VO L U M E
4
ISSUE
5
july + august
publisher
DANTE COLOMBATTI
editor-in-chief
ERIN DENNISON
art director
RACHEL MANY
online editor
RENﾃ右 GEORGE
photography
HENRIK PURIENNE RICKETT + SONES JUSTIN CAMPBELL JOSH TELLES EMILY HART ROTH SHANT KIRAZ MARK WALES RON PRE CHRIS CARTER
contr ibutors
REBECA ARANGO NOAH BRISCOE KACY EMMETT JEMAYEL KHAWAJA MEGAN LABER DAN MANCINI VI NGUYEN LINDSAY PRESTON ZAPPAS
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MITCHEL DUMLAO
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cover photo by RYAN SCHUDE
friends w ith benefits
Copyright 2014 by LA CANVAS. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without permission in writing from LA CANVAS. LA CANVAS makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but is not responsible for unsolicited or contributed manuscripts, photographs, artwork, or advertisements. LA CANVAS is not held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.
-"$"/7"4
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no 14 musician YOUNGBLOOD HAWKE spotlight AN INDEPENDENT FORCE playlist TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK
"35
no 22 LA STREET ART artist FRIENDSWITHYOU gallery M+B GALLERY OPENINGS photography LOST IN TRANSLATION
45:-&
no 42
q&a PURE PLEASURE designer CREATURES OF COMFORT store AESOP model behavior LEILA GOLDKUHL trends TREND MATRIX editorial DOUBLE TROUBLE insider ONES TO WATCH editorial THE RUNAWAYS
'00%
no 82 chef ZOE NATHAN & JOSH LOEB restaurant FIFTY SEVEN food scoops TEAM TACO bar GOOD TIMES AT DAVEY WAYNE’S drink A SCARLET SUMMER
no 93 NOTED events SCENE & HEARD calendar JULY calendar AUGUST last look RYAN SCHUDE
-"$"/7"4
5" # - &
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No
10
A N OT E
A NOTE i* 53645 )*. "4 .6$) "4 "/:0/& * 53645 )*. 8*5) .: -*'&u —AGENT SCULLY, 5)& 9 '*-&4
There are plenty of ways to problem solve, but
In this issue we decided to explore the concept
depending on the situation, quite a few of them require an
of “teamwork� throughout our lifestyle categories. For our
extra set of claws. Teamwork is ubiquitous—on the field, at
Creatures of Comfort shoot, we effectively crowd-sourced our
a startup, when moving your bed frame or playing Blokus.
social media platforms in order to obtain some bunnies. For
People are social creatures (even us sanctimonious,
our food section, we politely asked culinary giants and real life
internet-diagnosed
couple, Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb of Rustic Canyon in Santa
introverts),
and
civilization
is
the
product of a collective effort.
Monica, to interview each other. Having recently expanded
According to a study, Identification of the Social
and
Cognitive
Processes
Underlying
their partnership to a club (with the addition of a newborn
Human
daughter), the foodie family has even more to celebrate
Cumulative Culture, from biologists at St. Andrews
(and juggle). The gang from Youngblood Hawke described
University, the ability to work together is the unique
the formula behind their chemistry, while the LA-based art
ingredient for Homo sapiens sapiens (yep, two sapiens)
collective, FriendsWithYou shared their universal takeover
success. In a puzzle test, pre-school aged children were
through a process they call “psychomagic.�
pitted against chimpanzees to solve brainteasers that
And finally, for our cover and corresponding Last
required collaboration in order to obtain stickers and
Look feature, photographer Ryan Schude walked us through
fruit, respectively.
what it takes to capture his complex narrative images. While
The humans taught each other how to solve the
the scope of the subject matter and commissions vary, his
problems, sharing both advice and rewards. The monkeys
irreverence never wavers. The process of conducting his
were decidedly on their own tip, with many even stealing
cast and crew is a fusion of planning and improv, suspended
their babies’ food. According to scientists, the impulse to
together in wickedly humorous cytoplasm.
work together is the secret formula explaining that “critical,
As I write this note, our core team is itching to
social, and cognitive capabilities are possessed by humans,
be rid of this issue. But predictably, by the time these files
but not other animals.�* Turns out, people have better
morph into printed pages, we will be delighted to share the
attitudes than primates, and consequently, get to enjoy
open bar at our Teamwork Issue party. And as always, we
Bravo, tapas, and Grand Theft Auto V.
hope to see you there.
Although the act of writing tends to celebrate individualism, publishing does not. At the very minimum,
*Redwood trees, ants, and bees thrive on connectivity,
print needs at least three players: the artist, the publisher,
relying entirely on collaborative efforts for survival. Tiger
and the reader. A multi-faceted magazine, on the other hand,
sharks, hamsters, and bearded vultures, however, eat
takes a village. Collaboration, among the 15+ folks listed on
their siblings, while black widows, praying mantises, and
our masthead along with our like-minded partners is the only
scorpions often commit inter-species sexual homicide. It’s
way we can deliver this book to you every other month.
a mixed bag, really.
ERIN DENNISON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
NOTED F I LT H Y F L O W
T
he LA-based rapper/producer Ty Dolla $ign has garnered a lot of buzz since releasing his Beach House EP in January and landing
the coveted cover of Fader’s “Summer Music Issue.� The artist, who recently signed to Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Records, is keeping busy with his single “Paranoid� going gold after appearing on DJ Mustard’s “Ketchup� mixtape and an aggressive tour slated to wrap up in September. Thanks to the “King of Filth� (and Urban Dictionary), we now know what a “boogawolf� is. 406/%$-06% $0. 5:%0--"4*(/
STRICT CONSTRUCTIONISM
AGAINST ALL ODDS
I
n
2008,
the
Impossible
last
standing
folks
Project
at
the
salvaged
over
the
Polaroid
manufacturer
in order to reinvent the old school, point-and-shoot camera. They started from scratch, reformulating old dyes to produce products like Silver Shade film, Color Shade film, and, most recently, B&W Image/Spectra film. Each took several tries to perfect the appropriate contrast and tonal range, but they have been successfully reviving the classic film formula for an anxiously awaiting audience
of
impatient
millennials.
Because, you know, everyone can spot
A
an editing app border.
THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS
5)& *.1044*#-& 130+&$5 $0.
A
s if it were even possible, the 9th and Broadway corridor just got a bit cooler.
Already home to The Ace Hotel, Aesop, and Acne, the DTLA destination is adding interior design to its resume of elite retail. Scandinavian design house, Austere boasts a painfully chic roster, including talents like Alexander Lervik, Teenage Engineering, Stockholm Design Lab, Altewaisaome, and White Briefs. Word on the street is they plan to host academic programming for upcoming workshops, screenings, lectures, and culinary events. We see some more parking tickets in our future. "6 45 & 3 & $ 0
HARDER. BETTER. FA S T E R . S T R O N G E R .
A
h, Vegas. A city that breeds about as
much
cognitive
dissonance
as
contemporary Johnny Depp, your best friends impending nuptials, poutine, and Jumbo’s
sexy
Clown Room combined. As any educated
entreprenuers: You can’t do it
Angeleno knows, there is only one appropriate
all yourselves. So, why not take the
way to take on the strip. Featuring opulent
time to invest in your staff?
Here in
suites, pool parties, and notable performers
startup land, we often find ourselves
like Bruno Mars and M.I.A., The Cosmopolitan
filtering through stacks of resumes for
facilitates a fool-proof itinerary for newbies
the
creative/1099/part-ime/
and veterans alike. The hotel’s latest offering,
intern candidate. Anyone who’s ever
Rose. Rabbit. Lie., transports us to a post-
done this dance knows just how much
modern fun house of spooky, magical depth.
undesirable contact there is out there.
Six identical doors lead to . . . we are obviously
Well, the guys over at Asortly are here to
not going to tell you.
comprehensively organize our bullshit.
$ 0 4.0 10 -*5"/ - " 47 &( " 4 $ 0 .
ttention
perfect
all
you
A Match.com approach to hiring is perfect for small and
growing
businesses
looking to satisfy a niche office culture. As for us? We’re into punctual, HTMLproficient air signs (rare). "40 35-: $ 0 .
No
13
NOTE D
S AV E R O O M
W
hat’s not to love about
a fulfilling alternative to the
a dinner party? Well,
predictable, industry, dinner
if you happen to attend your
climate.
share for specialized, work-
CANVAS’ Supper Club aims to
related purposes, there are
facilitate an intimate evening
gripes to be made about their
with an unexpected range of
general redundancy. While a
tastemakers. From cinephiles
gift bag, the usual suspects,
to foodies, we’re hosting a
and
curated evening of cross-genre
opportunities are nothing to
conversation. Keep your eyes
shake your Poketo Moleskin
peeled for more details.
at, we have been busy devising
-"$"/7"4 $0.
copious
This
season,
LA
GOOD JEANS
1
889 was a wild year. Four states were added to the union, Orange
County was created, the Wall Street Journal published its first issue, and Lee Jeans was established. The latter, founded by H.D. Lee Mercantile in Kansas, began making denim when jeans were still called dungarees. Today, the label carries over a dozen fits under their original Lee 101 moniker. Proprietary treatment allows the indigo to chip away from the cotton, resulting in a jean that ages quickly. US-manufactured, premium, salvage, denim and tailored fits—all at a much lower price point than most boutique heritage brands. Our goal is to wear them until they feel like pajamas.
T- S H I R T T I M E
A the
-&& $0 .
ccording to Psychology Today, Thursday is the sexiest day of
week.
According
to
Mailchimp,
Thursday is the best day of the week to send emails. Thursday is a pretty universal crowd pleaser, and the kids behind Mokuyobi Threads agree. The brand, Japanese for Thursday, is an homage to everything fun-loving with a
Futura
sensibility.
Indigenous
to
Brooklyn, these guys have a lock on colorful branding, featuring items like bright 5 panel hats, bags, and vibrant accessories. It should also be noted that their social media platforms boast a healthy variety of cats in cat hats. Meta. . 0 , 6 :0 # * 5 ) 3 & " % 4 $0.
A L I T T L E I TA LY
L
os
Angeles
is
a
foodie
destination with a second-to-
none allotment of restaurant options. But few connect these reasonably priced bites with LA’s most overrated love affair—the movies. Executive Chef Bryan Podgorski, on the other hand, is here to give the people what they want. Westwood offering, Tanzy combines fresh ingredients, hosts an epic brunch, stays open late, and is nestled within iPic Theaters. Order your dinner and dine among that 70 ft. screen. Think grilled Spanish octopus, braised beef short rib, and a stellar dessert menu, all for under $20 a plate. Three traffic lights away from the 405, and a solid option after a long day spent on the westside. 5"/;:3&45"63"/5 $0.
