Congratulations to Jason Feather for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local of the month. I met up with Jason to congratulate him on winning and also to get the dirt on what he has going on.

1. How would you describe your art?

My work reconciles street art with clean-lined craftsmanship by using a mix of styles, mediums, and techniques.

2. What inspires you?

I rarely draw my material from a single source. My inspiration comes from a multitude of fields, from street art and graphic
design, to modern architecture, technology, music, and magazines and sometimes, my good friend, Jameson.

3. Where can people find your art? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are
working on?

I try to get involved with as many projects as I can around San Diego. Through Art Kills Artists, I am able to expose my work, as well as the work of other artists, in locations such as gallery aka, located inside Disconnected Salon, True North Tavern, U31, The Mission, etc. I am also the resident painter at Voyeur, and I¹ve designed a number of storefronts around town. For upcoming shows, visit Jfeather.com or ArtKillsArtists.com.

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?

I like Commune¹s alternative approach to the fight against big tobacco. Incorporating a combination of music and art allows for an event that is not only creative, but also interactive and informative.

5. Why do you think it¹s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?
I think it’s important to stand behind anything you believe in.

Check out Jason’s limited edition Commune poster design taking a stand against big tobacco here.

For More on Jason Feather check out Jfeather.com and ArtKillsArtists.com.

If you would like to be part of Commune Wednesdays and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at jointhecommune@gmail.com or www.jointhecommune.com.

Congratulations to Dion Terry for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local of the month! I met up with Dion to congratulate him on winning and also to get the dirt on what he has going on.

1. How would you describe your art?

My art borders random aspects of what is created during the daily consciousness of human thought that exist when people stare at something for too long. Meaning, when I’m finished with a painting I’m already thinking of projects 2 or 3 series ahead of what I’ve accomplished. As for now, my art consists of giving the bird subject a presence of stature, a simple personality that completes the painting.  But the origin of my undernourished relentlessness to paint was of the advice from two well-established artists named Frank Gonzales from NYC, and Richard Salcido who is from San Diego. They simply told me to just paint birds.

2. What inspires you?

Honestly, my girlfriend Tassia. She gives me ideas and I figure out how I can spin her inspiration and we toss ideas back and forth. She’s my live in muse.

3. Where can people find your art? Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on?
Yeah, people can find my art hanging at Guru Tattoo in Pacific Beach and at Feelit Boutique in downtown San Diego.  I also attend the Hillcrest farmer’s market and the OB farmer’s market from time to time. As for upcoming shows, I have ideas, but you might find me on the streets or Frankfurt and Amsterdam in the next month slinging shit.

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?
I love how Commune gets so many creative people together to show off their talents. San Diego, as a community lags in the art department. San Diego is sleepy. Who in our demographic likes traditional watercolors and boring art school trained oil paintings of landscapes? The Commune keeps it fresh like Kool N the Gang.

Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?
If you’ve been under an orca-sized hooker for the last decade somewhere near Borrego Springs, and were recently freed from her clutches during the last earthquake… then you have some serious emendations of thought awaiting you. The truth of what exist when it comes to the pandering from tobacco companies is unreal. Tobacco corporations are evil. Don’t smoke.

For More on Dion Terry check out his myspace.

Congrats again to Dion Terry and thanks to everyone who voted.

If you would like to be part of Commune Wednesdays and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact us at jointhecommune@gmail.com

Ashley and I first came across Monty’s art when we stopped by, what used to be MESH in North Park. Monty was Commune’s featured artist back in March ’09 and if you have ever seen one of his pieces, you understand why we were so excited when he agreed to be a part of Commune. Monty’s art is colorful, bright, expressive and unquestionably Monty Montgomery. I met up with Monty to congratulate him and see what he has going on.

1. What inspires your art? Where do you draw inspiration?

From the moment I wake up in the morning to the moment I hit the hay every night, everything I take in from people inspires my art! I could be standing in line at the market or sitting under a tree in the park and no matter what mood surrounds me, I am creating my next painting or design with that which I am handed or hear. I am strongly inspired with messages from peoples conversations, or words that might hit me in the moment on a Billboard, a newsstand, someone having an awesome day or that really bad moment we all hate to go through. I am inspired by raw emotion and all of the paths that it might carry a person down. I am open and looking for that everyday and when I feel a dose of it in a situation I take it, I use it, I create from it!

