Section 8: Niagara Contemporary Art

Teach'z of Peach'z in T.dot

2011-08-05T19:24:00.009-04:00

Hey Kidz!! To any S8 followers out there who are living in - or passin' thru the big T City this month, be sure to swing by Pentimento Fine Art Gallery to czech the 'Home Girls' exhibition featuring work by 30 local artists including work by Section 8's Tess Millar. The show features a variety of portrait work based on the theme of famous Canadian women. The gist of the show is to give visitors the chance to vote on featured work, the winning piece of which is to be resized and affixed as a mural to the side of a Queen St East building wall.

The exhibition is open to public viewing as of August 4th, and the opening reception starts at 6pm on August 10th. come n' get taught.

While you're at it, be sure to czech the gallery's grand Summer Salon featuring a fine variety of artwork by notable artists, including photography by fellow Niagara native Darryl Block.

For more info, visit the gallery's website or blog!!
Pentimento Fine Arts Gallery: First Canadian Place. 100 King St West. Toronto.
xx.

Month Of Musik

2011-06-28T00:54:00.003-04:00

This week our formerly quaint city of St. Kitts turned into a real good horror show me brothers. With angel's trumpet and devil's trombone, almost every bar has been packed with bands since the beginning of the month, and especially recently with the coming of Scene. Last Friday, S8 and friends went out to City Lights for a little blues history with the notorious Blind Boy Paxton. We looked on as this veteran of music lost himself in it, but not enough to forget shaking his gangster violin hand at all the people for their hootin' and drunken rambling. "I'll beat cho ass" he'd tell us when we forgot what was what. Strict teacher that he is, the man holds the world title for chill when the bottles are a breaking. I watched as he literally ended the oppression of violence and tyranny with the power of his feared fiddle. He then saluted his new blood dripping friend with a toast and we all had shots. It's been estimated by professionals of the field that Paxton had a sum of 45 that evening.

Oh, and of course the heoric blues duo of our fair city (Danny Phelan and Alex Andrews) had something to do with this, in fact they planned the whole thing in between train hopping through the United States.

photocred: Andrew Arkell

And that isn't all me brothers. This Scene Fest, S8's Re-Bops played Chili Pepper, had a TV interview, and out of 160 bands they got a mondo size picture featured in the Thursday Standard. I shamefully missed their set while covertly setting up a semi-authorized merch table in market square. 3 bands abandoned tables were successfully usurped and a bunch of prints were sold. Meanwhile, the rest of St. Catharines got ultra-violent, shutting down at least 3 major bars due to some wicked brawls at Rockford's, Mansion and L3. Many now walk around scarred after The Cancer Bats show turned the Barracuda Pretty parking lot into a battleground. Perched teenagers watched from the parking garage as limbs and entire persons were hurtled through the air. At the end of the night Merchant Ale House was the place to be thanks to the killer performances by The Dirty Mags and Young Rival. The Young Rival show was fucking magical. The whole bar traded sweat in a crazy intimate dance throw down that persisted until that bald guy pulled the plug and kicked everybody out. Reeeal savage.

photocred: Asta McCann

Welland Shows Love for Urban Art

2011-06-17T22:54:00.000-04:00

Last week (June 12th) the city of Welland actually showed some appreciation for the art of graffiti at their annual Welland Art Fest in Merritt park. I only found out about it at the last minute when I was dragged out of bed and driven down to see many Section 8 artists already down there spraying paint on to huge boards (Dead Weight, Soap, Phews and Ners). It was a good jam with live music at the amphitheater, photographers and fine art merchants wandering around while young punks jumped off the bridge into the lake. The Festival was for all forms of art but was saturated with so much graff style, I heard a few people call it the Urban Arts Fest.

Bitchin' new character by Phews

I guess it's just cool to finally see some respect for graffiti as an art on a municipal level. So in the midst of all this crackdown bullshit, my hats off to Welland for the time being.

Just don't eat the hotdogs...

Teddy Troops X Section 8

2011-06-10T22:26:00.003-04:00

I've recently been in contact with the great Flying Fortress; designer of the well known Teddy Troop vinyl collectibles. After some negotiation, together we'll be unleashing a wave of 10 custom made and painted Teddy Troop soldiers customized by the visual artists of Section 8. This will be for an art show that's still to be announced, so stay tuned.

Cracks in the Sky

2011-06-09T19:38:00.001-04:00

As it turns out, capturing the swift hand of Zeus almighty with our feeble digital cameras isn't that challenging. Two nights ago I sat atop my roof in the thunderstorm snapping photo after photo of the sky. Using just a basic tripod and half second exposures on a Canon Rebel T1i, I managed to get about 30 shots containing some form of lightning or another. It takes persistence, and good timing, (not to mention a large memory card) but I'd say any moderately skilled photographer could pull off some sick lightning shots with some effort. I got my first capture 4th try with my iphone.
Lightning photography; It's not impossible, and it's tons o' fun.

So go ahead kids, climb atop a high structure aiming your metal object towards powerful electricity, it's worth it.

