"Whole Thing" December 12th & 13th @ The Monroe Center in Hoboken.

Artifications Presents: "Whole Thing", A SHUA Group production. A modern dance performance will take place in Room C304 of the Monroe Center for the Arts in Hoboken, NJ, on Friday December 12^th and Saturday December 13, 2008. Join us for both performances on Friday and Saturday evening at 8pm (Doors open at 7:30pm).

"Whole Thing" is a 50 minute dance production with live instrumentation integrating both movement and action right into the score. Live musicians are integrated into the performance and the physical space as much as the dancers.

"Whole Thing" was choreographed by Joshua Bisset and Laura Quattrocchi of the SHUA Group based in Jersey City, in collaboration with Brooklyn based composer Stephan Cooper. "Whole Thing" is funded in part by a grant from the American Music Center, a Choreographer/Composer grant.

Artifications is a Hoboken based Arts Organization, headed by Roland Ramos whose recent projects include the 2008 Hudson County Art Slam, "Local Works" Art Show, Hoboken Harvest of the Homeless, and assisted in programming the 2008 Hoboken Artist Studio Tour.

LIT -- alt. SoHo Showcase/Party - SAT NOV 22 8p @ 100 grand

OMG!!!!!!!!

Bill Young & Colleen Thomas are at it again!!!!!

8:00pm, Saturday, Nov 22nd, 2008 will bring a brand new modern dance performance from this exquisite group of dancers and artists. In this group, the words "dancers" and "artists" are certainly interchangeable.

I hope all of you who are interested will alert me ASAP if you would like to attend, whats guaranteed to be an amazing evening with me. If you have ever heard me gush about this event, this is your opportunity to see this for yourself.

BT & CT's intuitive style very much changed my outlook on the arts, and continues to fuel my creative viewpoints. At my first performance, i felt that someone had opened up the door on a large party that had been raging for years, and that I had never known about. I really felt like i had my eyesight restored after a long blindness.

The performance will take place @ 100 Grand St, in NYC with VERY LIMITED SEATING!!!!!


I hope to share this feeling with you.

HHH // OCt. 25th Noon - 6:00pm

You are invited to the 2^nd annual Hoboken Harvest for the Homeless!!

On Saturday, October 25th at Symposia Book Store on Washington Ave in Hoboken, NJ, a revolving stage of 14 local musicians will perform from noon till 6:00pm raising awareness, supplies and funds for Hoboken's 3rd Street shelter. Over $500 was raised last year for the homeless of Hoboken along with countless bangs of needed supplies. Please click here to see of list of items the shelter needs for the upcoming winter.

IMPORTANT: We are seeking volunteers to assist in manning the donation table in fron of symposia. We are also looking for volunteers to help set up. This requires assistance begining at 10:30am.

Below you will find a list of participating musicians for the 2nd annual Hoboken Harvest for the Homeless.

Hoboken Harvest for the Homeless
12:00pm - Kevin So (www.kevinso.com)
12:30pm - Mike rocket (www.mikerocket.com)
1:00pm – Tracy Thorne(www.myspace.com/tracyleighthorne)
1:30pm - Glenn Coleman (www.glencoleman.net)
2:00pm - Karen Davis.(www.myspace.com/boomslang)
2:20pm - Joe Pla (of Clueless) (www.myspace.com/clueless)
2:40pm - Las Vandelays (www.lasvandelays.com)
3:10pm – Jon D'Angelo (www.myspace.com/jondangelomusic)
3:40pm - Kieron Sullivan (www.jak-tripa.com)
4:10pm - Liquor Talking (www.myspace.com/theliquortalking)
4:40pm - Michelle Vecchionne (www.michellev.com)
5:10pm - Marc Giannotti (www.myspace.com/endofoctober)
5:40pm - Carol Lester (www.carollester.com)
Join me @ 143 Columbus place in Jersey City for a bumpin After party with DJ Purple Stuff (AKA: Kevin Spyker) @ 9:00pm.

HHH was created by Roland Ramos, a Hoboken musician, philanthropist, art curator, & event organizer.
"live for yourself, you will live in vain, live for others and you will live again, in the kingdom of JAH, man shall reign: Pass it on" Robert Nesta Marley OM

"LOCAL WORKS" Friday October 17th @ Shades in Hoboken

YEAH, WE'RE BACK!!!!!!

"Local Works" art opening takes place at Shades in Hoboken, and asks 5$ suggested donation to continue Artifications endevours. Dress to impress. Plenty of parking in the back. Shades is just steps from the 9th street light rail stop in Hoboken.


"Local Works" Is an art show dedicated to the artistic creations by two notable local artists, Hank Yaghooti, and Will Suarez.

Their artistic styles blend colors and styles in a unique way that is a treat all of Hoboken is bound to enjoy.

Hank Yaghooti is very active in the arts, and works mainly through his website www.isitandthink.com. in addition to being a talented artist, Hank has proven himself as a talented musician, playing with the band Bonbomb.

Will Suarez, a local educator caught my attention with his business card. the unique design incorporated a variety of mediums, while maintaining simplicity. Through the years, Will has continued his work in the arts. A smattering of his talent can be viewed on his website.

Musical events include live performances by local Favorites, Cecilia Celeste (Acoustic rock), and Outstanding reggae rockers Hyphen-One and Daylow (Organic hip-hop, reggae).

Beginning @ 7:30pm, doors will open with DJ HAMZA holding down the rhythm with his eclectic styles. Its great to be reunited with this word-class DJ.

OCT 10th: DUB PROOF @ SHADES

Asbury Parks Original Dub band Dub Proof will be performing @ Shades in Hoboken, located @ 720 Monroe Street, in Hoboken NJ.