2. Has your inspiration changed at all from moving from VA to CA?

My Inspiration hasn’t really changed since I made the move to San Diego, but the order in which I take these moments in has! It’s pretty cool in the way that at home in VA the weather changes everyday and that controls where I might be and what I might be hearing, seeing, feeling. If it were cold and rainy I would be picking up different vibes at a coffee shop versus being in sunny San Diego, hiking around peeps outside all pumped and happy because of being here enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Since moving, I have noticed in my work patterns that many more moments are focused in on understanding my thoughts and trying to put them on canvas in a way to drive people in a positive direction while still being honest about the original emotion, no matter what that might be.
3. Where can people find your art?  Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on?

A few places people can roll in and check things out.  My websites are http://www.montymontgomeryart.com and http://www.cillidesigns.com. The Cilli Original Designs site is where it all started about 11 years ago when I launched the logo and ideas for my Art.  Since being here in San Diego, I launched the new Monty Montgomery Art website which is very simple and to the point with my career as a painter/poet.  I have a show set for Tuesday, April 6th 2010 at Basic in the East Village and peeps can check out 4 paintings hanging in Sportie L.A.(sneaker boutique) on  5th ave. in the Gaslamp. I’m pumped as well about an upcoming exhibit in Philly PA. at “G” Gallery that my boy “G Love & Special Sauce “ has put together for me, the info on that Exhibit will come to life soon and hit the websites!

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?

Commune is “SOLID”. I was super stoked to be in contact with Jenny almost a year ago now.  I had just moved to the San Diego area and from the beginning of our first conversation I was totally into everything that COMMUNE and the individuals involved within the group were all about. Being able to believe in a goal to bring individuals to a better, healthier way of living and also bring so many cool people together with all different types of ART and energy is awesome.  COMMUNE stands out in so many ways as a very talented, cool group of Artists and individuals that look towards positive ways to bring everyone to a stronger way of living.

5. Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?

It’s important to make a stand against these corporations because if we don’t through groups like COMMUNE, no one will! Every single person against this movement of massive corporations helps to bring individuals away from harming their body with Tobacco! Art Exhibits, Concerts, Etc. Getting people involved is what it’s all about. COMMUNE is making it Happen!!!

For More on Monty check out the links below:

Monty Montgomery Art
Website: http://www.montymontgomeryart.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/montymontgomeryart
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/montymontgomery
Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/montyart

Cilli Original Designs
Website: http://www.cillidesigns.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/cillidesigns
E-mail: monty@cillidesigns.com

Congrats again to Monty and thanks to everyone who voted!

If you would like to be part of Commune Wednesdays and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact Jenny at jointhecommune@gmail.com

With the holiday spirit ringing in the air, beer-belly Santa’s running rampant through malls and store entrances, rainy freeways, and ridiculous traffic with even more ridiculous drivers; now is the perfect time to stay close home and enjoy some of your favorite local artists.

Despite the despicable economy most everyone still feels the pinch to give back, if you are one of those kind-hearted souls check out our friends Mimi and Red at one of our fav spots El Dorado. Mimi and a sleuth of other local companies will be hosting the Holiday Toy Drive from 9p-12a at the East Village hang out. There’s no cover, just bring in an unwrapped toy of your choice (Super Soakers are a timeless pick) or $10 that will go towards buying new toys. When you buy for someone else, despite how empty your bank account is your heart will be full, especially with that corny metaphor.

All that giving really leaves my soul yearning for some inspiration… of the visual sense. Stop by 3795 30^th for Wish You Were Beer with art by Brian Clinebell and Taylor Johnson, plus you never what local superstars might meander in. This should definitely be a stop on your Saturday night. With monsoon weather, do something different and check this shenanigan out.

Now I’m a big fan of the 4 day weekend, which starts on Thursday, but since we are all recovered from yesterday and so far you’re weekend is packed, Sunday needs to be perfect ending to this fall wonderland. “Coffee, tea, wine, beer, food, and fun” is on the agenda for this December 13^th. Kensington Café is showcasing the Holiday Trunk Show. Trunks open at 4pm, live music from 6-8pm. All the must have swag by your favorite local artists will be in shining presentation. Don’t miss this early night shindig.

Well folks all I can say about the weekend is that it should be wet ‘n wild, and because dating is hard enough in this city, you’ll find me with mistletoe and Pabst hobbing knobbing through my town, hitting up all these fly events. Stay dry friends;)

This Saturday (10/10)  944 will be celebrating it’s October Art and Culture Issue Release Party at Disconnected Salon in North Park.  The night will featured commissioned pieces by various local artists using 944 Magazine for their primary inspiration for all of the pieces.  The event is invite only and  based on a, now closed guest list, but if you’re feeling lucky contact MarieElena@944.com for further guestlist consideration. The evening will include DJ sets, appetizers, cocktails provided by Patron & Ultimat Vodka, and Free hair styling (STYLING FROM: 6-7pm Call 619-298-3830 for appointment).

