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Defend yourself Bushwick!

12-13-2012 12:28 PM

As most know by now, there has been terrifying news of recent attacks of women in Bushwick. Though the number of occurrences seem to vary depending on which source you read, there is no denying the seriousness of this matter. Of course the typical rules of safety need to be followed by residents of the hood: travel in groups, be wary of your surroundings, don't going wandering around wasted in the middle of the night, and so on. We at the Bushwick Dream would also suggest taking some ass-kicking lessons. Luckily there are a number of places that provide self defense courses in the vicinity. Just blocks away from the area of the recent attacks are two studios; one that teaches Traditional Okinawan Karate and another, Ving Tsun Kung Fu. Ladies, study up and if anyone ever messes with you, knock them the fuck out.

The fate of the Factory Fresh space - updated

11-12-2012 11:33 AM

It has been quite a while since the Factory Fresh Gallery has opened it's doors to Bushwick. For nearly a year the future of FF, one of the neighborhood's flagship galleries, was up in the air as owner Ali Ha worked to bring the beloved gallery back from the brink (even amid Bushwick Daily's premature and oddly confrontational declaration of the gallery's demise). It is certainly official that we will no longer be able to enjoy FF's street art offerings but now the question is; what will fill the space of the once cultural hub of our neighborhood? Most have assumed that the corner storefront would host yet another trendy bar or restaurant. Happily we can report, that is not the case. At this very moment the location is abuzz with activity as the former gallery takes on it's new role; a full fledge art store! We are very excited it see such an offering in the neighborhood, as they join the ranks of Low Brow Artique to locally supply the tools and supplies for creative expression. These are the types of businesses we need in the hood to keep Bushwick Bushwick.

(photo of the new space, taken under the rolling gate; all ninja style)

UPDATE (11-14-12)

This morning the Factory Fresh Gallery send out an email discussing their current state of affairs:

"As of October 2012, Factory Fresh will no longer host a public space, instead we are working with our artist on a larger global scale. As our artist careers have grown so have their opportunities. We have found they and many other artist need our help to protect their rights and future careers as artists. Factory Fresh advises and consults corporate clients and private collectors as an advocate for the artists bringing urban art to their collections and projects."

They were also nice enough to include a sneak peek photo of the new art store coming soon:

Insane video of Hurricane Sandy hitting Bushwick

10-30-2012 12:13 PM

Video thanks to local artist and resident Oliver Warden

Music for your Sandy watching enjoyment

10-29-2012 2:39 PM

Hurricane Sandy is upon us. For those of you hiding indoors from the wind and rain, that still have power, please enjoy some weather related music to go with your booze.(You do have booze, don't you?)

Associated is leaking!

09-19-2012 11:55 AM

The grand renovation at Associated Grocery on Knickerbocker has been quite awesome so far, introducing wider isles, a growing selection, growlers, and an overall improvement in atmosphere. It seems that the one thing they are missing so far though is waterproofing. The rainfall yesterday (09-18-12) was quick to prove that, as the brand new roof gave way to water. Giant rifts began appearing in the vaulted ceilings above the produce section and all over the store tiles began drooping and falling out; the floor soon became littered with containers catching the torrents of water falling from above. Somebody better call the contractor!

Spanish For Hipsters [8th installment]

08-20-2012 2:11 PM

So there you are in the only bodega on your block, and they don't speak a lick of English. What's a hipster to do? HOW AM I GOING TO ASK IF THEY CAN MAKE THE CUBANO SANDWICH VEGAN??? Well, here at The Bushwick Dream we have taken the time to tackle such burning questions.

1) I'll show you in a second. I have to pick the Instagram filter

Te enseño en un segundo. Tengo que escoger el filtro Instagram

2) Do you have any spare batteries for the portable record player?

Tienes baterias que te sobren para el toca discos portatil?

3) Oh I already heard. I blogged about it yesterday.

Ah ya escuche de eso. Lo escribí en mi blog ayer.

4) Do you remember when this place was real?

Te acuerdas cuando este lugar era de adeveras?

5) Yes mom, this is my apartment. Yes, that's a hole in the wall. Yes, that's my bed. It's called a loft bed. That's not dirt, it's paint. Mom,...mom please don't cry.

Si mamá, este es mi apartamento. Si ese es un hoyo en la pared. Si, esa es mi cama. Se llama litera. Eso no es mugre sino pintura. Mamá,.... mamá porfavor no llores.

Associated Grocery has Growlers

08-17-2012 10:19 AM

As many of you may already know, Associated Grocery; located on Knickerbocker, is undergoing a major reformation. The interior of the place has already been recently renovated beyond recognition with wider isles, vaulted ceilings, and an ongoing introduction of new products. This is a major step past the initial grocery gentrification they enacted years ago. The most exciting part of the Associated reboot is the introduction of Growlers, and by Growlers we mean large refillable beer containers, as opposed to the Urban Dictionary definition. You can purchase a 64oz Growler there for $5.50 or bring your own. Their beer selection is quite nice and affordable. Happy drinking.

Friday night art openings

08-14-2012 4:11 PM

For those of you that didn't make it out last Friday (08-10-12), here are some shots of the neighborhood art goings-ons of the evening. Firstly the fine folks at Storefront Gallery unveiled a collection of atmospheric work by artists Karen Marston and Kerry Law.

And then there was the Salon Show opening at Active Space, displaying a wide array of art covering what seems like nearly every medium, including a horse!

Fun times.

3 Questions [#8]

08-13-2012 10:37 PM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. The Bushwick Dream puts random people on the spot. This time: Matt Timms, and found at The Active Space.

Why are you here?

I do a lot of things. I throw culinary parties and I'm a local artist, filmmaker and actor. (He made those pillows in the background).

What are the borders of Bushwick?

Awwwwwwwww...... I think the border extends to..... ohhhhh ohhhoho...... Williamsburg, ummm, to be honest, I'm bullshitting here, but I thought that it was Williamsburg because people would call "Williamsburg" "Bushwick" back in the day and now there's all these delineations, whatever, it's all bullshit. But at the end of the day as it stands right now it starts at the Morgan stop...NO wait the Montrose stop that would be a key point. There's Grand.... go down Bushwick Avenue..... okay Bushwick Avenue has got be a wall by most people's standards these days and I think it goes all the way out into infinity, uh, east and then it stops before you hit Bed-Stuy and you hit a wall at Bed-Stuy I'm going to say, oh God, not after Broadway, but not after.....uhhhhh.... East Broadway but.... oHHHH I DONT KNOW!!!!!!!!!

What is your weapon of choice?

It's gotta be a hand grenade.

Jon Burgerman on the rooftop

08-08-2012 3:20 PM

Last Friday night (08-03) was humid as fuck. A thick wind blew carrying the sound of motorcycles and random sirens in the air. People were abuzz in the streets going who-the-hell-knows where, hurrying along in tank tops and flip flops as is there was a beach somewhere near. Armed with cheap beer, a boom box and flood lights, we were up above on a roof with the pleasure of chilling with artist Jon Burgerman as he took on a rooftop mural. Check out the photos and video below of the man as he puts down a frenzy of intertwined cartoonish characters. What you see here is just phase 1. Next is filling in the color.

And also, if you happened to miss it, here's the video:

Bushwick Music Videos

08-05-2012 10:36 AM

Bushwick seems to have become a location of choice for music videos as of late. With its industrial grit-and-trash lined streets, mural strewn walls, and skies dotted with spiraling flocks of pigeons, it's easy to see how this backdrop can inspire wonder and maybe even lend to a bit of street cred. We've already shown you the hilarious Anxeteam video, shot in Morgantown, but here are even more videos shot in the hood. See if you can spot your block.

And as a bonus, check out this video by Bushwick's own Charles Bradley. He's incredible.

Spanish For Hipsters [7th installment]

07-24-2012 7:38 PM

1) It's weird, I never get stopped and frisked.

Es extraño, nunca me detuvo y registró a.

2) I remember when this place used to be Buffalo Cantina

Recuerdo cuando este lugar era la cantina de búfalo.

3) They better have two dollar pbr's here.

Mas vale tengan pbr's de los dolares aqui.

4) Do you want to go to Birkam Yoga with me?

¿Quieres ir a Birkam yoga conmigo?

5) I got this vest at The Urban Jungle.

Tengo este chaleco en La Urban Jungle.

Northeast Kingdom Revamp

07-24-2012 10:36 AM

Northeast Kingdom is getting an overhaul; revamping their kitchen and making room for in-house whole-animal butchering. As one of the first Bushwick fine-dining restaurants, they've always been a forerunner in providing residents with the most exquisite of meals. Remember, when they opened back 2005 (when most of you were in high school) such a venture in this hood was very risky gamble — one that certainly paid off, in that they are among the few that paved the way for the reformation of this neighborhood. Upon their return, we are very excited to see what tasty morsels that plain to come out with next.

Wyckoff Hospital; Indifferent as fuck

07-21-2012 2:56 PM

It was a beautiful morning, 75° with the sun shining and a light breeze. I was taking a nice stroll enjoying this great fortune in weather when I came across a man unconscious, sprawled across the sidewalk in an unnatural position on Irving Ave. He was not unkempt; his attire; blue color, his face slack and motionless except an occasional twitch of the eyes. A good samaritan had approached him and gave him a few shakes in a failed attempt to wake him, even going so far as to lift him off the ground and lean him against a fence, again trying to rouse him. The unconscious man simply slouched down and regained his pose. The good samaritan immediately went to his phone. I passed by concerned but relieved that who ever this man is, he would be getting some help soon.

Half an hour later I passed by the same location, and abandoned still lied the unconscious man, now pushed against the sidewalk; out of the way of foot traffic. Luckily, or so one would think, I immediately spotted a Wyckoff Emergency Services vehicle (pictured above) parked directly around the block on Jefferson Street. The driver standing outside smoking a cigarette, the other paramedic talking on a cellphone in the cab, with the engine running. I immediately told the one standing outside about the situation and the need for their help.

The trained EMS driver looks me right in the eye, and says "Where are you from? Around here we just step over those kind of people." Completely appalled, I went on to inform him that I have lived on the block for six years. I was also aware of the local junkie population. This man is not part of it. He looked bad and they should really check him out. The driver, with his indifference still intact relented, and as if it was a joke agreed to give him some attention; to "go wake him up." He gave a flick of his cigarette and got back in to the ambulance.

Forty minutes of idling later, the ambulance finally left its parking spot. It turned right onto Irving Ave., stopped at the light - forty feet from where the man lie motionless, and continued on its way. At a leisurely pace, it headed back towards Wyckoff Heights Medical Center, as you can see from the picture below (that's the ambulance in the distance, the man in the foreground). The unconcious man remains on the sidewalk. He has been given a bottle of water. 911 has been called, but of course if anyone shows up, they'll probably just step over him.

This is just one example of Wyckoff Hospital's apathetic approach to their duty and human life in general. Try Googling them. And don't ever go there.

Welcoming Low Brow Artique

07-15-2012 12:09 PM

Last night (7-14) on the corner of Central Ave and Willoughby, doors opened to a new neighborhood art spot; Low Brow Artique. A storefront unique in that it not only functions as a gallery but also an art supply store, currently boasting and expansive collection of spray paint. We hear that soon they will be extending their inventory to canvases, paint markers, and all the tools-of-the-trade for traditional and street artists alike. Finally a neighborhood art store! The opening itself was a fun affair with food, drinks, art and chillin out front; enjoying the cool Summer evening with red plastic cups in hand.

"Wait a second," some of you may be saying. "There already is a Bushwick art store!" And its true. Located on 36 Gardner Ave there has been a tiny art supply store sitting hidden for years. Of course they don't seem to have any posted hours or employees. But it is a good spot to hit up if you need some emergency supplies. You just have to ask the workers in the warehouse next door to open it up for you.

Glen Friedel: Artist, Bushwick resident, one hell of a guy.

07-18-2012 9:19 PM

Bushwick's own Glen Friedel will be exhibiting his piece, Awakening in the upcoming national juried show "Color" at the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition in Red Hook from July 28-August 19.

His work is from an alternative photographic process called a "photogram". After some initial exposures to set background colors, Friedel uses a live model who physically lies on the light sensitive paper. Colored lights of various intensity are exposed, resulting in “a vision of the human essence.” The entire process is done in complete darkness and leaves no negative. Neat, eh?

There are eight individual pieces that make up the ten foot wide artwork and it's quite majestic up close. We here at TBD think you should check out this show, something tells us this one is going to be good. Congrats Glen.

Mural population rising

06-11-2012 8:52 PM

Has anyone noticed the recent up-crop of murals at St. Nicholas Ave and Troutman St. by the Bodega Bar? Hell, there is some major paint going up at this very moment (8:24pm); some quality work.

Residential Takeover recap

06-05-2012 11:38 AM

Ah, what a beautiful weekend we all had in Bushwick, wandering the streets and viewing the cornucopia of work the neighborhood has to offer. Even with a bit of rain on Sunday, Bushwick Open Studios was a huge success and proved that the Bushwick community has grown into a formidable force (almost scarily so) in the art world. Us at The Bushwick Dream would like to thank all of those who participated in, and came to view our own little foray in curating; Residential Takeover. We had such fantastic feedback and a great time doing it.

For those of you who missed the show, here's a look:

Also, here is a fun vid of Tim; lead man of Timatim Fitfit performing out front:

Thanks again to those who participated:

Sasha Braginsky, QRST, Allison Sommers, Jon Burgerman, Vahge, Glenn Friedel, Artem Mirolevich, Unartig, Donald Ducote, Alex Feld, Alden Stover, Daria Ska, Peter Striffolino, Steven Harrington, Winston Conrad, Phyllis Ma.

A Sunday night with Ad Deville and Jon Burgerman

05-21-2012 7:46 PM

The smell of paint was in the air Sunday night, as artists Jon Burgerman and Ad Deville took to the Bushwick rooftops to do what they do — you know, art. Working in front of a small gathering, they hit the front of two buildings, taking breaks to enjoy some BBQ and the evening spring air.

Stop-and-Frisks are Bullshit

05-09-2012 2:44 PM

Today the New York Civil Liberties Union came out with their analysis of 2011 Stop-and-Frisks, using the numbers from NYPD's database. It's no surprise that it reveals stop-and-frisks as an ineffectual racially biased practice.

According to the numbers:

- In 33 of 76 precincts black and Latino people accounted for more than 90 percent of stops

- The number of stops of young black men exceeded the entire city population of young black men (168,126 as compared to 158,406)

- Of the 685,724 stops 605,328 were of people who had engaged in no unlawful behavior.

- And on a lighter note, 55,063 people were stopped for possessing a "suspicious bulge"

Obviously the practice of stop-and-frisk is bullshit and rights-infringing. Maybe it's time for the NYPD to stop fishing and trying some actual "police work"

The complete NYCLU findings can be seen HERE.

The Hipsterfication of Commercials

04-29-2012 11:37 AM

Has anyone noticed the recent prevalence of all-things-hipster in current tv commercials? It's scary. It seems that marketing companies have found themselves a new demographic. And now nationwide when people watch television, their product spokesmen sport full beards, horn rimmed glasses and skinny jeans. It kind of bleeds the "hip" out of "hipster" doesn't it?

But on the brighter side it makes for a wonderful drinking game. Every time an ad comes up and you spot a thrift store wardrobe, asymmetrical haircut, ironic facial hair or fedora, take a shot. For those of you who don't own a tv, see examples below.

Spanish for Hipsters [6th Installment]

03-15-2012 6:44 PM

1) Just friend me on Facebook.

Solo haste amigo de mi en Facebook.

2) What do you mean this place has a cover charge?

¿Que quierres decir con que este lugar tiene cover?

3) It's getting cold. Time to bring out my fingerless gloves, over sized scarf and pea coat.

Se esta poniendo frio. Tiempo de sacar mis mintones, bufanda extendida, y chaquiton.

4) I cut my own hair.

Yo corto mi propio pelo.

5) Do you carry hemp milk?

¿Tienes usted leche canamo?

Beat Night 2012

03-11-2012 2:22 PM

So another Beat Night has come and gone. The Bushwick Dream team got a bit of a late start but none the less we were on scene for a few of the events. The good news is the weather was nice, there was some free alcohol and some damn fine artwork by Skewville, QRST and Don Pablo Pedro to name a few. Here's a peek....

Bushwickbk returns

02-16-2012 10:51 PM

It looks like Bushwickbk is waking back up. It was a shock to many to see them shut down last October. The website had long been a staple of the community; providing an extensive events list, reliable news, and reviews on nearly everything. At this moment they are raising money to bring that all back for all of us. They have the most amazing and diverse arry of rewards for backers, from art to food to a church pew! Go check it out. Give a bit of money. Its worth it.

Skewville turns 80 at Factory Fresh

02-08-2012 11:09 PM

This past Friday Factory Fresh was the site of Skewville's 80th: A Retro Retrospective. The Queens-raised twin art-duo showed how to properly fill a galley; thoroughly covering every wall floor to ceiling. Anxieteam played to an enthralled crowd and people from Nuart stopped buy to present the brothers with a copy of Eloquent Vandals, featuring some of their previous exploits. Oh, and there was beer. Cheers.

Have a Merry Christmas Bushwick

12-25-2011 8:15 AM

Best Bushwick Tweets of the Week

12-06-2011 11:11 PM

In third place:

@La_Shiinax3

22 yr old female; living in Bushwick on my own; no kids & never been pregnant... Is there an award for this? If so, where's mine?

In second place:

@amoolia

I think mediocre skateboarding originated in Bushwick

And in first place and the winnah of the best tweet of the week is....

@jstraw

You know you're in Bushwick when you see a girl with a shaved head and a ponytail.

Swallow Cafe changes its position

12-06-2011 10:14 AM

After a bit of neighborhood disapproval over Swallows new mural, it seems that the cafe took heed of neighborhood opinion and yesterday altered the painting, covering over the silly statement "welcome to morgantown". A good call.

Spanish for Hipsters [5th Installment]

11-29-2011 7:18 PM

So there you are in the only bodega on your block, and they don't speak a lick of English. What's a hipster to do? HOW AM I GOING TO ASK IF THEY CAN MAKE THE CUBANO SANDWICH VEGAN??? Well, here at The Bushwick Dream we have taken the time to tackle such burning questions.

1) Mic check!

¡ Checa Micrófono!

2) Oh no! I scuffed my Converse.

¡No mames, Fregué mis Converse!

3) I know I should get this rash checked out. Is there a free clinic around here?

Se que debería cheqarme estas erupctiones. ¿Hay alguna clínica cerca de aca?

4) Fuck! I hate Fox News.

¡Chinga! Me caga Fox News.

5) Look what I found in the trash. It would look perfect on the wall.

Ve lo que encontré en la basura. Esto se vería perfecto en la pared.

Best Bushwick Tweets of the Week 11/27

11-28-2011 12:17 AM

Beacause you can't read 'em all, we bring you the best

In third place

@ xtopher1974

Sure the fancy end of Bushwick has cute cafes but we have better cell service plus better taquerias.