*section 8 assumes no liability for anyone who actually does this*

This one reminds me of Arcade Fire's neighborhood.

Trading Paint with Scion

2011-05-29T18:07:00.002-04:00

Yesterday Scion celebrated their brand new dealership opening by inviting DEAD WEIGHT and DOWN to jazz up a brand new Scion. I went by to snap some flicks and this is what I had the pleasure of witnessing. After talking to some representatives, it sounds like some future collaborations with the Scion mecha and Section 8 are a definite possibility.

The whip looks sick boys. Pics of the completed car still to come, and you all best keep your eyes out to see it driving through town.

New work by Symptomz

2011-05-27T17:50:00.001-04:00

We caught up with the writer SYMP for some snaps of his latest work done with pen and brush.
This new canvas of his is an homage to the timeless classic Clockwork Orange, titled Sympamesc.
Makes me want to go down to the Korova milk bar for a drink.

Some 'sketches' from SYMP's ol' blackbook.

Skate Art

2011-05-22T22:34:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all who came out to see our first annual skate art display at the disco gallery!
This actually went down like a month ago, but I'll just recap for nostalgia sake.
J. Coopman came through with a whole pile of canvases and old decks with grip art and a series of stereotypical skateboarding antagonists. There was also art from Tobey Anderson, Jose A. Medina, Omar Efe, Mike Dirisio, Melony, Marinko, Dragon, and Taylor Perry. Together the artists and patrons drank many beers, hung out on rooftops, fell off of rooftops, skated around the gallery and the town, and enjoyed the last night of the dream machine pillow pit. There was also live music by Chris Jensen. It was a night to remember.

But if you missed out, both the skate art display, and the new bobble head display are up at the disco patiently awaiting your visit. Just get at me or Marinko and we'll give you the tour.

It's finally nice out, go skate & destroy.

Welcome to District 905

2011-05-19T14:25:00.001-04:00

The Thoth has been looking mighty fresh lately. With this belated nice weather getting to us in the late of May, tis finally the season. A couple weeks back I went down with DS and some other local hoods to enjoy the classic creek ritual. With spots set out, we had some beers, painted some pieces and characters, and threw all the empty spray cans into the pit for some relaxing explosions. After, we paid a visit to the creekside fort, which managed to survive that psychotic wind storm.

Yes Indeed, Our Sanctuary is a pretty place. Go take a tour sometime. Just be forewarned that these toy hunters shoot on sight.

Creek days are upon us, and Section 8 shall be spending more time down at the Thoth. I know I'll be there. Perhaps an S8 Jam is an order.

Surf Rock. In Your Town.

2011-04-25T14:52:00.002-04:00

The Re-Bops are the newest rockabilly surf rock band in St. Catharines. They shred raw rhythmic jams that are stylistically comparable to spills on concrete amidst broken glass after rough sex and games with kerosene. They'll put you on a wild ride like a gnarly Californian wave, and just as swiftly stab you with a rusty piece of re-bar. This garage style rock n' roll ain't for the light of heart and will probably cause all sorts destruction to the stability of today's youth.
enjoy.

The Re-Bops are one selection of artists under Section 8's new action as an indie label. Joining them in this endeavor is solo musician Chris Jensen who is recording an album in our studio. The Re-Bops have just finished their first EP, Stiletto Beach, and want you to have a copy. Visit them and more of their surf rock action at their myspace : http://www.myspace.com/therebopsband

Media Madness

2011-04-24T13:51:00.000-04:00

So it looks like the media machine has caught on to our little underground mafia of artists. Our friend Andrew Baulcomb from Niagara This Week asked me last week for an interview which turned into quite a decent feature on the front page of Arts & Life. We also have some love coming up from the Standard for the upcoming Bobble-head show at the disco gallery, so that's pretty cool too.
Czech the Scoop here ---> http://www.niagarathisweek.com/what%27s%20on/article/996717--fight-fire-with-fire

URBAN SPRAWL

2011-03-07T21:40:00.000-05:00

This Saturday, Anah Shabbar and Madison Greer hosted a sweet little show out of Bang On Salon known as Urban Sprawl. This rockin' art show featured work by local artists including some of our own. All the pieces in the show related to urbanization, how it affects nature and the human experience. I especially enjoyed the photography, and the latest work by our own Tess Millar, which is the amazing dear featured below, painted on raw canvas. Bang On is yet another awesome space in downtown St. Catharines that you can rely on the appearance of new style from our growing art scene. Bang On has a perfect long white wall for art displays along with an easy access art hangin' apparatus, making for an ideal spot for a gallery.

Drinks were had, wisdom was shared, and friends were made at this hoppin' yet underground event. It was great to see some aesthetic commentary on the ol' surrounding all-consuming sprawl and urban living as well. Thanks for the show guys! Do it again soon!

Section 8 in NYC.