There is plenty of parking available in the back of the building. The 9th street Light Rail stop will deposit you in eye-shot of the center.

Doors open @ 7:30pm, and the band goes on @ 10:00pm. DJ Double R holds down the sound with intermittent drink specials announced.

You can visit Dub Proof @ http://www.myspace.com/dubproof

12th Annual D.U.M.B.O. Art Under The Bridge Festival

September 26 - 28, 2008

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!

The Dumbo Arts Center (DAC) is pleased to present the D.U.M.B.O. ART UNDER THE BRIDGE FESTIVAL,™ sponsored by Current TV, now in its 12th year. Don't miss Dumbo, Brooklyn, when it becomes a multi-sensory art arena, FREE and open to all.

Over the FESTIVAL weekend, art will be happening everywhere: streets, sidewalks, storefronts, elevators, lobbies, the water, the waterfront, parks, nooks, crannnies, on the NY Water Taxi, and more. Along with the 65+ new public art projects, over 100 local artists will open their studios to the public and at the new Galapagos Art Space, video_dumbo will feature a non-stop program of cutting edge video art from NYC and around the world.

The FESTIVAL presents art that breaks the white cube: art that is touchable, accessible and interactive. The appeal is universal: for many of the anticipated 150,000 visitors, the FESTIVAL will be their first encounter with art and artists.

“Current and the Dumbo Arts Center create vibrant platforms for self expression, so this partnership was a natural for us,” said Joshua Katz, President of Marketing, Current Media. “We are thrilled to sponsor the Art Under the Bridge Festival and I look forward to enjoying the art and some funnel cake on the streets of Brooklyn.”

DAC, the big impact small non-profit, has been making the annual 3-day event possible since it was founded by local artists in1997. As New York City's creative edge is increasingly threatened by skyrocketing rents, DAC is committed to preserving what is possibly the last urban oasis of its kind: a site where young artists can test their ideas in the public domain, have unprecedented freedom and play. Visual artists have a long tradition of harnessing New York City as their canvas, seeing no boundaries between studio and street. The FESTIVAL allows artists to act upon that impulse by providing them with a place where the unpredictable, the spontaneous and the downright weird can still happen. Save the dates and join us!

Keep your eyes peeled for more information, coming soon! FESTIVAL TAKE-OFF: 7 PM on Friday, September 26th through Sunday, September 28th evening. Volunteers needed - great experience & free T-shirts! Please email gallery@dumboartscenter.org for info. For press images, please contact:

Dumbo Arts Center
30 Washington Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
T. 718.694.0831
gallery@dumboartscenter.org
www.dumboartscenter.org

Dumbo Arts Center (DAC) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit contemporary arts organization, located in Dumbo, Brooklyn, New York. DAC is supported in part by public funds from: the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the New York State Council on the Arts. DAC receives additional funding from: The Milton and Sally Avery Arts Foundation, The Cowles Charitable Trust, The Greenwall Foundation, The Greenwich Collection Ltd., The Joan Mitchell Foundation, The Lily Auchincloss Foundation, The Robert Lehman Foundation, The Dedalus Foundation, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts and the Foundation for Contemporary Arts. DAC's gallery and office space is generously donated by the Walentas Family and Two Trees Management Co. LLC.

About

Launched August 1, 2005, Current is the first fully integrated 24/7 online and television network that helps users determine the news and information that is relevant to them. Honored with an Emmy® Award for its interactive television service in 2007, Current connects young adults with what’s going on in their world through its unique blend of citizen journalism and viewer participation, offering programming and content that’s authentic, often surprising and consistently compelling. Current pioneered the television industry’s leading model of interactive viewer created content (VC2) that comprises roughly one-third of Current’s on-air broadcast. The network has also created innovative advertising models, including Viewer Created Ad Messages (VCAMS).

Current is now viewed in the U.S., U.K. and Italy in more than 58 million households through distribution partners Comcast (Channel 107 nationwide), Time Warner (nationwide), DirecTV (channel 366 nationwide), Dish Network (channel 196 nationwide), BSkyB (channel 193), Virgin Media Cable (channel 155) and Sky Italia (channel 130). For more information, please visit the Web site: www.current.com.

2nd Annual Hoboken Harvest for the Homeless

Hello,

It feels great to give back to your community. Please take some time to familiarize yourself with details regarding the 2nd Annual Hoboken Harvest for the Homeless.

Who: Roland Ramos, Symposia Bookstore, Hoboken Homeless Shelter
What: 2nd Annual Hoboken Harvest for the Homeless
Where: Symposia Bookstore: 510 Washingotn St.Click here for Map
When: Saturday, October 25th 2008. Noon till 6:30pm
How: Participating performers will be alloted a 20 minute performance period. There will be donation collection set up in front of Symposia book store and another one set up inside. Will Suarez, a talented jersey City artist, has offered to create a flyer for this event for us. Flyers will be created and posted all throughout Hoboken and Jersey City and be also e used in a large email/myspace/facebook campaign. Additionally, Balloons with HHH information and flyer will be strategically placed on Washington St. on the morning of.
A Small PA system will be set up in order to get an even sound. Can donations will also be accepted and encouraged. After the last performer completes their set, we shall breakdown the stage, and bring donations to the 3rd street Homeless shelter in Hoboken.

you guys should feel very good about your involvement in this event. you are directly making a change in someones life. if you can not perform, please take a few minutes to come down and support.

Entertainment Limbo: Too Many Eggs; Too Few Baskets.

Wow,
So there is a great Jam session ready to go.
Drums, Amps, Speakers, PA equipment and the like just ready to be tapped with a "tap" on the shoulder. This is something that was wildly successful @ Geronimo's in Teaneck for years. I guess I have to remember that this is no Teaneck; I am in Hudson County, where there is mad competition for peoples attention. You can throw a rock and hit an event out here. that is not to say that the market is saturated.