In second place:

@gradyderosa

Bushwick at 1 in the morning is one hell of an adrenaline rush.

And in first place and the winnah of the best tweet of the week is....

@lila_engel

"You should come visit me in Bushwick"

"Do you have brunch near you? I don't want to get stuck there after dark"

Swallow coffee shop, the representative of Morgantown?

11-27-2011 12:12 PM

As many of you may know, Swallow has gotten a face lift with a new mural. Now a large bird (let's assume it's a swallow) on a black background dominates its exterior and in big bold letters it proclaims "Welcome to Morgantown". Many long term Bushwick residents don't seem so comfortable with this murals statement and it's easy to tell why.

The label "Morgantown" popped up sometime in the early 2000s describing a small oasis of artists in an otherwise strictly industrial and Puerto Rican area. This geographical term was only known to locals and created a sense of community, being not only a location but a cultural marker amongst its first wave of residents, many of which looked to deny mainstream culture and the trappings of the Chelsea style art world. But then the hype went into action. As Bushwick grew in reputation, Morgantown, it's fledgling epicenter, also gained great popularity. The term first appeared on the internet around 2005, possibly on justseeds.org, and by 2007 became widely used in flyers, craigslist ads and local blogs (this one included). Now references to "Morgantown" can be found in many large publications, tv shows and tourist guides. It is becoming a tourist destination, a magnet for posers, trust fund kids and outside forces looking to set up shop and make a buck (Swallow included).

"Mogantowns" legitimacy is being eclipsed by it's marketability, and there is no better proof then relative newcomer Swallow declaring "Welcome to Morgantown"; identifying itself with a community it took no part in forming, creating nothing more than a perfect spot to check maps and pose in front of for photos. Bad form.

Robbery at Jefferson St

11-25-2011 6:39 PM

Bushwick, with its thriving art community and ever growing selection of bars and restaurants seems so very safe now-a-days. But nevermind all the magazine write-ups and influx of young artist types, this place is still with its dangers. Case in point, Just today (11-25-11) long time Brooklyn resident Steven Harrington (pictured below) had himself quite a run in. While entering the Jefferson L train stop he was confronted at the top of the stairs by two men in their early twenties, one possessing a gun. While menacing, they made for a fairly bungling pair and Steven was able negotiate his way through the situation, only parting with his cell phone. As you can see he is smiling in his photo. That's because he's alive. Though he made it fairly unscathed it's good to be wary. Go ahead and tell your parents that of course Bushwick is safe but while walking around, watch your ass.

As you can see he is smiling in his photo. That's because he's alive.

Bushwick Dream music video

11-25-2011 12:43 PM

We at The Bushwick Dream can't help but love the newest song/video by art/music duo Anxieteam. So very awesome.

Trailer Park, redefined

11-25-2011 11:56 AM

In this landscape of steal and concrete it's always nice to get a little exposure to some greenery. Artist Kim Holleman has a novel way to supplying such things with her creation Trailor Park: a mobile public park. It is currently located on Bogart St near Boerum. Don't miss your chance to stop by and take a stroll in this 18' X 8' botanical wonderland.

Happy Thanksgiving!

11-24-2011 1:31 PM

Eat, drink and be merry. And don't go feeling so bad about those turkeys. If given the chance they'd eat you too. Example:

The L Train Notwork

11-14-2011 9:23 AM

Those who live off the the L train will have a special treat during their commute this week. From 8 to 10 am (11/14 – 11/19) riders in the last two cars will have access to a pirate Wi-Fi intranet; the " L Train Notwork" which allows users to share info, photos or simply chat amongst each other. This fun project is brought to us by the good people at We Make Cool Sh.it and will feature poetry, prose and writing from the writers collective 1441. When you get on the train simply connect to the "notwork" and go to LTrainNotWork.com to join in the excitement.

Picture Via 1441.

Dreaming of a white Halloween?

10-29-2011 12:36 PM

Yes it's October and yes it's snowing; a truely great WTF moment for all Bushwick residents. Pity for all the girls and their sexy nurse/police/vampire costumes. They are going to freeze.

3 Questions [#7]

09-09-2011 6:35 PM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. Bushwick Dream puts random people on the spot. This time: Paola R., and found at P earl's Social and Billy Club, hailing originally from Bushwick!

Why are you here?

Well I was born in Bushwick and the house that I live in, I own and it's been in my generation for two generations. I'm also a real estate agent.

What are the borders of Bushwick?

The borders of Bushwick are always changing.

What is you weapon of choice?

Klingon Bat'leth

Restaurant review: Abidjan

08-31-2011 7:19 PM

Fact: Nine out every ten dishes ordered in Bushwick will come in a tortilla. We love Mexican, but how much corn can one person take? Bushwick Dream gives you the rundown on your other options for unpretentious ethnic cuisine.

If you thought that the Athom Café was the only Broadway joint catering to francophiles, you’re wrong. Close to the Kosciuszko J stop you’ll find Abidjan, a restaurant whose whose colorful and patriotic awning promises “Bon Manger le Bon Gout” or, Good Food, Good Taste. (Doesn’t everything sound better in French?) [more]

It's named for the capital of the Cote d’ Ivoire (aka the Ivory Coast), and the dishes depicted in its neon-rimmed windows--platters of hearty stews, whole fishes and various meats--promise a West African feast.

Once you’re buzzed in (they apparently know the score in this end of the neighborhood), you’ll find yourself in a large, brightly lit dining room with vinyl-covered tables. Near to the entrance is a huge flat-screen TV; on the night we were there it was playing music videos in which sexy Ivorian ladies showered big-bellied men with affection. Stepping into the restaurant was like entering the home of a friendly African aunty that we didn’t know we had.

We were not the only ones in the restaurant, but the good-humored men at the front of the house seemed pleasantly surprised that such a large group of non-Ivorians had turned up. Our particular waiter seemed a bit frazzled, but he kindly guided us as we pored over the picture menus and peppered him with questions about the offerings that night. Lots of items weren’t available, but we did manage to come up with an interesting constellation of dishes and beverages.

First, some drinks. We ordered some of the excellent, piquant ginger juice, which seemed to be made off-premises. It had a nice, limey kick to it and just the right amount of sweetness. We also ordered deguai (pronounced dee-gay), a thick yogurt and couscous-like concoction flavored with vanilla and other essences and served with a spoon. It was absolutely delicious, hands-down one of the best things on the menu.

For mains we ordered grilled whole fish ($10), grilled lamb chops ($6) and chicken in peanut sauce stew ($6). It took quite a bit of time for the modest operation to turn our dishes out, and when they did come they staggered out one a time. The fish was superb--it came topped with cucumbers, tomatoes and raw onions and included a spicy-tomato based sauce. It had a great flavor and was big enough to feed two. The grilled lamb chops tasted better than their jerky-like appearance indicated and were well-seasoned. So far so good. Alas the chicken in peanut sauce was a disappointment. A more fitting name would have been peanut soup, as there was hardly any chicken to be found. The sauce itself was adequate.

Mains were served a la carte, which gave us a chance to check out a few different starch-based sides. To complement the fish we ordered plain white rice, deliciously crisp fried plantains and also attieke, an Ivorian staple made of cassava root that has been ground to a couscous-like consistency. Abidjan’s version had a hint of lemon and a slight, smokey taste that added a nice complexity. Fufu, which you might refer to as the mashed potatoes of West and Central Africa, was ordered to accompany the peanut sauce stew. It’s a thick paste made of starchy root vegetables that have been boiled, pounded and molded into a soft mound resembling Play-Doh. The version sold at Abidjan was slightly yellow in color and pleasingly soft on the tongue. Great to eat, however, it was hard to resist the urge to pick it up and shape it into silly animals.

We ate until our own bellies got big and then asked for the check. With drinks and some sharing of entrees included, our party of six was able to chow down for a price ranging from from around $10 to no more than $16 each (ex tips). As we paid and left, the manager warmly saluted us and urged us to come again. For a welcoming atmosphere, reasonable prices and food that hits more than it misses, we promised that we will!

Abidjan, 1136 Broadway between Dekalb and Kosciuszko Street

Spanish for Hipsters [4th Installment]

08-29-2011 9:49 PM

So there you are in the only bodega on your block, and they don't speak a lick of English. What's a hipster to do? HOW AM I GOING TO ASK IF THEY CAN MAKE THE CUBANO SANDWICH VEGAN??? Well, here at The Bushwick Dream we have taken the time to tackle such burning questions.

1) Which delivery service do you use?

¿Qual servicio de distribución se utiliza?

2) I don't believe in Jesus...... but I believe in Kafka.

No creo en Dios...... pero creo en Kafka.

3) Do you know where I can get a room with lots of natural light and high ceilings for $600?

¿Sabes donde puedo consigir un cuarto con mucho luz natural y con un techo alta para $600?

4) Is there a yoga studio around here somewhere?

¿Ay un estudio de yoga por aqui?

5) It's vintage.

Es antiguo.

Best Bushwick Tweets of the Week 8/29

08-29-2011 9:08 PM

Because you can't read 'em all, we bring you the best

In third place:

@ohdesigners

The people who live in the apt. above me are screaming and throwing things and I think it's all over who gets to use the microwave #bushwick

In second place:

@sarah_mas

Ok this is the third time I sat on the M and smelled weed,. Oh Bushwick, you're silly.

And in first place and the winnah of the best tweet of the week is....

@sahMON3Y

Co-worker: I used to live in Brooklyn,

Me: What part??

Co-worker: East Williamsburg.

Me: Bitch you mean Bushwick.

Whose hood?

08-25-2011 5:13 PM

This morning the residents of Jefferson St. between Irving and Knickerbocker woke up to a monumental surprise. Crowning the tops of four buildings (spanning 100 ft) bold black letters proclaim "You'r in my hood now!" Take note.

Chris Stain: In the Dream

08-25-2011 12:55 PM

Recently, we at the Bushwick Dream were gathered on our usual rooftop talking about upcoming posts, and one of the Dans asked, “Did you see that new mural on Vandervoort?” (the city block that is becoming the Bushwick Art Park, next to art gallery Factory Fresh). Artist Veng of Robots Will Kill had painted the wall with characters for Bushwick Open Studios in June.

“Now it says, In The Dream, and it’s huge,” Dan said. I passed by on my way home to check it out, and my first thought was, how had I not seen it? The mural comprises 25-foot-high letters that spell out In The Dream spanning the length of the block, 200 or more feet. And that key word dream is obviously close to our Bushwick Dream hearts. Painted inside the letters are scenes of urban life--people, street signs, graffiti--that are a natural fit for Bushwick. After the words there is an icon resembling a sunburst, a URL (inthedream.org), and three names: Voke. Stain. Mode. I contacted Chris Stain and asked him if he’d tell me the story behind the mural.

He lives close to Bushwick, so we met for tacos at El Fogon on Flushing Avenue--a location that reminded me to ask him about another mural--on the side of the restaurant. That mural, about two years old but only recently tagged over, was a collaboration between Chris Stain and Billy Mode. The two have been friends for more than 20 years; both grew up in Baltimore. Stain had proposed the mural, which features kids and the word esperanza (Spanish for hope) to the owner of El Fogon, who gave his consent.

Unfortunately, however, access to the wall was blocked by a locked gate that was in place to keep people out of the empty lot next door. As Stain and Mode started painting, a man spotted them from his window and began to harass the pair, threatening to call the lot’s owner, and the police. So even with consent, sometimes there are problems, Stain lamented. “Some people hate public art. But then, some of it is downright ugly.”

Chris Stain, father of two, speaks with the maturity of someone who was once that young graff junkie who just wanted to make a name for himself, but then did so, and got the chance to make some decisions about what to do next. And what he does, a lot, is paint walls. “And if I can do it legally, I will,” he says. A few days after our meeting I went to a party in Williamsburg, and that roof featured yet another big outdoor Stain-Mode collaboration, “Cries of the Ghetto,” with characters rendered in the style of social realism and also unmistakably Stain’s. He depicts blue-collar subjects and urban environments in a way that reveals reverence for his working-class characters as well as for the past.

Chris Stain lives in New York and collaborates with Baltimore-based Mode sometimes, but more than a decade had passed since either had seen former third musketeer Pat (Voke), who’d moved west. In fact, the three friends, who’d painted together as long ago as 1989, had lost track of each other until this March. When chance put them in touch again, Stain arranged a reunion and got permission for the Bushwick wall; Voke’s NY visit became part of “In The Dream’s Summer Tour.” So far, the trio has painted the Vandevoort mural and another project in Albany.

When I asked what In The Dream means, Stain explained that the three are resurrecting a name they used to paint under, in the ‘90s. Back then, In The Dream was shorthand to describe the painting experience itself. “Working outside, at night, painting, expressing your creativity, that is the dream,” he said. There’s something surreal about painting outside at night, “so while you’re doing it, you’re in the dream.”

On the site set up to document In The Dream’s projects (current, past and future), Stain calls creating the mural using a projector and paint sprayers “cheating.” But if they hadn’t, those 5,000 square feet might still be unfinished. The three men spent five long nights at work on the wall.

I found myself imagining how mystical and meaningful it must have felt to them, to work together again in their bliss, their collective dream, after so much time apart. Stain says the experience was powerful for him, and that all three are reenergized and looking forward to future projects together. The mural seems to be a reflection of and monument to their friendship, to friendship. And yet, soon it will be gone forever.

Through his artwork, whether it’s for gallery shows or prints or commissions or outdoor space, Stain says he’s “just trying to tell a story with pictures.” But this story, in particular, was a very personal one. You can’t give your heart and soul and a week of your life to a project that probably won’t even exist a month from now. Can you?

I find myself wishing the mural would live out a long, happy life with us here in Bushwick. But on practicing non-attachment, Chris Stain is way ahead of me, already thinking about the commission he will be finishing over the next few days.

“Everything is temporary, and everybody wants it not to be that way. Even the emotion that goes into the art is temporary.” Behind these words, I think, lies the reason why creating feels so dreamlike.

More Chris Stain: His work is included in Brooklyn Street Art’s Los Angeles show, “Street Art Saved My Life.” He’s participating in Living Walls in Albany in September 2011. The Living Walls project started in Atlanta last year. Its mission is to promote art and culture by creating murals on wall space donated by business owners and other community stakeholders. Chris Stain is also the author of a book coming soon from Drago Publishing, Long Story Short, that offers a zine-style look at his life and art.

Images: Courtesy of and copyright Becki Fuller/The Street Spot, and The Bushwick Dream. Becki posted additional photos and coverage of this mural project here.

Close Encounters with Famous Accountants

08-18-2011 3:03 PM

How close do you dare to get to strangers? Can you create a new persona at a moment’s notice? Are you comfortable confronting people that you don’t really know? These and other such probing questions are at the heart of Ellen Letcher and Kevin Regan’s latest experiment: a revival the 1970s phenomenon known as the encounter group.

The duo behind the Famous Accountants gallery are hosting encounter groups from August 18th to August 22nd at NURTUREArt on Grand Street. Anyone can sign up to participate in a two-hour slot.

They call their experiment More Joy, referring to a book written by Will Schutz in 1967. Schutz was a strong proponent of the encounter group during his time at Esalen, the famous human potential institute in California. In developing his techniques, Schutz modified and built on methods that were actually developed by the U.S. Navy in 1947 for the purpose of molding its members into cohesive teams.

As Kevin explained before taking me through an intensive preview, encounter groups are “...a weird, freaky little artifact from the 1970s. People don’t do stuff like this now, do they?”

They certainly don’t. The two-hour session combined a lot of thought-provoking exercises with a good dose of the physical. While it was tiring at times, it also seemed to make a space for new personal insights into myself and my co-participants. At the end there was the unmistakable feel of new bonds being built. More Joy, indeed.

3 Questions [#6]

08-18-2011 2:26 AM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. Bushwick Dream puts random people on the spot. This time: Jack H., and found at Goodbye Blue Mondays, hailing originally from Brooklyn, NY

Why are you here?

I'm playing a show, actually, my band......Proxima Control.

What are the borders of Bushwick, in your opinion?

What are the borders of Bushwick? Does Williamsburg count as a border?

What's your weapon of choice?

Oh man..... spiked brass knuckles!

Bushwick Artist Feature: QRST

08-17-2011 12:41 AM

Once in a while you walk into an art gallery in Bushwick and see something you really like. Then there are those times when you walk into a room and see a well-hung piece and say to yourself, "Jesus-Mother-Loving-Christ...... That's fucking awesome."

Recently I had the pleasure of this reaction courtesy of a gentleman going by Criminy Johnson (also "QRST") during Bushwick Open Studios as part of Curbs and Stoops' Stay Gold exhibition. His artwork usually teeters on the edge somewhere between creepy and lovable, or, surreal and familiar. I felt it was my duty to gain some access to his psyche and post what I learned for all to read here at The Bushwick Dream.

The Bushwick Dream: How did you come up with "QRST" and how the hell am I supposed to pronounce it?

QRST: It's a secret. it's pronounced either "QRST" or "qrst," both are acceptable. (ha)

TBD: I love the way you illustrate peoples' faces...... I especially like the giant eyes and deep glares that come from your characters. What is your inspiration for such massive eyes and expressiveness?

QRST: Eyes and eye contact and direction of gaze are obviously really expressive parts of faces, and so it feels natural to exaggerate or intensify those aspects of figures. Also I've always just enjoyed rendering eyes and they usually just feel like they should be big... it sometimes seems like making large intense eyes makes an entire piece so strong that it's almost like cheating. When I was painting more animals than people, the eyes ended up really large and dark, and I think some of that carried over to the people that I've been making recently. I could ramble on about eye contact and animal behavior and art history but i think that it would be a boring read.

TBD: How long do you nomally spend on any particular piece? What's the longest and shortest?

QRST: For outside pieces the big ones generally take around 30 or 40 hours. The really little guys i can usually make in an hour or two. The most time-consuming outside piece was probably the two guys with the trains and I think that ran into 60+ hours.

TBD: They just covered up the "Man with Glasses - Rat Feet - With a Kitty" piece you did. How do you feel when someone covers your artwork? Does it piss you off more when it's covered with a flat color as opposed to another artist tagging over it?

QRST: Ugh! I try not to be overly disappointed when something gets destroyed or painted over, but if they have a really short run and something was up in a good spot where it was going to last, it's a little tougher to take. Really, though, I'm glueing them to a wall, outside, they're not going to last forever. I don't know which is worse, tagged or buffed, neither is worth getting angry about, though. I also had the advantage of beginning my wheat-pasting life in San Francisco, where a really solid run was two or three weeks, so on a certain level I'm always just glad to see it still there the next day when I show up to take more pictures.

TBD: Have you ever covered someone's work over on purpose or out of spite, you know, just because you hate that fucker?

QRST: No, I usually try to be pretty polite. Besides, my guys take too long to make to get into a contest with someone, because I won't win.

TBD: If you weren't doing street art and paintings and such what would you be doing?

QRST: Uhmmm.... watching cartoons.... astrophysics.... I don't know. Probably something strange.

