Obey Giant

Arizona x SB1070 x Day 1

2010-07-29T23:00:58Z

Today marks the first day that the Immigration Law, SB1070, is in effect. The law met with some obstacles as some of the most controversial components of the law were struck down by a federal judge late last night. Also protesters were taking a stand as the entrance to Sheriff Arpaio’s station was faced with a human barricade to block any arrests processed under the law. Keep up the good fight! Thanks Ernesto for the photos.

Sea No Evil 2010

2010-07-28T01:10:50Z

2010 SEA NO EVIL ART SHOW
Benefiting SEA SHEPHERD CONSERVATION SOCIETY
Saturday, July 31st, 2010, 6:00 pm

For one night only over 60 art pieces from noted artists will be sold in an silent auction format for the sole benefit of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. Shepard will be there spinning records and will have limited edition Paul Watson Prints available plus donated artwork!

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS HERE

Riverside Municipal Auditorium
Corner of Mission Inn and Lemon in Riverside
3485 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, CA 92501-3304

Featured Music – The Crystal Method
Featured Acoustic Set – Matt Costa
Featured DJ – Shepard Fairey
Featured Speaker – Paul Watson

Captain Paul Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and focus of the Animal Planet’s popular series “Whale Wars” will be the featured speaker giving an update on the state of affairs in the Oceans of the world. It will be a speech you will not want to miss!

Donating Artists:

Aaron Martin
Alicia Wishart
Amanda Visell
Ame72 (Jamie Ame)
Amy Sol
Ana Bagayan
Andrea Seibt
Arnold Cornelio
Ashley Macomber
Audrey Kawasaki
Barbara Veiga
Bobby Hundreds
Brett Benham
Brooke Reidt
Caia Koopman
Camille Rose Garcia
Cathie Bleck
Chad Halstead
Chivo
Chris Anthony
Christopher Ryniak
Clayton Brothers
D. Silva
Dan Smith
Dave Kinsey
David Flores ATC
Deph
Dylan Martorell
Eli McGinty
Elizabeth Laul Healey
Elizabeth McGrath
Eric White
Fabian Iezzi
Frieda Gossett
FriendsWithYou
Gary Baseman
Glen E. Friedman
Greg “Craola” Simkins
Gretchen Ryan
Hezaa
Jason Gallo
Jeff Soto
Jennifer Springman
Jodi Frediani
Joe Ledbetter
Jon Chase
Jon Risinger
Joshua Petker
Joshua M. Smith / Hydro74
Jun Cha
Katy Betz
Kayle LeoGrande
Kev Munday
Kevin Christy
Kimberly Webber
Korin Faught
Kozyndan
Logan Hicks
Lola
Luke Chueh
Mari Inukai
Mark Dean Veca
Martha Rich
Matt Kimura
Maxx242
Maya Hayuk
Melinda Read
Michael Muller
Michelle Valigura
Michelle Waters
Mike Ski
Morgan Slade
Munk One
Nathan Fischer
Neko
Oliver Sutter
PaperMonster
Patty Earp
Priscilla Iezzi
Rachael Dzikonski
Rene Gagnon
Renee Lawter
Retna
Richard Colman
Ryan Jacob Smith
Shaunna Peterson
Shepard Fairey
Six Gun Drums
Skullphone
Steven Daily
Tara McPherson
Teresa Valencia
Tiffany Liu
Tim Biskup
Tim Rusmisel
Travis Lampe
Travis Louie
UrbanMedium
Vince Chan
XVALA
Zoltron

Moon Over Biloxi

2010-07-27T19:14:00Z

The title of this print “Moon Over Biloxi” is a tribute to the Dead Kennedy’s song “Moon Over Marin”. In 1984 I picked up maybe my 4th punk record which was the 2nd Dead Kennedy’s album “Plastic Surgery Disasters”. The album is a great listen all the way through and includes some blistering tunes like “Riot” and “Bleed For Me” laced with social commentary. The surprise song though is “Moon Over Marin”… detractors have called it the Dead Kennedy’s “U2″ song, but I disagree. “Moon Over Marin” is more melodic than most DK, but juxtaposed with the darkness of the lyrics, the song evokes a powerful sense of existential melancholy. I think the concept that struck me, and stuck with me, is that our disrespect of each other and the planet may doom us , but things will continue without us. I think it is healthy to recognize impermanence, but also to appreciate the value of the ephemeral. Moonlight, real or electric, will probably be around, but what it will be casting light on is the real question. There will always be a moon over Biloxi.
-Shepard

Prints will ship within 10 to 15 days from the date of your order.

