects you with others, our intent is for this magazine to reveal, highlight

and celebrate talent that you might never have known. We aspire to cultivate creativity

by sharing what is unique and trendsetting within the worlds of art, music and fashion

- in the hopes of inspiring you! When we surround ourselves with creativity, and

experience the energy of people following their dreams despite the odds against them,

our world becomes so much more vibrant and beautiful.

Get inspired!

Melanie Michaud Brandie Mata Alana Trevino Itaya

EstElla Park - Coordinator, stylist [email protected]

3

mElaniE miChaud - ownErshoPgraffitibEaCh.Com

- meet the team -gb

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MCassiE kobrin - writEr [email protected]

giovanna avila - bEauty dirECtor

[email protected]

alana trEvino itaya - [email protected]

miChEllE afriCa - stylist

stylEhashtag.Com

garonE afriCa - PhotograPhErgaronEafriCa.Com

JEnna sotElo - EvEnts, salEs [email protected]

CorrinnE bollEndorf - writEr

[email protected]

brandiE mata - CrEativE dirECtor, PartnEr

brandiEmata.Com

susanna liang - Coordinator, CoPy [email protected]

franCEs laCsamana - salEs

[email protected]

laurEn adams - Coordinator, CoPy [email protected] lara tishlEr - writEr

[email protected]

gb

rhoEl Paghunasan - dEsignEr, [email protected]

Erik Cardona - [email protected]

- c

on

tr

ibu

to

rs

-

niColE stEvEnson - writEr

randomniColE.Com

brianna van nEss - writEr

[email protected]

miChElEn muCho - hair

[email protected]

monarosE ryan - [email protected]

alExa magrum - writEr

[email protected]

JEssika lEvinE - PhotograPhEr

[email protected]

Carla kirkPatriCk - makEuP

[email protected]

PEarl thiEnkosol - writEr

[email protected]

linda zirkus - hair & makEuP [email protected]

ariana lEvin - writEr

[email protected]

gb

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MandrEa rEitman - [email protected]

sonya CaldEron - dEsignEr

[email protected]

ana fuEntEs - [email protected]

samia lavEnant - writEr

[email protected]

alEJandra arEnas - dEsignEr

[email protected]

krissy fErnandEz - PhotograPhEr

[email protected]

EilEEn doniEgo dE franCE - writEr [email protected]

Crystal washington - writEr

[email protected] winfrEy - hair [email protected]

linda zirkus - hair & makEuP [email protected]

ariana lEvin - writEr

[email protected]

gb

Dear Readers,

The Holidays are upon us! We continue to see inspiring ideas and passionate

creations here at Graffiti Beach. Isn’t that the true essence of these times together?

We are called to appreciate our blessings, reflect upon the year, and plan towards

the next, all while taking stock of the gifts in our own personal lives.

The blessings of creativity, inspiration, and sheer raw talent are something we

truly treasure. We find ourselves within a community of creative souls that are

constantly striving to make the world a better place, to keep us eco-conscious, to

encourage us to buy local, while enjoying the unique designs of our community.

We are so blessed. As we wish you the Happiest of Holidays, we hope that we

have been able to share these blessings with you. Our goal is to support and

launch these Creatives while sharing their gifts as a gift to you, our readers. Our

hope is that when you sit down and flip through the pages of our magazine, you

feel that same feeling we do when surrounded by creativity. We want you to

know these talented individuals, just as we have gotten to know them, and then

we want you to share them with your friends and family, just as we have shared

them with you. Their beginnings are beautiful and we hope you will help us see

each of them to the next level.

We all seek to share what we have… and this is what we hope to share with you.

Happy Holidays,

Alana Trevino Itaya

Editor-in-Chief

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7

in the

“True artis characterized by

an irresistible urge

creative artist.” - Albert Einstein

sTOLen sUnDAy: infinity Scarf $55COnTinUOUs: Black leggingS $49sHegReeTsTHeDAy: Skull cut Out tOp $35VOeT: leg Bandeaux $18 beATRiCe HOLiDAy: inner tuBe cuff $24, Bike chain cuff $24

gb

fashion

tuneage trends

art

out

diYprofile

give

finds

calendar

feature

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ts

- old kEys and nEw bEginnings by Pearl Thienkosol

a CollaborativE work of art: homE dECor by 8 womEnby alana Trevino iTaya

must shoP indiE onlinEby eileen Doniego De France

foldEd PaPErsby erik carDona

diy magazinE gift bowsby eric yo

Cool CorC- bEyond winE bottlEsby lara Tishler

holiday CoCktailsby brianna van ness

art to ordEr by brianna van ness

havE your art and wEar it tooby cassie korbin

holiday shoPPing guidE

kids roCkby anDrea reiTman

thE bEat of thE hEartby alana Trevino iTaya

bEatriCE holiday goEs roCk ‘n rollby alexa mangrum

bEauty stoPs from la to sdby ariana levin

makE a wishby crysTal WashingTon

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58IllustratIons by: Ilse Valfré

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on the cover


PhotograPhy: KrIssy fernandez

CoordInators: lauren adams and

susanna lIang

haIr: mIsh mucho

MakeuP: carla KIrKpatrIcK

Model/Illustrator: Ilse Valfré

dress by: 8000 nerVes

organiC insPirationby samia lavenanT

thE wow of nativE honEyby eileen Doniego De France

thE swEEt sCEnt of shoEs in thE morningby corrinne bollenDorF

a symbiotiC lovE affairby alexa magrum

PatChwork diyby nicole sTevenson

PatChwork show - PiECEd togEthErby crysTal WashingTon

indiE shoPPing EvEntsby ariana levin

illustrators wE lovE by erik carDona

thE duality of womEn by alana Trevino iTaya

daring to drEam by alana Trevino iTaya

firE in thE hamPtons by corrinne bollenDorF

fortunE 421 runway show

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2012Illustrators

we love 003Holiday


003Holiday


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holiday shopping

guide

Illustrators

we love

2012

Keys are designed to unlock doors. They can also be symbols that represent opportunity, a source for change, or the presentation of a solution. Caitlin Crosby, founder and owner of The Giving Key has created a true “pay it forward” company. Her company embraces a humanitarian perspective while creating jobs and generating a call to action. Her mission empowers and establishes a mindfulness that: “anyone can help someone else”. The Giving Key is a company that uses old keys to create new beginnings. Each key has a special engraving on it with words like “courage”, “breakthrough”, or “passion”, and encourage each wearer to live according to the true meaning of each message. The hope is that one day the wearer passes the necklace on to someone else they feel is in need of encouragement, support, or simply a word imbued with a promise. The message and the key is then passed on from person to person, forming life-to-life bonds, while creating positive change in the world.

In Buddhism, the ideology of living by The Four Virtues reveals the importance of treating others with compassion and appreciation. The Fourth Virtue describes treating those who are less fortunate with pity and kindness. We are to think of such persons as if they were one’s own children, showing them compassion and consideration at all times. The Giving Key began with Caitlin’s eagerness to help others by living the Fourth Virtue. Her desire was to help young

girls with body image issues. She wanted to remind them, through these one of a kind keys, that they themselves are significant and one of a kind. Then one day, after watching a documentary on “Invisible Children” she says, “I was bursting with the feeling that I wanted to do more to help people and change the world.” While walking down Hollywood Boulevard, Caitlin met a homeless couple named Cera and Rob. They were holding a sign that said “Ugly, Hungry, and Homeless”. Caitlin stopped and spent time with the couple and soon realized that Cera and Rob were the missing link - she asked them to be her business partners. As a result, Cera and Rob have been able to put a roof over their heads. Rob received his GED with all A’s, and Cera got a job working at the San Diego Zoo as she works towards her goal to become a massage therapist. Since then, Caitlin has also been able to support 10 people as they change their lives, helping them to get off the streets, while creating autonomous lives through this newfound employment.

Caitlin developed The Giving Key to help others and is now a part of numerous charities, including transitional homes, counseling, schools, and shelters. She also supports various organizations such as “Not For Sale”, “Invisible Children”, “Charity Water”, and “To Write Love On Her Arms”. Hundreds of real-life heartwarming stories can be found on The Giving Key’s website at thegivingkeys.com. These keys can be

found and p u r c h a s e d

on l ine and all across the nation, even finding their way to Japan. They

can be custom made, and have helped support people all over the world. No

matter how young or old a person is, these keys can be the inspiration to living a fulfilling life, and are a reminder that everyone can be a help to someone else.

gb give

WRiTTen by: pearl thienkOSOl DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

OLD KEYSanD newBeginnings


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If Carole’s impeccable taste does not draw you in, then her sweet Southern

accent surely will. Carole Carden is the owner of SoLo, a collective on

Cedros Avenue in San Diego. Carole has taken a circuitous route (including

stops in Paris and time spent as a magazine publisher in Texas) to becoming

the owner of this unique venture, but every step along the way has sharpened

her taste and brought her to this most perfect of spots, in life and location.

SoLo is 4,000 feet of retail perfection and includes 8 spaces with carefully

chosen vendors. Each vendor has their own unique style and each one sticks

wordlessly to it. Realizing that the space inhabited by each vendor is without

walls and meant to come together to create one store, each vendor has their

own unique niche that contributes in it’s own way to the whole.

It began with a love of books that led Carole to open her own bookstore –

Esmerelda’s Books and Coffee in Del Mar, California. Seeking to expand, she

opened a 2nd location in the Cedros Trading Company, a collective of about

40 merchants located in the current building that SoLo now inhabits. As

time went by, her bookstore sadly went the way of most books stores these

days, and was closed. The Cedros Trading Company changed ownership

and was redesigned to accommodate a design studio in back and a 4,000 foot

retail space in the front. Carole stepped in, bringing her favorite merchants

with her, and started a new collective: SoLo. Now it is home to 8 female

merchants, each with their own design sense, handpicked by Carole Carden.

Each vendor collaborates to create a cohesive store that focuses on upscale

home décor, with a focus on design.

Even now, Carole’s books anchor the store. “People walk in and look at the

books. They ground the whole store and help to set the tone.” Each book

has its place. “They are flat or face up on the tables and shelves. No spine

is turned out.” The books, which are largely on design, art and architecture,

send out a very clear message… We are about design,” says Carole.

Carole has a staff of 6 individuals, who have largely been with her since the

beginning - eleven years ago this August. They maintain the space, ring the

purchases, and take care of all the details involved in running a store. The

merchants are asked to be there a few days a week to maintain a connection

with their customers and the ebb and flow of their merchandise. For any

merchant this is an ideal scenario. The collective frees up the time spent on

bookwork and other miscellaneous business oriented tasks. It also allows

them to search for items to sell, items that will represent them and the store

as a whole.

The women are as varied as their merchandise, each choosing distinctive

items to maintain as their own focus. Jennifer Price focuses on industrial

and repurposed design with interesting lighting elements, largely created by

Jennifer and her sister. Sonya Kemp focuses on the children’s section with

edgy and fun items for the younger set. Sharon Wilt’s area of expertise is

Asian with some attention paid to jewelry. She chooses non-mainstream

Asian pieces, focusing largely on Japan. Ruby Lang focuses on vintage

antiques and obscure jewelry and has a huge following. Laurie Graham’s

style is modern British. Adrian Newell sells soaps, candles and gift items.

Beyond the books that she personally sells, Carole also sells modern cards

and children’s books as well as a table top section with placemats, rugs and

glassware. She also has a section that focuses on mid-century furniture. But

the magical thing about SoLo is that it all looks like it came from one buyer.

The styles effortlessly move from genre to genre much as the books do. They

tell a story, the story of Carole and these 7 other women, as they create a

place to make a living from their passions.

When asked if she will ever expand and perhaps open another “SoLo”

Carole quickly dismisses the notion. “ One is enough. We could not

duplicate this location. The merchants and I are all good friends. It is

brilliant. Besides, I like to have a life.”

A CollAborAtive Work of Art:

Home Décor by 8 WomenWRiTTen by: alana trevinO itaya PHOTOgRAPHeD by: garOne africa DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

profile

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modCloth (modCloth.Com):

Timeless, quirky, and classic - ModCloth is the

ultimate e-commerce site for retro clothing,

accessories, and decor. For those looking for a

specific style, from rockabilly dresses, to 90’s

style combat boots, ModCloth does a wonderful

job providing shoppers with both one-of-a-kind

vintage, and vintage inspired items.

Great Prices: 3 stars

emerGinG Brands: 2 stars

80s PurPlE (80sPurPlE.Com):

For chic fashion forward men and women, there

is 80s Purple, an online boutique with pictorials

that ooze style. But it isn’t just their lookbooks

and fashion videos that draws in frequent

shoppers, it is also their selection of hip brands

that street savvy kids know and love (see: Han

Cholo and Wildfox).



stanton JamEs (stantonJamEs.Com):

On point with trends and street looks from LA,

NY, and Europe, Stanton James caters to the

ultimate ‘cool kids’. Stanton James offers indie

brand clothing perfect for those who are a little

rough around the edges and those that have sense

of humor.

Great Prices: 1 star


thrEadsEnCE (thrEadsEnCE.Com):

ThreadSence is all about the free-spirited and

rebellious indie culture. This site satisfies the

fashion aesthetics of the artistically and musically

inclined, or at least those who take a great interest

in it!



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gyPsy warrior (gyPsywarrior.Com):

If you could combine your boho older sister and

punk rock best friend, you’d get Gypsy Warrior - a

site founded by fashion veterans with the afore-

mentioned contradicting styles. Gypsy Warrior

features clothing and accessories that marry the

two styles into one aesthetically pleasing look.



nasty gal (nastygal.Com):

The insanely popular Nasty Gal started from

humble blogger beginnings and is now one of the

first e-destinations for fashion bloggers around the

world. Nasty Gal features indie inspired apparel,

and most recently they have joined the design

game and have brought forth their own clothing

line.



shown to sCalE (showntosCalE.Com):

Shown to Scale isn’t about showcasing trends, they

are about starting them. Their NY boutique and

e-commerce site features both vintage clothing and

clothing that owner, Silke, designs. For those in

search of both unique and timeless items, Shown to

Scale is worth a visit.



graffiti bEaCh (shoPgraffitibEaCh.Com):

Graffiti Beach is a carefully curated boutique and online

shop that features emerging brands and artists. Each

brand and art piece is unique to the store and has its

own story to tell.



f i n dsHoliday


GRAFFITi

BEACH

gb art

The problem with artists is well, we’re artists.