TBD: Why did you choose Bushwick? Are you gonna stick around for a while or you looking to grab your bindle and hit the tracks?

QRST: My friend and I were just looking for lofty live/work kind of places when we arrived in New York, and Morgan/Jefferson seemed to be relatively affordable and not overly dangerous, so it just kind of happened that way. I like my newest landlord and I don't have any plans to leave so...

TBD: What's next on your immediate agenda? Any exciting new plans we should be looking forward to?

QRST: I'm going to put something up in the LES when I get back into town with some other folks (General Howe, Quel Beast, Bishop203, Laura Meyers, some others I'm forgetting). Joe [Franquinha], the guy who puts together Crest Fest every year, has this backyard timeshare project going on... I guess someone's turning a vacant lot on Ludlow into a rentable yard, and he's getting a bunch of people to put up work. Unfortunately both my piece and I are going to miss the opening. Nothing concrete beyond that. Painting as much as I can.

TBD: If you could meet one artist living or dead who would it be and why?

QRST: I can't think of a good answer for this question. Anyone worth using a magic interview wish to meet would end up being a disappointment, right? I'm going to wish for cookies, or for next winter to be less terrible.

TBD: Did you have fun with us at Pearl's the other night? I can't remember a lot of it.

QRST: Yes, I hadn't been there before...... and me neither.

Photos courtesy Criminy Johnson.

Best Bushwick Tweets of the Week 8/14

08-14-2011 11:43 PM

Our newest installment!!! Beacause you can't read 'em all, I've decided to bring you the best Bushwick tweets of the week....

In third place.....

@wakest

Bushwick smells like fish

In second place.....

@Regan_Hofmann

Watching #mysocalledlife for fasion tips. I'm going to be the coolest kid in Bushwick.

And in first place and the winnah of the best tweet of the week is.....

@salboz

#overheard in my local grocery store in #bushwick "Dad, this grocery store sucks! They don't even have vegan cheese!"#bkgirlproblems

The King of Coal

08-11-2011 6:18 PM

The quiet streets surrounding the Halsey Street L can sometimes seem a bit too quiet. Once you pass the gigantic supermarket on Wyckoff and Putnam the shops start to thin out, the passersby seem to disappear and you might find yourself on the sidewalk alone.

Disoriented by the sudden drop in noise pollution and foot traffic, you might seek refuge under the trees of lovely Weirfield Street. Walking along you might come upon a little brick building set against a giant, darkened lot, full of small mountains and machinery that looks like it dates from the Gold Rush. You’ll have one of those all strange, “Wait, a minute, am I still in New York?”-moments as you come face-to-face with the home base of Bushwick’s own Coal King. [more]

Andrew Poma’s family has run Weirfield Coal (“Purveyors of Fine Fossil Fuels”) since 1948. The business itself has been operating since 1913. Andrew is a hospitable and energetic man, with a twinkle in his eye and a quick sense of humor. A very nice man for a very dirty business.

I stumbled upon Andrew earlier this week and he very kindly gave me a tour. As we walked around the coal yard, which occupies several lots and a sizable space on the other side of the street, Andrew described how the anthracite lumps are extracted from a mine in Pennsylvania. The digging, the explosions, the hollowing out of layers. He handed me a piece. The coal is beautiful--surprisingly so. A rough chunk from deep within the earth, jagged yet smooth. Slick and shiny, it has a gun-metal black skin that catches the sun like the film on an oil slick. Dangerously good-looking. But what of the mountain tops and the polluted streams? And who on earth needs coal in New Yorkin this day and age?

Andrew explained that most of his customers are third-generation...baking businesses. Say it ain’t so. The matzoh you share with the family on holy days, that takes you back to the Passovers of your youth? That thin pizza with its blistered crust and fine sprinkling of ash? The bread you love from that one bakery run by that sweet little Italian grandmother making Little Italy’s last stand? All frequently baked in coal-fired ovens

Nostalgia meet guilt, guilt meet nostalgia. They’re best friends in your environmentally conscious world.

Spanish for Hipsters [3rd installment]

08-09-2011 12:10 AM

1) I desgined it myself.

Lo diseñé yo mismo

2) Is this vegan?

¿Esto es vegano?

3) I'm looking for a roommate.

Estoy buscando un nuevo compañero

4) Do you have loosies?

Tiene usted un frajo?

5) Can I get my beard trimmed?

Puedo recortar mi barba?

New Home for the Odd Opens on Knickerbocker

08-03-2011 5:07 PM

A curious little shop opened just three days ago at 300 Knickerbocker Avenue. It’s called Second Time Around, and it’s a geek-tweaked mash-up of old and new. Old comic books share the space with jars of “addictive” artisanal salsa, a Cabbage Patch Kid smiles nervously behind a G.I. Joe thermos, and a carefully curated rack of secondhand T-shirts looms over neatly arranged piles of baby clothes. And all over the green and red walls are the riotous, graffiti-like paintings of Bizzid, the camera-shy proprietor.

Bizzid is a long-time Ridgewood resident who opened the shop as a way to supplement his artist’s income. He sells his own work at accessible prices and eventually hopes to carry affordable pieces by other artists. While the shop also carries some general housewares, its collection best reflects Bizzid’s love of cartoons, toys, comics and other things that are “quirky, weird or interesting” and always unique. “It’s almost like this shit seems to find me. People are always giving me strange things.”

The shop’s eclectic mix seems to me ill-served by its pedestrian name. That is, until Bizzid explains that ‘Second Time Around’ was also the name of the antiques shop owned by April O’Neil, the loyal friend of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Ah, now I get it.

Spanish for Hipsters [2nd installment]

07-30-2011 5:40 PM

So there you are in the only bodega on your block, and they don't speak a lick of English. What's a hipster to do? HOW AM I GOING TO ASK IF THEY CAN MAKE THE CUBANO SANDWICH VEGAN??? Well, here at The Bushwick Dream we have taken the time to tackle such burning questions.

1) This better be Fair Trade, cold pressed, single origin coffee with Brita ice cubes.

Mas vale que sea cafe de solo un origen, prensado en frio y de comercio justo con heilo Brita.

2) I don't eat there, they got a "b".

Yo no come aqui, ellos recibieron una "b".

3) Of course this is a fixed gear.

Claro que es un cambio fijado.

4) I just moved here from __________.

Me acabo de mudar aqui de __________.

5) Stop whistling at my girlfriend.

Deja de estar pitando a mi novia.

3 Questions [#5]

07-20-2011 11:50 PM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. Bushwick Dream puts random people on the spot. This time: Pamela R., and found at Pearl's Social and Billy Club

Why are you here?

I am getting drunk.

What’s the border of Bushwick, in your opinion?

"I would say...... I just moved here a week ago.... but I would say Bushwick Avenue and Bushwick Place and I"m strictly judging by the name."

What’s your weapon of choice?

Knife!

Bushwick Dream Interview: Tamar Builder, Wearable Personal Gardens

07-18-2011 11:32 PM

Is that a terrarium around your neck?
Why yes. Yes it is......

    Have you ever been sitting around and said to yourself, "Hey you know what would be awesome? If I could wear an itty-bitty terrarium around my neck." Yeah me neither, until I saw one, now I really, really want one.
In a small home studio in Bushwick a girl by the name of Tamar sits and tediously makes some of the oddly uniquest jewelery I’ve ever seen. Being a thirty-two year old male, I don’t know a lot about jewelry, but I do know when I see a work of art and this is definitely something special.
    Each piece of terrarium jewelry is unique and individually hand crafted by Tamar herself. They're made from variouos types of moss, pebbles, sea glass,activated charcoal (to help the plant life breath) and other such elements. She can also add things that are sentimental to you if it'll fit in the jar, or you can fully customize your own.
"In an urban world you can still maintain your own wearable garden" Tamar says with a content smile. You can water them and they'll even grow. If you don't they'll eventually die but they stay in tact and still look awesome. If you think it's dead you may still be in luck. You can give it a little water and it may come back to life, moss and lichens are funny like that.
    They can take anywhere from an hour to eight hours to make one depending on how intricate it is. They're also very reasonably priced. You can get yours at Littleworlddesigns.com or find her on etsy.com

Photos courtesy of Little World Designs

Bushwick Represent

07-17-2011 2:49 PM

Spanish for Hipsters [1st installment]

07-08-2011 10:48 PM

So there you are in the only bodega on your block, and they don't speak a lick of English. What's a hipster to do? HOW AM I GOING TO ASK IF THEY CAN MAKE THE CUBANO SANDWICH VEGAN??? Well, here at The Bushwick Dream we have taken the time to tackle such burning questions.

1) Where can I find the skinny jeans?

¿Dónde puedo encontrar los jeans apretado?

2) Its an obscure band, you’ve never heard of them.

Es una banda rara, nunca has escuchado sobre ellos.

3) Your rent is how much?

¿Su renta es cuanto?

4) Do you have a spare rolling paper?

¿Tiene usted un papel extra para rodar?

5) Yeah, my dog’s a rescue.

Sí, mi perro fue rescatado.

6) No, this is my parents credit card.

No, esta es la tarjeta de crédito de mis padres.

7) Does this come in plaid?

¿Esto viene en gaban?

8) I can’t make it, I’ve got band practice.

No lo puedo hacer, tengo práctica de la banda.

9) God I hate gentrification.

Dios, odio gentrificación.

10) So I’m thinking about applying to grad school.

Estoy pensando en solicitar a la escuela de posgrado.

Williamsburg Veteran Makes a New Home on the Ridge

07-07-2011 10:58 AM

Fred Valentine's salt-and-pepper hair easily betrays his status as an O.G. of the New York art scene. In the nineties, long before the condos came, he helped to create art and performance happenings in Williamsburg under the names Organism and Mustard. A mix of art, performance, and music mayhem, they were the forebears of the warehouse events now publicized by the likes of Nonsense NYC. Fred’s involvement in this scene climaxed in 1995 when he co-founded Galapagos Art Space in its old guise on N. 6th street. Unfortunately it didn't take very long before he and his cohorts were priced out of the scene that they helped to start. But now Freddy’s back to launch VALENTINE Gallery in Ridgewood--Bushwick's quieter, better-looking cousin. Just don't call him a pioneer. [more]

"I don't like the term pioneer. I moved out here to see if I could be welcomed into this neighborhood, to make sure that I did everything that I could to be welcomed into this neighborhood...and at some point, to flex my own muscle."

To be sure, VALENTINE will be just the latest addition to the Ridgewood art scene. Spaces like Famous Accountants, English Kills and Outpost have already made a name for themselves. Fred tells me that he’s not looking to compete with other local galleries, but rather to create an environment where “everybody wins. I have a big agenda here, with no agenda.”

We’re sitting in the future gallery space. It’s small--much smaller than the vast warehouse spaces that he once had. Ladders and buckets of paint suggest the preparations being made for Friday’s grand opening, but for now the walls of this former knitting factory-turned-meatpacking plant-turned-Mexican brothel are bare, waiting for its latest incarnation. Fred is sipping a chilled glass of white wine. With his white linen shirt, tobacco-colored khakis and silver goatee he looks more like an aging Hollywood producer than the ringmaster of Williamsburg’s original avant-garde carnivals. Yet he speaks with the energy of a rookie boxer on his first night in the ring.

“The art schools crank out these artists and, my God, they can't afford to live this boho life, they've just got to pay those goddamned [loans] off! As a result of it you see a lot of art that…looks like homework. Because they don't really have the time to exorcise those art school demons. I hope to somehow address that by possibly just selling a few pieces or saying you can show in this space without thinking ‘I have to sell.’ It's always a challenge, but I think it's going to be a hoot. I'm looking forward to it!”

While he tells me that he “ain’t in competition with nobody”, Fred’s plan to consistently feature works in the $500-$1,000 range may help him stand out to buyers and aspiring artists alike.

“If [an artist] could every once in a while get a check for $500…it helps out, helps pay the bills. And that's sort of what I want to do because I think that that aspect has been totally ignored. That we make things that we could sell for 500 bucks. I booked a show of quality stuff that's not going to depreciate in value and you're going to love that you freakin’ bought it!”

The opening show is called Summer Collage. It will feature works by Michael Chandler (“a really good painter but I love his collage”), Casey Loose (who assists Fred Tommaselli), Tim Spelios and two local gallerists who, like Fred, also keep a studio practice--Ellen Letcher and Kevin Regan of Famous Accountants. VALENTINE’s roster is booked pretty solidly until March of next year; upcoming shows will feature artists like Jane Dickson and Andrew Moszynski.

Fred elaborates on his curatorial philosophy: “I want to see what the hell's happening after people get a few years out of art school and really start shedding, exorcising that art school demon and start making things that are…their own. The worst piece of art you can find is made by someone who knows how to make a piece of art. If it looks like art and smells like art and tastes like art, guess what? It ain't. Give it to someone else, I want nothing to do with it.”

Though he’s very excited about the prospects for VALENTINE, the long-term Ridgewood resident also fears the changes that people drawn to a burgeoning art scene might wreak. His Williamsburg experience has left psychic scars and, like a war veteran with PTSD, he’s fearful of the increasing signs of gentrification popping up in the Ridge. At one point he compares the encroaching hipsters to “Norwegian rats.”

"I see those little expensive little stores, and those expensive little restaurants…to me it's the very same thing as seeing a Kmart or a Wal-mart in the neighborhood. Christ, there are these people moving in here making it look just like they want it to look and it bothers the hell out me, it really does. It bothers me."

It’s a familiar New York phenomenon. Find a so-called undiscovered neighborhood, move there and then kvetch about how all the other people coming after you are ruining things. Fred knows that he risks sounding--in his words--like a “curmudgeonly old fart”. The next day he sends me an e-mail saying that some of his responses may have seemed a bit harsh. Yet his basic view doesn’t waver.

“I sweep in front of my building, pick up after my dog, shoot the shit on the corner and show the bottle people the same respect and greeting as anyone else. That's how I meet my neighbors. My point is I don't show up in a neighborhood and look to fix it or make it fit me when the me is the overwhelming minority.”

It reads like a creed, a vow of chastity to the soul of old New York. Or the rueful words of a reluctant pioneer who knows that it's already too late.

Summer Collage will open at the VALENTINE Gallery (464 Seneca Avenue) on Friday, July 8 at 6pm. The show runs through July 31.

Bushwick Artist Feature: Don Pablo Pedro

07-05-2011 10:06 PM

We asked local artist Don Pablo Pedro a few questions, and here’s what we think Bushwick Dream readers need to know. He had a solo show at Pandemic Gallery called “Fuck Don Pablo Pedro.” When describing the painted scenes in which characters “devour and violate each other,” Animal New York asked, “what the hell is wrong with this guy?”

On muslin scrolls Don Pablo Pedro depicts deformed, tormented grotesques who have extra arms and/or heads and/or vaginas, then adds delicate flourishes--floral borders rendered in meticulous detail: “Go Fuck Yourself” (see the guy in yellow, below) and Peony Cream Pie (also below) are two examples. Two of Don Pablo Pedro’s scrolls are part of the Stay Gold show at Curbs & Stoops. The closing party is Friday. Go see them.

The Bushwick Dream (TBD): Where are you from and what kind of place is it?

Don Pablo Pedro (DPP): The Middle of nowhere. It’s hot, there's a beach, lots of woods and elderly people.

TBD: What do you do?

DPP: Paint scrolls.

TBD: How did you end up in Bushwick?

DPP: A plane.

TBD: Do you see painting as a creative process or as a release?

DPP: It starts off as a creative process and ends with a release.

TBD: What's the process like for you as you're working: are you calm, manic, chaotic, do you need silence, music.

DPP: My process is usually calm and silent at first. I’m always a little manic and life can be very chaotic at times. I only sometimes listen to music.

TBD: People have called the Stay Gold show creepy: is that a compliment? How do people usually describe your work?

DPP: “Creepy” is a compliment but people usually describe my art as “perverted.”

TBD: Any stories about misinterpretations of your work?

DPP: I usually enjoy any type of interpretation; when people take the time to interpret I’m happy.

TBD: I love your bio, which is written as a folktale in which you rape and kill your mutilated brother. Did he have it coming? What'd he do?

DPP: I just made up a story that I felt described the paintings I do.

TBD: “Go Fuck Yourself” has this floral border that includes vagina-esque flowers. Are they happy vaginas or are they evil?

DPP: In “Go Fuck Yourself” the flowers were more of buttholes to me.

TBD: In both “Go Fuck Yourself” and “Face Sitter” seem to depict people who are, in the moment, not quite getting what they want. Do they ever live happily ever after?

DPP: They are in constant struggle. There is no happy ever after for the characters in those paintings.

TBD: What's next?

DPP: Everything.

Artist photo courtesy of Will Star of Shooting Stars Pro, taken at Crest Hardware Art Show 2011.

Whoooooops!

07-01-2011 7:11 PM

Imagine this.........

You're finishing up the end of your work day, looking forward to the three day weekend. You're dreaming of that ice cold Coors, the perfectly flamed hamburger with ketchup and pickles, that one joint you smoke a year because the company you work for has random drug tests and the spectacular fireworks display........ THEN WHAM!!!!!!!! It just goes straight down the tubes.

(The scenerio above is fictional, and any similarities to similar events, people or other ridiculousness is purely coincidental and hysterical)

Shepard Fairey: It's not street art in a museum, you fucking moron!.

06-28-2011 6:01 PM

We caught Shepard and his crew in the act of installing a gigantic new Obey poster on Waterbury & Scholes. Although his most recent interview didn't go so well Shepard, man that he is, stepped up to the plate to answer a few questions for the Bushwick Dream.

So why this piece and why here?

Well, I'm friends with Jay Leritz who is one of the owners of Yummus Hummus. He and I knew each other when we lived in San Diego. He told me that this building was an open spot and of course I noticed that there are a lot of musicians in this neighborhood and that there's this metal venue right across the street [Acheron]. And I DJ, and I've been doing this series as a tribute to the record cover format, the square format, so I thought this would make sense. And I also had the measurements and it worked, mathematically. So, yeah. You turn your limitations into assets. I always like to do big stuff outdoors, if I can. I think this is a good spot, I like this neighborhood.

What else do you have planned while you're in New York?

I'm in town until the 6th. I've done a little bit here and there, some opportunities have presented themselves and I have some other walls lined up, some in Brooklyn and some in Manhattan. Obviously some of my assistants from L.A. are here helping. I'd rather just have it be a surprise, have people stumble on it than say where it's going to be. Some things fall through and some new things pop up. But we're gonna be in public art mode right now.

What do you think about Brooklyn Museum pulling the plug on the Art in the Streets exhibit that they were planning to have this year? They said it was for financial reasons, but there's some suspicion that that wasn't quite the full story.

You know I don't know, I haven't heard anything other than that it was for financial reasons. I am friends with one of the curators there and she was really excited about doing it. And they've done other graffiti shows in the past, so I don't know, I don't see why this one would be more problematic politically than any of the other ones. I do know that it's an expensive show to put together, L.A. MoCA was barely was able to fund it, with sponsorship. So, it could be legit, who knows.

