WE'RE SUPPORTING

Our friends over at Paper Tiger have just released their first print of the new year, and we’re lovin’ it. It’s called a Touch of Class and is the work of artist, Nathan Ota, who had a recent solo show at Hollywood’s La Luz de Jesus gallery. Ota, whose earliest influences were Frank Frazetta calendars and Vampirella comics, primarily creates his work using acrylics and wood panel.

WE'RE THINKING

Project Squadt’s latest skull-masked collectible figure is already sold out, but it’s worth taking a look at their site to be ready when they unveil the next one. I’m not much of a toy-freak, but these are still pretty nifty.

Andrew Fagan, lead singer of The Mockers, the poppiest New Zealand band of the 80s, came around to my place once when I was an impressionable 10-year old with stars in my eyes and a head full of shiny, shiny melodies. Read more

WE'RE TRAVELLING TO

The Suit Up exhibition comprises a number of artworks from various Australian street, comic, and illustration artists, each of whom has applied their unique style to that ubiquitous — yet, rarely tapped — canvas, the playing card. The designs have been produced as giclee prints, signed and numbered by the artists, and are limited to 10 prints of each design. Real-size decks of cards have also been produced for sale. The Suit Up crew is a close-knit group of predominantly Melbourne-based artists who are passionate about Australia’s ‘low-brow’ art scene, which is more collaborative and less ego-driven than much of the the high-brow art world. The exhibition runs between February 13 and 25.

WE'RE READING

If ever there was an opinion needed on the current Hip Hop scene, this is the one everyone should look to. More than likely, this homie is going to diss, if not one, then all of your favorite rappers and probably offend you. But I dare someone to say he is not speaking the truth. Plus, whose voice better to hear it in than that of Ghostface, Na’mean? I can read this blog for hours with a smile on my face.

WE'RE LISTENING TO

Grinning Cat is a beautiful electronic album from prodigious Japanese producer, Susumu Yokota. It borrows liberally from the melodic melancholy of classical music and features subtle drum loops throughout. We interviewed him about the artwork that he creates for each release. Read more

WE'RE WEARING

Love your Converse All Stars? Well, designer Daryl Van Wouw has taken his obsession to the next level, creating an entire pant and shoe configuration. Yes, it’s a very interesting design. But practical? That depends entirely on the whims of the individual.