Pick of the Week is this Friday, Corey Helford's 5 Year Anniversary Celebration in Culver City!

My Pick of the Week is this Friday, Corey Helford’s 5^th Anniversary party. Yeah!!! Yes its summer, so get out there and play. I’ve said it before and I will say it again. The Corey Helford Gallery knows how to put on a Party…and since it is their 5^th anniversary party…you know it will be even more special.

Mark your calendar... Two Great Events happening July 9th and 10th. See KTR Promo’s new Upcoming Events Page.

Wednesday, June 29th

Joe's Restaurant is honored to present the V-SCAPE (Venice – Santa Monica Community Art & Performance Events) summer exhibition: Larry Bell works on Paper.

Preview reception will run  from 6-8 pm

You must RSVP to this one at  info@JoesRestaurant.com;


Immediately following the reception, Joe's will be offering a selection of gourmet three course dinners including selected wines at $75 per person.

The food is wonderful. So treat yourself! Call 310 399 5811 to reserve your table.Joe's Restaurant is located at 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice CA 90291.  http://www.joesrestaurant.com/.

Then pop on by deyermond art + books, 2801 Main Street, in Santa Monica.  Every Wednesday night enjoy spoken word, music, song and dance. 8:00-11:00 PM. www.deyermondbooks.com. Check out their site for Thursday Scrabble night too. They always put on fun events. Refreshments served.

On a completely different note, Singer/Songwriter Bruce Sanborn rocks out at Brennan’s tonight while celebrating his 50^th birthday! Keep on rockin’ Bruce. No cover; 2 for 1 burgers all night, yum and great music. Starts at 8:00 pm for one 50 minute set. He’ll have his full band, so it should be fun. Brennan's Pub is located at 4089 Lincoln Boulevard, Marina del Rey, CA 90292 (310) 821-6622. http://brennanspub-la.com/; http://www.thebrucesanbornband.com/

 

Thursday, June 30^th

There’s a new shop on Montana called Living by Lynne. Celebrate the grand opening of this new store, with an evening of wine, music and art. Meet the artists and artisans from 6:00 pm till 9:00 pm.

At this special event, the work of renowned artist, Ed Moses will be on display, a stunning interactive installation. You will also have the chance to meet him in person. Purchase his new book and walk away with a signed copy.

David Hume Kennerly, President Ford's personal photographer and a winner of the Pulitzer Prize, is also exhibiting his breathtaking photography, and also signing his books as well. Special of 10% off anything you buy tonight. Just mention “Celebrate with Savings” at the register. Living by Lynne is located at 1627 Montana Ave., Santa Monica 90403; http://livingbylynne.com/

Paparazzi Comedy now EVERY Last Thursday of the month. Hosted by Kente Scott featuring Tony Milazzo, and Kristi McHugh. Come hear the hottest and funniest comics on the Westside. Also performing Brandin Bowlin, Josh Nasar, Natasha Pearl Hansen, and special guest Stevie Mack It all happens at The Canal Club 2025 Pacific Ave,. in Venice. Valet and Street parking available. Drink and food specials. FREE before 8pm if you RSVP at paparazzicomedy@yahoo.com Produced by Gisele and event coverage by partyby5.com. Please arrive early, limited seating. FREE BEFORE 8pm $5 cover after 8pm.

Friday July 1^st

 

Now before my Pick of the Week, you may want to stop by Figtree’s Café to enjoy a tasty happy hour and hear some great live music tonight at 5:00 pm. Fefe Lee, will be performing a solo set on guitar. Beatle songs are a big part of his repertoire. Show goes till 7:00 pm.

Figtree’s Café is known for their healthy delicious food, located right on the Venice boardwalk at 429 Ocean Front Walk Venice, at Paloma Ave, two blocks south of Rose. Figtree’s has been voted the best restaurant on the boardwalk since 1978. Figtree’s has a wonderful happy hour, Monday thru Friday and also has FREE delivery. 310 392-4937; www.figtreescafe.com;

 

Back to my Pick of the Week, tonight Corey Helford Gallery will be celebrating its 5 Year Anniversary in a big way.

The gallery will unveil “Zero to Sixty” showcasing new works by more than 50 artists, and opening night will include many special surprises for guests to interact with. A great way to kick off the 4th of July weekend.

