The Tom Coston Show

Thank you to everyone who came out to the 21st Pasadena Chalk Festival this past weekend. It was a huge success! We had 200 chalk murals created by over 500 artists. Photos are being posted on the Pasadena Chalk Festival Facebook Page, so be sure to check it out!

In case you missed the awards ceremony Sunday evening, the winners are as follows:

1st Place, People’s Choice, and DDR Artist-in-Residence Tom’s Choice:
“Jean-Michel Basquiat” by Moe Notsu

2nd Place: “Kissing Couple” by Arlou Somo

3rd Place: “El Mexico Dorado” by Daniel Ramirez

Most Inspirational: “Giving the Light” by Shuji Nishimura

Most Humorous: “Totzilla” by Mike Sund

Best 3D Effect: “Journey to the West” by William Zin

Best of Silent Auction: “Salvador Dali” by Shuji Nishimura

Best Use of Color: “California Fresh” by Bianca Ornelas

Best in Animation Alley: “Sweet Dreams Alice” by Penny Roberts

Best Technique: “Boomer” by Robin Torres

Best Rendition of a Masterpiece: “Van Gogh Self Portrait” by Kathleen Figueroa-Russell

Best Original Design: “Gnosis” by Ronny Johnson

On The Way to MOCA, Most Contemporary: By Jacqueline Ramos

Best in Chalk of Fame: “The Shining” by Neleigh Olson

Join Us June 15th and 16th, 10am-7pm

Yes, it’s Father’s Day Weekend at Paseo Colorado! Come see more than 500 artists from all over southern California create 200 murals in pastel chalk, using the pavement as their canvas. 

Murals range in subject matter from the classical to whimsical, including renditions of masterpieces, abstract, portraiture, movie images, 3D effects, animation, et al! An Art Gallery & Silent Auction showcasing 200 original paintings created by the chalk artists makes great affordable art, with all proceeds benefitting the arts and learning programs of Light Bringer Project.

Young children can enjoy making art and having their face painted in Kid’s Chalkland. And you can enjoy Classic Cars showcased along Green Street on Father’s Day Sunday. Have tacos and a chilled drink in the El Cholo Cantina providing al fresco seating, with a portion of proceeds benefitting Light Bringer Project. Paseo Colorado offers a great selection of restaurants, cafes, unique retail shops, the ArcLight Movie Theater, and more!!

Where: Paseo Colorado, 280 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91101. Murals also extend across Green Street onto the Convention Center concourse.

Cost: FREE! Bring the Family 

Parking: Parking is available at many locations near the festival. Paseo Colorado recommends parking in one of the following garages:  Marengo Parking Structure located on the corner of Marengo Avenue and Green Street; or the Los Robles Parking Structure located on the corner of Los Robles Avenue and Greet Street.  There is also subterranean parking below the Paseo Colorado with entrances on Colorado Boulevard and on Green Street. Parking is free for 90 minutes and the rates are $1.50 per half hour, with a daily maximum of $6.00 with validation.

MEDIA: To request press releases and images, please contact: 

M. Craig & Associates
310.899.2900
dwilson@mcraigassociates.com

Mural by Gus Moran and family

Mural by Moe Natsu

Mural by Chi Nguyen

Mural by Melissa Slight

Mural by Simon Estrada

Viewers watch artist Jon Tolentino

Photos by Brian Biery

Faun Fables – Faun Fables is an American band from Oakland, California, and are on the Drag City label. Leader Dawn McCarthy has intermittently written and performed with Will Oldham (Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy).
Watch “A Table Forgotten”

Matt Kivel – Matt Kivel is a Los Angeles-based musician. His full-length album, recorded with Paul Oldham (Palace Music, Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy) and Mark Nieto, will be released later this year.
Listen to “Tetro”

Lucky Eyes – Lucky Eyes was formed by Paul Oldham and Amber Luna originally from Louisville, KY now based in Los Angeles. The band, filled out by guitarist Larry Schemel (Midnight Movies) and drummer Patty Schemel (Hole), just completed a recording an EP with producer Neil Hagerty (Royal Trux, Howling Hex) in March 2013.
Listen to “The Haunted”

The New LA Folk Festival + LA Record present:

Bloody Death Skull
Website  Audio: Girls Like You  Audio: Will Ya Willyam
OH MY GOSH record release show!
The new BDS album “OH MY GOSH” is a golden block of wood you can take home and hold in your hand while listening to the new songs. Each luminous piece comes with a magical code you stick in the computer to retrieve the music.

9p/$5/all ages

This country princess turned rockabilly queen dated Elvis, penned some of the greatest female fronted songs of the 1950s, trademarked a signature growl, and finally in her 70s gained entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Don’t miss the chance to spend an evening in the desert with music legend Wanda Jackson.

Buy tickets
Visit the Facebook event

Pappy & Harriet’s
53688 Pioneertown Rd, Pioneertown, California

Oh snap, what’s that strange alluring sound calling like a house made of candy in the woods? Is it a bird, a plane, a string bean with legs? It’s Amanda Jo Williams with a new album!

Amanda Jo Williams will unfurl her latest musical confessions surrounded by friends and aliens at El Cid on May 24.