T E A M WO R K M A K E S T H E D R E A M WO R K The LAC clubhouse is home to a battery of temperaments. And for years, we have been trying to perfect the alchemy of the universal office playlist. Our dream has always been to stream one ideal allotment of tracks with no interruptions and no headphones—a utopia of aural cohesion, known only in theory. That is, until now. Finally, with a little help from our pal Dan Mancini (of LadyPills fame) we’ve cracked the code. Well, truth be told, he cracked the code all by himself. Regardless, take a listen—because we love you, we truly love you, and want you to experience collective auditory paradise too.
selections by -"%:1*--4
“You Know How� (CENTURY REMIX)
SLEAZY MCQUEEN
“Kishi Kaisei� HEARTSREVOLUTION
“A Stranger Love�
“Delorean Drums� TODD TERJE
“Cult of Love� DUM DUM GIRLS
“Ocean Emmanuelle� LIAM FINN
“It's Chemical�
(SALVA REMIX)
(LADYHAWKE REMIX)
CLASSIXX
UH HUH HER
“Citizen� BROKEN BELLS
www.grammymuseum.org
“Got Dem Freaks Wit Me� MOODYMANN
“Bonnie & Clyde� SERGE GAINSBOURG
“Gooey� (GILLIGAN MOSS REMIX)
GLASS ANIMALS
“Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow� TENNESSEE SEX RING
453&". 063 '6-- 4105*': 1-":-*45 0/ -"$"/7"4 $0.
TŬRNĪNG
PA
ŦĦĒ
YOUNGBLOOD HAWKE REWRITES AN OLD STORY text JEMAYEL KHAWAJA photo RICKETT & SONES makeup STEPHANIE NICOLE SMITH
musi¢ ĭs ŧħe ōne ŧħĭng we wânŧ ŧø dø witħ øųr lĭvęs. we've pūt eveŕytħĭng ĭŋtō it. The catchy melodies and uplifting tones of Youngblood
15?’ And then it was sold out. It was such a great response. People
Hawke’s tunes would suggest that some sort of idyllic confluence
really reacted to the music in such a genuine way. It just felt natural.
brought them together. That isn’t the case. Members Simon Katz and
You can tell when the crowd’s into it.”
Sam Martin found themselves increasingly alienated from their frat-
And that was it. “We Come Running” was released months
party, electro-pop band, Iglu and Hartly towards the end of the last
later, and Youngblood Hawke became an international buzz band.
decade and were struggling for direction. Martin tells the story best:
Just like that. With their second LP approaching, the band isn’t
“There were three of us—Simon, another guy, and myself. We started
resting on their laurels. There are rumblings of new directions, but
out kind of all on the same page. As the band got successful, the other
fans looking for the YBH signature sound shouldn’t worry. Martin
member turned into a really dark dude. It got really ugly and became
explains, “I don’t know if there’s any way to describe it other than
everything we were against. We walked away, and it was a really scary
evolving. The worst thing you can do as an artist is continue to make
thing to do because it was going well in Europe and the UK. But we
the same thing over and over again. We wrote the first album three
knew we had to do it because we were fucking miserable. The music
years ago. We’re different people now. I don’t think we’re going to put
was not the music that I wanted to be making.”
out a folk record or a dubstep record, though. We want it to be fun for
They walked right into their next project. “Sam and I locked
us on stage and fun for the people who come see us. Our first record
ourselves in his bedroom,” Martin continues. “It was tiny and had no
comes from a pop background and sound, even though the stories
air conditioning. We just wrote songs all summer. That was our way of
and the lyrics are dark. I think we’ll probably take that a little further
putting all the other shit we had to put up with for the past couple of
and just experiment, get a little weirder.”
years behind us.” From there, their musical ascent continued on the
In a lot of ways, the band’s story is an allegory to the novel
same humble trajectory that a myriad of other Eastside LA bands have
from which their name was derived, Herman Wouk’s Youngblood Hawke.
before them. “Our first show was at The Silverlake Lounge,” Martin
It’s an important book to Martin. “It was just one of those books that
recounts. “But we didn’t tell anybody. There were literally two people
just blew my mind,” he says. “It was my late uncle’s favorite book. It’s
there—including the bar staff. We were completely nervous. It was
about a young Kentucky boy who moved to New York. My whole family’s
our first time playing a show with the rest of the band. Alice had done
from Kentucky and I really connected with the story of someone leaving
acting before but had never played a show. I walked up to her after,
everything behind and chasing their dream of becoming an artist. There’s
and she was like, ‘I wanna do that again and again and again.”
a lot of imagery and stuff inside the book that really touched me.”
They found a sense of home pretty quickly. “Playing The
When pressed about the book’s tragic ending, Martin
Satellite was cool because, when we first moved here, It was one of
responds, “It definitely has a dark twist, but you decide what you
the first places we went to see live music. We felt comfortable there.
want to do with your life, and you just do it. That’s how we feel about
They asked us to do a residency, and it was an obvious yes. That was
music. It’s the one thing we want to do with our lives. It’s become our
kind of what started it for us. We didn’t really play that much as a
lives. We’ve put everything into it.” Maybe the fact that YBH were
band before. The residency was our third or fourth show. We would
born out of somebody else’s unhappy ending means that, this time,
walk in the door and be like, ‘Are there gonna be 20 people there?
they’ll get to write their own.
yøuňgbløodħawkę.¢om
p r e m i u m
u n d e r g r o u n d
www.parasite-eyewear.com made in france
No
21
SPOTLIG H T
AN INDEPENDENT FORCE -" 4 */%*& -"#&-4 "3& +645 4$3"5$)*/( 5)& 463'"$& UFYU 7* /(6:&/
Our fair city is home to some major players in the industry, including some of the most storied record labels in the world. But what of the indie labels making waves and putting LA on the map for its cultivation of independent music? While we could probably blame these guys for about 90 percent of the city’s scenester population, we’d like to focus on the fact that they continue to make the city a mecca for forward-thinking, budding musicians. If the names Hanni El Khatib, Banks, Classixx, or Nosaj Thing ring familiar to you, read on as we profile some of the labels where these artists have made their homes.
I N N OVAT I V E L E I S U R E Innovative Leisure, the late-night, side hustle of former Stones Throw employees Nate Nelson and Jamie Strong, hatched in LA’s underbelly in 2010. Initially, Nelson produced tracks by Machinedrum and Nguzunguzu before he and Strong eventually joined forces to release what would be Hanni El Khatib’s hugely successful debut album, Will the Guns Come Out. Previously the creative director for streetwear giant, HUF, El Khatib eventually quit his job, taking on a partnership with Nelson and Strong and paving a new path for the label’s insanely diverse roster. Since then, the label has brought us the soulful ruminations of Rhye, while giving life to LA-duo Classixx, Allahlas, Badbadnotgood, De Lux, and many more. As a small label with unique commercial success, they are a prodigious example of a niche collective that makes good music without having to sacrifice for profit margins. INNOVATIVELEISURE.NET
IAM SOU ND IAMSOUND began in 2007 when London-born, music video director Niki Roberton encountered talented bands who fell just outside of the celebrated Kanye / RocA-Fella bubble. Taking matters into her own hands, Roberton, eventually joined by Paul Tao, went the iTunes route, helping artists release music digitally. After discovering Florence Welch (Florence & The Machines) on Myspace, the label finally got its sea legs. In addition to releasing Florence & The Machine’s
and
smoldering songwriter Banks’ first EP, IAMSOUND regards acts like Lord Huron, MS MR, IO Echo, Kate Boy, and more as family. With such success, the label today has grown to include Anh Do—who heads up their events, music marketing, and consultating services. Collectively, IAMSOUND is proud to claim that none of their acts have the same sound, reflecting the diversity of the trio itself, and their adopted hometown of Los Angeles. IAMSOUNDRECORDS.COM
ALP HA P U P Everything Kevin Moo touches turns to gold. The Low End Theory founder, aka Daddy Kev, founded Alpha Pup together with Danyell Jariel. Initially created as a means to push Kev’s own music, it eventually became the home for many Low End-affiliated artists who were pushing the boundaries of electronic music and the beat scene. Today the label nests several artist-run imprints, including Flying Lotus’ Brainfeeder, Hellfyre Club, and Friends of Friends. Its roster also includes acts such as Shlohmo, Nosaj Thing, Free The Robots, the TeamSupreme collective, Nadastrom, and countless more. Needless to say, with such a coveted group of artists, Alpha Pup is one of the labels putting LA at the crux of experimental music. "-1)"1613&$03%4 $0.
No
22
ARTIST
cute is the new O n Fr i e n d s WithYou’s M i s s i o n o f C onnectivity t ex t L in d sa y P re ston Zappas
To understand what Twitter, universal connectedness, psychomagic, and rave culture have in common, one can simply sit down with recent Los Angeles transplants Samuel Borkson and Arturo Sandoval III. The two are the pair behind art collective FriendsWithYou, whose dream is to connect humanity one project at a time. Their style is Murakami -esque and post pop, creating pattern-draped, immersive installations and personified, geometric inflatables. They insist that no medium is off the table, their previous work taking on the form of plush dolls, large installations, screen prints, paintings, and, more currently, apps and a television series. When I get to the FWY studio, Sam is waiting for me on a large straw mat with his shoes off and pizza-patterned socks on display. As Arturo, or “Turi” walks over, also barefoot, they invite me to remove my shoes as well and take a seat. Having just
biked to their studio sans socks, I am a little worried to oblige, but after some good-humored coaxing from the collaborative pair, I realize that the mat (smelly feet and all) is a potent symbol for their dual creative process. Taking in the good with the bad, the pair transforms conventional dualities into experiential happenings, affirming their message of connectedness and well -being. While I am generally a positive and optimistic person, I do possess a hint of skepticism—perhaps from reading too much critical theory during grad school. Yet, FWY cut through my skepticism regarding their seemingly naive goals, for their optimism is strongly rooted in realism. While it’s easy to be cynical about the often maddening state of our capitalist culture, FWY strategically acknowledge it—and then they move on. They’d rather spend their time thinking about the positive. They think cute is punk.
“Pąrt øf makĭng art ĭs abøuŧ ĝeneratĭng šømeŧhing ŧħaŧ ĭs beyønđ yōu. Ĭt’s ţhe same thing with øųr relationship. We have found honesty in each ǿther. That’s ẅhere øųr møst beautiful arŧ has flowed frøm. ” Turi explains, “The whole idea of modern culture and the
The two re located to Los Angeles last year to expand
systems we have in place to monetize and incentivize are based on
their horizons, and take advantage of the creative energy that
a systematic bracketing of ourselves. They are also simmering down
proliferates the City of Angels. The broadcasting tool that LA has
into predictable and limiting ways, and these things can be exploited.
become—sustained in large part by the movie industry—strongly
We decided early on that we would flow with the capitalistic system
attracted them to the city. There is an opportunity here to reach an
to see how it can work for us, and let the ideas flourish . . . There’s
expanded audience beyond a more regional one in Miami. While FWY
no accepting the capitalist system–you’re just in it. Take the thing
doesn’t align with any specific religion, they constantly talk about
and shift it to your purpose. Change it from within, and, to some
the spiritual and the psychic. Los Angeles’ unique blend of cultures
degree, try to move the needle one way or another. I think that is
and demographics surely speaks to FWY’s blend of spirituality. “It’s a
in some ways more progressive than totally going off the grid and
kinda Buddhist, Christian, Jewish, African, Tribal mix. Just a happy-
boycotting the whole thing.”
with-yourself kind of thing,” Sam smiles. With a Los Angeles-based
“I’m assuming you guys are optimists?” I ask. “I am
solo show at Marine Projects in Venice and a MOCA book release party
Optimist Prime!” Sam responds. “OMG. That’s the best tweet ever. I
for their newly released monograph under their belt, Sam and Turi are off
have to tweet that right now. DUDE.” While Sam updates his Twitter
to a good start as newly minted Angelenos.
status, Turi continues, “We are realists at the same time. We know
The comprehensive monograph, We Are FriendsWithYou,
that we have a long way to go as people. We understand the pain
which includes the 12-year oeuvre of the team’s projects, features
of it, but we are just being the symbol of hope and happiness and
essays by Pharrell Williams, Alejandro Jodorowsky, and Peter
acceptance. Well, we are trying to be.”