 

“Zero to Sixty” is a show of what’s best at Corey Helford Gallery and what’s to come. New works from the artists who’ve shown with the gallery from the beginning and a host of works from artists like Joe Sorren, Todd Schorr, Greg Simkins, Kent Williams, Nick Walker, Sas and Colin Christian, and also some artists who have never shown before, like MEGGS and Kazuki Takamatsu. .  As always they will be serving wine, goodies, refreshments and some special treats for tonight’s big party. This special opening will run from 7:00 pm till 10:00 pm. Corey Helford Gallery is located at 8522 Washington Blvd., in Culver City 90232; www.coreyhelfordgallery.com.

 

If you would rather stay in Venice, head to First Fridays on Abbot Kinney.

 

In case you have never been to First Fridays on Abbot Kinney, the festivities start around 6:30 pm. Stores stay open till around 9:00 pm.

DUE TO THE HOLIDAY, Some of the shops that are always open will be closed, but  here is a list of some shops that have confirmed with me that they will indeed be open and participating in the event. So start with these, and I’m sure you will stumble on more.

 

You may want to start here since it’s located on the North end.  Get there early and snag a table (call to reserve) while you enjoy a delicious dinner with some drinks and dancing. Or pop in later for standing room only. Still fun, but a bit crowed.

This First Friday is "AMERICANA NIGHT" at Joe's featuring The Peter Kavanugh Trio with special guests Brian Hogan & Christine Nelson. Kick off the 4th of July weekend with a celebration of American Popular Music and take a trip in time from the Forties through the Sixties and beyond!

Enjoy a "revolutionary" bonus, Joe’s is offering a special tonight. Book an early romantic dinner on the patio between 6 and 7 p.m. and enjoy a free glass of wine with purchase of an entree or bar menu item! The music starts at 7:30 pm and runs to midnight. Joe’s offers delicious food and an edgy ambiance with a wonderful selections of spirits. There is no cover charge. RSVP, email joesevent@yahoo.com or call 310.399.581; Joe's Restaurant is located at 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice CA 90291.  http://www.joesrestaurant.com/.

There’s a new print shop and gallery on Abbot Kinney, called Post No Bills, in the former Equator Books location, which was started by music producer Jordan Bratman and London-based gallery owner Steve Lazarides, best known for his work with Banksy. Though they are NOT having an event tonight, if you get there early enough, stop in to see the work of Brooklyn-based art duo FAILE's prints. Post No Bills is located at 1103 Abbot Kinney Blvd.,  90291. http://www.postnobillsshop.com/

Right off Santa Clara, is Nitespa, 1301 Abbot Kinney who will be open and offers all kinds of little treats and specials during the evening. They always create a fun festive vibe. Enjoy their handpicked spa soundtrack, rosemary water and organic teas. There will also be art and jewelry for sale. Open till 10:00 pm. mini-makeovers and specials on all treatments. The entrance is on Santa Clara. 310.396.5122; http://www.nitespa.com/.

Keep going north and on the right side is Ananda 1356 Abbot Kinney Blvd. (310) 399-4186….they will be open, keeping it pretty mellow.

Now in the back part of this store is Hair Venice, they will be showing photography by Samuel Bendall, entitled "Illuminated Abandonment: The dark side of the urbanacape" @ Hair Venice Salon,1354 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice 90291. 8pm-11pm

Right next door, Skylark 1356 Abbot Kinney Blvd will also be open 310 392-9099; www.skylarkvenice.com

As well as, Bohemian Exchange who sells beautiful clothes and accessories and will be serving yummy refreshments and all vintage stuff is 20% off!!