A portion of the proceeds go to the NRDC. Click for more to hear the Dead Kennedy’s song.

“Moon Over Marin”

The crowded future stings my eyes
I still find time to exercise
In uniform with two white stripes

Unlock my section of the sand
It’s fenced off to the water’s edge
I clamp a gasmask on my head

[Chorus]
On my beach at night
Bathe in my moonlight

Another tanker’s hit the rocks
Abandoned to spill out its guts
The sand is laced with sticky glops

O’ Shimmering moonlight sheen upon
The waves and water clogged with oil
White gases steam up from the soil

[Chorus]

I squash dead fish between my toes
Try not to step on any bones
I turn around and I go home

I slip back through my basement door
Switch off all that I own below
Dive in my scalding wooden tub

My own beach at night
Electric Moonlight

There will always be a moon
Over Marin

18 x 24″ Screen Print, Signed and Numbered Edition of 400 (Cream) and 200 (White). Limit 1 per person/household, $50 each.

AZ Immigration Law Email Response

2010-07-27T00:27:28Z

Dear Emailer,
Thanks for your note and support of my clothing line. I guess you and I have different concerns and opinions. Just because a majority of people support something does not make it right. The majority of the country supported slavery, segregation, and not allowing women or blacks to vote at various times. Yes, I need to make enough money to survive, but my business endeavors are secondary to my stance on human rights. In fact, I use my business to finance my art, which is often political. I think how we make and spend money can be very political, actually, almost every decision we make has political repercussions. I take a stand on issues I believe in despite the possible resulting harm to my business. The immigration issue is complex, but what I think is important is compassion. I see no difference between immigrating here for a better life as a Latin American now, or a European 200 or 300 years ago. Racial profiling has obvious potential for abuse by law enforcement, and tearing apart families is never the right solution. I’m not advocating illegal immigration or lawlessness. I’m opposed to abuses of basic human rights and liberties for all people. If these rights for immigrants are not supported, there may be a situation in the future that may disqualify YOU from those basic rights.
-Shepard
______________________________________

From: Emailer
Date: July 24, 2010 4:58:56 AM PDT
Subject: [Obey Giant Contact Form] General Inquiries

I run a business, too, and I think it’s foolish to mix your personal views with your professional image. Lashing out against the AZ law on your business website was a poor choice. Over 50% of the county supports this law. It will likely cost you business. Stick to what you know–making t-shirts. Nobody cares what their t-shirt manufacturer thinks about immigration. Sorry to sound harsh, but I like your clothes and if you want to stay in business you need to exercise some discretion.
- Emailer

GIANT vs. Giant Round 2

2010-07-26T18:48:32Z

OK, just so you drama queens know… GIANT is a friend of mine and was invited to do this piece. Sorry to deny you the joy of spreading juicy “beef” gossip, but I’m sure your quest for juicy “beef” can be satisfied elsewhere. Enjoy!
- Shepard

Racial Profiling Ahead Billboard

2010-07-23T17:25:08Z

We can’t stop now. We must keep fighting this unjust law that will effectively institutionalize discrimination against the Latino community. Proceeds from the “We Are Human” print go to immigration reform organizations such as the one below! Please take a second and support.

Brave New Foundation’s Cuéntame asks:
If you can help us raise $10,000 by Monday, July 26, Cuéntame will purchase a billboard on a populated street in Phoenix showing the law for what it really is. The powerful line for the billboard has already been chosen on Facebook by the members of Cuéntame. Now all we need is your support. Please help us in our next step to send a giant message to the Arizona government.

Brave New Foundation’s Cuéntame, has made major headlines this week for its video interview with Arizona Police Officer Paul Dobsonspeaking out about draconian Arizona anti-immigration bill, SB1070. Officer Dobson is now under investigation for exercising his first amendment right to speak freely about the real effects of the law:

“I know people will not call the police in case of a real emergency. This law is purely racist and solely focused on Latinos. In my opinion, SB 1070 violates equal protection under the law.” Paul Dobson, Patrol Officer, Arizona

We are making a difference and our voices are being heard by hundreds of thousands of people across the country. Cuéntame’s work with Officer Dobson has been featured in USA Today, Arizona Republic, New York Daily News, FoxNews and more!

CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT!

Update: Jim Houser x The Homebody

2010-07-23T01:51:55Z

If you missed the opening of Jim’s show be sure to stop by Subliminal and experience the transformation of a gallery into a work of art. Check out the video and get a little insight to Jim’s artwork and take notice of the music which was written and recorded by Jim himself. If you love it like we do you can own the music – Available at Subliminal Projects!

Juxtapoz Interview featured HERE!
http://www.juxtapoz.com/24924-jim-houser-an-interview-with-the-homebody

JIM HOUSER RECORD
Package includes a six-track 10″ vinyl record and 16 page full-color booklet featuring images and artwork by Jim Houser. All songs written and recorded by Houser between August of 2009 and January of 2010.
Get your record here: http://www.subliminalprojects.com/main/store/9/collectables/

Jim Houser prints also available!
http://www.subliminalprojects.com/main/store/7/prints/

Music Written and Recored by Jim Houser

Moon Over Biloxi (White)

2010-07-22T19:11:06Z

18 x 24″ Screen Print, Signed and Numbered Edition of 200, $50.

For Release on the Full Moon, July 27, 2010 at a random time. Limit one per person/household.

A portion of the proceeds go to the NRDC.

OBEY x San Diego x MCA SD

2010-07-19T21:52:48Z

The crew and I went down to San Diego last week to do some murals and attend the “Viva La Revolucion” show at SD MoCA. With the help of Nic, Dan, and Spencer, I did my largest all painted mural of the Burmese Monk at 30 feet high. We also did a huge mural on 5th in Hillcrest, and a couple stenciled large icons around. It was a nice way to return to San Diego after having to deal with a good bit of police harassment when I lived there from 96-01. I was on probation there until recently for putting one sticker up! Almost all the artists in the show did outdoor works, which is a big deal for the very clean and conservative city of San Diego. Of course, the younger crowd which the city seems to ignore, was enthusiastically supportive and showed up to the museum opening in record numbers. Maybe San Diego will recognize the positive impact a show like this makes upon the creative community and community at large. Check it out if you are in SD. Thanks to Pedro Alonzo, curator of the exhibition for his hard work, and to all my SD friends for coming to say hello. Photos by Geoff Hargadon.
-Shepard

Viva La Revolucion: A Dialogue with the Urban Landscape
July 18, 2010 – Jan 02, 2011
MCASD Downtown, Jacobs Building

View the Exhibition and Other Outdoor Installations at http://www.mcasd.org/vivalarevolucion/

By The Sword Skateboards

2010-07-13T17:37:25Z

I met Jason Filipow at a skateboard contest in Charleston SC in 1986. The Charleston skate scene was very small and a new skater on the scene with a unique style and bag of tricks stood out. I noticed Jason’s creativity as a skateboarder immediately, and after realizing he was a year behind me at the same school, we became skateboard comrade’s and friends. At that stage, skateboarding and the art and music culture associated with it, shaped our lives, and provided a DIY escape from southern conservatism and the usual high school social system. Jason and I worked on a ‘zine he created called “Streetscribe”, doing photography and paste-up design. We both made stencils and tee shirts. We have stayed friends and continue to collaborate, in many ways built upon the rebellious creative foundation skateboarding provided. Jason and I both admired an innovative skateboarder named Mike Vallely who emerged from the under-represented East coast scene in the mid 80′s. I’m very happy that Jason and Mike have teamed up on a skateboard company that embodies the Do It Yourself ethos that shaped all three of us. Check it out.

-Shepard

Mike Vallely Announces the Creation of By The Sword Skateboards

Los Angeles, CA–July 13, 2010–Legendary professional skateboarder, Mike Vallely has created a new, independent skateboard company, By The Sword Skateboards. Vallely has partnered with artist and long-time skateboarder, Jason Filipow, who will serve as Creative Director for this start-up brand. The two have worked together on a number of projects in the past, but this is the first time Vallely and Filipow have combined their collective talents and passions for skateboarding.

As a co-sponsor of Vallely’s upcoming ‘Glory Bound Tour’, By The Sword Skateboards is debuting their first product offering, a deck entitled “DIY or DIE”. The graphic, designed by Filipow, speaks to the inspiring and empowering abilities of authentic, do-it-yourself initiative. The boards feature a bold, three-color graphic, which have been manufactured and screenprinted in the USA. The “DIY or DIE” board will be ridden by Vallely during the tour and will be available for purchase at each of the tour stops.

