The city of Bethlehem…most people know it as Jesus’ birthplace, others know it as a ghetto where a large wall stands in hopes to keep violence out. This wall is a symbol of the politically and emotionally charged Israel-Palistinian conflict. It separates two countries, two nationalities, two beliefs. Banksy, one of my favorite artists, showed up in Bethlehem just last week. He painted and left. My two faves from this Middle East exhibit were a dove wearing a bulletproof vest, and a camel being asked his identity papers. Brilliant. All the other artists there use the wall as a way to send their own messages; generally to break out of the confines of the city. Right now at Banksy’s Santa’s Ghetto, there is an exhibit on Bethlehem 2007. Wish I was there. Here are some pics that I pulled off the net. Enjoy - sorry for the size inconsistency.
Ever so often you have one of those days when bright ideas just hit you…perhaps they are ignited by something you see on the street, something you hear on the radio, a conversation, or just being deep in thought. And then you have one of those days where the people around you inspire you.
We were taking care of inventory this evening while CNN was on in the background. The live broadcast of CNN Heroes was airing, and we were immediately drawn to the segment on young heroes. These are like kids under 20 who have those bright ideas but not for themselves; they are for someone less priviledged. It was amazing. With all the 2007 lists coming out in the media this month–worst breakups, best style, most lavish weddings, et al–the CNN Heroes list was quite refreshing. I’m going down in history for this shameless plug, but be a hero, too. Get a love.life.hope tee and one gets sent to a child in the Philippines on your behalf.
On Wednesday mornings, I usually go to this thrift store in the valley and try to find some deals. I’ve always been infatuated with things vintage, so I try to get ideas for reprinting on old t-shirts, or incorporating some weird prints that I see. I’ve been successful with some items (which you’ll see in a few months). But most of the time, I’m picking up stuff for myself. So today, I got this old ski sweater with a very odd print that will likely be my Christmas sweater. I also copped these sunglasses that my aunt probably wore while driving the black Camaro back in the day. I spent a total of $4.97. You’ll find me back there next week. [edit] I showed my mom the sunglasses and she was very excited to see that the brand was Oleg Cassini. I had to look him up; for a dollar, I got some sunglasses by a designer who hooked up former first lady, Jackie O. Niiice.
K-Fed hits me up on the AIM and is like, “I’m jonesin’ for some Korean BBQ.” And I’m like, “YEEEEAAH, see you tonight at Manna!!”. If my LA people haven’t been to this open air, meat smellin, tootsie rolls in a bowl, buttons to call your waiter/ress, pineapple soju, all you can grub, orange polos place, you’re crazy!!
The new love.life.hope tees are in stock and ready to be shipped. This is the CA x BUKID KABATAAN release we’ve been excited about all month. For the 2007 holiday season, Chicharon Adventures has collaborated with Bukid Kabataan for a t-shirt drop in Cavite, Philippines. It works like this: For every charity t-shirt you buy, we will send one to a child of Bukid Kabataan on your behalf. Founded in 1989, Bukid Kabataan is a therapeutic shelter for children who have experienced physical and sexual abuse by their own families. Some have been abandoned or orphaned having lived on the streets prior to their arrival at the center. The shelter empowers the children through psychological healing and building of self-esteem, physical development, education, and occupational training such as farming. Through this project, Chicharon Adventures hopes to raise awareness about the marginalized population of our culture. We have chosen to use the words love, life, and hope to illustrate the feelings that every child deserves. The t-shirt will be a constant reminder of these three things.