Doroshenko.
The
book
is
somewhat
symbolic—the
pair
feel
Optimists, certainly, but not blind ones. The two have clearly
the freedom to close a literal chapter on some of their previous
worked hard to establish their reputation and credibility. They strive for
aesthetics, and dwell within some new terrain. “If we were trying to
balance, both internally and collaboratively. They don’t always see eye
build an art career, we would have just kept doing [work in our older
to eye, but that’s what makes collaboration such a fertile zone. Moving
style],” Turi explains. “But we’re not just harvesting our career, we
past their individual egos into seeing themselves in the other, their
are trying to get to something else.”
practice allows space for a dialogue to occur. “Part of making art is
By something else, Turi means global happiness, peace,
about generating something that is beyond you,” Turi implores. “It’s the
self-acceptance, and love. It’s a lot to accomplish in one lifetime, but
same thing with our relationship. We have found honesty in each other.
the pair are realistic about their lofty intentions. Dreamers, yet still
That’s where our most beautiful art has flowed from. We never have the
grounded in the messiness of modern life. He explains further, “It’s
problem where we don’t have any ideas. We always have five ideas, and
not that you are just an artist. You are a human first, then beyond that
the problem is deciding which one to make.”
you are some cosmic arrangement of atoms. But then beyond that
Sam and Turi met in Miami while both part of the rave culture in the 90’s. Their group of friends at the time embraced their
there are layers, and you have this social role to play.” As
FWY
foray
into
the
future,
working
towards
silliness and offered the two unequivocal support in the beginning
enlightenment, balancing internal energies, and managing their
inklings of their collaborative efforts. Their first joint project was
prolific idea base, they remain uncertain about which direction the
creating a series of plush toys—Sam had asked for a sewing machine
work will take, yet committed to the flow of ideas. “What’s next?” I ask
for his high school graduation. “We didn’t know about the art world,”
in closing. “Lunch,” Turi answers.
Sam confesses. “We came and just Mad Max -ed this thing.” One step at a time.
No
25
ARTIST
“ WE ÐĬDŊ’Ŧ KNØW ABOŪT
TĦE ART WØRĿĐ. AŊD JŪST WĒ CAME
‘MAÐ MAX-EÐ’ THIS THĬNG.
“ FRIENDSWITHYOU.COM
No
27
G ALLE RY
DIVIDE & CONQUER text + photo 3"$)&- ."/:
M+B &.#3"$&4 " /&8 $)"15&3 */ 5)&*3 $0/5&.103"3: "35 130(3".
It should come as no surprise that LAC shares a breath of the same artists as M+B. The gallery has remained a steady fixture on
the country’s best MFA programs: USC, UCLA and CalArts. The number of artists moving to LA is greater than it ever has been.�
our radar, nurturing some of the most enticing new artists right here in
Recently, the M+B program, which has maintained a
our very own backyard. From our past features like Matthew Brandt,
long-standing foundation in photography, has broken its own mold,
Hannah Whitaker, and Mona Kuhn, we’ve been pillaging (or rather,
transitioning into a wider understanding of the medium. The gallery
graciously and inspiringly appropriating) the M+B arsenal for a cool
announced its two-program split—with M+B, their newer, contemporary
minute now. Can you blame us?
focus, and M+B Photo, their existing program that remains true to their
We were first introduced to M+B long ago when a collection
photographic roots. “Almost all of the artists that we’ve shown in the
of Andrew Bush’s “Vector Portraits� surfaced for what became one of
past few years are contemporary artists. They don’t see themselves as
our favorite exhibitions yet. Bush’s voyeuristic, large-scale photographs
photographers or particularly tied to that medium,� Wetzel explains. The
of man and his automobile were beautiful, humorous, and poignant, and
need for the two programs became an obvious trajectory, with its former
fueled our curiosity about M+B as a whole. So when the opportunity arose
approach transcending its own limits of photo-based practices.
to get up close and personal with the team behind the magic, we pounced.
“This result was really about the artists and the work,� Wetzel
M+B sits between Melrose Avenue and Santa Monica
imparts. “By always riding the edge and constantly pushing boundaries,
Boulevard, in what appears to be a quaint and picturesque bungalow
the program reached a point where there were two different focuses and
home. Beyond the front cottage with charming French doors, in a second
it was time to make that distinction.�
(and equally inviting) space, lies the nucleus of the gallery, its traditional white walls and track lighting nestled within the ivy-coated driveway.
Now, with both M+B and M+B Photo under their belt, the programming is really taking off, shedding their more established ties
We sneak a walk-through of the property before Alexandra
to the lens in favor of prompting a new dialogue on the consumption of
Wetzel, M+B’s Assistant Director, greets us. “It’s the perfect example
art in the digital age. So what’s on deck for the gallery? Soft Target, an
of an indoor/outdoor California space,� she smiles. Indeed, the space
ambitious group show curated by M+B artists Phil Chang and Matthew
is relaxing and comfortable, with a grateful lack of somber stuffiness or
Porter and featuring a parade of artistic talent will be taking over the
pretension. Through a mutual love for photography and general aversion
gallery until the end of August. Additionally, a stunning new body of work
for Pilates Plus (can you slow it down just a little?), Alexandra takes us
from Jessica Eaton is set to take shape (“It’s her first time working with
through the gallery’s inception, its artists, and its evolution.
carbon printing,� Wetzel declares), and Mariah Robertson, one of the
At the helm of the gallery is Benjamin Trigano, who founded M+B in 2008 out of a deep passion for photography. Together with his
latest additions to the M+B roster, will have her west coast debut solo show in the spring of 2015.
team, M+B has spent its formidable years cultivating a roster of artistic
Evidently, this new chapter is slowly and steadily growing,
mastery, not to mention developing a reputation for signing on undiscovered
filling the page with freshly innovative processes of artistic production—
talent. “We bring on new artists when we see something amazing—an idea,
one that lies beyond the bounds of a once “traditional� medium.
perspective, or aesthetic that is unique and relevant to our time. Something
“We want to do something different,� Wetzel affirms, “and create a
we haven’t yet seen before,� Wetzel tells us. “LA is blessed with three of
destination‌where you can feel comfortable asking questions.�
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GALLERY OPENINGS ALLAN SEKULA SHIP OF FOOLS Christopher Grimes Gallery July 3rd — September 6th Opening Reception: Thursday, July 3rd, 6 pm Allan Sekula’s work spans the mediums of photography, film, and writing, producing incisive documents about labor, nationality, and the history and uses of photography. Deeply skeptical of the mythologies promoted by a society shaped by capitalism, Sekula’s work addresses the concerns of an engaged citizen investigating the networks of political and economic power and their intersection with individual lives and landscapes. | cgrimes.com DAVID HOCKNEY ARRIVAL OF SPRING L.A. Louver July 10th — August 29th Opening Reception: Thursday, July 10th, 6 pm Considered one of the most innovative artists of the postwar era, British-born Hockney adopts various new media in order to investigate the idea of perception throughout his career in Los Angeles and England. Embracing cutting-edge technology including Photoshop, Polaroids, iPad, and iPhone drawings, Hockney explores new ways to depict the seasons. | lalouver.com GENEVIEVE CHUA CICADAS CICADAS GUSFORD | los angeles July 11th — August 23rd Opening Reception: Friday, July 11th, 6 pm In Chua’s first North American solo exhibition, she continues to develop her interest in the relationship between controlled situations and the element of chance and the unknown. Through mixed-media installations depicting insects and their environment, Cicadas Cicadas charts the fearsome terrain of psychological horror from a Southeast Asian point of view. | gusfordgallery.com PIA CAMIL Blum & Poe July 12th — August 23rd Opening Reception: Saturday, July 12th, 7 pm Camil’s work engages with the Mexican urban landscape in which she grew up in. Through mixed-media installations that include photographs of halted projects along Mexico’s highways and abandoned, decaying billboards, she explores the idea of urban ruin and the traces of art history that exist within it. | blumandpoe.com DEEP END YALE MFA PHOTO 2014 Diane Rosenstein Fine Art July 19th – August 23rd Opening Reception: Saturday, July 19th, 6-8 pm Diane Rosenstein Fine Art plays host to Yale’s MFA thesis exhibition featuring works from new budding artists Erin Desmond, Awol Erizku, Genevieve Gaignard, Hannah Hummel, Fumi Ishino, Casey McGonagle, Tyler Moore, Hannah Price, Billie Stultz and Evan Whale. | dianerosenstein.com
AUDREY KAWASAKI, TARA MCPHERSON, DEEDEE CHERIEL Merry Karnowsky Gallery August 2nd – August 30th Opening Reception: Saturday, August 2nd, 7 pm Merry Karnowsky presents the unique styles and mediums of three female artists and their exploration of parallel themes. Through work in paint, illustration, and photography, Kawasaki, Mcpherson, and Cheriel invoke meditative and breathtaking narratives that explore the female form. | mkgallery.com
LUCY + JORGE ORTA FOOD – LIFE – WATER Ben Maltz Gallery, OTIS August 16th – December 6th Food – Life – Water marks the inaugural premiere of the Orta’s work in the US. The French duo appropriate sculptures, drawings, installations, and video in order to shed light on major concerns such as environmental conditions and climate change that define the 21st century. Their humorous, jerrybuilt contraptions gain power as works of art created to move us to awareness and action. | otis.edu/ben-maltz-gallery VARIATIONS: ABSTRACT PAINTING TODAY LACMA August 24th – March 22nd In an attention-compromised age when images are instant and prevalent, abstract painting serves as a contradiction, acting as a conduit for the mark of the original, individual artist. Variations: Abstract Painting Today presents 29 artists whose work reflects the language and style of abstraction. The exhibition looks closely at the claim of an abstraction that is timely and comments on a studio practice, paying homage to art history’s past while creating a vision for the present. | lacma.org
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Tuesday - Saturday | 11am - 5pm 217 South La Brea Avenue | Los Angeles, CA 90036 tel: 323.933.1021 | fax: 323.933.2537 | info@LabArtGallery.com www.LabArtGallery.com
Opening in September 2014
315 Cole Street | Dallas, TX 75207
P H OTO G R A P H Y
R ON PR E | R ON PR E.COM ERIN MITCHELL | LOSTANGELESSTREETART.TUMBLR.COM
Lost in Translation â—† photogr aphy A R IELLE M A NE SH photo assistant RJ M I N T Z models DA N ICA A N D NAT H A N @ Photogenics
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IJENRĬK PŪRİEŊNĒ: the arŧísŧ bęhĭŋđ yøūr møođ bøarđŝ
PŁEA SŲRĒ
pūre No
Q & A
42
THE FLUID TALES BEHIND LA’S MOST BEWITCHING PATTERNS
No
44
Q & A
Henrik Purienne is a South African born photographer and
Purienne’s nostalgia-infused images toe the line between
filmmaker who splits his time between Cape Town, Paris, and Los Angeles.
