Artstrada Magazine Issue#1 by Artstrada Magazine

端_nique

.. ARTSTRADA M

On The Cover: Atomic Tattoo was founded in 1992 by Larry Edwards. 5533 Burnet Road, Austin, TX 78756 4 locations in Austin www.atomic-tattoo.com Model, Jacki OH©, (www.modelmayhem/jackioh) is wearing Sacred Heart Rubber (www.sacredheartrubber.com) and is sitting on a 2006 Buell/Sportster X1 Lightning Full Custom Street Fighter in Porsche Guards Red. “This bike was built by GS Motor Co. in Galesburg, MI (www.gsmotorcompany.com) and has been shown at Sturgis and Daytona. Truly one of a kind, it was also a featured bike in Barnette's magazine and enjoyed a spot on American Thunder TV, with Michelle Smith.” - Justin Timming (general manager) Specifications: 2000 Buell x1 Lightning Donor, Front end Disc brakes, 1200 Motor and 5spd Transmission, Performance Machine Wheels, and Thunderstorm Heads GS Motor Company: Frame, Swingarm, Fuel Tank (Stretched Sporty), Oil tank and Cover, Rear Fender Modifications: QA1 Coilover Suspension, Metzler Sporttech, M3 Sport Bike Tires, Pingel Dual Fuel valves, S&S E Carb, S&S Velocity Stack, Lazer Star Dual 55W Headlights W/ Hi-Lo Beam Switch, Renthal: Handelbar, Rear Sprocket, Grips

Cover Photograph by X!@n Studios Christian Tait was born in Australia, but has called Austin, Texas home since he was a teenager. He was an air traffic controller for the Army and a network engineer, before he returned to school and graduated from Texas State University in San Marcos with a degree in Communication Design. Christian has worked for several companies as both a graphic designer and a photographer while continuing to freelance in various forms of media including magazines, websites and advertising. (www.xianstudios.net)

04 JEN RUBBER

From recycled inner-tube rubber to sustainable cotton, the artistic evolution of Jennifer McCarty has no end in sight.

ROT RALLY ‘08 Not just for bikers anymore.

18 Gary Spellman E X C L U S I V E I N T E RV I E W:

This eco-outlaw is doing some incredible things for the environment and your image - all in one warehouse.

26 MAP WINE

TRAIL

Each issue features 10 selected vineyards: How to get there and what to enjoy on the ride.

.. ARTSTRADA M

PUBLISHER

Patrick B. Labay CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jaclyn Havlak ART & PR ASSISTANT

Treva McCroskey

THANK YOU to all of our amazing contributors. We could not have done this without each of you. PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christian Tait : xianstudios.net Tanner Moehle : tannermoehle.com Seabrook Jones : juicythis.com Meghan Dwyer : myspace.com/mlcphotos Tim Pipe : timpipe@hotmail.com Carrie Atkins : eurekacarrie@gmail.com WRITERS

STEPHEN MACMILLON MOSER SEABROOK JONES JOHN BLAIN All of the artists themselves. OTHER CONTRIBUTORS & THANKS FROM ARTSTRADA

Dart : dartgraphics.com Innovative Print Management : ipm-printing.com

Motorcycles, Austin and the Texas hill country wine region. What do these elements have in common? Artsträda magazine. A wide diversity of genetically unique grape species have grown naturally along rivers and streams in Texas for thousands of years. The first Europeans in Texas planted Vitis vinifera grapes from the old world in settlements at Bellville, New Braunfels and Fredericksburg. Now this region boasts restaurants, Bed and Breakfasts, travel inns, national parks, wildlife conservatories and gift shops mixed with Rockwell-inspired small towns, the highland lakes and numerous vineyards. Artsträda magazine combines these elements with map routes through the hill country wine region, provides reviews for venues and restaurants and is a guide to never-seen-before sights for just about every Austin-lover out there. Every issue of Artsträda will roll full throttle through sections of Art, Moto, Bites, Nites and Unique. Artsträda magazine is an artistic poker-run of adventure. A rally of good times, good people, good art, good music and good food and wine. Even good directions! Artsträda magazine is created for people who love the indomitable spirit of Austin, the artistic and engineering spirit of well-balanced machines and the subtle and delicate spirits of area wineries. People like you. People like me. Let's ride! - Patrick B. Labay, Publisher

FROM DUSK ‘TIL DAWN. Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in the world - and Austin’s Bat Conservatory tells us all about it.

Their “actual” capacity may be only nine, but the huge front yard has room for plenty.

THE TINIEST

BAR IN TEXAS

This Dart is always on target. Between tattooing, illustration, custom motorcycle pinstriping, and a stunning fiancé - does this badass mofo ever sleep?