The new album, “You’re The Father Of My Songs”, is being released by Neurotic Yell Records on May 21. Have a listen to “2000 Hell”.

Tickets: $10 at the door
Location: El Cid 4212 W Sunset Blvd., 90029

***DUE TO UNFORESEEN SAFETY PERMIT ISSUES WITH ZORTHIAN RANCH, WE’VE HAD TO CANCEL TONALISM. ALL ADVANCE TICKET PURCHASES WILL BE REFUNDED VIA FLAVORUS. STAY TUNED FOR A RESCHEDULING OF THIS EVENT AT A LATER DATE.***

The New LA Folk Fest & dublab present…

TONALISM
an all night ambient music happening
at Zorthian Ranch
6pm-6am

LIVE PERFORMANCES BY::

Date Palms (Thrill Jockey)
http://thrilljockey.com/thrill/Date-Palms

Secret Circuit (RVNG Intl.)
http://rvng.bandcamp.com/album/tactile-galactics-4

Sean McCann
http://www.recitalprogram.com/seanmccann

Diva & Matthewdavid
http://divaprojections.blogspot.com/
https://soundcloud.com/matthewdavid

Lucky Dragons
http://luckydragons.org/

San Gabriel
http://sangabrielselecta.tumblr.com/

Sun Araw & M. Geddes Gengras
http://sunaraw.com/
http://mgeddesgengras1.bandcamp.com/

Mirror To Mirror

DJ SETS BY:

DJ Lady C & DJ Egroeg (Complicated Dance Steps)
http://www.complicateddancesteps.com/

Douglas McGowan (Yoga / Ethereal Visions)
http://www.yogarecords.com/

Carlos Nino
http://dublab.com/carlos-nino

Turquoise Wisdom
http://dublab.com/turquoise-wisdom

Hoseh
http://dublab.com/hoseh

Katie Byron
http://dublab.com/katie-byron

Kozy
http://dublab.com/labrat/labrat-kozy-kitchens/

Goethe-Institut Los Angeles presenting 4 hours of German ambient music, mixed by: Frosty, Ale (Pharaohs), Jake Viator and Suzanne Kraft
http://goethe.de/losangeles

Slayron
http://dublab.com/labrat/labrat-slayron

Daiana Feuer
http://lafolkfest.com/

Nanny Cantaloupe
http://dublab.com/labrat/labrat-cantaloupe

Victoria O’Hanlon (Poo-Bah Records)
http://www.poobah.com/

White Rainbow
http://whiterainbowpizza.bandcamp.com/

Lyonnais
https://www.facebook.com/lyonnaisband

Jake Jenkins
http://dublab.com/jake-jenkins-friendly-futures-mix-01-09-11

VISUALS BY:
Alex Pelly
https://vimeo.com/alexpelly

John Wyatt (Cinespia)
http://cinespia.org/

INSTALLATIONS BY:
Katie Byron
http://www.katiebyron.com/

Dr. Chocolate
http://www.muzicprizm.com/

LIVE SCREEN PRINTING:
HIT+RUN
http://thehitandrun.com/

YUMMY FOOD FOR SALE:
Mandoline Grill
http://www.mandolinegrill.com/

About Zorthian Ranch:
At the foot of the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains in Altadena sits the one and only Zorthian Ranch, a legendary party place built by hand out of spare parts by Jirayr Zorthian. This junkyard oasis seems like the type of place you stumble into lost in a ghost town, but the Ranch leads a peaceful weird existence with its pet llamas and chickens just 15 miles from downtown Los Angeles on a mountainside surrounded by trees. Up until Jirayr’s death in 2004, the ranch served as a haven of bohemian life and a backdrop for his artistic expression—salvaged wood, bed springs, rusted vehicles, broken concrete, movie set pieces, beer bottles, old props, more than one kitchen sink, and other junk he could recycle into various sculptures and architecture. By hosting events at this special place over the last few years, The New L.A. Folk Fest has revived the spirits that once danced around these grounds in red long underwear.

About Tonalism:
Tonalism is a dusk-to-dawn event inspired by La Monte Young’s “Dream House” as well as the work of musicians and composers such as Terry Riley, Yoko Ono and John Cage. Tonalism combines harmonious textures in a surround sound system with visual elements to create an atmosphere where the audience is encouraged to bring pillows, cushions and sleeping bags to lay down, listen and watch for an extended period of time. DJs, live musicians and video artists play and perform throughout the night; starting at sunset and ending at sunrise. Complimentary tea and water are provided to all who attend.

Open wide to a new world. Expansive radiance awaits in this environment of elevation. We have entered a glowing landscape of transformative tones. The horizon line fades and every edge softens. Natural laws dissolve as we float on pure sound particles. Vibration has become the new vision and your being beams brightly, blurring into harmonic hum with the universe. “You” and “I” are no longer. This is all together. Transformation complete.

THE RULES…..

SAFETY
We provide the fun atmosphere. Attendees are responsible for their own safety and well-being at the ranch.