I believe the market here still has room for musical growth. This was the same area that a JC council memebr wanted to make the "Live Music Section" of Jersey City. The little space by Grove street and a little west from the old 111 Arts Building.

I have mad events going on in October, and I am still in limbo with alot of them. this si the downside of putting all my creative eggs in one basket.

I have tons of eggs. I just need more baskets. I will make sure I only put one or two eggs in each basket.

RR

Original Good: Stone Pony (8/30) Joshuas in Woodstock (8/31)

Original Good is a collaboration between Roland Ramos, Jay Crystall, & James Mongan.

Jay Crystall and I will be performing for Drums for Disabilities benefit, organized by Amber Blues.
We go on kinda early, but it will be a great time for those who will be there. I am excited for this gig. I have never played the Stone Pony, and for all the mystique surrounding the venue, I am really looking forward to contributing to the folklore. EVERYONE, TO THE BAR!

All three of us will be performing 6:00pm @ Joshua's on Sunday, 8/31. 51 Tinker St in Woodstock, NY. It promises to be a great way to get the weekend into full gear. they have awesome Tapas kinds of foods, drizzled with olive oil, and set in the most picturesque setting.

I am looking forward to a weekend of Just music. Life is tough, and it takes a toll on you. It re-emphasizes the importance of downtime. When you are in the middle of a song, the song is in the middle of you.

Maladjusted. Misappropriated Open s Sunday @ 6:30pm

A tire iron. A cracked safe.
Couldn't you murder a cup of tea right about now?

A new play by Derek O'Connor

PERFORMANCE DATES
Sunday, August 10th @ 6:30pm
Thursday, August 14th @ 5:30pm
Tuesday, August 19th @ 3pm
Thursday, August 21st @ 9:30pm
Saturday, August 23rd @ 9:15pm
Running time: 70 minutes

STARRING
Laurence Lowry* and Anna Nugent*

DIRECTED BY Jack Halpin
STAGE MANAGER Judy Nunez

TICKETS $15
Call 212.279.4488 or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE


LOCATION
The Schaeberle Studio Theater
41 Park Row, New York, NY 10038.
0A

Nearest Subways: 2/3, 4/5/6; A/C; N/R, J/Z.
Parking: Outdoor Hospital Parking Lot (Entrance on Beekman Street at William Street)
From NJ: Walking distance from the WTC PATH station

View Larger Map

*Appearing Courtesy of Actors' Equity Association

ABOUT THE SHOW
Ireland. Present day. A security guard bound to a chair; a primary school teacher held for interrogation. Two seemingly rational individuals face extreme circumstances and crumble under the pressure. Featuring tour-de-force performances by international actors, Laurence Lowry* and Anna Nugent*.

Maladjusted. Misappropriated. is a dark and witty dual portrait by Derek O'Connor, acclaimed Irish author and Editor of Irish pop culture blog, The Chancer (www.thechancer.ie) and former Editor of Blogorrah. O'Connor also serves as Director of the Darklight Film Festival, Ireland's premier festival for filmmakers, animators and artists whose work explores the convergence of art, film and technology.


For show updates, please visit www.arthouseproductions.org or call (201) 915-9911

***SUMMER MUSIC PARTY THIS FRIDAY***

LOCATION
Shades of Hoboken

720 Monroe St., Hoboken, NJ
(between 7th/8th Streets)
Free Parking! Air Conditioning!
Steps from the 9th St. Light Rail!

MAP

LINEUP

DJ mEgan &
George "Soul" Fernandez

SOME WOMAN

Original Performance Monologue

CLUELESS
Folk Rock, 8:00-8:30pm

DUB PROOF
Dub Reggae, 9:00-10:00pm

LLOYD UNITED
Ukulele Pub Rock
10:30-10:45pm

WELLBABY
Experimental Pop and Shenanigans, 10:45-11:30pm

RAFFLE PRIZES TO INCLUE

Pair of tickets to our new play, MALADJUSTED. MISAPPROPRIATED.

Gift certificates

Pair of tickets to Art House Productions' 2009 SNOW BALL

GOLD PASS to all Art House Productions' events for ONE YEAR!!

WFMU underground rock gift set

Books and writing sets

Tshirts and more!

PLUS Irish drink specials!

Thank you for supporting your local arts organization and our efforts to bring fresh, exciting theater to viewers like you!

Big thanks to the MONROE CENTER and to ROLAND RAMOS for making this event possible! More big thanks to the BANDS, DJs and PERFORMERS for donating their time and talents to the cause!

BREAK TIME

Wow!
My recent experience as the organizer/curator for POLITrix has left me very disillusioned.
In other words, I was disappointed at finding out the reality of this week-long Art show did not match my ideals.

It was hard work dealing with all the real-time problems that seemed to come out of no-where. The "Red Tape Monologues" were canceled the day before they were slated to start due to unforeseen issues. How embarrassing. I have never had to cancel a show before, and I loathe the idea that I had to do it at all.

I love working with artist's. Like anything, its not always smooth sailing. I beleive in protecting the integrity of the artists vision 100%. There have been some experiences recently that have left me gasping for air.

Some important lessons: 1) I can not do this by myself. 2) Humility can be viewed as something to be exploited. 3) Nothing in this world is truly free. 4) There are always forces working against you. 5) Honesty is not always reciprocated. 6) Extricate yourself: Never be a pawn in other peoples games, let them fight it out while you watch. 7) Don't say nothing to nobody about your business. 8) Press releases never work if they are distributed the day before. 9) Nobody cares when you do well, they only care when you screw up. 10) If you make it look easy, people will take you, and what you do, for granted. 11) "Sorry I missed your last show, I'll def come to the next one" means "you have to call me 3 times and write a personalized email for me to come" 12) Judy is an amazing and resourceful person who very much saved my ass, and hung an amazing show with me.