2011-02-28T00:59:00.001-05:00

This past week, I've been hanging with the talented artists of Section 8 in the Big Apple. We've had some killer times already, seeing some famous works by Dali, Warhol, Lichtenstein, Picasso, Magritte, and some new shakers including the notorious 'Misttuh Braainwash!'. Chris played 'Sweat For It' walking right through the heart of Time Square, Omar and Mike threw up some fantastic pastes in Greenpoint, and we've been having all round good times and making friends all over Brooklyn and Manhattan. Just today I encountered BASK and TES ONE working on some commissioned wall in Williamsburg.
All these wonderful exploits aside, we have run into some legal issues.. Today we were chased by a dedicated member of the NYPD for wheat pasting. I managed to escape, but some of our comrades (who will remain nameless) have been tragically locked away for the night in a holding cell in the fine city of New York. This one goes out to them, and the rest of Section 8 wishes you boys the best of luck in the slammer.
In the meantime, here is a small taste of the brilliant street art we've been seeing in Williamsburg.

Let My People Go!!

The Love Monster

2011-02-18T20:52:00.000-05:00

Alright so maybe it's a tad late for a valentines day post, but do you really think the featured monster bellow gives a damn about you or your greeting card selling, chocolate devouring, love exploitation holidays? NO. All this all-consuming beast cares to do is devour your love, every shred of the juicy pink goop. This here is my simplistic portrayal of the way love can be used as currency, frequently exchanged and devoured in today's society like any other object of value. This gluttonous monster down here lives off the stuff. Can't get enough, much like certain undeserving celebrities of an industrialized culture such as our own. But never mind all that now. Happy (belated) Valentines day! Hope all you lovers had a good one.

Love,
Sec. 8

Love Monster. by Jamez Townsend.

The Sound of a Showdown

2011-01-31T00:49:00.001-05:00

Here's a new two part series I finished while working at the disco gallery last night. We're going to be open every Friday and Saturday from now on, so feel free to stop in to check the latest works of the new brow scene. We'll have something wild and new popping up in the space every week.

Anyway, this one's all about the dichotomy of music aesthetics, divided by the new wave, and the ol' skool. Almost characterized by their sense of conflict and contrast, both sides have their own following army. Whether they're made up of them young punk earbudder techno hooligans, or the old fogies holding their pride for there phonographs and mix tapes, it's all music. These are some depictions of the multiple music mediums and some of the controversies that come attached to them.

Section 8 presents...

Admiral Analog

Dominant Digital

by Jamez Townsend

It's an 'ARTy' Party!

2011-01-19T13:13:00.000-05:00

So we kicked off the new year with a little hiatus there.. but now we're back, and to make it up to you readers, we're throwing a party at the disco gallery and then City Lights this upcoming tuesday. It is a so called 'Arty Party' so feel free to bring your art, sketchbooks, and ideas along. I'll be doing some live painting along with Marinko, and others. Guaranteed interesting tunes and live DJing and loads of drinks available. And of course most of the Section 8 crew will be kickin'it there as well.

6pm - 10pm at the disco gallery (24 James Street) all ages
10pm into the morning at City Lights (67 St. Paul) 19 +

Here's a tuesday you can't say there's nothing to do.

Section 8 Welcomes Dead W8!

2010-12-28T19:04:00.000-05:00

Section 8 is proud to present our newest artist addition; Dead Weight. He is both a talented local street artsit and fine artist of St. Kitts, and a strong new member of our collective. This is just a sneak look at some of his work, so stay tuned for some more pieces, links and possibly an interview from this mischievous maker of monsters.

With so much style and skill climbing aboard our crew, the apocalypse is becoming more and more of a certainty. This may indeed just be the beginning, of the end.

Tatty east-side punks.

2010-12-20T00:06:00.001-05:00

I caught up with the beautiful Shelby Sargo to do some rooftop photography before the freezing weather kicked us all in the teeth. Shelby rocks a film camera in stylish ways that just aren't seen enough anymore. Even a good lens breaking is something she takes in stride, and then turns into an aesthetic advantage. I asked Shelby to be a part of the Section 8 team, and I'm pretty sure she agreed.. so here's some of her wonderful photo work from her latest album "Tatty east-side punks."

During our shootout, (first two photos only) I was playing with an awesomely cheap fisheye camera. so I'll post some of those after I get my lazy ass over to the drug store to have 'em developed.

Art Show weekends with the disco gallery!

2010-12-14T18:24:00.001-05:00

During the past few weeks, Section 8 has been having a series of art shows out of the disco gallery, our new friends and bizniss associates. Here is a teasing image of some of the art that was on display. The shows so far have been fruitful and good fun. We plan on improving promotion, the space, and the content to have some even more interesting times in the future. After the first show, which was a bit of an art crawl night, we headed over to the nac for an after party equipped with DJing, Drinks, Dancing and some Fine Art by Marinko Jareb.

Last weekend, we reopened for a part II show. It was great to see some old friends as well as some new, so thanks to everyone for coming out. The most notable success of the night came when Tess Millar's popular Joker and Queen series sold for 500 bones to the wonderful Deborah Jackson.