WHAT TO BRING
Bring cash. There is no ATM.
Bring flashlights and wear comfortable shoes. All guests must walk up a dirt hill from the parking area to the ranch. (10 minutes uphill, it’s .2 of a mile)
Some areas of the ranch are paved but be prepared to walk on dirt, grass, and uneven steps.
Bring a bathingsuit & towel if you plan to get in the pool. Bring a blanket or sleeping bag to lounge on during performances. No tents.
Guests can bring picnic baskets, food, and drink. No glass bottles. There will also be food trucks on site.

PARKING/CARPOOL/BUS
Carpool if possible because there is limited parking.
There’s a public bus (the 260) that takes you to the foot of the ranch. Visit metro.net to figure out your route.
All cars must check in at the Zorthian Ranch parking lot, which is located at the foot of the mountain. Follow signs and instructions from the parking crew. Do not park in the residential area near the ranch. Parking is permitted only in Folk Fest marked areas.

DOGS No dogs allowed.

CHILDREN are welcome but parents/guardians must take total responsibility for their child’s safety and whereabouts at all times. No child should be left unattended at any time. Sharp, heavy, loose objects are on exhibit everywhere. You and your child will be asked to leave without a refund if the child is found alone, or playing with or on any exhibited objects, or if you fail to comply with all child safety rules.

ADULTS This is a downhome affair. Be respectful as if it were your home. Be careful. Don’t drink and drive. Don’t fall down the hill. The New Los Angeles Folk Fest and its sponsors, donors, volunteers, workers and founders are not liable for anything that happens to you while you are on the property of Zorthian Ranch or en route to and from. Remember, sharp, heavy, loose objects are on exhibit everywhere. Treat everything with respect. You will be asked to leave without a refund if you are found playing with or on any exhibited objects, or if you fail to comply with any rules.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:

Goethe-Institut Los Angeles
http://goethe.de/losangeles

Bedrock LA
http://bedrock.la/

Expressing Feelings Through Art (EFTA) was founded in 1981 by Rose D. Jenkins-Mallory, M.D., Director of Children and Youth Services and later Deputy Director for the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. The Program is a broad-based countywide arts initiative devoted to encouraging the personal expression of young people through art and the written word. The annual EFTA exhibition validates the creative efforts of public high school students and their art teachers, as significant and worthy by presenting their artworks to the community-at-large, and providing monetary awards. 

23 art teachers from 12 high schools in the Los Angeles area participated in this year’s EFTA exhibition. 5 judges with specialties in several different disciplines were brought in to select the final show; Jervey Tervalon, recognized novelist, Kayleen Maya-Aviles, public relations and marketing expert for Valencia Perez and Echeveste, John McLean, Arts Commissioner for the City of Pasadena, Jessica Edelstein, former art director at TBWA\CHIAT\DAY and recent recipient of a masters in art therapy, and Marylin Palmer, visual artist and formerly with Los Angeles Department of Children’s Services for 30 years. From the approximate 150 pieces submitted, 55 were shown and 10 were awarded cash prizes. One student, selected by Art Center College of Design’s Outreach Program Manager, Cecilia Ybarra, received a scholarship to Art Center’s Saturday High Program. Each of the 10 cash award recipients’ teachers were awarded matching cash prizes.

Every awardee and their art teacher came to the reception, held today, May 12th, at Art Center College of Design’s south campus. Many parents, teachers, and whole families came out to support the students – the gallery was at capacity. Teachers shared stories about their students opening up through their experience with EFTA. You could sense the feeling of accomplishment in teachers and students alike. Mothers were greeted with flowers, a thank you for spending time out of their special day to support the EFTA exhibition.

We want to thank everyone – student artists, teachers, and community members – for coming to the reception and for making it such a wonderful event. EFTA is produced by Light Bringer Project in association with Mental Health America of Los Angeles County. The program is funded in part by a generous grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation.

EFTA art work in the gallery at Art Center College of Design’s south campus

First place winner Leonardo Le Gaspe and his very proud mother in front of his art work (10th grade, South Pasadena High School, teacher: Aimee Levie-Hultman)

Reception attendees waiting for the awards ceremony

Thomas Coston presents an award to Fairfax High School art teacher Elizabeth Kim

Thomas Coston presents award to fourth place winner Lindy Wong (11th grade, John Marshall High School, teacher: Joseph Slepak)

Art Center College of Design’s Outreach Program Manager, Cecilia Ybarra, presents the Saturday High Scholarship to Josh Sunga (9th grade, South Pasadena High School, teacher: Rouzanna Berberian)

All of the award winners at EFTA 2013, with their teachers

The 36th Occasional Pasadena Doo Dah Parade was held 2 weeks ago on Saturday, April 27th. Known as the “Twisted Sister” of the ‘other well-known Pasadena parade’, Doo Dah is a hub for collective fun and creativity, art cars and unusual floats – and humor and expression though unique skits… home made and hand made costumes, live performances, satirical commentary, and live music. A new entry this year, a group of Metropolitan Nash cars drove the parade route, hyping up the crowd right before the parade started. This year’s Doo Dah Parade featured over 60 entries, featuring Queen Susann and her entourage in pirate attire, Grand Marshall Alan Zorthian (with llama) and the Thorny Rose Frank Girardot, editor of the Pasadena Star News.