Creators, innovators, originators all suffer from

the same syndrome. We’re all half-brains – with

an intense focus on the right hemisphere. We

don’t balance checkbooks, we get lost with GPS,

and we wear Tom’s shoes because laces confuse

us. But throw us a guitar pick and a typewriter

and we’ll give you ‘Stairway’ and ‘Catcher in

the Rye’. We notoriously fail to have our cake,

and eat it too.

Of course, there’s always the exception.

Graffiti Beach’s featured, and first, ‘Paper Artist,’

loves to have her cake. One of the top 50 in

the world in her craft, Jackie’s artistry flows

back and forth between her Corpus Callosum,

producing an art form both imaginative and

fundamentally sound. “My first paper project

was actually an origami kit. I knew creativity

was an important component to it, but I was

surprised to learn just how much the theory

of it is rooted in math.” Though Jackie’s left

hemisphere appreciated the calculated precision

origami offered, her right side was stifled by

its inelasticity. So she immediately began to

reuse the instructions — bending rules where

she could provide her own touch and sense of

self. “My creations are very much a balancing

act between engineering and art. But the balance

is never 50/50. One has to be dominant over the

other. It may be different every time, but like a

dance, or any good relationship, only one can

lead at a time.”

Though paper artistry is what Jackie is best

known for, it by no means defines her. Her

intense work ethic coupled with a distaste for

the ‘norm’ gives Jackie a myriad of artistic

abilities. “Diversity is extremely important to

me. I was once told that to be a successful artist,

I needed a specialization. But isn’t specialization

just another word for pigeonhole? “Pigeonhole”

is perhaps the only word in the English dictionary

worse than ‘starving’ to an artist. Despite what

Maya Angelo would have you believe, caged

birds don’t sing — they die. Jackie knows

this all too well, having armed herself with

“ FOLDED PAPERS”

Written by: ERIK CARDONA DesigneD by: ALEJANDRA ARENAS

a wide repertoire of artistic outlets including

illustrations, paper sculptures, pop-ups, quills,

and personalized sketchbooks.

Having studied at USC film school and interned

with industry giants Dreamworks and Disney,

the sky is truly the limit for Jackie Huang. Her

dual threat combo of rational and creative

thinking keeps her constantly primed for success.

For proof look no further than her unique

method of networking. Holiday cards. “I realize

for my art to be relevant, I have to be relevant.

What better way to check in with clients, and

simultaneously showcase my latest efforts, than

with a holiday card?” The holidays proved so

innovative that they’ve made Jackie ‘relevant’

to Graffiti Beach. Mission accomplished, girl.

If you would like to get ‘relevant’ with Ms.

Huang’s work, do yourself a favor and grab

these before the holidays - it beats posing in

an ugly sweater.


suPPlIes needed:magazInes (preferably w/ full page

ads or pIctures)

scotch tape (or glue dots)

ruler

exacto KnIfe

patIence (good thIngs and better

bows come to those that waIt)

steP 1:

Cut a magazine page lengthwise into 9

strips, 3/4” wide.

steP 2:

Leave 4 of the strips full length.

steP 3:

Cut one inch off 3 of the strips.

steP 4:

Cut two inches off 2 of the strips.

steP 5:

Twist each strip to form a loop at both ends

and tape in the center.

steP 6:

Shape the 4th long strip will be the center

secure it with tape or a glue dot.

steP 7:

Layer the 3 remaining full length pieces on

top of each other, spacing them evenly and

securing them. Repeat for the smaller pieces.

steP 8:

Finally, stick the loop into the center.

Try experimenting with the order and

positioning of the strips or find and use

images related to the gift it is being used on.

Diy MagazinE BowsConCept by: erIc yo, erIcyo.com

photos by: eIleen donIego de france

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It all began in 2006 with the collaboration of two brothers - Josh and

Larry. Jessica, president and product developer, and wife of Josh,

says that their ultimate goal was to “create useful products out of

an underutilized material - cork.” Thus was the start of the brand

CoolCorC.

The two brothers first started with disposable cork cup sleeves, used

for hot or cold beverages. They wanted to provide an alternative to

traditional paper cup sleeves. Jessica was there, supporting them,

helping at conventions and conferences, and educating attendees

about the history and nature of cork.

Jessica officially joined the design team in 2009, “on a quest with

my husband to make a reusable cork cup sleeve.” They had sourced

samples of cork material in order to discover which would work

best for their design. “I received the samples of cork fabric in 2009.

With my background in knitting, crocheting, sewing, design, and

architecture, my need to create was so overwhelming, I immediately

started sketching,” says Jessica. Cork has many unseen advantages,

and this team looked to capitalize on every single one. They fell in

love with this underused material because of its “texture, suppleness,

and durability.” “After a few prototypes and tests of my own I am

confident in saying that our cork fabric is also water, stain and scratch

resistant. It has a natural insulation, and is a biodegradable material,

making the CoolCorC cup sleeve superior to all others currently

on the market. It wears incredibly well and only gets softer with

use and time. I love all of these qualities of cork fabric, and the

fact that it is a natural material that

is also durable,

supple and

works similar

to leather, just

makes me more

excited to work

with it.”

In addition to it’s workability, Cork

“is sustainably harvested and is also a

regenerative material.” Cork, found in

cork oak forests, is home to a number

of endangered animals. This “rich”

environment is listed as “one of

the most diverse

eco-systems in the

world”, according

to the World Wildlife

Foundation. This is

only one of the many

benefits of this natural

resource. The cork forests

also help to provide tens

of thousands of families

with work, who rely on

the harvesting of cork for

their livelihood. This is a

continuation of a tradition that

has occurred for thousands of

years. Not only does the harvesting of cork help support thousands

of people, it also helps the tree itself by prolonging the life of the tree.

“Fascinating and completely counterintuitive from how we think of

the majority of trees, Cork trees are not endangered, and are actually

thriving. There is no shortage of cork. The only way cork trees can

be endangered is if we stop harvesting and using cork,” says Jessica.

In 2010 CoolCorC decided to take a step forward in the world of

cork by branching into other products other than their cup sleeves.

They debuted their first line of cork accessories. They started selling

their products at their local Farmer’s Market to test the level of

desirability. The demand for their eco-friendly and fashionable

products was overwhelming. “People loved our designs, and most of

all… they loved cork!” explains Jessica.

Harvestable cork forests are only found in the mediterranean and in China - the largest exporters are

Portugal and China. We source our cork fabric from China.{ {

CoolCorCWritten By: lara tiShler deSigned By: Brandie Mata

B e y o n d W i n e B o t t l e s


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WRiTTen & PHOTOgRAPHeD by: Brianna van neSS DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

f i n dsHoliday


GRAFFITi

BEACH

17

HolidayCocktails

Burnished orange hues fill the sky. Lakes ice over in

shades of sapphire, and frosty winds whisper that

winter is on the way. Dig your favorite sweaters

out from the back of your closet and cozy-up with a few

of our favorite specialty cocktails. With these recipes, you

won’t have to fly away to sun-drenched islands or brave

snowstorms to enjoy some holiday cheer. Our elegant

concoctions will transform your abode with exotic fruit and

spicy cordials, while ciders and cognacs will transport you

to a cabin nestled in snow-laden pines.

Whether it’s sipping, in the spirit of the New Year, or

snuggling fireside, the holidays are all about making great

memories with family and friends. We’ve cooked up a few

beverages that will have everyone gathered together and

ladling up the good-times. We’ve also included a few that

will simply let you show off as the merry mixologist.

Get festive with simple fruits like apples and oranges,

or get adventurous with persimmons, pineapples and

pomegranates. Indulge in some homemade organic

cordials, and make your cocktail party sparkle with vintage

glassware. These cocktails are the perfect centerpieces for

any over-the-top holiday celebration. Cheers!

gb

WilDFloWer sWeeT TeaClear, crystalline, and crisp. While drawing

on the sweet tea flavors that make us think of

home, this beverage offers a sophisticated twist

of Elderflower liquor and honey.

3 oz. Absolut Wild Tea

1.5 oz. St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur

0.75 oz. BarenJager Honey Liqueur

Pour ingredients over ice into a cocktail shaker

and stir. Pour into a highball or rocks glass and

garnish with a wedge of lemon.

sPiceD FruiT cake ciDerThis sweet spiked-cider will have you dreaming

of an exotic island escape as warm spices float

through the air.

2qts. organic Apple Cider

1 cup Spiced Dark Rum

1 cup Irish Whiskey

½ cup BarenJager Honey Liqueur

¼ cup Cinnamon Schnapps

1 sliced apple

1 sliced orange

1-2 cinnamon sticks

4 whole cloves

Break out the crockpot and start this recipe

early in the morning. The holiday smell will

permeate your home with delicious spices!

Pour all the ingredients into a 6-8 quart

crockpot. Add the thinly sliced apples, oranges,

cloves and cinnamon stick. Before serving,

muddle some pineapple at the bottom of the

glass and garnish. Serve in a glass mug, stone

earthenware, or hand painted mug.

nouvelle sTarThe delicate, rosy, pink-cheeked hue of

this cocktail might appear to be an elegant

ingénue, but looks can be deceiving.

Effervescent champagne is coupled with

Pear Brandy and grows gradually sweeter as

bubbles dissolve the cranberry-infused sugar

cube at the bottom of the glass.

4 oz. Champagne (Sweet or Brut)

European Style White Sugar Cubes

2 drops Cranberry Bitters per sugar cube

½ oz. Pear Brandy

Prepare Sugar Cubes with 2 drops of

Cranberry Bitters in champagne flutes. Fill

flute with ½ oz. of Pear Brandy, and then top

off the glass with about 4 oz. of bubbly.

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hoT buTTereD rumPrep time on this one can put you into overtime, but it is

worth it. The compound butter can also be used on toast,

and the spiked whip cream is great on waffles, fresh fruit, or

in coffee.

1 oz. dark rum

1 oz. light rum

*Pat of Compound Butter (see recipe below)

½ oz. Maple or Simple Syrup

Hot water or hot cider

**Bourbon-spiked vanilla whipped cream (See recipe below)

Cinnamon Stick for garnish

Mix all ingredients in a goblet and stir a few times to melt the

butter. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and bourbon-spiked

vanilla whipped cream.

*Compound Butter: Soften 1 pound of butter in a stainless

steel mixing bowl and mix 1 teaspoon each of ground

cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, and ¼ cup of dark brown

sugar. Mix well. Prepare a cookie sheet with wax paper and

spoon out heaping teaspoons onto the wax paper. Cool in the

refrigerator and remove 30 minutes before use.

**Bourbon-spiked vanilla whipped cream: Pour 1 pint of

heavy whipping cream into a mixing bowl. Start mixing on

high and gradually add ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar. Add 1

tablespoon bourbon and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Whip

until peaks appear.

Ginger Cordial (Non-Alcoholic):

Make an extra batch of this cordial and package as gifts in

re-usable glass bottles with swingtop closures.

2 cups sugar

¼ inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped

Peel of 1 lemon

1 cup fresh lemon juice

In a 2-qt. saucepan, combine sugar, ginger, lemon peel, and

1 cup water. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, and cook

until sugar is dissolved, about 5 minutes. Add lemon juice

and boil 1 minute more. Remove pan from heat. Set a fine

mesh sieve over a large measuring cup. Strain liquid and

transfer to a bottle. Keeps refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

Makes 3 cups.

chrisTmas in manhaTTanThe Manhattan has four basic ingredients:

Whiskey (rye, brandy, or bourbon), Sweet

Vermouth, bitters, and Maraschino cherries.

A traditional New York Manhattan is

made exclusively with rye whiskey, where versions from

Minnesota and Wisconsin employ brandy. In the South,

bourbon is the only acceptable spirit for a true southern

gentleman. To make fruit-infused holiday splash, use an

apple brandy like Apple Jack and Grand Mariner.

One of the strongest drinks in this compilation, Christmas

in Manhattan is stunningly smooth. A chilly exterior

pushes tart apple flavors to the forefront, while vermouth

and Grand Marnier warm through your chest. Everyone

will be glowing with holiday cheer!

2 oz. Apple Brandy

½ oz. of Sweet Vermouth

½ oz. of Grand Marnier

Pour apple brandy, sweet vermouth, and Grand Marnier

over ice into a shaker. Stir and strain into a martini glass

or serve on the rocks in a traditional rocks glass. Garnish

with a red Maraschino cherry. For an added kick use

Italian Vignola preserved cherries, which can be found in

most Italian markets.

ReCommendations foR sipping /no-pRep spiRits:

Heering Cherry Liqueur: Produced in Denmark since 1818, Cherry Heering is a ruby-red liqueur made by soaking lightly crushed Danish cherries and a blend of spices in neutral grain spirits, then cask-maturing the mixture for up to five years, adding sugar during the aging process. Perfect as an aperitif.

Extase X.O.: An exotic spirit distilled in small batches from orange peels and imported from the island Curacao. Extase X.O. is carefully blended and distilled in Dijon, in the heart of Burgundy, using one of the oldest operating pot stills in France.

Single Malt Scotch: Have you ever counted stars while lying on a blanket of peat moss next to a bon-fire-by-the-sea? Try Lagavulin 16-year scotch, and you’ll feel as if you have. Channel your inner sailor by pouring a dram of this amber colored magic into your glass. Scotland awaits.

Remy Martin XO: The pillowy, gem-shaped bottle holds a velvety textured cognac. It teases out essences of sweet oranges and ripe figs while lingering on your tongue long after the first sip. Savor and drink slowly.

