photo by Dean Bradshaw // words by Dersu Rhodes

Just wondering when I can get my life sized autographed poster of you!!!!???!!!?

would loooove to shoot with you ..:-) i like your look

You’re sooooo Tumblr phamous…

lindsay i miss you i dont know if you remember me i went to boys and girls club.

love how you’ve cut me out of your life.

You have some raw talent! Was just listening to some of your songs! Keep up the good work! ♥

I’m scrolling through Lindsay Perry’s far from private wall on Facebook wall and I’m not sure that if I kept scrolling all day, it would end. I wrote something on her wall about a month back, when she posted on her wall about having a creative block, and she responded immediately in a few sweet words. I remember feeling pretty cool, then I realized that she responds to almost every single person that writes to her, but it still felt like she actually read what I wrote, looked at it and responded authentically. Lindsay has 5,000 friends on Facebook and thousands more in real life. Spend an hour with her, and you’ll see why. Her smile is magnetic and conversations with strangers seem to spark like the flick of a lighter. Her demeanor, open and approachable, allows for rapid comfort in her presence and it’s easy to feel like you want to talk to her for a long time.

Lindsay’s blog Lindsea.com is filled with inspiring poems, short stories, art, videos, collages, and songs. She seems to tell so much about herself through her work, but as we sit down outside on the back patio of her friend’s house I realize that there is so much that I want to ask her and so much that the world still doesn’t know about her. I tell her that we want to talk about stuff that she hasn’t talked a lot about. Wanting to ease into the interview, I ask about her childhood and about any obstacles she overcame to get where she is at now. Her answer catches me off guard and I find myself immediately scratching out everything I wanted to ask her about on my pad of paper. Instead, I draw a circle on my pad of paper and write Lost and Found in the middle of it.

Lindsay was born in Panama City, Florida and was adopted at age 13. She moved out of her adopted parents house at 16 and was on her own for a while but was still able to complete high school. Two years later her biological mother and step-sister were killed in a car accident. One month after that her aunt passed away. “My outlet for dealing with all of that was art and music, something clicked for me, that’s what I wanted to do” Lindsay tells me. “I was playing open mic’s to make money to travel and was addicted to travel, art, music, and surfing.”

Lindsay then taught herself basic HTML and graphic design where she was able to soak in fashion and trends and apply those aesthetics to her own design and her life. She taught herself guitar. Laughing she tells me she can’t read notes or tabs, that she plays on sound and muscle memory. She never studied graphic design, however, as I look through her layouts and collages scattered throughout Lindsea, her awareness of spacing and typography tells me the opposite.  She has also recorded a few songs that can be found on her website, one of them she plays for us and her voice on the hook has a distant tint of Lana Del Rey and as she flows i’m reminded of a prettier voiced Micky Avalon in her cadence and pronunciations.

I ask Lindsay about inspiration and without a pause she mentions four sources – Bullet, Rush, Nylon, and Wad Magazine – and starts to list websites, a lot of them i’ve never heard of. Then she pauses for a second, I ask her if she wants to sit down as she’s been standing, “I just got these new shoes, and I like to stand in them” she says smiling. Then she looks down at her shoes and begins to talk about her mom. “The most inspiration I get is from my mother, she passed away at 40 years old. When she died we had started talking every day. Everything I do is for her, I know she has a lot of things that she didn’t get to do. I feel as though I have the strength and pride of two woman in one body, and that’s really my drive, my mother.”

We take a break from the interview and Lindsay takes her place in front of two massive strip lights in front of the photographers grey background. Dean steps in front of her and starts to shoot, literally 4 snaps in, he pauses and laughs, “I think we already have it.” He’s slightly joking but it’s quickly obvious how talented Lindsay is, she’s done this before and it’s intriguing to watch her come alive as she flips her endlessly deep long reddish-brown hair across the frame. The shoot proves to be fun and we joke about modeling and she tells us the benefits of being small, “you can fit into small spaces!” she says laughing.

The conversation comes back to her job, brand ambassador for the flourishing women’s brand Billabong, and what it means to be an ambassador. I can’t help but be curious as to how Lindsay is able to balance representing a brand, while staying true to who she is. “I am myself, I do the things I do and the promotion comes along with it, I wake up in the morning and throw on a Billabong t-shirt, because I want to.” Lindsay continues, “They are a family, and they appreciate who I am, so I don’t really need to separate myself.”

So realistically how much time is Lindsay spending online, and what is it like having 5,000 people see everything she is doing on her personal Facebook page, and are these friends real? Lindsay speaks of a time when she was becoming unhappy because of it, feeling lost, overwhelmed. She even would de-activate her Facebook for a month at a time, to gather herself and re-connect with what she loves (writing music, singing, painting, surfing) and then when she felt like she had found herself, would go back online. I thought back to my conversation with her on her FB wall, I hadn’t met her before, we weren’t really “friends” but felt I had a connection with her, like I would with a friend met at a coffee shop. In turn, isn’t this connection we are making online just as real? You could argue that it isn’t and that was why Lindsay was feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from herself. But then she is an ambassador to a brand, because of her widespread positive influence on her peers and her friends online and what she represents as a young, driven, talented, beautiful woman. We wouldn’t have known Lindsay if it wasn’t for Lindsea and her Facebook, so that is another point chalked in the favor of online friends, but that balance is important. “I have to give a portion of myself, I give a lot away, and it’s easy to feel like you’re left with nothing. I’m at a point where i’m working from the time I wake up, till the time I go to sleep, but i’ve reached a point where I love what i’m doing and I feel supported.”

Lindsay’s influence on the world is obvious and it will keep growing, we are sure of that. Amongst the many talents and qualities Lindsay possesses is the equilibrium she has found, with herself, her job, her travels and who she is. I think back to what I wrote on my notepad when I first met Lindsay, and i’m not sure why I wrote it then, but everything is on purpose on this planet, and I can’t think of a better diagram I could have drawn to describe her. There was a time in her life, losing her mother, her sister, her aunt, where she was so lost. There are times when she is caught up in the craziness of the industry, the traveling, the people and for a while she might feel lost but becomes found through her music, her design, her art, and her connections with people online or in the world. Her found is her inspiration from her mother, the strength of two women in one body.

i am not a cat from Lindsay Perry on Vimeo.