Bohemian Exchange is located at 1358 Abbot Kinney, at California 310.396.3044; http://www.bohemianexchange.com

Up the street, The G2 Gallery (1503 Abbot Kinney) will NOT be having an event tonight, however will be open raising funds for the next cause, the Catalina Island Conservancy. You can enjoy the exhibit, Catalina: The Wildlands at Your Doorstep with Marc Muench, Carlos de la Rosa, and Jack Baldelli The opening reception will be next week. A $5 Admission at the door will directly support Catalina Island Conservancy. 310-452-2842; http://www.theg2gallery.com

Right next door, you have to stop into Zingara Trading 1507 Abbot Kinney for their Fiesta First Friday event. Now, owner, Donna Humphrey knows how to get into the spirit, offering chips and salsa and their famous S'mores…Yum! Free glitter tattoos. They have one of-a-kind clothing and accessories….simply gorgeous and are also have great sales too. 310 392-6424;  http://www.zingaratrading.com/

And across the street at one of my favorite furniture stores, Tumbleweed and Dandelion 1502 Abbot Kinney Blvd will be open with wine and snacks and a Furniture sale too!  310-450-4310.

The Modern Dog, a charming Pet accessory store, is located at 1611 Abbot Kinney will be having a book release party for Caitlin Shetterly. Caitlin used to work for The Modern Dog and has included a mention is this fun book entitled “Made for you and Me: Going West, Going Broke, Finding Home”. Refreshments will be served. 310-450-2275; http://www.caitlinshetterly.com/; http://www.come-sit-stay.com/.

Robin Murez, will be having a lovely event in the beautiful glass garden, hidden smack in the middle of Abbot Kinney known as Robin’s Sculpture Garden. Enjoy the music of Tommy Santee Klaws, accompanied, high above, by Svetlana & Pamela doing aerials in the sky. Also new this month: "Show Me Your Mumu," has opened up shop with their Summery beautiful line of women's clothing. Tonight is the Grand Opening. http://www.showmeyourmumu.com/. Robin’s Sculpture Garden, is located at 1632 Abbott Kinney. This one tends to start later, 8:00 pm till 11:00 pm.

If you are in the downtown area, from 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Norbertellen Gallery presents an all woman ensemble featuring Reichel Miyao, Sakuan Izumi, Yoshimi Ohtani, Minako Saitoh Botsford, Mayumin and Aya Jine. Norbertellen Gallery is located at 215 W. 6^th St. #110. 818 662 5041; www.norbertellengallery.com

And in Silver Lake,  La Luz De Jesus Gallery presents artists, Van Saro, Simon Sotelo, Andy Steele, Hui Tann and Mark Todd. The opening reception starts at 8:00 pm and will run till 11:00 pm. La Luz De Jesus Gallery is located 4633 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90027. Phone 323-666-7667;  http://www.laluzdejesus.com/

Saturday, July 2^nd

There is not much going on this weekend in terms of Art Openings….so I picked out a few 4^th of July events as well as more for the weekend updated. But here are some other off beat suggestions…

Anime Expo is an annual convention, held in 2011 on July 1 - 4, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Anime Expo has grown in scale dramatically, and is currently the largest anime and manga convention in North America.

Popular large events include the Masquerade, Anime Music Video Contest, Concerts, Battle of the Bands, and the "AX Idol" contest. Anime Expo is a 24-hour convention that offers late-night dances, all night video programming, tabletop gaming rooms, and open-mic Karaoke in the late evening/early morning hours. Many of the attendees cosplay (don’t ask me?), while attending the convention, and there are many gatherings for fans of different anime and manga series.

 

Renowned for its ability to bring famous guests to America for panels and concerts, Anime Expo has been the site of many U.S. premiers of shows, movies, and bands. LA Convention Center is located at 1201 Figueroa St., Downtown, 90015 For more information, please visit their official website at www.anime-expo.org

Yes it’s a holiday weekend and we do tend to drink too much. So you may as well give in, and save some bucks. Do a pubcrawl this Independence Day Weekend. That's right! Time to put on your Red White & Blue and celebrate our freedom!

Registration Times: Saturday July 2nd | Noon - 9:00 pm (Do NOT be late Check-in closes at 9:00 pm sharp)Your ticket to the Walk of Fame's Famous Bars without having to pay a cover. Not to mention you will receive the best deal with these outrageously awesome drink specials:

Drink Specials $2 Draft Beers; 2-for-1 Mixed Drinks; $4 Shots Free Afterparty at ecco nightclub with No Cover! (Normally $20) Be sure to check the website for more details http://www.californianightlife.com/

It’s all about the 4^th of July this weekend. Do you wanna see Fireworks??? Start early this year at the Hollywood Bowl, Daryl Hall & John Oates join the orchestra for a night of their classic hits, plus spectacular fireworks and good old-fashioned American music to celebrate our country’s 235th birthday. Hall and Oates play the Hollywood Bowl from July 2^nd- July 4^th starting at 7:30. Tickets will run from $31.00 -$158.00 officially, or scalp them for $20 or so. 323 850-2000; http://bit.ly/kuKiEc

This event happens tomorrow Sunday and on Monday the 4^th….I will be posting lots more for the weekend update.