Thanks again to all that came out. We're taking a little break for awhile to renovate the space and create/gather some new pieces. Starting next week, we'll be opening the shop weekly to distribute our propaganda of new brow culture to the public. There will be new things constantly, so come check out 24 James often.

Welcome to The Disco Gallery

2010-11-24T22:38:00.005-05:00

This is the newest, freshest place in the neighborhood. Located just above The Office at 24 James street downtown St. Catharines, rests this new branch of the Cram Gallery. Think of it as a hub for underground culture, a place for anyone looking for something a little different than the tedious traditionalism of conventional commercialism. Here is a place where you can trade boring ol' bills for local and stylish fine art, underground art toys, art tees, fresh tunes and more. Or just come by, take in the sights and talk culture.

Meet Marinko Jareb, the clever lad behind the counter.

Marinko's another local artist, and the man that put the disco gallery together. With his partner in crime, Dragon, these dudes are helping bring the underground to the light. Marinko will be having a show/party at the nac this Saturday night, while Section 8 will be watching the disco gallery and having a group show 7-9. Official event info coming up next.
The disco gallery is still quite new and unknown, but has the potential to become a boomin' little culture shop. So come out this Saturday night and become a part of our vision.

Catchiness in threes

2010-11-03T11:47:00.003-04:00

SAINT CATHARINES – On Monday, November 1^st, The Mansion House was given the great pleasure to host Toronto-based Indie Rock band The Wooden Sky. Having been absent to shows for a while and going in not knowing anything of the bands that were coming around, I was a little anxious to see what would come out. I find I can formulate a more structured opinion when new music comes through my ears in the form of a live performance. I was given in return an incredible evening (excluding the 8$ pitchers at the Chili Pepper after the show).

The beginning of the night featured a band from Kentucky called These United States. The shining point of these guys was the excellent use of a pedal steel to bring out the melody of each song. I found their vocalist to be quite unique and urge that they be checked out on their myspace page right away. Their overall sound and composition was very satisfying and was a great start for the next two bands.

The next band to play was Yukon Blonde from my hometown of Vancouver, BC. Of the three acts, this one was easily the most energetic. Each musician was so absorbed in to the set that the audience could only let the music in and cheer. The vocal melodies and harmonies these guys performed were unreal. About midway through the set, I already had the melodies stamped in to my head, and they are still ringing through my ears right now. To get an idea of what I mean, watch the video I have posted for this band. If you are not singing: “Wind blows, can you hear the wind blow? Listen to the raindrops outside of my window” by the end of the song, you must stop reading this review. These guys were fantastic and I hope they come back soon. It was a performance absolutely not worth missing. They were a fantastic opening for the next act, the headliners.

By the end of this great night was The Wooden Sky. To put it shortly, these musicians have their shit together. There was not one dull moment in the set. There was such a great mellow vibe coming from them that I couldn’t help but to just relax and let the music do its work. The passion this band takes in stage performance is huge and the mood left indescribable. Vocals and harmonies were spot on, energy completely present, and band completely composed. Vocalist Gavin Gardner will remind the listener that music has meaning to it, and with great instrumentation to back it up, he yells feeling in to your ears.

One more thing I really enjoyed about this night was how nice the bands were to each other. Song after song featured members from all bands coming up to dance and jam. The end of the set had Yukon Blonde and Wooden Sky all together playing some sort of instrument, whether it was a drum or just a lid being bashed with a stick. The companionship that surrounded these two bands definitely created a great mood for the night, adding to the fun that music must be. Overall, this was an incredible evening with undeniable musicianship.

-ARKD

Check the bands out here:

http://www.myspace.com/theseunited

http://www.myspace.com/yukonblondeband

http://www.myspace.com/thewoodensky

'Extinguish The Flame'

2010-10-24T14:23:00.000-04:00

WARNING: Creativity Strictly Prohibited
Artistic concepts encourage dangerous new ideas by criticizing our already structured and functional society. The 'Creatives' intend to infect your mind with nihilistic principles and unorthodox understandings of beauty. Engage With Caution!

A new piece from yours truly.

Super Gas Rock Ghoul Show

2010-10-23T18:50:00.003-04:00

Section 8's 'Department of 150 Miles Per Hour Killer Blues Rock Jams' aka the 'Gas Station Junkies' put on one hell of a rock show last weekend. Using the ol' long exposure camera shake technique I was able to capture the music. After some blood shed in the opening GSJ show, James Jagger came by with his band Turbogeist to finish up. Wild night.

'Out of the Frying Pan' notice that Chris here is not actually a man, but a Rock Ghoul.

'Power Share' Liam Cosby chews on some freshly cracked rock lightning

Photography by Jamez Townsend

Live Aids Niagara Graff Jam

2010-09-26T18:00:00.000-04:00

Exactly a week ago the Writers of St. Catharines and some names from Hamilton had a graff jam in the Fulton Alley. The result is a large Halloween themed mural, dripping with style. The Alley is filled with new graffiti, so you should probably take your deals and dice playing there for an enjoyable atmosphere.

Fresh New Vinyl

2010-09-20T00:13:00.000-04:00

Right before I concluded my most recent visit to Edmonton, I painted this little monster for my greatest patron. It is a custom painted Mega Munny, codename DataDex 3013. This android creature of my creation is best known for traveling the universe, establishing renewable resources, and destroying industries and capitalists that stand in his way. This guy is one of a kind and stands approximately 2 feet high.

I hear we have a distributor of vinyl toys in St. Catharines now, so some new characters are a definite possibility.

over and out.

Section 8 Model photography? Damn Straight.

2010-08-25T20:55:00.001-04:00

The self portrait has become an incredibly prevalent image, yet quite bastardized and destroyed in an aesthetic sense thanks to facebook and myspace. Nevertheless they remain to be an important way of expressing oneself in the world of photography. That said, Section 8 would like to kick of a modeling campaign, with these stylish self portraits of Ashlee Nugent. An awesome chick who knows how to take a picture of herself right. With style and pizazz.
Enjoy.

Introducing Tess Millar!

2010-08-20T16:08:00.005-04:00

Section 8 is proud to present a new feature, our latest artist; Tess Millar.
She is incredibly talented and we're happy to have her aboard. This here is an octopus swimming in a mirror, and is one of many intuitive creations from her site; First Impressions & Second Chances. Tess has done a year at the Ontario College of Art and Design, and it certainly shows.
Tess likes to mix around with different mediums and materials. She is very expressive and understanding of the meanings and metaphors she puts into her works. Tess and Section 8 are very excited to work together, and we hope to bring some more attention to the lowbrow/newbrow art movements in the Niagara art scene, and other cities, respectively.

check out more of this talented local here ---> http://tessmillar.tumblr.com

A big welcome to you Tess! From all at Section 8. I'm sure the art scene will be seeing a lot more of you in the near future.

'The Magpie and The Roving Mind'

2010-08-15T19:36:00.002-04:00

12 Days ago The Arcade Fire released 'The Suburbs'
It is a masterpiece. Which is why I feel compelled to share it. I saw them in concert yesterday on Olympic Island and it changed my life. 'The Suburbs' expresses a duality of resentment towards the infectious suburban lifestyle, juxtaposed with a nostalgia of growing up as a child. This coupled theme best expressed by Sprawl parts 1 and 2. With an Album as strong as Funeral to be this young bands first studio LP, being in the midst of one of our generations greatest bands, is becoming more and more clear.

3 Jacks and the predatory wasp.

2010-08-15T16:18:00.005-04:00

It is true that Section 8 had a fulfilling time in Montreal. We distorted sound to a new level of majesty, got up to some 'performance art' of sorts, our fair share of the old fashioned shenanigans and debauchery of course, and I made a painting here expressing the symbolism of our characters. It's actually a very personal piece that I couldn't expect any outsiders to understand. But us jacks and the predatory wasp hovering above share a special creative bond.
After many existential revelations and good times, I've decided to make Section 8 trips a more frequent experience. So look out for those.
You'll also notice the omniscient presence of the number 3. The three is an important and symbolic number for us and possibly more of you bohemian spirits out there.

Good things happen in 3

Gord?

2010-08-11T16:34:00.002-04:00

So.. In Montreal, Section 8 got up to some performance art.. This piece portrayed a certain cosmic irony of a monster (Gordon) being obliviously controlled by The Master (played by Liam Cosby). Now Gordon would go up to strangers on the street of St. Catharine in Montreal, rattling his tin cup screaming GORRDD!! Unaware ...that in reality he was the very creature he spent such misery searching for. The Man in the red plaid and the top hat used this to take advantage of this less than intelligent creature, constraining him with a chain of Christmas tree lights. He would make Gord dance in the street for his own amusement, cackling a maniacal laugh as confused passer-bys watched in horror and awe. The police eventually came to intrude, seeing that we must have been up to no good. I confused them more with a sign claiming that the entire event was a street performance, and then we walked off, still in character.

We're making shirts!

2010-07-09T00:17:00.002-04:00

Support Section 8 with the purchase of these funky underground art tees!
contact jamez_t@hotmail.com to get yours!

Spill Paint Not Blood.

2010-06-16T17:33:00.001-04:00

World Peace Right?

2010-05-20T18:50:00.001-04:00

IMG_0373, originally uploaded by Jamez Townsend.

In this lovely month of May there hasn't been a whole lot to post actually.
But I have been hanging out with the gnarly local band known as The Gas Station Junkies. And here they are in a photo straight from the ol' iPhone.
Check them out at Delyla's Rock Garden on the 29th! Get down to the new rock n' roll music. Right Now. later on.

The Edmonton Show

2010-04-17T20:06:00.005-04:00

'The Edmonton Show' is an arts collective hosted by ECGAS (The Edmonton Common Ground Arts Society) They put on these great shows about once a month, and pack them full of great visual and performance art. This particular show was from the 8th to the 10th and was a very good time. For example, what you see above is a man by the name of Ben Disaster, wrapped in christmas lights rocking out some soulful jams.

