Punk Rock and Paint Brushes, an awesome experience.

Group shot of the artists on-hand for the Punk Rock and Paint Brushes book signing on May 1, 2021 at Amplified Ales in downtown San Diego, CA.

San Diego, CA - It’s not often I get to work a gig involving Punk Rock and Skateboard legends, amazing art, dynamite atmosphere, delicious beverages, and live music. On Saturday, May 1, 2021 it was an absolute privilege to be hired to as photographer for the Punk Rock and Paint Brushes book signing and art exhibit at Amplified Ales in East Village. When I arrived at 3p, I was greeted by Emily Nielsen (PRPB co-founder, artist, organizer for event) as she was finalizing the to-dos. Once she filled me in on the goings-on for the evening, I began to roam around capturing shots of attendees experiencing the art hanging on the walls, the artists posing in front of their work and signing things for fans, and the staff having a blast. It was great seeing people coming together to share such a special evening. Present for the PRPB book signing was Steve Caballero, Christian Hosoi, Paul Korbriger, Mark DeSalvo, Matt Hensley, Soma Snakeoil, Warren Fitzgerald, Stacie Stevenson, and Brian Bent. Also in appearance signing his own collection of books was Brandon Novak. As I took photos of the artists greeting their fans and signing their swag, I just couldn’t help thinking how amazing of an opportunity this was. I grew up watching and listening to these guys play music and skate. Now I was here with them freezing memories one picture at a time. It was surreal in a sense, but I also had the overwhelming feeling of professionalism in my work. I mean, These are household names and I didn’t want to disappoint. So I did my thing, and when the signing was over we wrangled the artists together for a fantastic group shot to put the stamp on the day as a whole. Once we were done with the group stuff, Brian Bent walked over to his guitar with his drummer (I didn’t catch her name unfortunately) and they began to wail! I grabbed a bunch of shots of the duo having an absolute blast performing for their peers and fans alike. It was a great way to wrap the evening up for the event and send everyone off with such cool memories and stories. The entire experience was incredible and will never be forgotten. PRPB events happen several times a year around the southern CA region, as well as around the country. Emily and I have known each other for quite some time now, and it is always a pleasure working with her and her team. Please check out www.punkrockart.com for more info on them and to support.