40 47

EVENTS CALENDAR DIRECTORY LISTINGS

RUBBER JEN WITH STEPHEN

MACMILLON MOSER

photographed by Seabrook Jones

started with a giant pile of discarded inner tubes in Abilene, and suddenly artist Jennifer McCarty, who traditionally has worked with found objects, was designing rubber clothing. She didn't exactly have a burning desire to dive into the gaping maw of fetishism, nor was she itching to be a clothing designer, but she did have the perception to know that all is not what it seems. Is an inner-tube really just an inner-tube? Is rubber clothing only for fetishists? McCarty and her company Sacred Heart Rubber (www.sacredheartrubber.com) began to produce rubber clothing before she researched the fetish aspect of it - None of it was like hers. McCarty’s designs were beginning to be more than just art from found objects. They had become smart, clubby, fun designs that were indeed sexy, but embraced the same ebullient quality of the designer.

One design included the side-snap "Sergeant Skirt" - chic, sexy and exuding authority. With a silk blouse or a rubber corset? The Sergeant Skirt can be a club-wear staple, uptown or downtown. The whimsical "Bat Bra," ornamented with fluorescent green bats is a perfect match with the "Bat Garter Belt" - and perfect for bat watching on the Congress Bridge. But pairing the "Jetson Skirt" with the limited edition "Velvet/Rubber Jesus Shrine Top" (a masterpiece of art to wear) takes Jennifer’s designs from whimsical to sublime. McCarty has dressed Dita Von Teese, among other luminaries, and has sold her work to stores across the country, as well as to local stores like Blackmail, Gomi, Forbidden Fruit, and Parts and Labour. But that's over with – for now.

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With belts, ties, suspenders, hats, bags and aprons, Jennifer McCarty now rules over her rubber empire from the internet. It is there that she enjoys the custom ordered pieces that challenge her imagination and can make the client's wildest dream come true - sartorially speaking, of course. Even her rubber upholstered benches and chairs are as stylish as anything seen in a couturier's salon. As art evolves, so does the sensibility of the artist, and this artist is ready to evolve some more.

After the interview, Artstrada heard a little rumor that Sacred Heart Rubber might be going into mass production. Is McCarthy keeping this a secret? Or maybe – the artist is never really sure of her next evolution. See more online: www.sacredheartrubber.com 6

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Next on her agenda? Sustainable organic cotton pajamas. Quite a switch from rubberwear, McCarty says that she doesn't wear her rubber garments, but she will love to wear the pajamas and she will undoubtedly imbue them with the same charm she's already unleashed upon us. Says McCarty of her transition, "I'm actually really torn about letting the rubber go - or just downsizing what I do and keeping it."

When You’re

Strange. J

gets upclose & personal with local artist,

DAVE LOWELL photographed by Meghan Dwyer JH: The man behind the can. I always remember your work on show at that little bar on Bowie street. Your grandfatherʼs face in the glass window...my personal fav. Were you always “artistic”?

DL: I grew up in Austin. I wasn’t doing any serious visual art until I was in college, but I was attracted to design at an early age. I had a serious sticker fetish as a little kid, stuff like garbage pail kids; it was skate magazines and rave flyers after that. JH: Who would you credit as being the most supportive of your art from the beginning?

DL: I would say my mom and dad definitely gave me an appreciation for art outside the gallery setting. Around the same time I started seeing Banksy pieces on the web, I got a book of stencil graf from my dad and that set it off for me. They are always really supportive. JH: Thatʼs great, especially since sometimes living the “artists” life can be a tough sell for parents. You were influenced by Banksy – who else would you consider your influences?

DL: Sunny (my love), Primus, and Mitch Hedberg. JH: When did you decide you wanted to pursue art as a career?

DL: Early in high school I knew I wanted to do art direction. I started painting for fun while at Texas State University, started getting into shows and it’s gone from there. I still do design work and plan to focus more on that,but stencils have been a sweet, sweet love affair. [ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : ART

When You’re Dave. JH: Stencils are really organic, usually not very formal. We actually both studied at Texas State in the Communication Design department. How did our “formal” art training influence you? DL: I didn’t take any formal classes until college so I learned quite a bit during that time. It’s important to go somewhere with a good art program and plenty of river spots.

JH: Agreed. I loved Texas State for the same reasons. Since school, what has been the most challenging part of your work? The easiest? DL: I would say the entire creation process is easy because I enjoy it and can control it. Beyond that, on the business side of things it gets a bit tougher. Dealing with selling, pricing, promotion, stuff that’s not quite as natural as slinging color around.

JH: How did you start working with the media you are known for? Why? DL: I was heavily influenced by punk and hip-hop culture as a kid, so I’ve always dug graffiti. Stenciling appealed to me in a much different way. It seemed more communicative and more about making a connection with the audience. It seemed like something I had to do.

JH: Instinctual…nice. Do you do commission work or is your work just for that instinctual expression? DL: I like to do commissions, they’re a different sort of challenge so it keeps things interesting.

JH: Any advice for other artists? DL: Yes. Do it for the love, and location, location, location!