And here is a band by the incredibly stylish name of 'Wool on Wolves'
I picked up their EP on an account of how dope they are.

Here was my display for the show. A few new pieces of mine, along with some work from the iHuman studio.

The 3 nights were very eventful and loaded with local talent. I highly recommend coming by the next show if you're in Edmonton. To find out when that might be, please check out their site at www.ecgas.org for more information.

Fresh Vinyl

2010-04-14T23:43:00.004-04:00

So I know I haven't posted anything in a long ass time, but I'm going to be more on top of things for the coming months. So here is something I've been looking forward to for awhile.
Custom painted vinyl toys are a growing part of new brow visual culture, so here is my first but not final attack on a munny world series trikky for my good buddy greg. I will say these things are quite fun to paint on, and I will be doing custom ones for 50 each. It would be cool to get some other s8 artists on this band wagon. Hope you all enjoy.

Posts covering 'The Edmonton show' and other wonderful things coming soon. Promise.

'The Emmigration of Non-Specific Ideas' Opening Night!

2010-02-26T00:04:00.006-05:00

The show turned out beeeautifully. We finally finished and had the show with 30+ plus pieces after only two weeks of solid work. Thanks to the patronage of so many, we got very close to our goal of 1500 for Jamaica this summer. I was very happy with the turn out, so huuge thanks to all of you who came out.
All the pieces were mixed media and based around the ceaselessly important theme of communication. Mostly recycled materials were used, including found wood, various inks, and old newspapers and magazines of different cultures.

By the time Colchester got on stage and music picked up, things were really kickin. I sang. And anyone can tell you how rare that is. Michael St. George on drum there, Master of the fine organization of T.A.P. We even had mimes running around. Big thanks to them for that great work. Large thanks to Rox and Tiffany of T.A.P. as well for managing everything.

All in all it was a damn good party for our first show. We're not stopping here either. The official Section 8 show coming up next. I'm glad everyone got to see a taste of our bohemian vision of culture. Much more to come as well. email me at jamez_t@hotmail.com to be put on the mailing list for a notice to the next one. See more photos on my flickr, which is accessible simply by clicking on my tab up top. Thanks again so much to everyone for your donations, purchases and appearances. Let's keep the culture flow on full. cheers to all.
In style we trust.

'You Can't Plan Good Days'

2010-02-15T17:18:00.002-05:00

Omar and I celebrate a productive day and the closing in of the show. We still have mad work to do, but we're in good spirits about it. In a week and a half we've produced about 15 pieces. We're shooting for about 10 more in between posting posters, getting everything framed, and setting up the gigs.. but we're not worried. Only 5 days until it all unfolds. There will be a lot of great pieces for sale, so if you feel the need to buy something worthwhile it would help us out a lot with our journey to Jamaica.

Here's a little peak at something we accomplished last night between our photography foolery, GoGol Bordello dancing, and some fine wine. Damn fun night.
You can't plan good days.

Art Show Postah

2010-02-08T02:15:00.001-05:00

poster concept, originally uploaded by Jamez Townsend.

So here it is, and fast approaching. This is a show you won't want to miss. It's a one day thing and is going to be a party, so come check it out.
For a sneak peek at what we'll be showing, just stay tuned as we follow a bit of the future action as it unfolds. Hope to see you there!

Show Set Up

2010-02-08T00:58:00.002-05:00

During the past week, Omar and I have been working like mad for our up coming show at the Niagara Artist Centre, "The Emigration of Non-Specific Ideas". The show is entirely collaborative and mixed-media. We've been using everything from good ol' india ink to scraps of 1970's life magazines. The show is all about exploring the diverse and limitless topic of communication and it's importance. To visually express such a concept, we've been studying the nature of people, and how we all interact with eachother. The two of our styles combined creates such a clash and flow, meant to represent the world's diversity of interaction.

With less than two weeks to go, we've spent all our time drawing and painting, with a few breaks in between to munch out on avocados in Omar's kitchen. We're having a great time merging such different styles, and driving each other crazy. I usually just crash in the basement around 3 and we get back into what we're doing the next day.

The reason we're doing all this is for your entertainment of course, and to raise money for a good will mission to Jamaica. The show is going to feature all original and never before seen pieces done by Omar and myself, as well as some live music, and possibly something delicious. There will be a donation box, as well as many enjoyable and affordable paintings and prints. Admission is completely free.
It's all happening right now, and will be coming together for February 20th at nac on St. Paul. 6 - 9pm. So grab some friends, maybe a camera, and come enjoy a fresh dose of visual and auditory expression and culture.

ASPKT

2010-01-11T21:06:00.002-05:00

I'll be working with ASPKT, a local crew dedicated to hip hop and freshness.

We'll be making some stylish T's and shit like that soon. Out of this will come some slick Conspire shirts as well as Section 8 tees. So check out this link for some local beats and a look at what's to come.

http://www.myspace.com/embraceit4

2009-12-22T15:52:00.004-05:00

Omar has been hard at work with fund raising for Colombia, selling prints etc.
But still manages to have some funtimes and work a very sweet style hes had going on recently. They're very fun.