I am taking a break from organizing any art events until after the "Hoboken Artist Studio Tour" is complete. The next show I curate has to excite me. There is no point in doing anything for any other reason.

Friday July 25th: "The Red Tape Monologues"

One incredible night of performance where theater and political conscienceness collide. ONE NIGHT ONLY!! DON'T MISS IT! Details below

"The Red Tape Monologues"
Who: Franceso Paladino, Kris Van Nest, & Some Woman
What: A Collection of Monologues using politics and political issues as their backdrop.
Where: The Monroe Center for the Arts
720 Monroe St, Gallery E200
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Free Parking & Steps from the 9th Street Light Rail Station.
When: Friday, July 25th 2008. 7:00pm - 8:00pm
How: Tickets are $5 and can be purchased At the door, or at the top of this screen.

POLITrix: Art to Reflect the Current Political Climate

Hey everyone,

The POLITrix Group Art show is coming together Nicely.

Below you will find a copy of the official press release.

Artists’ Message:

LOUD AND CLEAR in the Year of Election

POLITrix Provides a Political Barometer in 2008

Saturday July 19, 2008 will be the opening night for POLITrix, a week-long, group art show taking place at the Monroe Center for the Arts in Hoboken, NJ. Choosing to converge on Hoboken, 28 artists from Hudson County and beyond have contributed work expressing their views of the current political landscape. This exciting group exhibit will continue through Saturday, July 26th.

Opening festivities are free and will take place in Gallery E200 at 6:00pm. Opening night guests include DJ SAKA, & The Dub-Poet: Infinity. Festivities will continue in Shades Lounge with live entertainment starting @ 10:30pm.

Additional events taking place during the week long exhibition at the Monroe Center include:

· Tuesday July 22, 2008: Shades Lounge & Bar will host the Rachel Phillips Dixie Land Jazz Band @ 7:30pm – 8:30pm. Admission is $5. Come enjoy drinks and dancing in a lavish setting

· Friday July 25, 2008: A collection of politically-oriented theater pieces named “The Red Tape Monologues” will be performed in Gallery E200 of the Monroe Center. Doors will open @ 7:00pm and the performance will begin @ 7:30pm, with open gallery hours to follow. Admission is $5

“It’s a charged political climate” says Roland Ramos, head curator of the POLITrix exhibition. “There are so many strong feelings related to this waning administration. In many ways, artists express the sentiments of the world.” Amy Bauer, co-curator for POLITrix says, “We are also providing a valuable outlet for artists”.

POLITrix is a week long art exhibition showcasing the works of a myriad of contemporary artists.

It is important to note that POLITrix will not focus on local politics, but should instead be viewed as a political barometer in this year of election.

The Monroe Center for the Arts is located at 720 Monroe St, Hoboken, NJ 07030.

For directions visit www.Monroecenter.com.

Francesco Paladino: The Mighty MC

The Original Francesco Paladino is a welcome addition to the "The Rock Photography of LDO" As Host of the evenings festivities, Francesco brings his talent as an entertainer to all participating guests of the evening. Catch him on a new series called "The F Word", where he comically explores pop culture, art, and the entertainment of human reaction.



“Paladino’s work is charming, witty, and completely disturbing...”
-Time Out New York

www.francescopaladino.com

Angel Vivaldi: 8:30pm Friday June 27th

In today's music scene where countless bands are effortlessly duplicated- Angel Vivaldi stands out as a unique and notable artist. With a sound and image all his own, his blend of mainstream hard rock and progressive guitar instrumental music have captured the ears of many who would have never given instrumental music a listen. Angel also serves as the lead guitarist for Black Market Hero which features members of FLAW and 40 Below Summer.

www.angelvivaldi.net

Michelle Vecchione: 9:30pm Friday, June 27th

Carving out her own interpretation of the Blues, Michelle Vecchione grinds us through her life experiences with a confluence of artful writing, deliciously dark vocals, and an exceptional mastery of lyricism. Combining Americana, Blues and Acoustic Roots-Rock with powerful vocals, she has successfully fashioned a style that is reminiscent of the understated vocal passion of Peggy Lee and wrapped it in the fire and fury of Janis Joplin.
www.michellev.com

Feature: Universal Rebel10:30

Universal Rebel is a Hip Hop Dub Band composed of four prominent bandleaders from the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. ADEO, founder & emcee, has opened up for Kanye West, Common, Black Eyed Peas, Talib Kweli, Ludacris, Wyclef, The Roots, Julian Marley, Luciano, and an array of other artists. Adeo has teamed with Rich "Chato" Collins on the low end theory. Complimented by the electronic blues stylings of Comack (of‘MurphDog’) on keys. Steve-Z aka Humanoid of No use for Humans , human DJ, provides the beats & Rhythm. Our live show consists of Multi-Media Video Projection that features independent art, video, graffiti, comical anecdotes, and tons of eye candy. The Music can’t be put in a box but you’re guaranteed Rock steady Rhythms, beats, & Wisdom.

www.urebelini.org

ARTIFICATION 1.0: Friday June 27th, 2008 7:30pm

ARTIFICATION PRESENTS

The Rock Photography of Laura Desantis-Olsson

From 7.30pm to The Midnight Hour, Friday, June 27, at Shades, Bar and Restaurant, located at Monroe Center, 720 Monroe Street, Hoboken, NJ. Laura Desantis-Olsson will exhibit her stunning Rock Photography accompanied by a collage of music.