It's disappointing when you think of New York being a real birthplace, in a lot of ways, of the graffiti and street art movement. Even though of course it's expanded to a lot of cities around the globe. You know, it's an important place for the show to be seen and I hope it makes it to a few other cities, but it was a major accomplishment in L.A. and I'm happy for that.

I'm grateful for anything that happens that puts a good group of artists together and shows what they're doing. A lot of the commentary that I hear is, "Well, you know, what do you think about the de-clawing or de-fanging of street art by putting it in a museum?" Well, first of all, it's not street art in a museum, you fucking moron. It's art, it's just art. Street art is on the street. I'm so sick of that shit. You know, I still do street art, everybody that calls themselves a street artist should still do street art. Otherwise you're just an artist, but it's fine to use a lot of different platforms for art. You know, it's totally narrow-minded to say that art's only legitimate in galleries and museums, and it's just as narrow-minded to say it's only legitimate outdoors. Those things, anything that's about unhealthy boxes or categories that people want to put things in because they want to be a gatekeeper in that category--it's about them and their ego, it's not about a thriving dialogue about the power of art, so, fuck that shit!

3 Questions [#4]

06-28-2011 1:24 AM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. Bushwick Dream puts random people on the spot. This time: Brent H., hailing from Chapel Hill, NC. and found at Pearl's Social and Billy Club

Why are you here?

I'm in Bushwick just returning from London after working there for ten years as a photographer and there are reasonably priced shooting spaces here. You can see my work at brenthelsel.com.

What’s the border of Bushwick, in your opinion?

Williamsburg and..... well actually, I have no idea.

What’s your weapon of choice?

My camera, because I can catch my people at their best...... or their worst.

Bushwick Bicycle Clubs

06-20-2011 8:54 AM

On summer days Brooklyn turns into Throwback City. The block parties, the front-stoop playgrounds, the gushing fire hydrants--it's like walking through a Helen Levitt picture. Nowadays Bushwick is also looking more like it did in the years B.C. (Before Condos). Never more so than when the gentlemen of the various Puerto Rican bicycle clubs throw open their garage doors. There are at least three different such clubs in Bushwick where middle-aged (mostly male) members congregate over brews and seriously blinged-out vintage bikes. This weekend we encountered the boys of the Pa-La Loma Club on Harman Street. Learn more about the PR bicycle clubs of New York here and here.

3 Questions [#3]

06-15-2011 9:45 AM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. Bushwick Dream puts random people on the spot. This time: Justin P., hailing from L.A. and found on Jefferson St. bet. Irving and Wyckoff.

Why are you here?

I moved here from L.A. to be a fine illustrator.

What’s the border of Bushwick, in your opinion?

That’s a hard one, because I just moved here from around the Montrose L. Hmm...I would say between the Morgan and Montrose L stops.

What’s your weapon of choice?

I’m a pacifist. I guess I’d say...the pencil!

Matt Silver Wants to Open Your Love Portal

06-09-2011 12:24 PM

A bearded man in his thirties skips across the gum-speckled sidewalks of Myrtle-Broadway. “Batman on Broadway!” he announces at-large, his voice echoing under the elevated subway tracks.

He flails about in a superhero costume and does a leaping kick in the air. His funny noises are interspersed with sweeping statements about love. He runs in place, dances, jumps and crouches ninja-style. He’s light on his feet, but the effect is more Disney than Marvel Comics. Some pedestrians stop and stare, others keep walking. A dozen cellphone cameras are whipped out and by evening his antics will be up on Youtube.

Thus ends my encounter with Bushwick-based performance artist Matt Silver. An hour before this we sat in a local café and discussed his work over glasses of strawberry juice.

“When I perform I really want to tap into the heart of it. The heart of it is, I want to make you laugh.”

I wonder about what the members of his regular Broadway audience really think. After all, his “stage” is within walking distance to the mental hospital on Flushing Ave. Don’t you ever feel shy, I ask him?

“Sometimes I feel shy. Like right now....”

As he speaks his hazel eyes twinkle and his hands make opera-like gestures, but in between questions he seems as bashful as a four-year old. The thing with Matt is you’re never quite sure whether he’s performing or not. But according to him he’s always performing.

“When I was younger I was inspired to stay on, like all the time. I was inspired to be this other character.” He tells me that his parents eventually got used to it.

You might be tempted to dismiss Matt as just another New York street performer. To do so would be to miss his most engaging works--the steady stream of mini-epic films that he writes and stars in. Titles like Heartpocalypse and Love Comes Out of Your Butt are shot on location and include a sizeable cast and crew. (Some of his most memorable scenes included actors dressed as giant sheaves of corn stilt-walking under the Broadway el.) The fantastical films have a great cinematic flair. A recurring character is Man in White Dress: Matt as a misanthrope in a thrift-store wedding gown trying to spread a message of love.

“Love is a universal theme. It’s a good mythic adventure, like the search for the holy grail. For me it’s called the love portal. It’s the search for the love portal, to open it up. That would be amazing.”

He then tells me that his next film will involve a three-headed monster. His larger goals are just as ambitious.

“My project is to become that mythological clown character. I don’t know, over these years, one of the reasons I street-perform is because like I want to become a mythic hero. That would be fun before I’m dead. I mean, it would just be fun, you know? Becoming like a mythic clown. And just use it to make people laugh. I’m gonna do that.”

Back on the street Matt dashes across the heavy traffic on Broadway to take up a new post next to Popeye’s Chicken. He struts and crouches, jumps and dances. Some spectators call out, “Hey Batman!” and dance along with him. “Love is all you need!” he shouts.

3-way Street

06-08-2011 9:52 PM

We all know how potentially dangerous the streets of NYC are as motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians alike constantly flaunt traffic laws, but just to further illustrate here is a fantastic video by NYC resident Ron Gabriel showing the dangerous game we all play.

We're ready for our close up Mr. Deville........

06-08-2011 5:17 PM

Today if you drove down Flushing Ave you may have seen two men with three large dice. One shuffling them around in the ninty-five degree heat and the other across the street taking pictures in a four hundred degree black Jeep. Ad Deville's new project is a little stop action video that will be available here soon. It will be of these dice depicting the Bushwick autonym rolling around and looking basically awesome.

And the result:

Vortex store closing, giving away everything.

06-08-2011 9:14 AM

Located on 222 Montrose, directly off of the L train stop, The Vortex apparently has seen its last days. According to a craigslist ad the junk store will be opening its doors on Fri, June 10th 2-4pm to give away all of its eclectic mix of books, clothing, and mass collection of knick knacks. If you are lucky enough to be around and not working this is the perfect chance to gather up some fun goodies for the price of nothing.

Photo from Yelp

Pro Tips from Bushwick Open Studios: Julia Colavita

06-07-2011 9:45 AM

The funny thing about BoS--or indeed any sort of open studios event--is that the artists participating can't go around and play visitor at other artists’ studios. So Bushwick Dream did the legwork for you. Here are some pearls of wisdom we observed from your comrades.

Free is good. Julia Colavita makes ethereal, airy sculptures and paintings that combine chance-driven methods with intricate line work. The results are as fragile and as beautiful as the human body. From her comes our final and most practical tip: how to score free acrylic paints, direct from the factory, without breaking the law.

3 Questions [#2]

06-06-2011 9:40 PM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. Bushwick Dream put random people on the spot. This time: Mike F. (Originally from Sandusky, OH) found at The Pine Box Rock Shop.

Why are you here?

I run an educational program..... and let's be honest...... the women.

What's the boder of Bushwick, in your opinion?

They're mentally created and changing every day.

What's you weapon of choice?

(Laughs heartily) The pen (is).

Cathy Choi and her vision

06-06-2011 5:20 PM

Hidden away inside a buliding on Stewart Avenue where the hallways smell of fresh paint there is an artist with one hell of a vision. Cathy Choi has only been doing these pieces for about five months but her work clearly shows she has a serious eye for making something new and truly unique. Cathy's art is as if somehow she freeze framed the moment when a multi colored ocean wave breaks against the beach and it's truly stunning. With no predisposed idea of what it's going to end up looking like when it's completed, she mixes resin, glue and oil together (the recipe proportions and technique is highly gaurded) then with less than thirty-five minutes to finish due to the drying time she has a piece of artwork that Mother Nature herself would look at and say, "Goddamn."

Pro Tips from Bushwick Open Studios: Delphine Diallo

06-06-2011 8:45 AM

Mine your heritage--or someone else’s. Photographer and mixed-media artist Delphine Diaw Diallo is a Parisian with Senegalese heritage. While she has found inspiration in travels to her ancestral home of Senegal, she’s also been to places as exotic as Montana. Her Great Vision series was made on the Crow Indian Reservation, home every year to the world’s largest family reunion.

Pro Tips from Bushwick Open Studios: Nate Anspaugh

06-05-2011 1:39 PM

Take pieces of the city, but don’t let the city take pieces of you. Nate Anspaugh came to New York six years ago with the intention, like many transplants, to have his own piece of the Apple. He took this literally and found himself tearing off and taking home the posters he found around town. Soon this expanded to the unavoidable advertisements that clog up our mental and physical space. Nate transforms these fragments into masks, commenting on on how our personae--the masks we wear--are being more and more shaped by media and a juggernaut consumer culture.

Pro Tips from Bushwick Open Studios: Cojo

06-05-2011 10:54 AM

Pro Tip: Be organized and make big plans. I took one look at Cojo’s workspace and wanted to invite him to organize my closets. This, my friends, is the mark of a productive mind. Even more impressive is his ambitious project wherein he made a new sketch--in his signature thick outline style--everyday for a whole year. Now he will combine the elements of these drawings into a series of ten 8-foot paintings. A great way to ensure that the art keeps coming.

BOS Sneak Peek: Olivié Ponce

06-04-2011 12:33 PM

Olivié Ponce works in the sun. His landscapes, inspired by the scenes of Mexico City, are abstracted. The hard lines of buildings, streets and poles have become organic and ghost like, fading into the distance as if in a thick fog. Detail is not his concern but rather distance and depth, creating worlds vaguely familiar as if from a long forgotten dream.

His space will be open June 4th, noon - 6pm.

Outdoor photos courtesy of Olivié Ponce.

We don’t need no stinkin’ L train

06-04-2011 9:29 AM

Not even the vagaries of the MTA’s maintenance schedule could stop the 5th annual Bushwick Open Studios from getting off to a cracking start. Did you check out Curbs and Stoops Active Spaces and their 3 curated rooms, including “Stay Gold” by Throwaway Art and our own lovely Robin Grearson? Did you watch CA Conrad get smashed between two giant heels at Brooklyn Fireproof’s YR Friday Nite? Did you find the pot of gold left for you by Hack Interactive? Finally, did you heave with the sweaty masses at the official BoS Launch Party at Pinebox Rock Shop? No? Well, you've two more days to redeem yourself. Get to it!

BOS Sneak Peek: Maciek Jasik

06-03-2011 1:33 PM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

We live in an age of hyperreality and are constantly being fed the details of other people’s lives. But as photographer Maciek Jasik says, “details can be a red herring to think you know someone.” The portraits in his Bypassing the Rational series take another approach--using swirling, dreamlike colors to transmit a feeling of mystery that envelops the subject and draws in the viewer. Visit him for his BOS debut at 1609 Dekalb Avenue (2F).

BOS Sneak Peek: Jessica Angel

06-03-2011 10:18 AM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

Columbia born artist Jessica Angel plays with the building blocks of information, breaking down our forms of communication to their abstract vessels. She strips language, maps, and cityscapes of there meaning, opting to utilize their form and visual strength; rebuilding and redefining. 300 characters become a picture thats worth a 1000 words. Think about that.

Jessica Angel will be sharing her space all three days of BOS; June3 - 5th, noon - 7pm.

BOS Sneak Peek: Jon Lewis

06-02-2011 3:51 PM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

Indecision can be a blessing. Jon Lewis loved both painting and photography, and found it difficult to choose either. He now melds the two by using gum bichromate, a painterly photographic technique from the 19th century. Visit Jon during his first BOS to see these timeless yet thoroughly modern portraits (85 Meserole Street).

BOS Sneak Peek: Adam Distenfield

06-02-2011 11:09 AM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

Adam Distenfield takes only what the earth gives him, sculpting large rocks donated to him by construction sites. His Brooklyn Rockwerks studio on 129 Noll Street is a shelter for the unloved boulders edged out in the name of progress. Go visit him this weekend to see how he's breathing new life into New York’s native granite. (P.S.: Be sure to check out his amazing roof garden!)

BOS Preview: Yr Friday Nite

06-02-2011 10:29 AM

We headed over to Brooklyn Fire Proof to get some pictures of the installation of art for Fireside Follies' Yr Friday Nite, and discovered there was a slight delay in installation, so we couldn't get the sneak peek we wanted to show you. But we did get a chance to talk with co-curators Eric Nelson and Mike Lala about the Follies' Friday night plans, and here's what Mike told The Bushwick Dream.

Q. Fireside Follies began as a reading series but it's expanded into other creative areas. What is it now?

A. Fireside is now "Yr Friday Nite," a multidisciplinary, immersive arts event, where we take the Brooklyn Fire Proof space we normally use and fill it with fine art and projections, then do a reading, have performance and video screenings, and host musicians in the midst of it. I think people will really get an amazing sense of how many different kinds of talented artists there are in Bushwick, and there really will be nothing else like this at Bushwick Open Studios this year.

Q. Have you been part of Bushwick Open Studios events in the past? What can we expect for this one?

A. Yes, last year we hosted a reading at Northeast Kingdom. This will be 10 times bigger than that.

Q: You're not reading at your own events, but you're both writers. Why not?

A. We thought about it, and then thought about it again. It just seems a little crass to perform at your own events. We know people who do it, and they do have wonderful events, but Eric and I have made the decision to not do it this season, in order to give other writers the opportunity to read.

Q: So what is going on with your own writing lately?

A. I just finished assembling a chapbook of poems that will be out on Knickerbocker Circus in June. Eric's working on a novel that he's sending out to agents and publishers, and I'm 30-ish Word pages into a new poetry manuscript.

Q. It's finally getting warm lately. Have you considered changing the name to Poolside Follies?

Find us a pool. We're there.

Q. Anything else coming up?

I just got word that I'll be curating a reading for the New York Poetry Society's festival out on Governor's Island later in July, so stay tuned!

Fireside Follies
YR Friday Nite
Brooklyn Fire Proof
119 Ingraham St.

More event info, here and here.

BOS Sneak Peek: Waterboard Spa

06-02-2011 9:36 AM

A sly, mischievous entry in the BOS directory came to our attention and we just needed to know more about the "Waterboard Spa" that will be set up on Morgan on Saturday. Here's what Waterboard Spa co-conspirator Dolan Morgan told us.

Q. Waterboarding? Who's doing it, and for god's sake, why?

A. The Waterboard Spa is providing this luxurious service free of charge, for one day only! Why? Because our spa is dedicated to the health and wellness of every patron. We offer the most exquisite comfort imaginable, both spiritually and physically, and we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience true relaxation.

Q. How does it work?

Our brochure has this to say:

What will my session be like?

Lie down on a board and place a specially-designed, extremely soft, high-thread count cloth over your face.
Receive a complimentary hand massage and/or manicure from a dedicated professional.
Waterboard yourself using the sprinkler pot of soothing spring waters.
Control the level and intensity of the experience by adjusting the angle of your arm and wrist as though they’re levers or buttons attached to a machine that is bigger than you.
When you are ready, receive your pre-written truth on a crisp, wallet-ready business card.

And, as always, our Waterboard Lite is available for people in a hurry.

Q. What happens if someone dies by accident?

A. At our spa, there are no accidents! Everything is custom-tailored to ensure a rich, fulfilling, and --most importantly -- safe experience. Of course, any patron that is unsatisfied is entitled to a full refund of the special Bushwick Open Studios $0 entrance fee, but we are confident that we can accommodate the diverse needs of everyone.

Q. Are you using the same water all day? If so, doesn't that mean people should show up early to get the clean NYC torture-water?

A. Every last drop of our water is drawn from fresh, all-American springs, replenished after every use! Cool, refreshing waters are the backbone of our comfort system, and no expense is spared. All water waste is recycled in an eco-friendly manner through NYC's sanitation department.

Q. How many people do you think will go for it? Fewer than 10? Or are we talking about a line around the block?

We have many patrons booked in advance, but we're expecting to accept walk-ins as well. Our mobile receptionist will be roving the block to receive and schedule appointments all afternoon. Complimentary hoods will be provided in the waiting area to block out stimuli and reduce anxiety.

Q. The L-train will be down all weekend and you're going to be in front of the Morgan stop. Did you think about moving over to a bus stop instead? Isn't riding the L-train shuttle kind of like torture?

There's no better way to cool off after a tortuous shuttle ride than a quick waterboarding. The commute might be annoying, but we think discovering new personal truths through the euphoric act of simulated drowning is worth the effort!

Q. Hand massages. Explain.

They feel really nice! And so will you.

Q. Whose idea was this and who else is joining you in your group of torturers?

Torture is not only illegal but also immoral, and it will not be tolerated at the Waterboard Spa, at which all of the staff are dedicated wellness professionals intent on helping a weary public achieve balance in their environment. More literature on the science and enlightenment of the ancient art of waterboarding will be available at the event.

Details:

Waterboard Spa

Saturday, June 4th

12 - 4:30 pm

Bogart Street between Varet and Moore

contact: waterboardspa@gmail.com

BOS Sneak Peek: Lisa Corinne Davis

06-02-2011 8:42 AM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

Nestled away in her studio in Bushwick, long time NYC resident Lisa Corinne Davis creates the topography of self. Touching on race and identity, her paintings' underlining geometric structures give rise to chaotic organic shapes and color. The myriad of forms contained within are familiar yet defy definition, with a semblance of microbes, plant life and crystalline formations. A look at a Lisa Corinne Davis painting could just as easily be a view through a microscope as a look out of a plane window. These maps of self contain no key, no markers, no hints of scale. Try not to get lost.

She will be sharing her space on June 4-5th, noon-7pm.

BOS Sneak Peek: The BluBox

06-01-2011 11:37 PM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

The BluBox is a place where alchemy is performed. Within its cavernous space three internationally known artists Peter Simon Mühlhäußer, John O’Reilly and Stephen Shaheen bind material, process, expression and form. The result is a collection of sculptures beautiful in execution and evocative in subject. This is certainly a place where one can go to marvel. The BluBox will be sharing their space Fri - Sun, noon - 7pm.

BOS Sneak Peek: Gavin Sewell

06-01-2011 2:17 PM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

Gavin Sewell makes mixed media pieces on canvas in studio 409 at 119 Ingraham Street. Sand, plaster, paint, photographs, magazine fragments--these are just some of the materials he uses to create his richly textured pieces. Gavin is “aiming for longevity”--the longer you look, the more surprises you’ll discover in each piece.