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De-lovely, De-lighTFul, anD

De-vine: We’re De-liriously

inFaTuaTeD WiTh Deny Designs

anD DusTin eDWarD nyhus,

The namesake behinD Deny

Designs. PrePare To be

insPireD in your living sPace.

Why jusT hang arT, When you

can sleeP on iT anD shoWer

WiTh iT?!?

De- neW: iDeas anD arTisTs

Meet DENY Designs, or rather the man behind DENY. Get to

know DENY from a glimpse into the life and journey of Dustin

Nyhus, the little Denver acorn that he was, and the gorgeous

tree that DENY has become. He is the orchard farmer folks….

and the artists he supports are like rare and beautiful trees,

creating a kaleidoscope of color in a world of cold pixilation.

graffiti bEaCh (gb): On the company site you describe

DENY as “a small passionate group of people whose right

sides of the brain dominates their left sides” as well as people

who “want to create and be visionaries”. Tell me about the

battle of the right vs. left hemisphere…

dustin: Yeah, it’s definitely a battle. We’ve got A.D.D. like

nobody’s business around here. We just want to be engulfed in

design all the time. DENY, at the core, is about supporting the

artists and the art community throughout the world. Everyone

is passionate about building the future here. We have over

2,500 pieces of art from 80 artists around the world.

gb: It sounds like DENY’s concept is really focused on building

a symbiotic relationship with the artists. How does DENY

connect with these creatives?

dustin: We are absolutely 100% about a partnership with the

artist. With each purchase from the Gallery, our team of

profile

Art to order-denY desiGns-

WRiTTen by: Brianna van neSS DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

gb profiletalented artists earn part of the proceeds, enabling

DENY to support art communities all over the

world. I feel like now is the best time to be an

artist. You can actually make a substantial living

nowadays. As far as connecting, sometimes DENY

reaches out to individuals, but the most direct

way to start is on the site at denydesigns.com.

There is a ‘Join Us!’ tab. Every single person at

DENY is involved in contributing their thoughts

on the artwork that is featured. We take in 300

applications at a time and we click on every single

submission, every single image, every single time.

gb: Sounds like a lot of work. What is the response

time for artists who submit via the site?

dustin: Within 2 weeks we get back to the artist

with a response if it seems like it would be a good

fit. We are always looking out for new ideas,

new art - anything new! DENY only features

non-competing work. We are really careful about

selecting styles and approaches that don’t compete

with each other and are equally amazing in their

own right. We want to reach out and be with the

artists throughout the entire process. DENY is there

as a partner while making the visions work on the

products.

gb: I was reading about your renegade non-belief

in carrying inventory and the unique dye-printing

process. DENY has been featured in a lot of high-

circulation periodicals as well as trend-setting online

sites. How do you keep up?

dustin: DENY is well-equipped to handle high

volume without compromising quality. We print

each product after it’s ordered so that it’s 100%

custom-made for each and every customer. My

experience in industrial design and wholesale

manufacturing has given me a lot of insight. The

process involves dyeing ink into the fibers of the

fabric (for textiles) or the coated aluminum (for our

hanging art pieces) instead of the traditionally used

direct print. This gives DENY’s products a huge

advantage, as our colors stay fresh and vibrant.

Instead of just art on your walls, DENY creates

customized products for home décor.

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gb: In your bio, it says that you have

some “mad skills” when it comes to

designing and building furniture and

that it’s “in your blood”. Sounds like

your family roots have played a big

part in your development and creation

of DENY.

dustin: I grew up watching my father

and grandfather build pretty much

anything they set their minds on. They

would basically look at it and figure out

how to build it. My grandfather even

helped build a paddle boat. The basic

philosophy I have tried to live by, and

encourage others with, is to just dive in

and do it! Don’t be afraid to get your

hands dirty and to make mistakes - that

is the process of discovery.

gb: You are the CEO of DENY

designs, a.k.a. “the brains”, and your

wife Kim is the COO. Does that make

her the “heart”? What influenced and

inspired you both in the development

of DENY? How is it running a

visionary, creative business with your

partner in life?

dustin: The concept of DENY, and

one of the major reasons we are here

is that Kim and I had a lot of time

to talk about our vision for DENY.

When she was pregnant with our

twin boys, she was put on bed-rest

for a period of time, and it was then

that we were able to talk in depth

about what we envisioned. We were

also fortunate enough to be able to

travel around the world together.

Observing how people and artists in

other cultures and environments live

and thrive has been key.

Dustin, his wife and co-founder

Kim, and the DENY staff and

artists truly seem to operate like a

growing family. Rather than just

projecting art for consumption, the

principles of community, creativity,

and eco-responsibility are taught

through their visionary business

model, giving the international

art community a platform to

thrive. DENY is helping new ideas

and images continue to evolve,

while helping us all become more

“engulfed in design.”

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“the BAsic philosophy i hAve tried to live By, And encourAge others, With is to just dive in And do it!” -dustin nyhus

gb fashion

Brand names and company logos emblazoned across t-shirts are becoming less

and less popular, making way for more artistic, “wearable art”. The notion

that having Abercrombie and Fitch or Volcom written across your chest could

be replaced with pictures, patterns, and designs excites artist Michael Phipps,

creator of Scatterbrain Ties. As a strong

advocate for wearable art, he favors

individuality over conformity within

fashion, every time.

After graduating with a degree in

illustration, and doing various freelance

jobs ¬ranging from making CD covers to

designing a headstone, Phipps decided to

explore other types of art. He wanted

to find unique ways of displaying his art

that could also fill in the “gaps” between

larger jobs. He wanted to accomplish this

all while allowing him to put together his

passion for illustration, graphic design,

and support of unique fashion. “There

are so many ways to display art that reach

far beyond two dimensional prints on a

wall,” says Phipps. With that mentality,

Phipps started screen-printing his original

illustrations and graphics onto t-shirts.

Fast forward four years and Phipps is

designing and selling t-shirts for men and

women, ties, and even some messenger

bags - all covered in his funky designs.

Phipps explains, when asked about the

choice to add ties to the mix, “a tie has a very unique

shape that surprisingly opens up possibilities, despite

being confining in other ways.” He started making ties

by recycling some of his t-shirt designs that could be sized

down to fit on a “skinnier” canvas. Everything moved

forward from there. Now he has created an entire line of

ties – Scatterbrain Ties.

Today he offers dozens of hand screen-printed, one-of-a-

kind ties on his website: Scatterbrain Ties, as well as on

Etsy and ThinkGeek. More recently, Scatterbrain Ties

are being sold both in-store at Graffiti Beach and online

at ShopGraffitiBeach.com, where the “Albert Einstein” tie sold out almost

immediately upon arrival.

Phipps’ main goal when designing is to produce creations that are “out of the

box” and unique. In doing so, some of

his designs may seem random - think

circuit boards, portraits of Abraham

Lincoln, octopi and finely-dressed

frogs. These surprising designs are

exactly what his customers appreciate

about him. Phipps’ goal is to design

using “whatever comes to mind”,

and to “make something that looks

awesome, interesting, and doesn’t

necessarily have a joke or a theme, but

is visually appealing.”

Mission accomplished.

For a man, “a tie is a good excuse to

wear something strange or funky. Some

people that wouldn’t wear a crazy shirt

are willing to be more expressive with

a tie,” notes Phipps, who frequently

sports his own designs, “Dapper Fox”

being his current favorite. Phipps’ ties

add a touch of spunk to the dreary

dress shirt and sports jacket. Although

the concept of adding craziness to a

typically formal article of clothing may

seem strange, according to the artist

himself, that’s what makes it all the more fun.

At the end of the day, Michael Phipps’ Scatterbrain Ties

offers art that is “unique, cool, weird and amazing, ” on

a “canvas” that was simply an expected accessory. Wear

them to a business meeting, in the courtroom, out on

the town, at your company’s next holiday party, or out

to dinner. Or, why not just throw it on just because it’s

Friday? Regardless of where you wear it, Phipps’ unique

ties warrant some passing stares, and always offer a

guaranteed topic of conversation.

have your art and wear it too

WRiTTen by: caSSie kOBrin DesigneD by: Brandie Mata


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HolidayShopping

Guide

GRAFFITi BEACH


biKe // beAtrice holiDAY: vintAGe biKe bAG/purSe $68, SeAt cover $24, Set $88 AmY // JeDiDiAh: bicYcle crop top $28, beAtrice holiDAY: biKe chAin necKlAce $24 muKee: SKAteboArD peAr eArrinGS $26 continuouS: reD ciGArette pAntS $78

vince // YelloW 108: feDorA $44 urbAn octopuS: thinK tee $32

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gb finds

Graffiti beach seeks out specific designers and artists that have an

interesting story behind their lives and work.

Whether their proDuctS Are mADe from A unique mAteriAl, Support A cAuSe, or JuSt reflect their

creAtor’S pASSion, eAch item reveAlS true heArt AnD Soul AlonG With inventiveneSS AnD hourS upon hourS loGGeD into DeSiGn AnD creAtion. the holiDAY SeASon

iS the perfect time to ShAre their StorY/concept/miSSion With Your frienDS AnD fAmilY. Get reADY to be inSpireD AS You flip throuGh the next feW pAGeS, AnD

be prepAreD to ShAre the Gift of ArtiStic pASSion With Your loveD oneS! nothinG SAYS holiDAY love liKe A

cArefullY choSen, creAtive, one-of-A-KinD Gift.

All of theSe itemS Are AvAilAble in-Store AnD online: ShopGrAffitibeAch.com

GrAffiti beAch – 2220 fern St., SAn DieGo cA 92104

Tunes ecogeekstreet aztec

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AMY // JeDiDiAh: free birD tee$32 1oAKbYSArA: AGAte necKlAce $58 VINCE // continuouS: GAneSh tee $32

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GB finds

TunesMusic is a very important element to our creative

store concept. Our artwork, clothing and décor all have a strong relationship with musical elements. We have something for every musical

style at Graffiti Beach!

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Left Wall // bUgHOUse above 1. gAMAgO: 45 recOrd cOaSterS $12 2. gAMAgO: BBQ guitar Spatula $20 3. bUgHOUse: caSSette panel (Several genreS tO chOOSe frOM!) $68 4. FORTUne 421: 4 the recOrd tee $32 5. JAMMyPACK $48 6. FORTUne 421: treBle + BaSS tee $32 7. CHiMe Designs: MariMBa druM cyMBal necklace $72

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gb finds

above 1. MAPTOTe: nyc tOte (Other citieS availaBle) $17 2. JeDiDiAH: MOtOrBike tee $30 3. niCe RAKC: White Mini Skyline clutch $38 4. POP CHART LAb: grand taxOnOMy Of rap naMeS print $28 5. COnTinUOUs: SuBWay tee $36 6. ALeX CHiMiLiO: handpainted MOrSe cOde lOngBOard $375 7. JAMMyPACK: hOarder $68 8. gAMAgO: hip hOpSicleS ice tray $8 Right aMy // MUKee: SkateBOard feather earringS $26 THe giVing Keys: inSpire key necklace $35 CHiMe Designs: rattle Bracelet $48 JeDiDiAH: tO live and tO lOve tee $32 CHeLseA b: native red ShOrtS $65 isLAy: french lace leggingS $48

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streetGraffiti Beach’s slogan: BEACH MEETS STREET allows for an urban coastal vibe indicative of our California coastlines. So this category was a no brainer! You can’t go wrong with our Subway tee, New York City Map Tote and of course the

unique longboard, handpainted in Morse Code!


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gb finds

We all have those friends and family members who live through their computers, video games and

various iProducts. Give them the gift that feeds their obsession: a circuit board tie, Fantastic Mr. Fox shirt,

and more!geek

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Left vince // yeLLOW 108: driver hat $35 sCATTeRbRAin: fOx tee $28 above 1. bUgHOUse: JOyStick future fOSSil $78 2. sCATTeRbRAin: circuit BOard tee $28 3. sOCK iT TO Me: MuStache SOckS $9 4. URbAn OCTOPUs: huMan reflex print $16 5. POP CHART LAb: the very Many varietieS Of Beer print $28 6. POP gOes THe COLOR: retrO videO geek lightSWitch $9 7. URbAn OCTOPUs: eyectOpuS pint glaSS $10 8. sCATTeRbRAin: circuit BOard tie $34 9. sCATTeRbRAin: einStein tee $28

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gb finds

above 1. WeWOOD: Jupiter Watch (Several cOlOrS and StyleS availaBle) $139 2. yeLLOW 108: upcycled felt fedOra $38 3. COOLCORC: Bird cOrk Wallet $75 4. KAnDALs: ecO StraWBerry Scented ShOeS (Other cOlOrS availaBle) $48 5. MUKee: califOrnia SkateBOard Belt Buckle $34 6. TOAsT: Bird On Wire WOOd iphOne decal $29 7. beATRiCe HOLiDAy: vintage Bike Bag/purSe $68 7. PUsH: typeWriter ring $30 Right aMy // beATRiCe HOLiDAy: tire cuff, Bike chain cuff $24 each

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We are passionate about eco-friendly items! Each has an incredible story and sports a cool look, all while

being great for our environment. Guilt free shopping! Some of our favorite eco-friendly items for guys this season are skateboard belt buckles and cork wallets!

eco


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gb finds

aztec We cannot get enough of our love for Aztec designs! Think tribal designs, feathers, turquoise

and intricate patterns.