Disturbing and intriguing, her passion and talent give photography a dangerous, exciting cutting edge.

What you will experience is Olsson’s raw and naked, private emotions exhibited in a kinetic collection of large-scale photographs depicting the Rock experience through the heart of a fan. Her portraits are intimate, they challenge and provoke. She dares you to journey with her into uncharted territory.

Hosted by Francesco Paladino, Artification features musical guest, ‘Universal Rebel’. The band, fuses conscious lyrics and Hip-Hop. Additional musical performances by Michelle Vecchione and guitar virtuoso, Angel Vivaldi. Evening Music provided by DJ SAKA.

No Cover Charge. Parking at The Monroe Center is FREE.

For those wanting to prolong the experience, the show will provide additional viewing hours, Saturday, June 28^th, from 7.pm to Midnight at Shades of Hoboken

Contact: Roland Ramos

Roland.ramos77@gmail.com

Phone: 201 394 9891

ARTIFICATION: The Rock Photography of Laura Desantis-Olsson"

"4th & Jackson" Presents:
"The Rock Photography of Laura Desantis-Olsson"

Who: Laura Desantis-Olsson
What: Reception for Artist
Where: Shades of Hoboken. Monroe Center of the Arts. 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ
When: Friday, June 27th, 2008 7:30pm - Until the bar closes.


Come to Shades in Hoboken for a live musical celebration of Laura Desantis-Olsson's Rock Photography Exhibition. There will be a live Photo Session w/ LDO.

• Steps from 9th St Light Rail Station
• Free Parking
• Dress to Impress
• Stocked Cash bar

WE WANT TO KNOW WHO'S COMING!!!!!!
(If it looks big it IS BIG!)

AHP Presents "Sea Story" openeing Thursday June 12th

Art House Productions presents
an original play

SEA STORY

Val is down on her luck in Crabcake Bay. When she answers an ad promising adventure, a journey unfolds that will take her beyond the borders of imagination. A secret society of women, a busted ham radio, and mythological creatures come to life in this immersive theatrical experience, where the audience sits on board the ship!

PERFORMANCE DATES
June 12th – June 28th, 2008 @ 8:00pm (Thursdays - Saturdays)

TICKETS
$20 general admission
To purchase, visit www.arthouseproductions.org or call (201) 915-9911
Seating extremely limited! Buy your tickets today!

For group and senior rates, call (201) 915-9911
(Adult show, suitable for 15 yrs+)

STARRING
Maggie Cino, Katherine Damigos, Janice Ducate, Carlo Fiorletta, Christine Goodman*, Ron Leir, Judy Nunez, Malachy Orozco, Jen Ponton, David Ribyat, and Helene Taylor
*Appearing courtesy of Actors' Equity Association

DIRECTED BY Jack Halpin
WRITTEN BY Art House Productions
(Katherine Damigos, Christine Goodman, Jack Halpin, Richard Kirkwood, and Judy Nunez)
PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Carlo Fiorletta, Judy Nunez

LOCATION
Art House Productions
Hamilton Square, 1 McWilliams Place, 6th Fl., Jersey City, NJ
(SE Corner of Hamilton Park near Erie St./8th St.)


This event is made possible by Exeter Properties and Hamilton Square.
For more information, please visit www.livingonthepark.com.


www.arthouseproductions.org

Memorial Day: 6 Days Till "PhotoSkin"

Friday was reserved for the Murukami Exhibition @ the Brooklyn Museum.

From Hoboken, hub-central, I made my way to the Eastern Parkway/Brooklyn museum stop on the 3 Line, and was greeted with a lovely subway station full of art (Quite appropriate I would say given its proximity to the museum.)

Outside was the newly redesigned entrance of the museum. The glass and steel entrance make an imposing yet inviting presence.

The museum was filled with a wide aray of art. I also enjoyed they're collection of paintings detailing Brooklyn life in different areas. The Log-built homes of centuries ago have log since given way to the brick and mortar construction we see today as "Classic".

The Murakami exhibition admission was $10. It was worth the ticket price.

His sculptures are clean and colorful, successfully capturing the essence of Manga magazines of Mr. Murakami's youth.

The paintings were immense and amazing. I always found myself ducking down and getting close to the canvas in order to examine the paint lines. Precise and beautiful, his characters are disarming and inquisitive. The fact that most of his paintings are owned by different facilities, and that they cost a few arms and legs to pay for and transport, a future Murakami show of this caliber must be appreciated now before Brooklyn says "PEACE" to another contemporary treasure.

May 21st: 5:56pm - Practical Nutrition

Today is my first day of class in practical nutrition.
My Prof is Dr. Lane, and I am kinda excited.
After this class, I have 2 more classes and an externship in order to be done with my paralegal studies certification. Oh the joy to be out of HCCC.

The externship is when everything in life changes.
I will have to work in a court house or something.

One love to class.

RR

Woodstock Performance

Hello all,

Jay Crystall and I played a show with his friend Jim on Saturday, May 17th.

We arrived at the village of Woodstock in time to see the streets teeming with activity. Lots of colorful people and stores. The main plaza in the middle of town was was (as usual) overrun with an assortment of young people playing hacky-sack and devil sticks. Dreadlocks flying through the air.
(I'm a reggae rocker, do you love me?)

Woodstock tends to bring the hippie out in everyone. I remember spending many months up here with my dog. I even went so far as to attempt to put him on a vegetarian diet. I learned a very valuable lesson in that experience: making vegetarian dog food is much more trouble than it's worth.

Joshua's
We arrived and set up @ Joshua's, and were greeted quite warmly by Diana (pronounced Dee-Anna) who was busy drizzling oil on prepared breads. Jay, Jim an dI certinaly look forward to performing there again.