THE NIGHT WILL INCLUDE PIECES BY:
Adrian Parra
Chris Wellhausen
Christy Zaragoza
Crystal Powell
Eric Wixon
Exist 1981
Jason Gould
Jennifer Miller
jfeather
Leslie Tiano
Martha Martin
Michael Carini
Mickey Ford
Monica Robles
Nicholas McPherson
Sam Frazier
Tocayo

You don’t want to miss this event, but if  you weren’t able to get on the guestlist in time, the after party will be at True North. You won’t catch me there though, I’ll be at El Dorado for  DJ Groundfloor and Erick Diaz or at Bluefoot for DJ J Peso. So support local and make it out tomorrow night!

This Saturday. October 3^rd from 1:00 PM- 5: 00PM, North Park will host its first-ever Taste of North Park.  More than 30 restaurants and 20 galleries and boutiques will participate in this tantalizing event. The event is the ideal blend of delicious cuisines prepared by top chefs around the neighborhood mixed with the perfect variety of microbrews and flavorful wines.  Tickets to the event are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Proceeds will benefit the North Park Mainstreet.  Don’t miss this opportunity to sample the best in local North Park dining.

Participants Include:

Restaurants & Bars

Apertivo Italian Tapas & Wine Bar

Bar Pink

Bluefoot Bar & Lounge

Caffé Calabria

*Caffé Carpe Diem

California’s Mexican Food

*Cardamom Café & Bakery

Claire de Lune Coffee Lounge

Eddie’s Philadelphia Steaks

El Comal Antojitos Mexicanos

Heaven Sent Desserts

Junz Teryiaki & BBQ

Mosaic Wine Bar

North Park Panini Place (NP3)

North Park Sushi

Paesano’s Fine Italian Food

Philly Grill

Ranchos Mexican & Vegetarian Cuisine

Ritual Tavern

Sea Rocket Bistro

Splash Wine Bar

The Office Bar, Inc.

Toronado San Diego

True North Tavern

U-31 Bar & Lounge

Uptown Fish Market and Grill

Urban Solace Restaurant

West Coast Tavern

Zensei Sushi

Yog-Art

Galleries, Boutiques, and Salons

A7D Graphic Design & Printing

Cirello Gallery

Disconnected Salon

Flip A Salon

Gorgeous Salon & Gallery

*Kate Ross Boutique

Material

Mesh Boutique

Mimi & Red Boutique

obr architecture

Overload Skate Shop

Pigment

Planet Rooth Studios Gallery

Point of Departure Architecture

Ray Street Custom Framing / Sharp Studio Gallery

San Diego Art Department

Soul Ryde, Inc.

Section 2820 Hair Studio

Taylor Studio/ D’Agostino Fine Art

The Costume Shop

Vintage Religion

To Purchase Tickets go to http://tastenorthpark.com

Adam Jafry is no stranger to Commune. You may have seen his limited Edition Commune Posters around the neighborhood, or maybe even his Commune tees scattered among pretty faces in the scene, but if you haven’t, Adam Jafry is definitely a talent to be seen.   I met up with Adam to get the dirt on what’s going on with him and what inspired him to do this piece for Commune.

1. Where are you from?

The Island in the Hills

2. How long have you been creating art?

I just started.

3. What was the inspiration behind your Commune piece?

Big tobacco talks about their products being pleasurable and fun but really people just end up dead. Maybe this is what their ads should look like.

4. What’s your favorite part of Commune?

Hipster Chicks, DJ’s and fixed gear bicycles.

5. Anything else super awesome about you that people should know?

I’ve killed a raft once but I wont say why. Stabbed it to death.

As you can tell Adam is quite the character. If you haven’t had a chance to see if work head to the Whistlestop where he will be showing art for the month of August.

Brian Clinebell is a local San Diego artist originally from the small town of Abingdon, Virginia. If you’ve ever seen Brian around the neighborhood, you’ve probably noticed his contagious smile.

Brian is a super talented artist that dabbles in a little bit of everything. You may recognize some of his mixed media pieces from art shows around town (Commune June ’08), seen his art on a t-shirt or maybe even more recently seen him as the front man for the Kabbs (www.myspace.com/thekabbs).

Like Commune, Brian joins in the fight against Big Tobacco and took part in Commune’s quit group to face his personal addiction with smoking head on.  For seven weeks Brian participated in the weekly group that helped him reduce his smoking dramatically.

If you haven’t had a chance to see Brian’s art in person head to the Soda Bar where he will be showing art for the month of July. You can also catch the Kabbs at the Ken club July 16^th for JJ Rad Fest.

Check out Brian’s art www.brianclinebell.com.