Follow Lindsay on:

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Photos by Douglas Heine | Words by Lindsay Colip

witness-this has already brilliantly covered the new division (read about their record and ep releases here) but we wanted to find out more about the four top that makes up one of our favorite bands of 2011. who are these guys? are they as dark and brooding as their music? what’s on tap next and when can we put on our festival gear and dance around to their live sound with the masses? we had the pleasure of hanging with these guys last weekend and got a better sense of it all. after you are done reading this article and soaking in the photos, hop on over to the central website and buy a ridiculously cheap ticket to their upcoming show on dec 9th. we will be there.

it says on their website, “shadows has only been out for a few months, but a new EP is already in the works. can’t stop the music from happening” and all i can say is thank god. but what does the process look like? how does an insanely complex song like memento happen? like other earth shattering things, it happens in a bedroom. it’s the most simple set up…a laptop and mic in john’s room, waldorf keys in janzie’s and a garage space where mark and brock come over to fill out the song. how they create music seems very comparable to how bob ross tackled painting. in steps. john starts out with the brush strokes, the main colors, the general landscape….and then the real magic happens when the happy little clouds start appearing out of nowhere from brock. or intricate trees from mark. or huge peaks from janzie. without fail, at the end of the half hour, mr ross would end up with a beautifully complex, detailed and impressive painting. the new division is no different. in fact, they are doing for the ear what mr ross did for the eye. not only entertain us, but blow us away with their skill.

it sounds like for their next EP, the process will be more collaborative. similar to how they wrote memento, which happens to be one of their (and my) favorite tracks to date. they constructed that song all together in one location over the span of one day. if that is the direction they are heading, i’m all for it. comparable to perhaps a fleet foxes song, memento is two distinct songs in one. you love the first half and think you’ve probably peaked and then wait, oh wait, something new is tickling my ears. if done correctly, this change up can be the most pleasurable experience. no surprise here but SXSW has asked them to play this year. i hope it happens because i’d absolutely love an excuse to go on a road trip to see them. not only that, i’m ready for them to explode into superstardom. the talent is there. the dedication to their craft is there. they just need a couple of festivals under their belt, another record perhaps, a few more sick remixes and boom…step aside depeche mode. your replacement has arrived.

the last thing i’ll divulge about these guys is that they’re actually beyond lovely. i was half expecting moody hipsters soaked in cantankerous cologne. well maybe not that extreme… but i wouldn’t expect to show up to an interpol photo-shoot or royksopp interview and find them finishing up a game of yahtzee while slurping ice cream sundaes. no, i wouldn’t. refreshingly, the guys aren’t moody or hipstery or cantakerous AT ALL. they’re funny and charming. genuine and modest. but i digress, back to the music. in sum, the new division makes you want to get into your car on a dark, rainy night and take a drive downtown. it also makes you long for the 80s where emotions were pinned to your jacket and one glance from the girl gutted you. it summons up your one eyed demons but let’s you roll down the window and blow them out with one long exhale. well done guys. you’ve made my top 5 albums of the year. 

Photographed by Dean Bradshaw

Interview by Dersu Rhodes

photo by Dean Bradshaw

I remember the first time I met Leah Dawson, it was in the ocean. It was a beautiful day and there were a bunch of us out. I caught a few waves before Leah paddled out, and after that I think I caught only one more, not because Leah wouldn’t let me, but because all I wanted to do was watch her surf. She is force, maybe that’s not the best word…an energy, a positive, swirling, breathtaking energy. Being around Leah is sometime surreal, it almost seems like you’re in a book, where your character meets a wise woman and learns about the earth and nature and themselves, and everything seems so positive and powerful. It’s almost hard to soak in everything she has to offer, and before you know it, she’s gone. Gone on her next adventure, across the world in search of love (that she’s found), surf (that she charges), friends (that she inspires, and is inspired by) and connection (with the people around her and the earth).

Witness This is immensely honored to feature Le’a, our heroine of this tale. We were lucky enough to spend time with her as she shared her world with us, and allowed Dean Bradshaw to take her photo. Now, we present to you, a true Genius: Leah Dawson

Where did it all start?

I presume on a Cool fall night in southern California, the first stage of my creation was sparked between two Daredevils and heart-lovers. Both of my folks love to push their limits both physically and mentally, always allowing their desire for achievement to path the road for success. So I was born into a lovely family, centered on making dreams a reality. My older brother and younger sister and I all grew up in Orlando Florida, where Mickey Mouse was our real best friend and Disney World was our backyard. So from a young age, imagination was encouraged. Now, I recognize the gift that imagination has brought to my life.

What part of surfing do you feel most connected to?

Ahh surfing, hmm my breath of Life. Surfing itself is what connects me to this earth, and knowing myself as a human being capable of working in harmony with the ocean. The joy of riding waves, these spontaneous energetic motions of the earth, has opened my eyes to the cleansing and rejuvenation process that takes place every time any human immerses themselves into the sea. The feeling of being renewed, refreshed, never fails every time I exit the ocean. I always feel more alive. Lastly, the barrel has always been mesmerizing to me, from a scientific, spiritual, and physical aspect, but I just recently realized what the incredible feeling is in my body after exiting a barrel resembles. Inside the barrel, energy is different, it is a silent roar, and cold but hot vortex, one that makes time slow down, and the through the waves’s release, i often have a tingling sensation all over my body, and my spirit and mind are completely present and ecstatic. I’ve only experienced this feeling one other way… Come to find out my name in Ancient Polynesia Le’a, stood for this very act of the ultimate ability for humans to feel and create anew, with incredible pleasure and a deep connection to something else than only ourselves.

Tell us about some of the projects you’re working on right now.

I’m currently developing and writing a screenplay for a film whose goal is to reignite passion amongst our human race to once again know and understand what it means to be a living human being in harmony? This question, honestly approached, leads to knowing about a healthy human body, the aspects our habitat we call earth, and what tools we as humans have to connect to earth, and therefore everything around us. What we have come across is an extensive realization of why surfers feel so drawn to the ocean in the first place… The more we seek, the simpler it gets… We are all a Salt Water Soul.

I’ve also been working on a still photo project in Hawaii with a photographer named Red Mahan. First time I met Red, we sat in the middle of Waimea bay on a jet ski, and he shared with me more insight about the female goddess energy and the incredible indigenous meanings of sex and love making. He strongly believes that when males and females alike begin viewing and treating women like the beautiful, creative goddess energy that we are, that this common respect will play a major role in the growth of ‘peace’ on our planet. Our goal is through still images and writing, to portray the female goddess in her most natural form, bringing forth a comfort in our own skin that we have neglected for quite some time. Too, during these photo shoots I have become overwhelmed by the ancient spirits of women who once touched these waters, and stared into this blazing sun.

Favorite song/artist?

Hmm can it be natures song by the ocean?! Human music wise, my favorite artist is one of my closest, longtime friends, the master and magician Kellen Malloy. He has always played music because of the soul, and our life lessons have always seemed to mimic each other in the evolution of our minds and spirits. His music grows every time I see him ( I seem to be on a 4-6 month cycle with California ). Music, the universal language that ignites emotion in us from head to toe. Always amazed by the existence that is Music.

What does the word genius mean to you?

Genius can mean to me, the recognition and follow through that the human entity is a magical creation, capable of doing and being things we may only be able to conceive of in our dreams. It is the belief that an individual can make a difference, A big difference. It is the passionate result of a human that finds joy and dedication to a natural ‘talent’. A genius is someone that believes they can see or do all things. It is the collection of these geniuses that will flip the switch of the human race to once again appreciate and work in harmony with the earth, rather than abuse her for her resources and pollute her with our left overs. A genius is someone that loves to create and experience. A genius is the happy human inside of you that is reading this right now. We are all geniuses, it whether or not we realize it that allows us to utilize it’s power.

Have you had to sacrifice anything to get where you are?

Other than not yet learning how to be two places at once,the only thing that ever tugs me, is that living my life of dreams has not allowed me to spend as much time as I would like with my parents and family. They are my roots, and therefore my life blood. Only seeing them for a few weeks every year has definitely been challenging. But it has also taught me to grow up, and to create my belief system solely on how I feel.

What was the turning point in your career, and why do you think there was a shift?