Sunday July 3rd

 

Hang by the beach in Santa Monica and stop into Bleicher/Golightly Gallery (1431 Ocean Ave in SM) celebrates the closing reception of the group show, “A Rare Bird,” a new body of work by artist Carol Powell, inspired by her volunteer work in bird rescue. Snowy egrets, owls, penguins and ducks populate these mixed media works set on sewn fabric collage.

A portion of the proceeds from “A Rare Bird” will go towards the International Bird Rescue organization. Reception runs from 4:00 pm till 7:00 pm http://www.Bird-Rescue.org/ http://www.Bird-Rescue.org/310 878-2784; http://bgartdealings.com

You have another chance to go to the Hollywood Bowl, where Daryl Hall & John Oates join the orchestra for a night of their classic hits, plus spectacular fireworks and good old-fashioned American music to celebrate our country’s 235th birthday. Hall and Oates play the Hollywood Bowl from July 2^nd- July 4^th starting at 7:30. Tickets will run from $31.00 -$158.00 officially, or scalp them for $20 or so. 323 850-2000; http://bit.ly/kuKiEc

Check back for the Weekend Update….I will have lots of choices for you for tomorrow, the 4^th of July.

Weekend Update...New Events added. Come enjoy the celebration at Seyhoun Gallery this Saturday for the Pick of the Week!

Don’t miss it….This Saturday is the PICK OF THE WEEK, the opening reception of Seyhoun Gallery’s group show in West Hollywood. 

Sona Mirzaei, an incredible artist, is one of the artists set to show in this group exhibition, curated by Maryam Seyhoun. This show will also feature works by Majid Arghavan, Banafsheh Beheshti, Neda Chaychi and Fahimeh Sorkhabi.

The opening reception starts at 6:00 pm and continues till 9:00 pm and will be a fabulous party. Enjoy hors d'oeuvres, wine while gazing at beautiful work at this lovely artist reception. http://www.sonamirzaei.com/; http://www.seyhoungallery.net/

See my recent article in Singular City Magazine. http://bit.ly/m3pop3

Mark your calendar... Two Great Events happening July 9th and 10th. See KTR Promo’s new Upcoming Events Page. 

Friday June 24^th

During the day, if you find yourself in the Downtown area, from noon till 2:00 pm, Arts Brookfield presents Third Rail Projects’ bold re-imagining of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass through a 20-minute contemporary dance performed continuously for two hours in the gardens of Bank of America Plaza. 333 S. Hope St, 90071; http://bit.ly/kZMUtk

Drop by South, for their “Friday Night Lights” (out door BBQ and live music).  Yummy happy hour too!  Starting at 3:00 pm and runs till 8:00 pm. South also offers drink specials. $3 beer, ($10.00 pitchers) and $5 wells, South is located at 3001 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90403. (310) 828-9988; http://southsantamonica.com/.

There are several events in the downtown area. One is near China Town and is a group show entitled “Queering Sex” at Human Resources, located 410 Cottage Home St Los Angeles, CA 90012. This is a FREE Event 7:00-10:00 pm. 213-290-4752; http://humanresourcesla.com/

Greene Park Gallery located at 943 N Hill Street, 90012 is pleased to announce the closing event for the exhibition, The Unfinished from 7:00pm-9:00 pm. This group show features works by Ricardo Rivera, Aaron GM, and Christy Roberts. 323-333-6610; http://www.greeneparkgallery.com

Here’s another Downtown/Boyle Heights happening which sounds interesting. A traveling art show which was established in May of 2009, The Pancakes & Booze Art Show has been sweeping the nation with a whirlwind of emerging and underground artists! Shows now in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Nashville, Minneapolis, Atlanta, & Denver! Be aware that they do charge $5.00 to get in. Takes place at LOT 613, which puts on lots of Art Events, 613 Imperial St, Los Angeles, CA 90021. This event will also be happening tomorrow. (323) 934-7777; http://pancakesandbooze.com/

If you prefer Venice, Figtree’s Café features live music tonight at 5:00 pm. Fefe Lee, who plays for Los Pinguos, will be performing a solo set on guitar. Beatle songs are a big part of this repertoire. Show goes till 7:00 pm.