If you are interested in purchasing some of this fellas artwork, please email him at omarefe05@gmail.com
Proceeds will go toward a trip to Colombia, for the building of a sustainable farm for the sake of eradicating hunger. He has many prints available, and we will be doing a lot of fundraising for that in the new year. Stay tuned for more posts concerning that, because we'll need all the help we can get.

Capital Coliseum

2009-12-15T14:49:00.004-05:00

So heres a piece I've been working on for awhile. Not sure what to do with it yet.. I'd like it displayed in a high traffic area due to the nature of the work. It's based on this consistently competive capitalism and the self defeating socio-econmic state of affairs in which we live. I won't say to much more about that because the point is to express it visually, but I'm sure you get the idea.

Acrylic, Ink and Watercolour on Matte
11 x 14

Sold The Series !

2009-12-03T03:22:00.001-05:00

Meet the Rebels Series, originally uploaded by Jamez Townsend.

And to celebrate, I'll be releasing quality prints of them for $10 each, framed. They'll be printed from high quality pictures on photo paper, for a crisp detailed visual of each hilarious rebel. If you want one, just let me know. - jamez_t@hotmail.com
They'll make sweet gifts.
So you know, an Edmonton local bought the piece for 350 from Foosh store. And I've been in contact with Foosh about replacing the piece with another of mine.

Mayor Presents Omar with 2nd Prize

2009-11-29T14:06:00.004-05:00

So one of our own made an impact yesterday At the Niagara Gallery Contest! Here is Omar shaking the hand of the Niagara Falls Mayor as he is presented with 2nd place. Congratulations Omar! His mysterious print "More Ticking Bricks" couldn't help but draw attention, and reinforces the importance of an element of mystery while competing. Omar tells me the meaning was relatively simple, and was somewhat of an aesthetic interpretation of motherhood, nurture, and family. Omar's modesty remains consistent, but I recognize a job well done. Good work man.

I think we all would best be on the lookout for similar opportunities. So keep an eye out for contests. tell other members, and create an awesome entry. Then we can all rock said contest together. Create on crew.

Buy Nothing Day !

2009-11-26T14:04:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is Buy Nothing Day. So Stay In, have some people over and create something instead of consuming. In fact, just consume less and create more. This way of life is completely unsustainable. Don't worry about your economy. Worry about social injustice and the environmental impact we as people make every day. Also, check out www.adbusters.org for loads of encouragement and inspiration. Cash doesn't rule everything around me.. Ya'll.

Niagara Art Contest

2009-11-26T02:47:00.004-05:00

Ok, So I know I haven't done any posting in like a month, but I promise nothing but excitement from now on. There is actually still lots going on, and I've had my hands full trying to design a little more content for the site. You'll notice the new artist tabs which I plan on making into links for online portfolios.

So, right now there's an art contest going on at the Niagara Art Gallery. Me and Omar entered a piece each and are still waiting on results. This was my entry, which I call: "The Spontaneous Solidification of a Drunken Thought." After the Contest I'll be shipping it to Foosh in Edmonton for display. It is mixed media on a 24x24 canvas. Lots of posts coming soon.

Beware of Dog

2009-10-25T22:17:00.002-04:00

Little Halloween themed piece from I; Jamez Townsend

Halloween Fun

2009-10-20T03:06:00.002-04:00

Halloween is a good time for art. Which is why we at Section 8 are trying to get into the seasonal spirit of spooky shit. I even covered our head office door in blood, just for kicks. Here are some thematic drawings done by the very talented Trish Moore.

So still some halloween plans to come, street art installations etc. Trish and I have made some halloween style promos. I'd love to see some from other members so feel free to indulge.
I'm also going to try and paint some creepy canvases.

Edmonton International Film Festival

2009-10-13T17:09:00.002-04:00

Jamez Townsend:
While I was in Edmonton I took interest in the 23rd EIFF. This Festival celebrates the very important and limitless diverse art of independent film. This festival doesn't have anything direct to do with Section 8, I was merely popping in to represent the group. I enjoyed some films, went to some after parties, and met some very interesting people. I introduced myself as an artist interested in film, and talked a lot about the New Brow art movement, and our cause here at Section 8. I will be organizing a trip to next years festival, soo let me know if your intrigued. Its a damned good time. Here are some pictures from a great after party.

left to right: Angel Cheng, Jamez Townsend, Kerrie Long (festival producer)
Marie France Guerrette, Guy Lavallee (feature film programmer)

I think there are also some pics of the closing Gala out there.. in other news, I think we should get very into the Halloween season. I for one will be designing a special edition new halloween header for the site. And i think some other members should join me in drawing/painting seshes of new brow gouls and other morbid imagery. Then we can post the results. So yeah, come over. I'll be starting today.