Dave has online galleries on Dripbook and Virb, and work available for purchase at Artwhino.com. dave_Lowell_Lozano@yahoo.com / myspace.com/davelowell 8

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Cosmetics

SEXY • VERSATILE • BEAUTIFUL

ultimatefacecosmetics.com

Ultimate Face

The Southern Sirens

WRITTEN BY

JOHN BLAIN On

July 12th, the air in Austin will rumble and the ground will quake as thousands of men and women descend upon the city mounted atop their iron horses. Bikes of every brand, shape, color, and size will dominate the roads, and for four 14

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days the city will become the domain of two-wheeled mercenaries from all around the world. The parade of chrome, leather, ink, beautiful machines, and even more beautiful women is sure to astound, and for a short time, this sub-culture will make Austin’s already wild scene even wilder. When I came to live in the Austin area in 1998, I had no idea the Republic Of Texas Rally existed. The "ROT Rally", as it’s called, had only been in existence for three years, being the brainchild of Jim Henry and Jerry Bragg in 1995. The ROT Rally only had about five thousand participants in its first year, but that still made it the largest motorcycle rally in Texas at the time. The ROT Rally has since grown into a mammoth attraction. In 2007, it boasted 40,000 registered participants, with many more attendees not registered. I had a chance to speak with Denise Garcia, the Rally’s Director of Media Relations, who disclosed that they are expecting 45,000 registered ROT Rally

participants this year, and more than 250,000 participants in total.

This would make the event about half the size of the now legendary Sturgis Rally that started in August of 1938 and is currently the world’s largest motorcycle rally. The ROT Rally is now Austin’s largest privately held event, yielding $38 million for Austin and the surrounding communities in 2007, almost twice the economic impact of the $20 million reported in 2003. According to Ms. Garcia, the ROT Rally itself is continuously expanding and gets an estimated 15-20% larger every year. Why has the ROT Rally become such an attraction? Owners, Jerry and Colleen Bragg always say “You just have to come see for yourself”. But a quick look at the Austin scene suggests some answers. Downtown Austin, 6th Street in particular, is highly entertaining and very motorcycle-friendly. As ROT Rally co-founder Jim Henry noted in 2003, “Who doesn’t love 6th Street?” It’s hard to disagree with that sentiment, considering 6th Street’s longtouted status as being the crown jewel of the “Live Music Capital of the World” (as Austin is often referrred to), supplying a bar or club for just about every interest imaginable. The ROT Rally adds to this scene by showcasing over 70 bands on six stages,

with notable names like The Charlie Daniel’s Band and Molly Hatchett. The intersection at 6th Street and Congress Avenue will be transformed into an amphitheater that Friday, with the bulk of the bands playing the Expo Center for the rest of the weekend.

Just outside of Austin is another great reason for the ROT Rally’s success. The Texas Hill Country has long been noted as one of the greatest places to ride in the state, and some would argue it’s one of the greatest places to ride in the entire country. Ranch Road 32 (just west of San Marcos) is particularly scenic, running along the crest of a ridge known to locals as the “Devil’s Backbone”. Further down the road you’ll find historic Luckenbach, former home to Willie Nelson’s world famous 4th of July Picnic and the Harvest Classic Motorcycle Rally, being held there this October. [ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : MOTO

Heading north from Luckenbach will lead you to one of my favorite spots, Enchanted Rock. This massive dome of pink granite covers 640 acres and rises 425 feet out of the ground. To many, the natural beauty of the area surrounding Austin is truly unmatched. Ms. Garcia also informed me that the ROT Rally tries to appeal to more than just “bikers”. This year, the rally attractions also include 10 mixed martial arts bouts from the Xtreme Fighting Championship, as well as a custom hot rod show featuring well-known machines from every corner of the nation. You also don’t have to be an avid rider to appreciate the showcase of custom bikes from some of the world’s premier custom builders, including Joe Martin from Martin Bros. Bikes

and the psychedelic creations of Rick Fairless from Strokers Dallas. Celebrity guests like Ami James of Miami Ink guarantee that the celebrity bike builders’ lineup is sure to please the crowds as much as the machines they are famous for building. The Republic of Texas Motorcycle Rally rose from humble beginnings to embed itself into Austin culture, and is an event I know I look forward to each year. The only real complaint I ever hear is that of the burning neck-strain endured from taking in all of the beautiful machines and lovely ladies flashing by at lightning speed. Personally, I don’t mind the pain. As far as I’m concerned, the ROT Rally is the reason neck braces were invented.

I N T E RV I E W E D & P H O T O G R A P H E D B Y

SEABROOK JONES

comes to Austin.

Gary Spellman and his team in the warehouse that includes houses all that allofof Garyʼs offices.

It’s here.

