Above, Frida portrayed as Dia de los Muertos image — fine art by El Moises.

Yesterday a viral petition to get Disney to withdraw the trademark on Dia de los Muertos was making its way around the net.  According to the PEW, rates of technology use among native-born Hispanics [Mexican-Americans] are relatively high. I signed the petition along with several other Mexican-American leaders who believe our culture should not be owned by a corporation.

We own our own culture.

More importantly, hundreds of Mexican-American artists draw, paint or sing about Dia de los Muertos.  It would have been a shame for a corporation to make their way in monopolizing what is ours.

We are very glad to hear Disney withdrew.  I predicted a Mexican-American backlash if

Ranking by Population — Pew

they did not withdraw — and we already know that Mexican-Americans make up the bulk of the Latin population pie with almost 70%.  We also contribute billions and billions to our national economy.

From the LA TIMES:

Disney withdraws trademark filing for ‘Dia de los Muertos’

By Adolfo FloresMay 8, 2013, 8:32 a.m.

If the dead could speak, they probably wouldn’t have been heard over the burst of virtual shouting and howling Walt Disney Co. drew for attempting to trademark “Dia de los Muertos” — a bid it has since dropped.

The company filed 10 applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for “Dia de los Muertos,” including applications pertaining to toys, cereals and jewelry. The May 1 filings came in anticipation of an untitled movie about the Mexican holiday, known in English as Day of the Dead.

FULL STORY>>>

Photo by NaiChe Sol Chavira El Moises live art demonstration at Grand Avenue Get Down (2013 Cinco de Mayo celebration of art and culture).

the Phoenix area and hundreds of parties throughout the state – it is hard to argue with that fact particularly when Arizona’s  very own Chicano Picasso via El Moises sparked a new Latin Renaissance movement which enhances, encourages, and embraces Mexican-American culture via art, lowriders, hot rods, custom motorcycles and live art demonstration.

The unique thing about the Grand Avenue Get Down / Cinco de Mayo celebration was that this event included artists from our neighboring states like California and New Mexico.  The California artists included:  D.A. Garcia, El Chikle, Jowee Mr. Rhythm Ramirez, Lucky Hellcat, Johnathan Mercado and  Ricardo Islas.   New Mexican artists included: Nani Chacon and Toby Morfin.  Last but certainly not least, Arizona artists included: Sam Gomez, Jason Rudolph Pena, El Moises, John Garza, Angelica Johnson, El Podrido, Moe Madrid, El Whyner, Pablo Luna, Albert Rodriguez, Buggs, Leland Chapin, Mike Royal Sage Rock, Ron Hernandez, Luis Miranda, 9 Gallery artists and more.

Next year’s Cinco de Mayo event will be bigger.   Bigger plans are already being made with a concert, car and motorcycle show.  John Coll’s Brewery should be in full swing by then, too, and this is all very exciting.

Lowrider and hot rod cruising is a lot of fun.  If you have never been on a lowrider cruise before, you are in luck as I take a quick video from a Cadillac convertible point of view while interviewing one of the pinstripers who pinstriped at the Grand Avenue Get Down event.

Several pinstriper artists dominated the event while showcasing their work in addition to the many many other acrylic and mixed media artists who adorned our City with their beautiful paintings and artwork.

Slide 1 of 32.
O.G Ron Hernandez pinstriping and doing his thing LIVE!
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 2 of 32.
Bugs pinstriping at Grand Ave Get Down
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 3 of 32.
Aaron Voight gas tin artwork on display.
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 4 of 32.
Grand Avenue Get Down Attendees
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 5 of 32.
NaiChe Chvira repping a Grand Avenue t-shirt
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 6 of 32.
Pinstriping artist David Anthony Garcia of Whittier California beautifies Grand Ave with his talent
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 7 of 32.
Hot Rods on Display on Grand Avenue
Source: Photo Courtesy of Hotrodron CarlstenSlide 8 of 32.
California Artist Lucky Hellcat Sells This Piece for $400.00
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 9 of 32.
Patron of the Arts via DeeDee Garcia Blase appreciates art with strong women empowerment messages
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 10 of 32.
Master Lowrider builder Luis Miranda's beauty! Every part including the upholstery was hand crafted by Luis!
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 11 of 32.
Tony Perez demonstrating pinstriping
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 12 of 32.
Cruiser Photo at Grand Avenue Get Down
Source: Photo Courtesy of Christian Otjen Photography at the SagradoSlide 13 of 32.
California Artist Lucky Hellcat with husband and Viva Ramirez
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 14 of 32.
Picture of Albert's 1967 Impala. This car was originally painted by Mario Lopez fromthe Candy Factory in Los Angeles. He has since passed away.
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 15 of 32.
Old Cars beautifying Grand Avenue in Phoenix
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 16 of 32.
A beautiful 1950 Chevy Truck
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 17 of 32.
El Whyner of In the Streets Magazine that features cars and lowriders
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 18 of 32.
Ron Hernandez and El Whyner at Grand Avenue Get Down
Source: Photo courtesy of Mark SalcedoSlide 19 of 32.
Jmm Pinstriping.
Source: Photo courtesy of Sam GomezSlide 20 of 32.
Pinstriped cars on display at Grand Ave Get Down
Source: Photo courtesy of Sam GomezSlide 21 of 32.
Photographer Sam Gomez captures El Moises' Native American fine art
Source: Photo courtesy of Sam GomezSlide 22 of 32.
DA Morales Pinstriping
Source: Photo courtesy of Sam GomezSlide 23 of 32.
Grand Ave Get Down
Source: Photo courtesy of Gail Mokry Shoultes Slide 24 of 32.
Grand Ave Get Down Paintings by Mike Royal (first 2 paintings on the left)
Source: Photo courtesy of Gail Mokry Shoultes Slide 25 of 32.
Motorcycles at Grand Ave Get Down
Source: Photo courtesy of David ArandaSlide 26 of 32.
Mini Chopper at Grand Ave Get Down
Source: Photo courtesy of David ArandaSlide 27 of 32.
Grand Avenue Get Down
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 28 of 32.
Con Safos C/S
Source: Photo courtesy of NaiChe Sol ChaviraSlide 29 of 32.
El Moises -- Arizona Fine Artist
Source: Photo courtesy of Sam GomezSlide 30 of 32.
El Rudy - Photographer at In The Streets Magazine
Source: Photo courtesy of Sam GomezSlide 31 of 32.
Photographer Sam Gomez
Source: Photo courtesy of Sam GomezSlide 32 of 32.
Bikini Lounge
Source: Photo courtesy of Christian V Otjen