Figtree’s Café is known for their healthy delicious food, located right on the Venice boardwalk at 429 Ocean Front Walk Venice, at Paloma Ave, two blocks south of Rose. Figtree’s has been voted the best restaurant on the boardwalk since 1978. Figtree’s has a wonderful happy hour, Monday thru Friday and also has FREE delivery. 310 392-4937; www.figtreescafe.com; 

Or in Santa Monica, deyermond art + books will be having a special fundraising event which is FREE by the way. A portion of all book sales from the evening will benefit Room To Read,* so enjoy a drink, buy a book and indirectly help build a library!  

Room to Read seeks to transform the lives of millions of children in developing countries by focusing on literacy and gender equality in education. Event runs from deyermond art + books is located at 2801 Main Street, in Santa Monica 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm. http://www.roomtoread.org/; http://www.deyermondbooks.com/.

 

Saturday, June 25^th

Time for the PICK OF THE WEEK! Come meet contemporary artist, Sona Mirzaei who will be showing tonight in a group exhibition at Seyhoun Gallery. Enjoy hors d'oeuvres, wine while gazing at beautiful work at this lovely artist reception.

Sona Mirzaei has been a busy woman. Having recently returned from being the only American artist participating in the Elephant Parade in Copenhagen Sona has been working nonstop, showing her work in San Francisco, Toronto, and all over Los Angeles. She is collaborating with other artists on a public art project for the City of Los Angeles, she was recently requested to show selections of her work at the San Francisco Convention Plaza, her work is currently on display at Hotel des Arts in San Francisco, and she will participate in Elephant Parade Singapore 2012.

Seyhoun Gallery is located at 9007 Melrose Ave, between Doheny and Robertson Blvd. This group show reception will also feature works by Majid Arghavan, Banafsheh Beheshti, Neda Chaychi and Fahimeh Sorkhabi from 6:00 pm -9:00 pm. http://www.seyhoungallery.net/; http://www.sonamirzaei.com/

Right next door, you’ll want to stop into The Aboriginal Dream Time Gallery, located at 9011 Melrose Ave in West Hollywood, 90048. They just happen to be having an opening tonight for their new show, Dreamings: Works by Gabrielle Pool. Sydney-based artist Gabrielle Pool was born in 1976 in Kaharoa, New Zealand. Since her first exhibition at the age of 16, held in Japan, her work has continued to receive commercial and critical acclaim. 

Reception runs from 6:00 pm till 8:00 pm. This is a free event. Light refreshments and wine will be served. 310.278.4278; http://aboriginaldreamtimegallery.com/

Since you're already in West Hollywood, head on over to Fairfax and Santa Monica Blvd to the New Image Art Gallery. This group show features artists, Augustos Thompson, Suzannah Sinclair and Annie Vought. Reception: 7:00 pm- 10:00 pm. The New Image Art Gallery is located at 7908 Santa Monica Blvd 90046, 323.654.2192
http://www.newimageartgallery.com/

Artist Lesley Vance is celebrated at David Kordansky Gallery, 3143 S. La Cienega Blvd., Unit A.  

The show will include both paintings and watercolor works on paper. The opening reception runs from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. 310-558-3030; http://davidkordanskygallery.com/.

The Whole 9 will be having an opening reception for a group show, entitled “Life is just a Fantasy”.  

The Whole 9 is located at 6101 Washington Blvd,

Artist reception: 6:30 till 10:00 pm. Wine and refreshments served. 310 836-4601; http://thewhole9.com/

Indie Collective presents the closing reception of the Jenny Hager show and closing party for indie collective gallery (Yes this wonderful store and gallery is closing). 

Event runs from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Wine and yummies will be served. http://www.indiecollective.com/
 

Or you may want to play in Santa Monica. Start off at Bergamot Station 2525 Michigan Ave.