An interview with

GA RY S P E L L M A N hat happens when you have a cosmetics company, an ecology minded agricultural products company and a motorcycle building and customization company all under the same roof? Most people might have no clue what to do – but most people aren’t Gary Spellman. Having a great idea is the hallmark of genius but working that idea into a plan and cultivating it into a breakthrough is the real trick. In this case the trick is using green sustainable energy that was born of a novel 18

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method of burning ethanol and then asking a provocative question: “Can we put that on a motorcycle?” That’s one of the questions Gary Spellman asked his partners at American Green Holdings and the answer was a resounding, yes. Gary got together with Austin bike builders, Shane Lucas and Rob Verdugo, and the future is looking green:

I N T E RV I E W E D & P H O T O G R A P H E D B Y SJ: Tell me about the Merle Haggard Eco Outlaw bike for starters. GS: This bike is an ’07 Victory Eight Ball and what we did with it was- we dealt with Merle Haggard and a company based out of Missouri – American Green Holdings – a company that I’m a part of. We’re in the agricultural Industry and what we used is a valve – it’s called the Ethanol Reformer valve. It was designed for irrigation purposes. The Ethanol Reformer valve slows the burn time down of ethanol fuel and we saw the efficiency in combustion improve dramatically. So I asked the question – “what’s the chance of you guys putting this on a motorcycle?” and they said, “they’re working on it”. Then lo and behold our great friend John Paul DeJoria, a long time biker and founder of The Patrón Spirits Company (www.patronspirits.com) asked, “can you make that thing run on tequila?” So we built him a tequila bike for Patrón based on the Victory Hammer. So you will notice that the map all over the bike is Merle’s first concert tour ever. We call it, “The Legend” and it is autographed by Merle. He want’s us to sell it

SEABROOK JONES

for charity and get the word out. One lucky buyer gets the Merle Haggard Eco Outlaw and a meet & greet with Merle when he comes here for his concert on June 18th at The Paramount. The other thing we wanted was Customization – that’s why we went with Shane and Rob from Sacred Machine because this was originally a stock Victory. SJ: “Is there any crosspollination between the make-up and the motorcycles, say a beauty and the beast sort of relationship?” GS: Everyone has their own identity and that’s the thing about customization but fashion is what makes you feel sexy on a motorcycle. It’s what you’ve done to your bike and it’s how you feel. Just take Ducati for example: an Italian motorcycle also known for their fashionable functional wear. Now Harley-Davidson: if you get a catalog there’s more clothing there than motorcycles. Fashion plays a big part in the motorcycle world. It’s like Versace said, ‘Fashion is you. If you feel great and you’re happy – that’s you.’ See more online: http://www.ecooutlaw.com [ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : MOTO

FLYRITE CHOPPERS of Austin I N T E RV I E W E D & P H O T O G R A P H E D B Y

SEABROOK JONES

MELISSA LANE wants to put something hot between your legs.

the owner of Austin’s independent Flyrite Choppers dealership she’s got the goods and the badass bikes to do just that. As someone who’s had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and was born just a few blocks from her present storefront, Melissa describes her good fortune in becoming the owner of the Austin dealership for the Austin built bikes as a simple matter of being in the right place at the right time. Like many others I’m sure, I wondered if there was any “diamond-plated” ceiling for women in her industry? By her account the motorcycle world is ripe and ready for more women. We started our photo session just as one of her customers returned from a 4000 plus mile tour of the Southwest on their new but now well broken-in Flyrite Chopper.

A testament to the passion these bikes instill in their owners.

SJ: “What turns you on about the Flyrite bikes?” ML: It’s an awesome product and Austin built. From a bike standpoint it’s one of the best bikes you can get for the money and it’s traditionally styled.

SJ: “How would you describe a typical Flyrite customer?” ML: Someone who’s into the nostalgia, the traditional styling, form and function that can actually be ridden. They’re all built to order so the customer gets to pick what they want on the bike. Part of the beauty of it is they’re pretty simple to work on yourself. We also sell the frames and rolling chassis so we sell a lot to the do it your self-ers. I can sell you one piece off that bike or the complete bike.

(cont. on next page)

MELISSA LANE IS FLY ALRIGHT. SJ: “Whoʼs this guy who just pulled up from riding around the Southwest? Can you tell us what thatʼs about?” ML: He’s from Europe and owns a few Harleys and other bikes and he decided he wanted a bar-hopper and emailed me. He placed the order and as the bike was being finished, he came on over and picked up his bike and took it for a ride around the western US. SJ: “What got you in the motorcycle business?” ML: I’ve done everything from working in a diesel repair shop to owning a tattoo shop, always been an auto mechanic. I drive a ‘56 Mercury Monterey. I’ve always enjoyed the hot rod scene and the biker community, drag racing – the whole nine yards, and I bought this place from Tiffany Janssen in 2006. SJ: “So the shop has always been owned by women?” ML: This shop has always been and so has the manufacturer of Flyrite Choppers, Whitney Kidd owns 51%: her and Jason they’re here in Austin as well. 22