sexy and innocent, playful and seductive. In short, he prescribes an
His work has graced the pages of Galore, Dazed and Confused, Playboy,
idyllic yet wicked narrative to his beautifully aloof subjects. His eye
and Adult, and has shot notable campaigns for American Apparel, Maison
sees beyond the image, to the printed page, encapsulating a breed of
Kitsune, and Mlle Mademoiselle. In 2010, Henrik founded Mirage, an
scholarly elegance with a healthy dash of voyeurism one might describe
international, print, fashion magazine, and, more recently, Purienne, a
as chic-ly nefarious. Okay, we were intrigued. And like a good sport, he
photo book of summer holiday snapshots, portraits, and outtakes.
placated us—during an international layover, naturally:
SO, WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING YOU? I’m never really happy or sad. So apparently that makes me a psychopath? I get to travel and do what I like. Does that make me happy? No. But it sure does not make me sad. CHILDHOOD ASPIRATIONS? An architect. Obviously. But the idea of so much stereotypical human activity taking shape within or as a result of my creation repulsed me. WAS THERE EVER ANY INDICATION THAT YOU’D BE DOING WHAT YOU ARE NOW? When I was about eight years old I discovered a Sony Betamax video camera at my best friend’s house. Turns out his mother was a bit of an amateur filmmaker before she started a family. She actually made the most beautifully sensitive wedding videos. I became totally obsessed with mastering its technical and narrative potential. Even back then, I found the idea of having to rely on others to make a little film quite frustrating. There I was, hooked up to this Betamax backpack shouting instructions from the rooftop like a wrecking ball. I was all sweaty and sunburned, and my friends really just
IN WHAT WAYS, IF AT ALL, HAS YOUR STYLE OR SUBJECT MATTER CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED? Since my black and white landscape days at art school, I have moved on to the shooting-my-girlfriends-snapshot years, to a more classic approach in my recent fashion and personal work. Although it’s always been pretty much the same language. TOGETHER
WITH
FRANK
ROCHOLL,
YOU
FOUNDED THE MAGAZINE, MIRAGE. COULD YOU
wanted to play Nintendo and drink cream soda.
TELL US YOUR THINKING BEHIND IT?
HAS THE PROCESS OF TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS
superficial obsessions—architecture, girls, cars, and
CHANGED THE WAY YOU LOOK AT THINGS? I think the way I look at things determines how I take photos.
Mirage is a scrapbook serving as an outlet for my more summer holidays. Or maybe these are the important things and everything else is superficial? HOW
DO
YOU
FEEL
ABOUT
OTHER
PHOTOGRAPHERS BITING YOUR IMAGERY? Photography is my lover, not my wife.
PURIENNE.COM // MIRAGEMAG.COM // @PURIENNE //
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No
48
DESIGN ER
CRĒATŬRES øf CØMFØRŦ: Høẃ Ŧħę Ēłeĝanŧ Ēmpørĭųm Wăs Børn
pħøŧogrāphỳ JŪSŦIŊ CAMPBĒLŁ sŧylĭng MARİSSA PĒĐEŊ mākęup ĴENNA KRĬSTIŊA // hāír SYŁVĪA WĦEĒŁER mødel RIŊA KĀRŬNA @ Ŵiłhēlmĭnā Møđēłs texŧ ĘRĬN ÐĒNŊISØN Spęciāł tħaŋks tø Ĝrømĭŧ ānđ Sīgğy Būnsøń
previous page top CREATURES OF COMFORT hat GLADYS TAMEZ MILLINERY this page top CREATURES OF COMFORT neck tie VINTAGE undies AMERICAN APPAREL boots FRYE socks STANCE
No
51
DE S IGNE R
Ł
ike most captivating creatures, Jade Lai
Quickly after it’s conception, the store gained
is multifaceted. It comes as no surprise
a reputation on both coasts for discovering emerging
that
fashion
the
architecture-student-turned
graphic-designer
with
a
designers
like
Rachel
Comey,
Bernhard
fondness
Willhelm, and Christian Wijnants. In 2008, Lai added
for textiles has channeled all that
a Creatures of Comfort collection to the roster. Retro-
interdisciplinary expertise to explore entrepreneurial
inspired, drapey, sheer basics and smartly tailored
pursuits. Creatures of Comfort, Lai’s brainchild, is
slacks are all encompassed within an effortless pallet
a thoughtful emporium of elevated design. With its
of earthy neutrals. Each piece is chic, wearable, poised,
inaugural storefront on Melrose, its second act nestled
and able to breathe the same air as its heavy-hitting
in SoHo, and a successful in-house line, it’s clear that
contemporaries sharing the same retail environment.
this Jill of all trades has found her niche.
Unsurprisingly, Lai’s muses span far past
In fact, one could argue that Lai opened a
sartorial boundaries. She names her most potent
retail space in West Hollywood as an avenue to explore
inspirations
her catalog of curiosities. Creatures of Comfort is filled
Rudolph Schindler, contemporary painter Judith Seng,
to the brim (presumably panama, for summer) with
photographer Ann Woo, and iconic fashion designer
clothing, accessories, jewelry, and books, and topped
Issey Miyake. So how do modern architecture and
off by a clever selection of home items.
contemporary photography translate into a ready-to-
The
alchemy
behind
Lai’s
knack
to
be
architects
Pierre
Koenig
and
for
wear identity? Decisive lines, subtle hues, and a strong
cultivating talent is a mix of an uncanny ability to
undercurrent of utility are ever-present throughout
edit, her discerning eye, and affinity for collaboration.
each of Lai's collections.
Although she had always planned on carrying clothes,
Though she is bicoastal these days, a
fashion was never Jade’s M.O. It wasn’t long, though,
California state-of-mind has remained at the crux of Lai's
before her craving for intelligent design and the lifestyle
vision. Her favorite part about LA? “Space and attitude. I
it provided began affecting Creature’s merchandising—
miss my friends, the food, and the sunshine most when
in the best way possible.
I’m gone. But I really don’t miss driving, that is for sure.” Samsies.
top & skirt CREATURES OF COMFORT hat GLADYS TAMEZ MILLINERY shoes ROBERT CLERGERIE
romper CREATURES OF COMFORT hat GLADYS TAMEZ MILLINERY
No
55
DE S IGNE R
shop.creaturesofcomfort.us
No
56
STO RE
LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR $6-5 '"703*5& #&"65: #3"/% AESOP 4&54 61 4)01 */ %5-"
text &3*/ %&//*40/
As we head south on Broadway in downtown Los Angeles,
designers in order to contextualize a relevant vocabulary. Rather than
we can almost feel the price per square foot rise. The newly re-
re-brand the location, Aesop’s identity pays respect to the zip code’s
branded corridor of cool swells to a crescendo of refinement as you
structural pedigree.
approach its 9th Street intersection. There are cold pressed juice
The brand’s founder, Dennis Paphitis began his intelligent
options where check-cashing bodegas once stood only a dozen full
design pilgrimage as a hairdresser in Melbourne. He found that
moons ago. And while it’s in bad taste to discuss taste, to quote South
composure and order quickly recalibrated chaotic environments, diffused
Park’s Matt and Trey—here comes the neighborhood.
turmoil, and soothed customers. Paphitis controlled elements like order,
While the topic of downtown LA’s gentrification is hardly
smell, and noise to calm his workspace. He then began adding essential
news to those who crave perceived danger, the neighborhood—home
oils to commercial dyes to mask the harsh chemical odors, which clients
to a growing enclave of tastemakers—just received another notable
responded well to. After collaborating with a chemist to produce his own
stamp of approval. Aussie apothecary, Aesop recently joined the
hair products, dabbling with ingredients quickly evolved into an entire
ranks of the Ace Hotel, Acne, and A.P.C., adding even more cache to
product line of hair care, skincare, and fragrance.
the epicenter of the thinking man’s (and woman’s) luxury.
Since the line’s flagship store opened in Melbourne
Following their pop-up preamble this past spring, Aesop’s
in 1996, they have expanded their global reach to over 50 doors
permanent residence is flooded with ethereal natural light thanks to
worldwide. Aesop’s Geneva store encapsulates a swanky living room,
the boutique’s corner location. Six-inch cylindrical cardboard tubes
intended for an international undercover agent. Across the world,
adorn the walls—or, more accurately, are the walls. Recycled paper
their Abbot Kinney location’s concrete floor has preserved its previous
countertops frame the space, which is peppered with a trifecta of
life as an artist’s studio—sporadic paint splats and all. This time, with
vintage porcelain sinks. These aren’t just any vintage finds—they are
the help of local architects Brooks + Scarpa, the retailer has morphed
sourced from a local salvage yard. Because not only is the design
its newly acquisitioned storefront into a minimalist homage to textile
responsible, it’s thoughtful.
production. These guys are method.
So, what do cardboard and art deco theaters have in
So when you walk into 862 S. Broadway, expect the
common? The same ingredient that attracts the ladies (and gentlemen)
employees to be educated and purposeful in their delivery. Expect
who lunch at the Ace Hotel—LA’s Fashion District. Our modest urban
to be mesmerized by elegant typography and spatial presentation.
hub has discarded fabric rolls to thank for its renaissance.
Expect to be asked questions and offered succinct solutions. Expect
In all Aesop’s locations, the utilitarian dÊcor purposefully
to leave a bit smarter, a little poorer, a touch enlightened, better
takes a look at the streetscape to retain the existing façade of its
smelling, and extremely moisturized.
environment. Each apothecary’s interior is a collaboration with local
research—and they’ve been expecting you.
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Because they’ve done their
No
58
MODEL BEHAVIOR
pħøtogŗapħer LØŦUS JØSĒPĦĬNĒ haĭr & makęūp BRĬTŦAŊY SUŁLĬVAN sŧyłīng & inŧervĭew ĦIŁLĀRY CØMSŦØCK
Y
ou may recognize Leila Goldkuhl. With notable
Australia, I stopped in Korea and worked there. That
campaigns with Mink Pink, Urban Outfitters, and
was hectic—lots of work and really packed schedules.