The Lora Schlesinger Gallery (T-3) is presenting "Animal and Mineral”, a new series of works by Carrie Sied. Carrie Seid's work crosses between painting and sculpture, organic and geometric, nature and man-made. The opening reception is from 5pm - 7 pm. In addition, The East Gallery will feature Abstraction, a group show with new works by Miya Ando, Richard Bruland and Keira Kotler. Each work selected represents the artist's interpretation of abstraction. 310-828-1133; www.LoraSchlesinger.com.

Since you’re at Bergamot, pop into the Patrick Painter Gallery (A-8 & B-2) to see the work of Bas Jan Ader. Opening reception: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 310-264-5988; http://www.patrickpainter.com

Stay in Santa Monica and head over to Bleicher/Golightly Gallery (1431 Ocean Ave in SM) celebrates the opening reception of the group show, “A Rare Bird,” a new body of work by artist Carol Powell, inspired by her volunteer work in bird rescue. Snowy egrets, owls, penguins and ducks populate these mixed media works set on sewn fabric collage.

A portion of the proceeds from “A Rare Bird” will go towards the International Bird Rescue organization. 

 Reception runs from 6:00 pm till 10:00 pm http://www.Bird-Rescue.org/ http://www.Bird-Rescue.org/310 878-2784; http://bgartdealings.com

Keep on keepin’ on in Santa Monica at deyermond art + books, 2801 Main Street, who will be having an opening for California Soul, a new collection from Jay Kelly. Live DJ, Drinks and Great Art. http://www.jkfineart.com/; http://www.deyermondbooks.com/ 

How bout some music??? And it’s in Santa Monica….cool! Neonwest, will be doing an acoustic set starting at 8:30 pm (till 9:30 pm) at Bar Pico, located at: 2819 Pico Blvd between 28th and 29^th. These guys can rock out! Other bands will be playing as well Geoffrey J, etc. Check their website or call. FREE No Cover. 310.310.8872; http://www.neonwest.com/; http://www.barpico.com/

Or at Rumors (formerly the Rumor Mill), at 11739 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, 90066, you can catch the band The Backboners,  (Bill Burnett, Kahlil Sabbagh and Ginger Smith and Suzy Williams) featuring the songs of The Mamas and the Papas. Great harmonies.  7:30 till 10:00pm. Free; http://therumormill.us/.

Sunday June 26^th

A wonderful yearly event that I always have fun at is…The 11th Annual Main Street Summer SOULstice, the largest free outdoor music event on the Westside. Over 20 live bands on 6 stages! Mostly Tribute bands at this event. (have never understood the allure, no one compares to the original artists). 1:00 pm – 7:00pm. http://www.mainstreetsm.com/.

Tentative line-up; schedule subject to change:(south to north)

Pier Ave: 1pm - Cubensis - The Grateful Dead Tribute; 3pm - Southbound (Allman Bros. tribute); 5pm - Surfin’ USA (Beach Boys tribute)

Kinney Ave: 1pm - Highway 61 Revisited (Dylan tribute); 3pm - Neil Deal (Neil Young tribute); 5pm - Petty Theft (Tom Petty tribute)

Wildflour Lot: (east side of Main, between Ashland & Hill) 1pm - Gilbert Hurricane - A Gary Gordon Tribute Band; 2pm - Ben Vaughn & The Lost Mind Ramblers; 3pm - The Ghouls

3:30pm - Helios Jive; 5:15pm - Elviss Simmons & The Memphis Strutters

New Orleans Bldg. Courtyard (presented by Agabhumi); 1pm - Mista Cookie Jar & The Chocolate Chips; 5pm - Bryan Titus

Museum Lawn (presented by The Basement), 2640 Main  3pm - The Devil’s Box; 4pm - City Fritter; 5pm - Dustbowl Revival; 6pm - The Get Down Boys

Edgemar Courtyard (2443 Main) 2:15pm - The Texas House Party; 4:30pm - Dr. Wu (Steely Dan tribute)

Elias Lot (NE corner Main & Strand, presented by Euphoria Loves RAWvolution) 1pm - Rock the Shakti with Micheline Berry, DJ Drez and Ensemble; 2pm - Breath of Life Tribe; 3pm - Rocky Dawuni; 3:45pm - Tom Freund; 5pm - Leftover Cuties; 6pm - Surprise Special Guest.