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Left aMy // 1OAKbysARA: agate necklace $58, ring $68 JeDiDiAH: free Bird tee$32 isLAy: SluB Maxi Skirt $89 nATiVe HOney: upcycled leather upper Bag $165 above 1. JeDiDiAH: free Bird tee$32 2. inCA: annie ShOeS (availaBle in BrOWn Or gray) $98 3. ARDenT ReVeRie: Juliet Bracelet $38 4. sTOLen sUnDAy: azuSa infinity Scarf $55 5. niCe RAKC: red yellOW triangleS clutch $38 6. sOCK iT TO Me: tOe and arrOW SOckS $9 7. Deny Designs: feathered thrOW pillOW By artiSt WeSley Bird $49 8. PAPeR biRD CReATiOns: the fly catcher ring $25

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phOtOgrapher: JeSSika levine

cOOrdinatOr: lauren adaMS

Makeup:carla kirkpatrick

hair: kriSten lynette Winfrey

left the giving keyS: inSpire key necklace $35 Jedidiah: tO live and tO lOve tee $32 right

vOet: leg Bandeaux (Other cOlOrS availaBle) $18


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WrIter: andrea reItman IMages Courtesy of: loog guItar desIgner: monarose ryan

gb profile

Some want to be doctors. Some want to be chefs. Some want

to be rock stars. For the doctors and chefs, there are functional

stethoscopes and “EZ Bake Ovens” made for little hands.

For the rocker… there’s the Loog Guitar!

This “build-it-yourself”, 3-string is a perfect starter for children

and beginners. Assembly takes about fifteen minutes and

requires no special tools. The guitar is a real instrument, made

from real wood. It comes in three different shapes and has a

choice of two scale lengths, one for younger children and one

for kids over age nine. The strings are nylon instead of steel,

making it easier on a child’s fingers. Once the child learns, a

young musician can play real chords and virtually any song on

this unique learning guitar. Because of its true musical capacity,

the Loog Guitar, although designed for children, is suitable for

anybody who wants to learn or likes to play guitar.

This inventive instrument was created by Rafael Ajitas for his

Master’s Thesis at NYU. Studying marketing, Ajitas knew that

he could choose from a wide variety of projects. But he also

knew that he had to create and focus on something he really

loved. Rafael says “I narrowed it to something that combined

two of my passions: music and industrial design.” He came up

with a “melody maker” which would inspire a child’s love of

music, and be fun and easy for families to assemble together.

Ajitas believes that the assembly of the guitar helps the young

musician “develop a deep connection” with the instrument.

“When I grow up, I want to be...” all little ones say this.

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MThe company was officially launched through Kickstarter,

a fundraising website which procures backing for creative

projects. With Kickstarter, the company set a fundraising

goal and deadline, and created a campaign. Through the social

media resources and newsletters available, Loog Guitar not only

met their goal by deadline, but exceeded it by over $50,000.

According to Ajitas, “the support, the sense of community,

the backers from all over the world and the ‘we-can-make-it’

feeling, were exhilarating.”

Once the start-up capital was secured, Rafael Ajitas began

seeing the true reward for the creation of his product. “I love

it when we get videos, pictures and stories from our customers,

sharing how they build and play the guitar together with their

kids. It’s very moving.”

Loog Guitar was not this innovator’s first foray into the

harmonic world. “Music has always been my thing,” says

Rafael. In fact, he has played guitar and other instruments

since he was twelve years old. Initially, he played bass, since it

had less strings and he felt that it would be easier to pick up and

master. He says that this early belief “was really the beginning

of Loog Guitars.” By the time he was in high school he had

a band. Though at the time, he did not consider himself a

‘professional musician,’ Ajitas successfully recorded two albums.

The Loog Guitar is a game changer when it comes to the way

people learn music. Because 6 strings can be overwhelming

for children and beginners, the 3-string format is a good

springboard. Easier to learn, and following the same method

as a traditional 6 string guitar, the Loog guitar provides a

stimulating and encouraging experience for novice players.

According to Ajitas, it was “specifically designed with the goal

to make it fun and easy for kids to play music.” Loog Guitar

is currently working to expand their product line. “Music

definitely was an important part of my life,” Rafael affirms.

And with the Loog Guitar, he intends to fill the lives of others

with music as well.

gb fashion

If one listens very closely you can hear the distinct

beat of the heart begging to move beyond itself.

There are those who do not hear the call. There

are the individuals who do, but (perhaps worse)

ignore it. Then there are those who hear it and

listen to the beat urging them onward toward an

often life-changing humanitarian mission.

Leslie Barrett falls unquestionably into the third

category. She works full time as a High School

teacher working with at-risk students to reach

the necessary first life goal of finishing High

School. She nurtures them forward all day, and

then only at night is she able to focus on her

other love - jewelry design. Each design reclaims

an old drum cymbal and breathes new life into

its forgotten and dusty form. Whether it was

cracked or dented matters not, as she shapes it

into delicate dangly earrings, a one of a kind

bracelet, or a necklace that grabs the attention

of any onlooker, mimicking the attention it once

received as a hi-hat. Being eco-friendly and using

reclaimed materials is a worthy goal for any

designer, but Leslie is not stopping there. “Even

though my jewelry business, CHIME, is just

coming off the ground I’ve always wanted it to

be based in positive, creative forces and I think

giving to others is the core of that.” As a strong

woman with very clear dreams, Leslie seeks to

help, support and urge young women within

and without of the classroom. In all her travels,

and throughout the collections of cymbals both

gained and given, she has met a series of amazing

female drummers. “Working with cracked drum

cymbals as my main medium has allowed me the

opportunity to meet numerous musicians, mainly

drummers - many of them dynamic and talented

women. I thought to myself ‘How can I bring

all of these beautiful ladies together, and who can

we help and inspire?’ It is through this connection

that she hopes to propel young women forward

to reach out and grab their dreams of being a

musician. “I wanted to connect established female

musicians with young, aspiring girls. I knew there

could be a powerful connection.”

Leslie, along with 6 female drummers, have

partnered up to create unique CHIME jewelry,

where a percentage of the proceeds go to support

other young women as they go to rock camp

C H I M E G I V E S : A C H A r I t y p r o j E C t S u p p o r t I n G t H E G r o w t H o f G I r l S I n M u S I C

WRiTTen by: alana trevinO itaya PHOTOgRAPHeD by: rhOel paghunaSan DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

the beat- of the -

heart

fashion

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“Originality is the key…Music is a language that can be used for the betterment of everything around you, so speak wisely.”-nikki g

gb fashion– helping turn their musical dreams into a reality. Rock Camp for Girls LA’s

(RCGLA) goals are similar to Leslie’s: “RCGLA strives to nurture self-esteem

and self-expression in girls, in a world that doesn’t always give girls permission,

space or the tools to do so. We hope that our programs inspire girls to be their

best selves, to rock in life.” Leslie, along with her 6 female drummers aim to do

just that. “Women are beautiful and have a lot to offer this world. I just want

to be a part of the solution. Women, as a collective, can have a very positive

and powerful influence on the world.” The goals are simple: “To bridge like

minds. To inspire. To create. To promote kindness. To keep the beats and

love of music running though generations.” Each jewelry piece captures the

unique inspiration and experience of each drummer. Each design is a permanent

record of their journey as they pass on their moments of triumph to other young

women – taking the form and shape of jewelry.

“The women I decided to work with are inspirational, talented and have so

much to offer this world. Their creativity expands far from their drum kits, and

so do their hearts.”

Merry Young, The MutineersMerry began playing the tambourine, the shakers and singing back-up. She then

evolved to a bass drum and only later added a snare and then a hi-hat. Cymbals

were added and “it just grew from there.” 4 years later she finds herself as an

established drummer.

Her design is “a pendant for a necklace. Three open rings, overlapping and

joined at the top. I looked at my own cymbals for inspiration. I have these

vintage Zildjians that just make the best shimmery sound. I sort of imagined

what that sound would look like. You could see each ring as a wave of sound,

like a chime actually…once I sketched it out it seemed to just make sense.”

When speaking to other female drummers, she urges them to “practice, practice,

practice. Your performance should speak for itself. If you are well prepared…

try to be yourself and develop your own ways of playing. You don’t need to

hit as hard as the next guy if that’s not your style. But don’t be afraid to make

yourself heard either.” Merry makes herself heard through her distinct style and

sound and now this design from CHIME will speak for her in a different way.

Nikki G, Street Drum CorpsNikki was born with music and rhythm in her very soul. As she got older this

relationship turned into a full-blown love affair. “Although I was introduced to

music at a very young age, drumming and rhythm were being applied by the age

of four and soon after I would start to explore percussion and then a full drum

set. I’m always asked why I chose the drums, but the truth is my instrument

chose me.”

Despite being given the musical blessing of her family, Nikki still ran into the

obstacles of being a woman in a male dominated career. “I have not only been

“the women i decided to work with are inspirational, talented and have so much to offer this world. their creativity expands far from their drum kits, and so do their hearts.”- leslie Barrett

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treated differently, but I have had the constant

struggle of being turned down not because of

my musical skills, but because I am female.

Change is happening, but just as many factors

of life create controversy between the sexes, this

is one I unfortunately have personal experience

with but will still fight to have the musicality

speak for itself.”

Nikki’s CHIME design centers around the art of

street drumming. She mixes in the shape of the

cymbals, vintage keys and other “artistically cut

objects such as custom trashcans and more street

found objects.” She mixes her love of the drums,

vintage keys and how her career has led her to

the place of being part of “Street Drum Corps”

represented by the objects from the street.

Her advice for young rockers is specific and

poignant: “The good musical fight is a vicious

cycle many artists endure, the cycle can either

stop you, or motivate you. Working in the

music industry is highly competitive and it truly

takes constant perseverance. There is nothing

more rewarding than taking every aspect of

the art and applying it to make it stand out.

Originality is the key…Music is a language that

can be used for the betterment of everything

around you, so speak wisely. The music world

is an unknown adventure, and with every

knock of opportunity, be ready, because one

knock will lead to the next.”

Jen Carlson, The CityForced to play the flute because of her tomboy

ways, Jen rebelled and took 2 drumsticks into

her hands instead. She has been seriously

studying the beats and rhythms that emit

from this chosen instrument ever since -

totaling eleven years of practice. When critics

say “You’re good for a girl” she moves on

unbothered, secure in who she is and the

choices that she has made that have led her to

this point. Her motto? “Put yourself out there

and play from the heart…everything will come

together.”

gb fashion

With her strength in her convictions, seen from the outset,

it’s no wonder that she chose a symbol of endurance and

stability – an anchor. Her nickname is “tugboat.” She

is the “little boat that pulls the ship.” Keeping with the

theme of strength the symbol of the anchor is to represent

the drummer’s role within the band, as the anchor of the

music. Though she recognizes the important role of the

drummer, she also realizes that they are just one part of the

equation. “I hope they [the girls benefiting from the sale

of her design] learn how to play with the band. Writing a

song isn’t about one instrument or person – it’s everyone

working together as a team

and picking your spots to be

dynamic.”

Megan Moede, Member of the professional marching artsBorn into a family with Julliard

in its genes, Megan embraced her

musical capabilities and followed

in her brother’s drumming

footsteps. “My brother was a

drummer too, so being the younger

sister I had to do anything that

he did.” She took this passion

for drumming and shared it with

everyone she knew. She would

drum, but she would also teach drumming and percussion.

She is surrounded daily by eager students who are every

bit as passionate as she is about the drums. “The learning

experience and the family tradition are what got me in, but

the passion and camaraderie is what kept me hooked.” Now,

a decade later, she seeks to share her passion with other

young girls striving to make it as musicians.

Her design, like Megan, is based in music. It is modeled

after paradiddles “which is a basic rudimental figure that

consists of two strokes of the hand followed by a double

stroke. When you are playing it you’ll play out the pattern

‘RLRR’ or ‘LRLL’. She used the traditional “RLRR”

but translated it into morse code. She took a concept

that is known by all levels of learners and connects them

through the beginning steps of drum knowledge. Her

inspiration lies in the very day that she met Leslie at a craft

fair. “There was such an amazing energy from the room

of people who made a living off of their creativity.” From

then on the prospect of collaboration with Leslie was an

exciting and creative way to share her love of drumming.

“Making cymbals into wearable art is a way to take

something seen as just a scrap of metal into something

beautiful and timeless.”

Julie Edwards, Deap VallyHer path to her drumsticks was more joyfully random.

She simply thought it looked like fun, “so I gave it a try”.

Now 7 years later, her obstacles are few, with “overly

tightened hardware” at the top of the list. Her words

of encouragement are simple and joyful “ Hit hard, but

stay groovy. Everyone loves a girl

drummer. You’ll get lots of attention

– enjoy it!”

Julie’s design is CHIME earrings

“inspired by John Bonham’s

pictorial symbol for Led Zepplin –

three interlocking circles. It is the

replication of John Bonham’s symbol

made from a cymbal.” She attributes

his powerful musical talents as her

greatest drumming inspiration.

Liv Marsico, Gothic Tropic and LiphemraThe path to drumming was clearly

outlined by Liv’s father who was a jazz

drummer and vibraphonist. “I always saw it as something

necessary to life,” says Liv. She has been actively

drumming since age 12. Because she began so early, her

obstacles were many. “In middle school the young boys

my age would exclude me from playing with them. They

were very particular about who they let into their bubble

to “jam”. I would often get made fun of and not taken

seriously because I was female, even by teachers. There

are still moments where people react to me differently.

Recently, when I was playing a show in Mexico the drum

tech looked at me and asked who the drummer was.

When I replied that it was me… he said that he didn’t

think that I could hit the drums hard enough.” With these

sorts of hurdles to overcome it is no wonder that Liv plays

the drums with so much power from within.

Liv has worked hard to set herself apart, to create a unique

and different drumming style. It makes perfect sense that

her CHIME design would be influenced by this path. “My

design is a round bracelet that says ‘Different Drummer’.

“i think the words ‘different drummer’ are important to keep in mind when developing your own unique playing style.” -liv Marsico


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This is a phrase that is strongly attached to

Elvin Jones, a very famous jazz drummer.”

This “different drummer” played with many

of the jazz legends, including Coltrane. “I

thought about what really shaped me as a

musician and his approach to the drum-set

holds a special place in my heart. I think

the words ‘different drummer’ are important

to keep in mind when developing your own

unique playing style.” Ultimately you don’t

need to “worry about being male or female,

just play the instrument with truth and the

rest will work itself out.”