The ‘Glory Bound Tour’, which is also sponsored by Good Fight Entertainment, Landshark Wheels, Fuel TV and ShredorDie.com, features Vallely skateboarding alongside Duane Peters, Bill Danforth, Kristian Svitak and Cyril Jackson. It is scheduled to make more than 25 stops at skateparks across the United States from July 18, 2010 through August 18, 2010.

Mike Vallely, also known as Mike V, has been an active and relevant professional skateboarder since 1987. He has played a defining role in the evolution of street skating, skateboard tricks, shapes and graphics. He has traveled the world as an ambassador for skateboarding, asserting the authenticity of skateboarding as a creative pursuit and a form of self expression. He sees this new brand as an extension of his work as a professional skater.

Vallely states, “The DIY spirit that has driven me as a skateboarder and as a professional skater hasn’t always lined up through the years with the reality of who my sponsors happen to be. It’s always been something that has weighed heavily on my mind. My own independence in skateboarding has been crippled at times by the demands and whims of my sponsors. I’m just not interested in that game anymore. It’s simply time for me to put my money where my mouth is and to truly do my own thing.”

“Once I decided I had to do this brand, and that I had to do it independently, it was important for me to find the right artist and designer to help shape this vision. I had to look no further than Jason Filipow.”

“Through my years of knowing and working with Jason, he and I have really connected. In many ways, By The Sword is just an actualization of the conversations Jason and I have had about skateboarding and how much we love and value it. To us, skateboarding is still a sacred, ritual act. We want our products to speak of and represent these ideals.”

Jason Filipow, also known as JRF, has been an underground creative force within the art and design world for many years. With a long history of involvement in creative pursuits, Filipow began designing and making his own stickers, t-shirts, stencils and ‘zines as early as 1985. A passionate and dedicated skateboarder himself, Filipow has followed Vallely’s career from the moment Vallely burst onto the scene by appearing on the August 1986 cover of Thrasher Magazine.

Filipow recalls, “When Mike appeared on the cover of Thrasher, I identified with him immediately. Here was a fellow East Coast kid, who was boldly pioneering his own type of skating; one that didn’t rely upon the inaccessible, and sometimes nonexistent, terrain of backyard ramps and pools. His skating thrived within the sprawling, suburban wasteland of shopping mall parking lots, curbs and walls so familiar to the skateboarders outside of California.”

As Creative Director, Filipow employs a variety of aesthetics and techniques to help bring the brand to life visually. The “DIY or DIE” deck is his first completely independent, and widely-distributed, skateboard design. He states, “Skateboard graphics are such a crucial ingredient to the act of skateboarding. They must possess that unique visual and visceral punch that gets you stoked and begs to be sessioned.”

“Working together with Mike to forge the foundation of By The Sword has been an amazing experience. Starting it completely on our own has been challenging, but the reward of retaining complete creative control makes it all worthwhile. We have the freedom to guide our brand and our products in any direction we wish. It’s that kind of freedom that really speaks to the spirit of skateboarding.”

Since 2004, Filipow has lived and worked in Los Angeles, balancing a workload of commercial design and fine art. As former Creative at Studio Number One, Filipow’s client list included Honda, Adidas, Nike/Air Jordan, Fox Pictures, Swindle Magazine, Obey Clothing, Independent Film Channel, Dangerbird Records and Fender Guitars Custom Shop.

Currently working as a freelance designer, Filipow has most recently worked with House Industries, Six Stair Productions, Royal Elastics, Obey Giant Art, Poster Child Prints, Hurley International, and RRock Enterprises.

About By The Sword Skateboards

By The Sword Skateboards, formed in 2010 by Mike Vallely and Jason Filipow, is an independently owned and operated company. Their mission is to directly inspire and empower young people through the profound and positive influence of skateboarding. By The Sword features decks, apparel and related products that are designed and created exclusively in the USA. The company is based out of Los Angeles, California and distributed by Regulator Distribution in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

For more information on By The Sword, visit them online at www.ByTheSwordSkateboards.com.

Contact Info:

Jason Filipow
Creative Director
By The Sword Skateboards
JRF@ByTheSwordSkateboards.com