Light Bringer Project sees the Pasadena Doo Dah Parade as the ultimate freedom of expression and promotion of creativity and individuality. It is a time when the community comes together and everyone can be their interesting and unique selves. To some, that means driving cupcake shaped cars, dressing in Renaissance attire, riding vintage bicycles or marching in a band. It’s a parade free of judgement and is open to all. While Doo Dah promotes ‘wild and crazy,’ the parade is always family friendly.

Doo Dah-er Morticia Adams said, “I went and had a blast. Both my seven year old daughter and my thirteen year old son had a good time, and that rarely happens!”

Another Doo Dah-er Yeb Beirta said, “I just love how this event promotes being liberated, advocates being yourself, and appreciates daring to be different. That’s what California is to me and it’s awesome having a parade to celebrate that!”

Well said, Yeb. Thank you to everyone for participating, viewing and supporting the parade. We hope the Pasadena community is ready for many more years of Doo Dah – we sure are!

Photo by Barry Holley

Photo by Brian Biery

Photo by Brian Biery

Photo by Cherie Gillette

Photo by Cherie Gillette

Photo by Daryl Lemick

Photo by Dennis Fitzgerald

Photo by Dietmar Kohl

Photo by Patricia Tyson

Photo by Susan Naples

Photo by Tavo Olmos

Photo by Brian Biery

Escape wherever you are and meet us in Ojai for the weekend. See them rolling hills, breathe that ocean-kissed air, and have a party at a cozy tavern nestled in the woods.

GOOD LUCK THRIFT STORE OUTFIT
Rooted in Americana, country and hillbilly influences, this band delivers soul donning beards, overalls, and flannel. They sit at the throne of a revival scene in their native Oakdale.

RESTAVRANT
Restavrant is junkyard high art. Electrocana, roots, punk, country and slide blues merge through the mad science of frontman Troy Murrah’s mischievous guitar and his drummer’s homemade drum set’s beer buckle breaks.

OCHA LA ROCHA
Johnny la Rocha’s grainy vocals and irreverent lyrics evoke a juke joint bluesman, a libidinous southern rocker, and a tender-hearted, crooning cowboy. His band juxtaposes stripped down rock songs with lavish, quasi-psychedelic arrangements, next to wailing country folk.

BLOODY DEATH SKULL
The band swirls together ukulele with whatever sounds, toys and instruments they enjoy into a pleasant, lo-fi sound, rooted in the sort of fun, sappy, playful and sneaky tunes you find in late-50s American Rock and Soul. Visually, the outfits, toys, lights and bubbling test tubes are a feast. It’s a PBS daycare set.

The Deer Lodge
Built in 1932 as a general store where travelers could pick up picnic supplies and ice, the Deer Lodge also served as a place for hunters to skin deer, hence the name. In the 1930s and ’40s its basement was reputed to be a secret gathering spot for gamblers and ladies of the night, and in 1947 it was transformed yet again into a popular bar and dance hall. By the 1960s, it had become a rugged roadhouse, where cowboys, bikers and hunters could shoot pool, play darts and get into a brawl or two.

Tickets: $10 available online or at the door.

This school year, Light Bringer Project has been mentoring the L.A. Futures Academy students from the Tech Academy at Foshay Learning Center. LBP worked with student teams as they created a large portfolio of work supporting public service campaigns on topics of their choice. Each group, headed by an account manager, consisted of a writer, videographer, technologist, and art director. Each team developed a creative brief, print ads, an advertising stunt, wrote a press release, created a 60 second commercial, and build a website to house it all.

For their final presentation, the groups presented their PSA campaigns to creatives at IgnitedUSA. IgnitedUSA COO Bill Rosenthal was a part of the panel. He spoke with a couple students afterwards, personally complementing them on their work and presentation. It was amazing to see the students receiving praise and helpful suggestions from major ad industry creatives and execs.

Special thanks to Continental Colorcraft for printing copies of each groups’ print ads. It really increased the value and meaning of the campaigns and inspired our students.

Light Bringer Project had a wonderful time working with the L.A. Futures Academy students at Foshay. It was great being able to see each group grow their idea into a full body of professional work. And, most important, their experience, portfolios and raised expectations will make them more competitive as they move on into higher education toward their desired careers!

LAFA|Foshay students get ready to present at IgnitedUSA

A team presents their portfolio through a website

A team presents their portfolio through a website

One team gets audience participation by asking a question

IgnitedUSA COO Bill Rosenthal complements one of the presenters

Creatives, LBP representatives, and Foshay Principal listen to presentations

Congratulations LAFA|Foshay on a wonderful year! Best of luck to all of you after graduation!

Via Light Bringer Project Business is Booming for Roo.. March 27, 2013, 10:19 p.m.

The Room 13 philosophy says that creative studios should, ultimately, be run and financially supported, at least in part, by the students themselves. While challenging, Room 13’s young artists have often found resources within themselves and their peers that have never been tapped. Many find it astonishing that the first Room 13 artists who carved this entrepreneurial path were in elementary school (Caol Primary, Scotland). Room13/Eliot students in Altadena, CA., followed in their footsteps and created a micro business out of their love for portrait photography.