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Seabrook: “What would you say to other women who are thinking about doing something like this?” ML: Do it – do not hesitate. You may second guess yourself, you may think there’s no other women doing it or wonder if the guys will take you seriously, and I have had some guys who call here and are hell bent on speaking to a man. There’s some discrimination – at bike events some guys expect me NOT to know the answer when they ask a question. What happens is they think that I’m the model in the booth and I do think it may intimidate some men but that’s the exception to the rule. For the women out there - go ahead let’s break some barriers, let’s do it. It’s 2008 and it’s getting better. If you have the drive or the ambition don’t let anybody stop you. Don’t over-think it! Just recently a lovely young woman bought a Reach for the Sky model. She saw one of our bikes at a show and saved her money and came up with her whole family. Now she’s part of our family. She was my first female customer so she named her bike The First Lady. She actually learned how to ride on her brand new Flyrite. Visit Flyrite Choppers of Austin at 3705 North IH35 Austin Texas, 78722 or check out their website at flyritechoppersofaustin.com.

RIDE

HILL COUNTRY RE(AR)VIEW W I T H B E N N E T T PAT R I C K

Austin, Texas is the central hub for motorcycling in the Texas hll country. The region northwest of Austin has some of the country’s best motorcycling routes and the roads of the hill country are fantastic for all types of riding. Many are straight or sweeping but a few offer challenging rides. A region brimming with visual and sensual treasures, each ride delivers a kaleidoscope of small towns and historic landmarks. 24

You can explore backyard antique shops or vineyards, tube the cool rivers, nest in one of the relaxing Bed & Breakfasts (BnBs), or camp at a hill country cavern or waterfall. There are more than 136 wineries in Texas, making it the fifth-largest wine producing state in the nation. A large tourist trade has made the Hill Country a popular wine region and many vineyards offer wine tastings every weekend. In this region lies Fredericks-

[ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : BITES

burg, a beautiful small town that has seen a renaissance of growth in motorcycle tourism, hosts of biergartens and wineries and boasts over 300 BnBs, 150 shops, galleries, boutiques and emporiums. Fredericksburg remains one of the primary reasons riders visit the hill country. Just 18 miles north of Fredericksburg along Ranch Road 965, is a nice motorcycle ride through scenic country to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

©iStockphoto.com/fstop123

Luckenbach is just 10 miles from Fredericksburg, and is famous for it’s dance hall, shopping and live country and bluegrass music. Notable acts such as Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Pat Green, Robert Earl Keen, and Lyle Lovett have been known to play the stages of Luckenbach. Not far from Luckenbach, lie several worthwhile destinations: Bandera, the cowboy capital of the world, is a quaint town full of western ambiance and authentic

dude ranches, and Boerne, rich with history and endless antiques and arts and crafts. Sisterdale and the Sister Creek Vineyards lie just north of Boerne and 40 minutes away is Canyon Lake, quiet and well known for its tranquil lake. Other vast lakes of the hill country include LBJ, Buchanan and Travis; each offering visitors a chance to water ski, fish, swim and boat. Further northwest is Leakey, and one of the hill country’s most challenging rides.

"The Three Sisters" or " The Hundred Mile Loop" (RR335, RR336, & RR337) are without a doubt the best motorcycle roads to be found in the Texas hill country. Ranch Road 337 was also voted #1 road to ride in Texas by Ride Texas Magazine© readers. Also, don’t forget to visit the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country 4 miles north of Vanderpool! [ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : BITES

WINE TRAIL MAP

183

377

281

190 SAN SABA

BRADY a Sab San

183

ado Color River

CHEROKEE

LAMPASAS

BEND

Rive

COPPERAS COVE

190

LAKE VICTOR

Lake Buchanon

TOW

190

KILLEEN

KEMPNER

183

FLORENCE

BLUFTON

LLANO MASON

183 29

OATMEAL

CASTELL

GRANITE SHOALS

KINGSLAND

GEORGETOWN

SUNRISE BEACH

TRAVIS PEAK

Lake LBJ MARBLE

FALLS

HARPER

290 Pedern a

INGRAM

les Riv er

ROUND MTN.

JOHNSON CITY

DRIPPING SPRINGS

LUCKENBACH

WIMBERLY

SISTERDALE

COMFORT 27

Guadalupe River

[ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1

AUSTIN

290

183

Blanc o Rive r

KERRVILLE

BEE CAVE

HENLY

STONEWALL

ROUND ROCK

281 CYPRESS MILL

LAGO JONESTOWN VISTA

Lake Travis

FREDERICKSBURG 6

SPICEWOOD WILLOW CITY

ANDICE

BERTRAM

Inks Lake

o LlanRiver

BURNET

BUCHANAN DAM

SPRING BRANCH

BULVERDE

Canyon Lake

NEW BRAUNFELS

CANYON CITY

SAN MARCOS

Sister Creek Vinyards

1142 Sisterdale Rd. Sisterdale, Tx 78006 (830) 324-6704

Fredericksburg Winery 247 West Main Street Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 990-8747