Haha well, there are quite a few careers… But they all culminate to one… Being a joyful human and a light to all around me. So I guess this turning point began when I realized my stage, desire, and ability to be a light. My senior year of college, I moved out to the North Shore of Oahu and commuted to town for my final year. My new roommate had this quote on the fridge, “the greatest illusion is that mankind has limitations,” -Robert Monroe. Ever since, anything I truly set my intentions on have come to life. I began manifesting great work when i graduated, that still allowed memo travel and surf. So now I am a camera operator for an incredible team that is taking Surfing back to the broadcast level. Surfing for me has never been a career, partly because it didn’t produce much mula for me, but more so because I subconsciously knew that surfing was my way of ‘connecting with the gods’ and the corporate world may have kept me from the incredible spiritual gifts I have downloaded from the sea. Of course, a sponsor and boat trips would be awesome, but I’ve realized that I have the opportunity and challenge to create my own way of being a Surf Explorer for life.

What made you look towards searching for big waves as of recently?

I’ve always been inammered by big waves. I had that big coffee table book of JAWS when I was growing up. I dont know if I will ever get to that point, but I do know that the idea of raising the bar always intrigues me, and it led me to surf Waimea Bay for the first time last winter. It’s this tinkering with life and death, but a knowing and a trust that life, in one way or another, is the only result, no matter what, is what makes it do-able. Granted, I was shaking and bitting my lips the first 20ft swell I experienced firsthand at the Bay, but the adrenaline it released was euphoric, and  I felt so very human. I guess it is the desire to feel that incredible cellular release of adrenaline in my core and attain that knowingness of my ability to be and act completely present.

Dream vacation?

I am Looking forward to doing a pilgrimage through the Hawaiian islands with the love of my life, Eldar. Life is a vacation in a sense, as the feeling of bliss and relaxation is a state of mind I release towards every day.

Who inspires you?

Wow, everything! Every flower, every bird, every shark, and every human continues to remind me of the incredible creation that is all life. I am inspired by every human I see living in love, with sharing joy with those around them. I am inspired by my parents to love and embody the gift that Is parenthood. I am inspired by my friends to allow the feeling of family to find my heart where ever and who ever I am with. I am inspired by the angelic humans that walk our earth who are actively empowering this world. I am inspired by the Ancient Hawaiians, for they developed a way of life focused on living in Aloha (love, joy, peace, to be happy with, basically all things positive). With the daily practice of Aloha, this ancient culture activated their human ability to be in communication and harmony with the superconscious, the universal energy so to speak. This fascinates me and inspires me to every day seek further, into the realm of the unseen, for we all know what intuition and dreams are. Life is a process of learning how to utilize these tools to create and enhance our daily reality.

Who do you spend the most time with?

Well, god, honestly. I love calming myself to a point where the conversation in my head is not one of constant blabber and nonsense, but rather one of intriguing wisdoms and insight. It is these moments of elegance with the superconscious that I enjoy most. Surfing and yoga both excersize my ability to calm my mind and listen to my spirit voice. Other than that, my gorgeous man of my dreams is moving from Israel, his homeland, to Hawaii this week to meet me and give our lives together an opportunity to flourish. He intrinsically fills that role of god in a way, as I have never known a human that freely expresses in the angelic way that he does. He reminds me to ‘be impeccable with my word’ and notice the extravagant beauty ALL around us.

Are you afraid of anything?

I am doing my best each and every moment to eliminate the feeling of being afraid from my life. Even in big, life-threatening surf, it’s the knowing of choice that allows me to always calm down and find my peace. I’ve recently realized that for me, allowing fear to be real just creates the space for what i don’t desire to exist. So by eliminating my Thoughts and Fears about certain things, they seize to play a role in my daily life because There is literally no space for fear to exist. But that’s just what I believe. And the beauty of this world is that no matter what, each human has their own perspective and beliefs. At the end of the day, what we believe tells of who we are, and who we would like to be. For me, it is simple, I believe love conquers all, and a light of love is what I’d like to be. All else is the fun details that this life allows us to create.

What inspires you?

Overcoming challenges. The fact that we live in a time where the people have an opportunity to regain their voice and together form the biggest comeback in human history, makes me excited to get up everyday and lend hands and heart towards creating a healthy future for our home, and all of it’s inhabitants. We are going up against the richest, largest opposer of all time. The Toxic corporate industry that is currently polluting our people and our only home with deadly, cancerous toxins must be stopped. We all deserve to eat a real live apple, not a collection of toxins and pesticides that looks like an apple, yet lacks the healing ability of a real apple, leaving our body riddled with foreign toxins we weren’t designed to ingest. We will, we have to, once again collectively realize that we are individually responsible for knowing the difference between living and dead food, and therefore all influence the market to make deadly toxins illegal rather than government funded. This challenge inspires me. As do a long,long list of tragic circumstances… Because we all have the opportunity to be a hero, to be a genius at this most vital time in human history. It starts with you, and ends with me. We are all part of the same human race, I look forward to the day we play as a team.

What’s next for you?

Love. . Joining my lovely male mirror in Hawaii this week. Then to France to film the Quik Pro for the live broadcast. Then to China to compete in the Swatch Pro World Longboard event. Then back to Hawaii to finish writing the script of my dreams with my friend Rochelle Ballard, film the broadcast for the Triple Crown, charge the biggest, best waves of my life thus far, and fly higher in love each and every day.

follow Leah’s blog here.
visit her website here.

Image by Dean Bradshaw

Kith & Kell – Wilderness King – EP by Kith & Kell

Kellen Malloy is a producer, singer and songwriter living in Oceanside, California.

What’s your drink of choice?
Jameson on the rocks.

Tell us about some of the projects you’re working on right now.
My folk project Kith & Kell is where I’m spending most of my time right now, doing a kickstarter.com campaign right now to go along with releasing the debut EP that I’m really excited for – i’ve gotten a really uplifting response from people I’ve given it to. Also working on a DJ collab with my friend Cindy, we spin old disco loops and play live bass over them which should be really fun. Also a dance electro side project called Cream Abdul Jabbar that’s on the back burner right now. Then just other composing work on the side to help pay the bills.

What’s the worst clothing trend you’ve been a part of?
I basically forced my mom into buying me size 34 waist jeans when I was like 15….

What are you listening to right now?
Been putting on Simon & Garfunkel a bit lately. LCD Soundsystem’s This Is Happening has been listened to about a dozen and a half times over the last month and a half. Really into the chillwave thats coming out lately with Washed Out and Neon Indian. Also M83′s new track. Bon Iver, Bon Iver over and over and over again. Goin back to 2004 a lot lately with Arcade Fire’s Funeral. Then just a bunch of old disco for the DJ project.

What group were you part of in high school?
Once a hipster always a hipster, hipsters 4 LYFE… haha nah… the ‘non-group’ maybe..? i dunno, i’m just glad schools over with – love you mom… (35 year science teacher)

Who do you spend the most time with?
I’m a hermit… probably my roomates and my buddy Duncs up here in Oceanside.

Favorite song/artist?
I’ve tried and tried but I’m consistently incapable of answering this question…. theres just too many and I’m always evolving.

What does the word genius mean to you?
In terms of being an artist I think its really just honing your craft over hours, days and years to the point where talent, vision, influences, know-how, etc – just culminate into creating something really outstanding and something that genuinely represents who YOU are as a person.

Dream vacation?
A comfortable summer excursion through Europe.