At first, our students expressed an interest in taking pictures of one another. They used a borrowed camera and created simple settings. It wasn’t long before others, including parents and the Principal took notice. Light Bringer Project applied for a grant with the Pasadena Community Foundation, who awarded them the money to purchase professional photography equipment like DSLR cameras, Mac Computer, lighting equipment and backdrops. With the support of Room13/Eliot’s Artist-In-Residence, Amber Tilden, and professional photographer and mentor, Julie Klima, the students launched a business they aptly named Pix By Tweens. We’re proud to say their enterprise has grown and is now in high demand.

Monies raised by Pix by Tweens is contributed to Room13/Eliot to support and sustain their studio arts practice.

“The Pix By Tweens are amazing and talented young artists. They are already able to grasp a variety of concepts, such as depth of field, composition, lighting and how to create a powerful portrait. It’s a joy to work with them and we’ll be continuing working on portraiture, other photography skills, and more photo booth events,” says Julie Klima.

Julie is a graduate of Art Center College of Design in Pasadena and has worked professionally for 5 years. We’re proud to have her on our Room 13 team.

“It’s wonderful seeing the young artists work with professional equipment and adjust the camera settings to make sure they create the best possible photo.”

Kelly Phillips, who had her photo taken by Pix by Tweens

“Photography has taught me to appreciate the little things that are all around us.”

Pix by Tweens photographer Clairese French

“Pix by Tweens has brought me closer to the people involved in it.”

Room 13 photographer Abby Webster

You can hire Pix By Tweens for your special event or activity by contacting them on their website at pixbytweens.com

Photo Booth at San Rafael Elementary’s Annual Fundraiser at Westridge School “Dancing for Dollars”

Pix by Tweens photographers with Room13/Eliot Artist-in-Residence Amber Tilden

Photo Booth at Room 13 art show at Opus Bank – Sandra D’Amato-Flores, VP Retail Banking Manager and Pasadena Mayor Bill Bogaard

Example of Eliot Middle School student portrait, shot by Pix by Tweens

Pix by Tweens photographers working in the studio

Photography mentor Julie Klima works with a Pix by Tweens photographer, learning camera techniques at the Natural Museum of History

 

Via Light Bringer Project Expressing Feelings Through.. March 12, 2013, 8:54 p.m.

As spring approaches, so does the Expressing Feelings Through Art (EFTA) exhibit. High school students from 25-30 schools in Los Angeles County submit art every year. The scholarship and exhibition program promotes dealing with emotions through artistic expression. Each student who participates creates a piece of art they paint, draw or photograph, that best expresses a strong feeling. He or she also submits a short written statement about the work, describing the story and emotion behind it.

A team of judges from all over Los Angeles representing visual arts, literary arts and the mental health field, sift through all the art submitted, awarding a first, second, third, and fourth place awards, with eight honorable mentions. Prize money is given to students with a matching amount going to their art teachers at the culminating ceremony.

Light Bringer Project works in partnership on EFTA with Mental Health America of Los Angeles. MHALA is dedicated to promoting mental health recovery and wellness. 

The EFTA exhibition and awards ceremony will be held at Art Center College of Design’s south campus (950 S. Raymond Ave. Pasadena, CA 91105) on Sunday, May 12th. The event is free of charge. It will be attended by art teachers, parents, siblings, friends and family.  The exhibit remains on view to Art Center students, faculty and the general public for a full week. 

 

“At the reception,” says Cecelia Ybarra, Art Center’s Outreach Program Manager, “we present one student to receive a free course in our Saturday High program for 9th- 12th graders (value: $275 – $350).  What I like about EFTA is that it helps young people identify their feelings. Emotions can be overwhelming, especially for high school students. EFTA gives youth the space to consider how they feel and convey that passion through words and images. Going through that process in EFTA helps them get ready for more rigorous creative output, and we appreciate the chance to further their creative education in Saturday High.”

Light Bringer Project would like to thank all the teachers and students, along with Art Center and MHALA for participating year after year. EFTA is partially funded through a grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation.

Art Center’s Cecelia Ybarra stands with EFTA student.

Tom Coston of Light Bringer Project addresses the crowd at the EFTA 2012 reception.

EFTA 2012 first place artist Brandon Towns from San Pedro High School with teacher Donald Hughes.

Artwork from EFTA 2012

Artwork from EFTA 2012

Artwork from EFTA 2012

 

 

 

 

 

Via Light Bringer Project Room 13 Explores the Los An.. Feb. 25, 2013, 11:22 p.m.

Recently, Room13/Eliot and Room13/JohnMuir took a trip to the Natural History Museum at Exposition Park in Los Angeles. The trip came out of inspiration we received from a Room 13 in Scotland. At Room13/Caol, artists would often paint the view from their studio – hills and mountains as far as the eye could see.

The view from the window. Room13/Caol, Scotland, artists inquired, “What lies beyond those mountains?”

Eventually, the artists started to inquire what was beyond those hills. Eventually, the Aritst-in-Residence said, “If you are curious as to what is beyond the mountains, we should go find out.” Not long after, the first Room 13 Expedition took place to the summit of Ben Nevis in Scotland (1996).

Room13/Caol, Scotland, explore the hills and mountins beyond their studio.