May 13th, 2008: New Camera View

Tuesday May 13th.
It was a magical birthday. I received a wonderful digital camera as a girt, and began by documenting the current state of affairs at "4th & Jackson". Currently, the space looks like more like a living space then a gallery. Now that the "PhotoSkin" event is taking place on May 31st, I have 2.5 weeks to reinvent "4th & Jackson" from a sparse apartment into a first class gallery.

Along the bottom of the glass closet, you can see paintings by Wynton Stevenson and SCET.


Along the front of the space, are two large windows facing the NYC skyline. those two windows are flanked by trees, plants and flowers. That same back wall has to be converted into a performance space on the night of may 31st for Caridad Rivera's "Living a Painting" performance.
There are upcoming rehearsals for "Living a Painting". All the lighting and music need to coincide perfectly. It's all about timing.


All walls still need a good whack of Spackle, and a repaint. The main gallery room needs more attention because the base coat is popping through in some parts.

The orange room is possibly the closest to being completed. Right now my goal is to hang fabric over the computer area so no visitors see the mess. I am also completely baffled by the couch. What am I going to do with this ugly couch? It has very much outlived it purpose. The foam is trying to escape through the side. There si some debatre whether it will be thrown out before May 31st (if it goes, there will be no where to sit.)

"4th & Jackson" Presents:
"The Rock Photography of Laura Desantis-Olsson"

Who: Laura Desantis-Olsson
What: Reception for Artist
Where: Shades of Hoboken. Monroe Center of the Arts. 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ
When: Friday, June 27th, 2008 7:30pm - Until the bar closes.

WE ARE HAVING AN OUT OF HOUSE EXPERIENCE!!!

Come to Shades in Hoboken for a live musical celebration of Laura Desantis-Olsson's Rock Photography Exhibition.

• Steps from 9th St Light Rail Station
• Free Parking
• Dress to Impress
• Stocked Cash bar

WE WANT TO KNOW WHO'S COMING!!!!!!
(If it looks big it IS BIG!)

"4th & Jackson" Grassroots Weekend

The disconnect between the plate and the pasture is so immense, we consume, without knowing where our food came from.There is a great book named the "Celestine Prophecy". In this book, spiritual groups plant and maintain their own gardens. They chew slowly and enjoy every bite. This is very much missing this connection to our food in urban areas.

In response to this disconnect, we have created our own container garden.
We are growing the following:
zucchini
Peppers
Tomato's
Lettuce
Thai Basil
Tarragon
Pansies








We have also re-potted just about every plant in 4th & Jackson. We are looking for a way to better sustain ourselves though this economic downturn. Every little bit helps.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IN COMMUNITY GARDEN

More than ever, we are finding the 3rd & Jackson Community Garden less of a sanctuary for gardeners, and more so for beer swilling residents from across the street. In its latest attempt to dispel beer drinkers, the organizing of the 3rd st community gardens have cut the picnic tables into kindling. Sux, big time.

This is a reality check for those who have not looked at the stock market *Clearing throat* -
YOU WILL SAVE MONEY BY PLANTING AND HARVESTING YOUR OWN PRODUCE! PUT DOWN THE BEER AND STOP BLOWING UP THE SPOT FOR YOUR GARDENING NEIGHBORS.
If 5.0 roll up to the community gardens and expel the beer guzzling crowd a few times, it will mar the public gardens image. We can ill afford that, especially at a time when sustainability is paramount on the global "To Do List".

Instead, I would like to focus on what the gardeners are doing. Here we see how easy it is to plant beans. Here we see one of the gardeners has planted 6 rows of beans, all of which should be ready to harvest by mid to late May.

Here is a wonderful article on how beneficial Community Garden are and the role they play in our communities.

The Community Gardens are an underutilized commodity. There are still lots that are unreserved or have not been used for sometime. I think some of these are fallow because Hobokenites don't know about them yet.

Took a Dive off of Fall Creek Drive!

I wrote this song when I visited Ithaca, NY.
I met some wonderful people, and saw first hand the differences between us hurried New Yorkers and the sedate chilled-outness of our northern friends.

Click here to hear "Art School Girl".

Art School Girl
Hey Art School girl, Where ya been,
the shows been over for an hour and Ten
All the cars have pulled away
I've got Five drink tickets, and its last call
And I wanna Rock with you!

Art School Girl, you live on a Farm
Blah Blah Blah, your favorite song
Theres an after-party goin on.
You know the town, so we're following yall

Thick black lines across a canvas
the parties live, and it's right next to campus
the more you talk, the more you prove yourself a shrew
Then 5.0 rolled up

The party moved to Arcadia hills,
Art School girl fell asleep at the wheel
took a dive off of Fall Creek Drive
It's kinda sad, and I'm fixing to grieve.

But that night on the lake,
with the moon on your face
looking on a gorges view

That life would be lovely
Yes, life would be lovely up here
That life would be lovely
Yes, life would be lovely up here

Ithaca Redux

Ithaca is Gorges

I met up with Steve, Ben, Peter, & Jake from Daylow on Friday. The departure time was moved from 4:45 to 3:30, so I had to get a move on.

Steve, Ben, & I drove in one car. Poor Steve had pink eye, so every so often during the 5-hour trip, the smell of Purell would permeate the air. We loaded up on wet naps (you know, just in case Steve touched anything) and arrived @ Castaways in Ithaca early.

Daylow was slated to open up for Rising Sun and The Gunpoets, a hip-hop band from Ithaca. Man, were the hip-hoppers out in force. Daylow went on @ 11:00pm, and ripped it.