What’s the dark side of pursuing a career in music?
Nothing’s guaranteed in this industry. At this point I often never know from where or when the next paycheck is going to come. Later on its more dealing with shadyness…

Have you had to sacrifice anything to get where you are?
Since moving to California, quite literally, if I don’t need something I no longer own it.

What was the turning point in your career, and when did things start taking off?
Getting my first few big commercial composition jobs really gave me a big boost, but I honesty have not taken off from where I want to yet. I think I can say that its going to happen very soon and I’ve worked really hard at my craft over the last 2 years to have the confidence to say that.

What’s next for you?
Making the move to LA in the winter, pursuing management and possibly a record label that will help me look forward to a full length in the next year and a half. To continue honing my craft as an artist. And just to have fun, I’m 25, I use to think that was super old, not so much anymore.

ON THE WEB:
HOMEPAGE www.kellenmalloy.com
TUMBLR beardsalwayswin.tumblr.com
TWITTER http://twitter.com/#!/KellenMalloy

Photo by Dean Bradshaw

Chanelle Sladics is a Professional snowboarder, yogi, environmental advocate and entrepreneur from Newport Beach, California now residing in Oceanside, California. Beginning her snow career as a weekend warrior with trips to Bear and Mammoth, she found her love of competition and excelled quickly in order to keep up with her competitors that had a home mountain advantage. Now sponsored by Oakley, Nixon, Dakine, Kicker, Flux Bindings and the Keep-A-Breast Foundation amongst others – she’s an international globetrotter and a strong example of doing what you love. In our minds, she’s a Genius.
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What’s your drink of choice?
Coconut water

Where did it all start?
Newport Beach, CA

Tell us about some of the projects you’re working on right now.
One Life and Simply Straws are taking the majority of my focus at the moment. One Life is a group of girl snowboarders aspiring to spread environmental awareness and playful vibes through snowboarding, music, art, and working with a series of non-profits. We are currently working closely with Keep-a-Breast, Non-Toxic Revolution, and Protect our Winters. Simply Straws is a reusable straw company my family and I recently started to help people reduce plastics. I’m excited we are donating 10% back to non-profits educating and reducing plastics on our planet. ChanelleSladics.com is in the process of getting an update, so you can soon read and follow my projects there. I’m looking forward to utilize and share my new Yogaworks Teacher certification to share my love and knowledge of yoga to help people create more movement in their bodies and hearts. All of these are fun projects that I am passionate about.

What’s the worst clothing trend you’ve been a part of?
Spaghetti strap shirts, they dont work for my broad shoulders….

What are you listening to right now?
Today: Feist, Sondre Lerche, and Ratatat on Pandora….and Cindy Santini’s new “Cindian” project/Kellen Malloy’s new “Kith and Kel” being created at my house! Not to mention their Dj sets! Awesomeness, I love music!

Who do you spend the most time with?
Definitely my family of One Life gals….we organically found each other through our own individual weirdness and now live together about 8 months out of the year! I am inspired by these ladies daily; as athletes, comedians, musicians, film geeks, and environmental lovers. We have an epic time creating together, snowboarding, cooking, yoga, rock climbing, surfing, hiking…all of the above.

I am really connected to my family here in SD, we have a great group of humans making magic through music, art, photography, film, athleticism, and non-profit work….these individuals have all touched my life in a huge way, and inspired me to take my passions to new heights. Its always a pleasure to collaborate with these inspiring people… you all know who you are…;) I am soooo happy to get the time I do with them when I am home!

What does the word genius mean to you?
Progressive, forward thinking, intuitive, courageous, confident, humble, aware.

Who inspires you?
The characteristics I am attracted to most are: passionate, caring, healthy, contributors, artistic, athletic, activists, confident, humble, sharing…and especially fun!!! People with these attributes inspire me the most and I try to surround myself around this kind of energy.

What inspires you?
Movement. With my body and towards my dreams. Purity. Peace. Passion. Authenticity. Creativity.

What’s the dark side of pursuing a career in action sports/snowboarding?
Your body takes a beating.

Have you had to sacrifice anything to get where you are?
Goggle tan at prom? It doesn’t feel like sacrifice when the reward is so great. I wouldn’t trade my life for anything at the moment, I get to learn what many body is capable of everyday, teach people how to use theres, promote vibrant health, and especially see the world. This job has hugely shaped and molded the women I have become today! This lifestyle has shaped and molded the women I have become today! I have been presented with so many enhancing opportunities, and I try to say yes to as many as possible!

What was the turning point in your career, and when did things start taking off?
When I got a bronze medal at X-games, followed by winning the Asian Open.

How has the snowboarding/action sports world changed since you started?
Non-endemic sponsors have noticed the excitement and value in our entertaining sports. Allowing our events to become bigger, and attract more viewers. I hope to never see it become conservative and complacent, because our passion and weirdness is what makes us special! We are athletes, but often also artist, photographers, environmentalists…etc….it is a lifestyle based sport with many options for growth!

More money, often inspires more serious vibes, but I think our sport will always carry that punk rock “I do it because its awesome” vibe.

What’s next for you?
Getting ready for the season, and watching the completion of my projects that are under construction.

If the world is ending in 2012, how will you change your life plan?
I wouldn’t. One Life!

Follow Chanelle:

On twitter
On her website
On Facebook

Left: Adam Winn (Hot Damm) Right: Chris Hess (Cookie Sugarhips)

Image by Dean Bradshaw

Boy You Need Jesus by Le Blorr

Le Blorr spawned from the sass of divas past and the acid trips of rock n’ roll ghosts. The duo of Chris Hess (Cookie Sugarhips) and Adam Winn (Hot Damm) combine booty shakin psychedelic rock n’ roll with a sense of grit and beauty that captures the hearts of their listeners.
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WitnessThis: Where did it all start?

ADAM: In Jacksonville, Chris actually started first, recording songs on a laptop, with just a drum machine kind of thing, and he would send them to me. Then he started playing for a little bit with a guy named Travis, and then that fell out. Then Chris had a line of four shows coming up, and he called me and was like, “Hey if you have a couple days, you can try to learn all the songs and we’ll play.” We did it and it went really really well, and since then we’ve been playing together ever since.

WT: What do you think the worst clothing trend was that you were a part of?

ADAM: I remember in 9th grade my mom bought me a couple Tommy Hillfiger things. A nice shirt and jeans. You know the blue jeans, with the strap on the side. It was pretty bad.
CHRIS: I was a wigger until 7th grade. I was more of a classy wigger. I really liked playing basketball, and my friends were all like older black dudes. I would just try to dress like them. I also definitely wore jeans and flip-flops for a while, “jandles”. “Jandles” was a pretty bad time in my life. (laughing)

WT: What’s your drink of choice?

CHRIS: Tequila

WT: Are you working on any new projects?

CHRIS: We’ve been writing a bunch when we’re home. The last EP we finished, a lot of the songs were written two or three years ago. I’m definitely excited to record some newer stuff. I wrote an erotic novella, and I’d like to have someone illustrate it. I might just draw shitty drawings for it (laughing), or make a short film…(pause) but that would run into the porno genre..s.o I don’t know.

WT: Any sacrifices to get where you are at right now?

ADAM: I had to give up a job I really liked, it was my dream job, I was doing marketing for Nike. But when this was starting to get going more and more, I had to decide on one or the other obviously.  A couple girlfriends didn’t hold, from being gone so much, but that’s about it.