It is so important for young people to question and explore their environment. While Room13/Eliot and Room13/JohnMuir didn’t backpack through the mountains, they did explore their own Los Angeles environment through the use of public transportation. The young artists learned how to purchase travel cards, ride the Metro, transfer trains, and read the map to determine how many stops were left before our destination. They learned they weren’t dependent on others for rides to and from places they want to go. Navigating on the Metro is easy!

Upon their arrive at the Natural History Museum, we walked through halls of dinosaurs, sketching as we went. Hopefully the artists will be inspired to create more finished pieces based off their sketches! After a successful trip, we are encouraging the artists to plan their own future trips and expeditions.

Metro Gold Line at Delmar Station.

 

The young artists learn how to load and use their Metro travel cards.

 

Even Room13/Eliot Artist-in-Residence is learning how to use the Metro! It’s a learning experience for all.

 

Room13/Eliot and Room13/JohnMuir waiting for the next train to come.

 

Room13/JohnMuir artists and Artist-in-Residence Mri Scott ElBey ride the Metro.

Room13/Eliot artists and Artist-in-Residence Amber Tilden on the Metro.

 

Room13/Eliot and Room13/JohnMuir at Union Station – the oldest train station in Los Angeles.

 

Room13/Eliot and Room13/JohnMuir at the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles.

 

Room13/JohnMuir artist sketches at the Natural History Museum.

 

Room13/Eliot sketches at the Natural History Museum.

Room13/Eliot admires the dinosaur bones.

Room13/Eliot artist works with photography mentor Skittles while photographing exhibits at the Natural History Museum.

But Room13/JohnMuir didn’t stop there! Feeling full of energy after the Natural History Museum, the studio continued their exploration of Los Angeles. They rode the Metro to Chinatown where they visited a comic book store.

Room13/JohnMuir in Chinatown, Los Angeles.

Room13/JohnMuir in Chinatown, Los Angeles.

Via Light Bringer Project Foshay Technology Academy P.. Feb. 12, 2013, 10:48 p.m.

The L.A. Futures Academy is in full swing at Foshay Learning Center! Foshay’s Technology Academy empowers their students to think critically, take initiative, and to use their skills to make a positive impact in an ever-changing world. The Technology Academy at Foshay Learning Center features a cutting-edge curriculum specially designed for students with an interest in technology. Students have multiple opportunities to take advanced courses, get certified in Adobe software and IC3, and to participate in special programs such as mentorships and internships.

The Tech Academy seniors are currently creating Public Service Announcements. Each team chose a public service topic of interest and did research to find an interesting angle from which to create a campaign. After writing a creative brief to establish the message of their campaign, students set to work creating a print ad, slogan, logo, short commercial and press release for a promotional stunt. Once their campaigns are completed and polished, the teams will present their work to creatives at IgnitedUSA Advertising Agency in Torrance.

Light Bringer Project is in the Tech Academy classrooms on a regular basis, helping students develop their public service campaigns. “Light Bringer provides authenticity and a real-world presence in the classroom,” says Leslie Aaronson Lead Teacher and Coordinator of Foshay Learning Center’s Tech Academy.

Leslie was voted a 2012-2013 LAUSD Teacher of the Year for her work with Foshay’s Tech Academy. She has been awarded the California Partnership Academy grant for the Technology Academy since 2004 and works with business partners all over the community. She says, “My computer lab is a place for innovation and exploration. The digital portfolios the students create highlight their accomplishments and carry them through to the future.” To learn more about Leslie’s teaching approach, read her recent article “How Do We Get Students Ready for the Jobs of the Future?” on good.is.

Light Bringer Project panel (Tom Coston, Paddy Hurley and Kelly Phillips) critique each PSA campaign.

Foshay Learning Center Technology Academy students present their PSA campaign on cyber bullying.

Foshay Learning Center Technology Academy students present their PSA campaign on the importance of meeting deadlines.

Foshay Learning Center Technology Academy students present their PSA campaign on ‘old-school’ bullying.

Foshay Learning Center Technology Academy students present their PSA campaign on cyber bullying.

Foshay Learning Center Technology Academy lead teacher Leslie Aaronson.

Via New LA Folk Fest Save the Date: Saturday Aug.. Feb. 11, 2013, 12:09 a.m.

Folk Festival Day 2013!

Via New LA Folk Fest Photos from The 3rd New Los.. Feb. 10, 2013, 3:37 a.m.

The Flickr set of The 3rd New Los Angeles Folk Festival @ Zorthian Ranch

Photos by Abby Linne

Via Light Bringer Project Reflecting on 2012, Looking.. Jan. 29, 2013, 9:21 p.m.

Over the last month, Light Bringer Project has met with students and teachers, and taken the time to inquire, reflect and evaluate our educational programs in 2012. We want to make each and every year the best it can be, and based on that, set new goals and objectives for 2013. Looking at the educational programs and students we serve, we are seeing personal growth, skill-building and successful pathways to higher education and exciting careers being carved. It has always been important to us to impart to students that they are capable of being anything they dream, so long as they are willing to ask questions, do the work, and be open to learning from others.

L.A. Futures Academy punctuated the end of the year on a high note. Seniors at Dorsey High School performed to their greatest potential, surpassing our and their clients’ expectations. Dorsey High School has a high population of ‘at-risk’ teenagers. To be able to influence students through building a strong creative career-focused base with L.A. Futures Academy is truly rewarding.