When asked about her hopes for the young

girls that are enriched through rock camp, Liv

is very explicit…”I hope more young women

can find themselves through music. There

is very little in this world that can touch a

person’s soul the way music can. The sooner a

child can experience this beauty, the better.”

Leslie plans to move forward with her

charity, tending it and watching it grow as it

continues to develop. In the future she plans

to include a variety of musicians, and looks

forward to seeing and implementing their

designs into CHIME’s distinct and powerful

collection. As she creates more collaborative

designs, she plans to send more girls to camp.

“I hope this project allows financially less

fortunate girls the opportunity to participate

in RCGLA. And to not only experience

being a musician, but also to gain a sense of

independence and stronger sense of self-

esteem. We all know that music is a healing

force and can help shape lives for the better.”

With the support of these amazing female

drummers, and the mission of Leslie Barrett,

how can a young aspiring rocker girl not

succeed? These 6 drummers are paving the

way towards a future where the gender lines

are blurred and individuals are seen for their

talent and ability, not the box they check.

CHIME is being heard and CHIME Gives

will continue to inspire the next generations

of female music fans to reach beyond

themselves in order to achieve music as well

as equality.

“put yourself out there and play from the heart…everything will come together.” -Jen carlson

gb art

Beatrice Holiday

WRiTTen by: alexa MangruM


PHOTOgRAPHeD by: garOne africa

sTyLisT: Michelle africa

HAiR MAKeUP: linda zirkuS

Alisun Franson is a rock n’roll reinventionalist. Known for

her bicycle inspired eco-friendly and innovative line, Beatrice

Holiday, Franson’s latest collection, “GILT RIDDEN” is for the

fresh, fierce, femme fatale.

Featuring an array of accessories that flaunt Franson’s jaw-dropping

ability to transform old into new, the collection was named using a

chic play on words that spoke to the origins of her creative medium.

Transforming upcycled bicycle materials into a new stunning set of

Goes Rock ‘N Roll

gbart

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gb art

jewelry pieces, Franson drew inspiration for “Gilt Ridden” from a

familiarity with the inner tubing of a bike wheel. This is a material

that she considers to be innate within her design work. Fusing

the recycled inner tube with the edgy cool metal of a bike chain,

the result culminated in a collection of accessories that is sure to

snazz up any outfit by adding a dose of seriously badass attitude.

Collecting materials used from local bike shops, the collection is

an intricate interplay of metal and tubing. Conceptualized as a

wearable, but avante-garde collection, she plays and manipulates

the two opposing mediums. Franson designed specifically with the

fearless fashionista in mind.

gbart

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gb art

Each piece is crafted to shine as the

focal point of any outfit. For those

that love the elegant boldness of

the pieces, but are confused how to

rock them, Franson recommends

simplicity. “Think denim” she

advises. “Pair the body pieces with

a plain white tank or tee with

skinny jeans and ankle boots,” she

says. Imagine the outfit as a canvas,

especially when donning statement

accessories, such as her personal

favorite, the TRIPOD—a seductive

triangle finger harness. “I love the

way it feels - magical and badass

simultaneously,” she says, citing

good scissors, music, and patience as

critical to the creation of its elaborate

design.

Set to debut the collection in

February 2013 at the POOL

tradeshow in Las Vegas, GILT

RIDDEN is only the beginning of her

eco-friendly, feminine, yet future-

forward designs. “The focus is to

keep pushing the envelope and keep

creating more,” says Franson.

Currently available at Graffiti beaCh, view the ColleCtion in-store at seleCt boutiques or online at beatriCeholiday.Com.

gbart

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gb finds

Sometimes you want to go where

everybody knows your name, and

that place is the Salon on 30th! Spe-

cializing in beautifying the outside

to match the inside, the Salon on

30th aims to please with beautiful

cuts, styles, and color. 30th’s diverse

staff focuses on truly listening and

communicating with their clientele

so they can make a personal connec-

tion while making their customers

feel fabulous. Their talented staff

can give the color you’ve been crav-

ing, the cut you’ve always wanted.

Cheers!

company name: Salon on 30th

phone number: (619) 284-1687

address: 2225 30th Street San diego, ca

92104

Website: SalonOn30th.com

Specialty: cuts, Styling

SALON ON 30TH: SOUTH PARK, SAN DIEGO

01

THE TOP BEAUTY STOPS FROM LOS ANGELES TO SAN DIEGOWRiTTen by: ariana levin DesigneD by: aleJandra arenaS

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HOLLY JONES HAIR SALON: VENICE BEACH ON ABBOT KINNEY

55

f i n dsHoliday


GRAFFITi

BEACH

Looking for that trendy dip-dye or

ombre gleam? Look no further than

the fashion-forward studio that is

Holly Jones. Not only will you

leave with naturally-placed high-

lights that look sun-kissed rather

than striped, but your hair and nose

will thank you for her use of low

ammonia color and her beautiful

lofty salon with an open-air envi-

ronment.

company name: holly Jones hair Salon

phone number: (310) 399-1320

address: 1221 abbot kinney Blvd venice

Beach, ca 90291

Website: hollyJones.com

Specialty: Ombre, dip dye, cuts, Styling

02

gb finds

56

MELEESA THE SALON: HUNTINGTON BEACHBalayage abounds in this Hunting-

ton Beach Salon owned by Meleesa

Miller! For natural-looking high-

lights that leave the hair looking

gorgeous, without obvious root

regrowth. Meleesa’s is the place

to go. Meleesa is known for her

extensive knowledge, her careful

communication with her clients,

and for demonstrating how to use

specific products and techniques at

home to recreate the “look”. She

also specializes in curly hair and

extensions. Ladies of all hair types

will certainly leave this salon feeling

like new women.

company name: Meleesa the Salon

phone number: (714) 969 7199

address: 221 Main Street Suite e hun-

tington Beach, ca 92648

Website: MeleesatheSalon.com

Specialty: innovative and Bohemian Styl-

ing – Braids, Balayage, cuts

LULU’S BY TRAVIS PARKER: SAN DIEGOEnvironmentally friendly, health-

conscious, and financially feasible,

Lulu’s offers beautiful manicures

and pedicures without the use of

shellac and UV rays. Trendy and

spot-on for nail art, Lulu’s also

is one of a very select few bou-

tiques across America selected to

feature MINX – protective nail

coating available in multiple col-

ors, designs, foil, and metallic. Be

sassy and let Lulu’s keep your nails

on-trend!

company name: lulu’s by travis parker

phone number: (619) 521 2026

address: 2348 30th Street San diego, ca

92104

Website: lulusbytravisparker.com

Specialty: nail art, Soothing Manis and

pedis, Minx protective coating

03 04

57

f i n dsHoliday


GRAFFITi

BEACH

DRYBARS: THROUGHOUT CALIFORNIA

DIPPED NAILS: REDONDO BEACH

Hair never looks quite as good as

it does when you leave the salon-

hair swinging, shiny, and perfectly

blown out. Clients can get a fabu-

lous blow-out at their local Drybar-

salons specializing in “no cuts. No

color. Just blow-outs for only $35.”

Clients can order appetizing styles

such as “The Cosmo,” a blow-out

replete with luxurious loose curls.

“The Mai Tai,” a glorious disarray

of beachy waves. As well as “Man-

hattan,” for those seeking straight

and smooth locks. Memberships

to the bar also save money while

occasionally throwing in freebies

So, don’t create a waste of energy

and frizz- book an appointment at

the Drybar for an affordable and

beautiful blowout.

company name: dryBars

phone number: (877) 379-2279

address: throughout california, check

website for exact locations.

Website: thedryBar.com

Specialty: Blowouts

Color-blocking, galaxies, tie-dye,

and autumnal leaves are just a few

of the spectacular design specialties

offered by Dipped. Relaxing mani/

pedis in the laid-back atmosphere

and special attention paid to the

latest nail trends ensure that fin-

gers and toes are fun, fresh, and

fashion-forward.

company name: dipped nails

phone number: (310) 944 9100

address: 1300 South pacific coast high-

way, Suite 109 redondo Beach, ca 90277

Website: dippednails.com

Specialty: nail art

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gb fashion

senbazuru is the art of folding one thousand

origami paper cranes. According to Japanese

lore, folding 1000 cranes would grant the owner of

such dedicated hands a wish. Each careful fold of

the lovingly made cranes mimics the careful delicacy

of Paper Bird Creations.

Lovingly handmade with endless customizability,

jewelry by Paper Bird Creations is truly special and

unique. Each piece is as inimitable as its wearer.

Ranging from delicately enchanting personalized

nameplate necklaces, to bewitchingly organic semi-

precious stones, PBC features an endless array of

imaginative creations. Utilizing jewelry wires and

gemstones, Villarroel creates a unique look that is

exceptionally decadent with a warm, earthy feel. “I

like things that are organic in look and vintage in

style. There is something about hand wrapping a

stone into a ring. No two pieces are the same,” she

says of her company’s free spirited aesthetic.

Michelle Villarroel started Paper Bird Creations in

2005. It has been a tumultuous ride, but through

the years, with the love and support of her family

and friends, as well as her unyielding drive and

ingenuity, she has built her company from the

ground up.

Not merely conversational, but inarguably fluent in

make a wiShWRiTTen by: cryStal WaShingtOn DesigneD by: Brandie Mata


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artistic talent and design skills, Michelle

utilizes her creative aptitudes as well as her

background in advertising, web and graphic design. With the

aid of a small team to assist her, Michelle is directly involved

with every detail of her burgeoning company.

The transition from advertising and design to running a

jewelry business was faintly more than a hop, skip and

enormously big jump. The landing didn’t occur overnight.

Michelle had been creating invitations for her friend’s

weddings and birthdays. A trip to the craft store for invitation

supplies led to the acquiring of a jewelry making kit. A

request from one of the brides for custom bridesmaids’ gifts

set everything in motion for the birth of the business.

Having to compete against large companies with mass

produced jewelry is a tribulation for any independent

business. “Eventually I closed down my business and moved

on,” she explained. Fortunately, not forever.

As multifaceted as the very ingredients she utilizes in her

work, Michelle’s inspiration hails from her exotic travels as

well as au courant style icons like Zooey Deschanel, Blake

Lively, and Nicole Richie. “She is doing what I want to do.

She’s taken her accessory line to another level. Her style is

modern but has a unique antique twist to it,” she says of

Richie’s House of Harlow 1960 jewelry line. “My jewelry is

definitely influenced by current trends but at the same time I

do what I feel is right at the moment.”

Many species of cranes migrate over vast distances. The same

has held true for this California originating company. The

sun drenched shores of the golden state couldn’t keep the

treasures of PBC a secret for long. Soon Michelle was sending

shipments clear across the 50 states to New York, and across

the sea to Australia. “It’s such an amazing feeling to know

someone half way across the world is wearing something that

was created from my own hands. There is nothing better than

that feeling that something you put your whole heart into is

being appreciated and shared with someone you don’t know,”

states Villarroel. Off the internet, the line has recently been

welcomed through the doors of Graffiti Beach and is now sold

in-store and online.

Cranes fly with necks outstretched, rather than pulled

back, ready to take on the wind and the world. A fitting

representation, for a company that has come a long way;

evolving and taking on challenges with unwavering gusto.

gb fashion

With all the current trends in the

Fashion Industry, it’s easy to

forget the most essential and oldest

inspiration source of all - nature.

Nature combined with the love of

her environment provided a powerful

creative launch pad for Jessica Coleman,

creator of Folia Design SF. “I live

and work in San Francisco, a city that

inspires me and delights me every day.”

The love of her city and her ability to

find and commune with nature is what

she attributes as her main source of

inspiration – these are the elements that

brought her career and hobby together,

in perfect union. “I find inspiration in

the every day, natural and urban forms

around me, and translate this into the

organic and modern geometries of my

designs.”

With a Masters in Landscape

Architecture and background in urban

design, her curiosity was piqued by

a new and cutting edge technique of

laser cutting. This interest become an

essential educational need and inspired

her to take a class at Tech Shop to satisfy

this new possibility of a creative outlet.

“I started experimenting with laser cut

design about a year ago – fell in love

with the hands on intricate results once

can achieve.” Tech Shop would not only

allow her to satisfy this curiosity, but

it also helped her to evolve as an artist,

while creating something completely

different. This is an artist’s constant

quest. The class gave her the possibility

to use Tech Shop’s facilities, which are

exclusively ‘members only’,

while playing with another

idea - jewelry. The idea

of creating wearable art

is something she adores.

The laser cutter makes

each piece an intricate and

detailed combination of

“the exploration of geometry

and the playful representation of

shapes.” The laser cut technique allows

all pieces to match her perfect vision of

them. Jessica is the main motor behind

this San Francisco based company. They

have already been featured in Dwell

Magazine’s 2011 Holiday Gift Guide, a

great showcase that strives to encourage

modern designers. After only one year

of working with this technique, the

company has been so well received by

clients that it has become her sole focus.

Not only are the designs inspired by her

relationship with nature, but she also

has a strong commitment to remain

environmentally aware using recycled

material as much as possible. When

asked about her best sellers she mentions

the water drop earrings and the water

drop necklace. This comes as no

surprise given their attention grabbing

design. They are also made with

bamboo, which

makes them

lightweight and

durable. “I love

watching my

designs come to

life with the laser

cutter and then

seeing those pieces

become part of someone

else’s life through use or wear.”

For now, Folia Design SF will be looking

forward toward the holiday season.

The variations on the designs give the

customer the option to choose from a

spectrum of geometrical shapes to more

organic forms such as leaves and tree

shadows. Still, all of Folia Design SF

pieces always have that element of unity

that makes them so distinctive. The

hand on process from designing, to laser

etching, to laser cutting is apparent in

each piece. The necklaces and earrings

can translate into much more than a

reminder of Jessica’s relationship with

nature; they can bring back that natural

and organic sensibility that we ourselves

need to revisit from time to time. In

this way, not only does Folia Design

SF perform its purpose, which is to

have the access to wearable art, but it

also accomplishes the goal of looking

fashionable and modern while doing

so. This serves as the explanation of

why this small company is starting to

reach beyond the San Francisco market,

and making its way to San Diego and

beyond.