WT: What was the turning point for Le Blorr?

ADAM: Not the last trip, but the trip before to California, we met the guy managing us now, and the trip after that he got us a booking agent and started to build a team for us. His name is Rick DeVoe, and he’s awesome. He gets along with us really well, surfs, he’s just a really cool guy.

WT: How has the music scene changed since you got into it?

ADAM: I feel like it’s always kind of changing. Right now the music I’m seeing the most is grungy surf rock. But I think it’s cool how rock and roll does never die, its always there. I feel like that’s what were based in, in rock and roll, and probably always will be. I also love when bands try new stuff and they don’t stick to the same thing. We like to try all kinds of new things, but we always keep rock and roll as our core.

WT: What music inspires you right now?

CHRIS: Rythm of the Saints, Paul Simon, I kind of got obsessed with that for a while. Before when we were writing stuff for the EP, I was listening to more stuff like Death From Above, or Queens of the Stone Age. I’ve been listening to Tame Impala, and the old rock is always great as well.

ADAM: I feel like it’s always changing. This past year I was most inspired by was Tame Impala. But if you go back and look at the band I probably was inspired by the most, it’s always been Led Zeppelin and Radiohead, I’d say those are my two biggest influences.

WT: Adam, do you ever feel like you want a mic stand in front of you, to sing as well?

ADAM: Sometimes. Every once in a while I’ll get up there and talk, and we’ve been trying to work on getting my vocals going, but we’re not quite their yet. But we’ll get their eventually.

WT: What has been the best venue or best show you’ve played?

CHRIS: We played with Cold War Kids, at House of Blues in Orlando. We’ve been going to that same House of Blues since we were both 14, to go to shows. That was one of the best feelings to play there, sort of a surreal feeling, that was both of our dreams to play there forever. And when we finally did, it was in front of a really big crowd..it was probably one of our favorite shows so far.

Find Le Blorr in the following places.

Website
Facebook
Youtube

Image by Dean Bradshaw.

Marc B is a a singer/songwriter now living in los angeles – having most of his adult life on tour, playing shows all across the West Coast. For the better part of five years, Marc B has been roaming the globe playing music and inspiring people. The Orange County native combines a love of the nature, surfing and music to create songs with an environmental message. His passion for the ocean runs deep. So deep, in fact, that he’s used his music as a medium to expose some of our Earth’s most serious environmental and social issues.

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What’s your drink of choice?
Still searching. Peligroso Anejo ‘quila…or E3 Live.

Where did it all start?
Drinking or Music?

Music.
I was 10. We had a piano in the house since before I was born and I took piano lessons from the worst woman ever. Evil. I hated it. Across the hall was Rob, the mellow, weed-smoking hippie guitar teacher. Always with opportune timing, my Grandpa on my dad’s side passed away and left me his collection of small elephant carvings and his 1950s Fender Precision Bass, the guitar he was playing when he died rehearsing with his Dixieland Jazz band in a church at 82. Needless to say, it wasn’t long ‘till I crossed the hall and started jamming with Rob…

Tell us about some of the projects you’re working on right now.
Here’s a few:
-Just returned from a small tour of the South. Got to play in Nashville!
-Recording and releasing new music on vinyl.
-Starting the planning for a live album, to be released on vinyl sometime next year.
-Working on a licensing project with the freedom-loving guys from Pedal Driven, a film running the independent film festivals right now.
-Toying with the idea of writing an album based entirely from the poems of E.E. Cummings.
-As of late I’ve been reading a ton of historical biographies and listening to a lot of old folk records from the 1950s-70s…People like Arlo Guthrie, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell.. In that pocket of music right now…in hard. It’s inspiring me and I’m writing songs like crazy.

What’s the worst clothing trend you’ve been a part of?
Chain Wallets. I’m talkin’ like big chain. It was 7th grade.

What are you listening to right now?
“Peggy Day” from Dylan’s “Nashville Skyline” record, 1969. Side one just ended. I need to finish this sentence so I can go turn it over.

What group were you part of in high school?
Choir and Surf Team were my extracurriculars. I was a floater among the groups.

Who do you spend the most time with?
I am always with someone amazing! The people around me are incredible and inspire my thoughts constantly.

Favorite song/artist?
Changes daily. Today? Arlo Guthrie’s “Trip to the City” from the ‘67 release “Alice’s Restaurant”

What does the word genius mean to you?
The Greeks used to believe someone “had” Genius, not that they “were” a Genius…that it was an outside force that came through them. Learned it in a Ted Talk. Swear. To me, a genius is someone who is eternally happy, no matter what circumstance is faced.

What inspires you?
I’m inspired by human relationships of every kind: friends, co-workers, lovers, family, parking-police.
Also inspired by the ocean. Nothing else purifies, detoxifies, nourishes and refreshes me in the same way.

What’s the dark side of pursuing a career in music?
Travel is the best and worst. Losing a sense of where home is. Not having a home is tough, but realizing you are one of the lucky few where everywhere is home…rejuvenating.

What was the turning point in your career, and when did things start taking off?
My turning point was last year. Before last year I felt my struggle was alone. Last year I met an amazing group of people from all over the world who chose a similar path. The collection of like-minded singers, athletes, and artists formed a net that I have bounced off a few times already. Oh, and when I got on Pandora Radio. Since I’ve been on Pandora, a lot of random awesome shit has flown my way. I am very fortunate.

What’s next for you?
Recording in Hollywood. Releasing 6 track album on digital and 12” vinyl. Reading many biographies, buying lots of old music, and relocating from Downtown LA to Hollywood.

If the world is ending in 2012, how will you change your life plan?
Wouldn’t. BEST LIFE OF MY LIFE.

Find Marc B on Twitter, Facebook and Reverbnation

Image by Dean Bradshaw

Parker Ainsworth is a Singer/Songwriter who lives on a boat in the Venice marina, California. He spends most of his days writing, playing music and meditating. According to him, ‘Life is a Song’. These are his words.
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What’s your drink of choice?
Horchata and toddy coffee, delicious.

Are you working with anyone on any projects right now?
Yep, I’m working with fellow songwriter and friend Jessie Payo in a mashup/cover duo named “The Owl and The Pussycat” in addition to completing work on my new EP “Leave on the lights” with Robin Livingston, MC Yogi’s producer.

What’s the worst clothing trend you’ve been a part of?
Big rave pants.

What are you listening to right now?
The last Black Dub record, genius.

What do your parents think of what you are doing?
They respect my choices and believe in me 100%, I’m blessed to have such extremely supportive folks.

What group were you part of in high school?
Started as a hippie guitarist ended up a raver dj.

Who do you spend the most time with?
Myself.

What does the word genius mean to you?
What happens when one gets out of the way to let the divine flow through unfettered in full brilliance.

Dream vacation?
A two week surf trip to one of those lil islands I’ve heard of in Indonesia where there’s 4 breaks or so to split amongst you and your friends between home cooked meals and singing songs on the beach.

Who inspires you?
My friends.

What’s the dark side of pursuing a career in music?
Interacting with people that seem obsessed with money/images and fearing I could potentially become one of them if I lost my way. Doubt.

Have you had to sacrifice anything to get where you are?
Comfort.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a musician?
Riding around as a child with my mom in the car and noticing that whenever she was upset if we’d sing along to what was on the radio she always seemed to feel better.