3 Questions [#1]

06-01-2011 7:52 AM

A stranger is just a friend that you haven’t met yet. Bushwick Dream put random people on the spot. This time: Michael D., found at Little Skips.

Why are you here?

I’ve been here for 5 years. I came out to New York for school and I actually graduated from Pratt Institute in architecture a week ago. I actually moved out to Bushwick this year, I was living in Bed-Stuy the past 4 years.

What’s the border of Bushwick, in your opinion?

I..think that there is a border that’s formed on Broadway. I guess that’d be the Bed-Stuy border? And then between here and Williamsburg, I don’t really know, like I’ve no idea!

What’s your weapon of choice?

My weapon of choice....what would my weapon of choice be? That’s a funny question...I would probably say my camera actually!

BOS Sneak Peek: Factory Fresh

05-31-2011 9:18 PM

Factory Fresh is not messing around when it comes to their plans for the upcoming BOS. Inside their walls goes up their newest show Surrealism, curated in conjunction with Jason Andrew of Norte Maar, featuring a staggering 20 artists as they delve into their unconscious. And just ouside on Vandervoort Pl they will be showcasing their proposed Bushwick Art Park complete with a street art sculpture garden. There is a lot of major preparation in the works. Here is an inside look at whats going up:

BOS Sneak Peek: Carolanne Leslie

05-31-2011 8:27 AM

As the days count down to Bushwick Open Studios our neighborhood is buzzing with creative energy. The people are at work. Art is being made.

Carolanne Leslie has surrounded herself with glass. Scouring the streets for broken window panes, smashed bottles and cups, she builds portals of fragmented light and color; gateways into self fused with chakra energy and resin. What is broken, rebuilt. What is solid dances with fluidity.

Carolanne Leslie will be opening her studio on Sunday June 5th, noon-7pm, and will be enacting a multimedia performance; Muladhara on the corner of Jefferson St and St Nicholas at 2pm. You should go.

Find Art Magazine mobile gallery in Bushwick

05-28-2011 6:55 PM

If you are reading this now you've already missed it. Last evening for a period of a couple hours California based Find Art Magazine opened their mobile art gallery to the people of Bushwick as part of their nation wide tour. Their custom-made truck unfolded to reveal some incredible artwork, and their most recent issue was being handed out; a pocket sized mag stuffed with vibrant photos of art, and great articles and interviews. They will be in NYC for the rest of the day, so go find them.

Pay attention to the light poles

05-23-2011 6:00 PM

While the walls of this neighborhood are the domain of artists, it is the light polls that are fair game for all and may truely reflect Bushwick and its people. Treated almost as vertical community boards, these steel columns are where the people go to advertise, connect, share ideas and art, and find that missing cat. Next time you're waiting at that traffic light, just take a look. You may find something interesting.

Below are a few poles spotting during a short stroll through Bushwick.

Girls with Gunz

05-22-2011 3:12 PM

"While wandering during this week of rain and rapture, I was lucky enough to stumble across these ... wheatpastes around Bushwick, Brooklyn. Young girls carrying some heavy shit. While the concept could easily look cheesy, they instead are quite striking, due to their realism, and the piercing expression in the girl's eyes. The jeans skirt and the pajama onesie are comforting images of innocence, but the bandanas betray our assumptions. I like to think of them as our lost idealism taking us to task."

Content via Throw Away Art

The Mother Ship lands at English Kills

05-15-2011 1:24 PM

Last night(5-14) English Kills Gallery opened to reveal The Mother Ship; a diverse collection of art from twenty members of the English Kills family and friends. It was a fulfilling night through aesthetics and libations.

Show runs till June 19th English Kills 114 Forrest St. Ground Floor Brooklyn, NY 11206

Aftermath of Bushwick shooting

05-12-2011 5:17 PM

As you may have heard, last night gun shoots rang out on Knickerbocker as an undercover police officer killed a gun trafficker. The NYPD immediately went to work shutting down the surrounding neighborhood. It seems that their first action was to come down on a bbq taking place on Jefferson St., grabbing everyone of Latin persuasion at gunpoint as fellow neighbors scrambled to gather the children of those being detained. Everyone was lined up, thoroughly searched and questioned. After about an hour all were released. No arrests were made.

As a side note, while shooting these photos I was grabbed by the police and was told I could not do so without a "license". This is false. In NYC it is legal to take pictures of an officer or a police action at any time, no matter what bullshit they tell you.

Signs of things to come....

05-01-2011 10:32 PM

Today in the back courtyard of Factory Fresh Brooklyn based sculptor/street artist known as Leon Reid IV and his associate known simply as "Joe" are putting together something uniquely engaging. It's all part of the driving force behind Bushwick Art Park and a show opening on May 7 at New Museum called, Festival of Ideas for a New City. Here's a sneak peak....

Famous Accountants bring Matthew Miller

05-01-2011 1:36 PM

Last night Famous Accountants opened up with their newest offering, the magic black of an open barn door on a really sunny summer day, when you just cannot see into it by Matthew Miller; a collection of exquisite, haunting self portraits that follow you with their eyes as you move through the space. The work is certainly worth a look but not for too long or you risk having nightmares. Show runs till June 5th Famous Accountants 1673 Gates Avenue, Bushwick BK

Dark Horse opens at Factory Fresh

04-30-2011 12:21 PM

Last night (4/29) Factory Fresh put a grin on the people of Bushwick with their first opening of the year; Dark Horse by Sweet Toof, a showing of chompers galore. Now remember, floss.

East London Dark Horse Arrives in Bushwick

04-28-2011 9:36 AM

If you pass by Vandevoort Place often enough, you may already know two things: 1. You’re not in Kansas anymore, and 2., Sweet Toof is in town.

The artist known for his signature hot-pink gums and gleaming choppers (with gold tooth) painted what he called his longest row of teeth ever across a building nearly a block long this week. In doing so, he covered the “You’re Not In Kansas Anymore” roll-down painted by Skewville in the same space during a block party last November. This isn’t Sweet Toof’s first visit to Brooklyn, or Bushwick; he’s hit walls and roofs on previous visits, and a couple years ago sunk his teeth into the entrance of Ad Hoc’s space, when it was Ad Hoc’s space. But what’s brought him back to Bushwick this time is his first New York solo exhibition, Dark Horse, which opens Friday at Factory Fresh.

I sat in the gallery’s studio with the artist talking about his new work. The series of classic oil paintings reflect Sweet Toof’s fine-art training and nod to 16th century Vanitas paintings. The classical settings feature modern themes that playfully reference what the artist dubs “the Battle of the Buff.” His characters, well-dressed skeletons who sport the familiar bubble-gum-pink gums and teeth, engage in polo-field battles on horseback with paint rollers. Sometimes characters are invading Trojan-horse style, striving heroically to bring color and lightness to drab, colorless environments; in other scenes, a painter dodges the vandal squad, skeleton horse replacing the modern bicycle as the mode of escape. The skulls and skeletons convey his affection for Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions, which feature skulls as symbols of life and rebirth, but are also a gesture of respect for friends who have passed away.

An art teacher once told Sweet Toof, “the only thing about art is that you never retire,” but the warning was more an inducement than a deterrent for the artist, who’s been engaged in his own battle of the buff since writing his first tag in ’86. What began as letterforms and characters evolved into drawing and comics, and led him to art school, but he never stopped painting in the streets. In fact, the signature Sweet Toof gums and teeth didn’t start showing up around London and other cities until around 2005.

One inevitable consequence of waging a decades-long battle is that the artist is shy and cautious about his name and image, a caution that sometimes even prevents him from attending his own openings. And Sweet Toof’s concern for privacy has likely only increased since footage of him with friends (and now-former crew) Burning Candy was included in Exit Through the Gift Shop.

Despite the risks, Sweet Toof likely won’t give up painting in the streets anytime soon, if ever. He says looking for a spot is primal, and compares the search to an animal’s hunting instinct. Moonlight, danger and adrenaline mix in with a street artist’s paint to become elements of the final painting as much as the pigment itself. As the art teacher said, you never retire from art. But unlike gallery art, street art is a habit that becomes harder and harder to pursue, a predicament even Sweet Toof concedes has him slowing down--a little; walking more, running less. “I’m not as crazy as I used to be, I’ve got a lot more to lose these days.”

Four days before the opening, the Factory Fresh space seems to be nearly ready. The long outside wall is finished, as is a set of teeth that completely covers the walls of the gallery’s outdoor alcove space; the interior doorways are similarly painted, creating a tunnel of teeth. The canvases, which were shipped from Sweet Toof’s East London home base and stretched on frames in the gallery’s studio, are already hanging in place. There are plans to re-stretch one large canvas, but otherwise the artist hopes prep work will be wrapped up soon, so he will have a couple of days before the opening to relax, check out the neighborhood.

We walk outside and take his picture in front of a set of teeth and gums much larger than himself. As he conceals his face behind a plastic Halloween cow-mask and a masquerade-ball-style Sweet Toof row of teeth & gums, I ask if he’ll be doing other collaborations around the neighborhood while he’s in town. His face changes, and he looks anxious and hopeful, very much the self-described graffaholic who’s been at it since he was 13. He looks up at our fickle spring sky, which has turned gray and looks vaguely London-y. “Weather depending,” he says, smiling. Dark Horse, by Sweet Toof Opening April 29, 2001, 7-10 PM Closing May 22, 2011 Factory Fresh 1053 Flushing Avenue Bushwick, Brooklyn By Robin Grearson For shots of the up coming show see below:

Die Hipster, a video game

04-08-2011 2:59 PM

Fresh from the mad genius web designers at Wefail comes Die Hipster, a humorous and interesting web game that centers on single hipster and his goal of suicide. The gameplay is a bit tricky and can be frustrating at times, but the detail and depth of the game itself is incredible; the landscape being nearly indistinguishable from certain spots in Morgantown. Its certainly fun to explore, to throw your character to his death over and over again, or to spend time furthering his hipter-fication in order to earn trophies in the afterlife. They say the hipster is dead. Go kill him.

A Bushwick wall in Juxtapoz Mag

03-25-2011 7:17 PM

If you happen to have the April edition of Juxtapoz Magazine, go ahead and turn to page 30. That photo looks familiar, yes? Thats because you're looking at the facade of Pine Box Rock Shop and the mural painted by Belgium born internationally known artist ROA.

For more images of ROAs work that hung in the Factory Fresh Gallery click HERE.

Beat Nite tonight

02-18-2011 6:16 PM

There is no better way to enjoy this extraordinary weather than a nice round of gallery hopping. Lucky for us the fifth installment of Beat Nite just happens to be going on tonight. Go get some fresh air and look at art. Its good for you.

Cafe Ghia coming soon

02-13-2011 6:48 PM

Add yet another name to the list of recent Jefferson L stop start-ups; Cafe Ghia, a European style cafe currently preparing for launch in about a month. Located on the corner of Jefferson St and Irving Ave, this future eatery occupies a space that was formerly a seedy bar providing only warm beer and prostitutes. Now after major renovation and hopefully lots of disinfectant, Cafe Ghia is sure to draw a less stabby crowd with an offering of "artisanal sandwiches, soups and salads, small plates, coffee + accoutrements, house made teas and treats and a curated selection of seasonal wines and rotating draft and bottled beers." Yum.

Jefferson St devours yet another car

02-07-2011 9:20 AM

Hana Grocery is open!

02-06-2011 2:58 PM

Finally the wait is over. After an almost comical amount of time sitting dormant with fully stocked shelves, Hana Grocery, located on Wyckoff Ave between Star and Troutman, is finally up and running. Open 24/7 with shelves brimming with organic and fancy foods, this little market is sure to be a success despite being a bit pricey by neighborhood standards.

Well, at least they got the dumb right.

02-03-2011 11:04 PM

R.I.P. Jack LaLane

01-23-2011 11:01 PM

He was a poster boy for fitness, and a crazy old man. Good luck, I hope you get in a fight with Frank Sinatra.

Found: a roll of film from the blizzard

01-18-2011 6:29 PM

Todd Bieber needs your assistance. Recently he found a roll of film in the snow at Prospect Park and seeks to return the photos to the original owners. Help a guy help a guy out.

NYC winter forecast: sucks

01-18-2011 10:23 AM

Twenty seven days into the season, and NYC has already been subjected to a flurry of hard hitting, almost weekly, winter weather. If you're crossing your fingers hoping for clear skies and streets in the near future, good luck. This pattern is going to hold. Expect a next couple of months of very cold temperatures and constant snowfalls, along with the delayed public transportation and trash pickup that comes with it. Get some good boots.

Just one reason not to sleep on the subway

01-14-2011 1:27 AM

You have to watch out for those fucking rats.

Strike two

01-13-2011 10:40 AM

The same people who brought you this brilliant poster, bring you this other well stated anti-MTA statement.

Woodhull Hospital.....

01-09-2011 12:34 PM

Such a bad hospital, even the security is comatose.......See the pictures!

Bringing back Groucho

01-06-2011 9:00 PM

Ever wish you were around in the good ol' days when Groucho Marx reigned supreme? Well, how about checking out a great live performance of a recreation of the late, great entertainer? Sound good? We thought so. Put on by the Bushwick Project for the Arts.

Pull your pants off!

01-04-2011 2:12 PM

This Sunday is the pantsless subway ride. Show up with your idiotic friends at Maria Hernandez park at 3:00 to sign up. We here at TBD would like to say, "go commando, it's funnier."

Puerto Rican Stuffed Cats

01-02-2011 8:24 PM

Still king of the hill.

Happy New Year

01-01-2011 12:01 PM

Today is 1-1-11. TBD suggests the following hangover cures..... Bloody Mary's at The Pine Box, greasy food at Tina's, or not drinking so damn much.

Merry Christmas Bushwick

12-25-2010 11:21 AM

Bushwick Dream Christmas Gift Suggestions

12-19-2010 12:23 PM

Sometimes its hard to find the right last minute gift for that special someone, especially when you're fairly broke. You could always make a gift; something fun and personal that comes straight from your hands and heart, but if you happen to be lazy or untalented here are five decent cheapish gift suggestions.

1. Fisheye, Macro, and Wide Angle Camera Phone Lenses from Photojojo.

Take that tiny camera on nearly any cellphone and go pro with these crazy lenses. They pop on using a magnet and tah dah, fantastic photos. $40 for a set of all three.

2. Anything at McNulty's Tea & Coffee

If you know a tea or coffee snob, McNulty's is where you should be heading. If you can brew it they have it and at a decent price too. Located at 109 Christopher St. (between Bleecker and Hudson)

3. Monotron by Korg

It may be debatable whether this handheld analoge ribbon synthesisor is an instrument or a toy, but it is surely fun to play with for hours and could easly become the cornerstone of any noiseband's performance. $60.

4. HEATTECH clothes from UNI QLO

You've seen the ads in the subway trains and its no joke. This stuff is from the future. The fabric is ultra light, comfortable and surprisingly warm. Its cold outside. Some people could use this. $19.90 for a long sleeve shirt. Located at 546 Broadway (between Spring and Broome)

5. Ron Abuelo Anejo 7 Anos

Rum is tasty and Ron Abuelo Anejo 7 Anos is a damn fine rum. Its stocked in most liquor stores and is far superiour to anything in its price range, yet oddly remains widely unknown. Go out and spend $20-25 on a bottle and tell people you spent $60. Most will believe you.

That ugly Smart Car mural

12-14-2010 9:08 PM

You know the mural, glaring down at pedestrians, perched atop a thrift store on the corner of knickerbocker and flushing. Well, here is a video celebrating smart car's little NYC multi mural ad campaign. The mural in Bushwick was produced by Dylan Fracareta from Pin-Up magazine. If you would like to tell Dylan what you think about the job he did you can contact him at dylan@pinupmagazine.org .

Factory Fresh's Speedy Wonderland

12-11-2010 7:55 PM

Last night (12-10) those willing to brave Autumn's chill headed over to Factory Fresh to take in a night of art and drink during FF's newest offering; Speedy Wonderland, featuring wild vivid wood prints by Polish artist Roman Klonek and a diverse offering of strangely enthralling paintings by returning German artist Jim Avignon. Those attending also had a chance to have their photo taken adorned with props of Jim Avignon's design.

2010 NYC Beard and Mustache Competition

12-07-2010 10:39 PM

Here are some pictures of the competition. It was put on by The Gotham City Beard Alliance. It was hosted at Club Europa in Greenpoint. All proceeds went to the 9/11 first responders (via the Feelgood Foundation) whom are being totally fucked over by the very government they cleaned up voluntarily for. Enjoy.

You have to love holiday music

12-05-2010 4:51 PM

Fuck You If You Don't Like Christmas by CRUDBUMP

3rd Wards 2010 Handmade Holiday Craft Fair

12-05-2010 1:16 PM

Yesterday(12-4) the people flocked to 3rd Ward to check out their 4th annual Handmade Holiday Craft Fair, featuring an impressive two floors packed with venders, selling a cornucopia of handmade jewelry, clothing, art and craft. If you missed it, good luck fighting the tourists buying holiday gifts in Union Square.

Happy Hanukkuh From Brooklyn cards

12-01-2010 10:14 AM

Look, the perfect card to send off to your little Jewish grandmother in Florida while still representing your Brooklyn hipness. Go HERE to get a set.

TSA full body scanner catches Arnold Schwarzenegger w/ gun

11-28-2010 6:26 PM

Happy Thanksgiving from The Bushwick Dream

11-24-2010 8:31 PM

And enjoy "A Thanksgiving Prayer" by William S. Burroughs.

Bushwick Please

11-22-2010 10:17 PM

Bushwick please don't walk your dogs in the grocery store. Thats where people buy their fucking food.

Vandervoort blown up

11-21-2010 2:05 PM

Yesterday (11-21) the All City Street Art Block Party, hosted by Factory Fresh and All City, kicked off to great fanfare as Vandervoort Pl became a one day street art mecca, vibrating with booming music, the smell of spray paint amongst other things wafting through the air, as many esteemed artists from the neighborhood and abroad took on the challenge of covering 200+ ft of prime wall space. You were there, right?

A song that may require galoshes

11-20-2010 1:30 PM

In a neighborhood saturated by either outlandish noise bands or fuzzy atmospheric alt rock groups its easy to overlook Bushwicks other, potentially more interesting aural offerings, as exampled by singer/songwriter/pianoplayer Timatim Fitfits newest release; No How, a single discribing the plight of dealing with a slumlord and a slowly flooding apartment. Equal parts haunting and catchy, this playful anxiety driven song may make one require a Xanex after so many listens.

No How by Timatim Fitfit

All City Street Art Block Party

11-19-2010 10:15 AM

This Saturday (11-20) Factory Fresh is partnering up with graffiti app All City, taking over Vandervoort Pl to bring us a day of beer, tacos, music, a film premiere, and the live painting of a 200 ft wall. Fun times.

BETA Spaces open for today!

11-14-2010 11:16 AM

It really is a beautiful day out there. You would be best advised to take advantage of this weather and check out the BETA Spaces brought to you by Arts In Bushwick. Thirty Eight locations are open this day only showcasing art and performances by a plethora of Bushwick residents.