WRiTTen by: SaMia lavenant PHOTOgRAPHeD by: kelly leWiSDesigneD by: Brandie Mata

insPirationorganiC


Style is all about expression. Though our clothes do not define who we are, what we choose to wear and how we choose to wear it is a great indicator of our personalities. Because of this, we are always on the constant search for clothes and accessories that will “wow” us. One brand that truly understands the “wow factor” is Native Honey. Like people, each bag has a style and design unlike any other. Each piece is uniquely handmade from carefully selected recycled fabric remnants, allowing each owner to feel wowed.

From yoga bags, to totes, to clutches - Native Honey has a colorful array of fabric and leather swatches that are designed and crafted to create bags for any occasion. The line of bags is not overbearing, but instead is most definitely eye-catching with beautiful simplicity. This unique balance is the type of “wow” that comes from the thoughtful creative process of owner and creator Kelly Jackson. “I am a sucker for a great textured leather. I am always looking for new fabrics and textures that will continue to give Native Honey originality and keep customers coming back for more,” says Jackson. “We use

recycled fabric and leather remnants so it can be tricky finding that ‘wow’ we know customers are looking for. But when we do, it makes the bags that much more original.” To help create that originality, Jackson partnered up with Adrian Villanueva to help with the luxury bags. Referred to as “The Magic Man,” due to his eye for detail, Villanueva works with Jackson on designing and sewing for Native Honey. Together they shape the brand and work to achieve their mission of creating eco-friendly bags that are unique and special to women.

“We are always working toward designing what women want and what is practical,” she says. “Keeping our product eco-friendly and at an affordable price is a challenge, but something we take seriously.”

This dedication of creating handbags that customers will truly love is not the only thing that makes Native Honey a “wow” brand. Their thoughtful consideration for style and environment also spans to the community. Part of their mission is to also help improve the world by donating a portion of the proceeds of Native Honey to charities all over the world. “Being a mom, I participate in many school and PTA donations,” says Jackson about her interest in giving back. “[Native Honey] has donated to breast cancer foundations and auctions for homeless fundraisers in Orange County. All organizations need all the help they can get. If I have it to give, I try to pay it forward as much as possible.”

One cannot help but feel wowed by the good vibes and style of Native Honey. These fabulous bags tickle your fashionista funny bone - and just in time for the holidays!

WRiTTen by: eileen dOniegO de franceDesigneD by: SOnya J. calderOn

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When contemplating losing one of the 5 senses… the sense of

smell is one that very few would give up. The scent of coffee

in the morning. The skin of a newborn baby. The smell of

aftershave that you associate with your boyfriend’s clean

shaven face. Smell defines our existence in such a way that

present, past, and future can mingle with one clearly defined

scent. Scents to avoid are just as numerous as the smells

we seek out. KANDALS Shoes seeks to strike one from the

“bad” category and switch it to the pleasant column.

The smell of strawberry wafting through the air from…your

shoes?

The Sweet Scent of Shoes in the Morning WRiTTen by: cOrrinne BOllendOrf DesigneD by: Brandie Mata


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Scented shoes?

Abel, student turned entrepreneur and founder of

KANDALS shoes, came to San Diego from Ethiopia.

He wanted to develop a vision for a design savvy,

unique women’s casual shoe, and thus KANDALS

was born. These shoes, unlike Toms or Keds, have

strawberry scented rubber soles.

When the KANDALS’ team was in the

developmental stage they explored some issues

that their competitors were having. One major

complaint was that all canvas slip on shoes started

to have a bad odor after repeated wear. To mitigate

this problem, KANDALS found a way to combat

the funk by using scented rubber soles. The sole

of the shoe is dipped into a strawberry scent prior

to being assembled. Not only does the rubber

foundation of the shoe add a fresh aroma, but

it also adds increased stability, durability, and

comfort.

Another aspect that makes KANDALS

stand out from other canvas shoe clones

is the fact that they have a double canvas

stitched layer, encasing a layer of foam, instead

of just a single layer. They are also entirely

made out of eco-friendly material, with the

upper portion made out of green certified

100 percent cotton and the outsole made with

natural, flexible rubber. So flexible in fact, that they

easily fold and you can stick them into your purse,

gym or yoga bag to be worn when you just can’t take

a second more of “those heels”.

KANDALS does not stop at simply smelling good…

they also seek to DO good. Their overall vision is

to give their customers stylish and practical shoes

that always stay fresh and last long while partnering

with organizations that help solve world-wide issues.

They wanted to go beyond just designing eco-friendly

shoes by contributing to a transparent non-profit

organization. With every purchase of a KANDALS

pair of shoes, a tree is planted in a lower income

country to aid drought stricken communities in Haiti,

Ethiopia, and the Philippines. The organization,

Trees for the Future, actively reaches out to farmers,

giving them the tools to learn new irrigation methods.

KANDALS recently helped to plant five hundred trees

through this incredible organization.

As KANDALS expands, so will their giving. There

are many problems in the world that need attention

- water, education and hunger. KANDALS hopes to

help eradicate some of them. KANDALS is a new,

San Diego based start-up with big heart. Despite

their newness to the fashion industry, they are taking

big risks in order to give even bigger gifts.

“Symbiosis,” is the sort of word one doesn’t run into much within the

fashion world. Referring to the concept of a synergetic relationship, the

word may seem more like a fancy biology term instead of a word used to

describe cutting edge jewelry. Creative energy is the foundation behind

Simbiotek Design Lab, a local San Diegan design duo. Symbiosis is the

root of their future-forward aesthetic design philosophy.

Inspired by their mutual love of botany, biology, anthropology and

geometry, Hayley Stewart and Hunter Ruthrauff create new and edgy

décor and accessories for the modern, fashion-forward client. They are

now busy creating a design aesthetic from years of exploration within

these studies. Together they produce a line of eco-conscious accessories

that fuse together their collective passions in a completely new and

unique way.

Architects by day, designers by night, the prisms, hexagons, triangles

and tessellations incorporated into the designs are derived from the plant

formations and architecture which they have scouted and photographed

while traveling. All of the designs are crafted with

the intention of reinterpreting a naturally occurring

geometric pattern. “Obviously geometry is not

a new thing, but people are always interested in

the process behind the products, because they

don’t look like things you find everywhere,” says

Stewart, who cites a love of cultural anthropology

as critical to her design influences. Conveying

their commitment to raising an awareness of the

implicit relationship between humans and their

environment, the accessories produced by the Lab

are more of a system of translation, than simply

a crafty creation. “A symbiotic relationship in

nature is two opposing forces that work together

for the benefit of both,” says Ruthrauff. “We

abstractly applied that to the relationship between

man and biodiversity.”

Made from biodegradable plastic and Birchwood,

the Lab designs are generally sketched, then

generated by a

computer algorithm.

The designs are then

outsourced to a laser cutter,

a tool with which both designers

are very familiar. “We both used the laser cutter to make

architectural models. I always thought someday I would use it to

make jewelry,” says Stewart.

Much like their natural inspiration, the creative relationship between

Stewart and Ruthrauff has been an organic process. “We both knew

around the very beginning of our freshman year of high school that we

wanted to be architects,” says Ruthrauff. He is a self-described “big

doodler,” with a big fascination for buildings. For Stewart, who grew up

around architecture, the entry into the design world was also natural.

Both were raised in the Los Angeles area. Both studied architecture

and environmental science at Cal Poly Pomona. Both studied abroad

together in Scandinavia - a geographic influence apparent in their

designs. This aspect is especially seen in the

geometric snowflakes that appear in their new

Holiday ornament line. “We’re always evolving

and figuring out what we want to do,” says

Ruthrauff. “We call it ‘The Lab’ because we want

to make sure we’re always researching and not

taking ourselves too seriously,” he concludes.

For now, the two are drawing inspiration locally,

using the rich geographic landscape of San Diego,

such as the La Jolla Cove, the canyons and the

succulent gardens of Balboa Park as favorite areas

to scope out the next patterns that will inspire

future designs. At the end of the day, the catalyst

for all of their productions comes from the simplest

and purest motive behind innovation… curiosity.

The Simbiotek Design Lab collection is

available in-store at Graffiti Beach and online at

simbiotekdesignlab.com.

A Symbiotic Love Affair

WRiTTen by: alexa MangruM DesigneD by: Brandie Mata


Growing up in Southern California winter never meant building

snowmen in the front yard or careening down powdery hills

on sleds, but rather trees changing from green to gold and red

and long rainy days spent inside crafting with my mom. Every

year she’d pull out her sewing machine and begin working

handmade gifts. Winter still means lots of time indoors but

now also includes drinking a Manhattan by the fireplace as I

begin my holiday crafting projects. This year I decided to say

goodbye to my lovely vintage mirrored bulb ornaments and

make my own. If you have an abundance of fabric and felt

scraps, this project is perfect for you, and even if you don’t, the

supplies are super low cost. The theme for my tree this year is

woodland creatures, so I started with a mushroom and a bird

on a branch but intend to round out my forest of ornaments

with a fox, a deer and maybe even a bear. So, put a log on fire,

mix up a manhattan (I suggest Luxardo cherries), cue up your

favorite holiday film (Christmas Story anyone?) and settle in for

a night indoors full of crafty goodness.

what to gEt:

-Felt (assorted colors)

-Thread (assorted colors)

-Ric rac or thin ribbon

-Fabric scraps

-Sewing needle

-Paper

-Scissors

-Stuffing

what to do:1. choose the woodland creature for your ornaments, like a fox, a deer, mushrooms, a bird or a bear.

2. draw your animal on a sheet of paper. This will be your template. If your drawing skills are less than stellar, use a google image search to find drawing, then print and trace.

3. cut out your template.

4. place your template on a piece of felt or fabric, trace and cut.

5. add any details to your animals, like wings for birds, button eyes, leaves on branches etc.

6. put the wrong sides together of your fabric or felt and sew along the edges, leaving a space about an inch large open so you can stuff it. I suggest a blanket stitch for added detail.

7. use a pencil or chopstick to stuff your animal.

8. sew the opening closed.

9. sew on a loop of ric rac or ribbon as the hanger.

10. make another manhattan and repeat steps 1-9 to create a full forest for your tree.

Y- written by nicole stevenson -ranDomnicole.com

PaT c h W o r k s h o W. c o m

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WrIter: crystal washIngton desIgner: monarose ryan

gb profile

Patchwork Show Pieced Togetherthere are many types of families.

There are the traditional families in which you are born into;

the starter-kit relationships you’re presented in your initiation to

life. Then there’s the family which you gain through a marriage.

There are the close friends whom you’ve known for so long,

having shared so many experiences and memories that the lines of

relation have become blurred. Last, there is the type of family that

you create when people come together for a common cause. A

family born of sweat, toil and tears. In that sense, the Patchwork

Show is the greatest family reunion you could ever imagine.

A quilt is comprised of three layers: the patchwork, a layer

of insulation and a layer of backing material. Historically,

communities would come together for a quilting circle.

With every stitch, friendships were formed and bonds were

sealed. Fast forward to the present day and you have the

Patchwork Show.

The Patchwork Show was the very first of its kind - created to

address the need to showcase indie artists in an environment that

genuinely cares about arts, crafts, and their makers.

Years ago, while living in Los Angeles, Stevenson had a clothing

line. “I used to sell my stuff at church bazaars, flea markets

and sample sales. I was the only one there with handmade

stuff.” In the competitive world of fashion, sample sales consist

predominantly of big name labels with mass-produced pieces.

The fashion world is fast paced and driven by sales. “There

wasn’t a sense that the producers cared about the vendors or

understood what the vendors were doing… There was never

a ‘thank you’.” Not willing to give up on her dream, Nicole

realized that there was a dire need for independent artists to have

a venue to showcase their lovingly made yet underappreciated

wares. Joining forces with her aunt Delilah Snell, who was

Orange County based and well-connected in the region, they

came to the conclusion, “Why don’t we put on our own show?”

Motivated by the sample sales, Stevenson created a list of the

good, the bad and the ugly of those previous productions, and

Snell enlisted her army of connections to publicize the event.

In less than three months, Patchwork was born.

Initially, the bi-annual festival was held in the parking lot of

Delilah’s DIY and instructional shop in Santa Ana, “A Road

Less Traveled” with 25 vendors. “We actually lost money but it

was really successful. We had no idea anyone was even going to

show up!” Nowadays, each location features over 100 different

vendors from crafters to musicians and culinary artisans.

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One of the greatest surprises for Nicole was the support and

dedication shown by the vendors and seekers from the get go.

The layer of insulation of the patchwork quilt. “OMG there are

people here. There are A LOT of people here!” She explained

that there were many vendors who had driven down from

Los Angeles. “We made a cool hangout... It changed Orange

County’s reputation.” People would tell her, “I had no idea there

was cool stuff in Orange County!”

Coming from staunch Angelinos, that is quite the compliment.

When asked what inspires Patchwork Show’s co-founder Nicole

Stevenson most, she immediately mentions family. “My parents

were always so supportive and encouraging of me. It was hard

for them in the beginning because I was one of the first in the

family to go on to higher education to get a master’s degree,

and I left that to do art.” Family and her close-knit group of

dedicated friends are the backing material making up the third

and last layer of a patchwork quilt.

“Staying busy” is an understatement for Nicole, who in addition

to running the Patchwork shows alongside her aunt, recently

continued her educational journey, completing graduate school.

Like a quilt, the Patchwork Show begs to be expanded.