What’s next for you?
After releasing this new EP in the fall; assembling a killer band, touring, making loads more engaging content, co-writing a musical, recording a full length album and finishing my yoga teacher training.

Follow Parker on Twitter.
Follow Parker on Facebook.

www.parkerainsworth.com

Image by Dean Bradshaw

Duncan Barnes is a badass filmmaker living in Oceanside, California. He cut his teeth filming and editing snowboard movies in Lake Tahoe and now works for blue chip clients all across the country. This is his story.
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What’s your drink of choice?
Whiskey. No, coffee…..No. Whiskey

Where did it all start?
April 14th in the desert of South Africa

Who are some of the clients you have created work for?
Lions Gate Films, Spike TV, Keep A Breast Foundation, Comedy Central, Nascar, J!NX, LAPD, Mattell Toys, Toyota… etc

Tell us about some of the projects you’re working on right now.
I’m working on a bunch of projects at the moment, Im currently working on a tv commercial for this rad gaming company called J!NX. i’m also producing a 2 year feature film that should be out in 2013. I’m always working closely with the Keep A Breast foundation. We just finished a 2 month art tour promoting Keep A Breast’s new program the “Non Toxic Revolution”. I’m also working with Chas Guldemond to produce a 10 episode, TV show about his life as a pro snowboarder. and the list goes on……

What’s the worst clothing trend you’ve been a part of?
Leather Ecko jacket. Enough said.

What are you listening to right now?
Atmosphere and the Black Keys

What group were you part of in high school?
I was only friends with the lunch lady

Who do you spend the most time with?
My Computer

Favorite song/artist?
Can’t pick just one..

What does the word genius mean to you?
Someone who has found true happiness.

Dream vacation?
A week without email or internet.

Who inspires you?
I’m inspired by a lot of people. Mostly everyone around me. Shaney Jo Darden, the founder of the Keep A Breast Foundation, has probably been my biggest inspiration over the last few years though.

What inspires you?
I’m most inspired by music.

What’s the dark side of pursuing a career in filmmaking?
Lack of sleep…..

Have you had to sacrifice anything to get where you are?
Too many things to count, but it was all worth it.

What was the turning point in your career, and when did things start taking off?
I think the turning point in my career was when I moved from Lake Tahoe down to Oceanside, Ca. Everything just seemed to fall into place. And then after the success of “Stoked and Broke” things just went out of control and I havent looked back.

Why do you do what you do?
Because I get to be creative for a living. It’s a pretty amazing job.

How has the filmmaking world changed since you started?
I think the biggest change in the film industry has been the explosion of new technology and the integration of social media. The internet has given film makers, artists and muscians a platform to showcase their talent to the world. Music and art is so independent now and its so easy to get your work out there to the masses for everyone to see.

What’s next for you?
A vacation…..

If the world is ending in 2012, how will you change your life plan?
I wouldn’t. Life is pretty damn good.

Thanks Duncs!

To see more of Duncan’s work, check out the following videos…

Just Be by Kyla Graves

Kyla Graves is an L.A.-based singer-songwriter. Born and raised in Vermont, Kyla has performed throughout the United States and Europe, playing original music since the age of twelve.

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Are you working with anyone on any projects right now?

I spent the last 2 years working on my latest CD, “Just Be” with producer Georg Egloff. At the moment, I am writing a lot of new material for an acoustic E.P I am going to begin recording very soon.

What’s the worst clothing trend you’ve been a part of?

Oh my, I would have to say back in the Elementary School days I was really into Over-alls. However, in the present day i try to keep it pretty trendy and fun, rocking feather earrings and hippie-chic accessories by my jewelry line Vintage Songbird.

What are you listening to right now?

I am really into Bon Iver’s first album, “For Emma, Forever Ago” right now. At this moment in particular, his song Skinny Love is playing on my iTunes.

What do your parents think of what you are doing?

Thankfully my parent’s fully encourage my journey and path to play music across the country from where I grew up in Vermont. My mother likes to say that her daughters both paint in “broad strokes” They are incredibly supportive and loving, and I consider my family to be my best friends and #1 fans.

Who do you spend the most time with?

I spend the most time with myself:) It takes a lot of focus and solitude for me to create and write. However, I get all of my inspiration from all of the beautiful friends and family in my life. I like to surround myself with creative, artistic, fun, optimistic people who fill me with courage and strength in my purpose.

What does the word genius mean to you?

To me, the word genius means an individual that has the creative power and influence to manifest their destiny, and inspire others. I believe that each one of us holds a little “genius” in us, and spend our lifetime finding our passion and gift that allows us to be extraordinary.

Who inspires you?

The people who inspire me are those who are living and breathing their dreams and desires. Individuals who have the patience and love to explore and know themselves, and let go of all fear and ego tend to inspire me the most. My friends, family, and fellow musicians humble and inspire me everyday.

what inspires you?

The natural world we live in and the beauty that surrounds us daily. Mostly, LOVE LOVE LOVE in every form, and gratitude for it.

Have you had to sacrifice anything to get where you are?

Yes, of course. I had to sacrifice leaving the comfort and beauty of Vermont and my family over three years ago to move to Los Angeles. There have been many other sacrifices that I have made to keep climbing this musical mountain, but I wouldn’t trade any of my experiences for where I am at right now in this present moment. It is incredibly hard to pursue a music career in Los Angeles with thousands of others living the same dream. It can be lonely, and daunting, but I try to keep most dark sides, and feelings out of my life, and surround myself with light and positive affirmations that I am on the right path.

What was the turning point in your career, and when did things start taking off?

I believe the turning point in my career is when I starting really believing in myself, and the music, voice, and message I have to share with the world.
I made my first official E.P in 2007 titled, “Loving Tree” with Jared Slomoff in Vermont, and then moved to L.A. In March of this year, I released my first full length album titled, “Just Be.” I continue to keep working hard, and will pursue my music career for as long as I can.

What’s next for you?

Next for me is The Amour Tour in August!!! I am going on a tour from San Diego, CA to Portland, OR over three weeks to share my music and love. I have also been writing for my next E.P coming out in the next year. You can check out more information on The Amour Tour at Tumblr.

Tell us about your kickstarter project and tour.

I have launched a 15 day Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for my upcoming tour called The Amour Tour, where I will be traveling from San Diego, CA to Portland, OR. Every dollar contributed is so appreciated, and I can only make this all happen with the support of my friends, family, and fans! Together we can create something beautiful, and I really believe in my music, and the message of love, sharing, creating, and inspiring. Please join me on The Amour Tour!! You can find my Kickstarter here and please share it with your friends!!

Other Relevant Websites:
Kyla Graves website: http://www.kylagraves.com
To contribute or share with Kickstarter: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kylagraves/the-amour-tour-0
For more info on the Amour tour: http://theamourtour.tumblr.com/
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/TheAmourTour
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You can find Kyla Graves’ music on iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon.com. Stay connected for future tour dates on Facebook and MySpace, and follow her on Twitter (@KylaGravesMusic) for daily updates.

Images by Dean Bradshaw

Originally from Tsawwassen, BC, Sean Hayes left the Metro Vancouver area about four years ago for sunny southern California, where he now lives with his wife in Oceanside and still skates regularly. The move was initially sparked by an offer to become the Plan B team manager in 2007, before he eventually established himself as an independent Action Sports Coach in January 2010.