Expressing Feelings Through Art is a preventative program which allows students to express their personal concerns in a safe and accepting environment, with the added benefit of a public exhibition and scholarships for them and their art teachers.

Our Room 13 students at John Muir High School, Eliot Middle School, and Foshay Learning Center continue to grow and thrive. Light Bringer Project also serves as the Room 13 creative art studio hub for North America. In 2012, we created a ‘tool kit’ that provides people who are interested in starting their own Room 13 with ample information. We have kept in contact with established studios and continue to assist those across North America who are passionate about the program and want to help it grow! This kind of independent art studio is not only enhancing their creative abilities, but helps to improve students’ performance in school and life in general. They learn to express new ideas, work in groups, and become responsible for running a small business.

 

  

Via New LA Folk Fest He’s My Brother, She’s My S.. Jan. 18, 2013, 11:31 p.m.

With Jenny O, Tommy Santee Klaws, and Ramshackle. The New L.A. Folk Fest presents the release party for He’s My Brother She’s My Sister’s new record, Nobody Dances In This Town.

Buy tickets: http://ticketf.ly/132f7up
Watch “Tales That I Tell” live
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bigAFfVNrpM

Tommy Santee Klaws 8pm
http://tommysanteeklaws.com/
Ramshackle 8:45pm
http://www.facebook.com/emilyosment
Jenny O. 9:30pm
http://jennyo.com/
He’s My Brother She’s My Sister 10:30pm
http://hesmybrothershesmysister.com/

We go way back with He’s My Brother She’s My Sister, way back to 2008, pretty sure, when we first saw this family band sing through clattering teeth on a wooden porch in Pioneertown, the ghost town behind Pappy and Harriet’s desert hideaway.

It was late, windy, and whiskey passed between the freezing hands of a tightly knit audience. Once the band got going, the would-be popsicle people were dancing and clapping and begged the band never to stop. Right then, we knew these guys were special. Plus they had a tapdancer for percussion.

They became early members of the Folk Fest family, actually, and played our first festival in 2010. Since then, Brother-sister Rob and Rachel Kolar, Lauren Brown, Oliver “Oliwa” Newell, and Aaron Robinson have toured the country and beyond, refining their sound and costume selection, leaving a trail of new fans wherever their gypsy wagon travels.

Not every show can take place in a desert saloon or mythical mountain ranch, but some bands manage to deliver a slice of that atmosphere when they perform for city-folk at a concert venue. With a vintage gleam and carousing mood they feel at home in a ghost town but it’s music very much present in the whimsical here and now. We like that.

Hope you’ll join us for our first show of the year, way out yonder in West Hollywood.

Via Light Bringer Project Welcoming New Intern, Anna .. Jan. 14, 2013, 7 p.m.

Light Bringer Project has a new intern, Anna Brown! Anna Brown was born and raised in Los Angeles and now attends Bennington College in Bennington, VT. She’s a Freshman currently studying theatre, biology, dance, and education-and trying to find a cohesive way to tie them all together. She should fit right in at LBP – we all wear many hats! Non profit organizations are a passion of hers and she’s thrilled to have this opportunity to bring more art into the community. She will be with us until February 15th. Welcome, Anna!

Via New LA Folk Fest January 19—HE’S MY BROTHER .. Jan. 7, 2013, 9:32 p.m.

  

Via Light Bringer Project L.A. Futures Academy Senior.. Dec. 18, 2012, 1:52 a.m.

Dorsey High School students of the L.A. Futures Academy’s two-year curriculum recently delivered their final project, a marketing campaign for Community Build, Inc. The nonprofit organization provides resources to young adults and families in the south Los Angeles community. Earlier this year, students met with several different area nonprofits to determine who they could best serve, and whose programs were most deserving of their marketing skills. But when Community Build posed the question, ”How can we achieve greater and more effective outreach to the young adults of Los Angeles? We need your help!” the students knew this was their client. The LAFA|Dorsey students appreciated the work Community Build is doing with youth in their very own community, most notably in the areas of education, jobs and parenting. 

 

As part of the LAFA curriculum, professional mentors at TBWA\CHIAT\DAY global advertising agency provided several months of training from creative to technical. These sessions with experts in the field equipped the teenagers with the thinking and know-how to go forward and independently develop the materials they envisioned. Students worked collaboratively, conducting in-person interviews with both their target market and their clients, they created a video marketing piece and other distribution materials. In the end, the Dorsey|LAFA students had an impressive product to show for themselves. 

 

Complete with their professional appearance, powerpoint presentation and spot on talking points, the LAFA|Dorsey students presented to Community Build Founder and President, Brenda Shockly, and Tracee Green and Dana Harris from the Community Build’s Vermont Avenue location. The engaging presentation and final reveal of the marketing campaign brought the clients to tears. Community Build was proud of the Dorsey students and said they will be utilizing all of the newly designed materials for future outreach for the organization.

LAFA|Dorsey students with Community Build members at TBWA\CHIAT\DAY after their presentation.

LAFA|Dorsey students discuss their marketing campaign design.

LAFA|Dorsey students sign their marketing campaign mock-up for Community Build.