“We have a couple of different cities on our radar,” Stevenson

says enthusiastically. “San Diego and Phoenix are high on our

list.” Since the very first show in Santa Ana, the homegrown

movement has absolutely exploded. There definitely isn’t a

shortage of artistically-minded individuals or a lack of a desire

for locally sourced and independently created goods, regardless

of location. There’s comfort in knowing that your vegan cupcake

is locally produced and 100% organic, and that your quirky

screen printed t-shirt purchase is supporting a student as they

pay for college. There is also the sense of community that

modern civilization generally lacks where business is concerned.

“We’ve talked before about doing a beer garden,” Stevenson

immediately replies when asked about the future evolution of

Patchwork. She also wants to bring in an educational aspect

explaining that in addition to interactive crafting booths, more

demos would be ideal.

This fall you can take your pick from four different Patchwork

Shows. Opening day is in Culver City by the historic Helms

Bakery on November 4, then heading south to the seaside in

Long Beach on November 11. The newest location, and first

traipse out of Southern California, the Oakland show, will be

on November 18 at the Jack London Square Pavilion. And last,

where it all began, the Santa Ana show will be on November

25th at its new location in downtown Santa Ana on Sycamore

and Second Street. All shows are from 11am to 5pm and are free

for the public to attend.

In addition to the

spring Patchwork Show,

Craftcation is the newest

endeavor produced by

Snell and Stevenson.

“Craftcation: Indie

Business & DIY Craft

Conference” is a four day

indie business and DIY

conference, held in the

coastal locale of Ventura.

It will feature everything

from industry professional led workshops to panel discussions

and Q&A sessions in the areas of business, various crafts and

delicious foods. “It’s a learning vacation,” says Stevenson. In

addition to the diverse selection of workshops, Craftcation is an

incredible setting for artists and entrepreneurs, both budding and

veteran, to network amongst a like-minded crowd.

At both the Patchwork Show and Craftcation, you get to meet

the artists and learn about what drives them. And that drive is

contagious. If you’re guaranteed to leave with anything from

these events, it’s undeniably going to be a big heavy canvas bag

chock full of homegrown, passion fueled inspiration. That alone

is worth every penny.

The reD sWingtheredswing.com

lovmely lovmely.etsy.com

unurTh unurthhome.com

oPas soaP opassoap.com

baD Pickle T-shirTs etsy.com/shop/badpickle

goaT & keTTle etsy.com/shop/goatandkettle

look coy LookCoy.Etsy.com

hau’oli by hali etsy.com/shop/hauolibyhali

The FruiTs oF my labor fruitsofmylabor.etsy.com

Handmade Goods from 100+ LocaL Vendors, artisan food, diY craftinG, and indie music

cHeck patcHworksHow.com for upcominG eVents

aLL sHows 11-5pm & free to attend

PatChworkshow.CoMhoLIDaY 2o12

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The holidays are just around the corner

and what better way to celebrate in style

than the South Park Holiday Walkabout?

Local boutiques hosting trunk shows from

hand-picked lines, complimentary foods,

beverages, and music adorn this festive

event. Take a leisurely trolley ride to scope

out the galleries, stores, taverns, and eateries

jauntily decorated for the winter season.

Every store in the community takes part and

many have specials to highlight this holiday

celebration. South Park Walkabouts occur

every season; for more information visit

SouthParkScene.com.

Season’s greetings!

uPCOMing eVentSDATe: december 1st, 2012

TiMe: 6pm-10pm

COsT: free

PLACe: South park, San diego

from kalmia St. to Beech St.

WebsiTe: SouthparkScene.com

Make sure to check out graffiti Beach

while you are at this walkabout! 2220 fern

St., San diego ca. See you there!

state of uniqueStarving patriots looking to support the

American economy as well as their thirst

for fashion and art need look no further

than State of Unique. They host shopping

events in San Francisco, Los Angeles and

New York. This huge indie shopping

event is truly one-of-a-kind in that all

designs and products are made exclusively

in the USA. State of Unique showcases

hundreds of local independent designers,

artists, and their craft, allowing attendees

to get their creative shopping on while

simultaneously engaging in workshops

and craft projects. Bless the USA!

uPCOMing eVentSDATe: december 1st and 2nd

time: 11am-6pm

COsT: $10 (10% of al ticket sales go to

the downtown los angeles non-profit

organization inner-city arts)

PLACe: california Market

center’s penthouse

110 east 9th Street,

los angeles, ca 90079

WebsiTe: StateOfunique.com

south park Holiday walkabout

uniQuecrafted la

renegade SOuthpark

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renegade craft fairFor those who like to color outside the

lines and think outside the box, there is the

Renegade Craft Fair. Held across multiple

US cities as well as London, RCF features

contemporary indie-craft artists along with

their artwork and goods. This craft fair

highlights the indie-craft culture as a whole,

as well as DIY. Multiple media styles are

used by the up-and-coming artists who

showcase new creations while utilizing

traditional styles. Dare to be crafty and join

the featured hands-on workshops, as well as

enjoy the music and art performances – the

rebel in you will be satiated.

uPCOMing eVentSDATe: december 8th and 9th

TiMe: 10am-5pm

COsT: free

PLACe: los angeles State historic park

1245 n Spring St, los angeles, ca 90012

WebsiTe: renegadecraft.com

Crafted at the Port of laThis huge, permanent craft marketplace in

San Pedro is an unbelievable treasure. It is

a collection of warehouses that showcase

artisanal chefs, designers, and artists (many

who also highlight their creations on

Etsy) as well as their hand-crafted pieces

every weekend of the year! Along with

entertainment, grub from food trucks, and

demonstrations, visitors can enjoy special

events, and leave with a one-of-a-kind

creation that they can add to their home for

a unique touch.

uPCOMing eVentSDATe: friday - Sunday

TiMe: 11am-6pm

COsT: no entrance fee, $5.00 parking fee

PLACe: 110 & 112 e. 22nd St.,

San pedro ca 90731

WebsiTe: craftedportla.com

Eclectic pieces of different color, fabric,

and style are the backbone of a patchwork

quilt. The same can be said for the free

Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival, held

bi-annually across California. The show

highlights the talents of local new artists

and designers and their crafts, as well as

tasty bites from local restaurants. Clothes,

accessories, and décor are hand-picked

to ensure that your treasures are unique,

eye-catching, from a wide variety of arenas

and yet somehow all perfectly match your

aesthetic.

uPCOMing eVentSDATe: visit patchworkShow.com for

Spring calendar

COsT: free

PLACe: culver city, long Beach, Oakland,

and Santa ana

WebsiTe: patchworkShow.com

Patchwork indie arts & Crafts festival

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aRTa word that radiates creation and passion. At Graffiti Beach we are inspired everyday by amazing artists. They all have a unique way of expressing themselves, and strive to make a living through their raw talent. The holiday season is all about sharing gifts. This is our way of sharing undiscovered gems - an article all about ILLUSTRATORS WE LOVE. Ilse Valfré, Kelli Murray, Gregg Visintainer, and our very own Creative Director Brandie Mata all have one thing in common…they love to illustrate and express themselves through art. Not to mention, they are GREAT at it! Each has a unique style, whether it is through intricate designs with hidden meanings, girly bohemian sketches, quirky drawings of girls making bold statements or beautiful decoupage graphics with loads of color. To make sure we told each of these designers’ stories in the most unique way, we asked one of our favorite creative writers, Erik Cardona, to put a fun twist on each story. We hope when you read the story of each of these illustrators, you feel like you are sitting right there with them, getting to know who they are and why we have fallen in love with them. We want you to feel the warmth and love that Kelli projects, connect with Ilse’s Mexican heritage, be inspired by Gregg’s patience and leave with a smile from Brandie’s love of color. Get ready to be inspired.

aRT...

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- Ilse Valfré -

Fearless. Mexican. Woman. There are

three central qualities that run through Ilse

Valfré’s art like blood through her veins.

Be it through sketch work, illustrations,

writing, or modeling, Ilse embraces who

she is through unbridled exposition.

A seasoned scholar, Ilse not only studied

with Montessori guidance, but graduated

as a maestro. Within a year of teaching

young children, Ilse drew the inspiration to

create an entire niño’s book series, dubbed

“The Bambinis.” But brains are not the

Artista BonitaiVALFRe.COM/bLOg

Illustrators we love


Written by: ERIK CARDONA PhotograPhed by: KRIssy FERNANDEz designed by: BRANDIE MAtA Lighting assistant: GABRIEl GROvER Coordinators: Lauren adams and susanna Liang Hair: mish mucho Makeup: carLa KirKpatricK

sHegReeTsTHeDAy: upcycled cutOut Maxi

dreSS $45 / CHiMe: triangle druM cyMBal necklace

$64, SQuare druM cyMBal Bracelet $54, Black

druM cyMBal Bracelet $46 / PAPeR biRD Designs:

dOuBle-finger ring $30


sHegReeTsTHeDAy: upcycled cutOut Maxi dreSS $48

only part to this artist’s package. Ilse’s olivó skin, long hair, and

photogenic features have helped make her a successful model as

well. “I don’t consider myself an artist, I see myself more as an

entertainer.” Be it Ilse’s pictures, or pictures of Ilse, either way she

shines off the página; loaded with personality and a spectacular

sense of fashion.

With Ilse’s illustrations and color patterns reminiscent of those

one might find at an el Dia de los Muertos celebration, Ilse’s

heritage is easily to spot. Her characters masterfully blend

dark, shadowy foundations with bright and colorful features.

But perhaps Ilse’s strongest trademark is the personal anecdote

of cómico she stamps on nearly every sketch. “I think what

separates me from others among my craft is the blend of humor

and fashion in my illustrations.” For example, such charming

quips include, “Pretty girls are not to be trusted, Not all who

wander are lost, and I remind myself its ok not to be perfect.

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sHegReeTsTHeDAy: upcycled SWeater $52, key necklace $20 COnTinUOUs: grey leggingS $49 / sOCK iT TO Me: MuStache SOckS $9

Aside from aesthetics, maybe the best part of Ilse Valfré’s arsenal is

her intangibles. Her passion is central to her work and to her drive.

But unlike many artists that create for themselves, Valfré is very clear

about her creativo identity. “I do my illustrations with so much

passion and love knowing that some people will smile, laugh, cry or

connect with my creations. I just want people to have a good time

when they appreciate the final result.” However, Ilse has one especial

demographic she tends to with great care. “I particularly like to make

girls/women happy.” Her website contains an entire page dedicated

to ‘Girly Thoughts’ where she spotlights honest takes of real women

in real life situations. A pictorial role model to feminine truth, spirit,

and beauty, Ilse’s fearlessness to unmask women by way of her

illustrations send estrogen even down mi espina.


sHegReeTsTHeDAy: upcycled cutOut Maxi dreSS $48

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gb art

- Brandie Mata -

Life is Like A BOx Of CrAYONS

WRiTTen by: erik cardOna DesigneD by: Brandie Mata PHOTOgRAPHeD by: garOne africa


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There’s something bracing about youth. Reminiscing

about the hourglass sand that now rests in your rear

view. An earlier time when WarmAndFuzzy feelings

and new experiences trumped the jaded Black Shadows of the harsh realities of life which we become accustomed to

as adults. Without a flux capacitor and a Quick Silver DeLorean, most

of us have no choice but to accept life as it is, and leave that beautiful,

Raw Umber, childlike naivete behind us. Unless you’re artist/designer

Brandie Mata that is...

“I’m the girl that treasured her crayola box, and never, ever grew up.”

Speaking with Brandie is like sipping from the fountain of youth. Her

innocence, her sincerity, her unbridled, BlazingBonfire passion for her

work all Tickles Me Pink. “I’m very lucky to be able to earn a living

and steadily create. I get to feed my soul.” To Brandie, art isn’t her

pastime, it’s her sustenance.

Brandie Mata has an interesting duality that is atypical of your

average artist. Rather than sit around home, get Stonewashed, and

wait for divine inspiration from Deep Space Sparkle, Brandie took

her talents to the front line. She knew if she wanted to be Polished Pine, she needed to practice with other real world artists. With all due

respect to her formal training, Brandie credits her true indoctrination


gb artAvAilAble At ShopGrAffitibeAch.com or

in-Store 2220 fern St., SAn DieGo cA

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as an artist to a time period where she worked with

handicapped and severely disabled people. “They were

what you’d call ‘Outside Artists. No formal training,

but also no inhibitions. They created in their own way,

for themselves. They were raw, they were brave.” Though Brandie still

attributes her formal training to supplying her artistic technique, it was

her experience with these ELECTRIC LIME outside artists that opened

her imagination to coloring beyond them.

Brandie’s talent in artistic design has left countless onlookers in Wisteria.

However, despite the beauty left in the eyes of these beholders, Brandie

remains firm that there’s nothing MYSTIC MAROON about her creative

process. “I create for me, what I like, what stimulates me visually. I

realize it may not be for everyone, but it’s sure nice when it does.” Well

Brandie, here at Graffiti Beach, we’re all big fans.

And that’s not just nice, it’s Mauvelous.


bRAnDieMATA.COM

MUKee: SkateBOard earringS $26

gb art

i love seeing The DeTail oF an arTisT’s minD When iT is exPresseD.


ViZ inK ART: cardS $7, printS $35-40 / yeLLOW 108: driver cap $35 / POCKeT CHAnge: Sullivan plaid ButtOn dOWn $44

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HiddenMESSAGES- Gregg the Viz -

I am always thrilled when I interview an artist

off the typical path. Love, colorful imagery,

sunshine and lollipops; all artistic clichés we

get used to seeing when we think of illustrators.

Not the Viz.

Gregg ‘The Viz’ Visintainer’s genius stems from

a slightly different place. A blue collar, intensely

detail oriented, chip on the shoulder place. The

youngest of three boys growing up, Gregg grew

an appetite for competition. His desire for

overcoming obstacles in life has translated to

canvas, making him one of the hardest working

artists in his field.