“I think what I’m doing is still a little ahead of the curve, where some skaters are looking at it like, ‘What does a skater need a coach for?’” Sean says, as if he was reading my mind. “I’ll tell you what: if you want to get on a big company or win a big contest, you have to skate really well. To skate really well you can sit on your couch and mess around at the skatepark, or you can get there with a plan.”

As you’ll learn, it was an interesting journey that brought the 27 year-old to this present reality, and in his rookie year as an Action Sports Coach he already helped skaters like Ryan Sheckler, Jordan Hoffart, Sascha Daley and Aldrin Garcia reach substantial goals.

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What’s your drink of choice?
Whistler Mountain tap water…..Best water on earth.

Are you working with anyone on any projects right now?
The biggest project I am working on is with Redbull athlete Ryan Decenzo. He hired me for summer to help him prepare for the major events as his performance coach and to travel with him to events to help him execute his best work. The other big project I am involved in is managing skateboarding’s hottest new website, Hellaclips.com , check it out!

What’s the worst clothing trend you’ve been a part of?
Baggy pants, 90′s…enough said.

What are you listening to right now?
Kundalini trance music.

What do your parents think of what you are doing?
They are pumped!

What group were you part of in high school?
Sk8 or die…

Who do you spend the most time with?
The voices in my mind and my beautiful wife.

What’s the next big thing in skating?
Being an all around skater that destroys all skate spots, win contest, has good style, is cool, creative and fun to watch.

What does the word genius mean to you?
I have this tatooed on my ribs:

“Nullum magnum ingenium sine mixtura dementiae fuit”

There has not been any great talent without an element of madness – Seneca

Who inspires you?
Danny Way, Travis Pastrana, Todd Jacobs, Alessandra Solari, Lance Armstrong…So many, pretty much anyone that is pushing the limits.

What’s the dark side of becoming a professional skateboarder?
Drugs, alcohol, women.

Have you had to sacrifice anything to get where you are?
I moved away from my home country, family, friends…I walked away from a $100,000/year job to follow my path being a coach.

What was the turning point in your career, and when did things start taking off?
Ryan Sheckler winning X-Games gold, Aldrin Garcia setting new world record for highest ollie.

Why do you do what you do?
Because it makes me happy:)

How has skating as an industry changed since you first started?
More money, more problems:(

What’s next for you?
X-Games with Ryan Decenzo, trying to take out the big dogs of skating and win the gold medal!

The world lost an inspiration and true Genius yesterday. A Rob, as known by friends, was in a snowboarding accident in Chile and passed away doing what he loved. From Whitefish Montana, A Rob was a role model to groms and peers alike. He was a solid force of positivity and love in the snowboarding community and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his friends and family (Pam, Jeff, Jason Sean).

Make a laid back powder slash for us in the heavens Aaron.

Tailgate Alaska Episode 7 from TAILGATE ALASKA on Vimeo.

Tide Caught Fire by Vsal Moonwolf

Sam Luna AKA Vsal Moonwolf is a painter and musician residing in Los Angeles, California. We have had the good fortune to come across him in our daily meanderings for genius. These are his words…

Sam, tell us about your story.

I was born in a small town on the Navajo and Hopi reservation called Tuba City, went to school in Las Cruces New Mexico, moved back to Tuba City at the age of fifteen and then moved to Los Angeles at the age of 18.
I started this journey in the attempt to write a book about love and life and the pursuit of happiness. I realized though that at the age of twenty-one I had not lived enough life to take on such a project. So I began to travel again, along the way the things I wrote turned into poems more than anything else so I just continued writing poetry to document my path. When I got to Kenosha Wisconsin at the age of 23 I met some truly inspirational musicians that helped me begin to perform my poetry. The reaction I received encouraged me to hit the road again and share my words with as many people as possible. I returned to the midwest and finally decided to pick up the guitar and turn my words into song. I was always scared and thought I could never be as good as the musicians that I listened to every day. I realized that was the thing that holds all of us back. So in an effort to encourage others to believe in themselves I began to believe in myself. I played my first show three days after picking up the guitar and I haven’t stopped since.

When did you decide music was something you just had to do?

I have always LOVED music my family bonded through it. I was just always afraid that I could never be as good as Al Green or Jeff Buckley or Nina Simone or all the other musicians I love. But on the day I realized its not about being better its about conquering your fears and joining the party I fell in love with becoming a musician. I will be in its pursuit for the rest of my life.

What were you doing before you decided to take music and songwriting to the next level?

Just about every job under the sun. Seriously – landscaping, construction, personal training, serving tables, bartending. I even worked at a Chevron just for the Chevron shirt.

Favorite musician?

Everett Thomas

Mac or PC?

Kraft

Describe how you come up with new material and song lyrics.

I dive into life and try to extract the marrow (hahaha). The process has changed over the years. I find the best songs come from saying the things that are near and dear to your heart. People know when a song is honest.

Is there one of your songs you’re most proud of or that’s your favorite?

The two I wrote for my parents, Duermete and Graciously Greeting.

Favorite musical instrument?

Tie between the sax and the violin and my dad plays a wicked air trumpet.

What’s your favorite musical venue you’ve played in so far?

The beach. The ocean always roars with soothing applause.

Where would your ultimate dream venue be to perform and why?

I haven’t found it yet. I feel like any opportunity to play music to make people smile is my favorite “venue” that can be a street a café, a hole in the wall bar in the middle of the desert or your couch.

What keeps you enthused in the musical industry?

The fact that its constantly changing so if there’s something you don’t like pick up an instrument, grab some friends and make a change.

Tell us about the dark side of pursuing a career in music.

Theres a lot of poachers out there, a lot of snakes a lot of people that will try and take the originality you struggle to create and try to turn it into ordinary by dangling dollar signs in your face.

What was your fallback career option if a career in music didn’t work out?
There is no fallback. If you think for a second that you won’t succeed you never will.

Tide Caught Fire -Sam Luna Live at the Mint from Secession Obsession on Vimeo.

Tell us aboout your kickstarter project

Here is a link to the kickstarter

So I am currently recording my first album, which I am so excited to share with everyone. I am also publishing my first book of poetry which I have been working on for years, so I am eager to finally share both of these with you. I am asking for everyone to be a part of bringing this project to fruition. I have a great group of amazing people willing to be a part of this project already. I am asking that together we raise at least $10,000 in the next 15 days. I will be playing music and promoting this all over Southern California.  Playing shows, festivals, I have several different blogs that are spreading the word, and will be doing some radio shows as well. I also am fortunate enough to have AMAZING friends all over the world that will be helping me spread the word to all of their friends and family.

The money that we are gathering together will fund studio time, production, mixing, mastering, printing, equipment, my first music video, promotional photoshoot and will also help fund a tour that will be promoting this project through over twenty cities! Taking all this into consideration you can understand that I have asked for the bare minimum to bring this project to life. The more money we can raise the better this project can be. I will be filming the whole process and tour and be releasing a documentary on the whole experience as well. My goal is to make as many people smile as I possibly can and share LOVE. TOGETHER, I BELIEVE WE CAN MAKE A CHANGE. No art no life.