BCBG under her belt, the former 3rd place contestant of America's Next Top Model (cycle 19) is now living
DO YOU LIKE TO TRAVEL?
in LA and signed with NEXT Model Management. The
At first I was terrified but now I love it and want to go
Massachusetts native grew up playing sports and was
everywhere. The most difficult part is being away from
initially hesitant to enter the modeling world. But
loved ones. Sometimes my schedule doesn't allow for
with a little success and a few trips around the globe
me to make trips home all the time.
later—she’s since changed her tune. Our gal, Hillary Comstock sat down with the 5’11 beauty to talk travel,
WHERE’S
competition, and marine biology.
VISITED?
YOUR
FAVORITE
PLACE
YOU'VE
I love Sydney and consider it a second home. But I HI! HOW ARE THINGS GOING?
really enjoyed visiting Cape Town. That's somewhere
I've been really busy. It's stressful, but I'm lucky to be
I really want to make an effort to go back to! It’s
casting, shooting, and working so much!
gorgeous and pretty laid back, and I love that you can see mountains from almost everywhere.
ABSOLUTELY—AND
YOU'RE
BACK
IN
LA
AFTER A LOT OF TRAVELING.
DO YOU THINK THERE ARE OPPORTUNITIES
I stayed in LA for a while after I signed with NEXT, and
THAT YOU'VE GOTTEN FROM MODELING THAT
they really helped me transition into the industry and
YOU WOULDN'T HAVE GOTTEN OTHERWISE?
develop a name for myself. After that, I went to Sydney
Yes, seeing the world while pursuing a career. I've also had
for my first international trip. I loved it so much and
the opportunity to meet so many different types of people.
was working consistently, so I went twice last year. After
But the best thing? The friends I've made while modeling.
zodiac sign? CAPRICORN. what is your spirit animal? A FAT SQUIRREL. do you believe in aliens? ABSOLUTELY. three things you can’t live without? LOVE, ROMANCE & FRIENDSHIP.
No
61
MODEL B E H AV I O R
YOU'RE VERY LEVELHEADED FOR A YOUNG
happens. I didn't have huge support from my peers.
MODEL. THERE'S A LOT OF COMPETITION
But my family and the people closest to me have
AMONG GIRLS YOUR AGE. HAVE YOU FOUND
always been so supportive.
THAT IT'S BEEN HARD TO SUSTAIN THOSE FRIENDSHIPS?
THERE ARE STIGMAS ATTACHED MODELING,
I always love seeing my friends succeed. Anyone I’m
THAT'S FOR SURE.
genuinely close to will want the same thing for me. Of
Yeah. It’s essentially putting yourself out there for
course, I want to work, but if [my friends] get the job
the world to throw stabs at you. There's some praise
over me, it isn't their "fault”—it just means they are
sometimes, but lots of rejection too.
what the client is looking for. Relationships are the most
HOW WERE YOU DISCOVERED?
important thing to me.
I'd say I was officially discovered when someone had put me in contact with NEXT. I had a Skype meeting
THAT'S REALLY REFRESHING TO HEAR. I THINK
with (the agency) and from there I flew out to LA and
PEOPLE FORGET THAT, AT THE END OF THE
began working right away!
DAY, WHAT YOU DO IS JUST ANOTHER JOB. Exactly. It's a job. It comes with perks, but it’s work too.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO GIRLS JUST BREAKING INTO MODELING?
BEFORE
MODELING,
YOU
STUDIED
AT
A
Be open to new things, but don't say yes to everything. I’m
UNIVERSITY. WHAT WERE YOU STUDYING?
sure there are better words of wisdom, but I think that’s
I was studying marine biology for a while. I loved it, but I
important to know. Don't ever feel like you have no control
decided to just focus on modeling for now and see where
over your life or career. It’s all about what you want at the
that leads me. If I decide to leave the industry all together,
end of the day and not what everyone wants for you.
I would happily go back to studying marine biology. I THINK THAT'S PRETTY GREAT ADVICE. IT WHEN
DID
TRANSITION
YOU INTO
DECIDE
TO
MODELING?
MAKE WAS
THE
SOUNDS LIKE YOU'RE IN A REALLY GREAT
IT
PLACE RIGHT NOW. WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE
SOMETHING YOU'D ALWAYS WANTED TO TRY?
TO GO FROM HERE?
I was in my dorm room one night and was like, 'Screw
Sometimes, I feel pressure to get to a certain level, but
it. People I know are probably going to make fun of
then I take a deep breath and relax. I'm lucky to have
me for thinking I’m special enough to model, but I’m
made it this far.
going to try it.' I’ve always wanted to, but I played sports. My teammates would tease me for wanting to
YOU'RE A SMART GIRL, I THINK YOU'LL BE
model. So one minute I was focused on school and
GOOD NO MATTER WHAT.
the next I was determined to at least try and see what
I'd like to thank the people who raised me for that.
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DUTCHI 3 LIMITED EDITIONS
DØUBLE ØUBL
pħoŧōgrapħy TK ĀNĐERSØN sŧyłīŋg ĐØNŊA ŁĬSĀ ĀBAN SØNİĀ ħaiŕ + makēųp MĒŁISŠA ABĀĐ mōđełs ØLĬVIĀ @ Ĭŋđusŧry Møđeł Ģrōup RIVĒR @ Ęlīŧe Mødēłs
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PREVIOUS PAGE swimwear TAVIK THIS PAGE lingerie FOR LOVE & LEMONS jewelry VANESSA MOONEY
dresses FOR LOVE & LEMONS
lingerie FOR LOVE & LEMONS // REFORMATION
No
73
ONE S TO WATCH
ONES TO WATCH LA’S FRESH FACES AND THEIR CREATIVE ENDEAVORS
text KACY EMMETT
HE FF + FLOW RYAN HEFFINGTON With flashy spandex and an aura of sweat, endorphins look good on Ryan Heffington. The LA-based choreographer, designer, and performance artist has been making waves in both underground and commercial dance scenes since “The Carlton” was a thing. His recent contributions to dance are exhaustive—from the “Heffington Moves MOCA” performance series and Sweaty Sundays dance parties to choreographing music videos for Sia’s Chandelier, Arcade Fire’s We Exist, and Sigur Rós’ Fjögur píanó. In 2010, he opened The Sweat Spot in Silver Lake where he takes natural high to a new level, encouraging beginners and professionals in the studio. It’s the kind of safe place where novice flailing is tenderly called “freestyle” and cardio isn’t a death trap. Remember when you had a core? We don’t either, but it’s under there somewhere and Ryan Heffington will help you find it. The sheer energy and influence that surrounds Heffington is legendary, and the dude’s just getting warmed up. @SIRHEFFINGTON // SIRHEFFINGTON.COM //
photo JULES FAURE
LO - FA N G A M A D E U S M OZ A RT LO-FANG With a freshly minted EP and little notoriety, Lo-Fang, aka Matt Hemerlein, was an incredibly overlooked talent. That is until Lorde listened to Hemerlein’s debut Blue Film (4AD) and declared, ‘Let there be Lo-Fang.’ Since then, the electronic pop musician has been nonstop, opening for Lorde’s spring tour and gearing up for another circuit this summer. Twelve tracks deep, Blue Film lawfully weds classical symphony and modern electronica with reverent ease. At once poppy and profound, the album radiates an ambient aura. Hemerlein plays every instrument on the album and composed the electro-classical tracks on a tight rope between deep synth and orchestral moments that would make a yo-yo blush. Track #88 is just under seven minutes, layered with falsetto turns. But he’s anything but a show off, just a classical prodigy with handsome modesty. We look forward to his next move—once he finally gets to take a nap. @L0_FANG // LO-FANG.COM //
photo LAUREN DUKOFF
DA R K A N D STO R M Y MEG MYERS We get the feeling that sunny LA days are boring to Meg Myers. At 27, the musician has already walked tall out of Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, set up shop in LA, and released two EPs with incurable, musical momentum—all while sporting a crop top. For her latest EP, Make a Shadow (Atlantic Records), Myers worked with producer Doctor Rosen Rosen to polish off the goth-pop, five-track gem, making it soothing, seductive and powerful. Up close, Myers possesses willowy loveliness. On stage, her presence is disarming and haunting, a singing, shaking powerhouse that levels the audience. With tracks like “Desire,” Myers lays out every shade of her emotional range, getting her serious attention and airplay. A raw force of honest vulnerability, there’s no doubt the tide will part for Myers as she continues to tour this summer through Bunbury Festival and Lollapalooza without breaking a sweat. A guitar, maybe. @MEGMYERS // MEGMYERS.COM //
photo MATTHEW BURDITT
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E D I TO R I AL
pħøŧogŗapħy YØSĦIŊO sŧyłĭŋg JUŁIĒT VØ pħoŧō ašsisŧaŋt ĐAŃIĒŁ RAMĬREZ sŧyłinġ assĭsŧanŧ DAVĪÐ PEĻAYØ
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ON CHAUN dress UNIF boots DR. MARTEN ring CHIC PEEK ON MILES blazer TODD SNYDER NY shirt + tie TOPMAN jeans DIESEL shoes CONVERSE
shirt SHADES OF GREY BY MICAH COHEN jeans BURBERRY LONDON
this page ON CHAUN shirt LAUREN MOSHI briefs COSABELLA bracelet COORDINATE COLLECTIONS (nailhead) bracelet WANDERLUST + CO. ON MILES jeans BURBERRY LONDON
opposite page ON CHAUN dress AGAIN sunglasses ONE TEASPOON ON MILES coat BURBERRY LONDON sunglasses TVR OPT
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E D I TO R I A L
ž ØE ŊATĦAN & JØSĦ LØEB
text NOAH BRISCOE photo EMILY HART ROTH & SHANT KIRAZ
We’ve heard the praise, the excitement, and the anticipation that surrounds any of the establishments of the culinary power couple Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb. Between one of the most recognized farm-to-table restaurants in Los Angeles, Rustic Canyon and the passion-filled baking that is Huckleberry, to delectable, ice cream perfection at Sweet Rose Creamery and the rustic grains and pizzas at Milo and Olive, busy might sound like an understatement. And all while double-teaming parental
duties for two adorable, young children, Milo and Tallulah.* So how does the duo successfully manage to master it all without sacrificing quality, innovation, and most importantly, taste? The simple answer—teamwork. We let Josh and Zoe interview each other about their upcoming projects, inspirations, visions for their futures, and how they continue to transform Los Angeles’ westside by staying true to the culinary needs of their community.
JOSH: WHAT DO YOU THINK IS DIFFERENT ABOUT THE FOOD
love and lots of generosity. I never felt like a pastry chef. I never wanted
SCENE IN LA SINCE YOU STARTED COOKING HERE?
to be at the end of a meal. That’s an amazing place, but for me, I get
ZOE: I think it is getting better all the time. When I started, there was
tired and ready to sleep at the end of a meal. It never felt like a genuine
just a handful of chef-owned restaurants, and now I think every week
place for me to be. I feel like the morning is where I shine. I will always
you are hearing of an awesome new chef who is opening his own place.
be a baker. The minute I popped Tallulah out, two months later, I was
To me that is the real sign of a food community. LA is actually becoming
back in the kitchen with her on my chest.