Working that Beat

10-23-2010 1:24 PM

Last night Work That Beat, the forth installment of Norte Maars bi-annual Beat Nite events, got underway drawing bundled up art lovers out to tour the local galleries and art spaces. Heres a taste:

NORTE MAAR presents: WORK THAT BEAT

10-22-2010 9:42 AM

Tonight ten Bushwick Art spaces come alive for your viewing pleasure as organized by NORTE MAAR. Come, tour your neighborhood and take in some art. Its good for you.

IHOP in Bushwick!??!!?!?!?

10-19-2010 9:57 PM

Yep.... it's really true. They're putting it at 785 Flushing Ave, across the intersection from HellHole Hospital.... Woodhull, excuse me. Full story here at The Brooklyn Eagle.

Service Anouncement

10-13-2010 1:57 PM

New MTA signs, information that makes sense.

Banksy vs. Simpsons

10-12-2010 1:15 AM

The Pine Box Rock Shop pulls the crowd

10-09-2010 12:12 PM

The Pine Box Rock Shop, a new bar on Grattan occupying the space of a former coffin factory, opened its doors last night(10-8) and the masses flocked in. With a nice open interior and a fine selection of beer, this bar is bound to be a contender for the attention of the Morgantown residents. One suggestion, the Lake Placid Ubu Ale; 7%,$5.

A message to Dickhicken

10-03-2010 7:25 PM

Jefferson St. L train station on fire.

09-25-2010 3:22 PM

At roughly 2pm today a fire ignited along the side of the Jefferson St. station entrance, burning away at years of trash that has gathered in a gap between the entrance and neighboring building. The FDNY was quick to handle the situation. So far no terrorist organization has laid claim to the blaze.

Factory Fresh brings us SEENOEVILSEENOEVILSEE EVIL

09-25-2010 12:56 PM

Factory Fresh opened its doors last night with its newest gathering of work entitled SEENOEVILSEENOEVILSEE EVIL featuring the art of Jeremiah Maddock, Daniel Trocchio and Amanda Wong. Its a fine collection indeed and moderately pried at that; certainly worth taking a look.

A car dismantled

09-19-2010 2:26 PM

On some streets in Bushwick leaving a car unattended is like leaving a penny in a glass of cola. This little yellow car appeared on Jefferson St between Wyckoff and Irving a week ago, its window smashed and stereo removed. Then came the piranhas. The wheels were soon taken and then the hood. Tags began appearing on the cars exterior. The engine was next to go, to be replaced with bags of garbage. Now the front seats are gone along with much of the interior and Scooby Doo sits behind the wheel peering at passer-byers.

A tornado touches down in Bushwick and destroys Maria Hernandez Park

09-16-2010 7:26 PM

At around 5:30 this afternoon the people of Bushwick were caught off guard by the sudden appearance of a tornado as it tore down the streets bringing howling winds, blinding rain and a wave of debris. Many trees have been torn from the ground. Facades of some buildings have been stripped from their frames. Many of the cars are now pockmarked from the assault of flying objects. It seems that Maria Hernandez Park has suffered the most damage and has been half destroyed.

Talib Kweli lights up the Bushwick Block Party

09-13-2010 8:04 PM

If you didn't hear about it you must not be paying attention. The first-annual Bushwick Block Party, smack dab in the middle of morgan town, had a special guest who brought a little hip-hop to Moore St.

Fun with advertising

09-13-2010 7:46 PM

Maybe not everybody is looking forward to the facebook movie.

God's not looking.....

09-07-2010 11:35 PM

Now's our chance.

RIP The Archive

09-02-2010 1:30 AM

The Archive; cafe, movie rental spot and beloved epicenter of Morgantown has been sold. Apparently they have been suffering from financial woes for some time. Its last day open as The Archive will be tomorrow (9-2-10) from 7am-2pm. Get yourself a coffee and say goodbye.

Show some love, he's in charge.

08-08-2010 2:45 PM

Sunday night is the new Thursday night

08-04-2010 10:20 PM

So you hate Mondays, right? Then why waste a perfectly good Sunday night resting up for a day thats already going to kinda suck? What you do is get a band, a dj, a keg, bbq and British girls with inflatable boxing gloves. You gather that all on your roof and enjoy. Below are photos of a perfectly good example utilizing Maybe the Welders, DJ B-Rad, and PBR:

Careful, Jim...

08-04-2010 2:26 PM

WATCH YOUR ASS!!!!

08-04-2010 2:00 AM

The police are asking help in identifying the two assholes who beat the shit out of a guy in Kennedy Fried Chicken on Knickerbocker, and took his belongings. WATCH THE VIDEO!

Dope.

08-03-2010 12:47 PM

For all you junkies that still love your diesel, it's gonna be little bit harder to find your junk. According to courant.com a gentleman named Arturo Diaz, 47, residing at 370 Bushwick Avenue, apt 2G, and his accomplice Irving Colon, 40, of 264 South 1st st, apt 6A were busted with 4,000 bags of heroin. The cops also seized 2 vehicles, $575 in cash after a shipment arrived in Fairfield, CT. The whole story is here.

Die Antwoord spotted in Bushwick

07-28-2010 9:55 AM

Here is a video of a Die Antwoord photo shoot on Moore St. oddly enough combined with travel footage by Rafael Fuchs.

Brooklyn Saves - doing good with music, art and booze

07-26-2010 11:50 PM

So if you missed it, Eastern District woke up with a benefit art auction entitled Brooklyn Saves this past weekend (July 24th). Raising money for St. Baldrick's Foundation for Children's Cancer Research, these guys pulled out all the stops. Armed with a myriad of artworks, a number of interesting bands, mountains of beer and a tattoo exhibition, the opening night had a little bit going on for everybody. Bidding on artwork will be continuing at least for a few more days so you should stop by and try to pick something up for a good cause. Here are a few photos of early on opening night:

Tattoos are so 20th century

07-14-2010 1:32 AM

Why deal with all the ink and needles when you can just etch a design of your choice using a laser cutter?

Factory Fresh presents Among Darkened Woods

07-09-2010 10:53 AM

Featuring work by Tim Kent, SHM Kim, Adam Collison, Amanda Nedham, Mary Kate Maher, Monika Zarzeczna and Paul D'Agostino.

Fourth of July - Independence in Bushwick

07-07-2010 10:23 PM

Combine: DJ B-Rad, Grilling, Jungle Juice, Fireworks, Awesome people, A rooftop in Bushwick with a view Result:

Gotta love photoshop.....

06-22-2010 1:06 PM

Finally a practical use for the vuvuzela.

Crochet Wha????

06-22-2010 12:59 PM

So cool. Found this beaut on Essex St.

A fine example of civil disobedience

06-17-2010 7:39 PM

Spotted on Bogart St.

There you go buddy......

06-13-2010 6:19 PM

If you can't dazzle her with your good looks or brilliance, just talk shit about her boyfriend with a pen in the subway. Idiot.

BOS, till next time...

06-13-2010 12:40 AM

Here are a few shots taken last weekend during Bushwick Open Studios. Great art. Great people. Great times.

What The Fuchs, a sneak peak

06-09-2010 7:35 PM

Justin's Home Hospital

06-01-2010 12:37 AM

Located 1 1/2 blocks from the Jefferson St L train stop.

Justin's Home Hospital - watch more funny videos

Listener, Fienix, Homeless Gospel Choir - VIDEO

05-31-2010 2:48 PM

Video, as shot by (((unartig))), on our humble roof.

The Rooftop Extravaganza

05-31-2010 2:37 PM

So we hosted our very first live show this beautiful memorial day weekend, bringing in the undeniably talented Listener, flanked by Fienix and Homeless Gospel Choir. The weather was perfect. The bands were amazing. The burgers were tasty. The jungle juice was thoroughly consumed. A good time was had.

Thank you to Listener, Fienix, Homeless Gospel Choir, DJ B-Rad, and (((unartig)))

A bill in circulation

05-31-2010 2:12 PM

Last spotted at the Wreck Room, traded for two cigarettes.

Iconic design meets street art for a cause

05-23-2010 11:13 PM

Operation Design; an organization dedicated to giving public school children access to pick the minds of accomplished designers and architects, is currently holding a brilliant online benefit auction called Eames Inspiration. To be sold are a collection of classic Eames molded plywood chairs, each beautifully adorned by an individual street artist. Certainly a good buy for a good cause.

The Bushwick Dream is now on Facebook!

05-23-2010 1:59 PM

So if you like us, you should LIKE us.

Do you know of the EKE Studio?

05-22-2010 9:54 PM

Well you should. Located in The Loom, the Bushwick version of a shopping mall, this new art space packs a wallop, as shown by their very first art opening featuring the likes of Alex Passapera and Dana Bunker. And yeah, they also had a sick blue grass band playing out front. You've got to love it.

Note: video and more photos of this show to come.

Factory Fresh ROA opening reception

05-22-2010 9:09 PM

Here are a few shots of the newest show by Factory Fresh featuring ROA by way of Belgium. This incredible work will only be up till May 30th so you better get over there and take a look before you miss your chance.

HAHAHA

05-20-2010 4:40 PM

It may be crude. It may be childish. It may be low brow. Regardless its fucking funny.

Art = Healthcare

05-10-2010 2:40 PM

According to "The L Magazine" Woodhull hospital is exchanging art of all kinds in exchange for "health credits" to the tune of $40/hr. Now I know what you're thinking and you're probably right. Why would I give them my awesome art in exchange for the worst possible healthcare in the worst possible hospital? The answer? I dunno, but if anyone tries this program, please write to The Bushwick Dream (to the left is a contact us link) and let us know how it went, we're super curious. Full article Here.

NO!

05-05-2010 9:11 PM

Ok Dickchicken, NOW YOU'VE CROSSED A FUCKING LINE.................

05-05-2010 8:41 PM

Damn you, damn you, goddamn you. You're like a Mr. Brainwash with less creativity. If it wasn't enough I have to read your stupid name everywhere I go, you put your asinine logo ov........ No. You know what? I'm not even gonna stoop to your level.

Its ummmmm something

05-05-2010 1:05 AM

If you happen to take a stroll down Jefferson Street you may come across this sight. Legs and a hat. Simply odd, no?

Here's a real fun guy.

04-26-2010 2:57 PM

Who likes mushrooms? No, not the ones that you eat and giggle like schoolgirl, puke and see shit in the future. Just mushrooms, some you've heard of, some maybe you haven't. This guy in Bushwick, Kendall Morrison, 47, is growing them by the boat load. Read the whole story here at The New York Times.

And the award for best use of a

04-07-2010 10:45 AM

This fucking genius.

Sykicks agree, there's no grammar in the future.

04-02-2010 10:42 PM

Someone needs teacherer.

An early attempt at a roof party....

04-02-2010 10:32 PM

Granted it's only the second day of April and the high today was about 65, some crazy cats decided to try a dance party complete with DJ. I heard it got moved inside. E on effort.

Hipster facial hair for just 75 cents!

03-30-2010 10:46 AM

Get yours now!

Know when to say when

03-27-2010 11:14 AM

If anyone has a really long range flame thrower, now may be the time to break it out, and walk over to Jefferson St and Wyckoff ave., look up, aim and put this sorry excuse for a national symbol out of it's misery.

Write a Biden Health Reform Haiku!

03-24-2010 3:37 PM

In honor of Joe Biden's eloquence, WNYC is hosting a haiku contest, with the middle line being "this is a big fucking deal." Take a listen for inspiration:

Our beloved Roberta's fucking weird promo

03-24-2010 11:37 AM

Find Brianna Zani

03-20-2010 11:28 AM

Missing since her Thursday escape from Woodhull Hospital, This girl is reported as off her meds and seriously disoriented. If you see her, call 339-293-3841 or 978-664-1425.

Brianna Zani: 5' 6", blues eyes, blond hair. For more information go HERE.

He works hard for the money.....

03-17-2010 9:37 PM

So you better treat him right. Or, he'll do your taxes wrong.

Smooth moves seen at Metro and Graham.

Damage:Control; opening night at Factory Fresh

03-13-2010 1:51 PM

SCATTERBRAIN cancelled

03-11-2010 7:51 PM

Scatterbrain; collection of art and objects created, found or stolen by D (Alden) Stover. Including artwork by Skewville, Bobby De Leonibus III, Karl Mann, Daniel Mitchell, Jim Avignon, and many still unidentified. Also, old books and shit for sale. Saturday & Sunday(13th-14th) @ 1-6pm

Lots of horny people on the subway

03-11-2010 12:13 AM

Oh look its Subway Crush; A way for people to try to find their missed connections on the subway. Hmmm...that sounds familiar. Oh yeah, the missed connections section on craigslist. Sorry Subway Crush. You are a bit behind in the game. Nice design though.

Bushwick the movie!

03-10-2010 11:28 PM

And it ain't about hipsters! Trailer here.

I ain't going down like that.....

03-10-2010 11:03 PM

This guy fought tooth and nail not be arrested. The first photo showing how damn hard he was fighting. The second is of the five, count 'em five, blue shirts that it took to get him in the car. His friend with his back to the camera was trying to talk some sense into him, but he wasn't hearing it.

Somewhere in Hollywood.....

03-10-2010 10:00 AM

Cory Feldman is crying into an empty martini glass.

Policing the police

03-06-2010 12:06 PM

According to the Daily News the police are giving $190,500 to 14 teenagers who claim to be falsely arrested on Myrtle Avenue. They were on a way to a wake for a gang member killed by gang violence. Of course, the cops and the higher brass say there was no wrong doing. Well at least it's nice to see the police just feeling truly altruistic all of the sudden.

There is a thing in a tree on Irving Ave

03-05-2010 7:00 PM

A link between intelligence and political persuasion

03-04-2010 2:42 PM

Apparently evolutionary psychologist Dr Satoshi Kanazawa has found that liberals and atheists tend to be a bit more intelligent than their god-fearing conservative counterparts. The National Geographic has written up a nice article about it. All of a sudden the legacy of George W. Bush makes a bit more sense.

Be vewy, vewy, quiet......

03-03-2010 11:02 AM

Bushwick's very own Roberta's is having a seminar on raising cute little rabbits in their back yard. Then, you'll learn how to slaughter, disembowel, defur, and cook the lil' buggers. Mmmmmmm..........

Damage:Control coming to Factory Fresh

02-28-2010 7:15 PM

Boris Hoppek and Alex Diamond bring a show sure to be equally sexual, disturbing, and playful. courtesy of Factory Fresh and Heliumcowboy artspace.

Baby, you're the greatest.

02-26-2010 5:39 PM

One of Bushwick's finest and funniest natives was born today in 1916. He was born Herbert John Gleason. We know him as "Jackie". He attended PS 73, where the kids today remember him by having no clue who that black and white fat guy is. Here's to you Jackie, I hope you're drinking whiskey and smoking cigars with Sammy Davis, Jr. If you want a more detailed story, you can look here at theThe Brooklyn Eagle.

$10,000 reward.....

02-22-2010 3:42 PM

Looking for this Israelite...

5 Gallons of questions

02-22-2010 3:38 PM

Somewhere in Kings County....

02-22-2010 2:47 PM

GOT A WEBCAM???

02-19-2010 11:28 PM

Oh yeah?? Wanna see some really fucked up shit? How about a site that just connects you, at random, to any other person via webcam....worldwide. It's like some sort of strange futuristic people zoo, with an unlimited amount of unique species. I just did it for like, 3 minutes, and I'm already terrified. I saw things no man should see. It's called Chatroulette! Take your chances.....

Watch your dome

02-19-2010 8:26 PM

Any bicyclist in this city knows that you gotta watch your ass. With all the crazy drivers and poorly marked, if not completely lacking, bike lanes its a risky ride out there. Well thanks to Lazer Helmets being struck by some asshole cab driver may be a bit more survivable. Using "SuperSkin" technology they have created a helmet that better deflects impact and lessens the rotational force caused by, lets say, bouncing your head off the street at 30 mph. The future is now people.

Norte Maar presents Back the Beat

02-19-2010 12:50 PM

Bushwick's Art Spaces will be open late. You should take advantage.

Associated Super Market keeping up with neighborhood gentrification

02-19-2010 12:14 PM

Thats right, the Associated Super Market on Knickerbocker, long known for not paying their employees and only stocking their shelves with Goya products has now started sneaking in some hipster friendly foods. Bob Dylan was right, the times they are a-changin'

Cops search for blurry man.

02-19-2010 11:32 AM

A man was robbed on Bushwick ave, according to NY1, on Monday. Take a good look, he may be a neighbor.

Kinda Sad, Probably True.

02-18-2010 9:24 PM

Ruckus at the Rite-Aid

02-18-2010 8:45 PM

Two teens were apprehended at the Rite-Aid on Knickerbocker for shoplifting today. Four of NYPD's finest arrived to handle the situation. One of the teens were spotted crying. The world is a safer place.

Man with no name stabs nameless man in neck

02-18-2010 8:43 PM

It happened on Schaefer street. I think that about says it all. If you want to read more the village voice, has a slight bit more.

Grand opening ruined by couch tossing gorilla.

02-18-2010 5:46 PM

Everything was going just fine. The new store on Knickerbocker and Hart was selling and leasing miscellaneous appliances, saying "hi" to the neighborhood, and then, WHAM! This fucking prick of a purple gorilla shows up, starts throwing heavy ass furniture.... and wearing shades, on a clearly overcast day. What a dick.

Manholes - 1, Con Ed - 0

02-17-2010 12:53 PM

The streets are fighting back against the people who upkeep some of it. Apparently (according to ABC) the other night at 3am an underground explosion sent a manhole cover flying through the stale air of Bushwick and nearly killed a Consolidated Edison worker. Found it nyah.

Factory Fresh presents: Pufferella and Josh Mccutchen

02-17-2010 1:18 AM

Pufferella's "i know u are but what am i" and Josh Mccutchen's Polymetrochromanticism

02-16-2010 12:57 AM

featuring Bushwicks own Skewville

No service

02-15-2010 8:03 PM

Trailor parks, not just for hicks.

02-12-2010 11:57 PM

As reported by The Gothamist....LEAVE!!!!!!!!

Pufferella presents

02-10-2010 9:31 AM

Opening this Fri.(12th) at Factory Fresh.

Blizzard warning

02-10-2010 8:55 AM

Don't go to work. Build a snowman.

Heart shapes in one wall

02-09-2010 9:14 PM

how many shapes and lines and other graphic elements are there to compose the message, the art, the style of one wall? i guess it depends on the angle you use to see and the way you document it. few days ago i happened to see several shapes of heart on this wall, happy valentine's day.

Fake guns, still as dangerous as real ones.

02-08-2010 12:17 AM

A man with a BB gun was gunned down in Bushwick for stupidity. He was taken to this hospital. Read about it here.