10 best places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo — the 5th of May — means one thing in many cities across the United States and Mexico: fiesta time. Grab an ice-cold margarita at one of these 10 celebrations.

“Celebrate Culture” in Denver

For two days each May, the people of Denver tip their hats to the spirit of freedom and the beauty of Latino culture with their annual Cinco de Mayo festival, entitled “Celebrate Culture,” at Central Civic Park. Family-friendly events include a parade, green chili cook-off, chihuahua races and local and international talent performing on three separate stages.

Puebla, Mexico – Where it all began

On May 5, 1862, Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza and his outnumbered soldiers successfully defended the town of Puebla, Mexico against larger and better equipped French occupying forces. While not the official day of Mexican independence, Cinco de Mayo has become a symbol of Mexican pride and heritage.

….

Phoenix Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo festivities in Phoenix aren’t limited to a single location. Check out the hundreds of booths in downtown’s Patriots Square Park, watch a chihuahua race in Chandler, watch live performances on the stage in Scottsdale or enjoy three days of dancing and festivities in Mesa.

10Best provides its users with original, unbiased, and experiential travel content on top attractions, things to do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

FULL STORY AFFECTING OTHER CITIES ABROAD FOUND HERE>>>

ON EXHIBIT AT 1205 FOR FRIDAY MAY 3RD AND SAT MAY 4TH–BY BAD BOY DESIGNS/MOE MADRID

Grand Avenue is the place to be this Friday and Saturday during the art walk as we enjoy this Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

Join the Grand Avenue Get Down to see Phoenix Custom slammers, Lowriders, Rat Rods and Choppers. There will be live art demonstrations as artists from California, New Mexico, and all your favorite local artists participate in the Grand Avenue Get Down on First Friday and/or Cinco de Mayo weekend!  Enjoy live music, food and art!

BRING YOUR RIDE!

California Artists:  D.A. Garcia, El Chikle, Jowee Mr. Rhythm Ramirez, Lucky Hellcat
Johnathan Mercado, Ricardo Islas

New Mexico Artists: Nani Chacon, Toby Morfin

Arizona Artists: Sam Gomez, Jason Rudolph Pena, El Moises, John Garza, Angelica Johnson, El Podrido, Moe Madrid, El Whyner, Pablo Luna, Albert Rodriguez, Buggs, Leland Chapin, Mike Royal Sage Rock, Ron Hernandez, Luis Miranda and many many more!

LOCATION: 1205 W. Pierce Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007

DATE/TIME:   May 3rd, 2013, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. & May 4th, 2013, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

By DeeDee Garcia Blase

I offer my love to my Creator — Raw and Contrite
Nothing else greater can manifest in my power and might
You help me overcome obstacles nobody else can bring
Power and Love that manifests will never be replaced by a mere mortal soul
The Love You give me is enough to sustain me
Words can never express the debt I owe to you
Will you take my broken heart so humble but free?
Riches will never replace what is everlasting — may my soul you created lives eternally?

The appreciation you’ve placed in my heart embraces culture and diversity
And I’ll never understand the complexity
You’re the Lord of my soul
I offer my tender brokenness thru Rock n Roll 
I hope you’ll remember when He said they not know what they do
The hate and the harm, is there something else that will suffice in lieu?
Is it too late to reverse humanity?
For then we wouldn’t have to see war, death and the ugly darkness brings?