Thinkla presents Creative LA, a fundraising event featuring art, photography and jewelry to be sold….See their website for more info. This event will be held at The James Gray Gallery at Bergamot station 2525 Michigan Ave from 1:00 pm till 6:00 pm and has a $10.00 admission fee. http://www.thinkla.org/.

The Happening Gallery who is having a Sunday afternoon opening reception of a group show, entitled “Naughty Baby”. The event runs from 1:00 pm till 4:00 pm and the address is 4047 Lincoln Blvd. at Washington Blvd in Marina Del Rey. Wine & tasty treats will be served. A portion of proceeds will benefit Clothes the Deal,
a non-profit organization that supplies clothes to the homeless so that they can re-enter the workforce. 310 305-ARTS; www.thehappeninggallery.com.

At 4:00 pm, stop by the summer sunset concert series at UCLA’s Fowler…it’s FREE. It will take place in their outdoor amphitheater. Groove to a lively mix of swing, classic jazz, bebop, funk and tap by THE DOWNTOWN PROJECT, including Paul E. Allen, Elijah Rock, and Clarence Allen.

You can park in lot 4 which is self parking and depending on how long you stay will be no more than $10.00. But be sure that you are in LOT 4. UCLA is located at Westwood Blvd and Sunset. See map for directions. http://bit.ly/cffSum

Or in Venice, The Stefani Valadez Ensemble plays World Music Night at The Talking Stick Coffee Lounge 1411 Lincoln Blvd Venice 90291.

Event runs from 7:00pm till 10:00pm. There is a $10.00 cover on this one, plus a one drink minimum. 310.450.6052; www.thetalkingstick.net; www.stefanivaladezmusic.com;

Special Tuesday Event for a great Cause

Tonight, June 28th, the 2nd Annual Thirst Gala honors “Twilight’s” Michael Welch. Actress Chyler Leigh (“Grey’s Anatomy”) will co-host this fundraiser along with MTV “Teen Wolf” actor JR Bourne live from the Beverly Hilton! The two have a long-standing friendship with each other and we’re excited to see what a unique experience the evening will be!

Be aware, there is a pricy ticket of $500.00. Also the event is almost completely filled. However any donations will be greatly appreciated. Check the website to find out more about this organization. To purchase tickets, email info@thirstproject.org Check out their video for more info http://www.vimeo.com/24783409

Brooke Harker, a fabulous artist has donated a piece of her art…..simply gorgeous. (See image) and read her below statement. Harker consistently contributes to wonderful causes. http://www.brookeharker.com/

Artist Statement: I painted "Rain Spirits" specifically as an offering for the Thirst Project. There is nothing complex about this painting...cobolt turquoise, water, and love. Although the style of this painting does not reflect my current body of work on the surface, I  often underlay oil paintings with acrylic drippy washes to help the colors in outer layers pop. On days when I paint washes in a few minutes, with no ego to create a finished product, the washes turns out beautiful...and then I paint over them. Working on "Rain Spirits" with the intention to give became trickier in moments and took longer because I had to deal with thoughts that came up in the process. I learned from the studies of Japanese scientist, Masuru Emoto that water does respond to the vibration of words, thoughts, music etc...so therefore, as an artist, I have deduced my own responsibility to be aware of my thoughts when working with paint and water. I would like to say that "Rain Spirits" is free of ego or any negative thoughts that could affect the paint...but that is not the case...I filled the under layers of this canvas with Japanese Reiki healing symbols, I said kind words, I made wishes for people that need water and gave thanks for those that make those dreams a reality, but I also questioned if I could be in a place in my own head that was pure enough to create a feeling of peace or healing for others...and if I couldn't was the gift I create still worthy of being given? Maybe art doesn't need to create those feelings...but I believe in that potential and the ability of color to aid healing. Turquoise represents the ability to express oneself and speak truth from the heart as it is combines energies from the heart chakra which is green and the throat chakra which is blue. According to Philippa Merivale, from Healing with Color, "Turquoise carries within it a reminder that everything is interconnected." I am honored to contribute to this event and thank the Thirst Project for being a voice for so many, speaking truth about water and for being part of a solution.