It just takes a pickle to put nickelback in their place

02-07-2010 2:25 PM

You would think that it would be common knowledge that nickelback is a horrible band, yet they maintain an almost mystifying success. It is time that the musically aware stand up and vote pickle over nickel! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Can-this-pickle-get-more-fans-than-Nickleback/282013353726

Art that refuses ownership

02-07-2010 12:06 PM

Created by artist Caleb Larsen, this unassuming black cube, titled "A Tool to Deceive and Slaughter", regularly connects to the internet and puts itself up for sale on ebay. Once sold, its current owner is required to ship it off to the winning bidder. If you would like to try to bid for it, go to www.atooltodeceiveandslaughter.com.

This just goes to show you, art/concept really can't be owned. Ha.

Take a class at Trade School. Price, a trade.

02-05-2010 7:47 PM

Yes thats right. Up until Feb 28th you can go to the lower east side and take a class in exchange for basic goods and services depending on whatever the professor wants; A novel idea indeed brought to you by OurGoods. For class schedules and registration go HERE.

Know your graffiti

02-05-2010 4:31 PM

A little guide of the bushwick/east williamsburg area as created by Offmanhattan

View Brooklyn Graffiti Tour Part 2 (by offManhattan.com) in a larger map

O'Reilly Vs. Stewart

02-05-2010 12:05 PM

For those of us who don't have cable:

Its snowing!!!!

02-03-2010 12:38 AM

That is all.

Be Stupid

02-02-2010 12:17 PM

Diesel's new campaign Be Stupid. i feel related personally. i feel related coz being stupid means doing things with less calculation like the majority does, which can lead to a fresh way to discover things that most ppl haven't discovered yet, which would bring the world more fun and diversity and maybe beauty accidentally. and i like the idea that a huge brand is selling this idea. but ya know, don't buy diesel because of these pretty stunts, it's all advertising, ya know

Listen

02-02-2010 1:42 AM

Listener - Ozark Empire, or a snake oil salesman comes to your town.

Take note

01-31-2010 2:22 PM

Bring that next level shit

01-29-2010 11:57 PM

Die Antwoord - Zef Side

Heaven Can Wait

01-29-2010 9:20 PM

Heaven Can Wait by Charlotte Gainsbourg

The iPad, a review

01-28-2010 9:16 AM

Happy New Year?!

01-26-2010 12:12 AM

fun, dark and critical ya know~ It's always the end of the world as we know it i only vote for repent and recycle lol

Ever have one of those days?

01-21-2010 4:37 PM

Today I saw a girl drop her cell phone, when it bounced the back came off and the battery popped out. The battery landed in what may have been the grossist puddle in Harlem, clearly at least 6" deep, full of garbage and topped with the a thin oil slick. She sucked it up, put her hand in the muck and retrieved the battery. She then turned around and proceeded to accidentally kick the cell phone into the sewer. The look on her face was priceless. She put the battery back in the puddle and walked away cursing. :)

Whats black and white and red all over?

01-19-2010 9:28 PM

A haunting animation by UK based Mie.

Oh look its....Bank$y....ummm ok

01-17-2010 10:51 PM

Located on Jefferson St. between Wyckoff and Irving is this banksy knockoff stencil. It is possible that the "S" was replaced by a "$" to imply that banksy has sold out. Wait...take it all in. It really makes you think doesn't it? Seriously, are there not more interesting statements to make? And maybe more clever ways to make them?

Why afternoons at the Raccoon are funny......

01-12-2010 4:08 PM

So, it's five minutes to 4:00pm and I'm having a quick one and on the tv happens to be ultimate fighting. There's one gentleman whom I believe to be about 6'4", 240ish, Puerto Rican, maybe 42 years of age, and he LOVES the fighting. However, he's going on about how it's okay for one man to kick another man in the nuts. Judging by the looks on the other few people in here, he's the only one. Oh yeah! And, he keeps calling his girlfriend (who's here) "the cunt", and in the 3rd person. I'm soooooo confused. He's also been asking for a ciggarette. He did however say something really funny. The sysco foods truck just pulled up, and he yells "I know this nigga's got a ciggarette, 'cause he's got a depressing fucking job."

Fart brilliant.........

01-05-2010 2:55 AM

Fart funny as shit

Fucked Commercials 09

01-01-2010 11:20 PM

AdFreak has compiled a nice list of the 30 freakiest commercials of 2009 , the majority of them being public service announcements. Be warned; these range from interestingly odd to completely twisted. Here is a taste (minus any taste):

?

12-26-2009 12:39 AM

Peeping Tom

12-26-2009 12:33 AM

I caught this guy staring in my window after the snowfall. Judging by the Brooklyn Dodgers hat I figure him to be about 95.

Are you miserable? Move to Louisiana.

12-22-2009 11:18 PM

Studies show that out of all the states in the USA, NY has the most unhappy of people. Are you really that surprised? Read more and see the states happiness ranking HERE.

Fresh Geezers

12-22-2009 11:06 PM

Its always better late than never, yeah? Well, here is a selection of shots from the last opening at Factory Fresh, dubbed "Fresh Geezers"

Make up your mind

12-13-2009 6:35 PM

Make up your mind - click here to check this quaint work The artist is Nick Knight, the lyrics is lovely His things for reference - www.nickknight.com

BAD ELMO

12-08-2009 1:57 PM

FOR FUCKS SAKE!!!!!

12-06-2009 2:34 PM

Who the fuck wears a white scarf????

Friend helping friends.

12-06-2009 2:31 PM

A Hounding Obsession, an opening

11-22-2009 6:10 PM

On Friday the 13th Factory Fresh opened their doors to showcase the work of Armer, Darkcloud, Goreb and Deeker. No bad luck except for a slight drizzle outside. No one seemed to care.

Not too far from here......

11-20-2009 2:23 PM

I understand this isn't Bushwick, but this was too damn funny to not post.

Yeah, but who's reading the sign that cares?

11-17-2009 4:52 PM

Loitering pussy now just a vagrant

11-17-2009 3:25 PM

As seen in previous posts here, this damn pussy has gone from mooching menace to homeless ass sleeping on the bench near The Archive and The Snatch.

Have you been confused today?

11-04-2009 11:57 PM

Well, why not? Go to www.superbad.com/. No, it has nothing to do with that fucking movie. Just go. See how many question marks pop up in your head. note: yes we know you've seen this site like, months ago. But let us behind in the times people have our fun.

Have you seen Doug?

11-04-2009 5:27 PM

He is missing. His parents are looking for him. For more info go to www.dougmissing.com

Nathan Barley, a tv show

11-04-2009 9:23 AM

A brilliant obscure gem from the BBC with a stinging commentary on all hipsterdom. It will make you laugh. It will make you cry. It may very well inspire you to set fire to all of williamsburg. Here is a taste:

I'll call it before CNN

11-03-2009 10:40 PM

Well con-fucking-gradulations. King bloombucks is going to win an incredibly tight race. I just hope by posting this before the votes are completly counted it'll have the Dewey/Truman effect. To all of you whom didn't vote, I hope you die of dysentery (which will inevetibly happen as rent will now be skyrocketing and you'll be living in the gutter.). To the fucking imbaciles whom voted for Scumberg, I wish worse. I hope you get explosive diarrahea caught between subway stops with either a track fire or a sick passenger in the tunnel ahead of you. Then I hope you die (of fucking embarrasment.). Also to asshats that allowed Kingburg to run thrice, I don't even need to belittle you, you've done it already. I hope Satan isn't real, because he's got your fucking number.

A public service announcement.......

11-03-2009 4:31 PM

FUCKING VOTE!!!!!!! That is all.

You may hope we live in a civil world...

10-30-2009 12:09 PM

but we don't. The proof is in this package taped to an apartment building wall.

Grand Champions Forever, Never Say Die opening

10-30-2009 11:59 AM

Last weekend Factory Fresh held a grand opening. You didn't miss it, did you?

Salvador Dali and Walt Disney give us �Destino�

10-21-2009 12:10 PM

The Factory Fresh courtyard is being painted

10-21-2009 11:19 AM

This can only mean one thing. A new show is coming. This Friday, October 23rd Factory Fresh will be opening "Grand Champions Forever, Never Say Die", featuring an impressive 30+ graffiti artists hiding under the guise of their real names. Why would you miss such a thing?

How do you know you've had enough?

10-19-2009 9:11 PM

How many hipsters does it take to screw in a lightbulb?

10-02-2009 8:24 PM

It's a really obscure number, I don't think you'd know it.

False alarm on Jefferson St.

09-30-2009 3:06 PM

So somebody saw some random chemicals in a box with a can of paint and decided to call 911. The thing is when you call the fire department in this city, they bring EVERYONE. You can't really tell from the picture but there was like 6 or 7 fire trucks here, all for what? Well it turned out it was just film developing chemicals. A neighbor told this to the cops when they arrived and was harassed and told by midget cop that he'd put his foot up his ass. Nice.

A damn good band.

09-25-2009 8:05 PM

You know Goodbye Blue Mondays? No? It's a neat little bar/cafe tucked away on busy Broadway. Besides being an ode to ol' Kurt Vonnegut they have tall boys of PBR and live shows. Last night these blokes from the south called "Listener" played there, and they're fucking awesome. Besides having a raging singer/poet as a front man they have another guy who plays the washing machine. Check them out here.

Ho, ho, homo?

09-25-2009 7:50 PM

Or not.

Cops: Dumber than potheads.

09-25-2009 7:46 PM

Ever wonder what happens with that grass the trooper took from you? Well, now you know, and knowing is half the battle.

An in-progress spotted

09-24-2009 5:47 PM

Hidden away in our little neighborhood is a yard in which something is being constructed. The question is, what?

Um..........

09-22-2009 3:08 PM

Well I guess it makes 'em harder to steal.

And the question is...

09-18-2009 9:46 PM

alive or dead?

Note: This is in no way product placement for Air Jordans. We endorse neither Nike inc. nor dead homeless people.

Please help this man.

09-18-2009 9:11 PM

This guy is a personal friend of mine and I swore I would do everything in my power to help him. This child is a real handful and he desperately needs help. Since he posted this video of desperation he's had over 60,000 views, numerous responses, and it's even been shown on television in Germany and Sweden. Alas, to no avail, this single dad has asked for help from TheBushwickDream.net If you're out there and see this, do the right thing.

Life is like a bowl of cherries...........

09-18-2009 9:11 PM

In the end you just get a bowl of pits.

For a good time (I think) call....................

09-16-2009 3:21 PM

So I'm at work and I am about to go into the office, when something catches my eye. Semi-naked women. One of the guys at work left these on the prep table. All these two cards say is "delivery". Delivering what you ask? I have a sneaking suspicion that these "business cards" may or may not be selling sex. Hookers to be more specific. Either that or sexy women in bikini's deliver food or maybe weed. I don't want to get anyone in trouble so I have taken the justice of deleting some numbers.

Be afraid

09-16-2009 9:17 AM

Misinformation is flooding the veins of this country. A juggernaut propaganda machine is in place and peoples patriotism is the fuel for a nonsensical fight. Be afraid.

A VERY VERY VERY good article.

09-09-2009 5:30 PM

Okay so I was just surfin' the ol' net, and I came across this today. It's written by The Village Voice. It's a great article. It was written two summers ago. I suggest taking the time to read the whole thing. The Second Battle of Bushwick

I just threw up in my mouth.

09-08-2009 3:20 PM

Just watch. I dare you to not laugh. Or cry. Either way, this is.....is.....well.....it's something.

Hipsters BEWARE!!!

09-08-2009 3:03 PM

So I'm fucking around on craigslist today and what do I come across when I search for Bushwick? Some dude is handing out (hilarious) beatings to hipsters in Bushwick, free of charge, and he may or may not be framing innocent animals. He's started recently too, these are posts from 9/3/09 and 9/4/09. Check 'em out, watch your cello playing ass. End of story.

Paint on the street

09-06-2009 6:04 PM

So you have some spare paint in a can in the corner. It has been there for a while and you have been meaning to use it. Pick it up, pop off the top, and pour its contents in the street. Go wild. Make a mess. Liven things up a bit. As example, here is maybe half a can of pink that has been artfully spread on Jefferson St between Irving and Knickerbocker, possibly signed Jay.

I KNOW WHO I'M VOTING FOR!!!!!! THE REVEREND BILLY TALEN!!!!

08-31-2009 1:22 PM

Mayoral campaigns can be a real fucking bitch sometimes, like when you're faced with voting for King Bloomberg who strong armed his way to run for a third term. Let's face it, ol' Mikey sure is going to be hard to take away the incumbency from. Who else can we vote for? Well.........here's the solution!! THE REVEREND BILLY TALEN!!! Look at this fuckin' guy, with faux Morrisey pompadour, giant Green Party button, Smurf blue blazer and priestly vestments. And, who's he pointing at? Jesus Christ it's ME!!!!!!

Dog Conditioner

08-31-2009 1:12 PM

Summer time blues got you down? No air conditioner? Out of Alpo? No worries, just go sit in that empty spot where the a/c should be and watch the cats and hipsters go by N 7th.

Handbanana sighting

08-27-2009 4:51 PM

Watch your ass, I just saw Handbanana making a break for it out of a house on Troutman. He was heading north on Knickerbocker chasing a fat, balding, middle aged man.

Jefferson St block party in the round

08-27-2009 12:07 AM

Every year the people of Jefferson St between Knickerbocker and Irving get together to have a block party. It is a time for music, BBQing and kids running around like mad. Here is an in the round view.

Remember to scroll. Its a long photo.

What is Eastern District up to?

08-23-2009 12:11 PM

Recently the layout of this humble gallery has slightly changed and kitchen equipment has appeared in the back. Could it be a future juice bar? Seems so.

Brooklyn Bailout Burlesque: part 2

08-23-2009 11:53 AM

If you weren't at Factory Fresh this Friday, well, sorry. It was night of music, drinking, and dancing. In the line up: Larry Bang Bang, Kim Boekbinder, and Neoangin.

Remember.....

08-20-2009 1:28 AM

If god were watching..... He'd be upset. You sicko.

Bushwick Artist Feature: Vahge

08-18-2009 11:38 PM

Well it is time for you to get to know Vahge. She lives right in our little neighborhood of Bushwick. You may pass by her on the street every once in a while and not even know it. Vahge was kind enough to fill out an interview/questionnaire for us and share some of her work. Enjoy.

TBD - Where are you from / what kind of place is it?

Vahge - I have a tendency to move every few years, so I've been here and there, east and west and back. I spent my childhood in Clarksville, Maryland, a delicious suburb. It's the kind of place where people judge you based on the car you drive and the grades you get and watch you from their windows. It's very paranoid.

TBD - How did you end up in Bushwick?

Vahge - I was in Santa Fe (New Mexico) and realized that I was not 65 years old, and did not paint desert scenes, and was therefore in the wrong place. New York seemed like a good choice and the best thing I could barely afford was Bushwick.

TBD - What do you do?

Vahge - I make weird collages. I cut out lots of small pieces of magazine and glue them into creepy scenes. They seem to be getting larger.

TBD - Why?

Vahge - I'm obsessive, so the tediousness of the collage process is really satisfying. It's also something I've been trying to be good at since I was little.

TBD - What is it that drives you?

Vahge - New ideas, restlessness, and childhood trauma. A lot of people say that the process of creation keeps them sane, but that's actually not true for me... I kind of go psycho if I'm working on something for too long, the process is just meticulous. The need to accomplish something is a big influence. [more]

TBD - What would be your dream project?

Vahge - An album cover for Tom Waits. Or some kind of crazy Sistine Chapel project.

TBD - Do you have an ultimate goal you would like to achieve with your work?

Vahge - I don't think collage is taken very seriously as an art form yet. I think that part of it is that collage hasn't been explored as thoroughly as other more classic mediums, like painting or photography. I'd like to show that collage isn't limited to abstract images and that it can stand on it's own. I'm tired of mixed media. It would be really cool if collage had a movement in the next few years, kind of like what has happened with street art. That's my goal. And the Whitney wouldn't be too shabby, either.

TBD - When someone is looking at your art on a wall, what do you like them to be listening to?

Vahge - Probably something dark and moody, maybe some cabaret or a nice rag tag piano. I think Tom Waits fits really well, I love that man and his music is a constant motivator.

TBD - Where do you see beauty?

Vahge - In oddities and glittery things.

TBD - What do you support?

Vahge - Unconventional choices.

TBD - What do you denounce?

Vahge - Foul odors. Just not tasty.

TBD - What is art?

Vahge - To me, art is something that requires some skill, some craft to create. It should take some time. It should be unique and hard to mimic. It's something that you dream about, that you feel uneasy about. I think there's too much stuff out there that looks like it took an hour to make, like it could have been made by anybody, like it's only purpose is to sell. That pisses me off.

To see more of Vahge's work you can visit her Myspace or deviantArt pages. She will have her very own webpage up soon. You'll be the first to hear about it.

In times of recession

08-18-2009 1:10 PM

Please remember to conserve your yellow paint. You'll never know when you'll need to paint a schoo bu.

A picture's worth a thousand words.

08-18-2009 1:05 PM

And a 30 day metro card is worth $89. Sooner more than later they'll be nearing or exceeding $100. Whoever did this is obviously speaking out against the shitty service, shitty prices and shitty smelling trains (mainly on the a, c, and e trains). That, or they just thought the next guy to walk by this masterpiece (on Waverly Pl. in The Village) would laugh his ass off. (I did.)

Talk is cheap.

08-18-2009 12:56 PM

But cussing mother fuckers out is always worth every penny.

A bit of summer relief

08-16-2009 9:11 PM

Finally this summer has emerged from its lull and the heat is on. So what is one to do in an area in which the beaches suck and all the pools are crowded with the masses? Well, break open a fire hydrant and you have your own water park. And if a building catches fire and the FDNY can't get water pressure to their hoses, fuck 'em. I guess its going to burn.

A Bushwick parking fundamental

08-16-2009 2:59 PM

If you aren't already aware, these people driving around Bushwick are crazy and just so you know, there is a reason that side mirrors fold in on many models of cars and if you don't use this nifty feature you can't really complain when some reckless asshole rips the mirror off of your BMW.

Can you hear that?

08-15-2009 5:55 PM

If you find yourself on White and McKibben and you hear a light metal chatter, look to the skies.

The Brooklyn Bailout Burlesque opening at Factory Fresh

08-15-2009 5:44 PM

Curated by Jim Avignon, Factory Fresh hosted an opening Fri showcasing artist representing our near and dear Brooklyn and imports from across Europe. It was a night not only of sight but of sound, as a number of bands blew up FF's back court yard all night. The last performance of the evening was an indoor intimate affair by Jim Avignon and Jon Burgerman's freshly formed music due; Anxieteam. It was good times.

Battle of the wall

08-09-2009 1:41 PM

A fine example of graffiti editing on Thames. Technically, six of these people, you can in fact fuck with. The question is, in the end, who is going to end up on top?

Variety girls

08-08-2009 1:36 PM

They don't make them like they used to.

The trash cage

08-08-2009 1:33 PM

You tired of your trash running away? Stuff it all in a big steel cage; you know, the guantanamo bay treatment.