*Trust us, they’re cheek-pinching adorable.
a real food place, with real bakeries actually owned by bakers. It used to feel like there was one voice in LA. Now there are hundreds. Our list
JOSH: I KNOW A LOT OF YOUNG BAKERS AND CHEFS REACH OUT
of places we want to go to now is so long!
TO YOU FOR ADVICE. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT PIECE OF ADVICE YOU GIVE THEM?
JOSH: YOU WEAR SO MANY HATS IN OUR RESTAURANTS AND
ZOE: I think that you have to be willing to work really hard and be willing
IN OUR LIVES. PROFESSIONALLY YOU’RE A CHEF AND PASTRY
to make a lot of mistakes. I also think you still have to stay authentic to
CHEF, BUT YOU ALWAYS REFER TO YOURSELF AS A BAKER.
yourself. If I was talking to someone who was just starting out, I guess I
WHY IS THAT?
would say don’t show up with makeup on your face, don’t show up with
ZOE: Because I am a baker. That’s what I like to do. That is what I love.
painted nails, put your head down, and learn everything that someone is
That’s what I feel I can bring to our business. That is where my passion
willing to teach you. You come into a new kitchen and someone asks you,
is. When I went to cooking school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do.
‘Do you know how to make pastry cream?’ You say, ‘I don’t know how to
I didn’t know if I wanted to be a cook, or a baker, or a pastry chef, or
make your pastry cream, please teach me.’ Don’t try to get there before
go into catering. But every year I grow up more and more. It is a lot of
you’re there. I think people come out of cooking school and think they
growing with my family and figuring out what my career means now, but
know what they are talking about. But sucks for them, because they won’t
the thing that is always constant in my life is that I love to bake. I just
learn. Luckily, I always felt like I didn’t know anything. Frankly, sometimes
love it. My mom always baked. To me it is about love and simplicity. It’s
I show up at work and I think someone’s going to figure out that I have no
immediate. I love the idea of starting people’s mornings off right, with
idea what I am talking about! Try to learn, be nice, and don’t yell.
LA
“
įs actuałlỳ becømĭnģ a real fõød pla¢e. Įŧ used ŧō fëel lĭke ŧhere was øne vøĭce ĭn LA. Ŋøw, there are ħundreds. Øur lĭst øf pla¢es ẁe want ŧø gō ŧø nøw įs sø long!
JOSH: WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT OUR KIDS, MILO AND TALLULAH, TO UNDERSTAND OR FEEL ABOUT FOOD? ZOE: I want them to understand that food is for both nourishment and celebration. You know what I mean? There are moments and times for both. I feel like there is a lot of guilt around food —especially around the kind of stuff that I make. That bums me out. I want them to get in touch with their bodies and stomachs so that they can enjoy things without the fear, or weird ideas like I am going to eat these cookies in secret or eat a hundred of them at once. Eat a cookie or a piece of cake and sit down and enjoy it. But also eat your vegetables, not because you must eat your vegetables, but because they are beautiful and grown. We have a garden at home and Milo and I are growing so many things, it's fun. I want them to just have an awareness of food and its nourishment and the celebration associated with it. And, of course, I hope they cook. Shit, I am not always going to always be making Thanksgiving dinner for everyone. ZOE’S TURN TO GRILL JOSH. . . ZOE: JONATHAN GOLD, OF THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, JUST NAMED RUSTIC CANYON AS THE NUMBER SIX RESTAURANT IN LOS ANGELES. ANY BIG REACTION TO THAT? JOSH: Yah, I think it is pretty exciting for us. Because even besides the accolades, which are also fun to hear, It means Rustic is a better restaurant than when it opened. And aside from a few hiccups, it has gotten progressively better every year. That has always been our goal. I think restaurants can easily rest on their laurels, and there are many restaurants that have been around for years and years and just do what they have done forever. One of the reasons that I wanted Rustic to have a changing menu is because, with a lot of love and little pretense, I wanted the chef to evolve. That’s what is so fun about working with Jeremy [Fox]. He is constantly evolving. He is so creative that he could be here for twenty years and the menu would change, his style would change.
He is not married to one particular style. I felt that
the Jonathan Gold piece was just affirmation of what our goals are. Frankly, I want to continue to be better, whether that means moving farther up a list just in our own eyes, or in the eyes of our customers. ZOE: WHERE DO YOU SEE OUR FAMILY OF RESTAURANTS GOING FIVE TO TEN YEARS FROM NOW? JOSH: This is always an ongoing discussion with us. Zoe, you always wanted to have one place and have no headaches. And I always want the headaches and do new and interesting things. You wanted your shop and a community related to that. To me, it is like a big puzzle. One of my goals was to do a bunch of places that complimented each other. For me, it is a creative outlet, and I like bringing a place to fruition. I think a huge chunk of my job is to put the vision and team together and guide it to where it needs to be. ZOE: Yah, before I met you, I had no idea what a restaurateur did. I thought it was some rich asshole that just funded everything. JOSH: Wait, let’s be clear, you didn’t think I was an asshole, just restaurateurs. ZOE: (laughs) I just thought you were cute. But now I understand that the restaurateur is a real puppeteer. You have to be good at finding
“
amazing, talented people and putting them in the right positions. A job
ZOE: WE HAVE ANOTHER TWO PROJECTS LINED UP WITH TWO
one can be very bad at.
AWESOME COUPLES, BRYANT AND KIM NG, TO FEATURE A
JOSH: It is a matter of the right time and place. In five or six years
SOUTHEAST ASIAN STYLE RESTAURANT, AND A WINE BAR/SHOP
I would like to have six to eight chef-partnered restaurants. I want
WITH KATHRYN WEIL AND HER HUSBAND TUG, BOTH IN AN ART
these things to go on so that if I am pulled away, the restaurants
DECO STYLE BUILDING IN SANTA MONICA. WHAT EXCITES YOU
still continue to get better. With all of our places I make an effort
MOST ABOUT THESE UPCOMING PROJECTS?
to bring in not just employees, but people who are going to have an
JOSH: There are so many things that excite me about these
ownership stake—not just financially, but emotionally. At the end of
restaurants. We weren’t even looking to do one project, let alone
the day, it is, of course, about great food. That is why I like to bring in
two projects. First off, the space is amazing. When I walked into this
chef partners as opposed to other partners. That is what is going to
building, I just thought, ‘This is crazy, we have to do something.’ I
ensure the place will be great. Selfishly, we were both raised on the
reached out to Bryant and Kim on a whim because I knew they had
westside and we want places we love. We didn’t want to have to drive
this dream and Spice Table just closed. We decided on this Asian-
across town for amazing pizza. We didn’t feel like there was a great
style brasserie. Eating Bryant’s food on a regular basis was awesome
bakery. When I opened Rustic, I didn’t feel that there was a great
and exciting. Getting to know them has been great. They are amazing
farmer’s market-driven restaurant that wasn’t a formal, fine dining
people and a great couple. They have each other’s backs. And I have
experience. My intuition is that we will create new places for the next
known Katherine for a long time. She started at Rustic just a week after
five or six years and then hone it in.
we opened. She was a rockstar from day one. I tried to get her to be a manager but she never wanted the responsibility. Then she fell in
ZOE: WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE OR FAVORITE DISH I
love with wine and did our wine program. She left for New York for a
HAVE EVER MADE FOR YOU?
while, but she is one of those people that you know will be successful
JOSH: Probably, the most memorable were the croissants the first
in whatever they do. She wanted a project that she could wrap herself
week we first started dating. Your parents were out of town and we had
around that was wine driven, so she is really excited about this. I think
to go see someone at their place and you said, ‘Let’s go to the house,
it’s going to be a special place. Truly a wine shop and truly a wine
and I’ll make you some croissants.’ And you made these ham and
bar—not just a wine shop with a tasting counter or a bar with a few
cheese croissants. And chocolate ones. Little mini ones. And they were
bottles for purchase. It’s a really unique place for LA, and I know they
so good. There are a so many memorable dishes you’ve made, but that
are going to be phenomenal. Her husband, Tug has become fascinated
one really sticks out in my mind.
with wine—they are going to do so great.
ZOE: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST FLOP?
ZOE: IF WE COULD STEP ON A PLANE, TRAIN, OR DRIVE OFF THIS
JOSH: In general, the biggest flops haven’t been dishes you’ve made,
MINUTE FOR A DINNER AT A RESTAURANT ANYWHERE IN THE
but ideas we had for dishes. Well, actually, I wasn’t crazy about the
WORLD, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT US TO GO?
chia chocolate pudding last night. We are trying to be healthy, and I
JOSH: I think I would be driven more by a sense of place than an
appreciated that, but we both have sweet tooths. It was almost good.
actual restaurant. We have been to Spain together, but we have never
ZOE: Except it had the texture of mucus. . .
been up in Basque country over there. So I would love to go eat in San
JOSH: (laughs) Yes, mucus and an aftertaste of something bitter.
Sebastian and drink wine from a little tap.