Reflections on Ithaca:

Gullys and Gorges. Granola and grins. Lots of good vibes from the people. There is something to be said of a hip-hop show that was well attended by dancing hippies. The sight of many non-Africans with dreadlocks in the audience was a sure sign of a tolerant city. Rising Sun & The Gun Poets worked the audience for a full hour, and it still seemed like they could have continued without pause or breath. The audience, composed of local rockers & hip-hoppers was out in force, waving their hands, and dancing (some with oxygen tanks in tow!)

The Gun Poets CD was produced by local producer J-San, himself a local hero. It was at his house that we started our foray into Ithaca social culture. J's neighbor was a wonderful bundle of energy, who knew all to well that the success and longevity of a large party was nearly impossible without keeping those party goers in the backyard quiet as church mice. he repeatedly implored all in earshot to quiet down with extra long "SSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH's". I even echoed him to see if we could start a trend. To no avail. 5.0 Rolled up 2-deep, and began the hustle of visiting party after party to address noise complaints.

Party Number 2.

Ben and I were left to our own after the show. The other band members of Daylow took off on their 5.5 hour trip back to NJ. The shut down of the first party led to an invitation for the party to reform @ our hosts house.

Ben and I made bee-lines towards our sleeping accommodations. 2 couches in the main living room were provided for R&R. Soon after our arrival, a WII tournament had commenced in our bedroom. moving tot he kitchen, our host was busily preparing cheese quesadillas & Cheese tortellini. I had some girl talking my ear off about crystals and energy harnessing. My main focus for the evening was clear: try to drop some flow, with Ithaca's best of the best.

No use. Too tired. Fell asleep.

Waking up @ noon, our host provided us with driving directions out of town that would have us pass some of Ithaca's famed waterfalls. I was floored by the curves of Ithaca, drunk on the views from the descending twits in the road, and encouraged to visit again for a longer period of time. I passed what I think was the Cornell campus. It looked like Hogwart's school of Wizardry as we whizzed by the collection of stately buildings.

It was great spending time with Ben, An Alabama transplant from 11 years ago. I did learn something very important: Do not ask a truck stop counter person to remake your tuna sandwich without brushing up on your diplomacy skills.

Possible Daylow Excursion to Ithaca, NY

I still need to make a hand-out for tonights "Urban Jungle" event in NYC.
I am going to put something together as soon as I am done coordinating next weeks work schedule.
I have taken off tomorrow, so there is no need to worry about getting out of the club late.

I am going to responsibly rock out tonight. I still have to drive home!

Tomorrow I hope to be going to Ithaca NY for a musical excursion.

I have never been up there, but I hear it's "Gorges" I will be riding with the guys from Daylow.
If everything works out, I will enjoy the scenery change.

To much asphalt makes a man bitter.

2:30 Saturday April 12th.

11:30 I started the process of quickly cleaning the space (my apt) in order to accommodate visitors. I planned for 1 hour, and I just started mopping @12:30. Furthermore, I realize the "Random Roland Shit" I have already condensed (which took months) needs further consolidation.

I am coming to terms with my being a clutter bug, but "we do what we gots" in order to have things presentable. I was debating having a "Fortoul Presents: After party" here. I was prepared to have the walls prepped and hang the art for a weekend. This would have involved about 12 hours worth of work. The work would include spackling, repainting, positioning, setting up the space, alerting the right people, yadda yadda yadda.

“Urban Jungle: Making Waves, Tagging Bridges”
Group Art Show. Curated by Roland Ramos.
Presented by Antagonist Art Movement.

Niagara Bar will play host to a one night art show comprised mainly of Hudson County based artists. The group show, aptly named “Urban Jungle” is hosted by The Antagonist Movement and will take place April 17^th from 8pm till 2am in the downstairs section of Niagara Bar 112 Ave A, New York, NY 10009.

Combining street themes, contemporary art & music “Urban Jungle” bridges them all, with a twist. All participating artists reside in Hudson County, NJ; the thin strip of land due west of NYC. Highlighting this geographical distinction places emphasis on the burgeoning community of artist that exists on the periphery of the sacrosanct New York art scene.

Graffiti influences much of the displayed art. Artist’s WASE , SCET, and Hyphen-One bring credibility to the emergence of a contemporary art movement based on graffiti art applied to traditional canvas. Photographers Emily Anne Epstein, Camilo Godoy, Robert David, & Roxana Marroquin bring a documentation perspective to street art, capturing the “Flavor” of the streets. The cast of participating Hudson County artists include Amy Bauer, Caridad Rivera, Isaac Fortoul, Gordon Fraser, & Felix Gosse.

Participating artists: Amy Bauer, Caridad Rivera, Isaac Fortoul, Gordon Fraser, Felix Gosse, Emily Anne Epstein, Camilo Godoy, Robert David, Roxana Marroquin, WASE , SCET, and Hyphen-One

Musical Guests:
9pm: The Hippy Nuts (www.thehippynuts.com)
10pm: Ramelan (www.ramelanmusic.com)
11pm: Hyphen-One & Daylow (www.daylow.net)

Roland Ramos & "Fortoul Presents" The Sum of all Parts" April13th, 2008

"Instrument" by Bill Rood

Jersey City poet, Bill Rood, has a lot to write about.
The poem below talks to the reality of being a musician.
Please take a moment and read this poem.
How does it speak to you?


"Instrument"

Sign on street says, singers, songwriters, drummers, guitarists apply.

Band needs you if you've got groove, rhythm, and talent in supply.

Audition anytime. Bring your own equipment, but first drop us a line.

Bring your own equipment?

Poet ponders being your own equipment.