I know there are no wishes for you to see riches
Because you own and Create all at the whisper and tips of your fingers
But please know O’Lord — that I offer my broken soul
I know you want me to submit –
So this moment I offer a simple contrite heart … nobody else can omit

This Declaration explains no happiness that will ever come to me
Without first the blessings You grant to me
I’m forever grateful to my Creator– no mortal man will ever bring me
My love I surrender — Nobody but Thee

The happiness you bring me
Will never be matched thru eternity
My heart how it hurts because it’s all that I have
Even though Hendrix gave his heart to music; I know deep down you gave him lyrics to ever last
I summon the great Love that can only come from You
I’m doing all that I can despite the transgressions I’ve done
But no matter the sin
I love you despite what’s pinning me in

By DeeDee Garcia Blase

God I’m admitting I’m drunk with your love…
No mortal man can give me your hug
This golden fountain you give me
Will never climb the love mountain
The love you bring me is an everlasting fountain
Its spiritual and I finally see
Nobody will ever replace you
No matter the degree

Know that your love is everlasting no matter the broken promises given to me
Despite what I couldn’t foresee
Your love sustains me in every way with the help of Jimi and Beam
Take me to Kentucky — suspended in this Spiritual in-between

My God, How I Love thee
I’m sorry for past sins that I bring
I’ll forever submit this brokenness that I give
I’m really happy — not blue
And what I lay at your feet
Will be set in concrete
The doves that you send me
Mends what many say can never sing

I don’t have a care in this world
The love I live for because it’s something I’ll swim towards
His memory is long and in the past
This golden love you’ve given to me will never surpass and wait the ultimate class act

I’m a gypsy traveling from the north to the east
I’m comforted the friends you’ve entrusted me
Set my paths straight in this long lonely walk
May my prayers be incense every Cigar under the stars
Know I’m forever grateful
The Love and Mercy you constantly bring me will make me accessible

BRING YOUR RIDE!

California Artists:  D.A. Garcia, El Chikle, Jowee Mr. Rhythm Ramirez, Lucky Hellcat
Johnathan Mercado, Ricardo Islas

New Mexico Artists: Nani Chacon, Toby Morfin

Arizona Artists: Sam Gomez, Jason Rudolph Pena, El Moises, John Garza, Angelica Johnson, El Podrido, Moe Madrid, El Whyner, Pablo Luna, Albert Rodriguez, Buggs, Leland Chapin, Mike Royal Sage Rock, Ron Hernandez, Luis Miranda and many many more!

LOCATION: 1205 W. Pierce Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007

DATE/TIME:   May 3rd, 2013, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. & May 4th, 2013, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Hotel Palomar is a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Chicago, and  they are notorious for  bringing “art in motion” to the city’s River North neighborhood. This hotel was designed for this vibrant neighborhood in Chicago’s cultural hub where they are located in the midst of the largest art scene outside of Manhattan.

Fine Artist El Moises Represents Arizona in Chicago, Illinois

Moises is currently working on 3 murals in downtown Phoenix with more art projects developing.  He is known for using a Chicano super vibrant color technique when painting his murals that would give any art enthusiast a feel for the great southwest.

On April 13, 2013, Moises interacted with the public while painting his mural during the Feast on the Street in downtown Phoenix, and we are glad to see our very own Arizona fine artist gain popularity to other parts of our Nation.

Hotel Palomar will not regret their decision with this fine artist.

El Moises paints mural during Fiesta on the Street in downtown Phoenix

El Moises paints mural in downtown Phoenix

El Moises

El Moises

The Japanese magazine that has a lot of street Lifestyle documentation of artists, exquisite photography, style and cultural presence.

El Moises artwork featured in Japan 38 Timez

As a result of Brewer signing that horrendous and draconian law a couple of years ago, we believed in using Arizona as a launch pad to create a Spanish and English CD from artists across the country addressing the need for fixing the broken immigration system.  Indeed we support a legal and humane immigration plan.

We believe in communicating through art and music.  Henry Wadsworth Longfellow once penned: “Music is the universal language of mankind — poetry their universal pastime and delight.”   Our goal is to communicate through music with regard to the humanitarian aspect of immigration.  Mexicans and other immigrants are not asking for a handout – they are seeking earned legal immigration reform.  Chicanos and American citizens are here to push the American Dream, and we know that when our Nation continues to be a Beacon and a light to the Globe – blessings come our way.

The launch of our Tequila CD will take place on April 5, 2012.  We will be having a concert to promote our CD in the heart of where the draconian anti-immigrant law originated.

Date:  Friday, April 5, 2013

Time:  7:00 pm

Location:The Lot -  1005 North Second Street, Phoenix, AZ

For more information contact 480-200-3748

The Tequila CD consists of music created by new emerging Latino artists and poets across the country.  Throughout 2011 & 2012 the National Tequila Party Movement visited universities and cities in an effort to help get out the Latino vote pushing support for pro immigrant politicians.  We hosted tequila party rallies (countering the extremist tea party movement) in states such as Arizona, Nebraska, Kansas, Nevada, Texas, Florida, New York, Indiana, Michigan, and more.  New emerging Latino artists performed at our tequila rallies and created songs with regard to the immigration movement.

A portion of our CD sales will go to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students since they have to approximately $575.00 for documentation fees + attorney fees, and the other portion of our CD sales will go to Mexican-American artists who helped contribute their talents to this important message.