The tour is an opportunity to say:

the day breaks and i am broken
with the new light of color
that reflects the depth of my soul
the night falls and i have fallen
from the grace that has been bestowed
life is fleeting and i seem to be in its persuit
seeking a treasure that can not be found with mortal eyes
and can not be posessed with an unclean soul
so im left wondering if all these things that ive done
all these hellos that go unnoticed
all these hours spent thinking of you
all this love that is misconstrewd
has my life been wasted on you’
have i indulged my being with the thought
that maybe one day youd see my light
all the while forgetting to let it shine within
have i wasted my life on you
have i lived in a fairy tale
believing one day my dreams would come true
have i believed a lie to think
that one day we would see an end to war
have i wasted my belief on you
all these hours that have amounted to days
and all these days that have amounted to months
and all these months that have amounted to years
and all these years that have amounted to now
this moment when i write these words to you
and all your hours and days and months and years
that have amounted to this moment as you read my thoughts
were not a waste and could never be considered as such
because we needed them to reach this moment right now
the moment we decided to become the change we wish to see
the moment we stood up and said
i am tired of the way of this world
i am ready for change
i am ready for love
i am ready to end hate
i am ready for peace
i am ready
i am ready
i am ready
are you ready

And finally, who is your favorite ninja turtle?

You already know. If you need a color it’s orange.

Thank you Sam.

To find out more about Sam and his latest project, check out his website here and Kickstarter project here.

Tocayo works so fucking hard. Last year he was commuting from San Diego to Irvine to work a full day, then heading straight downtown to paint murals in El Camino till one in the morning. He did this for months, and it hasn’t stopped there, he is constantly pushing his art in new directions and is at the forefront of the scene in San Diego. We feel so fortunate to be able to spend time with El Gran Tocayo talking about art and what inspires him.

His love for painting and his lifestyle is very evident as he walks us around his house talking about, art, surfing, his dog, and his beautiful fiance (not in that order). Tocayo is a Genius, and so is Juan Marante the character behind the infamous Tocayo.

What’s your favorite time of the day to work?

Midday/late morning is my favorite time. I miss my freelancing days, I’d wake up, grab a latte, check the surf, poop, then paddle out if it was worth it or just start working and be done by 2 or 3 and then go for another surf. Those days are long gone but they are still in my head, hopefully one day I’ll be successful enough to where I can do my own thing from home.

Can you tell us a little bit about your process? How do you start? What are the steps to completing one of your pieces?

First step of the process is the thinking about it part, I hate that part, especially if it’s for a cheap client. I’ve learned to eliminate those out of my life, of course having a 9 to 5 helps turning down shit jobs pretty easy. Next step is loose sketches, then the tightening of the sketches and eventually the finished piece. That’s for t-shirt graphics but the process is pretty similar for paintings too. I think long and hard, and procrastinate like a muthafucker til it’s absolutely time to get shit done. For paintings now a days I’ve been experimenting with watered down acrylics and loose charcoal sketches on the actual surface I’m working on, then I leave all those shit drawings and subliminal writings (usually done at night when I’ve been drinking) on there for people to discover and then I paint the hero piece over it, and of course ink it, since my style is mostly comic driven.

If you had to be known for just one piece you did which one would it be?

Shit man, I don’t know, I don’t really have any favorites, but if I had to pick one I guess it would be one I gave my buddy Neko. It’s a greaser dude form a band, imposing that he’s the devil and he has some death figures around him. It’s a big piece and has a  lot of dark, scary illustrations within it in pencil. I guess that one would be it, but I’ve taken that style and kept rolling with it so all my new stuff is starting to look like it, so who knows? Maybe I’ll have another favorite tomorrow.

What do you usually listen to when you paint/draw?

Anything I’m feeling at the current time really, anything from 70′s classic rock, to cheezy hip hop, like Chiddy Bang or Kanye. Or I’ll just put Pandora on, it seems the stations get better at night for some reason. Am I crazy to believe that?

Is there someone whom has really influenced you in your painting?

So many people throughout the years, but at the core of it all, it always boils down to my hero’s growing up and reading comics, like Tom Fowler, Todd McFarlane and Francesco Francavilla to name a few. But artists such as Barry Mcgee, Thomas Campbell and those types are so inspirational to me too!

What has been your favorite art show you’ve been a part of?

Wow, there’s been some great one’s, I’ve done 2 for Sezio that have had great turnouts and they we’re in cool locations, one was a solo show at the Luce Loft right by Petco Park, that was rad. But my friend’s Sean and Stacey threw the mother of all shows at a restored building in Bankers Hill, where all the rooms had a different artist paired up with a musician or DJ. Fucking genius! But there have been many other awesome one’s that I just can’t name for boring the reader’s sake.

What are the good and bad parts of being an artist in San Diego?

The good part is, you live in San Diego, helloooo! This place is unreal. Sick neighborhoods, spectacular views, amazing weather, good waves, mellow people (for the most part) and yes… all this affects the way Art comes out. It’s such an inspiring city, there are so many talented artists and musicians all around us. All you have to do is break your routine and drive down to the city if you live in North County and vice-versa, there is much more going on outside your bubbles that you can imagine. The only down side, if you want to see it that way, is this isn’t a metropolitan city. So no, there aren’t millions of people everywhere like say NYC or Miami or LA, so the art and music scene stays pretty mellow for the most part, with some occasional main stream attention from time to time. But I wouldn’t trade it for any of those cities, I’ve been or lived at all of those places, exciting, but not for me.

Are you currently working on any projects?

Yeah, always. I got a few mural gigs coming down the pipeline really fast. Also have a few art shows where I have to submit a piece or two for, so I’m staying busy. Also getting married soon, so that’s exciting. Gotta stay busy man, if not you go mad. Idle hands do stupid things…thanks you guys, you’re all fucking rad and I love hanging out with you whenever I get the chance. Thanks for wanting to put me on your dope blog. Take care and I love you.

see more of Tocayo’s art here.

-WT

art by Tocayo

photography: Dean Bradshaw

Russell Andrew Spencer is a 28 year-old visionary from Southern California. He has 11 years of experience shooting and editing videos, with 6 years of photography experience. Russell’s video style combines simplicity with vivid images and sometimes feels like you’re in his dream world. His photography would make any photo journalist smile.

our take: A portrait can be a daunting task to shoot because usually your models are beautiful, or interesting, so it’s your task to show the rest of the world exactly that. Then there is a conversation with the model that sometimes evokes a new image that wouldn’t be there with just person standing there. Russell knows how to work with people and it shows. We appreciate his simple, yet powerful approach to his portraits. More of an experience together, rather than a photo OF you.

Taya Rogers from Russell Spencer on Vimeo.

check out more of his work here.

You’ve probably seen this Genius’s stuff around the blog world lately, but we wanted to make sure you havn’t missed it. Lots of great images that are fun and play with narrative, but don’t go overboard with a cheesy story. A solid mix of still life and fashion style photography that feels so appealing.
To visit his site head here.

via mashkulture

Before I get into a shoot with anyone— I always ask, ‘what kind of photo have you always wanted to take? Then we talk about art, music, and daydreams which usually leads to a comfortable medium of familiarity where you can interact without directing as much.

Bill Murray, without question. One day I will.

We expect to see Danny around quite a bit more in the photography world, and we are humbled by his willingness to give us a glimpse into his.

Some images of Cardiff State Beach taken one evening a summer or two ago…

Images by Dean Bradshaw