Shop Local. Shop Independent.

Last week I wrote quite a bit about display as art. See previous posts, here and here. Today I'd like to share with you a local store that really rocks display. The Clothing Brigade. Upon entering the store, I was greeted warmly and treated patiently as I gushed about the the explosion of art and display and the interplay between the two. The staff are are sweeties! How wonderful it must be to work with creative people!

The first thing I noticed upon entering was this gorgeous display by men's clothing designer, Dana Hardy.

I've been wanting to spray paint branches. Dana explained that the secret to the high gloss is enamel spray paint for appliances. Cool. I adore this, and can imagine how fun it would be to change the objects in the branches.

Next I noticed this fab light fixture. I want it for my dining room! Dana told me that her boyfriend made it. Awesome.

Creative display was everywhere. Vintage military suitcases and branches held shirts and hats.

Continuing the military theme is this amazing stencil work done by artist Brandon Vondrek.

Here's more of Brandon's work:

Creation is a necessity. Damn straight.

Coffee table with detail. Who doesn't want a brawny man on their table?

Brandon's work is obviously influenced by street art, but it's so much more than just that. His art is deep, thoughtful and tempered by local inspiration. He turns the inconographic image of the blue collar worker into art, much like the hip Communist propaganda currently being reinterpreted by Chinese artists. In addition, it is fascinating to note that Brandon uses metal as his medium. In a nod to his home town, Brandon has honored the tradition of the blue collar worker in what used to be a booming steel town.

This amazing screen print of Huey Newton of the Black Panther Party is by Sheppard Fairy of Obey Clothing. Images of revolutionaries are a staple in popular culture. In an earlier post, I wrote about a young man who was wearing a Che Guevera t-shirt. He explained to me that revolutionaries are motivated by great love for their people.

Okay, I probably need to add some yin to all this yang. They have cute girl stuff too. This cute little face was on a t-shirt, but I'd like to have her on a poster. As if the place isn't hip enough, here is some manga influence.

If you like pop culture, the Clothing Brigade has all the bases covered.