TEAM TA C O So, it’s the “Teamwork Issue,” and we could have bored you with pairings. But then we thought, “Hey—it’s summer, summer in LA!” and realized it would be sacrilegious to deliver anything other than a taco roundup. A matter of civic pride and a de facto dietary staple, tacos are a cross-genre crowd-pleaser, gutturally satisfying to every Angeleno. It wasn’t easy, but we powered down our user-friendly, fascist laptops a little early and did a little research. Someone had to. EAST LA | TACOS BAJA ENSENADA You either frequent this spot on Whittier Blvd. or have been planning to. Tacos Baja Ensenada has a well-deserved rep for having the town’s best fish and beer-battered shrimp tacos. There’s a consistent line out the door, but worth the wait. WHAT TO GET: Fresh and festive, cop the Fish Taco and top it with “chiles gueros,” seasoned roasted yellow peppers from the bar. Be advised—everything here is seafood, and they’re not stingy with the salsa. And when the festivities of Taco Tuesdays come to a close, don’t be discouraged—Baja Ensenada offers $1 fish tacos on Wednesdays too. | tacosbaja.com MID-CITY | LEO’S TACO TRUCK Leo’s Taco Truck is marvelously stationed on Venice Blvd. and La Brea Ave., adjacent to a 76 gas station—fill up your tank and your stomach in just one stop. The business is in operation seven days a week, from T-shirt time until 3 AM during the week and 4 AM on weekends. WHAT TO GET: Like any self-respecting taco truck, Leo’s is cash only, folks. Priced at just $1, the Al Pastor is their most popular item, kept moist with sliced pineapple and a subtle hint of spice. Leo’s also boasts a full condiment bar, but chances are you probably wont even need it. | twitter.com/LeosTacoTruck DOWNTOWN | MARISCOS JALISCO Meandering around the Fashion District getting you hangry? The big white truck with blue and red letters spelling “Mariscos Jalisco” can be spotted even without your Oliver Peoples Warby Parkers. Just bordering Boyle Heights, Mariscos Jaliscos proudly serves up some of the city’s most savory, hearty, seafood tacos. WHAT TO GET: The taco de camaron is a seafood enthusiast’s dream come true, filled with fried shrimp and spicy sauce, fried again, and topped with avocado and even more red sauce. Oysters and octopus are also on the menu, in a cocktail or on a tostada. Make it a threesome—you can have whatever you liiiiiiike. | twitter.com/MariscosJalisco EAST LA | LOS CINCO PUNTOS Carnitas for the count! This eastside gem is a neighborhood grocer, a local lunch haunt, and a cheap dinner pick-up all rolled into one. You might want to wear stretchy pants; portions here are as big as the taste. Extra points for the hand-made tortillas (we watched). Get there early, these guys close at 6pm. WHAT TO GET: Los Cinco Puntos gives you your choice of cut by the pound. You might also want to grab a burrito, quesadilla, or taco instead to fill their homemade tortillas, and garnish it with pickled nopales and an awesome red salsa. Or, you can live a little. One word: chicharones. | los5puntos.com BOYLE HEIGHTS | GUISADOS At Guisados, it’s all about the meat. Well, it’s also about their grilled vegetables and freshly patted, corn tortillas too. You might discover a thin slice of avocado, a few pickled spicy onions, but that’s pretty much it. These guys let the quality of their ingredients speak for themselves. Parking struggles keeping you away? Fear not—a second location in Echo Park should quell those hunger pangs, and there’s a 3rd under construction in DTLA. WHAT TO GET: Our vote goes to the sampler plate. Made with six mini-tacos, each one is filled with a savory meat or vegetable, surrounded by one of their famous handmade tortillas. | guisados.co ECHO PARK | BELLEVUE STEAKHOUSE La Movidita, affectionately dubbed The Bellevue Steakhouse by locals, almost didn’t make our list. You see, this place is such a gem that we were reluctant to give it away. But alas, your gain is our crux—the woes of journalism be damned. Initially a taco stand on Bellevue Ave., this taco purveyor has since moved to a dimly lit garage farther up the street (ask a local). Get your asada fix Thursday through Sunday evenings, rain or shine. WHAT TO GET: The real claim to fame is the suadero taco. At just $1.25, this taco is meaty, rich, and absolutely delicious. Top it off with one of four (or go big and try ‘em all) of their salsa offerings, or some pickled onions and chopped habaneros.
GET TH E SCOOP ON LA’S LATEST A N D GR EATEST EATS AT LACA N VAS.COM
No
87
RE STAURANT
DINNER THEATER
text REBECA ARANGO photo JOSH TELLES
FIFTY SEVEN, A ONE-OF-A-KIND DINING ROOM EXPERIENCE
Google “chefs are the new rock stars,” and you’ll find there’s
This stunning makeover comes courtesy of Cardiff Giant, the
a whole movement of people who think this could be true. Okay, sure.
same crew of geniuses behind the rotating nightclub DBA. These guys
MTV died with Kurt Cobain, and now most of America’s young adults are
have figured out a nightlife hack: go curatorial, and you’ll never get old.
more likely to be watching Gordon Ramsay than they are to be reading
Accordingly, Fifty Seven is more dining venue than dining concept. It’s
this sentence. As the airtime, headlines, and dollar-signs have it, people
a space built to showcase the most compelling chefs from around the
who make dinner are more popular than people who play guitar.
country, with a new one arriving every season with a new menu. And
If I were a computer twerking the data, I’d arrive at the same
while some say LA is the “dark horse” of the culinary scene, we expect
conclusion. But I feel like today’s “rock star chefs” couldn’t possibly trigger
Fifty Seven will always have first draft pick. Because really, who could
the kind of emotional response that say, Jim Morrison once did. Like,
say no to local produce?
nobody’s going to cry and scream watching David Chang turn on a blender.
Not Chef David Nayfeld! California’s bounty is what lured him
On the other hand, there’s got to be somebody out there with a David Chang
back to his home state after ten years abroad, including racking up three
recipe tattooed on their leg. Or even better, a David Chang face.
Michelin Stars and six James Beard Awards at Eleven Madison Park in
Anyway that’s all speculation. What really validates this rock-
NYC. For his inaugural stint at Fifty Seven, Nayfeld crafted a progressive
star-chef phenomenon is that it’s no longer just the TV personalities who
American menu, featuring deviled eggs with mushrooms tucked inside,
matter. In the restaurant world, chefs have recaptured the spotlight and
sumptuous veal liver with an onion jam spread, and a rustic, stuffed
built an eager live audience that’s ready to follow them from popup to
chicken on a bed of romesco sauce.
food truck and back.
Whatever kind of stars they are, today’s chefs have
Go to a hip new eatery, and you can see into the kitchen. It’s
undoubtedly risen on a tidal shift in attitudes toward food. Every single
a stage! Take a look at the menu, and you’ll immediately find the name
day in America, somebody else watches a documentary and becomes
of the chef. It’s a program! Dining out is no longer what you do before the
aghast to learn the dirty details of our megafarm-to-supermarket system.
show. It is the show. And nowhere is this more true than at the new Arts
They join a movement to dethrone the Wonderbread dynasty, with the
District eatery Fifty Seven.
chefs at the culinary vanguard leading the charge.
“This used the be the old Heinz Loading Dock,” your server will
In LA’s downtown Arts District, this local/artisanal movement
say in his opening shpiel. “That’s why it’s called Fifty Seven.” And look at
takes on an ironic significance as it burrows in the ruins of yesterday’s
her now! All done-up in layers of wood and brick, accessorized with sleek iron
national distribution network. It’s really only fitting that the nexus of the
rails and mod ceramic vessels. If only the old Heinz managers could see how
dining zeitgeist would appear here, at Fifty Seven, where millions of
beautifully their warehouse bay seats twenty on a long leather banquette.
bottles of ketchup once stopped on their way to every fridge in town.
712 S SANTA FE AVENUE LOS ANGELES, CA 90021 FIFTYSEVENLA.COM
No
89 B AR
THAT ‘70s SHOW
text MEGAN LABER photo FRANK ISHMAN
GOOD TIMES AT DAVEY WAYNE’S IS, LIKE, TOTALLY BITCHIN’
What do you do when you own six of LA’s
galore. A long-haired band plays in the “living room,”
most in-demand night calls and are looking to open
a couple gets too close for comfort on a velvet yellow
your seventh? Create a bitchin’ alternative to the off-
couch, and the crowd dances to far-out tunes. Take it
Sunset, Hollywood joints. Brothers Jonnie and Mark
outside to the patio, and you’ll find a trailer converted
Houston, the fanatical, themed bar experts behind
into a bar serving adult-appropriate snow cones and
powerhouse Houston Hospitality, opened their latest
a roller skating duo killing it in metallic hot shorts
installment, Good Times at Davey Wayne’s in April,
with a dance routine to Rose Royce’s “Car Wash.”
alongside such venues like Harvard and Stone, Pour
1611 N EL CENTRO AVENUE LOS ANGELES, CA 90028 GOODTIMESATDAVEYWAYNES.COM
Past
the
good
vibes,
the
bar
is
Vous, and No Vacancy. While you may be familiar with
sentimental to the Houston brothers. When their
their strong abolition-period influence and burlesque
father passed away shortly after taking on the
shows, Good Times goes back to the era of penny
seventh installment, they wanted it to be homage
boards and psych-rock, transporting its patrons to a
to his legacy. “Everything about our dad was the
70s house party that teenage dreams are made of.
‘70s. The music. The lifestyle. You’d find him in
What will you find past the garage and
the garage with a beer, or a mug with whiskey. The
refrigerator door entrance? Up a flight of shag
entire theme revolves around honoring his memory.”
carpet stairs brings you back to your parents (or
And that it does. Get the Old Fashioned in a “#1
grandparents, for the millennial folk) home, furnished
Dad” mug, pick up some backyard BBQ delicacies,
with groovy lamps, wood panel walls, and trinkets
and sit back. You’ll feel right at home.
No
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DRINK
ESTR ELLA DEL MAR 2 oz. ORGANIC MEZCAL 3/4 oz. FRESH PRESSED LIME JUICE 1/2 oz. AGAVE NECTAR 1 TEASPOON ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR 2 CUBES OF SEEDLESS WATERMELON 2 SLICES OF FRESH JALAPEÑO 2 DASHES OF LIME BITTERS 1 PINCH OF SEA SALT In a cocktail shaker, muddle watermelon cubes and Jalapeño slices. Add ice and build the rest of the ingredients in the shaker. Shake well. Double strain (fine strain) into a coupe glass. Garnish with homemade pickled watermelon rind.
A SCARLET SUMMER
text VI NGUYEN photo RACHEL MANY
GRACIAS MADRE—MORE THAN JUST AN INSTAGRAM OPPORTUNITY
We’ve got to admit, when we’re choosing
clock, so obviously we love what we do, and we love
our next watering hole, “vegan Mexican” isn’t exactly
working with one another.” And it shows. As Eisner is
the first descriptor that comes to mind. But Gracias
readying our drink, we see his staff join together in its
Madre, with its succulent-minded aesthetic, is a
preparation, squeezing lime and placing a finishing
delicious destination. We’ve hypothesized that the
garnish atop the drink. It’s not unlike the composition
majik that goes into making something as peculiar as
of a well-done cocktail. A masterful mixologist is one
cashew cheese taste good might also serve the same
who treats his ingredients like teammates, working in
purpose in cocktails.
tandem to coax the best out of each other. A scent
It’s easy to dismiss the WeHo hotspot’s ethos as being hyper neo-hippie. As is trendy nowadays, the
8905 MELROSE AVE, WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA 90069 GRACIASMADREWEHO.COM
here, a flavor there, and the Estrella del Mar arrives at our table flushed scarlet and tasting of summer.
restaurant and bar boasts locally sourced, organic
And what says sunshine and balmy days
produce, and its own website is littered with fodder
more than the taste of juicy watermelon? Combined
for cynics and skeptics (“Welcome to a seat at love’s
with the kick of muddled jalapeno and mezcal’s
table.”—really?) Before we roll our eyes though, how
potent smokiness, the Estrella is tempered with a
about letting the booze do the talking?
little lime and agave nectar. A pinch of salt adds
Beverage Director Jason Eisner tells us, “We make everything by hand, and we work around the
a savory finishing touch, and there you have it— summer in a coupe glass.