 

 

Via Light Bringer Project Deja Doo Dah Dec. 3, 2012, 11:01 p.m.

What a great history-based Doo Dah night! At Deja Doo Dah last Friday, Kevin Brechner brought a Super 8 Film Projector for some of the older home Doo Dah Parade movies that hadn’t been coverted to digital yet. We were able to watch REAL old footage out of the shoebox in the closet, which was really exciting!

Especially the film LBP mysteriously received in the mail from a Bonnie McManus from Taos, NM, which had in it a super 8 film entitled Doo Dah 1 made in in 1978, the very first Doo Dah! Even Tom Coston was spotted! 

Stories of their parade experiences were shared by past participants and parade lovers.

It was a special treat to hear narration of a homemade movie (without sound) from Lynne Kirste, from the Academy of Motion Pictures, which is opening an archive for Doo Dah footage. Filmmaker, Paul Hart showed snidbits from a full length documentary he is creating on the last 10 years of Doo Dah, beginning with the year Dr. Demento was Grand Marshal. Even Larry Wilson shared some tidbits from his experiences at the parade.

The event was emceed by Brad MacNeil, Education Program Coordinator at the Pasadena Museum of History.

Don’t forget about “What a Long, Strange Trip It’s Been: 35 Years of the Pasadena Doo Dah Parade.” The retrospective is at the Pasadena Museum of history until January 13, 2013. Bring your family and friends and spend an afternoon surrounded by Doo Dah. You can also purchase Doo Dah merchandise (read: stocking stuffers!) in the gift store as well.

Hours: 12:00 Noon to 5:00 pm Wednesdays through Sundays.

Admission: $7 General; $6 Students & Seniors; Members & Children under 12 Free; Active Duty Military Personnel & Their Families Free.

With the school semester more than half over, the L.A. Futures Academy at Dorsey High School is well underway. This group of seniors is working with the non profit organization Community Build in Los Angeles and our business partner TBWA\Chiat\Day. The goal is for the L.A. Futures Team to create a marketing plan for Community Build, with the help of creative mentors at TBWA\Chiat\Day.

So far, the L.A. Futures Team has interviewed samples of their target market, met with directors and organizers at Community Build to seek out their youth outreach needs, drafted the marketing materials, and outlined a final presentation. These kids are working so hard! Their final presentation at which they present their marketing plan to directors at Community Build will be at TBWA\Chiat\Day headquarters at 5353 Grosvenor Blvd., Los Angeles on December 7th.

We’d also like to mention that the L.A. Futures Academy and Dorsey has recently received TWO computers from generous donors. THANK YOU! At the start of the semester, they did not have a single computer and it would have been nearly impossible for them to complete their assignment.

It’s time for the 3rd annual MURDER BALLADS tribute show. We bring together amazing bands to perform classic songs inspired by true crimes of passion.

Bloody Death Skull, Christian Lee Hutson (Driftwood Singers), Dirt Bird, Dorian Wood, Geronimo Getty, Gizzelle, Jenny Luna and the Moondogs, Marlene Perez (The Rhythm Shakers) with Alex Vargas, Papercranes, Restavrant, RT N’ The 44s, VUM

Watch videos of the participating bands at this link.

Dig up the foundation of American music and you’ll find that when love turned deadly, someone was there to sing about it. And these songs have lasted because, well, people like to sing about bodies floating in the river and driving a knife through a lover’s back.

Don’t wear anything that will impede your ability to dance with abandon.

SPINDRIFT

RESTAVRANT

RT N’ THE 44′s

The Deer Lodge
Saturday, November 10, at 9pm
2261 Maricopa Highway Ojai, CA 93023
Call to reserve a table: (805) 646-4256

The studios will showcase their artwork in the lobby of Opus Bank. Come and learn about Room 13, meet the artists, and view the incredible work they have done. Visitors can have their picture taken by Pix by Tweens, Room13/Eliot’s micro-business, and their portrait drawn by the caricature artists of Room13/JohnMuir. All atwork will be for sale. Light refreshments be provided by Noir Food and Wine (40 North Mentor Ave. Pasadena, CA) and Lovebirds Cafe & Bakery (Pasadena, CA).

Dear Friends,

I am calling upon you to support Light Bringer Project’s vital work in our community. We are happy to join forces with Fundly, an innovative social media fundraising tool, to help us strengthen and broaden our fundraising efforts through the end of the year. By supporting this campaign you will be directly impacting arts and learning for young people and enriching cultural experiences for those of all ages. As a nonprofit we are still feeling the impact of the economic downturn and rely on your support more than ever to maintain the quality of our programs. Please learn more about our exciting Fundly Fall Campaign launch by going to fundly.com/lightbringerproject. You can also share this with your friends by going to our Facebook Page and sharing our Fundly post. See for yourself how your help can make a difference in someone’s life! Help keep Light Bringer Project awesome!

Tom Coston
President

We are pleased to announce the addition of Kelly Phillips as a full time staff member. Kelly is a graduate of Providence College where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art, with a minor in Art History and Business Studies. She’s an avid photographer who enjoys documenting events and places. Kelly brings professional communication skills to the organization where she will focus on special projects, social media and outreach.