Spicewood Vinyards

1419 Burnet CR 409 Spicewood, TX 78669 (830) 693-5328

24350 Haynie Flat Rd. Spicewood, TX 78669 (512) 264-3630

Torre di Pietra Vineyards

10915 E. US Hwy 290 Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 644-2829

Grape Creek Vineyards 10587 East Highway 290 Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 644-2710

24912 Singleton Bend St. Marble Falls, TX 78654 (512) 267-6310

Dry Comal Creek Vineyards

Stone House Vinyards

Flat Creek Estate

1741 Herbelin Rd. New Braunfels, TX 78132 (830) 885-4121

8 9

Fall Creek Vineyards 1820 CR 222 Tow, TX 78672 (325) 379-5361

Chisholm Trail Winery 2367 Usener Rd. Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 990-CORK

DRINK MOTOR OIL

photo by Austin photographer, Carrie Atkins

[ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : BITES

Ingredients: 1 Pint GUINNESS® Draft Beer 2 shots Espresso 2 scoops chocolate ice cream

Mixing instructions: Pour all ingredients into a cold mug. Add whipped cream or cinnamon according to taste, enjoy!

[ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : BITES

FROM DUSK T

The Bat Conservatory of Austin gives us all the details ab ...living right under our beloved South

TIL DAWN.

bout the world’s largest urban bat colony... th Congress Avenue bridge.

efore the sun rises tomorrow morning, the bats streaming out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge will have eaten fifteen tons of flying insects! Tomorrow night, they’ll do it again. All summer long, Mexi¬can free-tailed bats are hard at work, making your world a better place to live. Large numbers of bats arrive in Austin in early March, migrating north from their winter roosts in Mexico. The Congress Avenue Bridge is what bat scientists call a maternity roost, because almost all of the bats that come to the bridge every spring are female, and they raise babies there. Each mother bat gives birth to a single baby bat, called a pup, in June. The babies can fly and hunt on their own in about six weeks. About half of the baby bats will live to adulthood. By mid-August, there are about 1.5 million bats living under the Congress Avenue Bridge, making it the largest urban bat colony in the world. (cont. on next page) [ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : NITES

FROM DUSK TIL DAWN.

A favorite food of our freetail friends is the corn earworm moth, one of the most destructive crop pests in the country. In fact, in terms of pesticide use, the corn earworm is second only to the boll weevil. Can you imagine how many pounds of pesticides would be needed if it weren’t for the bats eating fifteen tons of these insects every night? And don’t forget that the Congress Avenue Bridge is just one bat colony—the total summer population of freetails in Central Texas is probably over 100 million bats. All told, these freetails eat 1,000 tons of insects nightly, if not more! Like our freetail bats, corn earworm moths migrate north from Mexico. Scientists think bats spend their summers in Texas partly because of these pests. If you’re a bat, it turns out that Texas is a good place to catch a late-night snack of tasty, migrating moths.

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photographs by Meghan Dwyer In the last twenty years, scientists have found an alarming number of freetail roosts in Texas and Mexico that are nearly abandoned. Scientists are continuing to study freetail ecology and behavior, and Bat Conservation International (BCI) is working hard to find and protect their remaining roosts. Since our freetails migrate between Texas and Mexico, working on both sides of the border is essential. This past winter, BCI worked with local land owners, educators, and conservation scientists in northern Mexico to reopen and protect some of the largest roosts for migrating freetails. We couldn’t do it without the support of our BCI Members. For more information about Bat Conservation International, visit www.batcon.org.

the TINIEST BAR

IN TEXAS

was the brainchild of Jason Subt, the bar's founder. In Subt's past life he spent several years on the motorcycle racing circuit in the U.S. and Mexico. He had the privilege of racing at Daytona speedway during Bike Week, and raced against some of the legends of the motorcycle-racing world. While operating another business on the corner of W. 5th and Bowie across from Whole Foods Market and Worldwide Headquarters, Jason had an epiphany: to open a bar that would embody his "laid back, everyone is welcome" mentality. As a native Austinite, Subt recognized the need to maintain the type of atmosphere that makes Austin a great place to live. After enlisting the assistance of Austin Bar Owner and Restaurateur, Bob Woody, he was able to pursue his dream of establishing the bar. After three months of running the burgeoning business, Subt partnered with David Shilkret, who brought knowledge of the underground music and

pop culture scenes of Washington D.C. and San Francisco. Since the birth of the partnership Subt and Shilkret have built the bar into an Austin landmark. In true Austin style, the inside bar technically has a capacity of nine - including staff - but the beauty of the location is the wooden deck and huge front “yard”. There are 2 full bathrooms and another outside bar as well. It feels likeTheir 5th Street Live! festival held during the week of the SXSW music festival boasted one of the best free lineups in the city and the stage, which was finished only 90 minutes prior to the start of the first band, is often cited as one of the most attractive venues in town. The Tiniest bar in Texas is a perfect location for Bike Nights or the odd traveler with it’s ample curbside parking and it’s hospitable atmosphere every night of the week. Since the ROT Rally last year, a steady group of motorcycles can be found on the curb every Saturday night - stop by anytime. [ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : NITES