LA CANVAS PRESENTS
-
- ALL SUMMER LONG
MUSIC SETS + LIVE PERFORMANCES BY
RESIDENT DJ LADYPILLS & SPECIAL GUESTS EVERY 3RD SATURDAY THROUGH SEPTEMBER
12PM - 6PM T H E R O O S E V E LT H OT E L
TROP I CANA BAR 7000 HOLLYWOOD BLVD. 90028
7-1 9 THE GAR AGE EDITION
8 -1 6
THE THROWBACK EDITION FE ATURING THE MOTLE Y
9 -2 0
THE SUMMER DISCO EDITION FE ATURING BIKINI BIRD AND NEW AMSTERDAM VODK A
SCENE & HEARD
L A CA N VA S PAT T E R N PA R T Y
CA N VA S DA Z E
THE DIVE CLUB
T H E S TA N DA R D , D OW N T OW N
LOCK & KEY
T R O P I CA NA P O O L & BA R , T H E R O O S E V E LT H O T E L
A
fter
strained
personal
relationships, an extra 5lbs,
and lingering coffee brain, we got
O
ur
Sunday
event
series
at
Lock & Key, #CANVASDAZE,
typically gets turnt by 3p. This time,
L
ast month, we kicked off the our 2nd annual Dive Club series
at the iconic Hollywood Roosevelt
our Pattern Issue to print. Check
DJ’s Chuck Inglish, Mike Murda,
Hotel. Featuring our resident DJ
out our last bi-monthly celebration
Immigre, and DJ Tendaji Lathan hit
Ladypills,
at
LA,
the decks for an afternoon of booze,
behind LA’s Funky Sole parties,
where we shared a toast for all our
garlic battered fries, and solid hip-
guest DJs, live performances, and
brilliant features and contributors.
hop. Sunday is starting to become
a pop-up shop by the quirky and
Our favorite handsome boy band,
our favorite day of the week.
retro-inspired label
the
Standard
Downtown
Beach Party scored an evening of Ping-Pong at SPiN, night swimming,
MISSED OUT?
the
epic
soundsmiths
Harlyn, our
Dive Club is off to a fierce start. Head over to LACANVAS.com for
and digital projections. Head to our
Make sure you’re signed up for the LA
more information on our upcoming
Facebook page to see what everyone
CANVAS Weekly on LACANVAS.com
July and August events.
looked like with a flash.
to get in on our upcoming festivities.
FACEBOOK.COM/LACANVASMAG photos RON PRE MARK WALES CHRIS CARTER
17
CONCERT YUNA @ SANTA MONICA PIER
16
CONCERT SUPERHUMANOIDS @ THE SATELLITE
15
FOOD DOWNTOWN FARMER’S MARKET @ GRAND PARK
CONCERT CAYUCAS + PAPA @ SANTA MONICA PIER
24
CONCERT FUZZ @ THE TROUBADOUR
31
23
CONCERT OK GO @ THE TROUBADOUR
30
22
29
CONCERT CROWD THEORY @ PERSHING SQUARE
CONCERT MYKKI BLANCO @ LOS GLOBOS
CONCERT THE HOLD STEADY @ EL REY THEATRE
FESTIVAL FIGAT7TH DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL @ FIGAT7TH
18
CONCERT PEOPLE UNDER THE STAIRS @ THE TROUBADOUR
18
MOVIE AMERICAN PSYCHO @ AUTRY NATIONAL CENTER
19
FESTIVAL USED BOOK SALE @ LOS ANGELES CENTRAL LIBRARY
19
27
FILM ZOMBIES FROM THE BEYOND @ LEX THEATRE
20
28
BAR BRAIN PARTY TRIVIA NIGHT @ ALEX’S BAR
21
27
ART OPENING FRANCESCO VEZZOLI @ MOCA
26
25
26
FILM REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE @ PEARL’S LIQUOR BAR
FESTIVAL SUMMER FEST 2014 @ VENICE BEACH
FILM THE WOLF OF WALL STREET @ EXPOSITION PARK
ART OPENING VITA E MORTE @ SUBLIMINAL PROJECTS
ART OPENING ANDY WARHOL @ REVOLVER GALLERY
T
W
TH 4
JULY F 5
S 6
S
7
M
PARTY SPIN STANDARD W/ DJ SHORT SHORTS @ THE STANDARD DOWNTOWN
3
PARTY #ICECREAMSUNDAYS @ LOCK & KEY
2
FILM JAWS @ AUTRY NATIONAL CENTER
1
CONCERT HI HO SILVER OH @ THE BOOTLEG
FESTIVAL 4TH OF JULY BLOCK PARTY @ GRAND PARK
PARTY STONES THROW PICNIC @ CALIFORNIA PLAZA
PARTY NIGHT SWIM @ SKYBAR
7
FOOD ALL DAY HAPPY HOUR @ THREE OF CLUBS
14
5
CONCERT PHOX @ THE ECHO
13
CONCERT NOT IN THE FACE @ VIPER ROOM
14
FOOD DINE LA RESTAURANT WEEK @ LOS ANGELES
12 FESTIVAL GARAGISTE @ UNION STATION
12 FILM BRIDESMAIDS @ EXPOSITION PARK
CONCERT SUNDAY SESSIONS @ GRAND PARK
11
FESTIVAL BOLLYWOOD @ THE MUSIC CENTER PLAZA
10
PARTY KCRW’S SUMMER NIGHTS @ HAMMER MUSEUM
9
CONCERT TO ELLA WITH LOVE @ HOLLYWOOD BOWL
8
ART OPENING SUMMER SESSIONS @ THE GRAMMY MUSEUM
17 CONCERT SMOOTH SUMMER JAZZ @ HOLLYWOOD BOWL
16
FESTIVAL ECHO PARK RISING @ ECHO PARK
17
15 15
18
19
PARTY THE ECHO & DUB CLUB PRESENT: DUB CLUB @ ECHOPLEX
20
FESTIVAL LOS ANGELES FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL 2014 @ LA
21
FOOD AVOCADO FEST @ ANGEL CITY BREWERY
28
CONCERT BEST COAST @ EL REY
FILM BACK TO THE FUTURE @ GLENDALE CENTRAL PARK
25
CONCERT JOHN LEGEND @ GREEK THEATRE
FESTIVAL 626 NIGHT MARKET @ SANTA ANITA RACE TRACK
24
27
23
26
22
FOOD LUNCH A LA PARK @ GRAND PARK
CONCERT LA COUNTY FAIR @ FAIRPLEX
CONCERT TY SEGALL @ THE ECHO
CONCERT YOUNGBLOOD HAWKE @ GREEK THEATRE
FOR MORE EVENTS IN REAL TIME, VISIT LACANVAS.COM
PARTY MUSTACHE MONDAYS @ LA CITA
FILM PRETTY WOMAN @ PEARL’S LIQUOR BAR
FILMOPENING ART PRETTY WOMANCLOTHS OF AFRICAN-PRINT @ PEARL’S LIQUOR BAR GHANA @ FOWLER MUSEUM
PARTY THE TIMES VINYL NIGHT @ ACE HOTEL DOWNTOWN LA
FESTIVAL FYF FEST @ LA SPORTS ARENA
31
28
PARTY SAE TECH EXPO @ SAE
30
FILM HITCHCOCK! @ HOLLYWOOD BOWL
24
29
FILM DJANGO UNCHAINED @ AUTRY NATIONAL PARK
22
CONCERT ICONA POP @ THE FONDA THEATRE
F
S
S
AUGUST M
T
W
TH
7
5
6
4
CONCERT HAIM @ THE WILTERN
3
PARTY SOLIDISCO + STEEL LORD @ KING KING
14
2
ART OPENING EZRA JACK KEATS @ SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER
13
1
PARTY SOUL SESSIONS @ GRAND STAR JAZZ CLUB
12
PARTY ACE JAM HOSTED BY MOCKY @ ACE HOTEL DOWNTOWN LA
CONCERT LA SANTA CECILIA @ SANTA MONICA PIER
CONCERT 90S NIGHT OUT @ GREEK THEATER
CONCERT TOMAS BARFOD @ THE BOOTLEG
11
CONCERT JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE @ STAPLES CENTER
FOOD BIG BITE BACON FEST @ THE QUEEN MARY
MOVIE THE GOONIES @ GLENDALE CENTRAL PARK
10
CONCERT THE KOOKS @ THE ROXY
5
CONCERT ARCADE FIRE @ THE FORUM
9 FOOD LA CRAFT BEER CRAWL @ DTLA
CONCERT FLUME @ CLUB NOKIA
CONCERT PAUL MCCARTNEY @ DODGERS STADIUM
2
8
FOOD BARNSDALL FRIDAY NIGHT WINE TASTING @ BARNSDALL ART PARK
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10 8
L AST LO O K
DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE? A CONVERSATION WITH RYAN SCHUDE
With heavy-hitting clients like AT&T, McDonald’s, and WESC
Then we developed specific characters for each subject and planned
under his belt, and an editorial resume that includes Men’s Journal,
accordingly for their props and wardrobe. Once we got there, the
Time Magazine, and Esquire, former skate-turned-refined-narrative
location remained, but our entire angle flip-flopped for the better.
photographer, Ryan Schude has always had a knack for capturing
Things always change the day of the shoot no matter how much you
a moment. Whether his subject is singular, or he’s wrangling a cast
plan, so you definitely need to be flexible and think quickly without
of 35, the photographer’s images animate off the page, emanating
worrying too much about how it was supposed to go. As long as the
a kinetic energy so rich in both detail and open-ended irreverence
end result is good, it doesn’t matter what you originally thought you
that no two viewers will see the same thing. Ryan’s often subtle and
were going to do.
occasionally overt satire has become the trademark throughout the scope of his work, reconciling the chasm between commercial and
SO, YOU’RE REALLY DETAILED—ARE YOU A VIRGO?
artistic. Schude is both at once—the it-getter’s it-getter. We caught
I don’t know much about astrology, so I just looked up the Wiki
up with Ryan to try and figure him out.
for Pisces and it said this: “Although there is no scientific basis for characterizing someone’s personality by date of birth, Western
WE PRESUME THE BEST PART ABOUT TRANSITIONING
superstitious belief is that Pisceans are reasonable, artistic, and
FROM SKATE PHOTOGRAPHY TO A REFINED NARRATIVE
quiet.” I suppose I can buy that for the most part, but some might
IS NOT BEING YELLED AT. TRUE OR FALSE?
disagree with the quiet bit.
Yeah, for sure. Being yelled at is the pits. There is something unmatched about being young and defying authority, but eventually
BEST SPOT TO PEOPLE WATCH IN LA?
you evolve into a different human and your perspective shifts. I do
Union Station has the best backdrop for this. Also, as overwhelmingly
miss it like hell though.
crowded, obnoxious, and expectedly redundant as the Venice boardwalk can be, I’m certainly entertained for at least an hour before
WHAT’S THE PRE-PRODUCTION LIKE FOR ONE OF YOUR
questioning why I would ever return.
COMMERCIAL IMAGES WITH A LARGER CAST? It starts either with a concept, or a location, and then they become the
THE COMMON THREAD THROUGHOUT YOUR WORK SEEMS
chief factors in developing the visual story that unfolds around them.
TO BE HUMOR. TELL US A JOKE.
In the Phoot Camp 2012 image I made with Lauren Randolph, we
I’m glad that comes across in the photos, but I am awful with
knew we were going to make a group photo of 35 people at a creative
remembering jokes. Here’s about the only one I got: A bear walked into
retreat in upstate New York. We looked at photos of the location and
a bar and said to the bartender, “I’ll have a pint of beer and a..............
sketched out a rough idea of our angle and placement of each person.
packet of peanuts.” The bartender says, “Why the big paws?”
RYANSCHUDE.COM
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