Elephant head spotted off of Jefferson L stop

08-08-2009 1:32 PM

Located on Jefferson St between Wyckoff and Irving, this once majestic beast lies in ruin, its dismembered body hid amongst the greenery of the Trees Not Trash mini garden. This poor creature obviously met a gruesome fate. And to ad insult to injury, its head is placed on the edge of the street in open view, like a trophy to this abhorrent act. We never knew you, strange kinda purple elephant, but you will be missed.

NYC murder

08-08-2009 2:57 AM

You know how it goes. You live in a place with high crime. It is the city, what do you expect? Well the people at the New York Times has provided us with a very detailed map to illustrate the point. Take a look at where you live and spot the dots, HERE.

08-06-2009 9:44 PM

Where not to leave your car keys

08-06-2009 9:36 PM

I suggest maybe a drawer or on a hook near the door, preferably on the inside of your apartment. Places I do not suggest; inside a lion or on a wrought iron fence post on Grattan street right near where you park.

Bushwick laden with golden dog shit.

08-06-2009 7:33 PM

Watch your step. Someone has taken the nuisance of people not curbing their dogs and highlighted it with a can of gold. One should note that once these guilded turds leave their landing sites, perfect golden outlines will remain; a reminder of their former presence.

Best link EVER!!!!!

08-06-2009 4:11 AM

You have to try this site it's fucking awesome.

Read [part II]

08-06-2009 4:03 AM

As seen in this post here, someone is really stressing the point to read. In my heart of hearts I want this person to be a librarian whose job is on the ropes. That, or a just some dork with a lot of spray paint. Either way I am on his or her side for whatever he or she is trying to say. Having trouble starting? Try this.

The man with the remote control car

08-04-2009 6:55 PM

If you ever chill near the Morgan stop you may be quite familiar with this guy. Typically shirtless, always quite over weight, this man likes to share his little hobby with the neighborhood. This remote control car of his is no ordinary toy mind you. Gas powered, fast as all hell, and buzzing like a massive insect on PCP, this thing tears down Bogart. Some consider him a menace, as the noise this thing makes is in fact loud. I hear that he has had the cops called on him before. Others like to watch and hope that eventually he will slip at the controls and run his little car under a vehicle. And then there are those who just ignore him and walk on their way in typical NYC fashion.

Read the signs

08-04-2009 6:41 PM

This may very well be correct.

What do you get when you cross......

08-04-2009 5:53 PM

a bunch of beer, a roof party, artists, a black marker and the drywall next to my bathroom? A divine dog by Dane. I like him, I named him ??????? ?????. Like him? Here's more of Dane's stuff

A very confusing sign

08-04-2009 5:35 PM

This is the sign above the car wash on the corner of Flushing Ave and Knickerbocker Ave. There's so much wrong with this sign I'm not sure where to begin. Well, first, how many fucking apostrophes do you need? Jesus, I just realized someone probably paid for this too. You would assume that somewhere along the lines of ordering this beaut it would have crossed someone who spoke English better than a four year old Chinese immigrant with little to no knowledge of the language. Does the machine that makes these signs not have spell check? Does the person operating it hate his job, or just this specific car wash? Oh and see that "wow" in the background? I'm pretty sure that's the building actually saying "wow, what a shitty sign" to itself because they printed it like this on both sides.

A sign with a message

08-04-2009 5:21 PM

Know your history

08-02-2009 6:19 PM

Movie on the roof

08-02-2009 2:26 PM

So we gathered once again. This time with the goal of watching Visioneers. It was a relatively low key night but have no doubts, fun was had. Where were you?

You really should

08-01-2009 1:50 PM

This a simple but important message: Read people. And really read. Surely this artist isn't suggesting you read Vice Magazine or TMZ.com. Read something informative, enlightening, or inspiring; something different that will make you a better person. Having a unique body of knowledge benefits everyone around you.

Psssst.......

07-31-2009 8:56 PM

This Saturday; the first day of August, we the fine people at The Bushwick Dream will be hosting our first movie screening. So whats on the menu? Why its the VISIONEERS, a new movie starring Zach Galifianakis(of G-Force fame). We are starting sometime around 8ish for some fine BBQing. At 9:30 or so we will be starting watching the aforementioned movie, and then well, we don't know yet but its sure to involve drinking and dammit, some fun. Do you wanna come? email us a thebushwickdream@gmail.com. yeah!

Why Brooklyn's Natural is a rip off.

07-29-2009 2:03 PM

Okay so we all know that Brooklyn's Natural, or "the snatch" as I prefer to call it is a rip off. Not because the same food, toiletries, animal food and whatnot is actually cheaper at Whole Foods, but they're charging more based on two things; 1) They kind of have a monopolistic stranglehold on the area, seeing as though they're the only ones open late and, well, they're the only ones, period. 2) They charge more because it's basically all organic. Well folks now you can just get shitty groceries with tons of chemical crap added because a giant independent study says ORGANIC DON'T MEAN SHIT! Read it here.

Weed and porn, alive and well. (And not to everyone's liking)

07-25-2009 11:26 PM

So the BrownSTONER.com posted an article about "our kids" being exposed to "pot in the park" and "porn at the library." They say it's part of the "local culture" and that "love it or hate it, it's here to stay." 1) If you are smoking weed near children in the park or near the playground, you could and should be arrested. Not because it's "against the law", but because "you're a fucking numb-skull." 2) If you are a grown adult and you are viewing porn on a library computer, you could and should beat off. Not because "it's the right thing to do" but because "you could and should be arrested." Read it here.

No it isn't

07-25-2009 9:50 PM

You can't fucking fool me.

Smoking to relax?

07-25-2009 9:47 PM

When you're all too awake do you have a smoke to calm your nerves? �Es usted un verde de dibujos animados con una guitarra y cigarrillos? This poster may be for you!!!

Now as passengers fly over our neighborhood they can read about it

07-25-2009 9:02 PM

Yes, it is true. You know those mundane little in-flight magazines they have on planes? Well British Airways has a version called "Highlife". In it they have an article highlighting bushwick, referring to it as a "time warp to a golden age of New York cool." Good god, I fear an eventual onslaught of gawking tourist.

The WTF Box

07-23-2009 9:42 AM

This box can be seen tucked in a small corner on vandervoort. Its hard to identify what this thing actually is. Standing on caster wheels, its has a strange tube thing sticking out of one side. On the other is a receded mirror box with a single wheel in the center. ...wtf? Take a look and tell me what it is.

What is that construction on Wyckoff @ Troutman????

07-23-2009 3:48 AM

Well booze, of course!! Plus some other neat crap. And, a few other spots too!!! Wine like a baby!!!

Help us, help you!

07-23-2009 3:38 AM

These dudes robbed a BP station at Bushwick and Troutman on 7/7 at 11pm. They are also suspected in robbing another place on Wilson ave. and Jefferson ave. on 6/26. Know em? The cops would love to know. Check out these morons on video. I don't know how why any of them wasn't chewing a piece of Bubblelicious to put over the lens. Also, no one at the Bushwickdream.net neither condones nor condemns the use of the NY Post, Toyota Prius, BP, the robbing of BP or theft in general. Don't get the wrong idea.

The Mafia, alive and kicking.

07-23-2009 1:18 AM

So I just saw something so cool. I was sitting in a bar off the L train which will remain nameless. All I can say is it's steps from an L train exit. I was sipping my rum when two dapper looking fellas came in and sat next to me. It's about 1 AM and the larger of the two men gave me a smile that chilled me to my very core. The barkeep walked up and handed the smaller gentleman a leather messenger bag. I think it's zippers were locked together, but I can't be sure. Now, the smaller chap was about 5'10" and 250 lbs. He had a head the length of a rugby ball and the genral roundness of a regulation dart board. Unfortunately, I have already drank too much to come up with any good synonyms for the larger, hulkish man. However, I digress. After the exchange of the briefcase the larger man ordered two shots of what I believe, was Jameson. They promptly did their shots and were handed a brown paper bag. Also, the smaller man gave the bartender what looked like slips for sports betting. It was like something out of "Goodfellas." I feel more like a man for having witnessed it. Also, if you see this post and it offends anyone in "the family" please just leave a message next to my sleeping wife in the form of a severed horse head. I'll get it when I get home, I work late.

This ain't no disco

07-22-2009 10:30 AM

It has already been mentioned right here but this is a reminder. This Friday you'll be expected to come to Tandem. You will be required to enjoy music as provided by B-rad, and drink. You like to drink, don't you?

Here is the flyer. Feel free to print it out and hand it out to friends and perfect strangers.

Bushwick..... the urban deffinition.

07-22-2009 12:06 AM

Yep. It's 95% wrong and filled with racist comments. Can't believe I read this. Make sure you make it to page 2. We're neatly filed between bushwhore (a blind follower of George W Bush and his administration's policies) and Bushwick Bill (of The Gheto Boys).

Goodbye Keith Haring. Again.

07-21-2009 10:41 PM

Well thanks to a bunch of fucking morons with mediocre art and no sense of WHAT IS FUCKING SACRED, we no longer have the giant mural near the corner of Houston and Bowery that was done by Keith Haring in 1982. I'm told it's Brazilian artists named Os Gemeos. Portuguese for "the twins." Apparently, it's identical twin brothers. How people with such an original name choice could choose such an already painted spot, I'll never know. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying this art ain't okay. It's aight. I've seen the one in Coney Island, but, it sure of fuck didn't belong on top of of a Haring mural. It's like taking the fountain in front of Lincoln Center and replacing it with an open urinal. I'd probably even LIKE it if it were somewhere else. HEY! I GOT IT!!! Put it HERE!!! Here's a link to The Gothamist of them painting it.

Bloomberg Bomb

07-21-2009 10:28 PM

Okay, I just saw this other day and I have been told by one of my investigative team members that it's been taken down already. Here is one of the odder street art/anti-Bloomberg pieces I've seen. I've only seen a few, but this one's neat because they used a horrifying picture of him. Also, I apologize for cutting off the words on the right in the second photo. If you use your brain just a little, you'll know what the words are supposed to say.

Wet pain?

07-21-2009 7:59 PM

You know how people are always chopping up those wet paint signs to say such clever musings as "ain't wet & wet taint." Well the other day when I got off the L train at 6th avenue I saw one that read "t pain." I don't know what the hell that means, but I'm pretty sure it's excruciating.

Tandem this Friday the 24th!!

07-20-2009 11:41 PM

If you attended the 308 Forth of July roof party and you enjoyed the music you should come to Tandem this Friday. Our own DJ "Silver Fox" is at it once again. He has an awesome music library for your listening/dancing pleasure. I am pretty sure he takes requests as well.. So come hang out, - 236 Troutman - enjoy a few tasty cocktails, and dance your M-Effing A$$ off!!

It is a roof. Use it!

07-19-2009 7:17 PM

Once again the masses gather on our rooftop thanks to the great people of 3R. Music, dancing, drinking and yes, some falling over. The roof didn't cave in, and though the cops stopped in front of the building, they didn't come in. All in all, a proper way to spend a Saturday.

Sorry about that

07-19-2009 3:17 PM

Just wanted to apologize for the downtime folks, ran into some unexpected issues with the server maintenance window but everything is back in order now.

iporn

07-17-2009 3:36 AM

I have come to the particularly ubsurd, gross realization that the porn revolution hath taken a crazy leap forward. Any device that is delivering Internet to phones is delivering porn. That's right, folks. Spank-ta-vision to go 24/7/52/365. You now have the right to look at the people who touch your food slightly differently. Also, I'd start tipping better and stop being rude just for the fuck of it. You want fries with that? No? What's that? Sorry no refunds.

Sal wants to buy the neighborhood

07-16-2009 12:03 AM

Today small envelopes appeared on the front doors of every residential building along Jefferson St near the Jefferson L stop. Written on each one, "To owner". Within each, a note offering cash for the property. One side in poor English. The other, poor Spanish. It was signed Sal. What are your intentions Sal?

What does the future have installed for us?

07-14-2009 3:25 PM

I would like to believe that in the future, say, when I'm like 60 (if I make it that far) things will have only changed for the funny. I hope to make a post about 30 years from now with an ipod hanging from razor wire.

Big Pimpin'

07-14-2009 3:21 PM

One white fedora with matching white shoes $185. One lime green suit, $150.99. Being so tired from pimpin' you're sleeping on a bench at third avenue..... fucking priceless.

Fucked up artist with fucked up art?

07-14-2009 2:46 PM

This may be for you!!! Click this bitch right here -----> Bitch

Michael Jackson in Bushwick???

07-14-2009 2:40 PM

Hell no, he "doesn't do Brooklyn." Take a read you'll see what I'm talking about.

A planter as shot from below

07-14-2009 12:33 AM

its all a matter of change in perspective.

Loitering pussy confirmed

07-14-2009 12:24 AM

As reported in an earlier post shown here, this feline has once again been spotted prowling in front of the Archive. I'm sure once again searching for a hipster with a sandwich that is susceptible to the power of cute. A friendly, clean and apparently well fed feline. Though he/she takes horrible pictures. Always blinking.

I wish noon was early.

07-13-2009 2:02 AM

I tell a girl I have to get up early in the morning for work. She ask,"What, like noon?" I tell her "8:30." Response,"wow, that's like the crack!" ...

Single cute bushwick girl of the week

07-11-2009 4:45 PM

If you are "intellectually stimulating, physically attractive..., considerate, love to cuddle, goal-orientated, respectful, giving, and loves to have FUN" you should definitely contact this cute girl. Just go HERE

Opening night at Factory Fresh

07-11-2009 1:10 PM

Once again a lively night filled with drinks, conversation and good art. Loro Verz, Apolo Torres & Mundano did some fantastic work and were amongst the most gracious and engaging artist, enthusiastically mingling and discussing their work with all that came. It was a lovely night that has left myself and I'm sure others with a well worth it hangover.

Bushwick in the 1970's

07-10-2009 3:11 PM

Gentrification is the "new fire."

How to be a terrible

07-10-2009 3:01 PM

So you're sitting around and you have some cardboard and spray paint. You're 19 and just read The Rum Diaries and "it changed your life." So epic. You're also not very creative and definitely you're not very smart. So what better way to immortalize good ol' Hunter than to spray paint HIS emblem in drab white on a brick wall the size of infant. Listen jerk off, if you're going to spray paint on a wall, do something good. Do something original. Don't take someone's shit that's already INCREDIBLY overplayed. Why don't you just spray paint the Nike sign everywhere, and sign it Banksy. Fucking idiot.

Factory Fresh as composed from many photos

07-10-2009 12:16 AM

Here is a look at Factory Fresh one day before the opening of their new show LICHEN by Loro Verz,Apolo Torres & Mundano. See you there Fri(7-10-09) 7-10pm.

Thank you Zach Galifianakis

07-09-2009 7:30 PM

You strange funny bastard. What new madness is this that you have graced us with?

Stupid hipsters? Brilliant opportunists? Three broke blokes?

07-07-2009 10:11 PM

I think they may be all three. Read on..... $100 RENTALS IN BUSHWICK???

This loitering pussy.....

07-07-2009 9:58 PM

I caught this cat hanging outside The Archive on Bogart street just mooching food from some dude who was eating a sammy. He said it wasn't his. If you see this cat, tell him your on to him and you're not playing "that" game.

SHHHHHHHH...........

07-07-2009 9:47 PM

I know what you did this summer............

Somewhere over a rainbow.......

07-07-2009 9:42 PM

A hipster is smoking Bali Shag. Also, God is smiling on Barack Obama

Sneak Peek of upcoming Lichen show at Factory Fresh

07-07-2009 9:19 PM

Always looking to keep things interesting, the people at Factory Fresh have yet again reached well beyond the borders of NYC, bringing in Brazilian artists Loro Verz, Apolo Torres & Mundano. Here is a peek at them at work as they prepare for the upcoming show, which opens Friday July 10th.

for more information, just check out Factory Fresh

Thiller interpretation by the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center

07-07-2009 12:58 AM

It is completely understandable that you could be sick of all the Micheal Jackson tributes and such. Yes he was an amazing performer. Yes in his private life he was wildly and in some forms dangerously eccentric, possibly fucked in the head. Yes he is dead. How many times do we have to have to watch his life outlined in tv special after special to get it? regardless of your fan/nonfan/superfan status, you have to appreciate this:

Have you seen the tree coil?

07-06-2009 11:30 PM

possibly a mechanical serpent, a vine from the future, or maybe a stake of metal doughnuts. who's to say? decoration, its not just for christmas trees anymore.

The day of independence celebrated thoroughly

07-05-2009 4:25 PM

If there are any questions as to what to do with the forth of July. Take a roof. Add equal parts people, food, drink and smoke. Have a top notch dj. Set things on fire. Go wild. Take pictures. Out of the 500+ photos taken last night, here is a taste:

Miss Bushwick Beauty Pageant

06-30-2009 10:18 PM

That is right, a beauty pageant! TAKE A LOOK

bedbug war......

06-24-2009 5:37 PM

Okay so here's the situation. My parents went away on a weeks vacation. But enough about that, on to the bedbugs. This is the 2nd one you've found there RD. I think you need a ton of poisonous white powder strewn throughout your mattress and hard wood floors. If you need help I would try hazmat. Also from now on anyone entering my apartment will have to strip naked and be deloused like jail. I already have roaches (not even the "cool kind") I don't need bedbugs too.

Fucking bedbugs

06-24-2009 3:29 PM

There is no escaping them. No matter how cautious you may be. They will find a way to crawl in your window or ride one of your friends into your apartment. This little bastard I found darting around frantically in my bedroom. It was odd. He must have been lost. His death came by way of the blunt force of a copy of 1984 catching him as he tried to scurry along the edge of my dresser. I am now left with the concern that he may have siblings.

Bushwick as according to craigslist

06-23-2009 5:57 PM

Who doesn't love free shit. For those of you in the area who act fast, Bushwick is offering a flat file, some film, vintage playboys and cardboard tubes. If you ask the guy he also has lots of scrap fabric to get rid of. Its slim pickings in terms of adult services. it seems that locally you would have to choose between a self proclaimed super sexy ebony beauty and, well, the shemale beauty. Ummmm....yeah.

Our little community in the spotlight

06-22-2009 2:54 PM

Somewhere, this bill exist in circulation

06-22-2009 1:23 PM

How do you guarantee at least a minimal value to your artwork along with maximum exposure? Draw on money! In no way would we condone such an action. It is illegal, but well, you know.

This bill is worth five whole dollars.

Maybe the Welders after party/BBQ

06-22-2009 11:29 AM

After a night of...lets say "rocking out" at Goodbye Blue Mondays , Greg; singer and guitarist for Maybe the Welders made us some quite enjoyable food on our roof. He provided the drinks also. This is how you spend a Sunday night.

Ian serves as a good reminder for cautious bike riding

06-22-2009 10:56 AM

Remember people, those streets are dangerous, especially with this recent dark rainy weather. Not everyone gets struck by a car and comes away with just some scraps and bruises like this lucky bastard.

Live

06-22-2009 9:07 AM

Everything should be live and ready to go folks, have fun!