A benefit held for

EMANCIPET ••• photograph by Tanner Moehle

RELAX

EVENT L

2008 ROT Biker Rally • Austin, Texas USA June 12-15, 2008 (903) 451-1992

3rd Annual Ridin for Kids Rally • San Saba, Texas USA Jun 27-Jun 28 2008 (325) 388-0323 / ecasa4@tstar.net

WishRide 2008 • Austin and Boerne, Texas USA July 5, 2008 (210) 240-0565

Rumble On The River Mansfield Park • Bandera, Texas USA September 19 - 21, 2008

VFW Post 6974 "Hero Run" • Burnet, Texas USA Oct 04 2008 512-355-3808

Pig Roast 2008 • Johnson City, Texas USA Oct 10-Oct 12 2008 512-556-5579 / www.jcpigroast.org

Harvest Classic 2008 European & Vintage Motorcycle Rally • Luckenbach, Texas USA October 24 & 25, 2008 info@harvestclassic.org

WALKIN’ THE LINE AN INTERVIEW WITH LEGENDARY PINSTRIPER, ILLUSTRATOR, AND TATTOO ARTIST,

very now and then, you come in contact with one of 'those' guys; Someone whose life story reads like a movie of the week. Dart is one of those guys. He started life as a crippled kid, born in the projects and hustled and scraped his way to the top of the game. He couldn't afford college, yet became a success in a field dominated by college graduates. Dart is a licensed pilot, pinstriper, tattoo artist, graphic designer and illustrator. He's the president of the Kreatures Car Club in Austin and builds hot rods for a hobby. He's 44 years old and has a crazy-hot 25 year-old fiance who can be seen modeling for us on page 41. Hubba, hubba. photographed by Tanner Moehle

DART We just had to get the whole scoop.

ARTSTRADA MAGAZINE: Let's start at the beginning. Have you always been artistic? Dart: Yeah, I guess so. Since I was just a little brat growing up in Kansas City, I've been drawing. AM: Most artists that I've talked to credit their parents for helping them along in the early years. Was it the same with you? Dart: Definitely! My parents recognized that I had a knack for drawing and nurtured that with a vengeance. They were always broke, but somehow I always had art supplies. I really owe them a lot for that. (cont. on next page)

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WALKIN’ THE LINE with DART AM: So you weren't exactly 'privileged' as a kid. Did that influence your art in any way? Dart: Absolutely. All of the kids in my family had to work. I got my first job at age 11. I think that having a job gave me a different work ethic than most of the other kids I knew. It showed me that nothing comes easy and no one's going to hand you anything. Dozens of times in my life I've been in the middle of a drawing frenzy and notice blood on the paper. No joke! I would literally draw until my fingers bled!. AM: When did you become a professional artist? Dart: In grade school, I’d draw for lunch money, so I guess I was always ‘professional’. I sold my first real piece to a stranger when I was 17. It was a portrait of Mark Twain. It took about 10 hours to do the piece and I charged the lady ten bucks. AM: And you've been a professional artist since then? Dart: Not exactly. At 18, I joined the Marine Corps. I continued to do freelance stuff on the side. After my active duty tour, I worked odd jobs including driving a tow truck, concrete flat work, 42

[ art•strah•dah] : Issue 1 : UNIQUE

bricklayer’s helper, as a hired thug, wine salesman; I even applied to be a cop. All the while, I did art jobs on the side for gas and cigarette money. AM: Do you have formal art training? Dart: None. I took the hard road; busting my hump in the trenches. AM: How did you get into professional art with no degree? Dart: I smooth talked my way into a small ad agency. I told them I'd sweep floors, make coffee or draw for free if they'd just show me the ropes and give me a break. They agreed to help me out. I worked there during the day and did odd jobs at night to make a living. Before long, I had a portfolio, a working knowledge of professional art and a resume. Voila! Instant credibility. AM: You've done work for Disney and Warner Brothers. How did that come about? Dart: It started at a huge T-shirt company. I drew all their licensed characters for Disney and the rest. That led to free-lance work from a bunch of the biggies.