See, luckily I brought my brain today, didn't leave it behind

songwriter, I can rhyme a little if you've got the time

but you'll have to excuse me, I meant to pack the rhythym

and I'm hoping someone here has some with 'em

you know there’s so much to a poem so many parts to a song

I find now and then I forget to bring all the pieces along

I'm using what little I got on my mind

but if I can, just this time

borrow a little

a beat or two

one two, one two, one two two one

can the drummer spare some?

And not to worry I have the irony

like sun glasses for the blinding hypocrisy

it's all around in this day and age

packed deep within me in a ball of rage

metaphor, well, what little I could carry you see right here

and the simile is like something that works like a mirror

My tools of the trade are a little bit beaten, slightly frayed

many come second hand, some of them I made

took up space in a brain or two

got reborn, grew up, and changed a point of view.

Tools from friends and strangers, dropping words on the mike

or victims of my eves dropping, sounds from the streets and the like

there is little that's truly just mine

but please can you provide the music just this one time?

tonight I have just me, a few words, and a little rhyme.

Biggie Smalls is the Illest.

The sound of Hand drums outside my window comforted me.
Accompanied by squeaking brakes and revving engines, there was a sense of balance and comfort I have not known in a while.
Perhaps it is the fact that I currently have all the windows open.
I prefer it.
As much as I enjoy the elements, I usually choose to sleep in a car when camping.

Biggie hates all Rollerblades, skates, & skateboards.
This deep seeded beef with small wheeled objects is baffling to me.
Did Biggie have a run in with some wheeled bandits as a pup before he came to live with me?

Oh Biggie,
he has such a distrust f new people. I have seen him instill fear in friends.
He is as Jah made him. All except that he is fixed.
Imagine how aggressive he might be if he was not neutered!

All in all, those who know him, love him.

Biggie Smalls is the Illest.

April 13th: Fortoul Presents "The Sum of all Parts" @ The Monroe Center in Hoboken

This is exciting!!!! Very Very Exciting!

The Monroe center is only 3 blocks from my residence in Hoboken, making a great opportunity to impress the administration and possibly arrange for another bigger, better, event.

The Sound provided for the evening will be hosted by Lions Den Sound. DJ Sucio Smash will be spinning sound for the evening. There are only 5 hours to really enjoy this massively visceral experience. There are amazingly clever shirts for sale as well as beautiful art.

The art/design/fashion company Fortoul Presents will have a special exhibition for the Monroe Center’s “Open Studio Day” Sunday, April 13, 2008 from12pm until 5pm.

The show, aptly titled “The Sum of all Parts”, combines Art, Music & Film. The featured artists include: Isaac Fortoul, Heather Gargon, & Bobby Castaneda. The event was organized by Roland Ramos, in the interest of bringing quality art to Hoboken.

Fortoul Presents is headed by two Union City natives. Brothers, Isaac & Gabriel have called Phoenix, AZ, their home for the past 6 years and were instrumental in developing the art scene. The Fortoul brothers have returned to their Jersey roots and are looking forward to duplicating their success. With affiliates in Tokyo and New York, Fortoul Presents are destined for great things. (www.FortoulPresents.com)

Saturday Excursion: The Chelsea Galleries

Saturday was met with much anticipation.

The Friday NY Times Art events section highlighted an art installation by an illustrator named TABAIMO who was showing a large scale animation that spanned three walls. The aptly named “public conVENience,” (Ven being the Japanese word for public) takes place in a womans public bathroom.

I headed to Chelsea without knowing the exact address of the Tabaimo exhibition. En route I stopped in at a Chinese restaurant for lunch, and sat next to former New York City Mayor Ed Koch.

There were so many excellent exhibitions.
I stopped off at the Tria Gallery for the Francine Tint Exhibition. I loved the way the paint was spread over the canvas. There is nothing so decadent as acrylic paint being spread across a canvas with a enough paint to cover a large cement trowel. The colors swirled so many different ways, I was dizzy.

I met a lot of great people
I met a lot of great art

I met Susan Kraft, an artist from Cali who has a space across from Deb S. Wade from the First Street Gallery. I paid a visit to the Monkdogz Urban Art gallery in the same building. Susan , an excellent networker, introduced me to Lou Patrou, who recently showed his work a Monkdogz. I met him while taking in the emotive art of Jeran Won.

There was the cutest little gallery called the alcove. Its literally a corner in the same building. I couldn't imagine what the rent is. The art was excellent, and intuitive.

I was offered a libation @ the Serrano Contemporary Sonnet Gallery, and took an elevator with Xanda McCagg, A talented artist who also gives art tours.

Only in Chelsea, right!?!

The two "Holy Cow!!" moments came from my visits to the Tony Shafrazi Gallery for the Four Friends show & The Lehmann Maupin Gallery for the Ashley Bickerton Exhibition.

The Four Friends focused on the timeless works by four artist: JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT, KEITH HARING, DONALD BAECHLER & KENNY SCHARF. The shear size of the pieces were amazing. it was my second experience with Kenny Scharf's art. I had the pleasure of working with him for a day and I must say that his pieces are completely enrapturing. Through the years, i see an evolution in Kenny's art. I can't wait to see his next exhibition.

Ashley Bickerton's Fiji Dreams

From afar, it could be mistaken as a staged framed photograph. The closer you get, the more you realize what it is like to bask in the glow of genius. The vibrant, colorful, & evocative canvas prints, were only part of the presentation. The frame itself was 1 foot thick with inlaid pieces and crafted bas relief bowls manning the corners. Pervading the frames were sanded holes, which invoked a "Swiss Cheese" effect on the very large natural wood frames. Each one of the several pieces displayed were jarring.

What a day.
Chelsea was electric. A fully charged art environment.
It is a good time to be involved in the arts.