More cool shit from double A

2009-09-24T15:44:00.003-04:00

Here's a little something Andrew painted awhile back, should be exhibited at our upcoming show. Done in oil paints, this blue and purple creation has a new brow style that we are all about.
Keep it up Andrew.

2009-09-16T22:52:00.002-04:00

Some inspirational imagery from aspiring artist and rising revolutionary Omar Efe, aka. MHM
Omars style is very raw and unique, capturing the beauty and aesthetic of every day life. He specializes in styalized portraits, that are often based off of oblivious people he photographs on the street. Here are a few of his latest and greatest, enjoy.

everyone like my slick ms paint editing? photoshop coming soon, promise.

And in other news, my series is finally done! public rejoice, pics comin soon.

update on writers block

2009-09-10T09:50:00.002-04:00

So heres a few more detailed pics of the finished walls of writers block 'o9
sick styles, big names. enjoy. sorry for being so late on following it up. priorities.

dekay is way to sick

very fresh, i'd like to write at next years. gotta do some training.

BLING BLING BITCH!

2009-09-08T12:31:00.006-04:00

I'm really not meaning to saturate the blog with just my stuff, but merely waiting for some other crew members to send me some pics of Thhheir shit as well. you know who you are.
anyway.. here is the first product of a campaign i like to call "Bling Bling Ballistics" Its a new series of images i plan on selling that simply exhibit the nature of violence and materialism. All are 15$ each, and are standard 9 x 12. Upcoming variations will include different colours and guns. The more i sell, the more i'll do. email jamez_t@hotmail.com if you are interested. i'll even feature the colours and weapon of your choice.

and if you are interested, here is the piece that inspired this campaign which will be going up on display at edmontons Hydeaway. a local bar, and contemporary arts chill fest.

stay tuned for a new video i've been working on, and the atticipated 'Meet the Rebels' series. which is about.. 80 percent completo. and some photos of Andrew Arkell's skull series. and whatever the other artists are up to, if i'll ever know.

Promo

2009-09-04T08:22:00.003-04:00

a little promo done by myself; jamez townsend.
just thought i'd do my best to keep the hype up.
a little 'craola' inspired. possible tees in the future.
do enjoy, it kept me up till six this morning.

and any other section 8 members, please take the liberty of making some of
your own promotions! :D

Writer's Block o9'

2009-09-01T03:48:00.004-04:00

So we ended off august with a visit to a local graff event
here in Edmonton Alberta called Writers Block. It was basically
a feature of the local talent throwin down on 'the graff shop' wall.
We saw some big names, met some cool people and enjoyed some
freestyle beats.

Here are a few pics of the sick styles we had the pleasure of witnessing.
more coming soon.

photo cred: Nicole Coursen

Jeremy Fish Timelapse

2009-08-31T02:23:00.003-04:00

sweet installation timelapse by jeremy fish (no relation to section 8)
but very enjoyable all the same. check it out.

2009-08-27T02:23:00.002-04:00

This just in! Screaming eye-skream monsters are taking over the streets of Edmonton!

stay tune for more news on this symptomz pandemic, and feel free to become a part of it yourself by printing off your own members of the army using the link below. wheat paste em up in a city near you!

2009-08-22T02:07:00.003-04:00

New 'Meet the Rebels' series from Jamez Townsend coming soon.

to be displayed at Foosh store, check it out - www.foosh.ca

2009-08-17T01:21:00.004-04:00

This is the trailer for a documentary on underground art. It is very sweet.
A little introduction to the New Brow Art movement, enjoy.

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2009-08-15T23:08:00.006-04:00

New Canvases from BKOME

Some of which will be in our upcoming premiere show at NAC.
All are for sale, so if you are interested please contact me at jamez_t@hotmail.com

2009-08-15T00:50:00.006-04:00

Welcome to Section 8 : Contemporary Artists of Niagara

The reason i have organized this group is for the sake of promoting the art movement of New Brow, which is now popular in places like L.A. and San Francisco. This style of art is popular in magazines such as Juxtapoz and High Fructose. The official members of section 8 are Andrew Arkell, Adrian Pajtasz, Byron Morrisey Black, Jacob Primeau, Omar Efe, Soap, Tricia Moore, and myself; Jamez Townsend. I believe our styles are reflective of New Brow and would like for us to represent St. Catharines, Canada and young artists everywhere.
To get things of the ground, i would like to set up a show. This show will contain the best of our New Brow works, mostly paintings. I'm going to try, along with Omar to set this show up at NAC downtown. We therefore all need to create some dope shit to present to them when i return to the homeland. Some of you wonderful minds already have some pieces i have seen that would be perfect for the gallery. But we have to get down and produce some new quality works. Only the very best of our stuff is going to be presented to NAC and shown in the show. So, do some research on new brow (ive got lots of inspiring links), get some canvases and colours and get creative.
In the future, we will accept many more artists, not just from St. Catharines. We will do some silk screening, sell prints, shirts, paintings and make some money for trips to other galleries, events and whatever. We will keep branching out, improving our style , and getting exposure. So please share any new ideas with me, reccomend some members and create some promotions. We'll go far.