AM: How did you get into tattooing? Dart: A tattoo shop opened around the corner from a bar where I worked as a bouncer. Always trying to drum up some cash, I took my portfolio into that tattoo shop. The guy liked my art and offered me an apprenticeship. AM: How long have you been tattooing? Dart: 18 years now. I started my apprenticeship in February of 1990. AM: What brought you to Austin? Dart: I first visited Austin about 7 years ago for a car show. I fell in love with the town. I had no idea at the time that it was 'trendy' to move here. I just loved this city, so two years ago I sold my tattoo shop in Kansas to my business partners, sold my hot rod and used the cash to move here and put a down payment on a house. I took a big cut in pay, but it was worth it.

was in all of the car mags and Von Dutch striping was still seen at the shows. I always wanted to be able to do that. It wasn't until a few years ago that I got serious about it. AM: Who are your artistic influences? Dart: That's a long list. Let's see; My late dad, Ed Roth, Blaine Scott, Robert Williams, George Trosley, Keith Weesner, Fred Boatman, The Pizz, Von Franco.... I could go on. AM: One last thing: Any advice for young artists? Dart: Yes. Go to college and study something other than art. You'll live a happier life. They don't call us 'Starving Artists' for nothing. Speaking of that, I'd better get back to work.

AM: What about pin striping? How did you get into that?

Dart can be found tattooing at Golden Apple Tattoos at 513 East 6th Street in Downtown Austin. Phone: 512-476-4596.

Dart: I've always been a gear head. I grew up in an era when Big Daddy Roth

Check out his website at www.dartgraphics.com

photographed by Tanner Moehle

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TIM PIPE & THE YELLOW ARTMARINE (as told by the man himself) You’ve seen him - probably had your picture taken by him - and kept the polaroid on your mirror for years. The neighbors do not seem to mind the occasional roar and appearance of a giant Twinkie in their neighborhood; some actually rather enjoy it. After all, it is in the name of Art. The vintage looking bus is piloted by a vintage looking bus driver often attired in blue Dickies, a bow tie and Chauffeurs hat. It comes as no surprise that the same character prowls the late-night streets and clubs of Downtown Austin, sporting a fedora and armed with a vintage Polaroid camera. He'll steal your soul and sell it right back to you for $5. "The price of a drink but it lasts a lot longer" Tim quips, often sounding like a James Cagney movie. For a decade, Tim Pipe has been a fixture of the Austin nightlife, primarily working bars like the Casino el Camino, Jackalope, and the Red River district. The tattooed, pierced, mohawk wearing, punk rock and Tom Waits listening weirdoes are his favorite customers, fans, and friends. This is the most polite, generous and fun crowd, he says. Weirdoes indeed. A fine art painter with a BA from Mesa State College, a small school on the west slope of Colorado, Tim also painted scenery for theatre, film, theme parties and conventions for ten years. Papier-mâché was the medium he apprenticed for during one winter in New Orleans. It was in these ten years that he studied photography by

reading books and magazines on the subject. Having had his fill of scenic work, a new brand of employment was necessary. In 1998 Swing was king and the Tech Money Tree was in full bloom (though winter was on the way, as we all know). A new adventure was calling: Hot rod an old Polaroid and take pictures of folks having a great time downtown. Better known as, “creating inebriational silver-based memories.” "I just needed to pay the rent, I never thought I would become a minor league icon," Tim recants. Then along came “the child.” The 35 foot long, 11 1/2 foot high ten ton yellow baby. "It's a mobile art gallery," Tim says, "It's as nice a gallery as you'll see, it just happens to be on wheels. Trimmed in oak and naugahide with Persian rugs under ones feet, he is not kidding. This is where he shows his art photography. Exhibitions are also catered to younger audiences for trips to local schools; a sort of field trip that comes to you. With continued help and support from the Austin Visual Arts Association (Kelly Montgomery, director, is one of his personal heroes) and continued funding through the City of Austin's cultural arts division (cultural contract; a sort of grant), the bus is probably headed for your neighborhood. Next? "More Art." By the way, he used to ride a 1974 Harley Sportster.

LOCATE D

Angela Nations Sparks

Golden Apple Studios

Austin City Living Realtor (512) 762-0923 angela@austincityliving.com

513 E. 6th St. Austin, Tx 78701 (512) 476-4596 www.goldenapplestudios.com

Atomic Cherry 5535 Burnet Road Austin, Tx 78756 (512) 258-2226 www.atomiccherryboutique.com

The Lola Dolls, Professional Go Go Dancers For Booking Contact Christina G. TheLolaDolls@gmail.com myspace.com/heartstompers

Atomic Tattoo

Tiniest Bar in Texas

5533 Burnet Road Austin, Tx 78756 (512) 458-9693 www.atomic-tattoo.com

817 W. 5th St. Austin, Tx 78703 (512) 391-6222 www.tiniestbarintexas.com

FlyRite Choppers of Austin

Sacred Heart Rubber Clothing Co.

3705 N. 1-H 35 Austin, Tx 78722 (512) 258-6737 www.flyritechoppersofaustin.com

www.sacredheartrubber.com

Ultimate Face Cosmetics Inc. 6004 Techni Center Dr. #204 Austin, Tx 78721 (512) 469-9580