One particular example came from a time in

Gregg’s life when he was isolated to a hospital

bed after back surgery. Rather than succumb

to stir-craziness, Gregg took advantage of his

situation, leaning on his art to carry him out

of the difficult time. His art took on a life of

its own, working as a means of meditation and

therapy for his mind. Four years later, what

started as a personal source for strength has now

touched lives throughout the entire West Coast.

When focus and patience meet, that’s where

you’ll find Gregg Visintainer. He painstakingly

accrues 60-80 hours per art piece. However, if

you asked the Viz, he’d say it feels like it takes

him 10 minutes. Time flies when you’re


Written by: ERIK CARDONA DesigneD by: BRANDIE MAtA PhotograPheD by: gARONE AfRICAstylist: MIChEllE AfRICA

ViZARTinK.COM

gb art

When Focus anD PaTience meeT, ThaT’s Where you’ll FinD gregg visinTainer. he PainsTakingly accrues 60-80 hours Per arT Piece.

AvAilAble At ShopGrAffitibeAch.com or in-Store 2220 fern St., SAn DieGo cA JeDiDiAH: flag tee $30 /

yeLLOW 108: Ball cap $30

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having fun. It is Gregg’s sincere

and unapologetic passion for his

craft that speed the hands of time

while he works. It also allows

for his trademark story within a

story that he so proudly hangs his

hat on. Hidden pictures, words,

and various meanings expressed

throughout his art create Gregg’s

calling card. These embedded

details tell a story to support the

theme of every piece - a story

everyone can plainly see, if you

only take the time to look. A

man who thrives on overcoming

challenges, perhaps this is The Viz’s

way of challenging us.

DiCK CHAsey: MuStache tee $28 / yeLLOW 108: BaMBOO SunglaSSeS $130

gb art

A Woman to Know

- Kelli MURRAY -

WRiTTen by: erik cardOna DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

PHOTOgRAPHeD by: garOne africasTyLisT: Michelle africa


8000 neRVes: dip dye dreSS $119 / beATRiCe HOLiDAy: Bike inner tuBe

necklace $38

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Kelli Murray is a simple woman. Devoted

wife, loving mother, beholden daughter,

auspicious sister, Jill-of-all-trades including

merchandising, graphic design, branding, fine art, and

of course, renowned illustration. Like I said, simple.

Simple in only the most ironic sense of the word, but

you wouldn’t get that from an interview with her.

As complicated as her life appears, she takes it all in

stride. There’s a comfortable, calming sense in her

controlled chaos and it didn’t take long to discover the

source. Blanketed by her faith, comforted by her love

for creation, and secure in her commitment to family,

Kelli Murray does not walk alone.

“The love of my family and an endless desire to create

and inspire makes me who I am.” Her words radiate

warmth off the page. I’m reminded of cookies and

milk, getting tucked in bedside, or curling up by a

fireplace in the winter. Kelli’s art follows a similar

path of piercing your heart while mending wounds.

A band-aid for the soul. “I try to convey my heart

and evoke emotion through a lot of my work.”

KeLLiMURRAy.COM


KeLLi MURRAy: printS $26-38

gb art

Much of Kelli’s artistic style derives

from a sense of realness. Not the

abstract or intense type of artistry

many creators rear back and pummel

our senses with. But instead,

comforting pictures of our world,

connecting us to a place we frequent,

but rarely inhabit. “I am inspired by color and texture, by the

people around me, by nature, emotion, and even just simple

every day things.” Kelli Murray’s straightforward work is

alarmingly effective. She emanates heart with every pursed

lip, coy smile, and occasional not-so-innocent advance from

her character sketches.

Though simplicity is a through line with

Kelli Murray’s finished products, it by

no means endorses her work ethic. “I

am a perfectionist, often to a fault. And I

am most certainly my own worst critic. I

think this stems from my desire to make

the most of the gifts and talents I have

been given.” If you don’t use it, you lose it. That’s what I’ve

always been told. It’s Kelli’s genuine appreciation for life, and

her place in it, that makes her never take her work for granted.

She loves what she does, she loves her support, and she loves

herself. Kudos to you, Kelli. May we all be so lucky. Of course

if you studied her work, you might realize...we already are. 91

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LeFT: sHegReeTsTHeDAy: Skull cut Out tOp $35 / CHiMe Designs: v druM cyMBal necklace $56 aBOve: 8000 neRVes: dip dye dreSS $119 / beATRiCe HOLiDAy: Bike inner tuBe necklace $38 / PAPeR biRD Designs: dOuBle-finger ring $30

LEG CANDyLegCandyApparel.com

TOASTtoastmade.com


e m e r g i n g B r a n d s r e v e a l e dHOLIDAY PICKS

2012

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Just like a coin has two faces, a woman has two halves. One part

sugar, spice and everything nice, one part strength, purpose, fearless

nerves…8000 Nerves to be exact. 8000 Nerves is a company that revels

in femininity, and it shares its mission through vintage Peter Pan collars,

touches of lace, bows and oodles of other girly details. At first glance

you see only the most obvious side of the softer sex with “a touch of

quirky and colorful, moving to more sophisticated and fun”. The models

are dainty and the fabric is noticeable in its carefully

planned details. But the mission of the company

mirrors the strength of the women who don their

clothing. “Be daring, be free, empower yourself with

your 8000 nerves”. Their philosophy: “To embrace

yourself and feel beautiful from the inside out… the

idea is to own what makes you unique and dress the

part of the free spirited, colorful person that only you

can be. You are the master of your own destiny, and it

is YOU who will decide where you’ll go, how you’ll get

there, and what you’ll be wearing along the way.”

It is fitting that 8000 Nerves is a 4 sisters creation. In

a house full of estrogen there are no “male vs. female

jobs and roles”. Everyone pitches in, and everyone has

their own jobs. In the same way, these sisters were able to define their roles

within their company. “Revi is the oldest and is the ambitious, business-

minded sister. Leeron is the second oldest and is the organized, responsible

one of the bunch. I (Efi) am the second youngest and the ambitious, creative

one. Tami is the youngest and the creative, friendly, social sister. Our

different personalities work out well in building 8000 Nerves. Ultimately

we find a way to work as a team because everyone contributes a fascinating

perspective.” Four sisters equals a full house and a collaborative designer’s

dream.

It is not often that a little girl gets to take one of her hobbies as a child

and carry it into adulthood. Like any household full

of girls, there was an abundance of dolls. One of Efi’s

favorite pastimes was to design clothing for her Barbies.

While her best friend would staple the clothing to her

dolls, Efi would carefully and “gently sew all the details

together”. These were the “design seeds” that took her

into adulthood. “I love texture and form a lot. I love

colors and new concepts. I am inspired by those that

love what they do and who are driven to make a positive

difference. I find that helping others is very fruitful and

that my family keeps me on the right track. I am inspired

by music and newness, which can be mind openers. I

find that with an open mind, I can see the vision I’m

aiming for a whole lot clearer.” The vision that you see

when looking at their clothing is as clear as the wishing

well into which you throw a coin. With such clear feminine strength,

there is no doubt that any wish made by this incredible company will

be granted, and that 8000 Nerves will be bestowed upon every strong

woman that wears their clothing.

the duality of womenWRiTTen by: alana trevinO itaya DesigneD by: Brandie Mata

A DARK STAGE.

A lone voice… “People Don’t Dream

Anymore,” said aloud by spoken word artist

Maestro Gamin.

Bodies from Team Millenia glide down the

catwalk, light emanating from their gloves…

If this opening does not inspire creative and

imaginative thought… then the clothing from

Continuous that followed certainly did.

Continuous began with an eye-catching, soul-

searching bang at the L.A. Fashion Week.

Self-described as “ bold and confident,” this

company is maturing as they “grow into

their own,” all while taking the runway by

colorful storm.

The models begin to strut down the catwalk,

bright arm and leg bands carry over

from model to model. The theme reflects

the clothing line’s inability to feel fear,

continuously dreaming, as they splash bright

color around in just enough strategic places

to grab the eye of each audience member.

A dress with a floral print and earth tones

mixed with a brighter hue of flowing color

that makes a surprising, yet feminine pop.

The fabric, like the seams that run across the

legs, offer interesting aesthetic details along

with the layered fabric. Bright colors mix

with fatigue prints and are then covered by

sheer feminine pieces that add a girlish quality

to the overall appearance. One model wore a

bright orange bandeau top with fatigue fitted

pants and an overlay of knitted mesh that

worked like a dress or cover-up, softening the

Daring DreamtoWRiTTen by: alana trevinO itaya PHOTOgRAPHeD by: Jay Barlett DesigneD by: rhOel paghunaSan

gb out


entire look. Tribal, retro and boho prints and

stripes were also seen in dresses, leggings,

and skirts. Tight was balanced with flowing

fabric. Bright was balanced by earth tones. A

loud print was feminized by a carefully placed

ruffle or thin belt.

Men were dressed in board shorts styled with

bright tanks and hand screen-printed tees.

Sometimes a mesh tank was covering a bright

color, other times a short sleeved urban

hoodie took on the task. The male models

emphasized wear-ability and that Californian

easy going style that we have all come to

know and love.

Each look was paired with Paper Bird

Creations accessories. Chunky bracelets,

long necklaces, and multiple bracelets round

out each look. Each accessory complemented

by beautiful shoes helped to emphasize the

design that can be dressed up as well as down.

Based in Los Angeles, Continuous is

constantly evolving as they splash color

all over the industry. They are catering

to the Californian that likes to be noticed

and they play up the fact that the weather

requires more, begs for more, and allows for

more risks. Continuous is not only up for

the challenge, they meet it headlong. Fresh

off their MAGIC win for best emerging

designers, LA Fashion Week was a perfect

challenge. The men from Continuous dream,

and dream big. They plan to use their

successes as a springboard to their future

plans. Their styles ebb and flow, and they

play with the balance of trendy and classic,

while always… staying continuous.

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scraTchy anD elecTronic sounDs mesh TogeTher in a Dreamy meloDy oF laTe n i g h Ts a n D F i r sT lov es.

FIrE IN thE haMPtoNs

L.A. based indie band Fire in the Hamptons sounds like

the bratty love child of Phoenix and MGMT - similar

tones but with a younger and smarter attitude. Their self-

titled debut album F.I.T.H takes the listener on a journey

through the streets of buzzing L.A. all the way to the

back roads of Joshua Tree. They have struck indie genius

with their single titled “Stargazer”.

Lead singer Zach Arnett a.k.a “Zboy” started the

musical concept of Fire in the Hamptons with the idea of

making one song and see where it would lead. They were

so pleased with their first single that they decided to make

a record out of it, with the help of co-producer Bert Selen.

Thus, Fire in the Hamptons was born. Arnett, originally

from Northern California, has lived in L.A. for ten years

and says he started working on the album F.I.T.H. about

two and a half years ago. The album was released earlier

this year and since then the band has been touring and

rehearsing non-stop as they try to make their name known.

Fire in the Hamptons has evolved from the

inspired idea of a few into a full on band. This group is

made up of a sweet bearded drummer named Arron Bilyeu

a.k.a. “ABSK”, Ian Dowd a.k.a “Values” on lead guitar,

Emvy Venti on synth/ piano and of course Zach Arnett as

lead singer. Surprisingly the band also has some California

hip-hop roots due to Zach Arnett’s collaboration in a five-

man hip-hop collective called Ostrich Head as the Emcee.

Listening to a little bit of Ostrich Head, immediately

one is able to tell how Zachs’s hip-hop background

has influenced Fire in the Hamptons. Because of his

background, up-tempo flowing beats that have both energy

and chill have found their way into the music.

What sets Fire in the Hamptons apart from

every other L.A.indie/electro/alternative band trying to

make it, is that their music has a mood. Their tunes, in

combination with the dream-like videography portrayed

in their music videos, work together to create something

remarkable. Watching their music video “Stargazer,”

filmed in Joshua Tree it is easy to connect to a feeling

- a feeling of youth set free. There is a mood of true

uninhibited adventure.

WRiTTen by: cOrrinne BOllendOrf DesigneD by: ana fuenteS

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BAND NAME: fIrE In tHE HAMptonS BASED OUT Of: loS AnGElES MUSic TypE: roCk, AltErnAtIVE, IndIE, ElECtronIC

Currently, Fire in the Hamptons is working on a

new video project for their song “Children of the Sun,”

which will not be a music video per se, but more of an

experimental visualization to compliment the music.

Additionally the group is working on securing more

shows to galvanize a bigger following, or in Arnett’s

words, “have our music heard by the entire world to

make the world dance.”

Fire in the Hampton plans on playing in San

Diego some time in December and has a show coming up

at the Roxy in L.A. on November 28th.

Filming the music video was an adventure all

in itself. Arnett describes how he put up a long ad on

Craigslist in an attempt to convince an actor to come out to

Joshua Tree to star in the “Stargazer” music video without

compensation. On the drive up to Joshua Tree Zach passed

a drifter on the highway. Since no one had replied to the

ad yet, he thought about picking up the ragged looking

drifter for the music video. In the end he decided against it

and everything fell into place. A boy named Nathan, along

with his Aunt, saw the add on Craigslist and decided to

take a chance and drive up to Joshua Tree. They surprised

the band by jumping in and starring in the music video.

And that is exactly what this group’s mood exudes - taking

chances and living in the moment. Arnett admitted that the

universe helped out “a lot” in shooting the video.

tunagetrendstrends

97

fortune 421 runway show

at Graffiti Beach

dJ dr. eye

fashion Show Coordinated by fortune 421 team,

robert nguyen, estella Park, Grace Baek

Photos by Jose G Perez

Layout by rhoel Paghunasan

gb out

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reach Buyers, Trendsetters, Bloggers and more! For ad info please contact

[email protected]

[email protected]

LOOKING FOrCONTrIBuTOrS

LOOKING FORCONTRIBUTORS

LOOKING FOrCONTrIBuTOrS

PHOTOGRAPHERS, WRITERS, & ARTISTS

WE WANT YOU!

DESIGNERS

For more info please contact

[email protected]

For more info please contact

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