• ART,  CULTURE

    Ben Kimura and the Art of Gay Visibility in Japan “さぶ / SABU” Magazine Covers

    The covers of さぶ / SABU from 1991 feel like quiet acts of courage. Bold, intimate, and unapologetically sensual, they exist at the intersection of art, identity, and underground publishing. Created by Ben Kimura, these images are not just magazine covers. They are historical markers. At a time when queer representation was still largely hidden or coded, SABU offered visibility. Not diluted. Not softened. Fully formed.

  • ART

    Monster Mashtober by Samantha Mash

    Meet Samantha Mash, a talented illustrator hailing from Northern California and currently residing in the enigmatic landscapes of Northern Oregon. With a rich cultural heritage rooted in her Jewish descent, Samantha infuses a unique perspective into her artwork, bringing depth and authenticity to her creations. As October rolls around, Samantha unveils a collection of illustrations that transcend the ordinary. Her works delve into the mysterious and haunting creatures, capturing the essence of the season with a distinctive flair. Each piece is a journey into the unknown, where shadows dance with purpose and intrigue. Take a glimpse below to witness Samantha Mash’s mastery at play. The intricate details in her illustrations…

  • ART,  CULTURE

    “Flip Flop” Series by Artist Allister Lee

    A simply delightful series of illustrations by the talented artist Allister Lee, aptly titled “Flip Flop,” captures a charming selection of throwback vintage dollar store sandals discovered in a myriad of locations throughout California, including the vibrant Chinatown, San Francisco and beyond. Each playful illustration is a masterful representation of these everyday objects, expertly capturing their unique character and charm while pulling on our nostalgic heart strings. “I like finding graphic inspiration in unlikely places and I found these ubiquitous Chinatown staples to be a great mix of quirk and wonk as subject matter.” – Allister See the series Flip Flop below:

  • ART

    Art by Cristi Lopez

    Chicago-based artist Cristi Lopez studies the feminine form in an illustrative tinted series. “My work chronicles a life-long journey contending with mental health disorders. I use the human figure as a means of externalizing the covert aspects of mental illness. Amidst the chaos, absurdity, and violence of their situation, the figures remain strong, nurturing, and tranquil. In my intensely personal, allegorical imagery, I aim to remind others struggling that their painful endeavors, in their varied manifestations, are ultimately of hope.” -CL See the series below:

  • ART

    Paintings by Miranda Zimmerman

    Artist Miranda Zimmerman also known as faunwood illustrates and paints mystical creatures and scenarios that translate beautifully to products, tattoos and more. See some selected works below: